This story, though hundreds of years old, has an application for modem times, for there are thousands who come to the Promised Land of blessings, look in for a time, then turn back into the wilderness.
God's judgment upon the people was that because of their lack of faith they would return to the wilderness and wander there forty years. Not one of those who was twenty years old or older would enter into the land, save Joshua and Caleb, who believed in God and who believed His promises.
I. At The Border Of Salvation
A. Many come to the point where they must decide for Christ and heaven; or for Satan and hell.
B. They come to a time of deep conviction, they get a glimpse of the Promised Land.
1. They know the joys others express about their salvation.
2. They know the conviction of God.
3. But on the other side of the line they see the world, and it beckons to them.
4. They are urged by Satan to continue in the wilderness of sin.
5. They stand at the borderline of decision - for or against Christ.
C. Biblical Examples.
1. Felix is an example. Cf Acts 24:22-27
2. Agrippa is also an illustration. Cf Acts 26:24-32 03
3. How many come to the place as (Mark 12:34) "And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.''
4. No matter how near a person may be, they must make the decision to cross over to Jesus by faith.
II. At The Border Of Church Membership
A. Some have already called upon the Lord, but have never united with the Lord's church.
B. God receives glory in the church.
(Eph 3:21) "Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end Amen."
C. The Lord instructed us to let our light shine before men. Cf Mt. 5:15-16
1. How can we do that?
2. He said to put it on a candlestick.
3. Cf Rev. 2:20 candlestick = local church
4. Church membership is important to those who wish to glorify the Lord!
5. Don't stand at the border, cross over and make a commitment to the local church!
6. Jesus was committed to the local church; He died f or it!
7. Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;" cf Ep. 5:25b
III. There Is The Border Of Total Consecration and Obedience.
A. Many Christians come to this borderline.
1. They look over, see the joys and benefits of a consecrated life.
2. But they see that it will cost them something, so they turn away from usefulness to a life of uselessness.
3. Some see a dedicated Christian and in their heart you say, "Oh, I wish I could be like that."
4. But they are not willing to pay the price.
(Gal 2:20) I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. "
B. Paul talks about our reasonable service.
1. 'Reasonable' = commonly accepted
2. Not above and beyond the call of duty.
3. Note Romans 12:1-2
(Rom 12:1-2) "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
4. Oh how we need folks who will not stand at the border of total consecration, but will cross over to do reasonable service'.
C. There are two kinds of people in every church.
1. Those content to just have their name on the roll, and
2. Those who believe they are saved to serve God.
3. Both have come to the border, but only one has stepped over into service.
4. If we fail to serve God, we may be standing in the way of others, keeping others out of the way of devoted service.
5. Our influence is great; it vitally affects someone, friend, co-worker, or family member.