Jesus Is Speaking To His Father About You

Confessing Christ: A Matter of Eternal Significance

In a world that often pressures us to remain silent about our faith, we are called to a bold confession of Jesus Christ. This isn't just about casually mentioning that we're Christians – it's about a sincere, public affirmation of who Jesus is and what He has done for us. The stakes couldn't be higher, as our willingness to confess Christ before others has eternal implications.

Jesus himself said, "Everyone who confesses me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 10:32). What an incredible promise! When we openly acknowledge our relationship with Christ, He reciprocates by speaking on our behalf before the Father. It's a beautiful exchange of affection and loyalty.

However, the flip side of this truth is equally sobering. Jesus continues, "But whoever denies me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 10:33). This denial isn't just about verbally rejecting Christ – it can manifest in subtle ways like hypocrisy, wearing masks in different social circles, or persistent disobedience to God's commands.

We might be tempted to think that following Jesus will bring peace and harmony to all our relationships. Yet, Jesus challenges this notion head-on: "Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword" (Matthew 10:34). He goes on to describe how allegiance to Him can create division even within families.

This is a hard teaching, especially in cultures that place high value on family ties. But Jesus is clear – our devotion to Him must surpass even our closest earthly relationships. "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me" (Matthew 10:37).

Does this mean we should neglect or disrespect our families? Absolutely not. But it does mean that our ultimate allegiance belongs to Christ. When forced to choose between pleasing family members and obeying God, we must choose God every time.

The path of following Jesus isn't always smooth. It requires taking up our cross daily, dying to our selfish desires, and potentially facing rejection from those closest to us. Yet paradoxically, Jesus teaches that it's in losing our lives for His sake that we truly find them (Matthew 10:39).

This countercultural message flies in the face of worldly wisdom that tells us to look out for ourselves first. But the way of Christ invites us into a deeper, richer life – one where our identity and worth are rooted in Him rather than in fleeting earthly accolades or relationships.

As we wrestle with what it means to confess Christ boldly, we can't ignore the sobering example of Peter's denial. On the night of Jesus' arrest, Peter – one of Jesus' closest disciples – denied knowing Him three times. The gospel of Matthew recounts this heart-wrenching scene:

"Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard, and a servant-girl came to him and said, 'You too were with Jesus the Galilean.' But he denied it before them all, saying, 'I do not know what you are talking about.'" (Matthew 26:69-70)

Peter's denial escalated, with him eventually cursing and swearing that he didn't know Jesus. It's a stark reminder of how easily we can falter under pressure, especially when facing potential ridicule or danger.

Yet Peter's story doesn't end there. When he realized what he had done, "he went out and wept bitterly" (Matthew 26:75). His genuine remorse and repentance paved the way for restoration and a powerful ministry.

This account serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns us of our own potential for failure and the need to stay vigilant in our faith. But it also reminds us that even when we fall short, there is hope for forgiveness and renewal through Christ.

As we navigate a world that is often hostile to the gospel, how can we cultivate the courage to confess Christ consistently? Here are a few practical suggestions:

1. Root yourself deeply in God's Word and prayer. The more intimately we know Christ, the more naturally we'll speak of Him to others.

2. Seek the support of other believers. We need the encouragement and accountability of Christian community.

3. Look for everyday opportunities to mention your faith. It doesn't always have to be a full gospel presentation – even small references to God's work in your life can open doors.

4. Remember the eternal perspective. The temporary discomfort or rejection we might face pales in comparison to the joy of hearing Christ confess us before the Father.

5. Be prepared to give an answer for the hope you have, with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).

Confessing Christ isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Our willingness to acknowledge Him publicly demonstrates the reality of our faith and can be a powerful witness to those around us. May we be found faithful in this calling, trusting that as we confess Christ before others, He is faithful to confess us before the Father.

Let's challenge ourselves: In what areas of our lives might we be tempted to deny Christ, either through our words or actions? How can we intentionally look for opportunities this week to speak of Jesus to someone who needs to hear about Him? As we reflect on these questions, may we be emboldened to live as true confessors of Christ, knowing that our eternal destiny hangs in the balance.