Slideshow image

A Solid Center

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Jesus Christ is the Bible's central message. The Old Testament looks forward to His coming; the New Testament recounts His coming. Without Christ the Bible is only another book of ancient history--but beyond that it has little relevance. But Christ gives the Bible its value, because before time began God planned to send Him into the world for our salvation (Ephesians 1:4).

But Jesus Christ isn't just the center of the Bible; He is the center of our lives. By believing in Him, John said, we "have life in his name." What does this mean? First, it means eternal life. Without Christ we have no hope of Heaven; as the Bible says, "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23). But when we yield our lives to Christ and trust Him alone for our salvation, we know we will be with Him through all eternity.

But Jesus Christ also gives us life right now--not the artificial, unstable life the world offers, but a life of purpose and peace and joy. Is Christ the center of your life?

From, HOPE for Each Day: Morning & Evening Devotions, by Billy Graham.