Jesus is Essential
John 17:18–19: As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.
It is not enough merely to study the Bible and learn a great deal of doctrinal truth. We must also love Jesus Christ more as we learn all that He is and all He has done for us. Learning and loving should lead to living, allowing the Spirit of God to enable us to obey His Word. This is how we glorify Him in this present evil world. The Word gives us joy, love, and power to live a holy life. It also gives us what we need to serve Him as witnesses in this world.
Sanctification is not for the purpose of selfish enjoyment or boasting; it is so that we might represent Christ in this world and win others to Him. Jesus set Himself apart for us, and now He has set us apart for Him. The Father sent Him into the world, and now He sends us into the world. We are people “under orders” and we had better obey! Jesus is now “set apart” in heaven, praying for us, that our witness will bear fruit as many repent of their sins and turn to the Lord. 1
Walking with Jesus
Would you allow Jesus to send you wherever He wants? If he wants to place you in a lower paying job would you go? He if wants you to move, would you? Are you willing to give up a few of life’s comforts to be an ambassador for Him? Is your relationship with God based on you negotiating the best deal with Him?
Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
A living faith is a lived out faith.
Praying
Lord, thank You for praying for me to be set apart for Your purposes in this world.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
