It sounds like a paradox, doesn’t it?

If one is a true disciple, surely that’s a lifetime commitment.

In fact, I suspect it really is, the key word being “TRUE!”

But John 6:66 says of our dear Lord, Who deserved better … “From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.”

That particular day Jesus had delivered some HARD teaching, Words that required a discerning mind and heart. Like: “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:54

Words like: “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.” John 6:56-57

Wow!

Even some of Jesus’ true Disciples … “When they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?” John 6:60

There are some still on-the-surface disciples turning away from Jesus! When they encounter certain “hard things!”

Determine in your heart today, that by the Grace of God, you will NOT be one of the deserters!

Jesus even asked the Twelve that day: “Will ye also go away?” The verb “go away” used here is “hupago,” literally meaning “go under!”

Be like Peter, who this time sparkles with faith when he responds: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.” John 6:67

Jesus puts it this way, revealing the divine expectation of genuine discipleship … “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Revelation 2:10

It is serious business, serving the Lord. “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62, not going back, just “looking” back!

In Acts 20:24 a younger Paul determined to “finish his course with joy.” Decades later, he did … “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Wow!

Listen to Jesus too, foremostly … “It is finished!” And He proclaimed that from the Cross of Calvary!

Will YOU be faithful?

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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