How Many Times Do I have to Tell You?

How many times do I have to tell you? Hebrews 1:1-2 How many channels do you need?

If you are a parent (or if you were someone’s child), then you are probably aware of something many parents say. They ask, “How many times do I have to tell you?” This is followed by, “to do your homework, to clean up your room, to stop teasing your brother or sister, to stop fighting, or (you can put something here too)!

Imagine the Patience of God

Clearly, as a parent or as the recipient of such a question, you are probably thinking “many, many times.” That is only a small fragment or fraction of the total times God has spoken to us. He speaks to us through his creation, through the words recorded in the scriptures and he has spoken to us by his Son.

Hebrews 1:1-2 says, “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.”

So what is the problem? How many channels do you need? Well, our problem certainly isn’t a lack of information. It certainly isn’t a lack of creative wonder that surrounds us. It also isn’t because the truth is hidden. Our problem is simple: prideful rebellion and a foolish desire to be independent from any authority, no matter how grand and loving that authority might be. Do you see the insanity in that wrongful thinking?

Now imagine that billions of people, through hundreds of years have rejected your loving message of grace, mercy, forgiveness, redemption, freedom, adoption, and restoration. Can you begin to imagine what the Father might rightfully do without delay? The amazing thing is that he is patient.

In fact, it isn’t just a “many” thing with God. His desire is for “all.” Sadly, many won’t listen. Will you?

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

How to Identify a Follower of Jesus

They believe his promises. He promised that belief in him would change life from “perishing” to life everlasting. It is because he is a patient Father. “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

Five Minute Friday

This post is part of the weekly Five-Minute Friday link-up.

All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.