ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 7

G – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 7

Again we look at an attribute of the heart but one that shows outwardly – steadfastness.  David knew he had sinned and in his repentance he prayed that God would renew a steadfast spirit within him.  Ps.51:10   So what is steadfast and do we need that?  Steadfast is unwavering, immovable, committed, and dedicated.  This would certainly be an important attribute of a Christian.  Prov.11:19

Steadfast describes our Lord..  Heb.13:8   In describing Jesus, the writer of Hebrews summarizes His work and ends with You are the same and Your years will not come to an end.  Heb.1:10-12 (Ps.102:27)  Our Lord is steadfast and will not change.

The O.T. provides examples of steadfastness, as well.  Ruth was a beautiful example of this attribute as she set her mind to go with Naomi, her mother-in-law.  Ruth 1:18   She could not be persuaded to do otherwise.  Her strong determination is stated in Ruth 1:16,17

Steadfastness is shown in the case of the Rechabites.  They were told to do things against the teaching of Jonadab.  They refused to go against what they had been taught.  They remained steadfast in this decision.  Jer.35:8-10  God rewarded them for their steadfastness.  Jer.35:18,19

Daniel was a faithful man of God that remained steadfast throughout all his life from the time of a young man until he became old.  One of the first times was when he refused the dainties of the king’s table.  Dan.1:8  He showed himself to be of great strength in body and spirit because of his decision.  Later in life Daniel remained steadfast in his prayer life in spite of disobeying the king.  God saved Him in a great way.  Dan.6:22   His resolve caused God to be glorified.  Dan.6:26,27

During the lifetime of Jesus he said many times that His hour was not yet come.  However, when that time had come, even though it meant His death eventually, he steadfastly set His face toward Jerusalem.  Lk.9:51

When we become a Christian, just how committed are we to remain steadfast in our Christian walk.  The beginning of the Christian walk may be with enthusiasm to follow Jesus all the way.  Yet that enthusiasm often fades.  We are to hold fast to the confidence we have in Christ who is our hope firm until the end.  This is steadfastness.  Heb.3:5,14

Paul rejoiced in the Colossians in that they remained stable in the faith even though he had not been with them.  Col.2:5   Epaphras had taught them well and they had accepted it.  Now it was bearing fruit in their lives.  Col.1:6   This was constant since the day they heard and accepted the gospel.

A Christian who has stability is solid in Christ-like attitudes and actions.  He is not blown about by every wind of doctrine.  Eph.4:14   Even though the doctrine does not follow the Truth of the Scriptures, some think the people are so nice.  They become our friends and so we go with them.  We cannot follow every “nice” person.  We are to follow Christ and the Truth.  We need stability or steadfastness in our faith.

Peter warns against those that distort the Scriptures.  We have to be on guard lest we are carried away by false teaching which makes us fall from our steadfastness.  2 Pet.3:17,18

It would be better to grow in knowledge of Truth and follow our Lord.  Peter gives another warning in 1 Pet.5:8,9.  It is necessary to stay firm in our faith.  Friendship becomes a strong factor in moving away from our faith.  Jam.4:4   Who do we confide in the most and with whom do we spend the most time?  Do our friends help us grow in Spirit and Truth?  These questions should cause us to seriously consider if we are being led away from our steadfastness by friendship with the world.

Whether it is friends that are not Christians or other entanglements with the world, we can be conquerors through Christ.  Rom.8:37   Paul uses sports as an example.  Just as one who competes must discipline his body, so we must use self-control to remain steadfast to the end to have that eternal wreath.  1 Cor.9:25

The author of Hebrews also uses the idea of a race.  Did you ever attend a track meet where a runner just stopped or changed course?  This is what some Christians do.  They begin well.  Then they stop or change course because of entanglements with the world.  A race requires endurance and fixing the eyes upon the goal.  Heb.12:1,2   Jesus is our example.  During a race, a person sweats and gets tired but they keep going.  What joy there is at the end when the goal is attained.

We need to say with Paul, “Press on.”  Phil.3:14   We have not yet arrived but we keep getting closer.  Only God can see when that goal will come.  Ps.31:15   However, we press on and remain steadfast to the end.  Col.1:23

What keeps a boat secure?  An anchor.  Our hope is our anchor.  Heb.6:19   This anchor of hope will keep us steadfast and we will then have the promise that those of Laodicea had in Rev.3:21   We must be overcomers.  Then we can sing with David.  Ps.57:7

Steadfastness requires effort but what a glorious reward in the end.  1 Cor.15:58

ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 6

F – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 6

The attributes of a Christian, although seen outwardly by the world, come from within—in the heart and the mind.  We are not born with these attributes, but as a Christian we have a will to develop them and grow more like our Master.

