Do you see salvation as a binary state, with the sheep on one side and the goats on the other? You could liken this to academic classes that are based on the pass/fail system. But most academic work is based on a scale of grades, so there are several levels of performance. What grade would you expect to get on a test of basic Christian doctrine? Do you think that such a test will be required for the entrance into the Kingdom of God? What grade would you expect to get on being kind to the least of these? What grade would you get on not causing offenses or causing little ones to stumble?

Have you ever worked behind the scenes? This is a common phrase borrowed from stage productions, in which the actors are in front of the scenes on stage, but much of the real work goes on behind the scenes. Some positions lend themselves to being highly visible, and others do not. If you have ever served in this way you know that it doesn’t involve much recognition or appreciation, even if it is important. Do you feel slighted and neglected because of this? You are in good company. How would you describe my influence in the world?

Are you afraid of being vulnerable? Do you avoid vulnerability as an experience of weakness? The alternative is to be defended. This provides you a hedge against risk and exposure. This may give you a sense of security against attack, but what else does it defend you from? Vulnerability is necessary for growth and transformation. If you avoid it you are defending yourself against your own progress. Do you see vulnerability as an attractive quality in other people or as weakness? Do you find defensiveness as an attractive quality in others?

Did you choose to follow me? Or did I choose you? Who chose whom? You pursue your faith with diligence and intention, as well you should. You present the message of the gospel as if your audience had the option to say yes or no. But was it your idea to start down this path, or were you chosen for it? This would appear to be a true dichotomy, but could both aspects be true at once?  In the military a commander can give orders to his troops as he wishes, but in some cases he will ask for volunteers. He will typically choose those who step forward to volunteer.