SALVATION

“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.”—Acts 4:12 NASB

John Witherspoon was a scholar, educator, and pastor. But in all things, he was known as a man of integrity. Born in Scotland, he received a doctorate degree before immigrating to America. Because of his reputation, he was recruited to be the sixth president of the College of New Jersey (later Princeton University).

Witherspoon gained respect throughout his new homeland with many widely read essays. He supported American independence and was the only clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1776, he was elected to the Continental Congress, remaining in Congress throughout the war.

A tireless advocate for religious freedoms, he influenced many people, including James Madison, America’s fourth president. Many ideas Madison wrote as part of the Federalist Papers aided in the ratification of the US Constitution and were based on what he learned from Witherspoon.

Witherspoon passionately believed in biblical Christianity. He believed there was salvation in no one but Jesus. He warned of the consequences of life without Him: “If you are not clothed with the spotless robe of His righteousness, you must forever perish.”

Many think it is foolish to believe the Bible. But it was true for John Witherspoon and still is. As Witherspoon knew, there still is salvation in none other than Jesus. Renew your faith in Him. Stand on the truths in the Bible. Make your faith your foundation.

Reflection Question: Reflect on truths you’ve been learning lately from the Bible.

PERFECT ANSWERS

“It is the name of Jesus which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect health in the presence of you all.”—Acts 3:16 NASB

When God intervened in the life of this lame man, he did not become a little better. He was given “perfect health,” even though he “had been lame from birth” (v. 2).

Here was a man who had some hope, but only limited expectations. As he saw Peter and John going into the temple, he just asked them for money (v. 3). He hoped for a little money, but never considered that he could be healed and made whole.

But Peter and John were not limited. Filled with faith, they knew God could do all things. He could perform astonishing miracles, no matter what the need. Peter’s command was simple and direct: “In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, walk!” The results were immediate. “Leaping up, he stood and began to walk … walking and praising God” (vs. 6–8).

Sometimes when thinking about our problems, we can limit God. We can forget His power. But the Bible reminds us that He has no limits. He can do amazing things, just like He did in the life of that lame man. He is the God who can provide “perfect health,” miracles, and wonders.

Don’t limit God, but seek His perfect answers for you. Remember that He is “able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). Have the faith to pray with bold anticipation.

Reflection Question: How have you been limiting God in your mind?