Peace is one of these attributes.  It is more than just an absence of conflict, whether it is between family, friends, neighbors, nations or even our conflict with God in not obeying His will for us.  Conflict within our soul disrupts our life in many ways.  Our peace with God is the most important and can resolve that conflict within our soul.  Ps.122:8

David combines our spiritual peace with righteousness.  Ps.85:10   In order to have peace with God, we have to respect His wishes for us.  In other words—obey.  Ps.85:8   Peace comes from our Lord.  1 Kgs.2:33   As Micah was giving a prophesy concerning Jesus, this fact is stated.  Micah 5:4,5   Jesus was called the “Prince of Peace.”  Isa.9:6  

Isa.32:17 gives us a beautiful picture of peace within—quietness and confidence.  In life there is often that phrase, “if only.”  Isa.48:18 presents an important “if only.”  If we would only listen to our Lord, believe in Him, and follow, we could have that desired peace.  Unrighteous living will not produce peace.  Isa.48:22  

Because of our faith in Jesus, we achieve this peace with God.  Rom.5:1   Conflict and every kind of disorder may raise its ugly head around a Christian, but with the help of Jesus living in us (Eph.3:17), God in us (Eph.3:19), and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Eph.3:16) in us, we can still experience a serene peace within.

Some of our desires detract from inner peace.  We want to possess, attract, achieve certain things that might be poor stewardship or might destroy our spiritual life.  Matt.6:19-21   Too often earthly desires drown out our spiritual desires.  Matt.6:33   We possess or achieve and then are not satisfied.  We want more.  1 Jhn.2:15,16   The more we have, the more anxious we become and this destroys our peace.  Phil.4:6,7

Peace with God is of utmost importance and we certainly strive for inner peace.  Our peace-searching does not stop there.  A Christian attribute is peace with everyone.  Rom.12:18   Occasions do arise in which peace seems impossible.  If this is the situation, it must not be because of the Christian.  We must remain peaceful and pray for the one with whom there is conflict.  Matt.5:44  

It seems that those of the world are always at odds with someone.  This attribute of peace differentiates between the world and the Christian.  Mk.9:50   We are to be salt of the earth but if the salt within us is lost, we loose our effect on the world.  First, we need to have the peace within us and then strive to be at peace with everyone.  As an example, think of a person in deep pain or loss.  The outward expression of their life is quite a contrast.  A person of the world might be totally depressed or show a bitter attitude and maybe even curse.  That is not the way of one who is at peace with a hope in eternity.  Rom.3:16-18; Rom.8:6

As we go about our day, we make choices.  Do we make choices that will cause disruption and conflict or choices that give peaceful solutions.  Rom.14:19   As Paul closes his letter to the Corinthians, he exhorts them to live in peace.  2 Cor.13:11   This would not only be true of a congregation but also of families and neighbors.  We are to make peace.  Matt.5:9   How blessed to be called a “son of God.”

The Jews and Gentiles in the early church had conflicts.  Paul reminds them that they are now a new creation so the conflicts should cease.  Gal.6:16   As we became a Christian, we also became a new creation.  Eph.4:23,24   We received the gracious gift of the Holy Spirit.  Part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit is peace.  Gal.5:22

Because of this gift from which we grow the fruit of peace, we are filled with joy and peace.  Joy can overflow if we have peace.  Without the hope that we have in Christ, joy and peace would both be absent.  Rom.15:13   The peace of God is beyond understanding, but it is our guard for our hearts and minds.  Phil.4:7   This is the core of our peace which was mentioned at the beginning of this lesson.  Not only does the peace of God guard our hearts but the peace of Christ rules our hearts.  Col.3:15   Our hearts and minds need to be guarded against disruptions of peace for to be Christ-like we need to have that peace.  Our desire should be so strong to be a glory to our Lord that the peace of Christ would have power over us and rule our hearts.  This peace of God is so strong in guarding our hearts that Satan will be crushed as he attempts to disturb our peace.  Rom.16:20

James likens the Christian life to a crop.  What do we sow?  We need to be like the mustard seed.  It may be small but with proper care and by the grace of God, it can grow into something large and useful.  Jam.3:18   We want a harvest of righteousness but it must be sown in peace.  This harvest comes with effort just as in raising a crop.  Heb.12:14   A peaceful attitude will be very visible to the world and glorify our Lord. 

