The ‘cult of personality’ is interesting.
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.
John 10:27 (ESV)
Some people follow a particular person, oftentimes regardless of what they actually say or do. Their devotion is to the person above all else. Logic seems to be defied and sometimes conversations with persons not in the ‘cult’ are frustrating and fruitless.
Add to this that sometimes the followers are called ‘sheep’ and you get a recipe that often produces negative results.
In our readings today, we see this at play, but with a twist: we – the sheep – are called to follow our Great Shepherd, Jesus; period!
We are not called to give suggestions, make decisions, or even ask questions in these lessons. We are told that those who are followers of Jesus “hear His voice” and “follow Him.”
We are a ‘cult of personality’ with Jesus as the One we follow!
So, are we in a cult as Christians?
Well, cults are considered to have false teachings by the world and the followers living in an unconventional manner.
Well, could be!
The World doesn’t consider the Bible and God’s teachings in it true. We know they are. Following Jesus faithfully and living as His disciples will mean living in a manner unconventional to unbelievers.
But the fact is, following Jesus means never being in need. It means being led to “green pastures” and “still waters.” It means having our souls restored and being led to “paths of righteousness.” It means being given “never perishing,” being given “eternal life” and dwelling “in the House of the Lord forever.”
Jesus is the only One I want to follow! He is the only One I will follow! If that makes me considered as a ‘cult member,’ count me in!
“Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being our Good Shepherd who leads us to every good thing and life everlasting! Open our ears to hear Your voice only instead of the cacophony and chaos of our collapsed creation. Amen.”
Scriptures
- Psalm 23
- John 10:22-30
