What the Bible says about Denying the Lord
(From Forerunner Commentary)
Why does Christ have to say things like this? Because human nature is driven by the impulse that the only way to the things a person deeply desires is through self-centered, assertive, competitive concentration on getting what it wants. We all have this drive; however, individuals differ in the strength of human nature in them and the methods they employ to achieve their goals. Jesus says the self must be denied because human nature is driven by pride and covetousness.
Of course, the Bible is not urging us to court martyrdom. It is speaking of a general approach to life, of crucifying the self-centered impulses of human nature. This means subordinating a clamoring ego with its preoccupation with "I," "me," and "mine"; its concern for self-assertion; and its insistence on comfort and prestige. It is denying the self for the sake of embracing Christ's cause. To be ashamed to live this way of life is equivalent to being ashamed of Christ Himself.
John W. Ritenbaugh
The Elements of Motivation (Part Six): Eternal LifeRelated Topics: Bearing Our Cross | Competition | Denying Christ | Denying the Lord | Get Way of Life | Human Nature | Pride | Self Assertiveness | Self Centeredness | Self Denial | Taking up Cross | Way of Get
The King James Version calls their heresies damnable, implying that their words—their messages—are destructive to one's faith and relationship with God. "Denying the Lord" does not mean they deny that He lived or died or that He is God, but that their words and conduct are opposed to His fundamental nature. Their lives deny any close contact with Him.
David C. Grabbe
What Is a False Prophet?Related Topics: Apostasy | Apostasy, Process of | Damnable Heresies | Denying the Lord | Doctrinal Changes | Doctrinal Disputes | Doctrinal Problems | Doctrine | Doctrine, Importance of | False Doctrine | False Ministers/Prophets | False Teachers | Heresies, Damnable | Heresy | Relationship with God