Where Do You Stand With Jesus?

The Christian Path

The difference between being near Him and being in Him.

Where you stand with Jesus makes all the difference—it defines the distance between life and death.

Apart from Jesus

Those who stand apart from Jesus are like the walking dead—severed from the true Vine and destined to wither and perish.

"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." ~ John 15:5

Out in Front

Some walk ahead of Jesus, unsure if He’s truly behind them, yet hoping He will protect and bless their pursuits.

Turned Around, Facing Him

Others face Jesus but look past Him—seeking what He can bring into their lives rather than seeking Him. They often wait for Him to act before moving, while He waits for them to follow so He can work through them.

By His Side

Some stand beside Jesus, waiting to see what He will do. They lack faith or direction to step forward and only join when something feels exciting or spiritually stirring. Yet, when the excitement fades, they often drift away.

Behind Him

Others stand behind Jesus, pointing to Him and desiring to give God glory. Yet, they expect Him to do everything—carry them and open every door—while they remain passive. When asked to act in faith, they may falter and lose sight of Him.

In Him

Then there are those who are in Him—fully surrendered to Jesus, adopting His desires as their own. They have died to themselves and live through Him. As branches firmly rooted in the Vine, they glorify Christ and remain steadfast through trials.

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." ~ Galatians 2:20

Summary

  • Apart from Jesus: No life, no fruit, no salvation.
  • Out in Front: Pursuing their own way, hoping Jesus will follow.
  • Facing Him: Seeking His blessings more than His presence.
  • By His Side: Passive, waiting for excitement instead of faith.
  • Behind Him: Pointing to Him but unwilling to take responsibility.
  • In Him: Fully surrendered, alive, and fruitful.

"In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you." ~ John 14:20

“Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.” ~ 1 Timothy 6:12