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Jesus Never Said

News Letter Journal - Staff Photo -
By
Dean Butler

There’s something powerful about the words of Jesus—they bring life, truth, and clarity to a world filled with confusion. But sometimes, what Jesus didn’t say can teach us just as much as what He did. Over the years, misconceptions about faith have crept into our minds and hearts, creating barriers where Jesus intended freedom.

Think about it: how often do we hold ourselves to impossible standards or shrink back from God because we feel unworthy? How many times have we assumed that following Christ means life will be easy, or that we need to clean ourselves up before we approach Him? These ideas are nowhere to be found in Scripture, yet they can weigh us down like heavy chains.

Today, we’re going to dispel some of those misconceptions by focusing on what Jesus never said. Each of these ideas is a reminder that His truth is better, His grace is bigger, and His love is deeper than we often realize. Let’s dive in.

 

1. "Jesus never said, 'Faith is supposed to be easy.'"

“In the world you will have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Jesus was clear that faith would involve challenges. He didn’t promise a life free of difficulties but assured us that He has overcome them. Faith calls us to trust Him through the valleys, even when the road seems impossible. The difficulties we face don’t mean we’re failing in our walk with God; they’re an opportunity to lean into His strength and grow in perseverance.

 

2. "Jesus never said, 'Your comfort is my top priority.'"

“If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23)

Comfort wasn’t part of the deal when Jesus called His disciples. He didn’t sugarcoat the cost of following Him—it meant self-denial and a willingness to surrender everything. But in giving up worldly comfort, we gain something far greater: the joy of walking in His purpose and the promise of eternal life.

 

3. "Jesus never said, 'Following me means you won't face challenges.'"

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10)

Jesus prepared His followers for the reality of persecution and hardship. Far from avoiding trials, He taught that faith would sometimes mean standing firm in the face of opposition. But those challenges are not without purpose—they refine us, deepen our dependence on God, and remind us of the eternal reward awaiting those who remain faithful.

 

4. "Jesus never said, 'Only those who have it all together can serve me.'"

“It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mark 2:17)

The people Jesus called to follow Him were far from perfect. From fishermen to tax collectors to zealots, He chose the broken and the outcast to carry His message. Jesus isn’t looking for perfect people; He’s looking for willing hearts. He meets us in our mess and equips us to do His work, not by our strength but by His power.

 

5. "Jesus never said, 'I'll leave you alone to figure things out.'"

“And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Jesus promised that we would never walk this journey alone. He sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper, counselor, and guide. When we face uncertainty or feel unequipped, we can rest in the assurance that He is with us, providing wisdom and strength for every step of the way.

 

6. "Jesus never said, 'You have to fix yourself before you come to me.'"

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Jesus’ invitation to follow Him doesn’t come with prerequisites. He calls the weary, the broken, and the lost to come just as they are. It’s not about fixing ourselves first—it’s about trusting Him to heal, restore, and transform us. When we bring our burdens to Him, He replaces them with His peace and rest.

As we reflect on these truths, we’re reminded that Jesus’ message is one of grace, love, and truth. He doesn’t burden us with impossible expectations or demand perfection. Instead, He calls us to trust Him, lean on Him, and follow Him—no matter where we are in life.

When we let go of the misconceptions about what Jesus requires, we’re free to experience the fullness of His grace. He never promised an easy road, but He promised to walk it with us, to guide us, and to give us strength. The words of Jesus bring life and hope, and His invitation is simple: Come as you are.

Will you trust Him today?

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“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.”

I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.

If you have any comments, questions, or testimonies to share, I would love to hear from you! Please reach out at: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. (1 Timothy 1:12)

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