Monday, September 28, 2026

Scripture

“The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom.” Matthew 21:43b

Reflections

Does God care if you call yourself a Christian?

There are a lot of people who take great pride in calling themselves a Christian.  They may talk about how great Christianity is, while at the same time speaking hatefully about others.  They may have a bold Christian fish bumper sticker on their car, and then cut off people on the road.  They may aspire to be nice.  But, when it comes to speaking the truth to someone who needs to hear the truth, they choose the path of avoidance.

The people of Israel considered themselves a part of God’s “elect”.  They saw themselves as set apart and special.  They took great pride in it.  But when it came to following in God’s ways, they preferred to go their own way.

A label does not make a follower of Jesus Christ.  God is not as concerned about labels as much as whether we truly love him and seek to live in his ways.

The ways of God are laid out for us within the scriptures; the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Jesus.  When we follow in those ways, we are living as God’s people.  Labels are just labels.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the way of Jesus.  Help me to be more concerned about following you than the status of being considered a Christian.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Matthew 21:33-46