The Journey Is the Destination
A troubling pattern is sometimes seen among believers who come to understand the gospel of grace. Though the message teaches that salvation is a free gift through Christ, some respond by relaxing their moral standards. Instead of becoming more Christlike, they drift into carelessness, giving critics cause to question whether the gospel transforms lives.
Some may abandon external formalities once tied to legalism—such as strict dress codes or rigid Sabbath practices. While some of these rules were based more on tradition than true spirituality, there’s also a danger in going too far, treating Christian freedom as license to indulge self.
Understanding the Purpose of Salvation
Many view salvation as a future reward—something earned by keeping commandments. The gospel, however, teaches that salvation is already given to those who receive Christ. But if salvation is already possessed, what motive remains for self-denial or moral effort?
For some, the desire for Jesus ends once salvation is secured. Their focus was salvation—not Christ Himself. This thinking causes a lack of motivation to live righteously once the goal seems reached.
But the gospel points to something far deeper. In John 14:21, Jesus promises, “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me... and I will manifest Myself to him.” In verse 23, He adds, “We will come to him and make Our home with him.”
These verses point to a relationship. Obedience flows not from obligation but from love—a desire to be with Christ. True love is not only selfless concern but also longing for communion. Jesus speaks of personal connection, not general duty.
From Commandments to Relationship
Jesus used three terms: commandments, words, and voice. Commandments are broad and universal. Words, such as those recorded in the Gospels, are more specific. But His voice—spoken to the heart—is personal. This is how He leads His people under the New Covenant: not just by laws written in stone, but by His Spirit, moment by moment (Isaiah 30:21).
Loving Christ means listening and responding to Him daily. It is not a distant, rule-based faith but a living relationship. God's presence becomes a constant, shaping every thought and action.
The Goal Is Christ
For some, the Christian life is about reaching heaven or achieving moral perfection. But if the ultimate goal is Christ Himself, then the journey becomes the destination. To walk with Him now is to have already arrived. Success is defined not by external accomplishments but by ongoing fellowship with Christ.
When Christ is the aim, even repeated failures are opportunities for deeper connection. But if success comes apart from Him, it is loss. He is the reward. Eternal life is not a distant future—it begins in knowing Him (John 17:3).
God's Love Is Practical
God's love may include correction, but always with purpose. His dealings are based on what is best for His children. When Naaman, the Syrian general, asked forgiveness for bowing in a pagan temple, Elisha told him, “Go in peace” (2 Kings 5:19). God accepted Naaman’s limited understanding, recognizing the sincerity of his heart.
God deals with each person personally. He loves all, but He walks closest with those who invite Him in and respond to His voice. The closer the relationship, the deeper the joy.
Conclusion: True Christianity
True Christianity is not about strict rule-keeping or institutional membership. It is not about information alone, but transformation through relationship. Christ promised to reveal Himself not just to the world, but to individuals who love and obey Him. The one who listens to His voice will experience His presence daily.
The Christian life is not a path leading to Christ at the end—it is walking with Him now. To remain with Christ is to have succeeded. The journey itself is the destination.