Jesus Our Great High Priest: Access to God Like Never Before
Jesus our great High Priest—this truth from Hebrews 7:23–28 reshapes everything about how we connect with God. In the Old Testament, priests served as mediators between God and His people. They offered sacrifices, declared blessings, and stood in the gap. But even the best priests were temporary and flawed.
Jesus, however, is different.
Hebrews 7 says that Jesus lives forever and holds a permanent priesthood. He is the connection between heaven and earth. As our High Priest, Jesus gives us direct access to the Father. We don’t need to go through a pastor, priest, or worship leader. We come confidently through Him.
“In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.” – Ephesians 3:12 (NIV)
What Does It Mean That Jesus Is Our Mediator?
In 1 Timothy 2:5, Paul writes, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” Jesus brings peace between us and God. Unlike temporary fixes or emotional highs, His peace is lasting and real.
When we don’t turn to Jesus, we often try to find peace in other ways—through control, performance, or distractions. But those solutions fade fast.
Why It Matters: No More “If-Then” Religion
Without Jesus, we live in a constant “if-then” mindset—If I perform well, then I’ll be at peace. If I mess up, then I’m disqualified. That cycle leads either to burnout or pride.
Jesus rescues us from both extremes: “I’m too broken” and “I can do it on my own.” He invites us into something far better—complete trust and daily abiding.
What Should We Do in Light of This?
Let your life turn constantly to Jesus. When you fail, come boldly to the throne of grace. When you’re exhausted from striving, return to abiding. He’s not a distant God or a ceremonial figure—Jesus our great High Priest is near, living, and welcoming you today.
Jesus is Greater Than Moses: Why Our Focus Must Shift
Jesus is greater than Moses—that’s the bold declaration found in Hebrews 3:1-6, and it’s still just as radical today as it was for the early Jewish believers who first read it. Moses was revered as the lawgiver, prophet, and spiritual father of Israel. But the writer of Hebrews reminds us that while Moses was a faithful servant, Jesus is the Son over God’s house. And the Son deserves greater honor.
This truth confronts a natural human tendency: we often cling to what’s familiar, even when something better has come. The early church struggled to let go of the rituals, rules, and systems of the old covenant—even though those things were always meant to point to Jesus. Like a rotary phone next to a smartphone, religion alone simply can’t do what Jesus does: save, heal, and deliver.
The old covenant, Hebrews says, is now obsolete (Hebrews 8:13). Paul echoes this in Galatians 3:24, saying the law was a tutor to lead us to Christ. Everything that Moses built was good, but it was never meant to stand on its own—it was a shadow of the reality that is found in Jesus (Colossians 2:16-17).
So what should we do? Hebrews 3:6 calls us to “hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.” Let go of what’s lesser. Don’t treat religion or tradition as equal to Christ. Fix your eyes on Jesus—the final word and the firm foundation.
Bearing One Another’s Burdens: How to Live Out Jesus’ Words
Bearing one another’s burdens is at the heart of Christian living. In Galatians 6:2, Paul urges us to “carry each other’s burdens.” By doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ. Jesus calls us to actively support each other, not just in times of crisis but throughout everyday life. This is more than just a kind gesture; it’s a command to build a stronger, more connected community.
Jesus demonstrated this by bearing the weight of our sins on the cross (Matthew 8:17). He didn’t merely speak comforting words—He took action. As His followers, we are called to do the same. Luke 6:47-48 teaches us that those who hear Jesus’ words and act on them are like a house built on a strong foundation. Bearing one another’s burdens strengthens the foundation of the church, enabling us to withstand life’s challenges.
To practice bearing one another’s burdens, start with genuine connections. At Open Door Church, we recently encouraged our congregation to step outside their comfort zones. We asked them to engage with someone they didn’t know well and simply ask, “How can I be praying for you?” This small act opened the door to deeper relationships and greater care within the church.
By bearing each other’s burdens, we live out the love of Christ. It’s not just about offering help when needed, but about walking alongside each other through life. How can you bear someone’s burdens today?
