Living Unashamed: Boldly Embracing Our Faith in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Today, we reflect on the theme of living unashamed for Christ, inspired by Paul's letter to the Ephesians. Paul, despite being imprisoned for his faith, urges believers to live a life worthy of their calling, emphasizing humility, gentleness, patience, and love. He reminds us that we are part of one body, one spirit, and one hope, and that God is over all, through all, and in all. This unity and divine presence should embolden us to live unashamedly for Jesus, regardless of societal pressures or personal fears.
Paul's imprisonment serves as a powerful reminder that the gospel of Jesus Christ is not a message to be hidden but proclaimed boldly. He encourages us to reject the fear of man and embrace the power of the gospel, which is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. This call to live unashamed is not just about bold declarations but also about embodying the values of the kingdom through purity, passion, and the proclamation of God's power.
Living unashamed requires us to pursue purity by dealing with our darkness and aligning ourselves with God's will. It also involves possessing passion, understanding that our faith is not just about personal salvation but about living out the principles of the kingdom. Lastly, we must proclaim the power of the gospel, recognizing that it is not our strength but God's power that works through us.
Paul's life and writings challenge us to see our faith as a foundation to build from, not just a crutch to lean on. By living unashamed, we can bring light into the darkness, impacting others and drawing them closer to Christ. This commitment to live unashamed is a daily decision, one that requires courage, boldness, and a deep reliance on God's power and presence.
### Key Takeaways
1. Live a Life Worthy of Your Calling: Paul urges us to live a life that reflects our calling in Christ, characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, and love. This means embodying the values of the kingdom in our daily interactions and decisions, knowing that we are part of one body and one spirit. [05:09]
2. Reject the Fear of Man: The fear of being misunderstood or persecuted can often lead us to hide our faith. Paul reminds us that we are not alone and that God is over all, through all, and in all. We must reject the fear of man and live boldly for Christ, knowing that the gospel is the power of God at work. [11:41]
3. Pursue Purity: Living unashamed requires us to pursue purity by dealing with our darkness and aligning ourselves with God's will. This involves a daily commitment to confess our sins and seek God's cleansing, ensuring that we live with a pure heart and clear conscience. [21:42]
4. Possess Passion: Our faith should be marked by passion, not just for personal salvation but for living out the principles of the kingdom. This means embracing the cost of discipleship and allowing God's ways to shape our lives, leading to a vibrant and impactful faith. [26:47]
5. Proclaim the Power of the Gospel: The gospel of Jesus Christ is not just good news; it is the power of God at work. We must boldly proclaim this power, recognizing that it is not our strength but God's power that brings salvation and transformation. This proclamation can change lives, cities, and nations. [32:28]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:57] - The Year of the One
[03:38] - Paul's Imprisonment and Message
[05:09] - Living a Life Worthy of Your Calling
[06:27] - Unity in the Body of Christ
[07:20] - Prayer for Boldness
[08:03] - Personal Embarrassing Moment
[10:34] - The Pain of Shame
[11:41] - Rejecting the Fear of Man
[12:36] - Characteristics of Living Unashamed
[13:24] - Light Penetrates Darkness
[14:07] - Testimony of Krish
[18:03] - The Good News of Christ
[20:09] - The Power of the Gospel
[21:42] - Pursuing Purity
[26:47] - Possessing Passion
[32:28] - Proclaiming Power
[34:54] - Shame Off You
[35:36] - Being Light in the World
[37:01] - Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living Unashamed for Christ
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 4:1-6 (NIV)
> "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
2. Romans 1:16 (NIV)
> "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile."
