Counter-Culture Pt1: The Narrow Path of Life
February 18, 2024
This week, we ignite a fire under a series that promises to challenge us, reshape us, and dare I say, revolutionize the way we see our walk with God. "Counter-Culture" isn't just a series; it's a battle cry for those who are weary of walking the broad, beaten paths that the world lays out so enticingly before us that leads to death and destruction. We're gathering every Wednesday night and Sunday morning to dive deep. Sure, I'll recap for those who can only join once a week, but let me tell you, each session is a unique gem you won't want to miss.
The Foundation That Shakes the Ground
We've laid our foundation for the series on Matthew 7:13-14, a passage that doesn't just suggest but commands us to seek the narrow gate. The world? It's on a sprint down that broad road, chasing after shadows that promise fulfillment and deliver emptiness. But Christians? We're called to the path less traveled, where true life burgeons, even if it demands every ounce of courage we possess.
Jesus: The Narrow Gate to Abundant Life
Hear me when I say this: the narrow gate is none other than Jesus The Messiah, the Christ, Himself. He's not just a good shepherd; He's THE GOOD SHEPHERD, who calls us to pastures so green, we'll wonder why we ever settled for the barren landscapes of this world. But this path? It's not for the half-hearted. It demands your all because He gave us His all. Yes, your salvation is free, but I’ve said several times, your discipleship, you're following Him, costs you something. Matthew 16:24 Jesus plainly tells us “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”
The Voice in the Storm
Our world is a tempest. Voices clamor for our attention, promising guidance yet leading us further into the storm. But there's one voice that cuts through the chaos — the voice of Jesus. He doesn't always shout above the storm; many times He whispers directly into our hearts, "Follow me." And in that whisper, there's a strength, a certainty that we'll find nowhere else.
A Cautionary Tale from Within
Let me share a story that weighs heavy on my heart. A soul once part of our flock felt called away, convinced they heard God's direction. But their path diverged not just from our community but from the scriptural truths. Very district scriptural truths. Friends, so much of our very strength lies in bearing each other's burdens, in seeking and offering prayer for each other, in walking this narrow path together. I’ve shared this quote from an unknown source many times. “If you want to get somewhere fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.” Christ has given us a group to travel this road together with. This group is called, His Church. When one strays based on a voice that contradicts the Word, it's a journey that leads away from the light, into shadows of confusion, loneliness and ultimately bitterness.
The Kingdom's Culture vs. The World's Facade
We're stepping into the Beatitudes next, and I promise you, it's a stark contrast to the world's values. The world sees meekness as weakness, mourning as defeat, but in the Kingdom? These are the blessed ones, the cherished ones; those who are “living the good life”. It's a kingdom where trials forge us stronger, closer to God, not as the world, which sees trials as mere obstacles to happiness.
Embracing Trials with Joy
Yes, you heard that right. Joy in trials. Because each trial, each tribulation brings us one step closer to the heart of God and truly seeing His strength in our weakness like Paul did in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. It's not about seeking out suffering but recognizing that in our lowest moments, we're actually closest to Him, being molded into His image, prepared for His Kingdom and growing in patience and faith.
Blessed Are You
As we embark on this journey through "Counter-Culture," let's hold tight to this promise: that the narrow path, though rugged, leads to life abundant, to a joy unspeakable, and to a peace that surpasses all understanding. This is our call, our mission, and our joy — to live counter to the culture, anchored in the truth of the Gospel, walking hand in hand with our Savior.