NINE ESSENTIALS. for a CHRISTIAN S LIFE CHARLES MCGREGOR

Transcription

1 NINE ESSENTIALS for a CHRISTIAN S LIFE CHARLES MCGREGOR

2 Copyright 2015 by Charles McGregor Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life by Charles McGregor Printed in the United States of America ISBN All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the written permission of the author. Bible quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

3 Contents O Foreword...v Introduction... vii Essential #1 Salvation and Assurance...9 Essential #2 New Life in Christ Jesus...17 Essential #3 The Bible...21 Essential #4 Prayer...29 Essential #5 Fellowship...37 Essential #6 Witness...47 iii

4 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Essential #7 Service...55 Essential #8 Get Connected...61 Essential #9 Never Give Up...71 Other Books by Charles McGregor...81 iv

5 Foreword O As I have traveled around the world for the last thirty years, I have watched the world progress technologically but regress morally and spiritually. In the search for self-gratification, many Christians have laid aside the Word of God. As a result, they have lost or watered down the essentials for living a Christian life according to the Bible. Pastor Charles McGregor, a dear, close friend of mine, has written a book, not about religion or theology, but a book that gets to the heart of Christianity. I believe this book, Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life, will make the difference in how well you succeed as a Christian. Dr. Buddy Bell, Evangelist and Teacher of Ministry of Helps for All Churches v

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7 Introduction O Christianity is not just an experience; it is a lifestyle. The way you live your life. It is believed by many today that if you live in a country that was founded on Christian principles you are a Christian. It is my desire to guide you through the Holy Scriptures and the precepts of Christian life detailed in its pages. I am convinced as Christians we can have the assurance in our hearts that when we leave this world we will have eternal life with Christ Jesus. This assurance begins as Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3:3: Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God. Let s focus on the following nine essentials that will give you the assurance of salvation and victory in your everyday life. Life is a journey that should be enjoyed instead of endured. Jesus said to His disciples, The vii

8 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life words that I have spoken unto you are words to bring you joy. viii

9 Essential #1 Salvation and Assurance O The following Scriptures will emphasize salvation is not earned or deserved. It is, simply put, a gift from God, who sent His Son out of His unfathomable love for all His children. Salvation in the original Greek is soteria. It means deliverance or rescued from the power and dominion of sin and from the tragic consequences of their own sin. This spiritual deliverance is graciously and lovingly offered immediately by God to all people; but only those who repent and trust in Jesus, His Son, will experience its blessings. This great plan of salvation includes all people, regardless of race, color, or religious belief. 9

10 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Romans 10:8-10: 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. John 3:16 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. God loved us so much He sent His Son. John 5:24 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 10

11 Salvation and Assurance We will not be condemned. Romans 8:1 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. John 10:27-29 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father s hand. Acts 4: Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation 11

12 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Our salvation is found only in Jesus. Romans 3: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. We all deserve death for our sins but are redeemed by God s grace. Romans 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:8 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Jesus died for us while we were still sinners. 12

13 Salvation and Assurance Romans 8: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. 1 John 1:9 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we confess our sins, we are forgiven and cleansed from it. 13

14 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life 1 John 5:1 1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. The Word of God assures us we have eternal life. 14

15 Salvation and Assurance Essential #1 Salvation and Assurance Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What is salvation? 2. What is the purpose of salvation? 3. What are you saved from? 4. How is salvation received? 5. Is there anything one can do to earn salvation? 6. Who is included in the offer of salvation? 7. We all deserve death but we are redeemed by what? 8. What can separate us from the love of God? 9. Explain in your own words what it means to receive salvation, using specific references from your own life. 15

16 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 16

17 Essential #2 New Life in Christ Jesus O At the moment of salvation we became new creatures. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. That is, we receive the benefits of being restored by Christ to what God had originally created us to be. A believer s life should change because he or she is being transformed into the likeness of Christ. Instead of living for oneself, a believer lives for Christ. Instead of evaluating others with the values of the world, as a Christian we look at this world through the eyes of faith. Again, salvation is not just an experience, but also a daily life of faith in the Word of God. 17

18 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Matthew 22: Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. We are to love God and love others. Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. We are saved by God s grace, not by our works. Romans 8:29 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. God is at work in us, making us Christlike. 18

19 New Life in Christ Jesus Essential #2 New Life in Christ Jesus Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What happens at the moment of salvation? 2. How has your life changed since you accepted Christ as your Savior? 3. What commandment is the first and greatest? 4. And the second? 5. There are no works that we can do to save ourselves. Does this free us to do whatever we please? 6. Why or why not? 7. What determines how we are to behave? 19

