Mark 10:1-31

Jesus often taught about loving people. He regularly spent time with people who others ignored or rejected. He loved everyone enough to die for them. Because of that, some people might say or think these kinds of things:

1. “Jesus is OK with whatever people think and do.”
2. “Jesus would never condemn anyone.”
3. “Jesus wants everyone to be happy all the time.”
4. “Jesus is against laws and rules. All he cares about is love.”

Fact: Jesus does love everyone, did die for everyone, and does offer new and real life to everyone.

Also fact: The ideas listed above are as misguided about Jesus’ real identity and purpose as the things people thought about the Messiah when Jesus was alive.

Following Jesus means honoring God's design for creation. It means loving him more than anything or anyone else. It means being willing to suffer on his behalf. It means being willing to give up whatever it is we think we can’t live without. It means serving others instead of seeking recognition and power and prestige.

Jesus didn’t chase after the rich man and say, “Wait! Don’t walk away! I’ll take back everything I said if you’ll just stay.” He didn’t say to his disciples, “I don’t want following me to be hard — so forget all the stuff about suffering and service.”

To us, Jesus says, “Following me will cost your life. But it will also give you life because I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”