• it clarifies and burnishes the church’s witness before the nations; • it warns sinners of an even greater judgment to come; • (most importantly) it protects the name and reputation of Jesus Christ on earth. Jesus has attached his name to the church. He has staked his reputation on us. Strange, isn’t it? Now, the whole matter does not finally rest on our shoulders. He has proven through the life of Old Testament Israel that he will do whatever it takes to protect his name. Still, he gives our churches
Page 24