Bible Study

Bible Study February 21, 2025

“Sold Out”

What is our commitment to Jesus? Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”. This verse emphasizes the need for complete self-denial and dedication to following Jesus, signifying a total commitment to Him.”

Galatians 2:20:

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – This verse highlights the idea of surrendering one’s life to Christ and living solely through faith in Him.”

Luke 9:23:

“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” – This reiterates the concept of daily commitment and self-denial in following Jesus.

I have this book I bought titled “Jesus Freaks” by dc Talk and Toby Mac. It is a book that outlines a number of people who have been imprisoned, tortured, or even put to death for their faith. It made me think how “Sold Out” are we as believers today?

Real faith in Jesus makes people uncomfortable but why. When we share the good news it is not about us we are telling the story of another far greater than we. We should never stop seeking the opportunity to share the “good news.”

One particular story caught my attention. Orson Vila was a pastor of a house church in Cuba and Castro’s government implemented a new law designed to close down these churches. His church was averaging 2,500 in attendance. He was arrested and as you might think he was not given affair trial in Cuba and imprisoned for twenty-one months in a Cuban prison.

Upon his release he shared this: “I am so thankful for the power of prayer. I received strength from God and was never ill – no flu -, no skin disease, no illness at all. And I had lots of opportunities to share the gospel with  my fellow inmates.”

Paul wrote in Philippians 1:19 – 20 “I’m glad because I know that this will result in my release through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. 20 It is my expectation and hope that I won’t be put to shame in anything. Rather, I hope with daring courage that Christ’s greatness will be seen in my body, now as always, whether I live or die.”

Stand firm in your faith and when all else is gone stand firm.

God Bless.