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Greater Works and the Cost
Jesus taught that following him would require a willingness to endure challenges. That the works of Christ, works he plans to do through us, would include a cost. The history of the church, since its beginning, attests to that.
When Jesus began making the claims we’ve examined thus far, serious opposition arose (John 5:16,18). And for the greater works to have their full weight and power, it would require Christ to experience the torture of the cross. The writer of Hebrews penned the following, while urging us to “keep our eyes on Jesus:”
"... For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him who endured such hostility from sinners against himself, so that you won’t grow weary and give up" (Hebrews 12:2-3, CSB).
Therefore, to varying degrees, whether it is our time, our treasures, facing ridicule, changing vocations or locations, or perhaps even death, great works include a cost. Sharing about Christ’s life and work won’t always be welcomed or received. Especially if you live in a time and culture that falsely claims every belief and lifestyle is acceptable to God. The words from Jesus never alluded to the greater works being free from opposition (John 15:18-16:4). And though Jesus conveyed that great works come with a cost, they also come with a promised gain:
"You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matt. 5:11-12, CSB).
While this promise is both encouraging and daunting, the Lord will stand with us, empowering us for what may lie ahead (2 Timothy 4:16-18). It won’t be easy or comfortable. The challenges, along with subsequent feelings and fears, are real (Acts 18:9-10). But staying the course is possible because Jesus promised to be with us to the end of the age--no matter what (Matthew 28:20).
Reflection: Why did Jesus warn about the cost of following him? Thank him for his grace and presence, which strengthen us to be faithful.
John 15:18, 16:4
2 Timothy 4:6-18
Acts 18:9-11
About this Plan
In John 5, after Jesus heals a man at the pool of Bethesda, he then declared that greater works would occur, causing people to be amazed. Over the next thirty days, this plan by Dr. P. J. Meduri from Taking the Field Ministries will explore the claims of Christ regarding these greater works. Works he continues today through his followers.
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We would like to thank Taking the Field Ministries for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://takingthefield.org
