Jesus was a man on a mission. He didn’t drift through life aimlessly, nor simply adopt the cultural models of his day and age. He knew why he’d come. He knew why he’d been sent. In his own words: “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose.” (Luke 4:43) “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10) “The Son of Man came not to be served...

Forgiveness is one of the hardest things you will ever be asked to do. “Why should I have to pay for someone else’s sin? Why should I have to bear the consequences of others’ wrongdoing, while they get off scot-free? It’s not fair.” No, it’s not. Forgiveness is always grace. But it’s what followers of Jesus are called to do. Jesus clearly and repeatedly mandates that his disciples be forgiving people. Not three times. Not seven times. But seventy-seven times over (see Matthew 18:21-22). The point is not that you literally count 74, 75, 76, 77 – “there, that’s it,...

In a world of self-indulgence, instant gratification, and “love-thyself” positivity, Jesus’ call to discipleship sounds wildly ungracious: “Hate your self, lose your life.” What?! How could a loving God be so cruel? You’re wise if you realize these words deserve some explanation. But first, let’s be clear that Jesus didn’t come to rubber stamp your life as is. People often say, “God loves you just the way you are,” perhaps giving a nod to John 3:16 or something. But this statement is false as it’s often intended – meaning Jesus accepts and affirms your natural, innate intuitions, choices, and lifestyle....