An agnostic professor tells his students that as an 8-year-old child he used to give a Christian testimony that moved people to tears of joy. Now, however, he has rejected his former belief in Jesus. His influence has led many young men and women to renounce the faith they once professed.

Why does this happen? Part of the answer is in Matthew 21. In Jesus' parable, a father asked his two sons to go and work in his field. One said he would but didn't. Jesus directed this to the religious leaders who gave the appearance of saying yes to God, but their hearts were far from Him.

Some who grow up in Christian homes may say yes to Jesus without truly understanding what they are doing. Later when their faith is challenged, they turn away from the faith to which they had given lip-service. In contrast, others may initially say no to Christ because they realize that to repent and believe means their lives will belong to the Lord, and they don't like the demands of following Christ. But eventually they do repent and believe and obey.

Putting your faith in Jesus is life's most important decision. Make sure, therefore, of your own allegiance to Him. Be careful also to instruct others so they understand that saving faith must be a life-changing reality in their hearts.  — Herbert Vander Lugt