Our faith is founded not in our own belief, but in the unwavering truth of the Word of God. As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate Him (Ephesians 5:1). This includes exercising spiritual discernment, just as He did, so that we do not unknowingly test God.
Since Yeshua (Jesus) is the living Word of God (John 1:1), His life and teachings become the ultimate Standard by which we measure all things. The Word of God is supreme above all. Therefore, every teaching and experience must be tested against this Standard to guard against deception (1 John 4:1).
It is no surprise, then, that Christ is often dishonored. As the Son of God and the Husband of the Church, He is met with disrespect, self-reliance, partisanship, and a rejection of His call to sacrificial love. Many reject His "cup of suffering" and fail to labor faithfully in a harvest that is plentiful but where the laborers are few (Matthew 9:37). His suffering extended beyond the cross, continuing even today as His Church faces hardship and indifference.
At the heart of Yeshua’s mission are two defining loves: His love for the Father and His love for humanity. This was demonstrated by obedience to the Father and His unwavering commitment to suffer for His Church—a commitment that remains active even now. Consequently, anyone who refuses this cup of suffering ultimately rejects Him and the salvation He offers. We see this in the betrayal of Judas, who did not repent, and the denial of Peter, who was restored through repentance. The path of discipleship requires taking up our cross and following Him daily (Matthew 16:24).