20 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 20

21 Essential #3 The Bible O The Bible is God s revelation to humankind and it teaches us much about who God is and who we are in Him. Throughout the Bible we are called to be in relationship with God. The Word of God is of utmost importance to Christians because it teaches, rebukes, corrects, and shows us how to live a holy life. The Bible is not only worthy of our examination, but also for us to memorize as much as possible. David, a man after the heart of God, said in Psalm 119:11, Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. The following verses reflect the importance of the Bible. 21

22 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Deuteronomy 6:6-9 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. God s commands are to permeate our lives. Deuteronomy is basically the last will and testament of Moses. In this will he challenged Israel to remain faithful to the covenant, reminded them of their past history, and pointed to their future of blessings or cursings in the land of Canaan, depending upon their belief and behavior. It was not really the Law of Moses, but the Law of God. Since God promised to bless generation after generation, He expected His people to follow His ways from generation to generation as well. 22

23 The Bible Psalm 1:2-3 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. We flourish when we delight in God s Word. Psalm 1, a wisdom psalm, presents a vivid contrast between the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. The psalm is like a beacon of light piercing the darkness of a stormy night, and points to the truth even when the falsehoods of our culture begin to cloud our thinking. By the way, the Hebrew word for man in this context means person, without reference to gender. Psalm 119:9 9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. Obeying God s Word keeps us from sin. The Hebrew word torah, translated law, basically means instruction or direction. It 23

24 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life also refers to the first five books of the Old Testament. The Lord gave His law to a people with whom He had already graciously established a covenant relationship (Exodus 20:2). The law was the means for the Israelites to learn how to live as God s holy people. 2 Timothy 2:15 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. What is approved is what remains after the trials. The Word of God is to be rightly handled. That is, we cannot take the Word of God that is meant to give us instruction and direction for our lives and interpret it to fit our desires or to enable us to do as we please. Otherwise He is not the Lord of our lives. 2 Timothy 3: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 24

25 The Bible The Word of God thoroughly equips us for life. The word doctrine means teaching. Reproof means conviction. Correction refers to setting something straight. Instruction refers to the process of training. Thoroughly equipped can also be described fully prepared. Right doctrine (teaching) should produce right practice. Hebrews 4:12 12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The Word of God judges our thoughts and attitudes. It will also expose the natural and spiritual motivations of a believer s heart. James 1:22 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 25

26 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life We are not only to read the Word of God, but we are also to obey it and apply it to our daily lives. To hear and not obey is to be deceived. 2 Peter 1:21 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. The Word of God is inspired by the Holy Spirit. God chose holy men to be His spokesmen; men who uttered thoughts given to them by the Holy Spirit. 26

27 The Bible Essential #3 The Bible Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What is the Bible? 2. Who inspired the writing of the Bible? 3. Why do we need the Bible? 4. What role does it play in our Christian lives? 5. The five books of the Old Testament are known as what? 6. What is the law meant for? 7. Why should we memorize the Bible? 8. If we interpret the Bible to fit our desires and enable us to do as we please, who is lord over our lives? 9. What are some of the things the Word of God is good for? 10. Make a plan to study God s Word. If you need help, ask the person who gave you this book or contact New Beginnings Church. 27

28 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 28

29 Essential #4 Prayer O Prayer is simply talking with God as we would with anyone else that we love and trust. Prayer is essential to fulfill our relationship with God. We bring our desires, hopes, and fears to God, and we can be assured they are heard if there is no hidden sin in our hearts. We must trust that He will provide deliverance. Philippians 4:6-7 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, 29

30 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Be anxious for nothing means to pray about your circumstances instead of worrying over them. To guard your circumstances means the peace of God will protect your heart and mind from external corrupting influences and will keep them focused on God s truth. Psalm 119:18 18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. We can pray for God to open our eyes to understand His Word. Psalm 139: Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. We can pray and ask God to examine our thoughts and purge us of sin so that we might enter into everlasting life. 30

31 Prayer Matthew 6: And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. 8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 31

32 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Those who pray with improper motives have their reward like those who do charitable deeds with improper motives. Why we pray determines how we pray. There is nothing wrong with repeating prayers; Jesus refers to the empty recitation of words. Luke 22:40 40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. Jesus said, Pray that you may not enter into temptation. Ephesians 6:18 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. 32

