The story is told that The Times of London, at one point early in the 1900s, posed this question to several prominent authors: “What’s wrong with the world today?” The well-known author G.K. Chesterton is said to have responded with a one-sentence essay: “Dear Sir, I am. Yours, G.K. Chesterton”
His words demonstrate that most people lack humility. Most people claim to live by (and think their salvation is wrapped up in) the Golden Rule: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). “If I just treat others how I would want to be treated, God accepts me, right?” In addition, they find it easier to note the sins of others rather than admit that they have made their own foolish, sinful choices.
But Jesus’s words challenge us. He reminds us that the road to God is narrow; that we must avoid all the side roads that lead us away from God. Since it’s easy to be lured away from the straight path by the ways of materialism, pride, and sensual satisfaction, Jesus reminds us that only a few are walking on this road.
Does it mean that “doing” is more important than “believing” and “trusting” in Him? No, it’s that our faith in Christ should lead us to lives of holiness. And in this world, that is hard. Are you prepared to love your overbearing employer with kindness and courtesy? Are you willing to sacrificially meet the needs of your spouse, even if your needs aren’t met? Will you care for the least lovely persons around you without expecting anything in return?
As we begin to approach the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges us to live differently. To put our faith into practice. To walk the narrow road. Will you be one of the few?
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Aaron
His words demonstrate that most people lack humility. Most people claim to live by (and think their salvation is wrapped up in) the Golden Rule: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). “If I just treat others how I would want to be treated, God accepts me, right?” In addition, they find it easier to note the sins of others rather than admit that they have made their own foolish, sinful choices.
But Jesus’s words challenge us. He reminds us that the road to God is narrow; that we must avoid all the side roads that lead us away from God. Since it’s easy to be lured away from the straight path by the ways of materialism, pride, and sensual satisfaction, Jesus reminds us that only a few are walking on this road.
Does it mean that “doing” is more important than “believing” and “trusting” in Him? No, it’s that our faith in Christ should lead us to lives of holiness. And in this world, that is hard. Are you prepared to love your overbearing employer with kindness and courtesy? Are you willing to sacrificially meet the needs of your spouse, even if your needs aren’t met? Will you care for the least lovely persons around you without expecting anything in return?
As we begin to approach the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges us to live differently. To put our faith into practice. To walk the narrow road. Will you be one of the few?
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Aaron
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