The purpose of Christian life
The purpose of the Christian life is to grow in our new identities as God’s adopted children and share what we received with others so they can receive it too.
“All who did receive him, those who believed in his name, He gave the right to become children of God.” — John 1:11-12
“You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
… “God’s Spirit, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you and will raise you to life… for those who are led by the (Holy) Spirit of God are the children of God …” – Romans 8:11-14
This is our response to the Good News about Christ.
God’s children exhibit new life in Christ by doing what Jesus did:
Jesus showed faith in God as a loving and powerful father.
Jesus displayed God’s character, compassion, and purposes wherever He went.
Jesus used his time on earth to push back darkness through words and acts of good (instead of pursuing fame, power, comforts, or sensual experiences).
Jesus about what God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit offer.
Jesus taught people how to live as He did and to tell others about Him.
Jesus lived true love, caring about others as much as Himself and sacrificing for their good.
All of this is about living the blessings of following Christ and helping others receive what we received.
“Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.’” – Matthew 16:24-25
“In light of all God did for you, offer yourselves as a living sacrifice (God is not looking for dead sacrifices), holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” – Romans 12:1-2
To help us live this way, Jesus asks four things of all believers.
1 – Remember what Christ did for us and the price He paid so we won’t regress to old habits (Luke 22:19-20, 1 Corinthians 6:20).
2 – Stay connected with Jesus and other believers to grow in the knowledge of Christ and Christ’s character traits of Truth, Love, Humility, and Compassion (John 15:5, Micah 6:8, Ephesians 4:15, 2 Peter 3:18)
Pray together (Matthew 18:18, 21:13)
Encourage one another in following Christ (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Read God’s Word together. Help each other understand it (Colossians 3:16)
Sing together (Colossians 3:16)
Share this new life (Acts 2:42-25)
Share burdens (Galatians 6:2)
3 – Share what Jesus did for us so others can experience the same benefits we are growing in (Matthew 28:18-20).
4 – Produce good fruit by staying connected to Jesus and acting as light and hope for a world lost in darkness (John 15:5, Matthew 5:14-16, Hebrews 13:16).
Let our Christlike character be a good example to others.
Encourage better relationships among human beings.
In whatever our vocation, use our talents to help people, places, and things flourish.
Help people know God better.
Help people know God better by teaching and supporting anyone who wants it and by inviting them into our church community.
Show God’s love by meeting practical needs around us that we are equipped for, individually or as groups.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” – John 15:5
Jesus calls us to live as lights to the world, showing God’s character and values where we live, work, and play.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
“Those who live with their minds on their flesh are ruled by their impulses, but those who let the Holy Spirit lead them have set their minds on what the Holy Spirit desires. A mind ruled by flesh-impulses leads to death, but the mind governed by the Holy Spirit has life and peace …” –Romans 8:5-6
That is the purpose of Christian life.
God promises that if we live for that purpose, He will work in us, on us, through us, and give us what we need.
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” — Matthew 6:33
“God has given us everything we need to live a set-apart life. We received it from Jesus, who called us to Himself with His glory and goodness.” — 2 Peter 1:3
“…God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves Him. They are the ones God has chosen for his purpose, … chosen to let them become like his own son, so Jesus would be the first of many children.” — Romans 8:28-29
That’s a good promise!
If shared community following Jesus sounds good to you, let’s connect!