33 Prayer Without prayer, all the armor in the world would be of no use. Praying always: General prayers and specific petitions in the Spirit are to be made for all believers and at all occasions. Perseverance and patience in prayer are essential. Luke 5: But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. 16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. Jesus made prayer His priority. Ephesians 3:12 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. We have access with confidence by the faith in Christ Jesus. Hebrews 4:16 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain 33

34 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Come in the Greek is draw near. Because Jesus did priestly work, believers can approach the presence of God. The writer of Hebrews is expressing the openness of God s call in Christ. Boldly is the same as confidence and means fearlessness and courage. Believers should approach God in prayer because He is the throne of grace, and our High Priest, Jesus, sits at His right hand interceding for us. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 17 Pray without ceasing. We are to maintain a faithful prayer life like Jesus. Praying without ceasing does not mean praying constantly, but being consistent in prayer. Just as with any relationship, lack of communication will cause a break in intimacy. For an intimate, connected relationship with God, constant communication is essential. 34

35 Prayer Essential #4 Prayer Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What is prayer? 2. What are some things we should pray about? 3. Are repetitive prayers bad? 4. What makes a prayer effective? 5. How can we know that our prayers are being heard? 6. Who is our ultimate example in what type of prayer life we should have? 35

36 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 36

37 Essential #5 Fellowship O The church is a community of people who were all sinners in the beginning and were saved by the grace of God. God wants us to be in relationship with one another. As we have fellowship with one another, we get to know them that labor among us, and draw strength, wisdom, and knowledge from each other. Jesus drew Himself aside at times and just had simple fellowship with His disciples. He was on the shores of Galilee having a fish cookout. Another time they went to the mountains together. Fellowship is very good but must be with those who will bring Godly principles into our lives and will not bring reproach. 37

38 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life 1 Corinthians 1:9 9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Fellowship is sharing something in common. During the days of His ministry, Jesus was introducing the Father to the disciples and therefore teaching them fellowship. Acts 2:42 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. New believers are to be trained into the fellowship of the church, just as Jesus taught the disciples. Fellowship, simply put, is sharing in the lives of other believers. Psalm 122:1 1 I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord. There is joy and laughter in going to the house of the Lord. 38

39 Fellowship John 13: A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Love one another that the world may see Christ in us. Acts 2:42 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. We learn and grow in fellowship by reaching our community. Romans 12:15 15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. We rejoice and weep with others. 39

40 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life 1 Corinthians 1:9 9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. We have fellowship with God. 1 Corinthians 12: For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if 40

41 Fellowship they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked. 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. We are members of one body. 41

42 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Galatians 6:1-2 1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 Bear ye one another s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. The term fulfill means to bear another Christian s burdens; restore another Christian from burdensome sin (vs. 1). This is precisely what Christ expects of all believers. Hebrews 10: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. God works through us when we meet together. 1 John 1:3 3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may 42

43 Fellowship have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 6:14, Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 43

44 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Essential #5 Fellowship Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What is fellowship and why is it important for believers to engage in it? 2. What are some ways to engage in fellowship? 3. How do we learn and grow in fellowship? 4. What is the final goal of fellowship? 5. Should a believer have fellowship with an unbeliever? 6. Why or why not? 7. Who should we seek out to fellowship with? 8. One of the best places to find other believers to fellowship with is at church. Find a local church that you can feel comfortable at and find other believers who will lead you to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ. Be sure that you are surrounding yourself with people who will draw you closer to Christ, not pull you away. Are there people in your life that you need to separate from and break fellowship with? God will show 44

45 Fellowship you and help you to have Godly fellowship in your life. Just ask. 45

46 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 46

47 Essential #6 Witness O Witnesses are people who tell others what they have seen or heard about Jesus and the Word. Jesus told His twelve disciples they would be witnesses. The same is true for His children (disciples) today. Jesus uses us to share the Gospel with the helpless, hopeless, hurting, and the lost. These are the ones He went to the cross for. We must also remember that being a witness is not just what we say to someone, but also the greatest witness is how we live out the Word in our everyday lives. 47

48 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life I can t hear what you are saying because I see what you are doing. Ralph Waldo Emerson (paraphrased) Matthew 4:19 19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Jesus calls us to be fishers of men. Matthew 5:16 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Our good works point others to God. Acts 1:8 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 48

49 Witness The Spirit of God empowers us to be witnesses for Jesus. Acts 4:20 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. True disciples can t help sharing what they have seen and heard about Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ s stead, be ye reconciled to God. Colossians 4:5 5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. We are to make the most of an opportunity to witness to the unsaved. 1 Thessalonians 2:8 8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, 49

