DAD'S RAMBLINGS -- THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION

DAD'S RAMBLINGS – THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION

"But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner." (Hebrews 6:9)

When I think of accompaniment, I think of a musician who performs on his instrument of choice, whether it is choral music, a violin or clarinet, or a musical saw. The focus is the main performer, whether as a soloist or as a group. The star may be able to stand alone and perform, but often there is an accompanying instrument, such as a piano or an orchestra. The focus of the audience is on the main performer. The accompanist may be a very good musician in his own right, but he is not the star. He only enhances the performance of the main attraction.

Our salvation from sin and from the wrath of God on sin is the most important part of the Gospel. It is the main attraction. We are good at putting emphasis on a lot of other things that have nothing to do with our salvation, such as having beautiful sanctuaries, good music programs, good publicity, comfortable seating and air conditioning, social outlets for fellowship, and a host of other things. None of these are bad, but they are not the main thing.

When we get down to the bare basics, eternal salvation stands alone. It does not depend on any of the other things we might think are important. They only beautify, accompany, or go along with, salvation and enhance it.

So what are some things that accompany salvation – that are included in the package but are not the main things? Holy living is one. It enhances the Gospel. It makes the message of the Gospel more attractive. The fruit of the spirit – love, joy, peace and the rest of the fruit – should accompany salvation. A spirit of praise and worship are beautiful accompaniments. The list could go on and on --- a spirit of kindness, humility, forgiveness, compassion and gentleness – these all support and enhance the beauty of the Gospel of Christ. They are not the main attraction – salvation – but they certainly add to the work of salvation.

Although things that accompany salvation are not the main attractions and salvation can stand alone in its preeminence, still these accompaniments compliment the song of salvation. Let the main thing be the main thing and let everything else be the accompaniment.

Love, Dad