1 Pet.3:9-11   To attain our hope of heaven, we need to be found in peace.  2 Pet.3:13,14

Jesus knew there would be tribulation on earth.  His Word teaches us what our reaction should be.  Jhn.16:33   Our peace is in Christ.  Our focus must remain steadfastly on Him.  Isa.26:3

ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 5

E – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 5

“Lord, give me patience and give it right now.”  Probably you have heard this statement in jest and yet, so often we mean it.  Patience is something we all need.  We may have a small amount until we cannot stand it any longer and poof—what do we do.  Scripture gives us examples and exhortation regarding patience.  Many problems of life in this world come from a lack of patience.

Patience includes suffering, enduring, or waiting.  As in the case of other attributes, patience comes with a determination of the will.  It is an attribute for which a Christian works and grows.  It definitely is a contrast and visible to the world. 

We are told to wait for the Lord.  Ps.40:1   This psalm gives the results when David waited on the Lord.  Sometimes we pray and can’t understand why our request is not answered when we think it should be.  God knows when and how it is best for us.  Wait patiently and develop our trust as we know He will do what is best.  Ps.37:7  .The lack of patience of often associated with anger and pride.  Eccl.7:8   One translation is “long of spirit.”

Our culture is so fast-paced.  The market is filled with items that are “instant.”  We “don’t have time.”  “I can’t bother with that.”  “Hurry up.”  Other phrases could also indicate our lack of patience.  Many outcomes of this lack occur today.  Some would be “road rage,” anger causing divorce, child abuse, murder, loss of job, relationships.  Anger is a great outcome of impatience and causes many atrocities.  Our tongue can be controlled with patience.  A consideration of the above makes patience of extreme importance.

Some word translations may give a clearer picture of all that is involved in patience.  Jam.5:10,11   James reminds us first of the patience of the prophets.  They prophesied by the inspiration of God of things they never did get to see come to pass and yet they endured suffering because of their prophecies.  Job is given as another example of one who endured much suffering, yet was faithful and blessed because of it.  Job was willing to learn in spite of suffering.  Job.34:32 (stated by Elihu)  After all was taken from Job, his response was Job 1;21,22   God blessed Job after his endurance and longsuffering.  Job 42:10   Job is synonymous of patience.

Paul uses himself as an example of God’s patience.  He calls this patience unlimited as Paul continued persecuting Christians.  Yet in God’s unlimited patience, Paul was finally converted to serve the Lord.  1 Tim.1:16   How unlimited has God’s patience been with our past and perhaps even now.

Abraham was given a promise by God.  Abraham waited with patience for years before that promise was fulfilled.  He never lost faith during that time but that God would do what He said.  Heb.6:13-15  

As Christians do we expect to receive a reward immediately for what we do for the Lord?  Our hope is built with patience for we wait for a greater reward than could ever be achieved on this earth.  Heb.6:10-12   A farmer is used by James to illustrate patience.  He plants the seed but then he must wait with patience to reap what he sowed.  Jam.5:7   The slave that owed his master a large sum of money pleaded with him to have patience to be paid.  In other words—wait.  Matt.18:26

Paul admonishes the Thessalonians to be patient with everyone.  This is more of a long-suffering rather than a waiting for them.1 Thess.5:14   In dealing with people in various relationships we need to be longsuffering as we realize that many times they need to be longsuffering with us.  Patience with people involves several other Christian virtues.

Don’t we have more patience with those we love?  The “royal law” quoted by Jesus includes loving your neighbor as yourself.  As we have a sincere love for every person, we are able to have more patience with them. Rom.12:9; Lk.6:32; 1 Pet.1:22

  Compassion is another virtue important in patience.  If we can feel for that person in their situation, then we can have more patience with them.  Col.3:12; Phil.2:1,2   The Lord shows great compassion on us and does not deal with us as we deserve. Ps.103:8-10   This is the attribute we need to show. 