50 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. We share the Gospel as well as ourselves, including our personal experiences. 2 Timothy 2:2 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. God s Word is meant to be passed along to everyone we meet. Philemon 1:6 6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. We are to actively share our faith. 1 Peter 3:15 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a 50

51 Witness reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. People may recognize our faith and ask why we have such joy and hope. 51

52 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Essential #6 Witness Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What does it mean to serve others? 2. Why do we do that as believers? 3. What prompts us to serve? 4. What are we to give ourselves fully to? 5. List some of the ways all believers are to serve. 52

53 Witness Personal Notes 53

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55 Essential #7 Service O Serving God by serving others is something that grows out of our love for God and thankfulness to Him for what He has done for us. Jesus has a clear mission: For even the Son of Man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). It is a mission of service He desires His followers to carry out also. Everyone who wants to live for Jesus will carefully listen for His call to service. 1 John 3:14 14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the 55

56 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 1 Corinthians 15:58 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. We are to give ourselves fully to God s work. Galatians 5:13 13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. We are to serve one another in love. Ephesians 2:10 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. 56

57 Service God has prepared good works for each of us to do. Colossians 3:17, And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. 23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. We do all for the Lord and His glory. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. We should never get tired and give up when we are living the Word of God. Hebrews 9:14 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 57

58 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life We are saved and born into the Kingdom of God to serve the living God. James 1:27 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. We are to look after orphans and widows. James 4:17 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. We sin when we knowingly neglect God s work. 1 Peter 4:10 10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. We are to use our spiritual gifts to serve others. 58

59 Service Essential #7 Service Questions for a Christian s Life 1. Everyone who wants to live for Jesus will carefully listen to His call to do what? 2. What are we to give our lives fully to? 3. How are we to serve one another? 4. What good works has God prepared you to do? 5. What should we never do when we are living the Word of God? 6. What are we doing when we knowingly neglect God s work? 7. What are we to use our spiritual gifts for? 59

60 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Personal Notes 60

61 Essential #8 Get Connected O When you accept Christ as your Savior, you need to separate yourself from things and people that would draw you away from Him. To have an abundant life in Christ, you must be connected to Him daily, but you also must be connected to other believers. 2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 61

62 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Separate yourself from people who are not like-minded. Do not let people draw you away from your connection with Christ. Start today, right now, culling through your relationships and get rid of those who are not following Christ. It may seem harsh, but the friends that you make will make you. John 15:5-8 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. Christ describes His people as branches. When reading through the Bible, you will see many references to abiding in Him, and this means being connected. It just means living in Him. A vine has many branches but 62

63 Get Connected they are all connected to the vine. If one is dead it must be removed for the health of the others. Keep abiding, living, and drawing strength from God by being connected to other believers. To bear fruit you must be connected to the vine (Christ) but also to the other branches (other believers) through Christ. He is the life source, but they are essential for much fruit (more believers) to be produced. 1 Corinthians 12: For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? 63

64 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked. 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 64

65 Get Connected 1 Corinthians 12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:14 For the body is not one member, but many. Just like a physical body, we are connected and when one hurts, others suffer. It is important for all believers to be part of a body of believers, connected to a group of people who are like-minded, who want to worship and serve God. This is essential to a life in Christ. There is not one member of the body that is more special than another, but all work together to the glory of God. All are connected and all are focused on staying connected to Christ. Hebrews 10: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: 65

66 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. This connection means daily contact with other believers, helping them and letting them help you. Assembling of ourselves together, includes not just for church services, but also for fellowship and for times of service to spread the Gospel. Include times of encouraging and even pressing each other to continue in the faith. It is absolutely vital that believers stay connected to the body of Christ. Without being connected to Godly people you will not continue to grow in Godliness! Without being connected to the Vine and being supported by other branches you will wither and die spiritually. Get connected, stay connected, and you will be successful in your life with Christ. 66

67 Get Connected Essential #8 Get Connected Questions for a Christian s Life 1. What are two word pictures the Bible uses to describe the relationship believers have with other believers and all believers with Christ? 2. Second Corinthians 6:14 (KJV) uses the phrase unequally yoked. What does this phrase mean? (Other versions of the Bible may help you.) 3. In God s description of believers as the body, in 1 Corinthians 12:12-26, what part of the body is the most important? 4. What are some ways you can connect with other believers? Where are some good places to go to connect with others who share your faith in Christ? 5. Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV) uses the word exhorting. What does this mean and is this possible without a connection and a relationship with other believers? This Scripture isn t just referring to attending to church but connecting with others in daily life. 67

