LIVING A LIFE FOR CHRIST

Living a Life for Christ: A Biblical Perspective on Devotion and Discipleship

Introduction Living a life for Christ is the ultimate call for every Christian. It encompasses devotion to God, loving others, and bearing witness to the gospel through our actions and words. Throughout Scripture, we are instructed to model our lives after Christ’s example and teachings. This article explores the biblical principles of living for Christ, providing scriptural references, theological commentary, practical examples, and guidance on how to align our lives with God’s will.

1. Understanding the Call to Discipleship

A foundational truth in Christianity is that every believer is called to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Discipleship involves more than simply professing faith; it requires a lifestyle that reflects Christ’s teachings and character. Jesus Himself called His followers to take up their cross daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23). This means surrendering personal ambitions, worldly desires, and even comfort, in exchange for a life fully committed to God’s will.

Scriptural Reference:

  • Luke 9:23“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
  • Matthew 16:24“Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’”

Commentary:

According to theologian John Stott, the call to discipleship involves the complete submission of one’s life to Christ’s lordship. It’s a radical call that demands personal sacrifice and transformation. The Christian life is not about fulfilling personal desires but about living for the glory of God.

2. Living According to Christ’s Example

Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of how to live a life fully dedicated to God. His life on earth exemplified perfect obedience, humility, compassion, and service. As Christians, we are called to imitate Christ in all aspects of our lives, whether in our interactions with others, our work ethic, or our devotion to God.

Scriptural Reference:

  • 1 Peter 2:21“For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.”
  • Philippians 2:5-8“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”

Commentary:

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul emphasizes the humility of Christ. Theologian N.T. Wright points out that living for Christ is not only about obedience but about embodying the character of Christ—humble, sacrificial, and loving.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Living for Christ

Living a life for Christ is not about human effort alone but about the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Christians are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who guides, empowers, and transforms them to live according to God’s will. It is through the Spirit’s work in us that we are able to bear fruit and live a life pleasing to God.

Scriptural Reference:

  • Romans 8:9“You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you.”
  • Galatians 5:22-23“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

Commentary:

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a hallmark of the Christian life. According to theologian Wayne Grudem, the Holy Spirit enables believers to live out the righteousness of Christ by empowering them to grow in grace and resist sin.

4. Living a Life of Love and Service

Living for Christ is inseparable from living a life of love and service. Jesus taught that the greatest commandments are to love God and to love others (Matthew 22:37-40). Our love for God is demonstrated through our love for people, and this love is expressed in tangible acts of service.

Scriptural Reference:

  • John 13:34-35“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
  • Mark 10:45“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Commentary:

Jesus modeled servant leadership. Christian author and theologian C.S. Lewis wrote that true Christian service does not seek recognition but is done out of love for others and for God. Our service to others becomes a witness to the world of Christ’s love.

5. Suffering and Living for Christ

Living a life for Christ involves enduring hardships and suffering. Jesus never promised an easy life, but He assured believers that He would be with them in their trials. Suffering for Christ’s sake is an integral part of discipleship, refining believers’ faith and drawing them closer to God.

Scriptural Reference:

  • Romans 8:17“And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.”
  • 2 Timothy 3:12“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Commentary:

The apostle Paul writes extensively on the theme of suffering for Christ. According to theologian D.A. Carson, suffering for the gospel is not just an unfortunate consequence but an expected part of the Christian journey. Through suffering, Christians participate in Christ’s own sufferings and grow in their relationship with Him.

6. The Reward of Living for Christ

Living a life for Christ comes with both immediate and eternal rewards. Though Christians may face challenges in this life, they are assured of God’s presence and the eternal reward of being with Him. Living for Christ now also lays up treasures in heaven.

Scriptural Reference:

  • Matthew 6:19-21“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”
  • 2 Corinthians 4:17-18“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.”

