“Following Christ is the most disruptive decision you can ever make.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 16, 2024
Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Mark 13:12-13, NIV
When we read the words of Mark 13, no one can accuse Jesus of creating unrealistic expectations for his followers! “Brother will betray brother,” “children will rebel against their parents,” and, lest it wasn’t already clear, “Everyone will hate you because of me.” I’ve attended and visited countless churches in my lifetime. Yet, I’ve never heard this verse mentioned in a newcomer’s class or seen it artistically rendered on the walls as you enter the lobby. However, here it is, plain as day: following Christ is the most disruptive decision you can ever make.
If you’re happy with things as they are, I implore you not to pursue a life of discipleship to Christ, for genuine discipleship demands transformation of every aspect of your life, and nothing is off limits. As Jesus says, it may touch even your most intimate and sacred relationships, bringing division between siblings and parents and their children. And though we don’t seek out hatred or persecution from the world, it shouldn’t come as a surprise if true discipleship puts us deeply at odds with those around us, even living as recipients of their hatred.
Jesus isn’t celebrating this level of division, and neither should we. It is a tragedy that should be mourned, yet our Lord is painting a picture of reality, revealing the depths of brokenness and confusion that exist within our world. When everyone is drunk on power, vanity, and self-love, it’s easy to see a sober person as an oddity or even a threat. Yet remember this truth: Jesus reveals to us life as it was intended to be lived.
To live out of step with this world is to live in step with the Spirit. And as painful and difficult as it may be, we are able to stand firm to the very end with joy in our hearts, clinging to the hope we have in Christ. So today, do not be surprised by the disruptive nature of discipleship, but instead, see it as a disruption that is setting you free from the brokenness of our world and preparing you for the life that is to come.
Prayer
Father, set our hearts fully on your coming kingdom, that we may navigate this world with hope and steadfast faith, we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Application
Reflect today on ways that the disruption of discipleship has been for your own good and has drawn you closer to Christ.
Related Reading
1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 6:11; Philippians 1:27
Worship Resource
Cody Carnes: Firm Foundation (He Won’t)
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