Responding to Difficult Doctrine

In the gospels, we read of Jesus' wonderful parables, grand sermons, weighty discourses, and masterful illustrations. We also come across his hard sayings and difficult teachings. We know we should not listen just to the words of Christ that we like, nor ignore the ones we find challenging to hear. We also know we ought to receive them all as the expression of his love, wisdom, and grace to us. But, the fact remains: Jesus' words can be very difficult. How then should we respond to them? We should take them to heart and believe them so that we can treasure Christ as his true disciples.