We will also have more patience with someone we get to know better.  This will help us understand their problems and personality and perhaps give us a clue as to the problem that cause the need of patience with them.  Prov.14:29

A Christian needs to have patience with everyone.  Eph.4:2   Tolerance for one another will help our patience grow.  This is indicative of forbearance.  One of our goals should be to walk worthy of the Lord.     The above are times that we must have patience as we have relationships with others

What about the times we need patience with those that are dealing with us?  There are times when Christians do suffer wrong.  Patience with prayer needs to be extended to and for them.  1 Pet.2:20,21; Matt.5:44   Christ was our example in this.  If you are praying for someone, it is much easier to have patience with them.  Prophets of old are also an example of patience in suffering.  How strong is our endurance and forbearance for our Lord in times of wrong against us.  Many times this is by way of mouth but many other ways are also used.  Remember our Lord.  Days of trouble may be ahead.

Sometimes we wrongly think, “I can’t help it” when we loose patience.  Do we realize the help a Christian is given to maintain patience.  Col.1:11   So with our former examples of faithful men of old with our Savior being in the forefront of examples, let us follow the admonition in Col.3:12,13

ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 4

D – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 4

So far, the attributes of a Christian have included a hunger for God’s Word and a desire to talk to God in prayer.  Another attribute has been being with other Christians as they meet together for we are a family—the family of God.  Assembling together is important.

Love is an attribute never to be neglected.  In fact to accomplish the above attributes, love would be necessary.  Lk.10:27 is a familiar verse to us.  How deeply does this “all” sink into our minds, hearts, and consequently our lives.  Everything about us, our speech and actions, including our habits, will show how much or how little we love our Lord.  Ps.97:10   Some considerations follow.

God loved us first.  1 Jhn.4:10   Paul wanted us to know this love that God has for us that would cause Him to send His Son for our salvation.  Eph.3:18,19   The key to our abiding in God and He in us is love for that is what God is.  1 Jhn.4:16   We cannot love God without loving His Son.  1 Jhn.5:1  

Perhaps love should be defined.  Many definitions are available in the world.  Just as many degrees of love can be found.  Whether marital, love of family, love of friends, or love of our Lord, the following should be true:  “Love is an earnest and anxious desire for an active and beneficial interest in the well-being of one loved.” (Quote – William Evans)

God loves us even when we do not deserve it.  Rom.5:8   God doesn’t give us what we want but what we need.  Many times man’s love is fickle.  This is not true of God’s love.  Rom.8:38,39

How can we ever return such a love as that?  1 Jhn.2:5,6   Is it too much to ask when God has given us so much and will continue to do so if we abide in Him.  1 Jhn.5:3   As we realize what His love has done for us, we are caused to have a great desire to walk with our Lord.  2 Cor.5:14,15   We are not forced.  It is our choice, but our love for Him compels us to go all the way with Him.  1 Jhn.2:6

Is this love of God going to be a recognizable attribute of a Christian?  What will the world see in us?  This lesson began with the greatest commandment.  The second greatest commandment is and your neighbor as yourself.  This is what the world will see and experience through us. 

The attitude and actions of the world are far different in many circumstances of life.  One difference is in dealing with relationships.  Those of the world have a tendency to hate someone who has wronged them.  The Christian attribute is opposite.  1 Jhn.2:9,11   The one in darkness looses a sense of right and wrong.  Ill-feeling and even vengeance becomes an issue to satisfy self.  Rom.12:19   We were also once in darkness.  Tit.3:3   We are different now and should realize their predicament and pray seriously for them.  Lk.6:28   We were unlovely when Christ died for us and yet He loved us.  Can our love be large enough to engulf the unlovely?  This attribute will show the world a difference.

So what is the source of this love that we need to exemplify?  1 Jhn.4:7,8   We cannot obtain this love on our own.  1 Jhn.4:19   As we became a Christian, we received the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Love is part of that gift.  Gal.5:22; Rom.5:5  

Love of one another as the family of God is important to Jesus.  Jhn.13:34,35; 2 Jhn.5   John reasons in this fashion.  1 Jhn.3:10   A Christian is known if he obeys the commandments of the Lord; but he is also known if he loves his brother.  We see our brother but we don’t “see” God.  If we say we love God, we lie.  1 Jhn.4:20,21  We have no option.  We “must” love our brother. (vs.21)

A description of this love is given in Rom.13:10.  Paul relays the importance of love to the Corinthians.  If we think we are good or important for any reason and don’t have love, we are absolutely nothing.  Then Paul continues with another description of this love Christians are to possess toward their fellowman.  1 Cor.13:4-7

