by Ester yusufu | 22 July 2024 08:46 pm07
Matthew 10:33– “But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.”
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today’s message is both sobering and vital—it reminds us that confessing Christ is not just about words, but about a life of loyalty and obedience. Jesus gives a warning: if we deny Him before people, He will deny us before God the Father. This is not symbolic language—it is a declaration about eternal consequences.
The Greek word for “deny” (arneomai) means to refuse to acknowledge, to reject, or disown. It’s more than just words—it’s a heart posture and lifestyle that distances itself from Christ, especially when doing so seems more convenient or socially acceptable.
To “deny” someone is to reject a relationship that once existed or was claimed. Think of it like being disowned by a friend you thought would always stand by you—someone you trusted, walked with, believed in, and leaned on. It’s painful.
This was the tragedy of Peter’s denial (Luke 22:54–62), though he repented. But Jesus warns of a final, eternal denial in Matthew 10:33—where there is no coming back.
While betrayal involves working against someone (as Judas did, Matthew 26:14–16), denial is distancing oneself from someone—often under pressure or fear.
Both are sins, but denial often comes from weakness, while betrayal is intentional treachery. Yet, without repentance, both can separate us from Christ.
Imagine arriving at the gates of eternity, expecting a warm welcome from Jesus—the one whose name you prayed in, who healed you, who performed miracles through you. But instead, He says:
Matthew 7:22–23
“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’
And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”
The shock isn’t that Jesus doesn’t recognize their works—it’s that He doesn’t know them. Why? Because they used His name but didn’t obey His will.
This challenges us theologically: miracles and ministry are not proof of salvation. What matters is obedience, faithfulness, and a true relationship with Christ (see John 14:15).
The Christian life isn’t about a one-time confession. It’s a daily journey of surrender, obedience, and transformation. That’s why Paul, despite all his revelations, never became complacent.
Ephesians 5:10 “Find out what pleases the Lord.”
1 Corinthians 9:26–27
“Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.”y to
Philippians 3:12–14
“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me… I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s theology was clear: Salvation is by grace (Ephesians 2:8–9), but it results in a transformed life of pressing forward—never looking back.
Let’s ask ourselves: Are we confessing Christ only when it’s comfortable? Do our lives show loyalty to Him in public and private? Are we living in a way that says, “Jesus is my Lord”—not just with words, but with obedience?
We must not merely claim the name of Jesus—we must walk in His will. The day will come when Jesus will either confess us before the Father—or deny us. And that verdict is final.
Lord Jesus, help us never to be ashamed of You. Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith—even when it’s difficult. May our lives reflect our love and loyalty to You, so that on that final day, You will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Amen.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2024/07/22/be-careful-not-to-be-denied-by-jesus/
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