Saints

For several months now, Patrick has been referring to us, the congregation, as saints.  I have finally gotten used to it but when I first remember him using that descriptor, it kinda bothered me.

Saints, at least in my mind, is a label that represents a follower of God that has been charged with special dispensation. I know enough about Catholicism to think that to become a saint, you have to be witnessed performing 3 miracles. To that general description, I would also throw in famous people like Sister Teresa and Nelson Mandela. You know, people who have done something important for God. I certainly don’t consider myself to be part of that group.

Imagine my surprise yesterday when I was doing my quiet time reading.  My reading plan, for this year, has two parts. The first part is reading through the Bible chronologically. The second part is a daily devotion by RC Sproul on going through Romans. I have really enjoyed the painfully slow walk-through Romans and Pastor Sproul has brought up many things I would not have thought of. But back to my devotion yesterday.

Pastor Sproul was going through verse 7 of Chapter 1:

“To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” - Romans 1:7 ESV

As part of the lesson, Pastor Sproul explains that the Greek word used for Saint in the New Testament means sanctified one or one who has been set apart by the Holy Spirit and called inwardly to Christ.  So, if you’ve accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, you have been set apart to be a member of the bride of Christ.

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” - Romans 12:9-13

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints.” - Proverbs 2:6-8

“Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.” - Colossians 1:24-26

“Let your priests be clothed with righteousness, and let your saints shout for joy. For the sake of your servant David, do not turn away the face of your anointed one.” - Psalm 132:9-10

“I appeal to you, brothers, bear with my word of exhortation, for I have written to you briefly. You should know that our brother Timothy has been released, with whom I shall see you if he comes soon. Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those who come from Italy send you greetings. Grace be with all of you.” - Hebrews 13:22-25

You are a saint.