My pastor talks about sin and does not hesitate to tell us that any sin, even the smallest ones will prevent us from entering heaven. Our recent study of the Sermon On the Mount graphically pointed this out. The reason that this is not depressing news is because he always follows it up by reminding us that giving of our lives to Jesus and opening our hearts to God’s Holy Spirit, redeems us of all of those sins by Grace. Jesus is our once and for all sacrificial lamb, cleansing us, thus making us worthy of entering God’s presence in Heaven. Knowing that truth, how could I go away from Church feeling depressed? Rather just the opposit happens. I go away with real joy in my heart.
I suspect that no matter how many times Osteen tells his audience that they are worthy and deserving of God’s love and showering of gifts, they deep down know that they sin and so can’t be really sure about their salvation. Temporary feel good is not at all the same as Blessed Assurance.
“My pastor talks about sin and does not hesitate to tell us that any sin, even the smallest ones will prevent us from entering heaven.”
Thank the Lord for Grace! And Praise his Holy Name!