Dictionary of Bible Themes Commitment to Jesus Christ is grounded in the knowledge of his saving power and divinity, and expresses itself in adoration and obedience to Jesus Christ. Matthew 4:19Jesus Christ commanded people to make the commitment to follow him Matthew 9:9pp Mk 1:17 See also pp Mk 2:14 Matthew 19:21-22pp Lk 5:27 John 1:43; 21:19,22Romans 15:5 1 Corinthians 1:12 There may have been a "Christ-party" at Corinth, or in contrast with the sectarianism, Paul may be asserting his own commitment to Jesus Christ. Matthew 10:37-38Jesus Christ frequently spelt out the cost of commitment to him Matthew 16:24pp Lk 14:26-27 John 12:25-26pp Mk 8:34 See also pp Lk 9:23 Matthew 8:22; 10:39Matthew 19:21 pp Mk 8:35 pp Lk 17:33 Luke 14:28-33pp Mk 10:21 1 Peter 2:21pp Lk 18:22 Luke 9:59Jesus Christ's demand for commitment was sometimes met with a refusal See also Luke 9:61John 6:2 Sometimes people followed Jesus Christ without being truly committed to him See also John 6:66This would have been true for many in the crowds. Matthew 4:20Some committed themselves wholeheartedly to his invitation Matthew 4:22pp Mk 1:18 Matthew 9:9pp Mk 1:20 John 1:40pp Mk 2:14 pp Lk 5:28 John 12:42Secret commitment to Jesus Christ See also John 3:1-2John 14:21 True commitment to Jesus Christ is seen in love and obedience to him Philippians 2:12See also John 8:31; 14:15,23-24In response to who Jesus Christ is and what he has done. 1 Corinthians 11:1; 16:22Ephesians 6:5-6,24 1 John 2:3; 3:22-24 Revelation 14:4 See also 2224 Jesus Christ, the Lord5592 treaty 7622 disciples, characteristics 7708 apostles, function 7730 explanation 8102 abiding in Christ 8116 discipleship, cost 8120 following Christ 8408 decision-making 8453 obedience 8459 perseverance 8475 self-denial |
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