Preacher: KANOBANO Jean Baptiste
Living for Christ is not merely a set of actions but a complete transformation of the heart, mind, and soul. The Bible provides clear guidance on how to live for Jesus, reflecting a life surrendered to Him, guided by His teachings, and aligned with His will.
The Apostle Paul provides a profound example in his writings. He considered everything that was once of value to him as loss for the sake of Christ. In Philippians 3:8, Paul says, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” This mindset challenges believers to let go of earthly gains and focus on eternal rewards.
Dying to the Flesh and Living a New Life
One of the key aspects of living for Christ is dying to the sinful nature and embracing a new life. Colossians 3:1 reminds us, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” Baptism symbolizes this transformation. It is an outward declaration that we have been crucified with Christ, buried in death with Him, and risen to walk in newness of life.
To live for Jesus, we must crucify the flesh, as Paul writes in Galatians 5:24, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” This means burying sinful tendencies and putting to death worldly behaviors, such as lust and other vices that can enslave us.
Focusing on Eternal Things
Nothing in this world is free from struggle and suffering. However, the Bible reassures us of a better country, a heavenly one, where there will be no disease, no pain, and no sorrow (Hebrews 11:16). As followers of Christ, we are reminded that our true life is hidden in Him. When Christ, who is our life, appears, we will also appear with Him in glory (Colossians 3:4).
This hope compels us to live a life that is pleasing to God, striving to reach the fullness of Christ. It requires constant growth in faith, obedience to His Word, and dedication to living a holy life.
Removing Idols and Fixing Our Eyes on God
Living for Jesus also involves removing anything that competes for God’s place in our lives. Idolatry, in any form, provokes God’s anger. Colossians 3:5 warns, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.” As believers, we are called to live with our eyes fixed on God, knowing that He desires a life of peace and trust, free from fear and idolatry.
Conclusion
Living for Christ is a journey of continual surrender, transformation, and growth. It is about embracing the truth that our old self has been crucified and that we now live in the power of His resurrection. As we follow Jesus, we are called to love God and others, bear the fruit of the Spirit, and proclaim His gospel to the world.
Through trials and victories, our focus remains on eternal things, knowing that when Christ is revealed, we will share in His glory. May we all strive to live for Christ, walking in the fullness of His grace and reflecting His love to the world around us.
Written by IRANZI Olivier
Produced by IDC CEP UR HUYE.
