There seems to be some controversy about John, "The disciple whom Jesus loves." It's been said there are many people who find it arrogant that John refers to himself in that way; being that all of the disciples were loved by Jesus. While it is true that all of the disciples, as well as all of us, are loved by Jesus, NOT everyone is willing to receive it.
Why do theologians and scholars feel it necessary to take the simplicity of the gospel and make it complicated? Jesus loves everyone but not everyone truly knows it. In fact, many are in denial or suppressing the truth. Relationship with Jesus Christ is personal, but if you're too wrapped up in making sure you "do everything right", you'll miss out on the communion that Jesus died for us to have with the Lord.
Look at Peter; It's no coincidence that he boasted about his love for god; swearing by vow he would never betray him. Peter wanted to be one that loved Jesus the most; he wanted to prove he was able and he wanted Jesus to know it. What happened? Peter denied him three times. Yet STILL the Lord received Him.
To know you are loved by the Lord is to be consciously aware of it. John understood the love of God. He KNEW Jesus chose him and he believed it, he received it, and he personalized it by speaking it. Not everyone chose to do that. They all were loved by Jesus, Jesus died for everyone, but it's a PERSONAL relationship.
To know you are loved by the Lord is to be consciously aware of it. John understood the love of God. He KNEW Jesus chose him and he believed it, he received it, and he personalized it by speaking it. Not everyone chose to do that. They all were loved by Jesus, Jesus died for everyone, but it's a PERSONAL relationship.
Relationship with God is not arrogance, it's personal and sacred. Do you want to know the love of the Father? Do you want to experience the love Christ has towards you? You have the same ability as John had to experience the same love; but you won't be able to receive it if you're caught up in behaving as if God is your task master. How can you be jealous or angry with someone who is walking in the fullness of God's love when you too have the power to have the same thing? You have a choice; be mad and lash out at those who receive, or choose to receive for yourself. That's the only way to know the father's love; receive it.
No comments:
Post a Comment