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.



Embracing Christian Masculinity

Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound concept of masculinity from a Christian perspective. In a world often muddled with conflicting messages about what it means to be a man, let us turn to the timeless wisdom of Scripture to illuminate the path towards authentic masculinity.

1. Rooted in Humility

      • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV))
      • Masculinity, from a Christian viewpoint, is not about dominance or asserting one’s superiority over others. Rather, it is grounded in humility, placing the needs and well-being of others above oneself.
      • “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 (ESV))
      • James encourages believers to humble themselves before God, promising that God will exalt those who demonstrate humility.
      • “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” (1 Peter 5:5-6 (ESV))
      • Peter underscores the importance of humility in relationships and before God, highlighting that God opposes the proud but extends grace to the humble, ultimately leading to exaltation.

      2. Exemplifying Strength in Love

        • Scripture Reference: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25 (ESV))
        • True masculinity is demonstrated through sacrificial love, mirroring the love of Christ for His church. It involves strength not in physical prowess alone, but in the depth of one’s capacity to love and serve others.
        • “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV))
        • This verse encapsulates the overarching principle of conducting oneself with love in all actions and interactions, reflecting the strength of love in Christian character.
        • “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19 (ESV))
        • This verse reminds us that our capacity to love stems from experiencing the love of God, highlighting the foundational role of God’s love in exemplifying love’s strength in our lives.

        3. Leading with Integrity

          • “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” (Proverbs 11:3 (ESV))
          • A Christian man leads with integrity, guided by moral principles and honesty in all endeavors. Integrity forms the bedrock of trustworthy leadership, both in the family and in society.
          • “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!” (Proverbs 20:7 (ESV))
          • This verse emphasizes that leading with integrity not only benefits the individual but also leaves a positive legacy for future generations.
          • “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.” (Psalm 78:72 (ESV))
          • This verse describes the leadership of David, highlighting his integrity and skill in guiding God’s people.
          • “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Titus 2:7-8 (ESV))
          • Titus encourages believers to exhibit integrity in their actions and teachings, ensuring that they stand as exemplary models of Christian conduct.

          4. Embracing Responsibility

            • “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1 Timothy 5:8 (ESV))
            • Masculinity entails taking responsibility for one’s actions, providing for and nurturing the family entrusted to one’s care. This responsibility extends beyond mere provision to emotional support, guidance, and spiritual leadership.
            • “For each will have to bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:5 (ESV))
            • Galatians underscores personal responsibility, reminding individuals that they are accountable for their actions and the burdens they carry in life.
            • “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 (ESV))
            • This verse highlights the responsibility of fathers to raise their children in a manner that nurtures them spiritually and emotionally.

            5. Seeking Wisdom and Discernment

              • “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” (Proverbs 4:7 (ESV))
              • A Christian man seeks wisdom and discernment, recognizing that true strength lies in the ability to make wise decisions and discern the will of God in all aspects of life. This pursuit of wisdom shapes his character and influences his interactions with others.
              • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5 (ESV))
              • James encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, assuring that God is willing to generously grant it to those who seek it with sincerity.

              In conclusion, Christian masculinity transcends societal stereotypes and cultural expectations. It is a holistic embodiment of humility, sacrificial love, integrity, responsibility, and wisdom, all rooted in the teachings of Scripture. As men called to live out our faith in a broken world, may we strive to embody these virtues, reflecting the image of Christ in all that we do.

              Don’t believe everything you hear.

              Don’t believe everything your hear is being the truth. We need to test those spirits, to see if this is from God or the Devil. Let us look at 1 John 4:1-6 (MSG) to how we can know it’s God’s word they are speaking.

              1 John 4:1-6 (MSG) – Testing the Spirits

              1 Beloved, don’t believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now is already in the world. 4 Little children, you are from God and have conquered them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world; therefore, they speak from the world’s perspective and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God. Anyone who knows God listens to us; anyone who is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of deception.

              Explanation with Scripture References:

              1. Testing the Spirits (1 John 4:1 (MSG))“My dear friends, don’t believe everything you hear. Carefully weigh and examine what people tell you. Not everyone who talks about God comes from God. There are a lot of lying preachers loose in the world.”: Comment: John starts by cautioning believers not to believe every spirit but to test them to determine if they are from God. This echoes Jesus’ warning about false prophets in the Sermon on the Mount. Reference: Matthew 7:15-20 (ESV)
              2. Confessing Jesus Christ (1 John 4:2-3 (MSG)) “Here’s how you test for the genuine Spirit of God. Everyone who confesses openly his faith in Jesus Christ—the Son of God, who came as an actual flesh-and-blood person—comes from God and belongs to God. And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought!”: Comment: John provides a crucial test for spirits. A spirit is from God if it confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This confession is central to the Christian faith and aligns with Jesus’ teachings about His identity. Reference: Matthew 16:15-16 (ESV); 1 Corinthians 12:1-3 (ESV)
              3. Victory Over False Spirits (1 John 4:4 (MSG)): “Here’s how you test for the genuine Spirit of God. Everyone who confesses openly his faith in Jesus Christ—the Son of God, who came as an actual flesh-and-blood person—comes from God and belongs to God. And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought!” Comment: John assures believers that they have conquered false spirits because the Holy Spirit within them is greater than any deceptive spirit in the world. This reminds us of the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Reference: Romans 8:31-39 (ESV)
              4. Worldly vs. Godly Perspective (1 John 4:5 (MSG)):My dear children, you come from God and belong to God. You have already won a big victory over those false teachers, for the Spirit in you is far stronger than anything in the world. These people belong to the Christ-denying world. They talk the world’s language and the world eats it up. But we come from God and belong to God. Anyone who knows God understands us and listens.” Comment: John distinguishes between those who speak from a worldly perspective and those who are of God. This highlights the contrast between the values and teachings of the world and those of God’s kingdom. Reference: Romans 12:2 (MSG); James 4:4 (ESV)
              5. Listening to Apostolic Teaching (1 John 4:6 (MSG)): “The person who has nothing to do with God will, of course, not listen to us. This is another test for telling the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of deception.” Comment: John asserts that those who are from God will listen to the apostolic teaching, while those who are not from God will reject it. This underscores the authority of the apostles’ message and the discernment needed in identifying true believers. Reference: Acts 2:42 (ESV); 2 Peter 3:2 (ESV); 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV)

              In 1 John 4:1-6 (ESV), John encourages believers to be discerning about the spirits and teachings they encounter. He provides a clear test for identifying true spirits from false ones, emphasizing the confession of Jesus Christ’s incarnation as a crucial criterion. John assures believers of their victory over deceptive spirits through the Holy Spirit and warns against adopting a worldly perspective. Ultimately, he underscores the importance of listening to apostolic teaching as a sign of genuine faith. These teachings align with broader biblical principles regarding discernment, the confession of Jesus as Lord, and the role of the Holy Spirit.



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