Brief Summary
This video emphasizes that true Christianity involves more than just worship; it requires a transformation of character that reflects Christ in daily life. The speaker discusses the fivefold ministry (apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers) and their roles in helping Christians mature spiritually. The sermon stresses the importance of understanding God completely, not just as a loving Father but also as a King and Teacher, and encourages listeners to put off their old selves and embrace a new life in Christ, marked by love, self-control, and a commitment to living righteously.
- Christianity is about character transformation, not just worship.
- The fivefold ministry helps Christians grow spiritually.
- Understanding God completely leads to a changed life.
- Embrace the new self in Christ and live righteously.
Introduction: The Essence of Christianity
Christianity should lead to a continuous transformation towards Christ, impacting our character through what we hear, understand, and practice daily. It's not enough to worship diligently from Monday to Sunday if our behavior remains unchanged. True Christian practice extends beyond worship spaces into our interactions with others, reflecting Christ's teachings in our actions and attitudes.
The Problem with Superficial Worship
Many Christians are content with mere worship, failing to change their behavior, which mirrors that of worldly individuals. This leads to trouble, arguments, and actions that become stumbling blocks for others. It's crucial to adopt Christ's mindset and way of life, as taught in places of worship, to grow towards Him.
The Fivefold Ministry: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers
Ephesians 4:11-13 discusses the roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds (pastors), and teachers in helping Christians grow. Each servant of God has a unique ministry position and calling. Apostles lay a strong foundation, prophets call for repentance, evangelists perform miraculous signs, shepherds speak sweetly, and teachers provide deep instruction. The goal of these ministries is to equip believers for service and build up the body of Christ, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of God.
Understanding God Completely
Being taught by different ministries provides a complete understanding of God. The pastor teaches that God is good and loving, the prophet reveals God as one who rebukes, and the evangelist shows God as able to perform miracles. This comprehensive understanding is essential for our character to change and align with Christ.
Maturing in Faith: Beyond Milk and Porridge
Christians must mature in their faith, moving beyond basic teachings to become adults who can handle more complex spiritual truths. Just as babies need milk, spiritually immature Christians require constant pampering and cannot handle reprimands. Mature Christians, however, are not easily shaken, hold firm to God's will, and live righteously.
Characteristics of Mature Christians
Mature Christians can smile happily in the face of problems and possess sharp sensitivity, discerning between right and wrong. They know God personally, understand the Word, and can apply it to their lives. They act appropriately, even in difficult situations, and are not easily swayed by false teachings.
Recognizing and Overcoming Spiritual Warfare
Our enemies are not flesh and blood but evil spirits. Satan uses evil people to oppress us and hinder God's plan. Mature Christians recognize these tricks and remain calm, controlling their words and actions. They hold fast to the truth in love, growing in all things toward Christ.
Living Like Christ: Manifestation Through Actions
The manifestation of God in our lives is real and tangible through our attitudes, actions, and deeds. People judge us by our character and how we treat others, not by our degrees or wealth. Christians are called to follow Jesus' lifestyle, behavior, and actions, reflecting God's glory in their daily lives.
The Importance of Repentance and Self-Correction
Stubborn people resist correction and insist on their own perspectives. True growth involves self-correction, repenting and changing when we are wrong. A meek heart, like David's, is quick to repent, while a hard heart, like Saul's, denies and makes excuses.
Putting Off the Old Self and Embracing the New
Christians must put off their old selves, with its destructive lusts, and put on the new self, created in God's image. This involves renewing our minds daily through the Word and the teachings of God's servants. Our thoughts, feelings, and will must be transformed into the image of Christ.
Practical Steps for Daily Transformation
We must throw away our old habits, such as lying and holding onto anger. If we become angry, we should not let the sun go down on our wrath. Apologizing is essential for resolving conflicts and maintaining healthy relationships. By learning to wear the new human form, we allow those around us to experience Christ.
