In the last article we saw how the Apostle Paul clearly illuminated that we are to walk in ‘newness of life’. Paul pointed out that as we enter a new life with Christ, the old life rooted in the world must be put to death. This new life is one of pursuing the full-time occupation of being a Christian; being Christ like.
With any new occupation we should become informed of what the new occupation’s job description is. There are many locations throughout the New Testament scriptures that does well at providing the various aspects of what is expected of a Christian; Colossians 3:10-17 is a good passage for providing the Christian job expectations. Read through the passage and observe those expectations mentioned. After reading through the passage use the chart in this article to reflect on how you rate in each quality mentioned. Use a scale of 0 – 10 as you reflect on the strength of each qualities presence in your daily living. This same chart can be used regularly to measure growth in these qualities that make up what the Christian profession is. Note that the quality of love is not love as the world understands it to be and it is comprised of its own set of characteristics as related in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. My book ‘Loveletics’ explores more fully this concept of love that a Christian is to reflect in the various interactions of their life and contains a chart as well for measuring and tracking growth in this highest form of love. As you take time to fill in the chart presented in today’s edition on Life’s Purpose, be honest with yourself. The only way we can truly grow in the right way is through honest assessments of who we are and where we currently are in our personal growth.
It is the purpose of a Christian’s life to live as God would desire. Every aspect of the Christian life should reflect these qualities. Do not lose heart, we all fall short of being a perfect 10; but that does not excuse each of us from striving to obtain it. Read Paul’s reflection in Philippians 3:7-16 regarding his own striving to become a perfect follower of Christ. As he points out in verse 15, this should be every mature Christians’ mind set. As Paul mentions in Philippians 1:20-21; it should be the earnest expectation of every disciple of Christ to live without shame in regard to their profession as a Christian. With all boldness and courage each should pursue it with all that is in them. The ultimate goal, the purpose of the life we live is to always magnify and exalt God and Christ in every aspect of our life.
Here is how Solomon concluded his search for life’s purpose. “Let us hear the conclusion of the entire matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Carl Hartman is Minister of Lockney’s Main Street Church of Christ.
