[Jesus said,] "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." —Matthew 7:13-14

Over two decades ago, Juan Carlos Ortiz criticized European and American evangelists for offering a carrot stick gospel that focused on the pay off and not lordship of Jesus. Jesus, especially in Matthew 7, reminds us that grace does not dismiss discipleship and mercy does not release us from our need to genuinely repent. We must accept the grace that is given us and truly let Jesus be Lord of our lives. It's not an either-or proposition, but a both-and call from God to receive grace and to follow Jesus as Lord.

Prayer...

Almighty God, holy and awesome in your majesty and might, I know that I will never be worthy of your grace. I know that my flesh can be easily lured away from the path of discipleship. So please help me as I seek to follow the Good Shepherd on your way of salvation. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.