We All Choose The Teams Where We Align Ourselves and Those Choices Have Natural Outcomes

In today's message, we explored the profound implications of aligning ourselves with Jesus and the natural outcomes that follow such a decision. Using a personal anecdote about attending a football game, I illustrated how the teams we choose to support can lead to emotional highs and lows. This analogy extends beyond sports to the choices we make in life, including our political affiliations, friendships, and ultimately, our spiritual alignment. The core question posed was whether we align ourselves with Jesus or with the world, as this decision carries significant consequences.

We delved into John 15, where Jesus warns His followers that the world may hate them because it first hated Him. This is a stark reminder that following Jesus is not always met with acceptance or approval from the world. The world’s values often clash with those of Jesus, leading to potential conflict and opposition. However, Jesus assures us that being hated for His sake places us in good company, as He too faced rejection and persecution.

The message also highlighted the reality of persecution faced by Christians around the world, contrasting it with the relative ease of practicing faith in places with religious freedom. Stories of believers in countries where Christianity is illegal serve as a sobering reminder of the cost of discipleship. These believers are often asked challenging questions about their willingness to sacrifice for their faith, underscoring the seriousness of their commitment.

As we reflect on our own lives, we are called to examine where we stand. Are we truly on Team Jesus, or are we straddling the line, trying to fit in with the world? The challenge is to be willing to stand in opposition to the world if it means following Jesus wholeheartedly. This requires a deep commitment and an understanding that the world’s approval is not the ultimate goal.