68 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life 6. Is it essential for believers to stay connected to each other? Can you stay connected to Christ without other believers? Does connection with other believers make connection with Christ easier? Why or why not? 68

69 Get Connected Personal Notes 69

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71 Essential #9 Never Give Up O Your life in Christ should be a wonderful life. As I said previously, Christianity is not just an experience, but a lifestyle. In the letter Paul wrote to the church at Corinth he said, If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:19). But of course we know that our serving Christ and living a Christian life is not just to benefit us while we are on earth, but there is also eternal life that God has promised to them that will live Godly in Christ Jesus. We must also remember that the life we live is a legacy that we are leaving for our family and everyone we know. 71

72 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Even though there are times we may fall short of what we should be, we are still covered in the great plan of salvation God has provided for us. 1 John 2:1-2 1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. If we are not careful, we can focus too much on our failures, causing us to see ourselves as failures. A quote I heard many years ago that has helped me through many difficult situations follows: A winner is the person that gets up one more time than he was knocked down. We all make mistakes through life s journey, and the price of those mistakes can be costly. We must remember that the 72

73 Never Give Up prize is given to the one who stays true to the end. Think of the person who invented the lightbulb. He failed over a thousand times in getting his invention to work. When asked how he felt about being a failure over a thousand times he replied, I was never a failure; I only found a thousand ways the lightbulb wouldn t work. Aren t you and I happy that he didn t consider himself a failure and stop trying to make his invention a success? I really enjoy having lightbulbs when it gets dark. We know the cost of everything we do, but we have no idea of the value that is proven over time. Thomas Edison knew the cost of the time he spent to make the lightbulb, but he had no idea as to the value of what he had done. Likewise, we know of the trials, disappointments, and sorrows that we have gone through while living in a world that is so imperfect. But we don t have a clue as to the value of getting up one more time than we have been knocked down. We never know how we are affecting someone who is watching us. Someone is always watching your life; you just may not realize it. 73

74 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Genesis 28:15 15 And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of. God told Jacob: I m not going to give up on you because I haven t accomplished everything I have planned for your life. If God hasn t given up, then why should we? The unsaved may be out of God s will, but not out of His reach. You honor God when you see them not as failures, but as His works in progress. Besides, who assigned us the task of vengeance? God occupies the only seat on the supreme court of heaven. He wears the robe and refuses to share the gavel. 1 Samuel 17:26 26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised 74

75 Never Give Up Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? We all remember David and Goliath, right? In this verse David shows up discussing God. No one else was discussing God! David discusses no one else but God. David sees what others don t and refuses to see what others do. All eyes, except David s, fall on the brutal, hate-breathing hulk. The people knew his taunts, demands, size, and strut. They majored in Goliath. David majored in God. They saw the giant, mind you; David just saw God more so. Look carefully at David s battle cry: You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel (1 Samuel 17:45). Let us ask God to train us to walk on His path; teach us to see Him in situations that are dangerous and difficult. Like David, when we are surrounded by overwhelming challenges, let our thoughts and words turn first to God. Instead of discussing the problem, let s be reminded to discuss God. Let our first thought in the morning and our last thought at night be centered on God. Rather than worry about the impossibilities, let us major in God s 75

76 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life mighty power. When we are tempted to look at the giants in our lives, we will choose to look at God. Psalm 18:46 46 The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted. Let the God of my salvation be exalted! Psalm 89:5 5 And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O Lord: thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints. 2 Corinthians 5:7 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. Romans 8:28 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. The apostle Paul summed it up well when he said, I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). 76

77 Never Give Up SO CAN YOU! NEVER GIVE UP! 77

78 Nine Essentials for a Christian s Life Essential #9 Never Give Up Questions for a Christian s Life 1. Even though many times we fall short of what we should be, what has God provided for us? 2. What should we be careful not to focus too much on? 3. In the story of David and Goliath, when everyone else was discussing the giant, who was David discussing? 4. Instead of focusing on our problems first, where should our focus be? 5. Rather than worry about the impossibilities, what should we major in? 6. When we are tempted to look at the giants in our lives, what should we do instead? 78

79 Never Give Up Personal Notes 79

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81 Other Books by Charles McGregor O Gifts of the Spirit Provoking Thoughts Hear the Word of the Lord How Would Jesus Vote? Visit for ordering information.

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