Not my Jesus
October 21, 2008
“If anyone desires to come after Me,
let him deny himself,
and take up his cross daily,
and follow me”
-Matthew 10:32
Many people come to Christianity thinking it is going to make their circumstances better… it is going to solve all of their earthly problems, that Jesus will tie them up in a great big polka dotted bow.
Absolutely Not True.
Jesus made it clear that it would be hard. He made it clear in Matthew 10:32 that if you come to Him, you would have to deny yourself, which in and of itself is a hard task. You would have to take up your cross DAILY… not just when you feel like it…and you would have to follow Him.
Even if that means harm to your family. Even if that means defending your faith to your friends. Even if that means not watering down the scriptures to fit your “Ideal Jesus”.
Now there is a case to be made that some Christians today are way too legalistic. That they are all about rules and opinions. That they lack grace and mercy, which are the forefront of the message of Christ.
I agree that Christians today are very legalistic and lack Grace, and Mercy but there is a generation of Christians that are so opposed to the legalistic Christianity that they disregard black/white truth. Legalism has no place in scripture or in church, but sound biblical doctrine absolutely does. We surely do not need watered down Christianity, which is spreading like wild fire in the North American Church. North American church is all about “Warm and Fuzzy Jesus” yet there is more to Him than that.
Biblical truth infused with the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to have grace and mercy, yet we have to be careful not to abandon the absolute infallible Word of God.
When we do that, it allows for the breaking down of our biblical values.
Now here is where I get blunt.
I am so sick and tired of people “creating Jesus” to fit their needs. I am so sick and tired of people claiming to be “for everything” while standing for nothing. I am so sick and tired of people watering down the Black and White truth of Gods word. I am so sick and tired of people portraying my Savior as some “anything goes, do as you want, I understand” type of God.
It slaps Him in the face, every single time.
“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.” - Matt. 10:38
The answer to all of your problems is in the book that He authored..
Jesus Christ isn’t a personal genie—He is Savior. He is so much more than a “warm and fuzzy” Savior. He died an agonizing death to satisfy the wrath of a holy God.
Stop trying to fit Jesus into what you think He should stand for, and open your bible and read about what He does stand for.
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Comments
Note From Heather: All comments are welcome, but I reserve the right to delete at any time. All comments are solely the opinions of the individuals submitting them and the publication of them on this blog does not imply my endorsement or agreement. By posting your comments to the blog you are granting me the right to use them. Your submission of a comment constitutes your acceptance of this comment policy.
In other words: Play Nice
44 Responses to “Not my Jesus”
I would love to hear from you!
Thank you so much for the TRUTH of God’s Word you expressed. May it be a conviction and encouragement to us all.
Cristys last blog post..The Prayers of the Picky
Thank you so much, Heather, for pointing this out. I think many people are dangerously unaware of what is seeping into our own churches, because it is slow and seemingly innocent. We have been members of a mega church for many years, and just recently they have begun dabbling in the emergent church movement. It is stunning to my husband and me that this deception is even blinding some God-fearing pastors.
WOW!!! I love the way you wrote your conviction!!! As I have been teaching the Young Adults’ Class at church, I have been consistently trying to help them see that truth doesn’t change from situation to situation, or age to age, that it remains the same. AND that it is our responsibility to take a firm stand on truth and uphold it in our daily lives.
I may print this post for them to see that I am NOT the only one that is passionate about the Word and Truth.
Theresas last blog post..6 Things
Amen!
Donnas last blog post..URGENT PRAYER REQUEST
Perfect and much needed.
Vickis last blog post..Gingerbread Brownies
Amen!!!!!
rock solid Heather! thanks for being bold and sharing this!
<
Jennifer
Jennifers last blog post..A very touchy subject
I agree with you totally! That is what is wrong with this wrold today, people want to be comfortable and things to fit their lifestyles.
Well, if they would read the scripture and let go and let God. Things wouldn’t be the way they are. He loves us, but do we really love Him and obey His word? We can’t change the biblical truth for our comfort. Being a christian isn’t suppose to be easy, if it was why would we need Him.. Thankfully, I need Him every minute and every hour of my life.
Your an amazing woman, and I am glad to have found your blog.
Very well said! I wish that more people understood this.
Gwendolyns last blog post..
amen, well said. we must always turn to the bible to remind ourselves of who Jesus really is.
