We Are the Body of Christ (Final)

"I cannot see how any man deserves to be called "holy," who willfully allows himself in sins, and is not humbled and ashamed because of them."  - J. C. Ryle

During these past several weeks, we've seen that Christ has laid the foundation for our reconciliation; has paid the price for it, has purchased, both, the offer and promise of it, proclaims it as a prophet, and applies it as a king.

We've also learned that our redemption is obtained: a) through his blood (Colossians 1:14); b)he has made peace through the blood of his cross (Colossians 1:20); c) and, in his physical body through death (Colossians 1:22).

We mustn't forget that it was Christ's blood that made an atonement (reparation). For the blood is the life; and without the shedding of it there is no remission (Hebrews 9:22).

It was so valuable that, as a result of the shedding of it, God was willing to negotiate new terms with men to gather them under a covenant of grace; and for his benefit; and in consideration of his death on the cross, to pardon and favorably accept all who abide by the terms.

Therefore, our lives are holy, and we must separate them from our earthly nature. This means that we must put into practice the various graces of the Spirit. In other words, we must not only "talk the talk," but "walk the walk," as well. 

In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul stresses the importance of this. He teaches that we should hold back our anger and hate, and show compassion and kindness; stop sinful behavior, and exercise doing good; not hurt others, but help them, instead (Colossians 3:12).

As a church, or body of believers, we should carry out all good things that are agreeable to the righteous law and good will of God. These include those things that go hand in hand with salvation, such as: hearing the word, following decrees, all matters of the church relating to public worship, conferences and meetings, including those regarding the discipline and laws of the church.

And let's not leave out all things that are civilly, morally, spiritually, and evangelically beneficial; including all things that God would've done, or we would hope should be done to us by others and fellow Christians alike. These should all be performed with grumbling or arguing (Philippians 2:14). 

It is our responsibility to shine as lights in the world. There is not one church member so insignificant that he or she cannot deliver the word of life. Nor is there one member who is so irrelevant as to be exempt from the obligation to do so. And there is no one who can't do something in relation to this work. 

Should there be any confusion or questions as to how this may be done, here is a short list of options to try:

1. Do it by example. In this way, everyone has the opportunity to deliver the living word.

2. Make an effort to get the gospel into the hands of those who don't have it. We can all contribute something to make this happen.

3. Do it through conversation. There isn't one Christian who doesn't have some influence on the hearts and minds of others. Use that influence to teach the word.

4. Defend the divine origin of religion whenever the need arises.

5. Rebuke sin, thereby testifying to the importance of holiness

The world depends on the church for any reliable and righteous views of God, and the process of salvation. Every Christian is to do his or her part in sharing this information. We must be a good model to others. Fortunately, for us, we have an excellent example to follow (1 Peter 2:9).

Members of the church (believers) are quite often referred to as God's chosen people (1 Peter 1:2). We are a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession (1 Peter 2:9). We have been given a blessed and honorable testimony by God.

We are the Lord's people, a chosen generation; chosen before the beginning of the world (Ephesians 1:4). We, the church, have been chosen to be Christ's companion, spouse, and people, on whom he makes his love shine forever; giving everything that is transferable from him here in grace, and in the world to come.

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:7; Leviticus 19:2; Philippians 4:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:4; Philippians 1:10

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to always strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see You, amen.

May the Lord bless,

Shawna