Commentary:

The reward for faithful living is not necessarily immediate or material but eternal. John Piper, a well-known theologian, writes that Christians should live with an eternal perspective, where every act of obedience to Christ contributes to the joy that will be experienced in the presence of God.

7. Practical Examples of Living a Life for Christ

Living a life for Christ looks different in various contexts. Here are a few practical examples:

  1. In the Workplace: A Christian might demonstrate integrity and kindness in their job, working diligently and honestly as a witness to their faith.
    • Colossians 3:23“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
  2. In Family Life: Parents are called to raise their children in the fear and knowledge of God, and spouses are called to love and serve each other sacrificially.
    • Ephesians 5:25“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
    • Proverbs 22:6“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
  3. In the Community: Christians are to be a light in their communities, helping the needy, advocating for justice, and sharing the gospel.
    • Matthew 5:14“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”

Conclusion

Living a life for Christ is the most fulfilling and meaningful way to live. It is not about achieving personal success or pleasure but about glorifying God through every aspect of life. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to imitate Him, live according to His Word, and depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Whether through serving others, enduring trials, or seeking righteousness, our lives should reflect our commitment to Christ and our desire to fulfill His mission on earth.

Sources:

  • Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. IVP, 1986.
  • Wright, N.T. Paul for Everyone: Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. SPCK, 2004.
  • Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology. Zondervan, 1994.
  • Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001.
  • Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Multnomah, 1986.

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Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.


SELLING THE GOSPEL MESSAGE

Let me share a recent experience that deeply impacted me. Not long ago, I encountered someone dedicated to outreach among the homeless—feeding them, sharing the gospel, offering salvation. They approached me seeking advice on how to proceed.

They mentioned giving out free Bibles to those they reached, but then came a crucial question: Our discussion turned to discipleship, and a significant hurdle emerged: they lacked funds for structured study materials.

I took it upon myself to search online for affordable resources. Sadly, even the cheapest options were beyond their means—$10 per book was simply too much. Frustration mounted as I realized the financial barrier preventing us from providing essential guidance without cost.

Determined to make a difference, I resolved to write a comprehensive discipleship training program myself. I compiled it and handed it over to them, free of charge. This experience crystallized for me the essence of the gospel: it’s about giving generously, not receiving.

Reflecting on my own work as an author, I decided to remove my books from platforms like Amazon. If my message truly reflects the gospel, it shouldn’t come with a price tag. Instead, I now offer them freely on my website, ensuring anyone can access them without cost.

This highlights the challenges faced in ministry and the commitment to providing resources freely, in line with the spirit of the gospel.

Regarding the Gospel Message:

Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Jesus commands his disciples to spread the gospel to all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey his commands. The central message is to share the message of salvation 

Matthew 10:8-9 (KJV), Jesus instructs his disciples, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses.” 

These words underscore a profound principle: the gospel message and the spiritual gifts we receive from God are not commodities to be bought or sold for personal gain. Jesus specifically commands his disciples to freely share these gifts, without seeking material compensation. This challenges us to consider whether charging for aspects closely tied to the gospel, such as books, teachings, or spiritual services, aligns with the spirit of Jesus’ teachings. It’s essential to ensure that the core message of God’s grace and love remains accessible to all, without financial barriers.

Regarding Money:

Mark 11:15-17 (KJV):“And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.”
Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV):
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Matthew 6:24 (KJV): “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

Jesus warns against prioritizing earthly wealth and material possessions over spiritual values. He emphasizes the spiritual and eternal significance of serving God rather than pursuing riches, cautioning against the dual allegiance to God and money.

Contemporary Issues:

In modern times, there are concerns about financial exploitation within Christian ministries, where leaders may solicit money for various goods and services, including books, seminars, revivals, concerts, and more:

Critics argue: Some leaders may exploit their positions of influence, urging followers to donate money under the guise of spiritual blessings or rewards. This can potentially contradict Jesus’ call to freely share the gospel and prioritize spiritual growth over financial gain.

