At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are inspired by the profound truth that the power of Jesus is not just a historical reality but a present force in our lives. As we reflect on the words of Jesus in John 10:17-18, we are reminded of His divine authority: “The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.” This declaration of power is not just about His sacrifice; it is about His sovereignty and His love for us.
The Authority of Jesus and Our Accountability
Jesus’ authority extends beyond His sacrifice; it includes His role as judge. In 2 Corinthians 5:10, we are reminded that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” This truth is echoed in Luke 3, where John the Baptist speaks of the coming one who will separate the wheat from the chaff. Jesus’ power to judge is a sobering reminder of our accountability before Him. Yet, it is also a source of hope, for His judgment is rooted in His love and righteousness.
The Indwelling Power of the Holy Spirit
What does this power mean for us today? As believers baptized into Christ, we receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This means that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work within us. Romans 8:11 affirms this: “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”
While we may not perform miraculous acts like Jesus, we are empowered to do powerful things every day. As we speak the name of Jesus, we bring His presence into our lives and the lives of others. This power is evident in our ability to overcome stress and worry, as Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds.
Overcoming Obstacles and Temptations
When we face obstacles, Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. This strength is not just for personal triumphs but for living out our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” It empowers us to serve others, share the Gospel, and live lives that reflect His love.
In moments of temptation, 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures us that “no temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” This promise is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of the Holy Spirit within us, enabling us to resist temptation and live victoriously.
Living Out Our Mission: Study, Share, Serve
At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is lived out through “Just 3″—Study, Share, and Serve. As we study the Word, we grow in our love and knowledge of God, equipping us to live out our faith with conviction. Sharing our faith allows us to build relationships and create opportunities for others to experience the love of Christ. Serving others is the tangible expression of our faith, reflecting the love of Christ in action.
Conclusion
The power of Jesus is not just a theological concept; it is a living reality in the life of every believer. As we embrace this truth, let us be encouraged to live out our mission with confidence and courage, knowing that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work within us. Together, we can be the change that reflects the love and grace of Jesus to a world in need.
