The Main Idea
This week’s sermon talked about how Biblical truth is oftentimes hard to hear because it’s very much in our face and may seem like a long list of rules to follow. But God has given us instructions and guidelines for our own good. Living our life as God has taught will benefit us, and more importantly, will please God!
Living as Christians
When God talks about how we are to live as Christians, the outside world looks and says, “No one can live like that. That’s unreal.” Or, ”You can’t tell me how to live!” As Pastor Jim says in his message, he’s heard those statements before and he’s sure you have, too. But here’s the beautiful part: Jim’s not the one telling you how to live. Paul, through the inspiration of God, wrote the words; Jim is only reiterating them. God tells us how we are to live. Why? Because just like the church 2000 years ago, we still need to hear the truth today. And sometimes that truth may be difficult.
The Challenge of Scripture
The Bible is filled with passages that challenge us, confront us, and sometimes make us uncomfortable. These are not just arbitrary rules but divine guidelines meant to shape us into the image of Christ. When Paul wrote his letters, he was addressing real issues within the early church, issues that are still relevant today. The human heart hasn’t changed much over the millennia; we still struggle with sin, pride, and the desire to live life on our own terms.
The Call to Holiness
In Ephesians 4:17-24, Paul urges believers to “no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.” He describes a life alienated from God, marked by ignorance and hardness of heart. This is a life lived in darkness and sin. But Paul doesn’t leave us there; he calls us to something greater and better. He calls us to put off our old self, which is corrupted by deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of our minds. We are to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Moving Out of Darkness
Walking in the light means moving out of darkness. It means making a conscious decision to turn away from sin and to embrace the life that God has called us to. This is not a one-time event but a daily choice. Each day, we must choose to live according to God’s Word, even when it’s difficult, even when it goes against the grain of our culture.
Renewing Your Mind
Embracing the truth of Scripture means allowing it to transform us. Romans 12:2 urges us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Renewing your mind begins with hearing and reading the Bible and allowing what we read to impact our mind. As we meditate on God’s Word, our thoughts are renewed, and our actions begin to reflect the character of Christ.
Living as Children of Light
Living as children of light means that our lives should be a reflection of God’s love and holiness. Ephesians 5:8-10 says, “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true) and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.” Our lives should bear the fruit of the Spirit, demonstrating love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
The Role of the Holy Spirit
We cannot walk in the light on our own. We need the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us, convict us, and empower us to live according to God’s Word. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be our Helper, teaching us all things and bringing to our remembrance all that He has said to us (John 14:26). As we yield to the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to live a life that honors God.
The Take Away For This Week
Walking in the light is not always easy, but it is always worth it! The journey of faith is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be challenges and obstacles along the way, but we can take heart knowing that God is with us. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). As we walk in the light, we can encourage one another, building each other up in love and spurring one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). You can watch the sermon here.
Pray
Father, Thank you for giving us the Holy Spirit to help us live in a way that is pleasing to You. Help me each day to move away from darkness and embrace the truth of Scripture. May I enjoy the joy and peace that comes from living my life for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us this Sunday. Together, we can experience God’s Grace and share the love of Jesus with those around us.
