Memorize: Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Matthew 7:16
Devotional Reading: Acts 4:1 – 21
Christianity is not a religion, rather a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It is a way of life. In the book of Acts 11:27 the followers of Jesus Christ were called Christians for the very first time in Antioch not because they demanded to be called so, but because their way of life showed that they were Christians. The title was generated amongst the people when they saw that their lives mirrored Christ, they became carriers of the mark of Christ, they became touch not, their lives could be likened to the life of Christ Jesus’, so they concluded amongst themselves that these are Christians. True believers are carriers of the mark of Christ, just as all those who do not give their lives to Christ will eventually be carriers of the mark of the beast.
Gal :6:17; From henceforth let no man trouble me: for i bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. This mark is called ‘Touch Not’
Mark is used as a symbol of reference, it explains itself clearly, you do not need any interpretation. Do people call you a Christian because they see you go to church on Sundays, or carry a bible, or praying? If these are the only reasons they call you a Christian, then you are far from it.
A believer must be a carrier of the marks of the Lord Jesus, not merely by what you’re wearing or doing, but by your way of life and by the fruits you are producing.
According to Romans 12:9-21, a true believer should exhibit genuine love, hate what is evil and always hold fast to what is good. Believers are not slothful in business, they are fervent in the spirit and serve the Lord wholeheartedly. They have hope, are patient in tribulation, and are generous to the work of God and to those in need.
A true believer in every situation blesses those who hate him, rejoices with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.. A believer does not accumulate wealth for himself alone, but share with others as God blesses him, and a generous giver towards the work of God. In the account of Acts 4:34-37 the disciples gave themselves to hospitality. A true believer doesn’t pretend or keep quiet when he/she sees wrong.
As we therefore, go about our daily activities and businesses, we must endeavour to be carriers of the marks of Christ, once you have that mark, no one can touch you. You are the light of the world, shine light into every dark places and as we begin to manifest these marks, unbelievers will come to our rising and surrender their lives to the Lordship of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
I pray for you today that you will be a carrier of the marks of Christ and become touch not in Jesus name.
Prayer point: Lord Jesus, please put your marks on my body today and make me a touch not in your name.
Key Does: When you carry the marks of Christ, no evil can touch you.
Pastor James Ademuyiwa
Senior Pastor (IHPCT)
