Salvation Is the Kickoff Not the Touchdown

If we were honest, most churches have probably failed at reaching the lost in recent years. We tend to sit in our churches and expect the lost to come to us. Still, we do a better job of reaching them than of making disciples. Some Christians have gotten the idea that once a person comes to know the Lord as their Savior, the work is over, they've done all that is required, and nothing else is needed. However, salvation, although of utmost importance, is just the kickoff to a Christian life. It is not the final destination or the touchdown.

As with any good team, new members need training. We multiply by making disciples who can go out and make other disciples. This is the model the apostles used in the early church. How many Christians do you know who do this today? Do you? The pastor and his staff surely can't do it all. We are all commanded to do this in the Great Commission.

So, as football season continues, remember the analogy. No game is won at the kickoff. It takes practice, following the coach's instructions, learning, working with team members, making sacrifices, commitment, dedication, and perseverance. Let's not stop until the end of the game, when Jesus comes for us at the rapture or our life ends. Nothing else is as important.

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