• Patient – 2 Cor.6:6
• Kind – Eph.4:32
• No Jealousy – Gal.5:26
• Doesn’t Brag – Gal.6:3
• Not proud – Rom.12:16
• Not unbecoming for a Christian – (rude), 1 Cor.10:24
• Beareth all things – Rom.15:1; Col.3:13
• Believeth all things – Rom.3:22; Heb. 11:6
• Hopeth all things – Rom.5:5
• Endureth all things – 2 Tim.2:3

Taken from “The Message” by Eugene Peterson:

Love never gives up, love cares more for others than for self, love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have, love doesn’t strut, doesn’t have a swelled head, doesn’t force itself on others, isn’t always “me first,” doesn’t fly off the handle, doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, doesn’t revel when others grovel, takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, puts up with anything, trusts God always,, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end.

A sincere love (Rom.12:9) is the fulfillment of the royal law.  Jam.2:8   Love binds the other virtues together and therefore is above the rest.  Col.3:14   Without love it would be improbable that the other virtues would be accomplished.  God has loved us, so let us love our brother, as well.  1 Jhn.4:11

CHRISTIAN ATTRIBUTES - 3

C – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 3

What could be a better sight as a person enters a meeting of Christians than to see smiles bursting from happy faces.  Joy is an important attribute of a Christian and it must come from within.  Two songs come to mind – “The Joy of the Lord Is My Strength” (Neh.8:10) and “I’ve Got Real Joy, Wonderful Joy”.  The world offers happiness—but only for a season.  Worldly friends might offer fun and excitement only to end in grief.  The only real joy is in Jesus.  Prov.12:20; Jer.15:16  True joy comes from the heart.  Ps.4:7   Everlasting joy is promised in Isa.51:11.

Joy is expressed as events happen in our lives.  The Magi were very joyful as they saw the star.  Matt. 2:10   Jesus told parables of lost things being found and this produced joy.  The first was a lost sheep.  Lk.15:5   This parable was used to show how a lost sinner produces joy in heaven when he repents.  Another parable is told of a lost coin that illustrates the same.  Lk.15:9   The parable of the Prodigal Son also shows the joy of the lost being found.  Lk.15:32   The ultimate joy is found in heaven when a sinner is saved from the clutches of sin.  Lk.15:10

Deep inner joy is found with thanksgiving and peace.  If we can find the many things for which to be thankful in every circumstance, then we will have joy.  Peace and contentment also comes with inner joy and thanksgiving.  Rom.14:17   Paul and Barnabas endured great persecution on the first missionary journey and yet, with what were the disciples filled?  They were filled with joy.  Acts 13:52   The gospel was being proclaimed and people were giving their lives to Jesus.  This was true in Acts 15:3.

When joy is centered in self and things of this world, it will be shallow and due for loss.  1 Jhn.2:15-17   If we center our lives around Jesus and the spiritual things of life, then and only then can lasting joy be produced.  Joy is part of the fruit that blossoms from the Spirit.  Gal.5:22  

Does worry bring joy?  Matt.6:31-34   Paul told the Philippians to rejoice.  Phil.4:4   Then very quickly he had another admonition for them.  Phil.4:6,7   When we worry, what is it generally about?  Things of this world.  It is very true that a Christian needs to take care of his obligations in this world to show an honest example before all.  Jesus taught this in Lk.20:25.  

We go beyond our obligations and want style, surplus, and “toys” like our neighbors.  Is debt a joy?  No!  Paul learned contentment in every possible circumstance.  Phil.4:11   It seems that some are never satisfied.  The saying goes, “The grass is greener on the other side.”  Paul explains contentment to Timothy in 1 Tim.6:6-8   The same idea was expressed by Job so well.  Job 1:21

Usually money is necessary to satisfy many of our discontents.  This leads to problems with our spiritual life.  1 Tim.6:9,10; Heb.13:5   The love of money becomes a destructive character trait.  It leads us to a lack of trust and also a lack of joy.

