Embracing Transparency and Grace: The Heart of True Friendship with Jesus

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission is to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us.” We live out this mission through our “Just 3” principles: Study, Share, and Serve. We study to love and know God, share to know and love others, and serve to put love into action. Today, let’s delve into the profound truth that Jesus is the friend of those who are honest and transparent, and who admit that it is only by God’s grace that we have any claim to a relationship with Him.

The Heart of True Friendship with Jesus

In our recent sermon series on leaning into the wisdom of Proverbs, we explored the essence of true friendship with Jesus. The heart of God is to be in a relationship with His creation, the ones He made in His own image. This relationship is not forced upon us; it is a choice we must make. Jesus desires to be our friend, but this friendship comes with certain requirements. He befriends those who are honest, real, and transparent.

Scripture Reference:

• Matthew 11:19 (ESV): “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they said, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

This verse highlights that Jesus was often found in the company of those society deemed unworthy—sinners and tax collectors. He was not interested in the self-righteous or those who played church. Instead, He sought out those who were honest about their shortcomings and who recognized their need for Him.

True Grace Upon Grace

As we gather to commune together, it is essential to focus on the grace and mercy God has bestowed upon us. The only thing pending is our admission of our sins, asking for forgiveness, and repenting to pursue God’s way of living. Jesus wants nothing to do with people who don’t need Him. He wants everything to do with those who can admit they are sinners in need of a Savior.

Scripture Reference:

• Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV): “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

This passage reminds us that our salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn through our efforts. It is by His grace alone that we are saved.

Study: To Love and Know The True God

At Lakeview Christian Church, we emphasize the importance of studying God’s Word to deepen our relationship with Him. By immersing ourselves in the Scriptures, we come to understand His character, His love, and His expectations for us.

Scripture Reference:

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV): “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Share: To Know and Love Others

Sharing our lives with others is a crucial aspect of our faith. Jesus modeled this by befriending those who were marginalized and outcast. We are called to do the same, extending love and grace to those around us.

Scripture Reference:

• John 13:34-35 (NIV): “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Serve: Love in Action

Serving others is love in action. It is through our acts of service that we demonstrate the love of Christ to the world. Jesus Himself came not to be served, but to serve, and we are called to follow His example.

Scripture Reference:

• Mark 10:45 (NIV): “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Conclusion

As we reflect on the message of transparency and grace, let us remember that our relationship with Jesus is rooted in our honesty about our need for Him. By embracing His grace, studying His Word, sharing our lives with others, and serving in love, we fulfill our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us.”

Let us pray: “God, we thank You for Your grace and mercy. We admit that we are sinners in need of a Savior. Help us to be honest and transparent in our relationship with You. Guide us as we study Your Word, share Your love with others, and serve in Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Join us at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes as we continue to grow in our faith and live out our mission. Together, we can make a difference in our community and beyond.