The First Mile

  The religion of Christ has been correctly called "the second mile religion." It leads us to do more than just what we feel we must, but all that we can in living a righteous life and doing good to others. But before anyone can concentrate on the second mile he must travel the first mile. That involves obeying the gospel through faith, repentance, confession of Christ and baptism for the remission of sins. Before then even the good we do is still "chopping corn for the devil" rather than working in the Master's vineyard.

  Tragically some seem to think they can serve God acceptably by-passing His commands to enter into Christ. Even while denying it, the seem to think they shall be saved by their good works without obedience to the gospel. We glorify God "in the church" (Eph. 3 21). We cannot dismiss the entrance terms of the gospel and please Him.