Denying Self
Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011We are now well into our journey to be not just fans of Jesus but completely, committed followers. I hope the “not a fan.” series is having a profound affect on our church family. Denying self is at the core of what it takes to be a follower. The following is part of an article I would like to share with you from well-known author John MacArthur.
Great scientists often risk their health to make important discoveries. Great medical researchers risk exposure to deadly disease to save thousands of lives. Great artists and musicians sacrifice their social life to practice and perfect their craft. Great athletes constantly train their bodies, denying themselves pleasures most people take for granted. The easy way is never the way of success.
That was true of John the Baptist. Jesus questioned a crowd who had followed John, “But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Those who wear soft clothing are in king’s palaces!” (Matt. 11:8) His question reveals an important characteristic of John’s: his self-denial.
John’s life could never be described as easy. He wore “a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey.” (Matt. 3:4) He was God’s messenger, but he didn’t live, dress, or talk like the other religious leaders of the day. John’s garment was practical and durable, certainly not comfortable or fashionable.
John’s very dress, food, and lifestyle were a stern rebuke to the self-satisfied and self-indulgent religious leaders of Israel—the scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and priests. Both physically and symbolically, he separated himself from the hypocritical and corrupt religious and political systems. He was so consumed by God’s calling he was not attracted to the world’s enticements. His devotion to ministry completely superseded any personal interests and comforts.
John’s self-denial was also a rebuke to those people who longed for their leaders’ comforts although they couldn’t indulge in their leaders’ privileges. . . But his lifestyle was a dramatic reminder that worldly lusts and pleasures prevent people from following God’s will completely and humbly.
John’s life-long, voluntary self-denial was the ultimate act of devotion to God and is a great example for us to follow.
Have you risked anything to fully follow Jesus? The easy way is not the road we’ve been called to travel. But the destination is out of this world!
Praying for You,
Tim
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