"And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord." (Acts 11:21-23)

Patients who undergo organ transplants are routinely taken to the intensive care unit after surgery. There they are classified as being in critical, but stable, condition, even if the operation went well. The doctors and nurses keep a constant watch over them until they become strong enough to be transferred to a less intensive state of care.

New believers in Christ have undergone a serious organ transplant: they have received new hearts. They need careful follow-up and nurture if they are to make it. Leading people to a new life in Christ is a cause for celebration. But let's remember they are in critical, but stable, condition. (From Illustrations for Preaching & Teaching, p. 154)