7 Things Jesus Didn’t Say

Through the years famous quotes, pious platitudes, or proverbial idioms have been attributed to either Jesus or Bible writers that are just plain false.

For instance neither Jesus nor Bible writers ever said…

…Cleanliness is next to godliness.
…Money is the root of all evil.
…This, too, shall pass.
…God works in mysterious ways.
…God will not give you more than you can handle.
…God helps those who help themselves.

We were reminded of this recently by an article from Christianity.com written by Britt Mooney, who shared things Jesus never said. Here are they with a few thoughts of our own.

#1 Follow Your Heart.

This is a common platitude, but Jesus never said it. He did say, “Where your treasure is there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21).

Actually the Bible warns that our heart can deceive us (Jer. 17:9). Instead of following our heart, Jesus often said, “Follow Me” (Matt. 4:19; 8:22; 16:24). Our emotions are fleeting and fickle. They can lead us astray. Following Jesus will shape your heart into the Divine feelings He desires.

#2 Be True to Yourself.

In a “me-first” culture that boasts about the virtues of individualism, Jesus said if you want to follow Him you must “deny yourself” (Lk. 9:23). Living a Christ-centered life requires a radical self-denial. A complete surrender. And being true to Him. His Word. And His commandments.

#3 Believe in Yourself.

While pop culture lauds the value of believing in one’s self, Jesus reminds us that another kind of faith is more important. Jesus calls us to believe in Him and in the Father (Jn. 14:1). To the apostles Jesus exhorted, “Have faith in God” (Mk.11:22). And to his friends Mary and Martha, Jesus affirmed, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die” (Jn. 11:25-26).

#4 Live Your Truth

We constantly hear statements about “my truth” and “your truth.” Our culture considers Truth subjective and falsely affirms “There are no absolutes.”

On the contrary Jesus said, “I am the Truth.” He’s the essence and embodiment of all Truth (Jn. 14:6). His Truth has been revealed and written down and is identified as “the word of Truth (Col. 1:5) and “the truth of the gospel” (Gal. 2:14). It is that Truth that we are called to obey and to live (1Pet. 1:22).

#5 Do What Makes You Happy.

In his keynote address at the 1992 Florida College Lectures the late Bob Owen referred to pursuing happiness as a part of “The Great American Fairytale.” He observed that people think more possessions means greater happiness. And they feel a person is abnormal unless constantly happy.

Happiness is often circumstantial. It’s akin to “hap” which means “chance.” And it’s based on outward prosperity and prospects that can be temporary and fleeting.

Instead Jesus calls us to find the fullness of joy in Him (Jn. 15:11). It is the “joy of faith” that is internal and can experience peace regardless of life’s circumstances and can find solace even in the midst of suffering.

#6 Everyone goes to Heaven.

Universalism purports that everyone will be saved. We can’t conceive of someone being lost. Yet, like the old African American spiritual that says, “Everybody Talkin’ ‘Bout Heaven Ain’t Goin’ There,” Jesus actually said that only a few would walk the straight and narrow way that leads to eternal life (Matt. 7:13-14).

Furthermore, Jesus implored, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able” (Lk.13:24).

#7 Follow Jesus and You Won’t Have Any Trouble

While following Jesus provides many wonderful spiritual blessings, He never promised that the Christian life would be one of ease without any trials or troubles. Unfortunately, some health and wealth prosperity preachers imply that coming to Jesus will solve all your problems and provide a comfortable life.

However, to the disciples Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (Jn. 16:33).

In fact, the world may hate us and persecute Christians, but in Christ we have help, hope, and the promise He will sustain us and reward us eternally.

If you want to know what Jesus said, read the biographies of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Read the letters of the inspired writers to whom Jesus revealed His will through the Holy Spirit.

Don’t rely on myths and misinformation. As the Father said to Peter, James and John on the Galilean mountain top when Jesus was transfigured before them, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him (Matt. 17:5).

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman