How often have you heard someone say Christians will be more likable if we act like Jesus?
They say this because they don't have a clue who Jesus really is.
The real Jesus hates sin because it damages our souls, and He focused on sin during His earthly ministry because sin is what separates us from God (Matthew 5:20-48; Mark 7:20-23; John 8:34-36; Romans 3:23-24; John 3:16).
Jesus tells us that it's loving to rebuke sin:
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent” (Revelation 3:19).
He commands us to confront sinning believers (Luke 17:3), and He commands us to share all of His teachings (including obedience to His commands) with the unsaved world (Matthew 28:18-20).
He also tells us how this will affect our popularity:
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:18-19).
The world hated Jesus because He talked about sin and repentance, necessary elements of the gospel (John 7:7). When we act like Jesus, we can expect the same (John 15).
So next time someone tells you that Christians will be more popular if we act like Jesus, tell them about the real, incredible, wonderful, life-saving, unpopular Jesus!
For additional insights, see Righteousness Has Never Been Popular and "Thank You that I'm Not Like Other People."
To find out more about the devotional Wisdom for Life, click the image below:
Bible Love Notes
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