How Can You Be Committed to Christ?

John 12

Do you have anything that you are totally committed to? I mean every time… you show up 100%. Perhaps it is a sport you are in, a certain subject in school, a hobby you enjoy, your work. Why are you like that? What motivates you to show up and give it your all every time.

In this passage we see how Jesus is anointed in Bethany, triumphantly enters Jerusalem, predicts his death and condemns those who reject him. We see him in his full glory… God’s glory being the ultimate example of one who shows up to bring glory to God and do His will. We see him predict how his death will ultimately bear fruit for God’s kingdom.

Again… What motivates you to show up and give it your all every time. Have you ever thought about showing up for God in the same way?

By studying this passage and the example given to us by Christ we learn that total commitment is evident by death to self and fruitfulness.

In the first 11 verses, Jesus is anointed by Mary at his feet in Bethany six days before the Passover. It is a beautiful example of how we can serve Christ. The love we have for Christ is shown by our service to him, our words with him and our hearts for him. Costly devotion is precious to Christ.

In what ways do you show Christ that you love him?

In verse 12 through 19, Jesus makes a triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey as news of his miracles spread. This section of verses is a beautiful example of how Christ serves his father even though he knew what would be in store for him in the near future. He was the prophesied Messiah. He would soon voluntarily suffer and die on the cross. The life of Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s plan prophesied in the Old Testament.

How do you show Christ that he is your King?

In verses 20-36, Jesus predicts his death, his hour to be glorified and its meaning for all men. Jesus is the light… belief in him requires a decision of the heart now before it is too late. The key to a resurrected life, power and fruitfulness is dying to self.

Are you still waiting? What are you waiting for? Is your heart preventing you from walking in the light right now?

In the last section of verses, we see the Jews as they continue in their unbelief and Jesus reveals that God’s word would condemn them. The decision not to believe eventually results in not being able to believe. Those who reject Jesus will be judged.

Are there parts of your life where you are quiet for Christ because you are seeking the praise of men?

This passage touches on many important aspects of a Christian walk.

. Costly devotion is precious to Christ.

. Christ is our King and we should treat him as such.

. “He must increase… I must decrease.”

. Those who reject Christ will be judged.

. Our fruitfulness starts with our decision to follow Christ.

Christ wants you to show up 100% for him in this life. You can do it but only through his power and his glory…

And to do it we all must die to self!

Amen