Discipled Differently

Throughout history we’ve seen people who identify as Christians rallying together around their common hate towards a specific group of people. We’ve seen Christians define “other” groups of people in order to create division. We’ve routinely seen an “us” versus “them” mentality with Christians versus non-Christians. Christians have identified more with what they don’t do, who they aren’t, what they disagree with, or what group they aren’t a part of. They’ve been known more for what they are against than what they are for. This isn’t all Christians, but historically, we can point to cases where this is clearly displayed.  It is in our fallen, sinful nature that causes us to default to this kind of behavior. Rather than identifying with Christ, who he is, and who he made us to be, our identity becomes more about the world around us. We may believe that rallying around common hate towards an opinion, ideology, people group, or belief would bring unity, but hate can never bring unity. Christ is the only one who can bring true unity. While the enemy would try everything in his power to divide us, Christ unites us under one identity in him. He gifted us this new identity through his death on the cross on behalf of our brokenness. Now, the only way to achieve the unity that he calls us to is to give that same kind of sacrificial love to others. The minute we look at other groups of people with disgust is the minute we have forgotten how Christ could have done the same with us. We cannot comprehend the measure in which we have been forgiven. When we do start to comprehend, we will love sacrificially and welcome all kinds of people into unity under Christ. Reflection/Discussion Question: What groups of people or beliefs do you tend to take on an “us” versus “them” mentality?

According to our world, power and position are the only tools needed to bring about change, but Jesus flipped this idea on its head. The Jews thought the Messiah would come in power and position to destroy Rome in order to pass the power and position to the Jews. But this idea came crashing down when the position Jesus took was to hang on a cross. No one understood when the Son of God gave up his power in exchange for death. Jesus proved that the way to lasting change is through humility and that power is found in radical compassion. Jesus had every reason to boast, yet he took the place of humility. He had the power to strike down every guilty person who held him on trial, yet he took the guilty verdict to the point of death. His compassion and love for his people held him on that cross until God’s will was complete. If we are to take the way of the cross as we give our lives to God’s Kingdom, we will not seek power and position, but humility and compassion. It is shocking when great change takes place without power and position. The world doesn’t expect it and doesn’t understand it. As we pursue more wealth, recognition, status, and authority in order to make finite changes, God is calling us to invest in a humble and compassionate Kingdom that lasts forever. He loves to call us with our sad little resumes of what we think qualifies us to do his work and instead, equip us with what we really need to do his work. Reflection/Discussion Question: Are you pursuing power and position, or humility and compassion when it comes to doing God’s work?

I had to humble myself to ask for forgiveness from family for my attitude towards controversial issues.

Couple days ago I shared a burden regarding a root of bitterness hardening my heart toward my husband. I humbled myself and admitted I needed prayer to overcome it. I wasn’t even wanting to pray for him anymore I was so hurt. Last night while studying & praying the Lord showed me II Corinthians 5:18-20. As believers we are ambassadors of the ministry of reconciliation. This morning my husband was leaving for work and felt lightheaded. He has high blood pressure, heart issues & *not saved*. I told him to sit down and I’d pray. I felt led to apologize to him for my part in our marriage issues. Then I started praying and let it pour out of my spirit. Praying for his healing, comfort and SALVATION. He began to weep and I knew he felt the presence of the Holy Spirit. I continued praying silently, Holy Spirit help him, I heard him cry out for help, forgiveness and our marriage. My husband *gave his life to Jesus this morning*! Please pray for him. Forgiveness is powerful! Don’t let the enemy discourage you! Pray without ceasing.