What Does It Take To Be A Better Christian?
INTRO: Do we want to be better Christians? Now before you answer, understand it does not happen just because we vocalize a desire to be a better Christian. Today I want to deal with this subject. Not a message with all the answers or a certain number of fail-proof steps that will transform any of you nor myself into a "Super Christian." It will look at some things that must be present to move closer to the Lord and become a "better" Christian.
So how do we gauge better? What is the standard? Well it is obvious that we all may have different standards, so we must look to The Standard, God's Word.
Having said that, let me look at my first point.
We need a…
Life that has a longing for God's Word in our lives - De. 8:3
Want It - To the point we hunger and thirst for It
Like It To the point it is special in our lives and we make room for It
Use it - To the point we live it
We know life exists with more than knowledge of God's Word, we also need a…
Life that is filled with firm faith - John 5:24
We can see that this builds upon - the Word.
We have a life that is filled with firm faith because it…
Grows in the Word - How can we believe without a preacher…"
Leaps or results in salvation
We must believe He is and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him
Speaks to others (both believers and unbelievers)
Life that is let go - 2 Cor. 4:11
Lose our ego (pride) -
Lose our sin - Heb. 12:1 "…lay aside every weight and the sin…"
Lose our self - Romans 12:1
Life with a lofty goal of worshipping the Lord - Phil. 1:2
Live Christ crucified (aware of His death and grace)
Lean on or talk with Him daily
Laud Christ (worship)
Life with real love for the brethren - 1 John 3:14
God is love - 1 Jn. 4:8
Our "brethren" are to be loved and vice versa
Love is a choice - John 3:16 (are we loveable or does God love us?)
Gary Marcum - New Beginnings Church - 112804am