John 20-21 | The Simplicity of Christianity

We make it very complicated. Confused by our own sin, the world's ideas, and the devil's incessant lies, we forget the amazing simplicity of the gospel.

Jesus summarized it often with just two words. In John 21, with His fiesty, beloved fisherman, he comes to the close of his three years of training with Peter the same way He began. After challenging Him about the most important thing ("Do you love me?) and giving him some practical instructions for his particular ministry to take care of His sheep, He gives Peter the two words that would carry him and direct him till death. A death, by the way, that John said would be Peter’s last means of glorifying God in John 21:19:

"Follow Me.”

It was simple and it was enough. Just keep following me. If you love Him, you will pursue Him and stay close and this affection will be the driving force to obedience. If you love Him enough you will follow Him explicitly, doing all He asks and going wherever He directs. And as you follow Him, He will lead you to care for those that He loves.

Look into the eyes of Christ now, for He gives you the same command. “Do you love Me? Then follow Me and care for others!”

And He is inviting you to that loving, faithful purpose right now.

Father, thank You for the simplicity of knowing You. Simplicity that makes Your life accessible to everyone. Help me fall in love with You all over again right now. Let my passion for You drive my obedience … and let that obedience result in a life of serving the people You love.