June 5, 2025
Cost of Discipleship - Part 4
John 16:3
06/05/2025
3 And they will do these things because they have
not known the Father, nor me. (ESV)
The truth of salvation by grace through faith for the sake
of Christ changes how you look at the world. Because you have
received the gift of the forgiveness of your sins from God, even
though you did not deserve or earn that gift, you change how you
think and act. Where you once looked out for yourself before
considering others, now you ask, ``Does this bring glory to God
and serve my neighbor?''
Good works flow from faith. Certainly you can give to
charity or help others even if you do not have faith in Jesus
Christ, but what is your motivation? How many people donate to a
worthy cause, not because they are concerned about helping those
in need, but desire the publicity which comes from giving
donations?
On the other hand, the world simply doesn't know how to
handle people who truly seek the good of others before their own
comfort and reputation. Unfortunately, people who act with
unselfish motivation make society nervous. Jesus was crucified,
not for crimes, but for healing the sick and raising the dead and
bringing comfort to those in distress.
Why are Christians persecuted for their good works, for
their rejection of the selfish ambitions of society? Jesus said,
``And they will do these things because they have not known the
Father, nor me.'' The world knows how to handle the power
hungry, the selfish, and those who look down on the less
fortunate. The world cannot handle the caring, the loving, the
person who seeks the good of his neighbor without thought of
reward or pay-back.
May our Lord grant you peace, even as you live in this
world, but do not live according to the standards of this world.
Amen.