Biblical perspective: The Bible condemns using ministry for personal enrichment or exploiting believers for monetary gain. It emphasizes integrity, humility, and genuine care for others in all aspects of ministry.

Divine Justice:
Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV):
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

Jesus warns that outward acts in his name do not guarantee entrance into the kingdom of heaven if they are tainted by greed or self-interest. Those who misuse their ministry for personal gain may face severe judgment.

God’s Care and Justice:
The Bible assures that God is just and will hold everyone accountable for their actions, including those within Christian leadership. Those who exploit others for personal wealth or status will face consequences.
1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV): “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

This verse underscores the danger of placing money and wealth above spiritual values. It warns against the love of money, which can lead to moral and spiritual downfall.

In conclusion, Jesus’ teachings call for spreading the gospel freely and prioritizing spiritual values over material gain. The Bible condemns exploitation in ministry and emphasizes God’s justice and care for those who misuse their positions. It urges believers to uphold integrity, humility, and genuine care for others, ensuring that ministry focuses on serving God and others rather than personal enrichment.


Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.



Biblical Fasting

In the Bible, fasting involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a period of time as an act of devotion, repentance, or seeking guidance from God. The practice is mentioned numerous times throughout both the Old and New Testaments. Here are a few references in the English Standard Version (ESV):Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV): Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing the importance of doing it sincerely and not for show. Isaiah 58:6-7 (ESV): This passage discusses the kind of fast that God desires, which includes acts of justice and compassion towards others. Joel 2:12 (ESV): Joel calls for a fast accompanied by repentance and a turning back to God. Acts 13:2-3 (ESV): The church at Antioch fasts and prays before sending Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey. Esther 4:16: Esther calls for a fast among the Jews as they face a life-threatening situation. These are just a few examples, but fasting is mentioned throughout the Bible as a means of spiritual discipline and seeking God’s guidance and intervention.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Biblical Fast 

II. Types of Fasts

III. Fasting Items

IV. Jewish Fasts

V. New Testament Fasting


I. Biblical Fast 

A biblical fast, as described in the Bible, involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a period of time as an act of devotion, repentance, or seeking guidance from God. Here are some key scriptures and references:

1.  Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV):  Jesus teaches about fasting: “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

2.  Isaiah 58:6-7 (ESV):  God speaks through the prophet Isaiah about the kind of fast He desires: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?”

3.  Joel 2:12 (ESV):  Joel calls for repentance accompanied by fasting: “Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”

4.  Acts 13:2-3 (ESV):  The church at Antioch fasts and prays before sending Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”

5.  Esther 4:16 (ESV):  Esther calls for fasting among the Jews in the face of a life-threatening situation: “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”

These scriptures highlight various aspects of fasting in the Bible, including its purpose, proper attitude, and examples of fasting in practice.

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II. Types of Fasts

In the Bible, people observed fasts in various ways, often accompanied by specific actions or intentions.

1.  Abstaining from Food:  Fasts typically involved abstaining from food or specific types of food for a designated period of time.

   –  Daniel 10:2-3 (ESV):  “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning for three weeks. I ate no delicacies, no meat or wine entered my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, for the full three weeks.”

2.  Repentance and Mourning:  Fasts were often associated with repentance, mourning, or seeking forgiveness from God.

   –  Joel 2:12 (ESV):  “Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”

3.  Seeking God’s Guidance:  Fasts were also observed as a means of seeking God’s guidance, intervention, or blessing in a particular situation.

   –  Esther 4:16 (ESV):  “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”

4.  Spiritual Discipline and Worship:  Fasts were sometimes practiced as acts of spiritual discipline or worship, demonstrating devotion to God.

   –  Acts 13:2-3 (ESV):  “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”

5.  Interceding for Others:  Fasts were also observed to intercede for others or for a collective cause.

   –  Nehemiah 1:4 (ESV):  “As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven.”

These examples illustrate the various purposes and practices associated with fasting in the Bible, each serving as a means of seeking God’s will, mercy, and presence.

