One preacher who has fallen into multiple sins, including adultery and covetousness, justified publicly that all is well with him. The reason for his justification was his success. The crowd that heard the gospel, the miracles that happened, and the number of followers in his YouTube channel and other social media platforms. For him, his sins could be washed away by popularity, accomplishments, achievements, and results.
Solomon’s accomplishment: The greatest accomplishment of Solomon was the building of the Temple in Jerusalem. (I Kings 6:1) It was a spiritual, political, social, religious, and cultural achievement. Sadly, as Solomon got older, some of his wives from other nations led him away from the Lord. His name does not appear in the Faith Hall of Fame in the letter to Hebrews. (Hebrews 11)
Absalom’s popularity: The rebel son of David was popular among the Nation of Israel. (II Samuel 14:25-26) He was the Mr. World of his era. With hugs and kisses, he seduced the people to become his followers. (II Samuel 15: 5-6) So, he dared to conspire a coup, and David had to flee from his national capital of Jerusalem. He was defeated in the war and died a miserable death.
Achievements: In the Last days, people will cry unto the Lord, stating that they have healed people, cast out demons, prophesied, and done mighty works in His name. But the Lord will reply: “I never knew you, depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.” (Matthew 7: 21-23) Achievements and accomplishments cannot earn a place in heaven for any man or woman.
Results of obedience? Saul claimed that he obeyed God and completed the God-given mission. He claimed that he had devoted the Amalekites to destruction and took captive Agag the king, also. However, Samuel pointed out that Saul had not destroyed the sheep. Saul gave an excuse that they were for sacrifices. God esteems obedience over sacrifice, and Saul was rejected from kingship. (I Samuel 15: 20-23) There was an apparent success in the war, but a spiritual defeat for King Saul.
Am I cleansed by the Blood of Jesus Christ?