Mark 8:27-38
The courtroom was packed, and everyone waited for the outcome. The audience absorbed the information of the crimes committed as the prosecutor presented his case. The accused man looked unconcerned and even seemed to fidget about as he sat next to his lawyer. The prosecutor finished the volume of charges against the defendant and sat down. At that point the accused man jumped up and blurted out, “I did it completely different, in fact let me tell you what happened.” We normally think of a confession in a criminal sense where the guilty party confesses committing certain crimes. However, a confession admits wrong or a confession admits beliefs. Either way a confession is based on truth. In Mark 8:29-30 Peter responds to the question Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter’s response is one of certainty, confidence, and clarity that Jesus is the Savior. But, the greatest moment for Peter understanding and declaring who Jesus is followed by the downfall of not wanting Jesus to go through with the divine plan of salvation (31-32). Peter wanted a Savior without the cross. Jesus corrects Peter and then presents a challenge to His audience (34) that involves personal loss and commitment. Jesus levels the challenge that anyone who wants to be known as His follower must not only believe, but also submit and serve His desires and plans as King. In hearing these words it is easy to miss what Jesus taught. We think we have to give up something to follow Jesus when He has already given us everything if we believe in Him as Savior. Our problem is that we just do not comprehend all that we have in Christ. If a trial was held today would there be enough evidence to convict you of your belief in Jesus Christ and your commitment to Him? Would you admit to it?
For more see MARK or DISCIPLESHIP
The courtroom was packed, and everyone waited for the outcome. The audience absorbed the information of the crimes committed as the prosecutor presented his case. The accused man looked unconcerned and even seemed to fidget about as he sat next to his lawyer. The prosecutor finished the volume of charges against the defendant and sat down. At that point the accused man jumped up and blurted out, “I did it completely different, in fact let me tell you what happened.” We normally think of a confession in a criminal sense where the guilty party confesses committing certain crimes. However, a confession admits wrong or a confession admits beliefs. Either way a confession is based on truth. In Mark 8:29-30 Peter responds to the question Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter’s response is one of certainty, confidence, and clarity that Jesus is the Savior. But, the greatest moment for Peter understanding and declaring who Jesus is followed by the downfall of not wanting Jesus to go through with the divine plan of salvation (31-32). Peter wanted a Savior without the cross. Jesus corrects Peter and then presents a challenge to His audience (34) that involves personal loss and commitment. Jesus levels the challenge that anyone who wants to be known as His follower must not only believe, but also submit and serve His desires and plans as King. In hearing these words it is easy to miss what Jesus taught. We think we have to give up something to follow Jesus when He has already given us everything if we believe in Him as Savior. Our problem is that we just do not comprehend all that we have in Christ. If a trial was held today would there be enough evidence to convict you of your belief in Jesus Christ and your commitment to Him? Would you admit to it?
For more see MARK or DISCIPLESHIP
RSS Feed