Joy is often associated with thanksgiving.  If we are thankful, then we can take joy in whatever it may be.  It might be something we received or perhaps an event that took place.  Whatever it might have been, when we are thankful, then we take joy in the occasion.  The following two Scriptures give great joy as well as thankfulness. 2Cor.9:15

1 Cor.15:57

Another cause of joy for a Christian is hope.  A Christian’s hope is in the Lord.  Ps.39:7; 1Pet.1:21   A non-Christian has hope in things of this world.  Those things will pass away.  A Christian’s hope goes beyond that.  Eph.2:12   This lack of hope is evident at the time of death.  1Thess.4:13   There is fear rather than hope.  Our hope is called a living hope.  1 Pet.1:3   This gives a Christian great joy.  Rom.15:13   An explanation of this hope is given in Tit.1:2.  Tit.2:13

1 Thess.5:16,18  Even in trials?  Rom.5:3   When we can achieve a victory over a trial or temptation, it gives us strength for the next one.  If we never had a trial, our strength would be in atrophy as in a muscle that was never used.  Use strengthens.  So we are strengthened in our ability to stand strong for our Lord.  Jam.1:2,3   Jesus gave this instruction in the Sermon on the Mount.  Matt.5:11,12   Notice: rejoice and be glad even when people are speaking evil against us. 

When Jesus was explaining to the apostles that He was going away, He gave them a greater joy.  They were glad to have Jesus with them but there was to be a greater joy coming.  Jhn.16:24   Now when they prayed, they would be able to pray in His name that their joy would be made full.  Jhn.15:11   Jesus wanted them to experience His joy.  Jhn.17:13   When Jesus left they would suffer grief, but then they would have joy that no one could take from them.  Jhn.16:22

As Christians, we need to show joy in our lives.  The first place the world will see our joy is on our face—smile!  Joy brings a friendliness that invites people.  Joy also shows hope.  People in the world have enough sadness to want to come to a place that shows gloom.  Joy is an encourager.  Happiness uplifts.  It not only helps the world—it helps us!

We keep on rejoicing even to the point of rejoicing with exultation (delight).  Nothing could be worse than what our Lord suffered for us and yet He did it with joy.  Heb.12:2

Let joy be an attribute of our Christian life.  1 Pet.1:8

B-ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN-2

B – ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN – 2

Communication and fellowship with God has been shown to be an important attribute of a Christian for how can we be “of Christ” and be void of either one.  Our communication and also our fellowship with God requires both a life of prayer and also a life of hunger to know more of God’s Word.  Matt.5:6

The above are attributes of our private life as a Christian although fruit is born of both that should be visible in our lives.  Because of this insatiable desire within us, we want to be with those that have that same longing.  To be with Christians in church, which is the assembly of the “called out” and not a building, this desire is accomplished.  Christians being together is so important to our Christian life that it is commanded.  Heb.10:24,25   This “called-out assembly” is the church that Jesus established.  Matt.16:18  

Since the church is an “assembly”, a group of people (Christians) are involved.  Do you remember having assemblies in school?  Many classes came together.  This assembly for Christians is church.  Many examples are given in Scripture to illustrate the togetherness of Christians in church.  Ed Werner gives several of these examples in his book, On To Perfection as seen below.

Christ’s church is a family.  Heb.2:11 (brothers are of the same family); Gal.6:10(NIV)   We sing the song, “Family of God.”  Christ’s church is called a “flock.”  Acts 20:28; 1 Pet.5:2,3   An army is used to illustrate Christ’s Church.  Christians are soldiers in God’s army.  2 Tim.2:2-4   As soldiers we are given our armor.  Eph.6:11   The church is called a kingdom.  Jhn.3:5; Matt.9:35   Another illustration is the body.  Rom.12:4,5; 1 Cor.12:12,13

With the above “Jesus is the head of the family, the Chief Shepherd of the flock, the leader of the army, the King in the kingdom, and the head of the body.  Christians are to work together to help one another reach spiritual maturity so the work of Christ can be advanced.”

Two reasons are given for our assembling together in Heb.10:24,25.  The first is to stimulate one another to love and  good deeds.  Jhn.13:35   Our need of love for one another is evident; but “Hello” and “Have a good day” for one hour a week does not produce love.  Sometimes the above is without even knowing their name.  During that hour we take our seat, sing, pray, listen to a sermon.  We do not get to know one another in our hopes, dreams, problems, and victories of life.  Lives need to be shared with one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.  Rom.12:15   When we spend time with “friends”, is that time spent with those in Christ or those of the world.  It is true – we must make friends to win them to Christ but there is a difference.  1 Cor.15:33   In Acts 2:44  the Christians were together

As we join in the assembly, whenever Christians meet together we get to know one another in a closer way.  This is especially true if we arrive early enough to         visit and don’t rush out at the end.  We join in fellowship times.  We are             stimulated and energized to love one another as true friends in Christ.  As part of            the family of God, we are brothers and sisters in the faith.  1 Pet.1:22

Because of our love for one another and our knowledge of the needs of each other, we can not only pray for and with them, but we can help supply those needs that are within our power to do so.  None of us are an island to ourselves.  We all need help at times.  We leave our comfort zone for one another and count it joy to do so.  Eph.4:12

Not only are we stimulated to love and good deeds for each other, but for those outside of Christ.  One of our goals is to bring them into the fold or the church of believers.  As we are together, we become aware of needs in the community.  Do we have that spirit of compassion that Jesus showed so many times.  Mk.6:34; Col.3:12  Together we can become more aware of those needs and learn ways to offer our assistance.  Let it always be in the name of the Lord and His church and not ourselves personally for our own glory.

