How can we guard against rejecting Jesus' truth in our own lives? Context: When Truth Was Rejected “Then the high priest tore his clothes and declared, ‘He has blasphemed! Why do we still need witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy.’” (Matthew 26:65) The high priest’s violent response shows how pride, fear of losing power, and spiritual blindness can slam the door on Jesus’ words. That same danger lurks in every heart today. Warning signs in us that mirror the high priest • Treating Scripture as ammunition to defend our opinions instead of a mirror to expose our hearts (John 5:39-40). • Resisting correction because reputation matters more than repentance (Proverbs 12:1). • Feeling threatened when Jesus challenges cherished traditions or comforts (Matthew 15:3-9). • Making quick judgments based on partial information and emotion rather than patiently weighing God’s truth (Proverbs 18:13). • Silencing the Spirit’s conviction—“Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). Practices that keep our hearts soft to Jesus’ voice • Daily submission: “Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Consistent, humble intake of the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27), letting the text rule our thinking. • Immediate obedience to what we already know (James 1:22). • Fellowship with believers who speak truth in love and exhort us so we are “not hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13). • Remembering the cross—seeing how seriously God treats sin and how deeply He loves us (Romans 5:8). Truth checks from other passages • John 8:31-32—Abiding in Jesus’ word anchors us in truth. • Hebrews 4:12—The Word cuts through self-deception. • 2 Timothy 4:3-4—Guard against itching ears that prefer pleasant myths. • Revelation 3:20—Jesus still knocks; openness keeps fellowship alive. • Matthew 13:18-23—Cultivate good soil by rooting out distractions and worries. Walking it out daily 1. Begin the day reading Scripture aloud; ask, “What does this reveal about Christ to believe and obey today?” 2. Keep a repentant posture—confess sin quickly; don’t excuse it. 3. Memorize key verses that confront personal weak spots (Psalm 119:11). 4. Schedule regular solitude to listen for the Spirit’s prompting before major decisions. 5. Invite accountability—share struggles with a mature believer who will speak biblical truth. 6. Celebrate Christ’s faithfulness in answered prayers and changed desires; gratitude fuels continued openness. Staying alert to these practices shields us from the high priest’s tragic pattern and keeps our hearts welcoming every word Jesus speaks. |
    |