3. Matthew 10:26-31 (NIV)
> "So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
#### Observation Questions
1. What characteristics does Paul urge believers to embody in Ephesians 4:1-6? How do these characteristics contribute to living a life worthy of our calling? [05:09]
2. According to Romans 1:16, why is Paul not ashamed of the gospel? What does he say the gospel represents? [18:03]
3. In Matthew 10:26-31, what reasons does Jesus give for not being afraid? How does He illustrate God's care for us? [23:46]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Paul's imprisonment in Ephesians 4:1-6 serve as a powerful reminder for us to live unashamed for Christ? What does this teach us about the cost of discipleship? [03:38]
2. What does it mean to "live a life worthy of your calling" in practical terms? How can humility, gentleness, patience, and love be demonstrated in our daily lives? [05:09]
3. How does the concept of unity in Ephesians 4:1-6 challenge our individualistic culture? What steps can we take to foster unity within our church community? [06:27]
4. In what ways does the fear of man hinder us from living boldly for Christ, as discussed in the sermon? How can we overcome this fear? [11:41]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you felt ashamed or hesitant to share your faith. What was the outcome, and how could you handle it differently next time? [11:41]
2. Identify one area in your life where you struggle with humility, gentleness, patience, or love. What practical steps can you take this week to improve in that area? [05:09]
3. Think of a time when you allowed the fear of man to dictate your actions. How can you remind yourself of God's presence and power in similar situations in the future? [11:41]
4. Pursuing purity involves dealing with our darkness and aligning with God's will. What specific darkness do you need to confront in your life, and how will you seek God's cleansing? [21:42]
5. Passion for the kingdom means embracing the cost of discipleship. What sacrifices might God be calling you to make in order to live out the principles of His kingdom more fully? [26:47]
6. Proclaiming the power of the gospel requires boldness. Who is one person in your life that you can share the gospel with this week, and what will you say to them? [32:28]
7. How can you actively contribute to the unity of the body of Christ in your local church? What specific actions can you take to promote peace and unity? [06:27]
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the theme of living unashamed for Christ, inspired by Paul's teachings. Use these questions to foster meaningful discussion and encourage practical application in your daily lives.
Devotional
### Day 1: Living a Life Worthy of Your Calling
Paul urges us to live a life that reflects our calling in Christ, characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, and love. This means embodying the values of the kingdom in our daily interactions and decisions, knowing that we are part of one body and one spirit. Living a life worthy of our calling involves a conscious effort to align our actions and attitudes with the teachings of Jesus. It is about being intentional in our relationships, showing kindness and compassion, and striving to be peacemakers in a world that often promotes division and strife.
By living in this manner, we not only honor God but also become a testament to His transformative power in our lives. Our conduct can inspire others to seek the same peace and purpose that we have found in Christ. This daily commitment to live out our faith authentically can have a profound impact on those around us, drawing them closer to the love and grace of God. [05:09]
Ephesians 4:1-3 (ESV): "I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Reflection: Think about your daily interactions. How can you show more humility, gentleness, patience, and love in your relationships today?
### Day 2: Rejecting the Fear of Man
The fear of being misunderstood or persecuted can often lead us to hide our faith. Paul reminds us that we are not alone and that God is over all, through all, and in all. We must reject the fear of man and live boldly for Christ, knowing that the gospel is the power of God at work. This boldness is not about being confrontational but about being confident in the truth of the gospel and willing to share it with others, regardless of the potential backlash or misunderstanding.
Living unashamed for Christ means prioritizing God's approval over human approval. It involves a shift in perspective, where we see our identity and worth as rooted in Christ rather than in the opinions of others. This can be challenging, especially in a culture that often values conformity over conviction. However, by trusting in God's sovereignty and presence, we can find the courage to stand firm in our faith and be a light in the darkness. [11:41]
Galatians 1:10 (ESV): "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you are tempted to hide your faith due to fear of others' opinions. How can you take a step towards boldness in that area today?
### Day 3: Pursuing Purity
Living unashamed requires us to pursue purity by dealing with our darkness and aligning ourselves with God's will. This involves a daily commitment to confess our sins and seek God's cleansing, ensuring that we live with a pure heart and clear conscience. Pursuing purity is not about achieving perfection but about being honest with ourselves and God about our struggles and seeking His help to overcome them.
Purity is about more than just avoiding sin; it is about actively seeking to live in a way that honors God. This means being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions, and striving to reflect Christ in all that we do. It also involves being accountable to others and seeking support and encouragement from fellow believers. By pursuing purity, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be effective witnesses for His kingdom. [21:42]
Psalm 51:10 (ESV): "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to seek God's cleansing and renewal? How can you make a daily commitment to pursue purity in that area?
### Day 4: Possessing Passion
Our faith should be marked by passion, not just for personal salvation but for living out the principles of the kingdom. This means embracing the cost of discipleship and allowing God's ways to shape our lives, leading to a vibrant and impactful faith. Passionate faith is characterized by a deep love for God and a desire to serve Him wholeheartedly, regardless of the challenges or sacrifices involved.
Possessing passion involves being intentional about nurturing our relationship with God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. It also means being willing to step out of our comfort zones to serve others and share the gospel. Passionate faith is contagious; it inspires and motivates others to seek a deeper relationship with God. By living with passion, we can make a significant impact on our communities and the world for Christ. [26:47]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: Reflect on your current level of passion for your faith. What steps can you take to reignite your passion and live more wholeheartedly for God?
