Connect In: Christ-like Disciplines
Gary Byrum, Associate Pastor | Pastoral Care & Senior Adults
This is an admirable question, but, as we look at the “heart
issues” that Jesus highlights in Matthew 5, perhaps a better question for
followers of Christ to consider is “WWJB” or “Who Would Jesus Be?” in the
particular situation confronting the faithful believer.
“Doing” may focus on the external, on the actions that
people can see; “Being” more significantly focuses on the internal, the deeper
motivations of the heart. And the
deeper heart issues are Jesus’ concern in this chapter.
“You have heard that it was said . . .” and then a statement
of law and measurement.
“But I say to you . . .” and then a statement of deeper
meaning, deeper consequence, matters concerning the thoughts and intentions of
the heart.
So as disciples of
Christ, what disciplines can we
develop that flow out of an understanding of who Jesus is and how Jesus’ heart
motivates what Jesus would do?
Let’s look at just a few of the heart motivations and
intentions that Jesus shares in the Gospels:
- Most Important Commandments: Love God, love your neighbor (Matt. 22:36-40).
- Motivation: Moved with compassion (Matt. 9:36).
- Mission: To seek and to save that which is lost (Luke 19:10).
- Model: Servanthood (John 13:3-17).
Engage Jesus’ heart.
How does His heart impact your walk, your disciplined life in Christ
today?
TWEETABLE QUOTE: As disciples of
Christ, what disciplines cn we
develop tht flow out of knowing who Jesus is & how Jesus’ heart motivates
wht Jesus would do?
