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In our spiritual journeys, we often encounter teachings that challenge us, push us out of our comfort zones, and make us question our beliefs. In these moments, the accurate measure of our faith is revealed. Are we determined to press on, even when the path becomes difficult, or are we easily deterred when faced with hard truths?

The Gospel of John, particularly chapter 6, powerfully illustrates this spiritual crossroads. Here, we witness a pivotal moment when Jesus' followers are confronted with a teaching that many found difficult to swallow—both figuratively and literally.

Jesus had just miraculously fed the 5,000 and walked on water to rescue His disciples from a storm. These incredible displays of divine power drew large crowds eager to see more. However, when Jesus began to speak about eating His flesh and drinking His blood as the path to eternal life, many were shocked and confused.

"This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" they complained. For the Jewish audience, accustomed to strict dietary laws forbidding the consumption of blood, this teaching was particularly jarring. It's important to note that Jesus wasn't advocating for cannibalism but rather using powerful imagery to convey a profound spiritual truth about Himself as the bread of life and the only way to salvation.

This moment serves as a litmus test, separating those who were merely following Jesus for the spectacle from those who truly believed in Him as the Messiah. John 6:66 says, “From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.”

Understanding what true discipleship means in light of this passage is crucial. Discipleship isn't a one-time decision or a casual association. It's a lifelong journey that begins with believing God's Word and accepting Christ as personal Savior. This initial step of faith is followed by obedience, symbolized by baptism, and continued through active participation in a local church community.

The essence of discipleship is obedience - not just in the big moments but in the daily choice to follow Christ's teachings, even when they're challenging or go against our natural inclinations.

In this passage, we see two distinct responses to Jesus' difficult teaching:

  1. The Deterred Disciples: These found Jesus' words too hard to accept. They were unwilling to put in the mental and spiritual effort required to understand and apply His teachings. Instead of seeking clarification or wrestling with the truth, they chose to walk away.
  2. The Determined Disciples: Represented by Peter and the twelve (excluding Judas), these followers demonstrated unwavering faith. When Jesus asked if they, too, would leave, Peter's response was decisive: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68, KJV)

This contrast highlights a fundamental truth: genuine faith in Christ as the Son of God distinguishes true disciples from false ones. It's not about perfectly understanding every teaching but about trusting in who Jesus is, even when His words challenge us.

Jesus Himself said in Matthew 7:21, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” This sobering statement reminds us that merely claiming to follow Christ isn't enough. True discipleship is evidenced by a life of obedience and a heart that seeks to do God's will.

The apostle Paul echoes this in Titus 1:16, warning about those who “profess that they know God; but in works they deny him.” True disciples don't just profess faith with their lips; their lives bear witness to their beliefs.

Following Christ isn't always easy. In fact, Jesus was clear about the cost of discipleship. In Luke 14:26-33, He uses strong language to emphasize that following Him requires putting Him above all else - even family and one's own life. He urges potential disciples to "count the cost" before committing, likening it to planning a tower or preparing for battle.

This brings us to a crucial point of self-reflection: Are we determined disciples or easily deterred? When faced with challenging teachings or difficult circumstances, do we press in deeper to understand God's truth, or do we look for an easy way out?

True discipleship requires a willingness to wrestle with hard truths, to seek understanding when things aren't clear, and to trust in God's character even when His ways don't align with our expectations. It's about choosing Christ over everything else, day after day.

The good news is that we don't have to do this in our own strength. The same passage in John 6 reminds us that “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” (John 6:63, KJV) As we submit to Christ and seek to follow Him, His Spirit empowers us to understand and apply His teachings, providing us with the support and guidance we need.

Today, each of us stands at a crossroads similar to those of the disciples in Capernaum. We have heard Christ's teachings—some comforting, some challenging. The question is: How will we respond?

Will we be like those who found the teaching too hard and walked away? Or will we echo Peter's words, recognizing that Jesus alone has the words of eternal life?

The decision to follow Christ wholeheartedly is the most significant one we can make. It's not just about securing a place in heaven, but about embarking on a transformative journey of becoming more like Christ each day. This journey is filled with hope and inspiration as we grow and transform into the image of our Savior.

As you reflect on this, consider where you stand. Are you a determined disciple, committed to following Christ even when difficult? Or have you been deterred by challenging teachings or circumstances?

Remember, true discipleship begins with genuine faith in who Jesus is and what He's done for us. It continues through a life of obedience, seeking to understand and apply His teachings with the help of the Holy Spirit.

The invitation is open to all. Will you choose to be a determined disciple, pressing on in faith, even when the path is difficult? The rewards of such a commitment are beyond measure - a life filled with purpose, the joy of knowing Christ, and the promise of eternal life in His presence.

The choice is yours. What will your response be?