As Jim eloquently articulated in his recent sermon, being a Christian fundamentally means striving to be Christlike in every facet of our lives. It’s not merely about professing faith with our lips; it’s about embodying that faith through our actions, words, and thoughts. The journey of discipleship isn’t a one-time event but rather a continual process of aligning ourselves more closely with the character of Jesus.
There is one calling for those who identify as Christians – to mirror the likeness of Christ. At the core of our faith lies not just a belief in Jesus, but a profound invitation to walk in His ways, to abide in Him, and to be transformed into His image. This truth resonates deeply within the ethos of Lakeview Christian Church, where the mandate to Study, Share, and Serve finds its roots in the very essence of Christ-likeness.
Scripture reinforces this profound truth. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Here, Jesus emphasizes the intimate connection between knowing Him and knowing the Father. It’s a deeply personal relationship, one that necessitates an ongoing commitment to understanding and emulating the life of Christ.
Furthermore, Romans 12:2 reminds us of the transformative power of conforming to Christ’s image: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” This verse underscores the importance of intentional renewal, allowing the truth of God’s Word to reshape our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.
At Lakeview Christian Church in Portage Lakes, or any community of faith rooted in the teachings of Jesus, the call to be Christlike extends beyond individual spiritual growth. It encompasses a collective commitment to love others, to extend grace and mercy, and to embody the truth and love of Christ in tangible ways. Study, Share, and Serve become not just mere activities but expressions of our desire to follow Jesus more closely each day.
The essence of Christianity lies in the pursuit of Christlikeness. It’s a lifelong journey of transformation, marked by a deepening intimacy with Jesus and a continual alignment with His character. As followers of Christ, let us heed the call to reflect His image in all that we do, for therein lies the true essence of our faith.
