LOVING CHRIST ABOVE ALL
JULY 11, 2025
TEXT: Luke 14:25–27
KEY VERSE: “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” – Luke 14:26
Admission into higher institutions is highly competitive around the world. Even when applicants meet academic requirements, limited slots and high demand often prevent many from gaining admission. However, in Christ’s discipleship school, there is no limit. Everyone is welcome, but not without meeting the clear conditions He set for true discipleship.
Large crowds followed Jesus, but He wasn’t flattered by their numbers. He turned and told them plainly what it truly means to be His disciple. He wasn’t seeking casual followers but committed people who were ready to meet His terms.
Jesus began with, “If any man comes to me,” making it clear that discipleship is a personal decision. Being present in church, listening to sermons, or enjoying spiritual experiences does not automatically qualify one as a disciple. Jesus requires more than interest—He calls for absolute devotion.
When He said a disciple must “hate” father, mother, spouse, children, siblings, and even their own life, He was not commanding literal hatred. Instead, He was using strong language to stress that love for Him must come first. Nothing—not family, ambition, or personal desires—should take precedence over obedience to Christ. When loyalty to others competes with loyalty to Him, a true disciple chooses Christ.
Such consecration is only possible through genuine salvation. No one can meet this standard in their own strength. But when a person encounters Christ and experiences His saving grace, their heart is transformed. Love for Him becomes greater than anything else.
Jesus’ words were bold, and only someone with divine authority could demand such complete surrender. He was not a prophet making high claims—He is the Son of God, and He deserves our total loyalty. To follow Him means putting Him above every relationship and every comfort.
SEARCH LIGHT: Being in the crowd doesn’t make you a disciple. Loving Christ above all else is the starting point of true discipleship.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, give me the grace to love You above all and to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even when it costs me. Help me to live as a true disciple.
BIBLE READING: Psalms 114-116, 2 John 1
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
