The Wheel Illustration (Part 2)

In the Navigator wheel illustration, the wheel's central hub reminds us of the centrality of Jesus in the life of believers. Jesus is the object of our faith according to His gospel. Along the path of discipleship, He is the One we follow as we deny ourselves and carry our cross daily. We fix our eyes upon Him as He is the author and perfecter of our faith. So as we spiritually mature as disciples of Jesus, we grow in Christ-centeredness and correspondingly die to our fleshly tendency toward selfishness and pride.

The next element of the wheel illustration is the four spokes radiating from this central hub. Two vertical spokes describe our relationship with God, and two horizontal spokes illustrate our relationship with people. Let’s examine one of the vertical spokes labeled the Word. The Word is the revealed Word of God revealed in Scripture. Scripture is vital for believers. Jesus says, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). Peter confirms this by writing, “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation” (1 Peter 2:2). Therefore, it is important for believers to read, study, and meditate on Scripture. Scripture is the primary means by which we know who God is and what He has done, especially in His plan of redemption for us in His gospel.

The first two components of the wheel illustration instruct us so well. How vital for new believers to grow in Christ-centeredness and the Scripture. And this is relevant not only for new believers but even the mature. Mature believers need constant reminders of these basic biblical principles. And the wheel illustration can help us recall the hub and spoke and the association of Christ the center and Scripture. Let us be so reminded for our good and His glory!