May 10th, 2020 – Morning Devotion With Pastor Dan
(Ephesians 4:20-24)…..But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.
Here are some thoughts this morning on what a believers (Christian) walk should look like
We were taught to – put off – our former conduct – What is our former conduct you might ask? Our – former conduct – how you behaved before you were saved. You know that flesh nature that defines the sinner’s life. The old man is never content – he grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts (sin always takes new ground). We are to be – renewed in the spirit of our mind. Our old nature must not control us any longer – (Romans 12:1-2). We are to put on the new man which was created according to God – (Colossians 3:9-10). Created in true – righteousness – holiness (true holiness)
I want to remind us of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. The word “disciple” literally means a – follower – learner. The goal in becoming a disciple – is to be like one’s teacher – (Luke 6:40). So God’s goal in redemption is that we are conformed to the image of His Son. Read: (Romans 8:29).
Would you consider yourself to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? To be a disciple of Jesus Christ has to mean more than being just a casual church member. Are you one who shows your love for Him through obedience? – (John 14:15) says, If you love Me, keep My commandments. Are you one who continues (abides) in the words of Jesus – (John 8:31-32) says, Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Are you one who loves the brethren – (John 13:34-35) says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Are you one who is bearing much fruit – (John 15:8) says, By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. Is the love you have for the Lord so deep – that anything in comparison would seem worthless (Luke 14:26-33).
Anything less – it cannot be said that we are truly His disciples!