* Two Out of Three

So why do you call me 'Lord' when you won't obey me? But all those who come and listen and obey me are like a man who builds a house on a strong foundation and upon the underlying rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against the house, it stands firm, for it is strongly built. But those who listen and don't obey are like a man who builds a house without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it crumbles into a heap of ruins.
Luke 6:46-49 The Living Bible

We don't like to lose. How many times have you said, "Okay, best two outta three?" When we do, about 1% of the time, we're showing mercy on the opponent who lost the first time (usually a child), but 99% of the time, it's because WE lost the first time and we don't like to lose.

As a nation, we think two out of three is good enough. Tennis matches are comprised of three sets. Two out of three wins. Any competition where more than one game is played, it's often the best two out of three. Elections, government ordinances, proposals are all won or lost by a two-thirds vote. Two-thirds is considered a majority - enough to win. And as a general rule of thumb, we think doing enough is good.

What's my point?

Two out of three is NOT enough in God's government. I'm not into numerology or anything like it, but understand what I'm about to say. Three represents completion in the Word of God. On the third day... Father, Son and Holy Spirit, these three are one... just a couple of examples. There are many others you will find when you study it out.

In God's kingdom, we don't win with two out of three. Our Scripture today clearly defines three - all those who (1) come and (2) listen and (3) obey... We want to come and listen, but we don't know about that obey thing. It's not convenient. That takes commitment and usually affects our finances or cuts into our leisure time. 

Isn't it enough that I come to church and listen?
No, it's not.

Jesus said, So why do you call me 'Lord' when you won't obey me? We don't have the right to call Him Lord if we don't obey. So... best two outta three? You're going down...

It's all or nothing. Ask Jesus.

Prayer:

Father,
In a day and age when enough is considered good, please redirect our values. Birth and mature in us Your Kingdom principles. We know You gave all for us and we praise You for it and give You honor and glory. We want to give You all. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.