Do we ever have need of encouragement?  Our answers come as we meet together.  We need encouragement as we face problems and pain.  We need input as we face problems in relationships.  Heb.3:13  And, yes, we need encouragement to remain faithful as we see the day drawing near.  Some day each one of us will face the end of life in one way or another.  We encourage one another to be ready.  1 Jhn.1:7  We need that fellowship to encourage.

Do we have temptations?  Jesus did, so we could say that we all do.  Are we willing for others to approach in help when they see us falling.  We need to remain approachable to receive help.  1 Pet.5:8,9   It may be that we are the one to provide help.  Scripture tells us how.  Gal.6:1   Those who preach and teach the gospel are given responsibilities to be achieved.  Much of this happens as we come together.  2 Tim.4:2  Then, as we come together, we must be ready and willing to receive this through the Word.

Meeting together should never be drudgery.  May we say with David in Ps.122:1 I was glad when they said to me,” Let us go to the house of the Lord.”  If we were made to witness just five minutes of what some Christians in the past and even today go through to worship, we would forever be thankful and our hearts full of joy to have the great privilege we have to worship in Spirit and Truth (Jhn.4:24) with the freedom we enjoy.

Are we one hour a week Christians?  That means we spend 52 hours a year out of roughly 5,824 hours to worship together.  That is giving us 8 hours of sleep a night.  This does not help us grow nor does it help the church as a people to grow; consequently, we don’t win the world as Jesus commissioned us to do.  Matt.28:19,20  May we not forsake the assembly!

Generally, the world knows where we should be when the church meets.  If they notice that we are home or they see us out shopping during the times of church service or see us at a ballgame or golf course, what kind of influence does that bring?  In their mind we are no different in that aspect than they are.  Why should they become a Christian.  They are hunting for every excuse they can find as to why they are “just as good.”

Following are some astonishing statistics taken from Leadership magazine.  When Mom and Dad both attend church, 72% of the children will remain faithful.  If just Dad attends church, then 55% of the children will be found faithful.  When only Mom attends church, the percentage dwindles to 15% and if neither Dad nor Mom attend, the percentage drops further to only 6%.  Does our attendance make a difference?  Definitely—not only to us personally but to our children and to the world around us.

“I’ll Tell the World That I’m a Christian” by being faithful in our presence when the saints meet together.  This is an important attribute of a Christian.  As we come together, let us be thankful and with joy offer our sacrifice of praise   Heb.13:15   If we are doing our part, we should not be discouraged with a few in number.  Pray for those not present.  Matt.18:20   What is “our part”?  Matt.6:33

ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 1

A - ATTRIBUTES OF A CHRISTIAN 1

First, what is a Christian?  This name is used three times in the N.T.—Acts 11:26;  Acts 26:28; 1 Pet.4:16.  A Christian is a follower, a servant, a slave of Jesus Christ.  The slaves of Caesar were called Caesarians so the term “Christian” follows the pattern.  Chafer in his book, Systematic Theology, defines a Christian in the following way: “Is not one who does certain things for God but…one for whom God has done certain things; he is not so much one who conforms to a certain manner of life as he is one who has received the gift of eternal life, he is not one who depends upon a hopelessly imperfect state but rather one who has reached a perfect standing before God as being in Christ”.  We do not do for God as much as He does for us.

So what does an attribute mean?  An attribute is a characteristic quality of a person.  In this case—a Christian.  It would be a characteristic that is appropriate for a Christian.  It might even be a characteristic that would designate a person as a Christian to the public and cause them to be a testimony for their Lord. 