Monica @ Paper Bridgess last blog post..Much ado about nothing: thoughts on Twitter
Amen! Preach it Sister!
Amen… one hundred times over.
Ashleigh (Heart and Home)s last blog post..Excuses, Exsmooshes
Well said.
Have you heard about The Truth Project through Focus on the Family? It’s excellent and along these very same lines. You might like it.
Blessings!
Amen, Heather!
This is what’s so scary about the emergent church; they have right motives but are trying to do that apart from the gospel.
Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill has an excellent sermon on line about this.
Mrss last blog post..Ty and Jess
Amen!! Thank you for sharing your heart Heather!!!
~hugs~
Pams last blog post..Happy Sweetest Day!
Now THIS is an awesome message. I heard almost the same message on Way of the Master a couple of days ago and it struck me then as much as it is striking me today. We do not have a “God for Hire” who is there to seek our approval or to please us. We have a God of truth and justice who loves us with real love, not flowery, cartoon love.
Thank you for this beautiful reminder.
What encouragement. Thank you so much for writing this. :)
JoAnn
!!!!Standing Ovation!!!!
Sisterlisas last blog post..Daybook October 20th
That’s My Girl!
But, I sometimes do wonder what a nice, big, comfy, overstuffed, leather, cross would be like, with a real understanding butler.
Just miss’n with you! :)
Dad
Dads last blog post..Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah…….
Amen Heather! Very well said!
Gina Dunns last blog post..Scan Results..
Well said and much needed!! (One question though…do you mean infoulable or infallible? The first means cannot be made dirty; the second means totally right and incapable of being wrong, the complete and whole truth? Just wondering :)
@Anne : Infallible
I agree with what you say, for many of us the time we find “this” out is at a time in our lives that we know we can only get help from Him, that he is the only one that can pull us out of our “desperate” situation.
It was only when I entered a place called “hell’ in my life that I knew I needed to reach for God that only He was able to deliver me from the chains that bound me, no doctor, counsellor not any human being on this planet could help me.
I also know a God who has forgiven me of the many mistakes I made, and how very frail I am and at times needy for things of this world.
I have suffered too much in this life, cried, wailed and then cried and wailed again and again and again.
I have desires, only a few and I wonder if God at times cares about the suffering, the intense suffering where I hold on to Him even when I don’t believe He is there simply because that is all I have got to cling to.
My life has endured so much suffering day in and out for the past 30 years, no longer then that where I would could say there is no God but as soon as I would walk away I would know without a shadow of a doubt that yes, Christ is reall and alive so I can’t leave Him,
I don’t know why I am blasting this out, maybe to show my pain , my intense pain that I don’t get to “voice” I only can cry on my own.
So Gods word is truth and it has been no picnic trusting someone that you cannot see.
So please also say that my God sees my pain and if I want just a few things to comfort me in this life, because I have had none.
Sorry I have to blur it out here but there are many people suffering and looking for “worldly” things at times only because their pain is so great and as much as God is close He can seem far away.
Thank you so much Heather for your inspiring words of truth! So often, I fall into the trap of seeking worldly things and getting caught up in forming Jesus to fit my needs! It’s the exact opposite; we need to form our needs to fit His will! We should want what He wants for us! It reminds me of the lyrics in Toby Mac’s new song, “I don’t wanna gain the whole world and lose my soul!” We need to focus on the truth, because the truth is all that matters! Not my truth, yours or anyone else’s, but God’s truth! If we can focus on that and not alter it in any way, we’ll all be okay! We’ll be better than okay! We’ll be eternally together spending all of our days praising God!
Love to all!
My dearest Heather…I read this yesterday but came back today to ask a special favor of you!
This young lady, Leslie is in surgery right now to remove a brain tumor…she’s already requested a “pink wig”
…Could you please visit her Caring Bridge page & leave a word or prayer:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lesliemiller
I do not know her personally but met her mother in a Yahoo group and through SUM(Spiritually Unequal Marriages). She is a contributor to the site.
I’m in prayer for her and 3 more right now!
Jordan (son of Susan from Forever His) http://susan2956.blogspot.com
going for his scan & 6 month check-up at St. Jude’s today-Saturday
Nick (son of Tammy at My Heart…His Words)
http://tammynischan.blogspot.com/2008/10/heavy-heart-still-filled-with-hope-my.html
Abby (adopted 3 yr. old daughter of the Rigg’s family)
http://www.riggsfamilyblog.com “…where laughter lives”
hospitalized with high fever…she has leukemia
I realize that you probably have a lot of requests from people.
