Sacrifice: (a) destruction or surrender of something for the sake of something else (b) an act of offering to Deity something precious.
Many times we have choices in life. Follow Jesus and give up something for Him or do what I want! God always provides an escape when we are tempted to not follow Him (1 Corinthians 10:13). But that escape, many times, takes sacrifice on our part. We have to give up something precious for something even more important. Sacrifice is what God expects from His children. If you are going through life, and you have chances to choose Jesus and have not, have you thought about your situation? Do you realize you are not offering up spiritual sacrifices to Him (1 Peter 2:5, 2 Timothy 3:12)?
1. Example of the Rich Young Ruler
Look at the story of the Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-27). He was not willing to give up the one thing that was his stumbling block. It was not enough to obey the commands that came easy to him. He was commanded to sell his riches, give to the poor, and follow Jesus. But he could not sacrifice his riches for Jesus. Since he could not make the sacrifice Jesus required, he also could not follow Him.
2. Example of the Apostle Paul
By contrast, look what Paul gave up. Probably a high position in Jewish society, many friends, and probably family. He spent a good deal of time constantly teaching his Jewish nation, often times facing failure. It would have been a temptation to give up being a Christian to make family and friends happy and to regain his social position. Twice he said he would go to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46, 18:6), but he still tried teaching Jews, even to the end (Acts 28:21-31). The reason for this of course, is Paul would rather please God and sacrifice his will to God's Will (Philippians 3:3-21).
3. Is Baptism a Stumbling Block?
Why is baptism a stumbling block? Jesus commands it. Are traditions, family, and friends more important than obeying the Lord? Yes, it will be a sacrifice, but it will be worth it (Romans 8:18, Mark 10:28-31, Matthew 10:32-39)! Paul obeyed and was baptized to wash away his sins (Acts 22:16), even though the jews were against it. Why not be like Paul and obey God? Maybe God wants you to save your friends and family; by setting a good example!
4. Is Sin a Stumbling Block?
Jesus wants our sacrifice by denying our self and our sinful ways (Matthew 16:24-26, Titus 2:11-14).
5. Conclusion
Have you sacrificed your life for the Lord (Galatians 2:20, Romans 12:1-2)? Have you obeyed His will? Examine the scriptures. Think about what we have said. If it is true hold to it and obey it (1 Corinthians 11:1). We hope to see you next time on "Speaking the Truth in Love".