The Christian life is a straightforward matter. It requires us to confess our sins and seek forgiveness from Christ. There is no other means of obtaining forgiveness apart from faith in Jesus’ work. No amount of religious works or observances can earn forgiveness. Living the Christian life demands faith. We must enter by faith and continue to live by faith. God’s unmerited grace makes the Christian life possible.
Paul unequivocally asserts in Romans 1:16 that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the power of God unto salvation. This gospel is, in essence, the good news that those who have faith in Christ will undoubtedly attain the Christian life. As we enter the Christian life by faith in this good news, we witness our faith grow and flourish, gaining more profound knowledge about the God who saved us.
The gospel of Christ reveals God to us as we devote ourselves to growing closer to Him every day. Diligently studying the Scripture is an indispensable component of the Christian life. We must commit ourselves to it without reservation because the gospel is not merely the starting point of faith but the foundation on which we build the Christian life.
The Christian life demands that we sacrifice our desires, ambitions, and glories. Paul emphatically stated to the Galatians that he had been crucified with Christ and no longer lived, but rather Christ lived in Paul. Paul noted in Galatians 2:20 that he lived this new life by faith in the Son of God. This can only be accomplished by His power through the faith that He gives us by His grace.
Prayer is an indispensable part of the Christian life and can aid us in achieving this goal. This perseverance is not a burden but a testament to our faith and trust in God’s promises.
The Christian life demands unwavering perseverance until the end. Hebrews 10:38-39 explicitly states this by quoting the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk, who stated that the just shall live by faith, and that God finds no pleasure in one who draws back. Jesus reinforces this principle in Luke 9:62 by saying that anyone who puts their hand to the plow and looks back is not fit for the kingdom of heaven.
Believers may be tempted to draw back, but we must remain steadfast and keep following Christ with the help of God’s Holy Spirit. The writer of Hebrews also affirms this truth: we are not individuals who draw back to perdition but rather who believe and are saved. Jesus made it clear in Matthew 24:13 that those who endure will be saved.
The Christian life is lived by placing unwavering faith in God. His Holy Spirit of promise seals and protects us eternally. Living the Christian life requires us to actively seek God, diligently study His word, and pray fervently. The Holy Spirit is our guide and strength, empowering us to live a life that pleases God. The Christian life also joins forces with like-minded believers who share our deep desire to become more like Christ.
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