Rediscovering What It Means to Truly Follow Christ
Have you ever felt like your faith is missing something deeper? Like maybe it’s more about following rules than truly living out what you believe? The message of “You Have Not So Learned Christ” invites us to take a step back and ask what it really means to walk in faith—authentically and with purpose.
Faith as a Journey of Change
Faith isn’t just about attending church or reading the Bible. It’s about letting God transform who we are at our core. Imagine it this way: we all have old habits or ways of thinking that don’t serve us well. Faith is a process of saying goodbye to those things and stepping into a new way of living that’s shaped by the example Jesus set for us. In the book of Ephesians, especially Ephesians 5:1-2, we’re encouraged to imitate God. This means living a life filled with love, just like Christ showed us through His ultimate sacrifice.
Living Out Your Faith
Being a Christian isn’t just about knowing the rules; it’s about living in a way that reflects God’s love. A famous Christian Pastor, A.W. Tozer, once said that God’s message should be timeless yet relevant to our everyday lives. Whether you’re just starting your faith journey or have been walking in it for years, the goal is the same: to reflect God’s love in how you live, work, and interact with others.
What the Bible Teaches About Change
Ephesians 4 gives us a clear roadmap for how we can change. It talks about leaving behind our “old self”—the part of us that’s selfish or dishonest—and letting God make us new. Think of it like upgrading an old computer. You’re swapping out the outdated software for something fresh and better. This transformation makes us kinder, more honest, and more loving.
Walking in Christ’s Love
Ephesians 5:2 gives a vivid image of what it looks like to walk in faith. It describes Jesus’ sacrifice for us as a “sweet-smelling offering” to God. It’s a reminder that our faith isn’t just about what we believe but how we act. Are we kind to others? Do we show love in our daily lives? Living out Christ’s love is the heart of an authentic faith.
Staying True in a Distracted World
We live in a world filled with distractions—social media, news, and endless opinions. It’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. A recent message series called “Living God’s Way in a Pagan Society” highlighted these challenges. One key takeaway was the importance of reconnecting with the basics: understanding who Christ is and allowing Him to transform our lives. By focusing on the Bible and not the noise around us, we can stay grounded in what’s true.
The Call to Authenticity
Real faith isn’t about pretending to have it all together. It’s about being honest with yourself and letting God work on your heart. It’s not a one-time thing; it’s an ongoing process. Every day is a new chance to live more like Christ—truthfully, lovingly, and with integrity.
Making Love Your Guiding Principle
At its core, faith is about love. Not just the kind of love that says nice things but the kind people can feel through your actions. When we live out God’s love, others notice. It becomes a light that draws people in and shows them what faith is all about.
Conclusion
“You Have Not So Learned Christ” is an invitation to rediscover what it really means to be a follower of Jesus. It’s a challenge to step away from old habits, renew your heart, and live in a way that reflects God’s love in everything you do. By doing this, you not only glorify God but also inspire hope in others who are searching for meaning. Let’s take this to heart and strive to live lives that are a beautiful example of Christ’s love—a love that heals and inspires everyone around us.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 