Wisdom from a country preacher series
– Matt. 16:21-28
The cross is an eternal symbol of an unadjusted personality in an evil world.
Daniel wouldn’t adjust to an evil world. John the Baptist wouldn’t, Paul wouldn’t and Jesus wouldn’t.
An Indian Chief sent four young braves up a mountain to test their strength. They were to bring back something to prove how high they got. The first brought back a spruce branch, the second brought a twig from a pine, the third brought an alpine shrub. And the fourth came back exhausted, feet bruised and cut, carrying nothing. He said, “I saw the sea!”
How we need people to see the sea! To see that holy, uncompromising life full of grace and truth. When you know the truth, the truth will set you free. Free from the evils we deplore, set free to be all God intends you to be.
But it involves the certainty of a cross, believing the Jesus is the Christ and has the words to eternal life.
What is the sea? What is it Jesus went to the cross for us to see? By getting acquainted with Jesus we understand a new concept of God.
In the Gospel of John, he says, “God is love.” Love gives itself for others. Jesus is saying in verses 24-26 of Matthew 16, “I love you, I must go to Jerusalem and die for you.”
Jesus was certain of the cross. But he knew by his death on the cross, not for his sins but ours, we could have the Holy Spirit to melt our hard hearts so that we could love one another as God loves us.
How long has it been since you said or heard, “I am sorry.” “I am wrong.” “You are right.” “I love you.” ” I forgive you.” Let the Holy Spirit melt your heart, so you can say these words.
The certainty of the cross. Jesus’ death on the cross was for everyone.
Faithpondering 