But God just laid you on my heart while I was praying for these 4 since last night. Nick’s is the most severe.
You were the person that inspired me to start blogging in April.
I had written to you back then of how I wrote Oprah about you.
Nothing happened with it but that was probably a good blessing since the direction she has gone and we need to not feed that ego or mindset. My point at that time was to honor you and find a way to publicly pay tribute to Emma and you. God knew the whole plan and kept you from being associated with her. My intent was good.
Please consider at least visiting Leslie, she’s a teen. I think the 2 boys are also. And then there’s little Abby. Please pray.
Peggys last blog post..LOVE~ WORD FILLED WEDNESDAY!
I couldn’t agree more Heather. Let me add to your soapbox - it’s about time people quit calling themselves Christians when they know nothing about christianity! To be a Christian is to be “Christ-like” - to stand for those things that He stood for, to love what He loves and hate what He hates. One can be saved and be pro-choice or pro-sodomy but they cannot be “Christians” because Jesus said both are an abomination to Him. So, not to steal any of your thunder - just wanted to add to it :) Good post!
Karens last blog post..What President Bush Did Wrong
For (too) many years, I honestly believed that receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior was going to keep me from experiencing pain and suffering, even though Scriptural passages such as 2 Timothy 3:12 didn’t quite support my little theory. Eventually, when trial followed trial and sorrow became a habitual visitor in my life, I was tempted to ask “Why?” But the answer from the Lord seemed to be: “Because I love you, and you won’t grow spiritually while you’re on the beach sipping lemonade.”
We have a God who is perfect in wisdom, love, goodness and mercy who desires to conform us to the image of His Son, and that pathway does involve suffering. To think we can accept Christ’s gift of redemption (purchased at enormous cost to Him) and then live our lives in disobedience to (or ignorance of) His Word reveals spiritual immaturity, and as you say, Heather, it’s like slapping Him in the face.
When we realize that there are no accidents in God’s economy, and when we accept the cup of suffering that He allows in our lives, He proves to us that His grace is sufficient for every trial. We become closer to Him while we’re in the valley than when we’re on the mountaintop.
The Word of God is the key to knowing God as He really is and walking with Him in obedience. We should never be taken in by the “prosperity gospel” or be “experience driven” (lured by that which makes us feel good) instead of what the Bible teaches.
Thanks, Heather, for your beautiful reminder of the cost of following Jesus. Your life is a touching testimony of one who has been through the fire and found Him to be completely trustworthy. You inspire us all!
Nice website.I like your reality comment about warm-fuzzy’s.
Please visit and share some of your thoughts also at the http://www.thedailylily.com.
deborahs last blog post..Quote with inspriation
Doesn’t the Lord also tell us that if we follow Him we WILL suffer persecution and death? Not perhaps, but will??
Meek and mild? I don’t think so.
Jens last blog post..Hospital Conversations
Thank you Heather. My mom has a glioblastoma and it’s been a rough couple of months trying to wrap my heart around the truth. Your message is a true blessing! I look forward to each blog you write.
Paula
Watta bing. Watta boom.
Great description & conviction.
k-
Kates last blog post..Today was a First
Spot on! This is a great post, I am going to check out the rest of your blog!
Jennifers last blog post..No yelling in the house!
Oh Heather…well said.
brendas last blog post..Fitness Friday Assignment
I’m really glad you posted this. Just this week I wrote in my journal that God is not my personal genie and I can’t expect Him to appear with a magic wand every time I request something.
I’m really encouraged to know that there are people in America who are standing for truth. Yes, God promises us numerous blessings in His word but He also says that we should count it all joy when we encounter trials.
I enjoy your blog and hope that God will continue to use you for His glory.
This is so good Heather. And is hitting me right in the heart tonight. In a good way. Thank you!
Blessings,
Fran
Frans last blog post..Real life friends now
You go girl!! Preach it!! Your comments remind me of your dad!!
Have you ever traveled outside the United States of America? Have you ever been anywhere beyond the borders of your region of the country? Just curious. Because Jesus is everywhere. Not just in your town, or in North America. God is everywhere there is Love. God is Love, not doctrine.
