Discipleship Considered (Continued)





Motivation

In the matter of Christian character we soon encounter a difficulty. Christ-like character is normally the result of overcoming difficulties and trials. Paul wrote: "we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character" (Rom.5:3,4) In view of this, motivation is going to be a problem. The life that is set before us is not easy. Jesus constantly cautioned His followers that they would be faced with difficulties and the closer they walked with Him, the more persecution and problems they would face. Paul, who was called to leadership, in defending himself against opponents, lists the experiences he had to survive in his calling.

"Are they ministers of Christ - I speak as a fool - I am more: in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness - besides the other things, what comes upon me daily; my deep concern for all the churches" (2 Cor. 11:23-28).

His contention was that these were part and parcel of his calling. He was not called to a life of ease. These things may have changed now, and these forms of persecution have been outlawed in civilised communities, but we must state very clearly, the Christian life is beset with difficulties, and if we are not resolute and motivated, we will end up paddling around in some back-water getting nowhere.

So where is this motivation going to come from. The great motivator for the human condition is love. I realise this is a somewhat ethereal quality - often confused with human appetites - but Biblical love is real and a great motivator. Paul, in appealing to the Corinthians said, "the love of Christ compels us" (2 Cor.5:14). Christians who make a difference will seek to live this life to the glory of God because they are responding to love; they are motivated by the love of God. Jesus Himself said, "If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15). The practical outworking of a love for Christ is a life lived under His control.