Join us at Open Door Church in Shawnee, OK, and learn how we can grow together in faith. Visit us at www.open-door.tv or follow us on social media
Breaking Dysfunction: One Anothering in the Church
Breaking dysfunction in the church begins with understanding the power of connection. Jesus prayed in John 17:20-21 that His followers would be one, just as He and the Father are one. Yet, when we become disconnected, dysfunction sets in. Dysfunction occurs when something fails to operate as it was designed. Just like a broken bone disrupts the body’s function, broken relationships in the church create disorder, pain, and ineffectiveness. When encouragement is missing, accountability fades, and unity suffers, the entire body of Christ feels the strain. The church was designed to function as a family—when we isolate, we break that design.
Dysfunction Hinders Spiritual Formation
Where there is dysfunction, growth and life are stunted. Just as an injured limb weakens over time, spiritual dysfunction leads to atrophy. Our calling as disciples is to be continually formed into Christ’s image. But when we disconnect from the Word, we disconnect from life itself. Jesus calls us to love one another—not from a distance, but through real, engaged relationships. If Jesus left His throne to love us up close, how can we love one another from afar? Spiritual formation happens in community, not in isolation.
One Anothering Destroys Disconnection
The enemy knows that a disconnected army is an easily defeated one. Just as a strong father protects his family, the church must guard against division. Living out the ‘one another’ commands—loving, encouraging, forgiving—erases disconnection and builds unity. Jesus longs for His church to be one, and our love for one another is the proof that He is real. Let’s commit to being a church that isn’t just like family but is family.
Get Connected! Join us for Sunday School and House to House—because the body of Christ needs all of us!
One Anothering: The Foundation of Biblical Community
One anothering is not just a biblical suggestion—it’s a command that defines the life of the Church. In a world where loneliness is a public health crisis, the call to live in deep, mutual relationship with one another has never been more urgent. The New Testament contains 59 one another commands, urging believers to love, serve, encourage, and support each other in authentic Christian community.
The Crisis of Loneliness
In May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared loneliness a public health crisis. Studies show that social isolation is as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes per day and even more dangerous than obesity. Loneliness increases the risk of early death, heart disease, stroke, weakened immune function, mental health struggles, and even dementia.
God knew this truth long before modern research confirmed it. In Genesis, He declared, “It is not good for man to be alone.” The Church has an incredible opportunity to combat loneliness by practicing biblical one anothering—offering people a place to belong, grow, and thrive in community.
What Is One Anothering?
The phrase “one another” comes from a single Greek word meaning mutual action and shared responsibility. In the New Testament, it is never optional; it is an expectation for every believer.
Even outside of scripture, Greek writers used this word to describe warriors fighting together, citizens supporting one another, and the relational duties of a just society. In every context, one anothering implies deep connection and shared responsibility.
The Church is called to be a family—living life with one another in a way that reflects the love of Christ.
The Commands of One Anothering
1. Love & Unity in the Church
Love one another (John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7)
Be at peace with one another (Mark 9:50)
Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16)
Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2)
2. Humility & Service
Wash one another’s feet (John 13:14)
Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:10)
Serve one another (Galatians 5:13)
Submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)
3. Encouragement & Accountability
Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24)
Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)
4. Right Attitude Toward Others
Do not judge one another (Romans 14:13)
Do not grumble against one another (James 5:9)
Do not lie to one another (Colossians 3:9)
5. Mutual Edification
Teach one another (Colossians 3:16)
Speak to one another with psalms and hymns (Ephesians 5:19)
Instruct one another (Romans 15:14)
6. Forgiveness & Reconciliation
Forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32)
7. Carrying Burdens & Helping One Another
Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)
Be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32)
Living Out One Anothering in the Church
Imagine a church that truly lived out these one another commands—a community where people love each other like family, serve selflessly, and encourage one another daily. This is the biblical standard for the Church, not just a good idea but a direct command from Jesus.
