Making Jesus Your Lord

The following series is based on a book written by Dr. Jeremy Ballard, “The Lordship of Jesus Christ.” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook) and Google Play (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work they are doing.

Previously, we’ve established an essential truth: Jesus is Lord. But acknowledging His lordship is only the beginning. The real question we must all answer is this: Have I made Jesus the Lord of my life? This article invites you on a deeply personal journey—a transformative decision to place Jesus not just in your theology, but on the throne of your heart.

A Heartfelt Commitment, Not Just Words

Embracing Jesus as Lord is more than religious talk or doctrinal agreement. It’s a radical reordering of priorities, a surrender of self-rule to the supreme rule of Christ. It challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths: Do I cling to my desires more than I cling to Jesus? Do I say “Lord” but live like I’m in charge?

True lordship doesn’t leave room for compartmentalization. It means that every part of our lives—relationships, finances, dreams, time—belongs to Him. Ignoring Jesus’ claim as Lord is not neutrality—it is rejection. But to embrace Him fully is to step into a life of purpose, joy, and transformation.

Confess and Believe

Romans 10:9 makes it clear, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

The ABCs of faith—Accept, Believe, Confess—help lay the foundation:

• Accept Jesus into your life. This is more than inviting Him in; it’s welcoming Him as Lord and Savior, giving Him the keys and ownership.
• Believe not just in His existence, but in His divine identity and saving work. Belief means trust. If Jesus is who He says He is—perfect, all-knowing, all-loving—then He is more than worthy of our full trust.
• Confess Him as Lord. This is not just saying words—it’s a personal declaration that aligns your life under His rule. It’s both private faith and public allegiance.

The goal of this confession is not ritual—it’s relationship. When we accept, believe, and confess, we are opening the door to a living, breathing walk with Jesus.

Confronting the “No, Lord” Mentality

In Acts 10, Peter says something paradoxical, “No, Lord…”

Those two words don’t belong together. If He is Lord, the answer can never be “No.” Yet how often do we echo Peter’s hesitation? We trust Jesus in some areas but keep others off-limits—our future, our money, our forgiveness, our comfort zones.

Jesus addressed this duplicity directly in Luke 6:46, “Now why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”

If Jesus is truly Lord, then our obedience must match our confession. Lordship demands submission. It may not always make sense from our limited view, but as Peter learned, God’s ways are higher—and better.

If You Love Him, Obey Him

John 14:15 says, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

Love and obedience are not separate paths—they’re intertwined. Wiersbe once wrote that there are three motivations for obedience:

• The slave obeys because he has to.
• The employee obeys because he needs to.
• But the Christian obeys because he wants to—out of love.

When we love Jesus, obeying Him is not a burden—it’s a joy. We want to honor Him. We long to follow His wisdom. We understand that His commands are for our good, guiding us into abundant life.

Be Perfect – Growing Toward Christlikeness

Jesus said in Matthew 5:48, “Therefore you shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

This isn’t about flawless performance. It’s about spiritual maturity—an intentional journey of aligning your heart and life with Christ’s. As Deuteronomy 5:32-33 emphasizes, this path of obedience leads to life, blessing, and peace.

Holiness is not outdated. It’s God’s design. The Mosaic Law emphasized it, Jesus exemplified it, and we are called to grow in it—reflecting His character in how we live.

Jesus Will Change Your Life

2 Corinthians 5:17 promises, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”

Making Jesus your Lord isn’t a superficial makeover. It’s a complete transformation. Jesus doesn’t just improve your old life—He gives you a new one.

The Journey of Transformation:

• Changed Relationships – We love and forgive like Jesus.
• Renewed Attitudes – We become humble, servant-hearted people.
• Transformed Behaviors – Our actions reflect integrity, kindness, and patience.
• Rediscovered Purpose – We live to glorify God, not just chase personal success.

Continuous Growth:

This journey isn’t instant. It’s daily. It’s marked by repentance, reflection, and renewal. We grow closer to Jesus as we walk with Him, lean into His Word, and follow His Spirit’s leading.

Application

If you haven’t yet made Jesus your Lord, today is the perfect time. Don’t delay. Here’s how to begin:

• Confess and Believe – Romans 10:9-10. Confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection.
• Surrender Your Life – Lay down your will. Let Jesus guide your steps.
• Follow His Teachings – Read His Word. Seek community. Grow in understanding.
• Live Out Your Faith – Let your life be a living testimony of obedience and love.
• Seek Ongoing Transformation – Let the Holy Spirit shape you day by day into Christlikeness.

Making Jesus your Lord isn’t a religious checkbox. It’s a radical, lifelong commitment that will change your heart, reorder your priorities, and transform your entire life. Jesus isn’t just asking for your Sundays or your silent prayers—He’s asking for everything.

But in return, He offers everything. Purpose. Peace. Joy. Eternal life. A relationship with the King of kings.

So, what will your answer be?

• “No, Lord.”
• “Yes, Lord.”

Join us next time as we discuss how to live for Jesus.