How can you demonstrate the redeemed nature of your life?
Discussion question for April 30, 2010.
When we are redeemed, God makes a change in our life. We go from sinner to forgiven – yet we continually sin. How is your life a testimony to the change God has made in your life? What message are you sending to others, whether saved or unsaved? Is it ever appropriate to say “I’m only human?”
Here’s my summary of our discussion.
We have a message of hope because we can be (and have been) forgiven and changed. While it is important to admit that we were and are sinners, we want people to see us as God sees us. That is, perfectly acceptable in His sight. Not because of what we have done, but because of His great love. Our demonstration is that of being a “new creation” having been transformed from our sinful character.
Probably the most pronounced demonstration of our redeemed nature is through our behavior. The way people see us is based on how we act and react. When our actions and reactions are based on the hope that is within us, it sends a message to those that are watching. There is a great example: Terry at Costco. He is the guy at our local Costco store that everyone recognizes by his smiling face, singing and whistling tunes, greeting and loving people. Over 2,000 people have joined a group on Facebook because they appreciate his testimony.
Each of us has the opportunity to demonstrate the change God has done in us, despite the fact that we are sinners. Hebrews 11 is the chapter often called the “hall of faith”. In it descriptions are given of the faithful acts of Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Samuel, Samson and David; but no mention is made of their sinful pasts. Our new covenant witness can be the same, that we are acceptable to God because of being redeemed and that is a testimony to Him, not us.
Each Christian should use unique methods to demonstrate this change, based on their unique identity in Christ. Not all are called to be like Terry at Costco. Instead, your spiritual gifts and opportunities to use them will inform the method you use. David Hollers may demonstrate it with his gift of service, Dan Friesen by his gift of teaching, John Moore with his gift of encouragement, and so on.
The key is to be a walking testimony of God’s mercy, and that the evidence you put forth should make His holiness indisputable.