During Jesus’ ministry, His followers grew into “multitudes,” following Him for various ‘good’ reasons. He fed them; he healed them; he performed miracles. And He taught them as no one had before. They followed Him to Samaria, Capernaum and Judea. They climbed a mountain to hear the Sermon on the Mount. They followed Him to the shores of Galilee; then crossed the Sea to be with Him.
But then something happened that changed everything. Referring to Himself as the Lamb of God who would die for their sins and as the bread of life sent down from heaven, He said “I assure you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you.” This statement not only confused but offended His followers: “This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?” And “at this point many withdrew and did not walk with [follow] Him anymore” (John 6:54; 60, 66).
When they thought He would be King, and as long as it was exciting, they followed Him. But when He began speaking of the Cross—and their need to follow Him there— the multitudes stopped short; they were unwilling to go to the Cross. And isn’t it still true today? As you follow Jesus on the highway to holiness, you will pass many who stopped following Him when things got difficult.
This is so timely! Thank you so much. What a challenge for those of us who consider ourselves, "Christians." Do I stop short when walking with Christ is uncomfortable and not suitable to what "I" want? Thanks Greg.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it great that He never gives up on us!
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