It is not only enough, but VERY IMPORTANT for the disciple to BE LIKE the teacher. In wisdom, in faith and above all in Agape Love, we are called to follow Jesus where Jesus went in the living of life in this part of God's Kingdom, and be like Jesus in how we live faith and share wisdom and Agape Love.
When we are identified with Jesus, we unashamedly embrace our identity in Jesus. If we are most concerned about fitting in with others, we will not be able to identify with Jesus. If we want to please others or hold onto some kind of identity apart from Jesus, we are not following Jesus or living like Jesus.
It is a matter of degrees. Our love and devotion are a matter of degrees. The question is - What do we lose by following Jesus? A life apart from Jesus is what we lose. What do we lose when we find a life apart from Jesus? We lose a life a life with Jesus. We are identified with Jesus when we follow Jesus and live the wisdom and love that Jesus taught us. When we do that, we are a part of the body of Christ.
We cannot claim the things that are not of Jesus and follow Jesus.
We cannot live apart from what Jesus taught, commanded and modeled and be disciples of Jesus.
We can claim Jesus' name all we want, but if we do not identify with what Jesus shared as Kingdom of God values, we are not of Jesus.
Doing unloving things, living out of Greed, being obsessed with power, being selfish, self-centered or self-indulgent, arrogant or hateful is not of Jesus.
If we are identified with Jesus, we will reflect Jesus. Our identity with Jesus means that others who identify with us also identify with Jesus, IF we reflect what Jesus taught, commanded and modeled for how to live Agape Love and Grace in this part of God's Kingdom.
How much? How much do you love Jesus? His teachings, commands and examples?
Do you love enough to submit to Jesus in how to live in this part of God's Kingdom?
Do you love Jesus and experience the fullness of your love for others within the context of your love for Jesus?
Do you love Jesus enough to love stranger and enemy?
Love Jesus enough to give generously to those in need?
Love Jesus enough to accept those who are marginalized?
Love Jesus enough to follow Jesus in how you live?
Or are you just claiming the name, but giving your devotion to others or yourself?
To what degree do you love Jesus?
How much do you identify with Jesus?
How well do you follow Jesus in this life, here and now?
I am asking myself the same questions.
Pastor Jamie
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