Introduction
In this teaching, I want to address not just married individuals but also those who are single, regardless of age. Each person's situation, whether being 15 or 50 years old, is a valuable part of our community in Christ. The focus today is on our identity as believers and how that shapes our role in transforming the world around us. As followers of Christ, we must acknowledge that we are not our own; we belong to Him and must act from this foundational understanding.
Main Points
The Essence Of Being A Follower
The essence of being a follower of Christ lies in our understanding of who we are. Ephesians 1:3-10 presents a grand vision of God’s plan to unify all things under Christ.
- We are created with purpose and called to live out our identity as those who have been adopted and redeemed through His grace.
- When we affirm that we are God’s bondservants, we acknowledge the profound truth that our lives are not our own.
- This recognition is central to our discipleship journey, as it invites us to lay down our desires and embrace His will.
- In the Christian life, surrender is not merely a one-time event; it is a daily practice of giving our lives over to God.
The Challenge Lies In Relinquishing Our
The challenge lies in relinquishing our sense of entitlement and basking in the truth that we have been bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). It’s an invitation to live sacrificially.
- To follow Him means we must relinquish our rights, our right to hold onto anger, jealousy, or bitterness towards others and replace these with grace and forgiveness, forming healthy.
- Isaiah 11:6 paints a vivid picture of harmony among creation, a reality we are moving towards as believers.
- This passage emphasizes the peace that will come when all is made new in Christ.
- For us, living in this harmony begins now.
It Challenges Us To Live In
It challenges us to live in a way that reflects God's restoring work. What we often see in the world is disarray and dysfunction. However, as we live our lives in submission to Christ, we partake in His transformative work, becoming instruments of peace in our families and communities. In our relationships, we are called to demonstrate fervent love, as indicated in 1 Peter 4:8. Believers are encouraged to love one another deeply, which can often mean serving in humility, even when it is difficult. This loving service is foundational for harmony within our families and extends to those around us.
Our Actions Speak Of Our Faith
Our actions speak of our faith; how we treat others is a testament to our submission to God’s love. Jesus, as our ultimate example, demonstrated the model of servanthood. Despite having all authority, He chose to serve by washing the feet of His disciples, teaching them that true leadership is grounded in humility and service (John 13:12-15). As we follow Christ's example, we are called to serve, not for recognition or reward, but out of love and obedience. Submission to Christ means embodying His character in our daily interactions and being willing to turn the other cheek when wronged, embodying a response of grace rather than retaliation. Transformation in our relationships takes time and deliberate effort.
I Can Personally Attest To The
I can personally attest to the struggles faced in marriage, where the first few years were tumultuous and filled with conflict. Yet, it was through surrendering to God’s guidance that we experienced healing. It starts with acknowledging our failures, asking for forgiveness, and pursuing reconciliation despite our feelings. God doesn’t just call us to salvation but to a thriving life marked by love and unity, as we renew our minds and bear with one another in love (Colossians 3:13). We must declare and live out the truth that we are commissioned by Christ. This means actively choosing to embody His values in our interactions.
Acknowledging That I Am Not My
Acknowledging that "I am not my own; I have been bought with a price" should influence everything we do, leading to lives characterized by service, humility, and a commitment to building relational harmony in the body of Christ. This lifestyle of submission not only honors God but also creates a platform for genuine transformation, impacting those around us.
Conclusion
In summary, embracing our identity as bondservants of Christ transforms how we view ourselves in relation to others. By surrendering our lives to Him, we gain the ability to cultivate harmony in our relationships and communities, fostering an environment where love prevails over discord. As we navigate our challenges, whether in marriage, friendships, or within the Church, let us carry the heart of a servant, committed to reflecting the love of Christ in all circumstances. Let this truth permeate our lives: we are not our own, and in our surrender lies the path to true peace and reconciliation.