Living a Compelling Life Through Christ's Love
Summary
Today, we gathered to remember the heart of our faith: the sacrificial love of Jesus, the call to authentic Christian living, and the invitation to a compelling life that draws others to God. We began by pausing for communion, reflecting on the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the importance of examining our hearts—not just in relation to God, but also in how we see and treat others. The cross is not just a personal rescue; it’s a declaration of God’s love for all, and we are called to remember that every time we gather, especially at the Lord’s Table. This remembrance should humble us, reminding us of the pit from which we were rescued and the grace that now defines us.
We then turned to the story of Paul before King Agrippa, highlighting the power of a life so authentic and compelling that even kings are moved to consider Jesus. In a world full of pretense and performance, like the infamous Milli Vanilli scandal, the need for genuine, lived-out faith is more urgent than ever. The world is hungry for reality, not religion; for lives that don’t just talk about Jesus, but look, sound, and act like Him. Authentic Christianity is not about lip-syncing the right words or performing religious duties, but about a life transformed by Christ and lived out in the open for all to see.
We explored three essential practices for living a compelling Christian life: being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing the works of Jesus. Abiding in Christ is the source of all spiritual fruitfulness; it is in His presence—through the Word, worship, prayer, and the gathered church—that we are changed. As we spend time with Him, we are transformed to reflect His character, and our lives begin to bear the unmistakable fruit of Christlikeness. But it doesn’t stop there: we are called to do the works of Jesus, to bring healing, hope, and practical love to those around us. This is not a life of religious performance, but of Spirit-empowered action that points people to the reality of God.
In closing, we were challenged to strip away the trappings of religion and pursue a life that is truly compelling—a life that makes people look at us and then look up to God. This is the invitation: to live worthy of the calling we have received, for the glory of God and the good of others.
Key Takeaways
- Communion is a call to remember both the cost of our salvation and the value God places on every person. When we pause to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice, we are humbled and reminded that the cross was not just for us, but for our neighbor, our coworker, and even the stranger on the street. This remembrance should shape how we see ourselves and others, fostering humility and compassion in our relationships. [13:05]
- Authentic Christianity is not about outward performance or religious lip-syncing, but about a life that is deeply rooted in Christ and visibly transformed. The disconnect between what we say and how we live undermines our witness and can even harm others’ faith. True faith is proven in practice, not just in doctrine or words, and the world is desperate to see the real Jesus lived out through us. [39:55]
- Abiding in Jesus is the foundation of a compelling life. Spiritual fruitfulness, power, and transformation flow from being with Him—through the Word, worship, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. The degree to which we are connected to Christ determines the impact and legacy of our lives, both now and for generations to come. [51:03]
- Becoming like Jesus is the natural result of being with Him. As disciples, we are called to reflect His character in our conduct, words, and attitudes. Holiness is not just a set of rules, but a life conformed to Christ, marked by love, humility, and integrity that compels others to consider the reality of God. [58:57]
- Doing the works of Jesus is the outflow of a life transformed by His presence. We are called to continue His ministry—bringing healing, hope, and practical love to the world around us. Whether through acts of kindness, prayer for the sick, or standing with the broken, our actions become a living testimony that points people to the goodness and power of God. [01:01:00]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[08:54] - Communion Preparation and Reflection
[13:05] - Examining Ourselves and Discerning the Body
[14:45] - The Depth of God’s Love and Our Response
[17:16] - Confession, Forgiveness, and Receiving Life
[18:27] - Communion Prayer and Blessing
[24:00] - Introduction to Acts 26 and Paul’s Testimony
[28:47] - The Call to Authentic Christianity
[34:50] - What Does It Mean to Be a Real Christian?
[37:03] - The Danger of Knowledge Without Practice
[39:55] - Faith Proven by Works
[51:03] - Abiding in Jesus: The Source of a Compelling Life
[54:04] - Meeting Jesus in the Word, Worship, and Community
[56:05] - Becoming Like Jesus: Character and Conduct
[58:57] - Doing the Works of Jesus
[01:08:37] - Responding to God’s Invitation
[01:10:14] - Prayer and Blessing
[01:13:25] - Offering and Generosity
[01:15:36] - Closing and Final Announcements
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Living a Compelling Christian Life
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### Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 11:23-29 (ESV)
> For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.
Acts 26:19-29 (ESV)
> Therefore, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance. For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”
John 15:1-5 (ESV)
> “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
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### Observation Questions
1. In 1 Corinthians 11, what does Paul say is the purpose of taking communion, and what warning does he give about how we approach it?