As believers, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly practicing one anothering, or have we settled for a passive Sunday morning experience? The early Church thrived because they devoted themselves to these commands, creating a culture where no one was left isolated or in need.
The Cost of Neglecting One Anothering
Scripture warns us about the consequences of failing to live in unity. In 1 Corinthians, Paul describes how divisions in the church led to sickness and even death among believers. Could it be that some of our struggles—spiritual attacks, oppression, or even physical ailments—are connected to our failure to obey Jesus’ call to one anothering?
The fear of the Lord should lead us to action, not guilt. 1 John 2:3-6 reminds us that if we truly know Jesus, we will obey His commands. And His command is clear: we must love one another as He has loved us.
A Call to Action: Will You Commit to One Anothering?
One anothering is more than a list of verses—it’s a radical way of life that transforms individuals and churches. God is looking for a people who will commit to genuine, biblical community. Will we be that people? Will we love, serve, and build each other up in a way that changes lives and glorifies God?
Let’s move beyond church attendance and embrace the call to be the family of God. Let’s be a church that embodies one anothering—where no one stands alone, and everyone experiences the love of Christ through deep, authentic relationships.
Are you ready to commit to one anothering in your church? What steps can you take this week to love, serve, and encourage those around you? Let’s start today.
Breaking Selfishness: How Radical Generosity Transforms the Church
Breaking selfishness is hard. Selfishness is a vortex, constantly pulling us inward, making life about what we can gain. But the gospel calls us to something different. As the church, we look up in worship to a selfless God—the Father who gives His Son, the Son who gives His life, and the Spirit who magnifies the grace of them both. And we look out to love and serve others.
Learning from the Good Samaritan
Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) to illustrate what true love looks like. The Samaritan didn’t just help; he sacrificed:
He gave his time—he stopped to help.
He gave his heart—he felt compassion.
He gave up his safety—the road was dangerous.
He used his resources—bandages, oil, and wine.
He gave financially—covering the cost of the man’s care.
This wasn’t a random act of kindness; it was a costly act of love. Radical generosity means giving even when there’s no return on investment.
Breaking Selfishness Through Giving
The family of God operates at its best when people give themselves away. But consumerism threatens this by making us focus on what we get rather than what we give. True discipleship asks, “Who can I serve?” instead of “What’s in it for me?”
Here’s how we can break selfishness through giving:
Give Financially – Tithing (1 Cor. 9:6-8) and generosity provide for ministry and meet real needs.
Give by Serving – Church isn’t a spectator event. Get involved in greeting, nursery, kids’ ministry, or prayer teams.
Give by Being a Friend – We’re living in an epidemic of isolation. Proverbs 18:24 reminds us that friendship requires us to be intentional. Church isn’t just about Sundays—it’s about showing up for each other throughout the week.
The Upside-Down Kingdom
In God’s Kingdom, when we give, we receive even more in return. Many times, when we feel drained, serving someone else is what fills us back up.
As we prepare for another round of House to House, an opportunity to connect with other families over a meal, let’s step into radical generosity. Breaking selfishness isn’t just about giving—it’s about transforming our hearts and our church family.
The church is family. However, for much of my life, I would have defined church as a building or an event that happens on Sundays and Wednesdays. But if we are being precise, you don’t go to church—you go to be with your church. Just like you wouldn’t say, “I’m going to family,” but rather, “I’m going to be with my family.” This misunderstanding of church as a place instead of a people is one reason many have pulled away, seeing church attendance as optional rather than essential to their discipleship to Jesus.
The Church Is a Family
Discipleship means listening to and obeying Jesus—to be with Him, become like Him, and do what He did. But we can’t do what Jesus did without belonging to a believing community. One of the most powerful metaphors Scripture gives us for the church is family:
“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” – Ephesians 2:19
The church is not just a gathering of individuals; it is a family of disciples who listen to and obey Jesus, making more disciples. This family is on a mission—to advance the Kingdom of God by proclaiming the good news and doing good works in His name.
