A Practical Guide for Everyday Christians
Introduction: The Challenge of Keeping the Kingdom Holy
Let’s be honest—living as a Christian in today’s world isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it feels like everything around us is trying to pull us away from what Jesus taught. The challenge isn’t just about adhering to a set of rules or staying “good.” It’s about maintaining the distinction of the kingdom of God—our faith community—by being loving and holy. This commitment is important even when it would be simpler to just blend in. But this is exactly where our calling lies: to stand out by loving differently, just as Christ did.
What Does It Mean to Be Christian?
At its core, being a Christian means choosing to imitate Jesus. It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about letting our lives show the love, patience, and kindness that Jesus showed. Christians are called “followers” for a reason—we’re meant to follow his lead, especially when the path gets tough or unpopular. This identity sets us apart, not because we’re better than others, but because we’re trying to love like Jesus did.
The Obviousness of the Kingdom of God
God’s kingdom is meant to be visible. Not through flashy buildings or big events, but through everyday acts of love. When Christians forgive, help the hurting, or welcome outsiders, something different shines through. It’s like a light in the darkness—hard to miss and impossible to fake. The kingdom shows up wherever Christlike love is practiced, and people notice. This distinctness isn’t about being weird or separate for its own sake. It’s about showing a love that looks like Jesus.
Preserving the Distinctness of the Kingdom
Here’s the tricky part. It’s easy for the kingdom’s distinctiveness to get muddled. This happens when we start mixing it with worldly systems. Maybe we get caught up in politics, business, or social trends that don’t line up with Jesus’ teachings. The risk is that we lose sight of what makes us different. When the church starts looking and acting like everyone else, it misses the opportunity. The pursuit of power, fame, or wealth causes us to miss out on showing the world what Christ’s love truly looks like.
Healthy Suspicion Toward Worldly Powers
Jesus warned us not to put our ultimate trust in worldly powers. Governments, leaders, and movements do good things, but they aren’t the kingdom. Christians are called to keep a healthy suspicion toward anything that tries to take God’s place in our hearts. That doesn’t mean disengaging from society, but it does mean remembering where our true loyalty lies. The kingdom of God stands above every other system. We’re called to live in a way that keeps it holy and distinct.
Jesus’ Example in Troubled Times
When Jesus walked the earth, he faced plenty of political and religious division. Yet, he never let those conflicts define him or distract him from his mission. He loved people on all sides, spoke truth with compassion, and refused to get swept up in power struggles. Even when challenged, he chose humility and sacrificial love. In troubled times, Jesus set the example. He stayed focused on God’s kingdom and loved everyone, no matter how difficult or unpopular.
Practical Application: Living Out Calvary Love
So, how do we live out Christlike love in everyday life? It’s often simpler—and harder—than we think. Here are a few practical ideas:
· Forgive Quickly: When someone hurts you, let go of grudges and choose forgiveness, just like Jesus did.
· Help the Overlooked: Reach out to people who are lonely or ignored. A kind word or small act can make a big difference.
· Speak Truth Gently: Stand up for what’s right, but do it with kindness and humility.
· Stay Generous: Share your time, money, and attention with those in need, not just those you like.
· Pray for Enemies: Instead of arguing or fighting, pray for those who disagree with you. It’s tough, but it’s powerful.
These actions aren’t about earning points or looking holy—they’re about reflecting Christ’s love in real, tangible ways.
Conclusion: The Difficult Simplicity of the Kingdom
In the end, the kingdom of God is simple, but not easy. It’s about loving others with a sacrificial, humble love that stands out in a world obsessed with power and popularity. Keeping the kingdom holy means resisting the urge to blend in or chase after what everyone else values. Instead, we’re called to embody a love that is distinct, visible, and deeply rooted in Jesus. Let’s commit to living out the simplicity and beauty of Christ’s kingdom—one loving action at a time.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 