Why Do You Call Him Lord?

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” ~ Luke 6.46

That is Jesus talking, and it is a very interesting question.  He’s been speaking to me through this verse since I recently heard it when my youth pastor touched on it last night. I would like to make a few observations from it.

First, this question is pointed enough without the second part of the question, if you really stop to ponder it.  Why do you call Jesus “Lord”?  One of the many dictionary definitions of the word “lord” is “A man of renowned power or authority.”  Do you see what Jesus is getting at?  Why do you (Eaton) call Him the boss when you don’t live like He’s your boss?  Why do you say He’s your master if you don’t obey Him?

So the second half of the verse naturally follows.  Why do you call Him Lord and NOT DO WHAT HE TELLS YOU (EATON)!?  Is He just a get out of jail free card to you?  Do you just have Him in your back pocket because you go to church and want to make a good impression on your friends?  Do you tell everyone He’s the ruler of your life, but His Word has no effect on your actions?  Or…do you really believe that His commands are beautiful and worth following, just as He promises they are in His Word?  When He tells you in His Word to do something, do you trust Him enough to do it?

Eaton, says Jesus, Stop calling me your master in speech and not living under my authority.  Stop breezing over my commands and saying “Oh, that’s nice” or “Oh, this is a stimulating discussion” in small groups and church, but you don’t DO ANYTHING.  Reach out to strangers.  Love your neighbor as yourself.  Cast all your burdens on Me and stop trying to carry them yourself.  Put Me first in every area of your life.  That’s what My Word says.  I never told you to have stimulating discussions about my Word that don’t overflow to something more.  Less talk, more action, Eaton.

…Because I SAID SO.  And, because this is for your joy.  Because I am always at work for your good and My glory.