The Great ExchangeSample

Matthew 10:8 (NET)

“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.”

Jesus died for each and every one of us. And for those who choose to believe, He offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life. But the wonderful thing is that this transformation—this new life in Christ—is not meant to be kept a secret. It is a light that must shine for others to see because good news is meant to be shared.

Jesus has called all of us to take part in his mission. As he says in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), we are to “go and make disciples of all nations.” We are not just receivers of his grace; we are carriers of his message. We are called to “let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

Our goal is not to save people—that is God’s work. Our role is to be great representatives of Jesus so that others see our lives and desire to experience the same transformation we’ve experienced. It’s not just about the life we live, but about the deep, personal relationship we have with Jesus. We are here to plant seeds—seeds of love, seeds of the gospel—and it is up to God to make them grow. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:6, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”

This is not just a command—it’s a co-mission with Jesus. We have partnered with him, not only to receive his salvation but also to share it. The freedom we now walk in, the forgiveness we have received, and the power to overcome sin—these are gifts that must be passed on.

As we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, let this truth sink in: Christ died, and there is a wonderful life in store for those who choose to follow him. But following him is not just about receiving the benefits of salvation—it is about stepping into the mission. It is about seeing sinners set free, lives transformed, and the kingdom of God grow.

As the great evangelist Reinhard Bonnke once said, "Plunder hell and populate heaven." That is the call each one of us is meant to step into. Today, take a moment to reflect—who in your life needs to hear the good news? You have freely received. Now, go and freely give.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation. Help me to live in a way that reflects your love and truth. Give me the boldness to share the good news with those around me, not in my own strength, but through the power of your Spirit. Amen.