Jesus is not a freethinker, who advocates multiple
sexual partners, broad mindedness, and if it does not hurt anyone else, go ahead and
do it. Jesus’ words will give you a much different view of who He really is. He
equates lust with adultery and hatred with murder (Matthew
5:27-28). He tells us that pursuing His Kingdom is more important
than our family (Matthew 19:29). He did not come to bring peace,
but a sword (Matthew 10:34). He promised that following Him
would separate parents and children (Matthew 10:35).
Jesus said that no one goes to heaven except by believing in Him (John 14:6). He denounced divorce (Mark 10:1-12). He says that the person who changes his/her mind from following after Him is not worthy of heaven (Luke 9:62). He cleansed the temple with a whip (Mark 11:15-19). The Gospels are full of accounts of the real Jesus. If you care to take the time to read them, you will see that Jesus drew a line in the sand and pronounced that anyone who does not come over to His side is condemned already (John 3:18).
Many people believe in God, but not in Jesus whom He sent (John
3:34). They think Jesus is a “cool dude”, but they ridicule true Christians
for following the teachings of Christ according to His Word, rather than according
to the humanistic interpretation they put on His Word. The sad state of affairs
in the world today is that too many so-called Christians live according to
their own agenda and in chasing satanic pursuits in the world and of the flesh,
than in living for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ (John
10:10). They give authentic Christians a negative reputation.
The Bible shows that Jesus constantly confronted
humanistic, self-serving, unholy practices in both the religious leaders and
the Jewish people (Matthew 12:34). He was not some peace-loving
hippie that went around preaching free love! He taught about love in His
parables and He showed us His love by His death. He brought us peace and hope
through His resurrection. He said that every work of our flesh would burn up
under His scrutiny. However, as we follow the leading of God’s Spirit we do
good works that will withstand the fires of judgment (Ephesians
2:8-10).
Prayer:
Father God, You are not pleased with our sacrifices, but
only by a humble spirit and a repentant heart. Help us to renounce our
self-centeredness and to humbly submit to the guidance of Your Holy Spirit.
Without faith in Your faithfulness, we cannot please You (Hebrews
11:6). You created each one of us for Your purpose (Ephesians
2:10). You have a perfect plan for each life that is conceived. Help those
who do not believe to come to know Jesus for who He really is (John
3:16-18).
Thought for the Day:
As God works in and through us, He accomplishes
His will for our life and for everyone we touch.
