From the very beginning of our Christian instruction we are taught to call Jesus "Lord." This term signifies one who has authority. In ancient times slaves referred to their masters as "lords," because they were in absolute subjection to them. The rulers of cities and kingdoms were often called "lords" in consequence of the power they exercised in their domains. Sarah is said to have called Abraham "lord" as she obeyed his leadership of their home, (I Pet. 3:6). In doing this she is used as a model for Christian women, whom God wills to be in subjection to their husbands, (I Pet. 3:1).
When the word "lord" is applied to Jesus, the idea of power and authority assumes superior proportion. Jesus is said to be the "Lord of lords and King of kings," (Rev. 17:14). This means that He holds supreme power over everyone else who claims power as a lord and that He has absolute authority as THE KING over all others invested with the authority of kingship. Jesus declared that "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me," (Mat. 28:18). Whenever anyone refers to Jesus as "lord," therefore, he ought to have clearly in view His complete power over both the spiritual and material worlds. Also, he should bring his life into harmony with that infinite power by subjecting both mind and conduct to the divine will expressed within the context of that power.
As He looked forward through the generations of the Christian Age, however, Jesus saw that an incongruity would develop between disciples calling Him "Lord" and their obedience in conformity therewith. Through thoughtless usage the word has lost its meaning and is hardly more than an empty title. Like the "mac" in MacDonald, the "O" in O'Neil, and the "ham" in Graham, the significance of the word "Lord" in Lord Jesus Christ has disappeared in the mists of bygone ages. Those who would never wear His name in religion still call Him, Lord Jesus; yet, they will not subject themselves to His power and authority.
In His sermon in Luke 6, from which the text above is taken, Jesus sets guidelines for Christian living that are very challenging. We who consider ourselves His disciples and call Him "Lord" would do well to think about these instructions and determine whether our use of that title is meaningful or meaningless. Do we hunger for the spiritual food of God's revelation as much as for the fine food in elegant restaurants? (v.21) Do we adapt our behavior and lifestyle to fit the fashion of society, or do we reject the part of it that is ungodly and then endure ridicule for nonconformity? (vs. 22-23) Do we retaliate with cruel speech and hateful actions against those who make themselves our enemies, or do we repay evil with lovingkindness and supplications on their behalf? (vs. 27-36) Are we keen critics of everyone about us as though our perceptions of life are unassailable, or do we put ourselves under the microscope to discover our own flaws? (vs. 37-45)
It is so easy for us to circumscribe a small part of the gospel, exalt it as paramount, and condemn those who do not share our myopic vision. From that small world we confidently call Jesus "Lord" and think we have submitted to His authority. But what about the things He taught us so explicitly in Luk. 6:20-46 that are summarized in the preceding paragraph (above)? It takes no special perception to know that most of us who call Jesus "Lord" fall far, far short of conducting ourselves by these instructions of Jesus. His question, "Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I tell you?,"should humble us as we remind ourselves of it each day, For in that humility we will be led by an ongoing repentance to conform our lives ever closer to the pattern that is "the way of the Lord."
