I have never seen a man more audacious and unconventional than Jesus Christ. With almost every encounter with the leaders and ‘teachers’ of His time, he appeared to intentionally pull down highly revered and enshrined traditions of his people. Little wonder the people stopped at nothing to eliminate him. His claim of being the Messiah didn’t even help matters. He neither looked nor acted like anything their imagination of a Messiah should be.

Jesus’s problem wasn’t with the people as much as it was with their disrespect for the law of God. He loved the people but not their acts. The people had become quite skilled in twisting and turning every part of the law to drive their personal ambitions. Worst still, they lived nothing like the law they so easily reeled out for others to follow and obey.

Truth was, Jesus didn’t come to earth to gain cheap popularity. He had a mission to accomplish. Upsetting existing man-made systems and traditions wasn’t a big deal for Him. He knew the people, probably more than they knew themselves. Explaining why he so easily thwarted every trick and stunts they tried to pull on Him.

Jesus was settled in His identity, mission and purpose. He knew that seeking a consensus or validation would ultimately deter Him from doing the unpopular things required to deliver on His mandate. Did the people think Jesus was arrogant and not humble? Your guess is as good as mine.

Do you want to accomplish your God-given purpose in God’s way? Stop seeking cheap popularity. And definitely, stop looking for validation from wrong quarters.

Be settled in your purpose, walk closely with the Holy Spirit, be full of faith, patience and endurance. And be vigilant to identify your God-sent helpers as well as agents on a contrary and opposing mission ❤