@Rose : Yes, Rose, I have traveled outside of North America, numerous times. I am having a hard time understanding your question/statement, so correct me if I am wrong. Are you disagreeing with me on this statement: Legalism has no place in scripture or in church, but sound biblical doctrine absolutely does? I agree God is love, but he isnt JUST love. He isnt just warm and fuzzies. He is a jealous God, among other things.
I encourage you, if you haven’t already, to read my cancer story and my daughters story.. I speak from experience, trust me.
“God is Love, not doctrine.”
Over the past 28 years I have known the blessing of being a Child of the Most High God! I have taken serious the admonition to be able to “Rightly divide the Word”, by studying to show myself approved. As a student of the Word I have been privileged to study on both the university and graduate level, at one of the most respected institutions of Religious study in North America.
Here are a few of the Doctrinal topics of study from “Back in the Day”
The Doctrine of God
The Doctrine of Christ
The Doctrine of The Spirit
The Doctrine of Heaven
The Doctrine of Satan
The Doctrine of Angels
The Doctrine of Demons
The Doctrine of Hell
The Doctrine of Sin
The Doctrine of Repentance
The Doctrine of Salvation
The Doctrine of Forgiveness
The Doctrine of Restoration
The Doctrine of Stewardship
The Doctrine of Righteousness
The Doctrine of Mercy
The Doctrine of God’s Judgment
The Doctrine of The Millennium
You see, “Doctrine” is simply the truth of God’s Word, concerning a subject in God’s Word, as revealed by the full counsel of God’s Word.
The Full Counsel of God’s Word Reveals to us:
The Doctrine of Love.
Heather, you are so correct, You can not truly know one apart from the Whole. That knowledge would be incomplete, and flawed.
I love your spirit and passion for God
Very well put, Heather. There have been many changes made during the last 40-some years and they have not been good. The church tries to fit in with the world and they call it being “progressive”. As time goes on and the world becomes darker and more evil, there should be a greater distance between the church and the world. Also, I would think that a true Christian’s light would be shining even brighter. Let’s not hide it… or let it become extinguished by the darkness of the world. Jesus is the Way, the Truth… and the Light.
Oh, dear. I certainly did not mean to stir up emotions. I don’t really disagree with your statement, but I was simply wondering if you had any perspective beyond North America.
Since you say you’ve traveled, then you must know that no matter where Christianity is in the world, the practice differs from one place to another.
Maybe I misunderstood your meaning of doctrine? Maybe, since you referenced warm and fuzzy churches, I assumed you were equating doctrine to style of practice.
I guess I really don’t know that much about either legalism or doctrine. Nor do I really understand much about the generalizations about warm and fuzzy churches, or what would be an acceptable church. And though I do try to Love, I don’t presume I know how, exactly, at least not all the time.
One thing, though, to Truthteller… wow. If only I was as blessed as you, with knowledge and education and eloquence.
Well said, amen. For me after I divorced my husband of 20 years, I prayed for guidance and closure. The best step to that closure was when I sold the diamond engagement ring he gave me to http://www.idonowidont.com and that helped me heal. Now I am going to church more often.
I love this post so much. Thank you for writing it. And thank you for continuing to write, despite any of the negative comments or feedback you get. I know it sounds strange, but your site and your words really mean a lot to me. From, a fellow cancer survivor.
Found my own answer - it’s on there now :)
Karens last blog post..Land of the free BECAUSE of the brave….
Wow, thank you for putting into words how I completely feel about Christianity and the emergent church. YOU totally have the right to post these words more than anyone I know. I am blessed and will save this post and pass it on to others. I don’t post much but am amazed by your words, pray for you often, and truly feel like a kindred spirit as far as thinking very similarly to you. Thanks for being bold and speaking truth. Last week our pastor told us that if we were praying that our kids would have easy, safe and meaningless lives we were truly missing the boat on what it means to die to self and live for Christ. He encouraged us that we would pray that our children’s lives, and ours, above all would have meaning and point others to Christ, no matter what the cost. I remember when you had your brain surgery and we were concerned whether your thinking would be affected by it. Praise God that your mind is absolutely sharp as a tack and spot on! You have a true gift with words and I thank you for being a willing vessel for our Lord and Savior! Blessings to you and your family!
Marthas last blog post..East, West…Home’s best!