Loving Christ

They said to him, "We were not born of sexual immorality. We have one Father—even God." Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. - John 8:41b-43

The Jews demonstrated hate-motivated behavior towards Jesus, which Jesus concludes, comes from not believing in God. Loving Jesus is one of the fruits of being a child of God, and the Jews were recognized by their fruits.

You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? - Matthew 7:16

Do you love Jesus? To love Jesus is to treasure Him above all things. As Luke records, 

"No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will bedevoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." - Luke 16:13

How far are you willing to go to follow Jesus? The disciple of Jesus must be willing to give up anything and everything, even their own life, in service to Him. 

Dear Church, as God demonstrated His love for you by saving you through His Son Jesus Christ, 

"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." - Colossians 3:2

Let go of what's holding you back from following Christ.