### Day 5: Proclaiming the Power of the Gospel
The gospel of Jesus Christ is not just good news; it is the power of God at work. We must boldly proclaim this power, recognizing that it is not our strength but God's power that brings salvation and transformation. This proclamation can change lives, cities, and nations. Sharing the gospel is not just about words but also about demonstrating God's love and power through our actions and the way we live our lives.
Proclaiming the power of the gospel involves being intentional about looking for opportunities to share our faith and being prepared to give an answer for the hope that we have. It also means living in a way that reflects the transformative power of the gospel, so that others can see the difference that Christ has made in our lives. By proclaiming the gospel boldly and authentically, we can be instruments of God's grace and truth in a world that desperately needs it. [32:28]
Romans 1:16 (ESV): "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Reflection: Think of one person in your life who needs to hear the gospel. How can you share the power of the gospel with them this week, both in words and actions?
Quotes
1. "And on top of that, that we're going to be a part of life. And on top of that, we would believe that God would speak to us and give us someone that we would have on our heart as our one. I talked to these little cards. There may be some still available at the information desks. I'm not sure. But this card where it just simply says the one and on the back it said, in 2024, I believe God is asking me to disciple dot, dot, dot. And I've been encouraged by so many amazing stories of what God is doing in people's lives and through their lives as they've believed God." [01:57] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "How many know that Jesus is the light of the world? And when light enters darkness, darkness cannot exist. And therefore, there is this conundrum that went on because the light was being preached, but the Romans of the day liked their darkness. And because it was counter-cultural to what they liked. How many know? When light hits darkness, reaction takes place. And because of that, they imprison Paul to try to shut him up. And he pens this letter to the followers of Jesus, to you and I, much like it would be, I would say, in our 2024 reality of Christianity. Where we're actually at a point in time that if we're not careful, we will be taught, told, or fed a lie that we should keep our Christianity to ourselves. Because it's offensive." [03:38] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Be reminded, this God we serve is over all and through all. And he is in all. No matter how lonely of a place you might find yourself because of your faith. Paul says, we are all in this together. And good news, God is over it. God is through it. And God is in each one of us. To see his kingdom come and his will be done. So the title is simply this for today. Over the next 20 minutes, we're going to look at this reality that I am not ashamed." [06:27] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The reality is for you and I is that we are not born again and saved by the blood of Jesus just to keep it to ourselves, but actually God himself asks us to not just hold on to it, but to live out our faith. And this is why Paul writes, I urge you, I'm stuck here right now, but I'm not gonna let my prison dictate my declaration. And some of us, have had far too long in our lives where we've held on to our faith for the fear of being misunderstood, for the fear of being persecuted or for the reality of being persecuted. But Paul urges us not to live with the fear of man. But actually as followers of Jesus, he says, we are required to live a life worthy of the calling of heaven." [11:41] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It always overpowers darkness. It's actually you and I realizing we're not just having a faith that is to ourselves, but we're carrying the hope of the world on the inside of us. And when we make a commitment to live unashamed through gentleness, through humbleness, through love, through unity, other people's lives won't just get better, they'll actually come to know Christ. And as I said, in this year of the one, I'm hearing so many amazing testimonies of what God's done." [13:24] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Paul is appealing to us in prison with chains because he's come to realise our confession, our faith, our life matters in light of eternity for other people. And so we can't walk around thinking we possess bad news or that the gospel doesn't just bring power. We need to realise it is power. And it's important to note that he distinguishes the reality of its power because to the Romans, power was everything. You'll understand that the Greeks were all about philosophy, but the Romans of the time were all about power. And so he wants to remind the Romans, while he's still in prison and in chained, as much as he wants to remind the Christians, the followers of Christ, that the gospel holds ultimate power, that nothing else can overturn the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ." [20:09] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We often live ashamed of our faith because we know our weaknesses and we think our weaknesses disqualify us. But again, it was Paul that wrote in 2 Corinthians because he had a revelation of it. Every time. Jesus said, My grace is all you need. My power, Jesus says, works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, Paul says, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That is why I take pleasure, what a thought that is, in my weaknesses and in the insults, the hardships, the persecutions and the troubles that I suffer for Christ, my faith. For when I am weak, I am strong." [33:16] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We need to pursue purity. We need to possess passion, but we need to proclaim, the good news of Jesus. Proclaim the power that is in the gospel because it has the power to set you and I free. It has the power to change cities and nations. It has the power to bring an answer to a broken and a hurting humanity. And His name is Jesus. I am not ashamed because it is the power. It is the gospel. It is, and He is the answer." [37:01] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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