Understanding Church: The Greek Word Ekklesia
The New Testament uses the word ekklesia to describe the church. It means “a called-out assembly or congregation.” Unlike the individualized faith that Western culture often promotes, biblical faith is both personal and shared.
Consider what happens in a family when one member decides to live independently of the rest—ignoring responsibilities, making decisions that negatively impact others. The same principle applies to the church. We are meant to live in community, shaping and being shaped by one another as we follow Jesus together.
Embracing the Strength of Submission
One of the hardest, yet most life-giving aspects of being part of God’s family is submission. Unfortunately, submission is often misunderstood. It is not about control or oppression; it is about choosing to align ourselves under God’s authority and the structure He has put in place for our good.
What Is Biblical Submission?
The Greek word for submission, hypotassō (ὑποτάσσω), means “to place under, to arrange under, to yield, or to submit.” It conveys voluntary alignment under authority, not forced subjugation.
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” – Luke 22:42
Jesus Himself submitted to the Father’s will. Likewise, believers are called to submit:
To God (James 4:7)
To one another (Ephesians 5:21)
Within various relational structures—marriage, family, government, and the church (Ephesians 5:22-24, Hebrews 13:17, Romans 13:1)
In first-century Greco-Roman culture, submission often implied a rigid hierarchy. But in Christianity, Jesus redefined submission as mutual love and service:
“…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:42-45
Why Submission Matters in the Church
Submission to God’s order brings life, not oppression. But due to past abuses of authority in some churches, many are hesitant about submission. However, just as we wouldn’t dismiss all teachers because of a few bad ones, we shouldn’t dismiss the structure God has designed for the church because of a few who have misused their authority.
There are approximately 380,000 Christian churches in America. For every pastor who has misused their authority, there are countless others faithfully serving, loving, and leading well. Authority in the church—when exercised biblically—serves people, builds them up, and improves their condition.
Submission in Action
In families – Parents guide their children not to control them, but to protect and help them flourish.
In marriages – Husbands, submission isn’t a Bible verse to manipulate your wife. If that’s your approach, repent! You are called to use your authority to serve your wife and children.
In church families – We submit to one another, not out of obligation, but out of love and a desire to build each other up.
The Greatest Act of Submission
The ultimate example of submission happened 2,000 years ago on Golgotha, when Jesus laid down His rights as God, left His throne, and submitted to death on a cross for our sake.
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” – Philippians 2:5-8
Jesus submitted not to us, but for us, so that we could be redeemed and made part of God’s family. That’s why biblical submission is not about control—it is love in action.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:3-4
We Submit Because Jesus Submitted
At its core, submission is not about power—it is about giving life. Jesus used His authority not to dominate, but to serve. When submission is practiced as Jesus intended, it strengthens families, marriages, and churches.
We don’t submit because we are forced to—we submit because Jesus has set us free from the oppression of always needing our own way. In the family of God, submission is a gift that fosters unity, growth, and love.
So, let’s embrace the church not as a place we go, but as a family we belong to—a family built on the life-giving submission of Jesus Himself.
Discipleship is the lifelong journey of following Jesus—being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. It’s more than just attending church or learning theology; it’s about allowing Jesus to transform every part of our lives. Recently, we had a conversation at Open Door Church reflecting on what it means to truly follow Christ in these three key areas.
Being with Jesus
Discipleship begins with simply being with Jesus. Before we can become like Him or do His works, we must cultivate a relationship with Him. Prioritizing time in His presence through prayer, scripture, and worship is foundational.
Many believers struggle to make space for God amid the busyness of life. The key is intentionality—whether it’s setting aside quiet moments in the morning, meditating on scripture throughout the day, or inviting Jesus into everyday activities. Even in life’s most routine moments, God desires to meet with us.
If you find it difficult to remain consistent in His presence, start small. A few minutes of focused prayer or a single verse to meditate on can create space for God to work in your heart. Over time, these small moments build into a deep, abiding relationship with Christ.