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III. Fasting Items

In biblical fasts, people often abstained from specific types of food or even all food for a period of time. The items included in a biblical fast varied depending on the circumstances, cultural practices, and personal choices. Here are some common elements:

1.  Water:  In many biblical fasts, water was allowed, as it was essential for survival and hydration during the fasting period.

2.  Bread and Grain Products:  Fasts often involved abstaining from bread and grain-based products, which were staple foods in many ancient cultures.

3.  Meat and Animal Products:  Some fasts included abstaining from meat and other animal products, such as dairy and eggs.

4.  Wine and Alcoholic Beverages:  Fasts sometimes involved abstaining from wine and other alcoholic beverages, which were common in social and religious gatherings.

5.  Delicacies and Luxuries:  Fasts might also involve abstaining from indulgent or luxurious foods, such as sweets, desserts, and rich dishes.

Ultimately, the specific items included or excluded in a biblical fast depended on the individual’s or community’s intentions, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. The key aspect was the deliberate abstention from certain types of food as an act of devotion, repentance, or seeking God’s guidance.

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IV. Jewish Fasts

In Judaism, there are several types of fasts observed for different purposes, including communal and individual fasts. Here are some of the main types of Jewish fasts:

1.  Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Fast:  Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism, and it is observed with a 25-hour fast from sunset to nightfall the following day. It is a complete fast, meaning no food or drink is consumed, and it is a time for repentance, prayer, and atonement.

2.  Tisha B’Av Fast:  Tisha B’Av is a day of mourning commemorating various tragedies in Jewish history, including the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. It is observed with a fast from sunset to nightfall the following day, similar to Yom Kippur.

3.  Fast of Esther:  This fast is observed on the day before Purim, commemorating Esther’s fasting before approaching the Persian king to plead for the salvation of the Jewish people. It is a dawn-to-dusk fast, typically lasting from sunrise to sunset.

4.  Fast of Gedaliah:  This fast commemorates the assassination of Gedaliah, the governor of Judah appointed by the Babylonians after the destruction of the First Temple. It is observed on the third day of Tishrei, the day after Rosh Hashanah, and it is a dawn-to-dusk fast.

5.  Tzom Gedaliah:  This fast is observed on the day after Rosh Hashanah, commemorating the assassination of Gedaliah. It is also a dawn-to-dusk fast.

6.  Tenth of Tevet Fast:  This fast commemorates the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, which ultimately led to the destruction of the First Temple. It is observed on the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tevet and is a dawn-to-dusk fast.

These are some of the main types of Jewish fasts, each observed for different historical events or religious purposes.

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V. New Testament, Fasting

In the New Testament, fasting is mentioned as a spiritual practice, primarily associated with seeking God’s guidance, expressing repentance, and deepening one’s relationship with God. While specific guidelines for fasting are not extensively detailed in the New Testament, there are principles and examples that provide insight into what a New Testament fast might look like:

1.  Fasting for Spiritual Clarity:  In Matthew 4:1-11(ESV), Jesus fasts for 40 days and nights in the wilderness before beginning his public ministry. This fasting period is characterized by prayer, meditation, and spiritual preparation.

2.  Fasting for Prayer and Discernment:  Acts 13:2-3 (ESV) records a time when leaders in the early Christian church fasted and prayed before making important decisions: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”

3.  Fasting for Repentance:  In the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32, the son returns to his father in repentance, saying, “I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.'” While not explicitly mentioned, fasting could be a part of the son’s act of repentance.

4.  Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline:  In Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV), Jesus teaches about fasting as a private spiritual discipline: “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

5.  Fasting with Humility:  In Luke 18:9-14 (ESV), Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, highlighting the importance of humility in fasting and prayer.

These examples illustrate that New Testament fasting involves not only abstaining from food but also engaging in prayer, seeking spiritual clarity, repentance, and humility before God. It is a deeply personal and spiritual practice aimed at drawing closer to God and aligning one’s heart with His will.

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