Let God Speak #42: Not The Jesus You Know

Matthew 10:32, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.

Not the Jesus You Know

            “Woah. That’s a pretty harsh saying, Jesus. I think you should maybe tone it back a little?” Did you think something like that when you read the verse above? There seems to be two common misconceptions of Jesus. He is: 1) A guru of love who accepts anyone, no matter what. 2) A judge of wrath who those who disobey. Which is right?

            Both. We are more sinful than we could possibly imagine. Hate and selfishness are our modus operandi. Jesus would be just to rain sulfur on us all! Yet, we are loved more than we could possibly imagine. Jesus took our every sin and suffered God’s wrath in our place. We now have life in his name. We now have peace before God. Jesus wants everyone to have this peace.

            Jesus isn’t just another option. He is THE way to life. Without Jesus, there is no salvation. It matters in whom we believe. In love, Christians speak up and tell others about Jesus. In love, Christians speak up and warn those who reject Jesus and his Word and walk in the way of darkness. In love, Christians are kind and compassionate, yet firm in their beliefs. This will bring tension, a “sword.” Our motivation is always and only the salvation of souls through Jesus Christ.