Living in the Victory of Christ: Faith and Action
Summary
Eighty years ago, the world celebrated the defeat of Nazi Germany—a clear victory of good over evil. Yet, even after that victory, remnants of evil persisted. This historical moment mirrors our own spiritual reality: Christ has won the ultimate victory over sin, Satan, and death, but we still live in a world where the effects of evil linger. As followers of Jesus, we are called to live in the tension between the victory already won and the ongoing work that remains.
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15 remind us that the resurrection of Jesus is not just a theological detail; it is the very foundation of our hope and the spring from which all Christian life flows. The resurrection assures us that death has lost its sting, and yet, we are still called to live faithfully in a world marked by brokenness. Paul challenges us to put our faith before our flesh, to let our trust in Christ’s finished work shape every action, rather than striving to earn God’s favor through our own efforts.
It is crucial to distinguish between a works-based faith and a faith-led working life. We are not saved by our good deeds, nor do rituals or religious acts add to the grace Christ has already given. Like the thief on the cross, we are welcomed into God’s kingdom by faith alone. Our good works are not the means to salvation but the fruit of a life transformed by grace.
We must also decide, daily, whom we will follow. Jesus’ victory demands a response—there is no neutral ground. The world may offer the illusion of a “third way,” but Christ calls us to choose Him decisively. Our lives are not about earning participation trophies; we are called to allegiance, to pick a side, and to live accordingly.
Finally, we are exhorted to finish well: to be steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in the work God has prepared for us. This means resisting the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil—not in our own strength, but by relying on the Holy Spirit. God has already prepared good works for each of us, tailored to our unique circumstances and gifts. Our task is not to wait for the perfect moment, but to walk in obedience today, trusting that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.
Key Takeaways
- Faith Before Flesh: True Christian living begins with faith, not with our own efforts or religious rituals. We are not working our way into heaven; rather, we work because we are already on our way, secure in Christ’s victory. This distinction frees us from striving and anchors our motivation in gratitude and trust. [12:14]
- Victory Is Won, But the Battle Continues: Christ’s resurrection has decisively defeated sin and death, yet we still experience their effects in this world. Our hope is not in escaping struggle, but in living as beneficiaries of Christ’s triumph, confident that evil’s days are numbered. This perspective shapes how we endure suffering and loss, knowing that death no longer has the final word. [14:30]
- No Neutral Ground—Choose Whom You Will Follow: Jesus’ call is not for passive association but for active allegiance. The world tempts us with the idea that we can remain neutral or simply “be good,” but Christ insists that we must choose sides. Our lives are a daily declaration of whom we serve, and there is no participation trophy for indecision. [19:16]
- Steadfast and Immovable—Resisting Temptation with Strength and Skill: To finish well, we must be both secure in our knowledge of God and skilled in resisting the forces that seek to derail us—the world, the flesh, and the devil. This requires intentional time in Scripture, honest self-examination, and a willingness to stand firm even when resistance is costly. True strength is revealed not in yielding, but in persevering against temptation. [26:21]
- Abounding in the Work of the Lord—Obedience Today, Not Someday: God has already prepared good works for us, suited to our current season and circumstances. We are not called to wait for ideal conditions or to invent our own mission, but to walk in obedience, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Our labor is not in vain, and the fruit of our faith is meant to be visible in the ordinary moments of today. [34:16]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Victory in Europe Day and Spiritual Parallels
[02:57] - The Resurrection: Foundation of Our Faith
[04:46] - The Mystery of Transformation
[06:17] - Faith-Led Working Life vs. Works-Based Faith
[07:39] - Grace, Faith, and Good Works
[08:50] - Ordinances vs. Sacraments
[10:32] - The Thief on the Cross: Salvation by Faith
[12:14] - Putting Faith Before Flesh
[13:13] - The Ultimate Victory Over Death
[14:30] - What Victory Over Death Looks Like
[16:28] - Jesus’ Call to Choose Sides
[19:16] - No Participation Trophies in Eternity
[21:00] - Be Steadfast, Immovable, and Abounding
[23:20] - Knowing God and Testing Truth
[25:22] - Strength and Skill in Resisting Temptation
[27:53] - The Need for Both Strength and Skill
[29:30] - Abounding in the Work of the Lord
[31:16] - Trusting the Holy Spirit’s Leading
[32:45] - Faith Produces Obedience and Good Works
[34:16] - Obedience in the Present Season
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
---
### Bible Reading
- 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
(Main text of the sermon; Paul’s teaching on the resurrection, victory over death, and the call to steadfastness and abounding in the work of the Lord.)
