It’s easy to understand the point of Jesus’s life and teaching.
He spoke to us, His words were recorded, and in scripture, His teaching has been faithfully preserved.
Jesus’s teaching wasn’t complicated. We (his followers) muddy up His words. It’s called obfuscation – discussion with the purpose of re-directing or softening the command. Though His teaching is easy, we figure ways to justify inaction.
Don’t obfuscate the following commands:
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:19 ESV
Churches and Christians are asking, “What should we do after COVID?” Easy: Go and make disciples of all nations.
‘…love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these. Mark 12:30-31 ESV
Jesus says, “Love God, others, and self.” Christianity is relationship not religion. Any thought or action based in anger or bitterness is not of God. Serving, justice, forgiving, confessing, and considering others first – always of God.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33 ESV
To receive “all these things” just seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Memorize this verse and say in the morning, “God, help me to seek first Your Kingdom and Your holiness today.”
After Jesus finished the Sermon on the Mount, those listening said, “He is teaching with authority and not as our teachers.”
Jesus taught simply.
The Pharisees debated every aspect of the law. Jesus said “go,” “love,” and “seek first.” The teachers of His day would change “go” to “Let’s get a committee, make plans, and get it out on Facebook.” They would consider “love” and define it to some sort of “accept all” or “get mad at all” politics. “Seek” would turn from action to endless discussion.
Those living in the time of Jesus loved his teaching.
Jesus also said – sell all that you have, don’t worry, give and it will be given to you, ask anything in my name, go and sin no more, and will I find faith when I return.
Uncomplicated. I love His teachings.