In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage. Phillipians 2:5-6 NIV
Does Jesus ever make it difficult to follow him? One could argue vehemently – that he does NOT.
Many times, Jesus corrects those who try to complicate our relationship with him. We, of course, cannot be him, but we can try to emulate him by following his commands.
He says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.” John 15:10 NIV
What are his commands?
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 NIV
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Matt. 22:37 NIV
This was spoken in response to the many religious leaders of the time, making many stipulations and rules for salvation. Are these commands hard to understand? Again, one could argue vehemently- NO.
He says ” I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the father except through me” John 14:6 NIV
He is the truth, the truth is the word of God, so Jesus is the word of God!
Paul said, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 NIV Again, an easy way to salvation!
In the upper room, before the resurrected Christ, a doubting Thomas acknowledges in five words, what we all must acknowledge. Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” These five words we need to remember today.
A final command, he says “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34-35 NIV
Encourage one another today, and continue to praise our Lord and Our God Christ Jesus!
Barnabas
Special thanks for this guest submission by Barnabas.