I’m sure that you can easily deduce that if Jesus considered certain individuals to be His ‘True’ followers, then obviously there must have been some that gave Him reason to doubt. Perhaps they were unfaithful, uncommitted or even false followers. Let’s pray that God will lead us into the right understanding of what He said to the Jewish followers that day, and that we may always strive to be ‘True’ followers of our Lord and Savior.
Date: Friday, 2021-10-29
By: Ed Algreen
Bible Reference: John 8:31
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)
Bible Text: 31 Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “When you continue to embrace all that I teach, you prove that you are my true followers.
APPLICATION: Jesus made it clear that when we embrace ALL that He taught us, and all that He continues to teach us each day, we are considered His true followers. In ever country represented in my readership, I believe that you could easily acknowledge that there are a multitude of denominations represented in the ‘religious’ communities of each country. This came about primarily because of two reasons: (1) There are differences of opinion about the interpretation of God’s Word; and (2) In every team setting, there are multiple individuals who feel like they could lead better than the current leader, so troubles arise and a split off results, so that leaders could have their way. But, based on the first point, how could followers possibly think that they are willing to follow ALL that God teaches in His Word, when there are so many variances on how these things are interpreted? Among our community of churches there are known differences in things such as: the day selected for worship services; whether divorcees can serve in leadership roles in the church; those with gender uncertainties serving in the church; etc, etc. But how can we honestly say that we (all followers collectively) are following ALL that Jesus teaches? Some believers may be looked on as ‘Christian fanatics’ when we become very stringent in following the teachings of our Lord, because there becomes such a divide between their belief and that of the world. Friends, I would recommend that we closely examine ourselves to see where we stand with Jesus. Would He consider us a ‘True Follower’? To the world, it might seem acceptable based on how often we attend church; or how much we give to the church; or how much we claim that we love Jesus. But remember dear friends, in this old world, we have fallen into easy and quick divorces; not even getting married so that we could up and leave at just any time we want; why children are divorcing parents now, and siblings will go years without ever contacting or seeing a sibling. Are these examples of what we should apply to our relationship with our Lord also? For the one who is serious about following Jesus, and allowing Him to be Lord of their life, we made a 180 degree turn in our lifestyle and in our commitments and in honesty, and in our love for God and for each other. It’s Jesus’ way of life! I believe that Jesus is telling us today that He agreed to follow through with the crucifixion because He loved and respected His father enough to obey ALL of His commands, even if it led to the cross. As followers of this same awesome Savior, why would we decide to do anything short of that same ideal? Are you bold enough to ask Jesus if you are considered a True Follower of His? Perhaps an accountability partner might help you tear down the doors of fake; falsehood; and make-believe, so that you may honestly stand before the King of kings and Lord of lords with one simple song: ‘Just as I Am Without One Plea‘, knowing that in and of ourselves we are nothing worthy of the love of Jesus Christ. But knowing that because of who He is, Jesus will have it no other way, than to love the children for which He died and rose again! Where do you stand today dear one? Have a little talk with Jesus, and make sure that everything is in order – a True Follower of Christ!
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You are my strength when I am weak. When trials come and life itself seems to overwhelm me, I need You more than ever to be my deliverer, my peace and my strength. Lord, living in this sinful world is challenging at best, so it is very easy for us to feel like we are not where we need to be in our walk with You. Thank You Lord for sacrificing Your very life, so that I might have forgiveness of my sin and peace about my future with You. Oh that my readers and I might be in such communion with You each and every day, that our lives will exemplify You in every way. May someone experience Jesus today in conversation with Your children and through our expressions of love in all that we do. AMEN!