Becoming Like Jesus
Following Jesus isn’t just about spending time with Him—it’s about being transformed into His likeness. Discipleship is a process of spiritual growth, where God shapes our character to reflect His own.
Growth often comes through challenges. There are moments when God calls us to surrender old habits, attitudes, or perspectives so we can walk in greater obedience. These refining seasons can be uncomfortable, but they are essential to becoming more like Christ.
Community also plays a crucial role in our transformation. Walking with fellow believers provides accountability, encouragement, and support. Whether through small groups, mentorship, or friendships, surrounding ourselves with people who push us toward Christlikeness is vital.
Keeping our hearts open to the Holy Spirit’s work requires humility. It’s easy to resist change, but true discipleship means inviting God to refine us. Daily surrender through prayer and reflection allows us to grow into the people He’s calling us to be.
Doing What Jesus Did
Jesus didn’t just teach—He lived out His message through service, compassion, and miraculous works. As His disciples, we are called to do the same.
Serving others isn’t reserved for pastors or ministry leaders; it’s for every believer. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, evangelism, or meeting practical needs, we all have opportunities to live out the gospel daily. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) calls us to make disciples, not just attend church.
Many feel unqualified to step into ministry, but God isn’t looking for perfection—He’s looking for willingness. Throughout scripture, we see God using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. When we step out in faith, He equips us for the work ahead.
A Call to Deeper Discipleship
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about discipleship, what would it be? Many of us would say to trust God more, surrender sooner, or invest more in spiritual growth. The good news is that today is an opportunity to lean deeper into following Jesus.
As a church, we are on this journey together. What would it look like for us to grow in discipleship as a community? Perhaps it means deeper relationships, more intentional discipleship efforts, or a renewed focus on living out our faith daily.
Discipleship is not just a personal journey—it’s a call to impact the world for Christ. As we continue to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do what He did, we will see transformation in our lives and in those around us.
What is one step you can take this week to grow in your discipleship journey?
How can we do what Jesus did? Francis Chan has a great illustration that explains how Christians justify disobedience. Imagine telling your kids to clean their room. They don’t get credit for thinking about it, talking about it, or even singing about it—they only get credit if they actually clean their room. In the same way, Jesus doesn’t need more people just talking about Him; He needs people who will obey Him. That’s how the world is changed!
Following Jesus in Action
Our mission is simple: Love God, love people, and make disciples. How do we make disciples? By teaching them to listen to Jesus and obey Him. A true disciple listens, obeys, and follows Jesus by being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did.
Called to Do What Jesus Did
Here’s what Jesus said:
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” — John 14:12 (NIV)
James 2 shows us why Jesus said it… He wants us to have a living faith:
“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” — James 2:26 (NIV)
The work our faith will express is love:
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself (working) through love.” — Galatians 5:6 (NIV)
Love is sacrifice:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 (NIV)
Why This Matters
God didn’t just save you from something—He saved you for something. You were saved from sin, destruction, death, and hell. But why? Because He loves you. He saved you for fellowship and for partnership in His Kingdom. It brings God joy when we step into what He created us for.
Your Life as a Reflection of God’s Power
Your life—your obedience—is how God displays His creative genius to the world.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Throughout history, God has used unlikely people to fulfill His purposes. The apostle Paul went from persecuting Christians to writing much of the New Testament. Today, in places like Iran, the underground church is growing rapidly, often led by those the world would least expect. God’s power is displayed through those who surrender to Him.
How You Can Live Like Jesus
Three things we need to embrace to do what Jesus did:
Communion – Spending time with Jesus.
Community – Living in fellowship with others.
Commission – Walking in obedience to God’s calling.
Jesus loved people in action—by preaching and teaching, healing, casting out demons, confronting sin, feeding the hungry, and ultimately laying down His life.
Steps to Start Living This Out
Learn your spiritual gifts and take risks. John Wimber said, ‘Faith is spelled R-I-S-K.’
