Transformed Mind

“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke 13:24) What is Jesus saying here? Are we sure of our salvation? Is not the gift of grace from God free? What must we do to be saved if not simply believe that Jesus is the Christ? It’s all in the text my friends, it’s all in His words. Yes, we are justified through the cross of Christ, but that’s just the beginning. Free does not mean apathy. We do not receive Jesus then rest on his laurels, no, that is what we call cheap grace. The grace of God is oh so costly; it takes what can be summed up in one word, discipleship. This is why Jesus tells us that many will perish and not enter his Kingdom, that many will, “Knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’” but he will answer saying to them, “I do not know where you come from…Depart from me, all you workers of evil.” (Luke 13:25, 27). No, we must not simply seek Jesus, but strive ! It takes a lifetim...

As Christians we are called to continually and progressively strive to become more like Jesus in word, thought, and deed. [1] In a way then, discipleship is similar to the process of sanctification in that the goal is to become more holy and righteous until the final state of glorification. Both, I might add, require relationship, the former with God and the latter with fellow believers. Relationship within the context of discipleship is not merely a superficial one; rather, it requires complete dedication. In fact, Jesus asked that his disciples deny themselves and bear their own cross (Luke 14:27). This means that a disciple must embrace the will of God in spite of personal comforts or wants and despite the suffering, just as Jesus did. He also asks that we hate our family (v. 26). This implies a love so great for Him that love for family pales in comparison to the point of looking like hate. In all of these requirements then, the disciple must...