Becoming Christ-like: The Core of Christian Living
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we delved into the primary goal of the Christian life, which is to be more like Christ. This overarching goal encompasses many other objectives such as glorifying God, winning souls, and maintaining a personal relationship with Him. All these goals are byproducts of becoming more Christ-like. We explored Matthew 5, where Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount. This sermon is a comprehensive guide on how Christians should live and interact with others. Jesus saw the multitudes and recognized the need to teach them, emphasizing that His teachings are not exclusive but meant for everyone.
We discussed the importance of structuring our lives around the goal of being more like Christ, even in our jobs and daily activities. This involves asking God how we can reflect Christ in every aspect of our lives. Jesus' teachings were meant to be accessible to the multitudes, and He prepared Himself to teach them effectively. The Sermon on the Mount is not about how to get to heaven but about how those on their way to heaven should conduct themselves. It is a framework for ethical living, emphasizing that true change comes from a renewed mind and heart, not just outward actions.
We also touched on the importance of teaching and discipleship within the church. Every member can be trained to minister and counsel others, fulfilling the need and opportunity to teach. Jesus' teachings were meant to be shared and understood by all, not kept exclusive. The goal is to be more like Christ, and as we grow in this, we should share our insights and devotions with others to help them grow as well.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Primary Goal of the Christian Life: The primary goal is to be more like Christ. This encompasses other objectives like glorifying God, winning souls, and maintaining a personal relationship with Him. All these are byproducts of becoming more Christ-like, which should be the central focus of our lives. [22:50]
2. Jesus' Teachings for All: Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount were meant for the multitudes, not just a select few. His teachings are inclusive, aiming to guide everyone on how to live a life that reflects Christ. This inclusivity is crucial for understanding the universal applicability of His message. [30:57]
3. Structuring Life Around Christ: Every aspect of our lives, including our jobs and daily activities, should be structured around the goal of being more like Christ. This involves seeking God's guidance on how to reflect Christ in every situation, making our faith practical and lived out daily. [26:05]
4. Teaching and Discipleship: There is a significant need and opportunity for teaching and discipleship within the church. Every member can be trained to minister and counsel others, fulfilling the biblical mandate to teach and support one another in the faith. [27:48]
5. Sharing Insights and Devotions: Sharing what God has taught us with others is crucial for mutual growth. When we share our devotions and insights, we not only reinforce our understanding but also bless others with the wisdom God has imparted to us. This practice strengthens the community and helps everyone grow in their faith. [46:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[15:49] - Opening Prayer
[20:32] - Question: Primary Goal of Christian Life
[22:07] - Being More Like Christ
[23:35] - Introduction to Sermon on the Mount
[24:56] - Opportunities to Teach
[26:05] - Structuring Life Around Christ
[27:48] - Need for Teaching and Discipleship
[30:57] - Jesus' Inclusive Teachings
[32:23] - Products of Being Christ-like
[34:00] - Public Nature of Christ's Teachings
[36:42] - Jesus' Teaching Methods
[39:37] - Ethical Teachings of Christ
[41:11] - Practical Applications
[43:55] - Sermon on the Mount as Ethical Framework
[45:08] - Christ-like Goal and Discipleship
[46:17] - Sharing Devotions and Insights
[47:05] - Encouragement to Continue Sharing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 5:1-2 - "And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,"
2. Romans 8:29 - "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren."
3. Philippians 2:5 - "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."
#### Observation Questions
1. What is the primary goal of the Christian life according to the sermon? ([22:07])
2. How did Jesus prepare Himself before teaching the multitudes in Matthew 5:1-2? ([23:35])
3. What does Romans 8:29 say about being conformed to the image of Christ?
4. How does Philippians 2:5 instruct us to think and act?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the primary goal of the Christian life to be more like Christ, and how do other objectives fit into this goal? ([22:50])
2. How does structuring our lives around Christ influence our daily activities and decisions, according to the sermon? ([26:05])
3. What does the inclusivity of Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount tell us about His approach to ministry? ([30:57])
4. How does the concept of teaching and discipleship within the church align with Jesus' example in Matthew 5:1-2? ([27:48])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily activities. How can you intentionally structure them to be more like Christ? ([26:05])
2. Think about a recent situation where you had the opportunity to reflect Christ but didn't. What could you do differently next time?
3. Jesus' teachings were meant for everyone. How can you make sure that your actions and words are inclusive and reflect Christ's love to all? ([30:57])
4. Identify one area in your life where you struggle to be Christ-like. What steps can you take this week to improve in that area?
5. How can you contribute to teaching and discipleship within your church community? Is there a specific person or group you feel called to mentor or support? ([27:48])
6. Share a recent insight or devotion that God has taught you. How did sharing it with others impact your understanding and their growth? ([46:17])
7. Consider your current job or educational pursuit. How can you seek God's guidance to reflect Christ in that environment? ([26:05])
Devotional
Day 1: Becoming More Like Christ
The primary goal of the Christian life is to be more like Christ. This goal encompasses other objectives such as glorifying God, winning souls, and maintaining a personal relationship with Him. All these are byproducts of becoming more Christ-like, which should be the central focus of our lives. To achieve this, we must continually seek to reflect Christ in our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. This involves a daily commitment to spiritual growth and transformation, allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and hearts. By doing so, we not only fulfill our primary purpose but also naturally glorify God and draw others to Him. [22:50]
Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV): "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you seek to reflect Christ in your daily interactions this week? How can you allow the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and heart today?
