We have examined, during the last two posts, the benefits of drawing near to God and the effects of drawing near to God. We would be remiss if we neglected to analyze how we draw near to God. Please invariably believe that they draw near to God by simply trying to “feel” God. However, the Bible makes it clear that one must do something to draw near to God.
Most people correctly associate drawing near to God with being a Christian. Yet, when you ask someone if they are a Christian, they always say, “Yes.” However, what kind of Christian? If someone follows the Bible and a Catholic catechism, would they be a “Catholic” Christian? If someone follows the Bible and a Baptist Manual, would they be a “Baptist” Christian? If someone followed the Bible and a Methodist Discipline, would they be a “Methodist” Christian? The simple fact of the matter is, if you do not follow what the Bible says makes you a Christian, you are not a Christian (Acts 11:26). Man’s efforts to “append” the name will not please God.
The Bible says that the steps to salvation include faith (John 1:12; Mark 16:16; Hebrews 11:6), repentance (Luke 13:3, 5; Acts 17:30), confession of Jesus (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:10) and baptism for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21). After someone has become a steward of the grace of God (1 Peter 4:10), they must be found faithful (1 Corinthians 4:2; Revelation 2:10). If they fall back into sin, they are lost (2 Peter 2:20-22). That is how one draws near or calls upon the name of God. If you would like a more detailed study, please contact us.
Kyle Campbell
