Would you believe that a doctor has a cure for the greatest illness known to mankind, but he refuses to share it? He came upon this cure after much research, study, and cost. A number of other doctors even helped him to understand some point on chemistry, biology, and various topics. Once he found the cure, he took it himself to made sure it worked. Then he gave it to a few closest friends and some family members, but that was about all. Why? Well, it does cost each person something so he figures that people always complain about the cost of medicine, so why bother to tell them? Then some people are uneasy with any kind of medicine and he figures they would not take it anyway. Others may be offended because it would imply that they need the cure and he does not want to offend anyone. But, mostly it is because the doctor is just waiting for people to come to him and ask for the cure. His rationale is easy to understand. Most people know about doctors and they occasionally go to one when they are sick. He has a doctor’s office with a sign telling people who he is and his office hours, so if they want the cure they should come to him. Until then, he will just wait.

Unfortunately, everyday people are dying who could use the cure, but he is now complacent, and wonders why his business has not increased.

All of us realize the above is just an illustration or story. It a doctor actually had a cure for mankind’s greatest illness he would publicize it. Drug companies would rush to develop the drug and other doctors would start prescribing it. It would not stop there. Some people would probably be skeptical and refuse to go to the doctor or take the medicine. Those who are cured would go out and talk to others about this great cure. Eventually, many would go to the doctor.

Jesus came as the great physician. Man’s greatest illness is sin, figuratively speaking. Sin is what every person has in common, Romans 6.23a, and results in spiritual death, Romans 3.23. Only through the blood of Christ can we receive redemption, Ephesians 1.7. But are we taking the gospel to those around us or do we wait for them to come to us? We wonder why we are not growing! I realize we cannot make the increase, that comes from God, 1 Corinthians 3.7, but are we serious about doing our part?