Day 2: Jesus' Inclusive Teachings
Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount were meant for the multitudes, not just a select few. His teachings are inclusive, aiming to guide everyone on how to live a life that reflects Christ. This inclusivity is crucial for understanding the universal applicability of His message. Jesus saw the multitudes and recognized the need to teach them, emphasizing that His teachings are not exclusive but meant for everyone. This means that no one is beyond the reach of His message, and everyone is invited to learn and grow in their faith. [30:57]
Matthew 5:1-2 (ESV): "Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:"
Reflection: How can you make Jesus' teachings more accessible to those around you? What steps can you take to ensure that the message of Christ is inclusive and welcoming to all?
Day 3: Structuring Life Around Christ
Every aspect of our lives, including our jobs and daily activities, should be structured around the goal of being more like Christ. This involves seeking God's guidance on how to reflect Christ in every situation, making our faith practical and lived out daily. By doing so, we integrate our faith into every part of our lives, ensuring that our actions and decisions are aligned with our spiritual goals. This holistic approach to faith helps us to remain consistent in our walk with Christ and to be a light to those around us. [26:05]
Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: In what ways can you better integrate your faith into your daily activities and work? How can you seek God's guidance to reflect Christ in every situation you encounter today?
Day 4: Teaching and Discipleship
There is a significant need and opportunity for teaching and discipleship within the church. Every member can be trained to minister and counsel others, fulfilling the biblical mandate to teach and support one another in the faith. This involves a commitment to learning and growing in our own faith so that we can effectively teach and disciple others. By doing so, we help to build a strong and supportive community of believers who are equipped to live out their faith and share it with others. [27:48]
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also."
Reflection: How can you contribute to the teaching and discipleship efforts within your church? What steps can you take to grow in your own faith so that you can effectively minister to others?
Day 5: Sharing Insights and Devotions
Sharing what God has taught us with others is crucial for mutual growth. When we share our devotions and insights, we not only reinforce our understanding but also bless others with the wisdom God has imparted to us. This practice strengthens the community and helps everyone grow in their faith. By being open and willing to share our spiritual journey, we create an environment of mutual support and encouragement, fostering a deeper sense of connection and growth within the church. [46:17]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: What insights or devotions has God recently taught you that you can share with others? How can you create opportunities to encourage and support your fellow believers in their spiritual growth?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "I am so thankful that all of those goals line up with Scripture. But if I were to pick the primary, I would say to be more like Christ. That would be the primary. Because Christ will win people to himself. Yeah. Christ glorifies God. And Christ has an intimate personal passion relationship with Christ. You get it. With God. You get it. But so, I would say the overarching umbrella goal of the Christian should be to be more like Christ." [22:07] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus isn't in a monastic spirit. He doesn't have just a handful of things for a handful of people. His teachings were meant for the multitudes. His teachings aren't exclusive. And nothing about... Being a Christian is exclusive. Christ wanted the multitudes to understand how to be like Christ. You get saved. Now, grant this. When a person gets saved, their thought is, I don't want to go to hell. Their thought is not, I want to be like Christ." [31:44] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Sermon on the Mount isn't how you go to heaven. It's how those on their way to heaven interact and conduct themselves. That's what the Sermon on the Mount is. It's our ethical treaties, if I could say it that way. It's a framework to help us understand what is right, what is wrong, how to interact with people." [40:23] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Make no mistake, being a Christian starts with salvation but doesn't end with salvation. The goal is Christ-like. It doesn't end with salvation. Being saved doesn't make you Christ-like. Having a close fellowship with God will help make you Christ-like. So the goal is Christ-like." [45:08] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "I would say as part of that goal for the Christian life, one of those goals ought to be, over umbrella, to be more like Christ. So, how do my four domains fit into how to be more like Christ? How does my educational pursuit fit into how to be more like Christ? You don't pick your job based on how to be more like Christ, generally. But in the picking of that job, I'm asking God, how can I be more like you and still work at this job?" [24:56] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I want to ask you, Christians, how are you organizing and structuring your life to be more like Christ, but also to realize there are great needs. There's a need to teach others. Would you feel comfortable teaching others in some capacity as far as for Christ? There is a need. There's an opportunity." [26:05] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If I can get everybody here to understand, and you can then influence those around you in the same method, it is to be more like Christ. What do our discipleships fall short in? Discipleship programs generally fall short in? We give products. Maybe one time I'll get all my books out, bring them up here, and we'll go through all the headlines, you know, the table of contents. We'll see if there's anywhere in there that it tells us to be more like Christ. If I'm more like Christ, the product follows." [33:03] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Bible everywhere. Everywhere it talks about change. It talks about a renewing of the mind, a renewing of the inward man, a changing of who you be, not what you look like or what you do. And so we want to be sure that we're getting that thought across." [34:00] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "One of the reasons for sharing our devotions with one another, can you understand that one of the reasons would have to do with us imparting something that God has given us? If God has spoke to you about something that makes it important and you can impart that to someone else, it might be a blessing to them. You say, well, it's just dumb and silly and it's just for me. Well, if it was for you, you're not dumb nor silly. And if it was for you, there's an opportunity. Share it with others." [46:17] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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