In Basics 1, we mentioned that the proof of a changed life is also a factor upon which our assurance depends on. What this means is that our changed life proves to us and to our families and friends that something good has happened to us. It assures us that we have really been born again.

In Basics 2, we are going to look at the Christian life. What it is all about and how to go about living it out?

The Christian life is an exciting life. It is a [NEW] and [WONDERFUL] life. But there are also times when it can be difficult. There will be temptations along the way, testings, problems and perhaps even persecution.

We are going to look at the A – B – C of Christian living.

The Keyword is "NEW"!

 

All things have become new to the one who has put his trust in Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"

 

B. New [ATTITUDES]

Since Christians are said to have died with Christ (to the old life), we must therefore set our hearts and minds on things that are [GODLY] and not on things that are earthly (ie. being materialistic):

Colossians 3:1,2 - "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

Things above are [SPIRITUAL THINGS] – things concerning God and God's purpose for us.

To set our minds on things above means to set our minds on things that are good and pleasing to God.

If we are to set our minds on things above, then there are certain things that we do not indulge in e.g. lying, stealing, slanderous talk, but rather we are to be [KIND] and have a heart of [COMPASSION], ever ready to [FORGIVE] one another:

 

Ephesians 4:25-32:

" Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbour, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.

He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands that he may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

If we were to do the above things in our own strength, we would certainly find it difficult, if not impossible. We need to depend upon the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the one who enables us to live this new life because He lives in us.

 

John 15:5 -“ I am the vine; you are the branches; If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

As Christians, we belong to the family of God. You are a child of God. This means that all other Christians are your brothers and sisters. In this family, there is love and concern for one another. When we love one another we show the love of Jesus in us and are therefore called disciples of Jesus Christ.

John 13:34,35 - “ A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Let us therefore show the world we are Christians (Christ's disciples) by our love, as well as by our new attitudes and behaviour.

 

1. Memorize John 13:34,35.

2. Make a list of some of the wrong habits and sins in your life on a piece of paper. Then ask God to forgive you and to help you live the abundant life He has promised. Next tear away the slip of paper as a sign that God remembers your sins no more. Should any habit or sin keep coming back in your life, ask your counsellor or Oikos Leader to pray with you.

3. Write down three good deeds you can do for your family this week.
Act on them immediately.

i. ___________________________________________________________

ii. ___________________________________________________________

iii. ___________________________________________________________

 

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