We realize that we must obey God and follow in Christ’s footsteps in the kind of life we live; however, God does so much more for us than what we do for Him.  God loves us with immeasurable love.  Rom.8:37-39   Our love of God cannot be stressed too much or too often.  Nothing else will matter if we don’t truly love God with our all.  Lk.10:27   Not only do we love God, but we love His Son—Jesus Christ.  1 Jhn.5:1   whoever loves the Father loves the child born of him.  God , Himself, gave His own testimony that Jesus was His Son .  Matt.3:17; Matt.17:5

Just talking about our love of the Lord is not sufficient; although we are to confess His name and He will confess us to the Father.  Matt.10:32   Occasionally there will be those that talk on and on with the idea that they are being a testimony when in reality, they love to hear themselves and are not accomplishing anything but taking up precious worship or study time.  A time of testimony is a blessing but not out of order or inappropriately.  Eccl.5:7; Eccl.6:11   After a time, people quit listening.  May we be profitable in our speech that we can be a glory to God and not a detriment.  Col.3:17  We must follow through with our life.  “Walk the talk”.

Our love of God is more than just an acknowledgment that He exists.  A person may know of someone by name but not really know them, have fellowship with them, become acquainted with their goals in life and know their struggles.  We have a God that really knows us.  In fact He knows everything about us.  To love God we must know Him—not just be acquainted or know that He exists.  Job 19:25; 2 Tim.1:12  

What better way to know the Lord than to study His Word.  2 Tim.2:15;  Heb.4:12   Sometimes there is a lonesomeness for family far away and we will read and reread their communication.  The Word is so important to us.  If we are honest as we study it, our soul will be laid bare with our attitudes and thoughts exposed.  God can see.  Heb.4:13   Can we?  Our longing for God’s Word should be so strong that our soul pants for it as a deer that has been running longs for a drink.  Ps.42:1

We need to read and study God’s Word so much that it is in our minds (Ps.119:11)   and ready to answer in temptation as Jesus did (Matt.4:4,6,10) or be ready to answer someone who asks us why we are a Christian.  1 Pet.3:15  

The very first Christians continually devoted themselves to the apostles teaching.  Acts 2:42   This was so important to them.  Today we are blessed to have the Bible available to us in many versions and languages.  Parts of the world cannot freely have Bibles and are even persecuted if found with a Bible. We have that freedom.  Is it so common that we forget to be thankful?  Do we even take the great advantage that we have, or are our Bibles picked up only when we go to church—if then.  If your Bible could write, what would be the diary of your Bible?

Have you ever attempted to become a friend of someone who would not talk to you?  It is discouraging and unsuccessful to say the least.  God speaks to us through the Scriptures; yet do we talk to God?  He wants our communication with Him.  How?  Prayer!  We thank Him.  We praise Him.  We confess and repent before Him.  We ask for guidance from Him.  We pray for others.  Eph.6:18   We can open our hearts before our Father.  Phil.4:6   We pray through His Son, Jesus.  Sometimes we are so overcome with needs that we can’t put them into words and the Holy Spirit helps us.  Rom.8:26

If God is on my mind, then praying without ceasing will come naturally.  1 Thess.5:17   This doesn’t mean we will have formal prayers going constantly.  Think of a couple in love.  The loved one is constantly on their mind when absent.  We love our Lord so He is on our mind constantly.  We want to please Him.  Col.1:10   We want to obey Him because we love Him.  1 Jhn.5:3   We want to serve Him.  1 Thess.1:9   We want to be a glory to His name.  1 Cor.10:31   This will cause us to talk to our Lord.  This is prayer.

A true Christian will have a time of private prayer.  This will include adoration of how great God is to you.  Thanksgiving will be an important part.  God has given us so much.  We will need to humbly ask forgiveness specifically as we realize what we have done to displease our Lord.  Yes, we can even ask God for blessings and definite needs with guidance from Him and making sure that what we ask is within His will.  1 Jhn.5:14   Intercessory prayer is important as we pray for others—maybe healing, conversion, guidance, comfort.  Whatever we pray, we pray in Jesus’ name.

Prayer is something so necessary for victory in our lives and victory for the church.  Prayer is something everyone can and should do.  Even those homebound can become prayer warriors.  When we tell someone we will pray for them, DO IT!  Don’t just say the words.  Maybe it needs to be done right them.  Make a list to be sure you do pray for them.

As Christians, we need to be devoted to prayer.  Col.4:2; Rom.12:12   Jesus was perfect and the Son of God and yet He spent much time in prayer.  Much more could be said of prayer.  Let your prayer life grow.  Jesus taught us to not give up in prayer.  Lk.18:1