- Ephesians 2:8-10
(“For by grace you have been saved through faith… not a result of works… For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”)
- Luke 23:39-43
(The thief on the cross: “Today you will be with me in paradise.”)
---
### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Corinthians 15:50-58, what does Paul say about the perishable and the imperishable? What is the ultimate victory he describes?
(see [04:46])
2. In Ephesians 2:8-10, what is the relationship between grace, faith, and good works?
(see [07:39])
3. What did Jesus promise to the thief on the cross in Luke 23:39-43, and what did the thief do to receive that promise?
(see [10:32])
4. In the sermon, what are the three “enemies” that Christians must resist as they seek to finish well?
(see [21:00])
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God”? What does this mean for how Christians should view their present lives and bodies?
(see [04:46])
2. The sermon draws a distinction between a “works-based faith” and a “faith-led working life.” Why is this distinction important, and how can misunderstanding it affect someone’s relationship with God?
(see [06:17])
3. The pastor said, “There is no neutral ground—Jesus calls us to pick a side.” What does it look like in everyday life to actively choose allegiance to Christ rather than trying to remain neutral?
(see [16:28])
4. Paul calls believers to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” What does it mean to be steadfast and immovable in the face of temptation from the world, the flesh, and the devil?
(see [21:00])
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon said, “We are not working our way into heaven; we are working because we are already on our way.” How does this truth change your motivation for serving, volunteering, or doing good works? Can you think of a time when you were motivated by guilt or fear instead of gratitude?
(see [12:14])
2. The pastor shared about the thief on the cross, who was saved by faith alone. Are there any “rituals” or “good deeds” you sometimes rely on to feel secure in your relationship with God? How can you remind yourself that your security is in Christ’s finished work?
(see [10:32])
3. The sermon challenged us to “decide daily whom we will follow” and warned against the illusion of a “third way.” Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to stay neutral or avoid making a clear choice for Christ? What would it look like to pick a side in those areas this week?
(see [16:28])
4. Paul calls us to be “steadfast and immovable.” What is one specific temptation or pressure (from the world, your own desires, or spiritual opposition) that you need to resist right now? What would it look like to stand firm in that area?
(see [25:22])
5. The sermon said, “God has already prepared good works for each of us, tailored to our unique circumstances and gifts.” What is one ordinary, everyday opportunity you have right now to walk in obedience? How can you take a step of faith in that area this week, rather than waiting for a “perfect” moment?
(see [34:16])
6. The pastor mentioned that “true strength is revealed not in yielding, but in persevering against temptation.” Is there a temptation or struggle where you have been giving in easily? What practical step can you take to resist it this week?
(see [26:21])
7. The sermon encouraged us to “walk in obedience today, not someday.” What is one area where you have been putting off obedience, waiting for better circumstances? What would it look like to trust God and act now?
(see [34:16])
---
Close in prayer, asking God to help each person trust in Christ’s victory, walk in faith, and abound in the good works He has prepared for them.
Devotional
Day 1: The Resurrection Is the Foundation of Our Faith
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event to be acknowledged, but the very cornerstone of Christian faith and hope. Without the resurrection, our faith would be empty, and the promises of God would be void. Paul reminds us that the resurrection is essential—it is the spring from which all the goodness of the Christian life flows. Because Christ has conquered death, we can live with assurance that our future is secure, and that the victory over sin and death is already won, even as we still experience the brokenness of the world. [02:57]
1 Corinthians 15:50-58 (ESV)
"I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: 'Death is swallowed up in victory.' 'O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
Reflection: In what ways does the reality of Christ’s resurrection give you hope and shape your perspective on the challenges you face today?
