Who Is With Christ?

Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.

Matthew 12:30 (NIV)

At school, we often encounter groups of friends who meet before and after class to discuss anything and everything. Although it seems simple and straightforward, joining a group isn't always easy. Although it's not really official or regulated, there is always a code of conduct and rules to follow to be part of the chosen group. Once you join a group, leaving to join another becomes a challenge. However, it often happens that a particular student is part of two or three groups at the same time.

If these groups are on good terms, there's no problem. But if conflict arises, that particular student becomes a traitor to these groups. They should be able to choose one of them. During His discussion with the Pharisees, who attributed the expulsion of the demon to Satan, Jesus insisted not only that they were blaspheming the Holy Spirit, but also that their accusation stemmed from what they themselves were doing to gain the people's trust: "Through whom do they cast out your disciples? Therefore, they themselves will be your judges."

Once their hidden reality is revealed, Jesus places them in a dilemma. They must then choose between the divine work of Jesus and following Him, or the work of Satan and continuing to reject Him. But we already know which they have chosen. When Jesus says, "Whoever is not with me is against me," He is not only referring to those who categorically reject Him; He is also speaking of those who, despite their faith in Him, continue to live in sin as if it were normal. Accepting Jesus is not the end of salvation, but obeying and living according to His commandments is what keeps you connected to Him.

May God's grace and peace be with you all.