iCLT News: Transformation Versus Business As Usual

In Luke 6:46, Jesus asks, "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord' and do not do what I say?"

It's a common phenomenon even noticed by nonbelievers: Many Christians profess allegiance to Christ but fail to apply his teachings to their lives. We may ask for salvation but resist transformation, acknowledging Jesus as "Lord" but shying away from challenges to our inner selves. We often make exceptions to his commands, like evangelizing "into all the world" (Mark 16:15) except where it's uncomfortable, or loving enemies (Matthew 5:44) except for certain individuals. We selectively interpret passages like Luke 14:33, not embracing the radical nature of Christ's lordship that conflicts with our self-centered inclinations.

It's essential to recognize that God in Christ fundamentally differs from fallen humanity. We couldn't adapt to God's holiness or save ourselves—it's not in our nature. Similarly, conforming to Christ's lordship goes against our inherent tendencies, as his authority challenges the self we've nurtured.

However, Christ's lordship isn't merely an external imposition but an internal transformation. He works within us, albeit uncomfortably, with a power that overcomes and loves. So why don't we obey him? Perhaps we underestimate the depth of change he intends to bring or fail to ask for inner transformation. Maybe we doubt his ability to overcome our stubbornness because we know ourselves too well and him too little.

The core of the gospel lies in understanding, asking, and believing in this transformative change Christ offers.