Is He Really Lord To You?

December 2014 – Grace & Truth Magazine

Is He Really Lord To You?

In several of the Old Testament books that are called “Prophets” (Lk. 24:27), we read a phrase or a variation repeatedly: “that you may know that I am the L ORD .” Early in and periodically during the nation of Israel’s history, Israel asserted that they would follow the Lord, recognizing Him as the One to whom they were responsible and should obey. However, usually subtly, they left the practice of obeying Him – claiming Him as Lord in name only.

Sometimes for new believers there is little knowledge of the fact that Jesus Christ, their Savior, is their Lord. We read the title, but may not recognize the principles behind it. The fact that Jesus Christ is to be both Savior and Lord in our lives was presented at His birth: “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Lk. 2:11 NASB).

The danger for believers, just as it was for Israel of old, in not recognizing the Lord for who He is in truth as well as practice, is to drift from what is right and to accept what is wrong. A common result is a lack of an unspoiled testimony for the One who laid down His life for us. The principles, or truths, of Scripture are often abandoned. Grievously, many church groups collectively have gone so far from the practical obedience of the Lordship of Christ that they already follow the ways of Israel in the time just before God removed them from their land in judgment. Obviously, we need to follow Jesus Christ as Lord if we are going to be individuals who honor Him.

Articles in this magazine present points and challenges that we might find easier to apply to other believers than to ourselves. But may we have open ears and hearts to hear what the Lord is saying to us individually, and have the willingness and courage to change our behavior in such a way that it is evident to all around that He is truly Lord of our lives. What a tremendous testimony that would be – bringing glory unto Him!

By Paul Alberts