Some of the things Jesus said were pure poetry, beautiful teaching, or memorable parables; but here is something Jesus said that really cut to the bone.
“He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.” Matthew 12:30, NIV.
EITHER OR...
Jesus says you are one or the other, there is no middle. He says we must be “with” him as if our identity and future is one with his; and we are to “gather,” that is to work at bringing others to him.
AGAINST JESUS?
It is clear that if we are not with Jesus then we are against Jesus. Who would be "against" Jesus? Jesus lived the most beautiful life ever and offers the power to live that life to any who come to him. He lived perfect love, mercy, and compassion. He is himself the “Way the truth and the life,” (John 14:6). He is the “Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep,” (John 10:11). With or against- Jesus did not give a third option.
GATHER
So few "gather" and even in the church many oppose the Lord and "scatter." We say, “I am "with" Jesus. I go to church, I tithe, and I give my time.” You can do all that and still not be "with" Jesus. We don’t consider ourselves against Jesus; we are just neutral or waiting for a better time; but to Jesus neutral, passive, halfhearted or wait till later are the same as against and scattering.
To be with Jesus means:
• Having his purposes as your purposes.
• Being close in the companionship of Jesus.
• Participating in action and heart in the same task as Jesus.
• To share his identity and lot.
• To experience the same treatment as was given to Jesus.
• Performing the same work he did.
To be with Jesus is to be a gatherer. We are to draw people to Jesus, and our actions should attract people to Him. Our words should make others wish to know the Savior If our lives do not match up such standards then we are scattering.
Wolves succeed in the kill by scattering the sheep; if we are not gathering people to Jesus then we are Leading friends and family toward wolves that would devour their souls.
ON JESUS' SIDE
Let's resolve to be on Jesus' side; to do the things he did, and live out his life. Let's possess his actions and purpose. His hand is set to work and ours ought to be at the same task. He did good works among men and we should too. He brought redemption’s hope to people and so should we. May our actions never become a reason others do not come.
(c)Adron Dozat 3/5/10
