Living the Faith

My notes state that this question could have been prompted by a number of factors. The great number that had once followed Jesus was shrinking down to a faithful few. Large crowds still came to hear Jesus but committed followers were getting scarce. Plus, Jesus’ messages seemed designed to discourage the half-hearted.

 

I can just see Jesus calling His followers to a higher standard of commitment. He had plenty of people who would gather to hear His thoughts and teachings but Jesus was looking for people who would not only hear but also live their lives by the truths He taught. Being around Jesus wasn’t going to get you through the gate, surrounding yourself with Jesus followers wasn’t getting you in, even hearing His teaching was going to do the trick. Jesus was calling people to a life of faith, obedience and distinction. As a result, the crowd got smaller and people began to wonder why.

 

Why is it that being called to a higher level of commitment sometimes scares people away? Is it a fear of what may be lost? Is it a fear of what others will think? I get so caught up in the questions at times when Jesus is simply saying, “follow me.”

 

It is so easy for me to get truth from a Bible study or be challenged by a message from Chip and yet not have life-change that follows. Hearing isn’t enough. Hearing doesn’t lead to life-change. Hearing doesn’t show God’s awesome power. BUT living out His truths in a dark world changes things.

 

Jesus, help my life become more and more moldable to the things of You. I desire to let Your word transform me each time I encounter fresh truths from You. I want to be one that follows You and enters through the narrow door.