Christianity, Without the Cross # 76

Mark 10:21

come, take up the cross, and follow me.

Christianity is a title given to describe a people that have chosen to follow after Christ. A lifestyle of courage and commitment that reminds the viewers of Jesus through the way we live. In the modern world, Christianity has changed to merely a confession from the mouth and belief of the heart. One can identify both confessing and devout Christians by observing their behavior. They may do everything identically, but what distinguishes them is their conviction to follow Christ.

Throughout the land, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is rarely preached anymore. It’s compromised to accommodate the professing believers. Their messages are lukewarm, non-offensive, and without conviction to keep the people from leaving. Gone are the sermons of brokenness, contrite spirit, repentance, intercessory prayer, and carrying of the cross. Sadly because of the diluting, many believers will not endure sound doctrine.

Multitudes have chosen to follow after Christ without repentance, conviction, or taking up their cross. They are weak and unstable, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine. Unable to tell the difference between the voice of God, the voice of the enemy, and their imagination.

Devoted Christians have chosen to follow after Christ by taking up their cross. Carrying the cross is done publicly for all to witness, a life of transparency and no secret. The cross is heavy, like an anchor to keep us stable and unmovable during the storm. It’s very uncomfortable to the flesh due to conviction and self-denial. The weight keeps us focused, steadfast, and without a doubt. Eventually, we will be crucified and displayed on the cross we carry.

The requirement is clear, take up your cross, then follow Christ. Declaring Christianity without the cross is what the unconverted do. They enjoy the title but reject the conviction to live without boundaries. Christianity is not a religion but a lifestyle emulating the life of Christ. Each one must decide for themselves and count the cost to follow Him.

Dear readers, In the Roman era, individuals who carried a cross were sentenced to death. If today, Christianity was a crime punishable by death, is there enough evidence to convict and put you to death? Some Christians will have overwhelming evidence, and some will not. What will they find in you? What are the people seeing that makes you different from the rest?

2Tim 4:3, Eph 4:14

KJV