People are transformed by encountering Jesus, not by me winning an argument.

Scripture is remarkably clear about that.

When I read the Gospels, I see Jesus continually inviting people to follow Him.

Not, “Wait. Before you follow Me, let’s make sure you’ve cleaned everything up.”

Not, “Here’s your checklist. Come back when you’ve fixed XYZ.”

Not, “Once you’ve gotten your life together, then you can come.”

Just…

“Follow Me.”

That doesn’t mean Jesus was unclear about truth.

In fact, when it came to the things He wanted to keep central, Jesus was remarkably direct.

Love God.

Love your neighbor.

Forgive.

Repent and believe.

Follow Me.

I am the Messiah.

I am the way, the truth, and the life.

These weren’t side issues to Jesus. They were the foundation.

Jesus never compromised truth, but He also didn’t make Himself a barrier to people coming to Him.

As we navigate all the issues of our day—and you know what they are, so I’ll let you fill in the blank—I think it’s worth remembering that people are transformed through an encounter with Jesus.

The Holy Spirit is remarkably good at His job.

Conviction.

Repentance.

Growth.

Sanctification.

Those belong to Him.

So I find myself asking:

Am I helping people move toward Jesus?

Or am I putting obstacles in the way?

What I know is this: I never want my judgment, my preferences, or my approach to keep someone from encountering the One who can truly transform their life.

I want to walk like Jesus, talk like Jesus, and love like Jesus.

Because the answer has never been me.

The answer has always been Jesus.

And when there is a lack—of truth, grace, love, compassion, transformation, or hope—the answer is still the same:

More Jesus.