“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.” — John 12:24-26
Recently, I watched a World War II movie which had the following dialogue between two characters:
Captain: “You know why you hid in that ditch?”
Private: “I was scared.”
Captain “We’re all scared. You hid in that ditch because you think there’s still hope. But, the only hope you have is to accept the fact that you’re already dead. And the sooner you accept that, the sooner you’ll be able to function as a soldier is supposed to function.”
This dialogue echoes Jesus’ words in John. As a Christian, embracing the fact we are already dead has many powerful implications for our lives. Embracing this truth allows us to function like a Christian should function.
Embracing This Truth
For example, we can resist sin and temptation knowing we are already dead to sin (Romans 6:1-6). This truth also allows us to joyfully accept mistreatment in this world (Hebrews 10:34), including persecution and getting canceled. Embracing this truth allows us to live a life of faith (Galatians 2:20). In addition, it strengthens us to follow Jesus more fully (Luke 14:27).
Christian, you’re already dead! As a follower of Jesus, we must embrace this fact. As a result, living this truth will allow us to live a life of faith, truly follow Jesus, resist temptation and sin, and gladly accept the loss of our reputation.
Embracing this truth,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor