Living an Authentic Life Transformed by Christ
Summary
In Acts 26, Paul stands before King Agrippa and Festus, not as a performer or pretender, but as a man whose life has been radically changed by Jesus. He declares that he was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but instead lived out his faith in a way that compelled even kings to consider Christ. This is the kind of authentic, compelling life that the world desperately needs today—a life that is not just a performance, but a genuine reflection of Jesus.
We live in a time when many are searching for what is real. The world is weary of religious lip-syncing—people who know the right words and actions but lack the substance of a transformed life. Recent scandals and public deconstructions of faith have only heightened the hunger for authenticity. Like a controlled burn in a forest, God is using these shakings to clear away the excess and make room for new, vibrant growth. There is a generation rising that is not satisfied with surface-level religion; they want a faith that is deep, life-changing, and real.
The call is to live a life so marked by Jesus that others cannot help but notice. Jesus said that our good works should be so evident that people glorify God because of them. Authentic Christianity is not about having perfect doctrine or outward displays of religiosity, but about a life that matches its confession. The disconnect between what we say and how we live is what undermines the witness of the church. True faith is always proven in practice—what we really believe is revealed in how we actually live.
To live a compelling life, three things are essential: First, be with Jesus. Abide in Him, spend time in His presence, in His Word, in worship, and among His people. Second, become like Jesus. Let your character and conduct be shaped by His example, aiming for holiness and Christlikeness in all things. Third, do the works of Jesus. Step out in faith to love, serve, pray, and bring healing and hope to those around you. When we live this way, our lives become persuasive testimonies that draw others to Christ, not by our words alone, but by the undeniable evidence of God at work in us.
Key Takeaways
- Authenticity in Christ is not about outward performance but about a life transformed from the inside out. The world is not looking for more religious actors, but for people whose lives are so real and compelling that even skeptics take notice. When our words and actions align, we become living invitations for others to encounter Jesus. [04:24]
- The hunger for what is real is God-given and often intensified by seasons of shaking and exposure. Just as a controlled burn clears away what hinders new growth, God uses trials and even failures in the church to strip away the superficial, making room for genuine faith to flourish. This is an invitation to let go of empty religion and pursue a faith that is vibrant and life-giving. [07:48]
- True discipleship is measured not by knowledge alone, but by the fruit of our lives. It is possible to know all the right doctrines and still miss the heart of God if our lives are not marked by love, integrity, and obedience. The difference between a believer and a disciple is seen in behavior—demons believe, but they do not obey. Our faith must be visible in our conduct. [20:45]
- Abiding in Jesus is the source of all spiritual power and transformation. Without a living, daily connection to Christ, our efforts are empty and unfruitful. The most important thing we can do is to be with Jesus—through the Word, worship, prayer, and fellowship—because it is His presence that changes us and makes our lives compelling to others. [25:42]
- A compelling Christian life is one that continues the works of Jesus in the world. This means stepping out in faith to love, serve, pray for, and minister to others, both in word and deed. When we do the works of Jesus, empowered by His Spirit, our lives become powerful testimonies that draw people to God and bring glory to the Father. [35:37]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:14] - Paul’s Defense Before King Agrippa
[03:33] - Milli Vanilli and the Danger of Pretending
[04:24] - The Search for Authentic Christianity
[07:48] - A Generation Hungry for the Real Jesus
[09:10] - Living a Life That Points to God
[11:05] - The Problem with Religious Argument
[13:12] - Knowledge Without Practice
[15:07] - The Disconnect Between Words and Deeds
[17:55] - The Dunning-Kruger Effect and Self-Deception
[20:45] - Faith Proven by Works
[22:55] - Being Recognized as Having Been with Jesus
[24:28] - Three Essentials for a Compelling Life
[25:42] - Abiding in Jesus: The Source of Fruitfulness
[29:11] - Meeting Jesus in the Word, Worship, and Community
[34:49] - Becoming Like Jesus in Character
[35:37] - Doing the Works of Jesus
[41:12] - Practical Ways to Live a Compelling Life
[42:47] - Responding to God’s Call
[43:57] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living a Compelling Life in Christ
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### Bible Reading
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.”
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### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul say he was not disobedient to, and how did that shape his actions before King Agrippa? (Acts 26:19)
2. According to Paul’s testimony, what message did he consistently share with both Jews and Gentiles? (Acts 26:20-23)
3. How did Festus and King Agrippa respond to Paul’s defense, and what does this reveal about their perception of Paul? (Acts 26:24-28)
4. In the sermon, what modern examples were given to illustrate the difference between authentic faith and “lip-syncing” religion? [04:24]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is Paul’s refusal to be “disobedient to the heavenly vision” so significant for understanding what it means to live an authentic Christian life? (Acts 26:19) [01:14]
2. The sermon compares recent church scandals and public deconstructions of faith to a “controlled burn” in a forest. What is the purpose of this metaphor, and how does it relate to God’s work in the church today? [07:48]
3. The sermon says, “True faith is always proven in practice—what we really believe is revealed in how we actually live.” How does this idea challenge the way many people approach their faith? [15:07]
4. What does it mean to “abide in Jesus,” and why does the sermon say this is the source of all spiritual power and transformation? [25:42]
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### Application Questions
1. Paul’s life was so marked by Jesus that even kings took notice. Is there an area of your life where your faith is visible to others? If not, what is one step you could take this week to make your faith more evident in your daily actions? [09:10]
2. The sermon warns against “religious lip-syncing”—knowing the right words but lacking a transformed life. Are there areas where your words and actions don’t match? What is one specific change you feel called to make? [04:24]
3. The message describes a generation hungry for what is real, not just surface-level religion. How can you pursue a deeper, more authentic relationship with Jesus this month? What would that look like practically? [07:48]
4. The sermon lists three essentials for a compelling life: being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing the works of Jesus. Which of these do you find most challenging, and why? What is one practical way you can grow in that area this week? [24:28]
5. “Abiding in Jesus” is described as spending time in His presence, in the Word, in worship, and with His people. Which of these practices do you need to prioritize or return to? What is a realistic goal you can set for yourself this week? [25:42]
6. The sermon says, “True discipleship is measured not by knowledge alone, but by the fruit of our lives.” What kind of “fruit” do you want to see more of in your life? How can you intentionally cultivate that fruit in your relationships or workplace? [20:45]
7. Doing the works of Jesus means stepping out in faith to love, serve, pray, and bring hope to others. Can you think of a specific person or situation where you could do the works of Jesus this week? What will you do, and how can the group support you in this? [35:37]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for courage to live authentic, compelling lives that reflect Jesus, and for the Spirit’s help to align words and actions for God’s glory.
Devotional
Day 1: Authentic Faith Is Proven by Action, Not Just Words
True Christianity is not about outward performance or religious lip service, but about a life that is transformed and marked by genuine obedience to God. Many can say the right things, attend church, and appear spiritual, but if their lives do not reflect the teachings and character of Jesus, their faith is empty. Authentic faith is demonstrated in the way we live, love, and serve others, not just in what we profess. The world is hungry for the real Jesus, and it is our lived-out faith—our actions, integrity, and compassion—that persuades others to consider Christ. [04:24]
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 are your actions not matching your words about following Jesus, and what is one step you can take today to bring your behavior into alignment with your faith?
Day 2: Abiding with Jesus Is the Source of a Compelling Life
The most important thing you can do as a Christian is to be with Jesus. Abiding in Him is the source of spiritual power, transformation, and fruitfulness. Without a living, daily connection to Christ—through His Word, worship, prayer, and fellowship with other believers—our lives become empty routines rather than compelling testimonies. When you intentionally seek Jesus’ presence, you are changed from the inside out, and your life becomes a witness that draws others to God. [25:42]
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: Where and how can you intentionally seek to be with Jesus today—whether in Scripture, worship, prayer, or with other believers—so that your life is rooted in Him?
Day 3: Becoming Like Jesus Is the Goal of Discipleship
A true disciple is not just a student of Jesus’ teachings but is being transformed to become like Him in character and conduct. The evidence of authentic faith is seen in a life that increasingly reflects Christ’s holiness, love, and integrity. As you pursue Christlikeness, your words, actions, and attitudes become a living testimony to the world, showing that you have truly been with Jesus. [34:49]
Luke 6:39-40 (ESV)
He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.”
Reflection: What is one specific area of your character or conduct that does not yet look like Jesus, and what practical step can you take this week to grow in Christlikeness in that area?
Day 4: Doing the Works of Jesus Demonstrates the Gospel
A compelling Christian life is not lived on the sidelines but is active in doing the works of Jesus—bringing healing, hope, and help to others. Jesus calls His followers to continue His ministry by proclaiming the good news, caring for the needy, praying for the sick, and loving the broken. When you step out in faith to do what Jesus did, your life becomes a powerful testimony that points people to God’s reality and love. [35:37]
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, pray for, or show the love of Jesus to today, and how will you take action?
Day 5: Christlike Character Is the Best Evidence of Grace
The best proof that you are a Christian is not your knowledge or religious activity, but the fruit of Christlike character—love, kindness, integrity, and holiness—evident in your daily life. When your faith is lived out in practical ways, it glorifies God and draws others to Him. The world is full of empty words and broken promises, but a life marked by the goodness of Jesus stands out and persuades others to seek Him. [41:54]
Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Reflection: Which fruit of the Spirit do you most need to cultivate in your life right now, and what is one way you can practice it today?
Quotes
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