Matthew 10:32 "Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge..."

"Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven; but whoever denies me before others, I also will deny before my Father in heaven" (Matthew 10:32).

Question:

It seemed a little harsh if you take it word for word; I felt there is probably an understanding of it that is more enlightening and informative.
Thank you and the very best to you.

Comment:

The scholars of the Jesus Seminar felt that this passage was not authentically a teaching of Jesus, because the situation—followers being forced to publicly disavow his teachings or face death—didn't occur until long after Jesus' earthly ministry ended. Maybe so, but I think the metaphysical point is strong and valid, if we understand that Jesus is speaking here as the Christ, the Presence of God in all of us that was the focus of his entire ministry. Once we are awakened to the Christ Presence within us, there is no turning back. We must continue to hold to our new understanding no matter how much resistance might arise. It's not about punishment; it's about the working of divine law. Choices have consequences. If we hold to our spiritual truth, that truth will express through us—into our own challenges and into the world. If we hide or deny the truth, we will be distancing ourselves from our spiritual Source (Father), choosing to return to the limited, fear-based consciousness out of which we had been lifted.   Blessings!

Rev. Ed