Prepare your personal gospel message—your testimony. A great testimony only needs three parts:
Who you were before Jesus.
What happened when you surrendered to Jesus.
How He is changing your life now.
Learn how to explain your encounter with God and start sharing it!
Why This Is So Important
The world is desperate for an encounter with God. Our good works are one way the world will encounter Him. When we do what Jesus did, people’s eyes will be opened to who He is.
Just as a well-cared-for tree produces good fruit, a life surrendered to Christ will reflect His goodness. When we walk in obedience, our actions point others to Jesus and bring glory to God.
A Challenge for You
Don’t let the enemy lie to you and make this about you—it’s not about how good you are, but how surrendered you are to the One who is perfectly good. God specializes in taking broken people and using them for His glory. Jesus is glorified when we do what He did.
A Prayer for Obedience
Jesus, help us to do what You did. Help us to listen, obey, and step out in faith. May our lives reflect Your love and power to the world around us. Amen.
The most important thing God gets out of your life is the person you become. — Dallas Willard
Following the Right Example
If you paid any attention to college football this year, you may have heard about the quarterback from Nebraska, Dylan Raiola. He gained notoriety because he mimicked another quarterback—even down to the opening hype ceremony. Anybody know which QB Raiola sought to replicate? The one and only, Patrick Maholmes.
His dedication to following Maholmes’ every move demonstrates something profound: When we admire someone deeply, we naturally begin to reflect their habits, mannerisms, and mindset.
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to the same kind of devotion—but instead of imitating an athlete, our model is Jesus Himself.
The Big Idea: Knowing Jesus Leads to Becoming Like Him
When you know Jesus deeply, you will want to become like Him.
Scripture Focus:
Romans 8:29 – “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”
1 Corinthians 15:49 – “And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear (earlier translations say, ‘so let us bear’) the image of the heavenly man.”
What Should We Understand?
God’s plan and purpose for you is to become like Jesus. This transformation isn’t meant to be a struggle—it becomes natural when we spend time with Him. The more you experience His presence, the more captivated you will be by His character. Becoming like Jesus isn’t about striving; it’s about abiding.
Illustration:
Think about a role model you admire. The more you watch them, listen to them, and learn from them, the more you begin to adopt their habits and ways of thinking. The same is true with Jesus—the more time you spend with Him, the more you will reflect His image.
Why Does This Matter?
Many of us struggle with a gap between who we say we are and how we actually live.
1 John 2:6 reminds us: “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
That gap begins to close as we conform to Jesus’ likeness—not just in theory, but in daily life.
Illustration:
A mirror only reflects what stands in front of it. If Jesus is in front of you, you will reflect Him. If other things take priority, you will reflect those instead.
How Do We Become Like Jesus?
1. Be with Jesus and die to self
Romans 13:14 – “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
2. Believe that you can become more like Christ
2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
3. Train yourself in godliness
1 Timothy 4:7 – “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.”
Practical Steps to Grow in Christlikeness:
Fasting – Helps crucify the flesh and depend on God.
Serving – Teaches humility and sacrificial love.
Challenge: What’s one habit you need to start (or stop) to become more like Jesus?
Why Should We Commit to This?
To bring glory to God – Your life bears fruit when you become more like Jesus.
To experience fulfillment – Seeing spiritual growth is a joyful and humbling experience.
To draw others to Jesus – Your transformation will inspire others to seek Him.
1 Corinthians 11:1 – “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Illustration:
People are always watching you. Is the way you’re living making others want to know Jesus?
Closing Challenge
Be honest: Are you truly becoming more like Jesus?
Take a moment to reflect: Where is God calling you to grow?
Commit this week: Spend intentional time with Jesus—when you’re with Him, you’ll want to be like Him.
Final Prayer: “Jesus, make me more like You. Help me to desire Your presence, to reflect Your character, and to walk as You walked. Transform me from the inside out. Amen.”