2. When Paul stands before King Agrippa in Acts 26, what is the main message he shares about his life and faith?
3. According to John 15, what is the result of abiding in Jesus, and what happens if we don’t?
4. The sermon compared authentic Christianity to “not lip-syncing” but living out real faith. What were some examples given of what “lip-syncing” faith looks like? [[39:55]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize examining ourselves and discerning the body before taking communion? How does this relate to our relationships with others? [[13:05]]
2. In Acts 26, Paul’s life and testimony almost persuade a king to become a Christian. What does this suggest about the power of a compelling, authentic Christian life? [[24:00]]
3. Jesus says in John 15 that “apart from me you can do nothing.” What does it look like practically to abide in Jesus in daily life? [[51:03]]
4. The sermon talked about the world being hungry for “reality, not religion.” Why do you think people are drawn to authentic faith rather than religious performance? [[28:47]]
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### Application Questions
1. When you take communion, do you usually pause to examine your heart and your relationships with others? What would it look like to make this a regular practice? [[13:05]]
2. The sermon said the cross is not just for us, but for our neighbor, coworker, and even the stranger on the street. Is there someone in your life you need to see differently in light of Christ’s sacrifice? How can you show them the value God places on them this week? [[14:45]]
3. The world is tired of “lip-syncing” Christianity. Are there areas in your life where your words and actions don’t match? What is one step you can take to close that gap? [[39:55]]
4. Abiding in Jesus was described as spending time in the Word, worship, prayer, and with other believers. Which of these do you find most challenging, and what is one practical way you can grow in that area this month? [[54:04]]
5. Becoming like Jesus means reflecting His character—love, humility, integrity. Is there a specific character trait of Jesus you want to grow in? What is one situation this week where you can practice it? [[58:57]]
6. Doing the works of Jesus includes bringing healing, hope, and practical love. Can you think of a specific need around you (at work, in your neighborhood, or family) where you could take action this week? [[01:01:00]]
7. The sermon challenged us to “strip away the trappings of religion” and live a life that points people to God. What is one “religious trapping” or habit you want to let go of, and what is one new practice you want to start to make your faith more compelling to others? [[01:08:37]]
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Close in prayer, asking God to help each person live a life that is truly compelling and points others to Him.
Devotional
Day 1: Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice and Examining Ourselves
The cross is the place where our sins met the wrath of God, and the price for our redemption was paid in full. As we come to the Lord’s table, we are called to remember not only what Jesus did for us, but also to examine our hearts honestly before Him. This act of remembrance humbles us, reminding us of the pit from which we were rescued and the grace that now clothes us. We are invited to reflect on our relationship with God and with others, discerning the body of Christ—His people—and ensuring we honor both God and our neighbors. In this sacred moment, we receive not condemnation, but life, healing, and mercy, as we confess our sins and receive His forgiveness. [11:52]
1 Corinthians 11:23-32 (ESV)
For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
Reflection: Before you take communion or pray today, pause and ask God to show you any area where you need to seek forgiveness or reconciliation—with Him or with someone else. What step can you take today to make things right?
Day 2: Living an Authentic and Compelling Christian Life
The world is hungry for authenticity, not religious performance. True Christianity is not about lip-syncing faith or merely knowing the right words, but about living a life so marked by Jesus that others are drawn to Him through us. Our lives should be compelling, not because of outward show, but because the reality of Christ is evident in our actions, our words, and our love for others. When we live out our faith with integrity, people notice the difference, and our testimony becomes persuasive, even to those who are skeptical or far from God. [34:50]
Acts 26:19-29 (ESV)
“Therefore, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance. For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”
Reflection: In what area of your life do your actions and words most need to align so that others can see the reality of Christ in you? What is one practical change you can make today to live more authentically?
Day 3: Abiding with Jesus—The Source of a Fruitful Life
The most important thing you can do as a Christian is to be with Jesus. Abiding in Him is the source of all spiritual life, power, and transformation. Without a living, daily connection to Christ, we can do nothing of lasting value. This abiding happens as we spend time in the Word, in worship, in prayer, and in fellowship with other believers. The more we are with Jesus, the more our lives bear fruit that points others to Him, and the more we are changed from the inside out. [51:03]
John 15:1-5 (ESV)
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
Reflection: What is one way you can intentionally spend time with Jesus today—whether in Scripture, worship, prayer, or with other believers—so that your life is rooted in Him?
Day 4: Becoming Like Jesus in Character and Conduct
A true disciple is destined to become like their teacher. As we follow Jesus, our aim is to be conformed to His image, not just in belief but in behavior. Holiness, kindness, patience, and love should increasingly mark our lives, setting us apart from the world. The best evidence of our faith is not in our words alone, but in the way we live—reflecting the character of Christ in all our conduct. [58:57]
1 Peter 1:13-16 (ESV)
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
Reflection: Think of one area of your character where you know you need to grow to be more like Jesus. What is one step you can take today to practice Christlike behavior in that area?
Day 5: Doing the Works of Jesus—Faith in Action
A compelling Christian life is not lived on the sidelines, but is active in doing the works of Jesus—bringing healing, hope, and practical love to others. We are called to continue His ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit, by praying for the sick, caring for the needy, and sharing the good news. When we step out in faith and do what Jesus did, our lives become powerful testimonies that draw others to God and bring glory to the Father. [01:01:00]
John 14:12-13 (ESV)
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”
Reflection: Who is one person in your life you can serve or pray for today in a way that reflects the love and works of Jesus? How will you step out in faith to do it?
Quotes
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