Lie #3: Jesus Is Just an Inspiration
Have you ever thought, “I really admire Jesus—He inspires me to live better”?
Many people put Jesus in the same category as other moral leaders or heroes. But if Jesus is only an inspiring figure, then we’ve missed who He really is.
The Bible tells the story of a man with a shriveled hand who was in the synagogue on the Sabbath. The religious leaders were watching Jesus closely, hoping to catch Him in a mistake. Jesus could have kept quiet, but instead He revealed both His compassion and His authority:
➤ “He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.” (Mark 3:5)
If Jesus were just an “inspiring example,” the story might end with admiration. But Jesus went further—He confronted hypocrisy,
displayed the power of God,
and then demanded a response.
Here’s the truth: Jesus is not content to merely inspire us. He came to save us.
➤ “Jesus is not content to be admired from a distance. He wants to be worshiped, trusted, and followed.” – J. Mack Stiles
- Jesus Demands a Response – “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15)
- Jesus Gives New Life – “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25)
Inspiration might stir us for a moment, but transformation through Christ changes us forever.
Reflection
When have you admired Jesus as an example but struggled to surrender to Him as Lord?
How does His healing in Mark 3 show both His compassion and His authority?
Which truth speaks to you most today: Jesus demands a response, or Jesus gives new life?
A Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus, forgive me for settling for admiration when You deserve my worship and adoration. You are not just my example—you are my Savior and Lord. Help me to trust and follow You fully. Amen.