Article: CHRISTIAN LIFE | Mariyam John, Kottarakara

The one who knows and follows the doctrines of Jesus Christ is a Christian. The Christian life is a profound experience encompassing the spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects of an individual’s existence. With its beginning in the teachings of Jesus Christ, it demands a dedication to live according to biblical teachings, growing in relationship with God, and expressing His love to others. They are capable of finding meaning in life, peace, and courage to overcome any challenge. The Christian life invites individuals to enter into a transformative journey that goes beyond the boundaries of the physical world.

Relationship with God

A deep and meaningful relationship with God is the foundation of Christian life. People enter into a personal journey with God by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, being considered as the children of God. Prayer, meditation on Scripture, and participation in communal worship are the key practices that develop this relationship. This allows believers to express their love, gratitude, and needs to God, while also listening for His guidance and voice which leads to comfort and empowerment. A relationship with God is fundamentally made possible by the spirit through the word. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God” (Romans 8:14). Love for God is interconnected with love for others, and this results in deeds of service, grace, and forgiveness which resemble love and character of God.

Teachings of Jesus Christ

The Teachings of Jesus Christ form the core of Christian faith and practice. The Sermon on the Mount of Jesus Christ outlines principles such as humility, mercy, peace-making, and purity of heart. Love the Lord with all heart, soul, mind, and strength. This is the first and the great commandment. The second commandment is, love the neighbour as themselves. This love is to be expressed through acts of kindness, compassion, and service. Jesus exemplifies servanthood by sacrificing his life as a ransom for many. Jesus taught the importance of forgiveness, forgiving others, and asking God for forgiveness of sins.

Spiritual Growth and Fellowship

Studying the Bible is one of the key aspects of spiritual growth. It helps to strengthen one’s relationship with God. Read, Study, Meditate, Obey, and Continue in the Bible. It builds up personal development and transformation. Study of the Bible has many positive effects on life, including intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth. Engage in prayer and worship. Prayer is a direct means of communication with God. One can develop a personal relationship with God through prayer. Express reverence, adoration, and praise to God. Fellowship and Communion are another way to expand spiritual growth. The Christian life is not meant to live in solitude. It involves regular gatherings for worship, prayer, and Bible study, which promote mutual support, encouragement, and shared worship among believers. From the beginning of the church itself, people had a good fellowship and communion. “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer” (Acts. 2:42).

Ethical Living

Ethical living in Christian life comprises following the guidelines and values from the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Bible. A Christian must live lives that honour God and reflect His character. Ethical living is not just about following a set of rules but involves developing a heart that desires to please God and serve others. Christians should adhere to reflect the character of Christ in daily life. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5). When we grow in Christ, He transforms our thoughts, words, and deeds. Being ethical means having humility, repentance, and a desire to please God, by doing what is right in the sight of the Lord. As we rely on God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can become more like Christ and make a positive impact on the world around us.

Hope and Eternal Perspective

As Christians, we have a hope of eternal life, the life after death. Eternal life is influencing the lives of the believers. They never focus on temporary things of the world but on the eternal truth of God’s kingdom. “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Cori. 4:18). God gave eternal life to people who live with a sense of purpose of God and for those fulfilling the promise of God. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Amid challenges and uncertainties, the hope of eternal life holds them in faith. The eternal life through Jesus Christ is the gift of God. Eternity encourages people to renew day by day and to share the love of God with others for a sense of anticipation for the future.

The Christian life is a journey of faith, love, and hope. In Christian life, we have an unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ. Staying true to the values that shape our spiritual identity is crucial as we face the complexities of this world. The conclusion of Christian life is not an end but a new beginning. We have the assurance of eternal life in the presence of our Heavenly Father because of our constant faith in God and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This promise gives us hope and inspires us to approach daily with dedication and purpose. This journey has no end, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has prepared a place for us in His eternal kingdom.

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