Christ as Man: A Study in LukeSample

What does it say?

Jesus sent His apostles to preach and heal. Peter affirmed Jesus as “The Christ of God.” Peter, James, and John witnessed His glory.

What does it mean?

The message of the kingdom of God was of utmost importance, and Jesus’ disciples had to abandon all else to follow Him wholeheartedly. In His encounter with three want-to-be disciples, Jesus clarified the necessary level of commitment. He knew each man’s heart and understood each struggle. Jesus addressed the costs of discipleship: the willingness to sacrifice all one has, to deny oneself of any hindrance, and to persevere without looking back. Following Jesus requires self-denial and total devotion.

How should I respond?

How willing are you to give up everything for the cause of Christ? God may never ask you to do so, but He knows how willing you are to follow Him at any cost. Choosing to live for Him rather than yourself means denying your desires. As you mature spiritually, you desire His will more and more. Once your heart is undivided, He can work through you to accomplish His will. What have you allowed to take priority over your commitment to Christ? Ask the Lord to enable you to fully embrace His lordship. Only by coming to the end of yourself can you truly say, “Not I, but Christ.”