This past Sunday in our Contending series (the letter of Jude), I talked about “Contending for Lordship.” What does it really mean that Jesus is not only the Savior but also Lord and Master. Jesus’ lordship confronts those who sit on the fence… people who are trying to live in two worlds with two values systems led by two masters.

Jesus has some harsh words to say to fence sitters in Revelation 3:15-16: “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.”

Bottom line: Get off the fence!

I’ve lived on the fence. After college, Jesus convicted me that I had been riding the fence for far too long. And it was a process of asking myself (and others asking me) some hard questions about why I attempted to live in two worlds. Here are a couple of questions that I processed through, and I hope you’ll take the time to do this as well:

1) What are the values, actions, or patterns of sin that “compete” with Jesus’ lordship in my life? Why?

2) Are they ultimately satisfying? Do they ultimately satisfy the deepest longings of my heart? Why or why not?

3) If I continue to live with these values, actions, and patterns of sin, what’s the result? What do I lose?

4) What’s the result of being “lukewarm” (I.e., living on the fence)?

5) What do I gain from surrendering full control and lordship to Jesus? (see Luke 9:24)

For further exploration of contending for and following through on Jesus’ lordship, read “Cross Bearing: Choice, Vision & Follow-through”

If you’re on the fence, here’s my heartfelt prayer for you: “Lord, help my friend climb off the fence. Give them the grace and courage to say ‘no’ to sin and the values of this world. Help them to see that You truly are their greatest good… that as they delight in you above all else, the deepest longings of their heart will be satisfied.”

I’m praying for you as you contend for Jesus’ lordship in your life!