Josh McGuire - Accepting Christ | Austin CFC | 2020-11-15
Summary
The speaker discusses the necessity of truly understanding how one comes into a saving relationship with Christ, warning against the vague concept of 'accepting Christ.' He contrasts this with established biblical calls to believe or receive Christ as Lord and Savior. The central message is that true faith requires more than passive acceptance; it must be a genuine commitment understood deeply.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The danger of casually accepting ChristQuoting A.W. Tozer, the speaker highlights that many people assume they are saved without truly understanding how one comes into a saving relationship with Christ, leading millions astray.
Is "accepting Christ" biblical?The phrase "accept Christ" does not actually appear in the Bible, and presenting Jesus as a beggar waiting on our verdict makes salvation painless and cost-free.
Rejecting the buffet-style ChristianityMany believers treat Christ like a buffet where they pick forgiveness and blessings while rejecting obedience and trials, which is not how Jesus presents Himself.
Jesus sets the termsJesus issues an open invitation to come to Him, but He does not beg, compromise, or change His terms.
Calculate the cost like a builder or kingUsing the examples of building a tower or going to war, Jesus warns listeners not to make a hasty decision without first counting the cost.Luke 14:28–32
The first term: giving up all possessionsJesus states the clear condition of discipleship: no one can be His disciple unless they give up all their own possessions.
Surrendering intelligence, talents, and peopleGiving up possessions goes beyond material things to include our intelligence, skills, time, and even relationships with family members, holding nothing back in our own hands.
Regarded as servants and stewardsBelievers are called to view themselves as servants of Christ and stewards of God's mysteries, requiring faithfulness in everything entrusted to them.
Coming to the table with an empty plateInstead of picking and choosing what we want from God, true surrender means handing Him an empty plate and accepting whatever He chooses to give, including suffering.
Embracing His wonderful termsSummarizing the message, the speaker encourages believers not to be discouraged if they missed these terms before, but to repent of holding onto control and instead cling fully to Christ.
