In the journey of faith, maintaining clarity of focus is crucial. Christians often assert their allegiance to the Bible, a declaration I myself have made in the past. It’s a statement intended to convey devotion rather than mere nominal Christianity. Recently, however, I found myself pondering a fundamental question: “Do I follow the Bible or do I follow Jesus Christ?” While this may initially appear to be a matter of semantics, the distinction carries profound implications for our spiritual development.

In many discussions and debates, particularly with those of different faiths or belief systems, the conversation often devolves into a quagmire of misunderstanding and name-calling. This begs the question: Are we truly conveying our message effectively? More importantly, are we focusing on the right thing?

The truth is, the Bible and Jesus Christ are not synonymous. The Bible serves as a vital guidebook, offering insights into God’s character, His will, and the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. However, it is not an end in itself; it is a means to an end — that end being a deeper relationship with Christ.

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of singular devotion when He said, “You cannot serve two masters.” He is the head of the Church, and as Christians, we are called to emulate Him. In fact, the very term “Christian” (christianos) means “little Christ” in Greek, underscoring our identity and purpose.

By shifting our language to emphasize following Jesus rather than merely adhering to the Bible, we invite a subtle yet profound change in perspective. It not only affects how we respond to challenges and trials but also how others perceive us. When we declare our allegiance to Christ, the focus shifts from debates about the Bible’s interpretation to the transformative power of His teachings and example.

“Simply put, they loved me with a love so compelling that I was powerless to resist it.” – Liz Curtis Higgs

Some may raise objections, arguing that the Bible is our primary source of knowledge about God and Jesus. While this is undeniably true, it is also crucial to recognize the inherent risk of misinterpretation. The diversity of theological interpretations across denominations underscores this point. However, this shouldn’t instill fear but rather encourage a prioritization of first things first — placing Christ at the forefront of our lives and faith.

In acknowledging Jesus as our ultimate example and the head of the Church, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of His teachings and a more profound connection to Him. As we make this shift in focus, we may find that our behavior changes, aligning more closely with the values and principles exemplified by Christ. Moreover, we may notice a shift in how others interact with us, as our commitment to following Jesus transcends theological debates and theological differences.

From this day forward, let us be unequivocal in our declaration: we are followers of Christ. Let us strive to keep first things first, allowing His teachings and example to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. In doing so, we embark on a journey of spiritual growth that transforms not only ourselves but also the world around us.

Reflection

• How has your understanding of your faith evolved over time, especially in terms of whether you prioritize following the Bible or following Jesus Christ?
• In your experience, how has emphasizing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your daily life and interactions with others?
• What practical steps can individuals take to shift their focus from merely studying the Bible to actively following Jesus Christ in their everyday lives?

Resources

What Does it Mean to Be a ‘Little Christ’? https://www.christianity.com/wiki/how-to-be-a-christian/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-little-christ.html