Scripture: Matthew 11:20-30
When we are sick we run to the doctor really fast. We want to get better. But when we think we are ok, and someone recommends we start reading a particular book or join a particular group, we don’t usually respond as quickly. In the long run that group or book will probably make more of an impact on our life than going to the doctor because we just have a little cold. But when we are sick we know the doctor will help. If we think we already know about the contents of the book or we are already involved in “enough” groups we aren’t quick to jump on those opportunities.
When it comes to following Jesus, it is often times much easier for someone who knows they need help to follow Jesus than it is for someone who thinks their life is going well.
Jesus said, “For if the miracles I did for you had been done in wicked Sodom, it would still be here today.” Why did Jesus say this? Because Sodom would have realized its sinfulness and repented of its sins. But in towns like Korazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, they were too wise and clever to follow Jesus. They were too religious. They thought they were right and doing well.
What is amazing is that although the towns as a whole were warned by Jesus that judgment was coming for them, Jesus still performed miracles there and called individuals to come to him. I like the summary written in my Word of Life Quiet Time. They write this, “These systems were never meant to be a way to salvation. They were always meant to be a way to share salvation with a lost and dying world.“ If you are involved in a church, it’s important to realize that being a part of the church is not the way to salvation, but it is a way to share salvation with a lost and dying world. Many people are involved in a church and are too busy to realize that they are trusting in the system instead of in the Savior (Jesus).
But there are more systems promising salvation in this world than just religious groups or churches. What system or group are you currently involved in that is preventing you from following Jesus? Has your system of doing things made you so consumed with doing things that it has impeded your ability to follow Jesus? Jesus wants everyone to come to him, but oftentimes it is our own “wisdom” that prevents us from following Jesus.
Jesus is saying to you, “come to me.” Don’t let your group or system make the decision for you.