Day 2: Salvation Is by Grace Through Faith, Not Works
Our relationship with God is not earned by our own efforts or religious rituals, but is a gift received by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Good works, baptism, or participation in church ordinances do not add to the grace already given by Christ; rather, they are responses of obedience and gratitude. Like the thief on the cross, salvation is available to all who trust in Jesus, regardless of their ability to perform religious acts. This truth frees us from striving to earn God’s favor and invites us to rest in His finished work. [07:39]
Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV)
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you are tempted to rely on your own efforts to earn God’s approval? How can you intentionally rest in His grace today?
Day 3: Decide Whom You Will Follow—There Is No Neutral Ground
Jesus calls each person to make a clear decision about whom they will follow; there is no neutral ground or “participation trophy” in the kingdom of God. The world may offer the illusion that we can simply be “good enough” or avoid making a choice, but Jesus insists that we must pick a side. To follow Christ is to acknowledge His victory and to live in allegiance to Him, not merely as a friend or a distant figure, but as Lord and Savior. The call is urgent and personal: choose today whom you will serve. [16:28]
Matthew 12:30 (ESV)
"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have been trying to remain neutral or avoid making a clear commitment to Christ? What would it look like to fully choose Him today?
Day 4: Be Steadfast and Immovable—Resist the World, the Flesh, and the Devil
Living out our faith requires both security in the truth of who God is and active resistance against the forces that seek to draw us away—whether from the world, our own flesh, or the devil. Being steadfast means being rooted in God’s character and promises, while being immovable means having the strength and skill to withstand temptation and opposition. This is not a passive stance, but a daily commitment to hold fast to God’s Word, test what we hear, and rely on His help in every circumstance. [23:20]
Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV)
"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth."
Reflection: What is one practical way you can anchor yourself in God’s truth and resist temptation in a specific area of your life today?
Day 5: Abound in the Work of the Lord—Let the Spirit Lead Your Obedience
God has prepared good works for each of us, not as a means to earn His love, but as the natural outflow of a faith-filled life. We are not left to figure out on our own how to serve Him; the Holy Spirit empowers and guides us to walk in obedience, right where we are, in whatever season we find ourselves. Our calling is not to wait for perfect circumstances, but to be faithful today, trusting that God has uniquely equipped us for the works He has set before us. [29:30]
John 14:15-17 (ESV)
"If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you."
Reflection: What is one good work or act of obedience you sense the Holy Spirit prompting you to do today, and how can you take a step of faith to act on it?
Quotes
We need to avoid a works -based faith life and instead embrace a faith -led working life. And it's a subtle difference, but it's an important distinguishing that we need to make in our mind to avoid a works -based faith life that we're leading with our works instead of leading with our faith, a faith -led working life. [00:06:45] (27 seconds)
Behold, I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet, for the trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall all be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. [00:04:46] (24 seconds)
Our good works are like fruit, right? The Bible tells us this. An apple tree doesn't have to effort to produce apples. It's either planted in good soil, grows with good rainwater and sun, and then produces fruit, or it doesn't, right? Similarly, for us as believers, God has created you to produce...certain good works. He's given you the right personality, the right understanding, the right knowledge. He's not calling you to do anything that you may not be able to do. He's created you for the works that he prepared for you. [00:33:26] (40 seconds)
The promise from Jesus is that the Holy Spirit isn't just a spirit that exists in the world, but as a believer, it exists inside of you and inside of me, that the power of God drives us to action, right? [00:30:29] (23 seconds)
God has you in a season of life today, right now, where he is calling you to do the good works that he wants to produce in you. Our job is not to dream them up. Our job is to be obedient to them. [00:35:00] (15 seconds)
But I challenge you, leaving here today as you go back into your home, into your workplace, into your communities, into your families, that you take this with you and you apply it starting today. Not big picture, not years down the line, but what can I do today to put my faith before my flesh? How can I today decide to follow Christ? And how can I finish well? [00:35:15] (23 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 21, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?