94 - Rick – “Jesus left me in the storm. I’m going back to a SAFE western version of Christianity.”
“Tapping Out!
You’re a bigger man than I am Michael. After walking this “faith journey” for 17 years. I’m becoming convinced that Jesus led me into the storm, fell asleep, woke up and walked home....perhaps because of my lack of faith or maybe it was my imagination that led me here.
None-the-less, I’ll go back to a “safe” western version of Christianity- church, Bible study and sin management. No more “listening”... only reading. I was wrong about Him...
Rick”
94 - Rick – “Jesus left me in the storm. I’m going back to a “safe” western version of Christianity.” (12-01-2019)
Beyond “Safe” Christianity: Embracing the True Life in Christ
Are you weary of a faith that feels more like a checklist than a vibrant relationship with Jesus, like Rick in today’s recording? Have you been going through the motions, attending church, reading your Bible, yet feeling a disconnect in your heart? Perhaps you've been tempted to turn back to what feels like "safe Christianity," a version of faith that avoids discomfort and minimizes risk. But Jesus never promised a safe, easy path. In fact, He said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23).
The truth is, there's no such thing as safe Christianity. Following Jesus requires surrender, sacrifice, and a willingness to embrace the narrow path, even when it leads through trials and persecution. "No servant is greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours" (John 15:20). Jesus himself faced opposition and suffering, and we, as His followers, should expect no less.
So, what does it mean to truly follow Christ? It begins with humility, recognizing our own weakness and inability to live the Christian life on our own. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). When we acknowledge our need for God, we open ourselves to His grace and power.
The John 7:17 challenge offers a powerful pathway to transformation. It calls us to immerse ourselves in the words of Jesus, to study His teachings, and to put them into practice. "If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own" (John 7:17). As we align our lives with Christ's words, we experience the reality of His presence and power.
This is not about our own efforts or striving. It's about an exchanged life, Christ living through us. "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). When we surrender to His Lordship, He empowers us to live a life of purpose, joy, and unwavering faith, even in the midst of challenges.
So, if you're feeling discouraged or disillusioned, don't give up on Christ. Give up on yourself. Humble yourself before Him, cry out for His help, and trust in His power to transform your life. Embrace the true life in Christ, a life of surrender, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. It's not a safe path, but it's the only path to true life.
