Jesus Christ, in saying these words, had it all backwards according to man’s
thinking. Most people revel in getting attention. Most want to be recognized
and idolized. It is what they crave in their thinking. We laud those who rise
up by their own means.
While the world promotes “do your own thing” or “I did it my way,”
Jesus Christ did it the Father’s way!
In the context of John 5:41 “I receive not honor from men,” Jesus
Christ is making an important point for us to understand so our believing will
be increased.
John 5:42-44:
But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.
I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall
come in his own name, him ye will receive.
How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the
honour that cometh from God only?
Isn’t it so typical of how man functions, to be attracted to some gifted
speaker or movie stars and yet when someone comes in the Father’s name it is
no big deal. No wonder for many their believing is anemic, they honor others
instead of the things from God. As believers we do not preach ourselves but
Christ Jesus the Lord.
II Corinthians 4:5 and 6:
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your
servants for Jesus’ sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in
our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of
God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Why preach ourselves when we have someone much more worthy to share. Christ
did not do his own thing; and Paul didn’t do his own thing; and we surely
should not do our own thing. As ambassadors of the lord Jesus Christ we speak
for him.
II Corinthians 5:18-20:
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by
Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not
imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of
reconciliation.
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you
by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.
May we honor Him by speaking His Word boldly.
