Having concluded in previous episodes that the Lord tells us to live as though we had died, gone to heaven, seen the truth there, and then come back to this world, he is not asking us to act on just some psychological motivation, but on what really is, what is ultimately real. Therefore I am to live now by faith, grounded in three space-time realities: what has occurred, such as Christ's death and resurrection; what exists right now in the unseen realm; and what is to come, including my future bodily resurrection and return with Christ.
This should inspire us to live in a manner reflecting an authentic and expectant hope that takes shape in having a more joyous and tranquil outlook no matter the particular circumstances we experience in life. The gospel, the message of Jesus Christ, provides the animating principles for how best to be the creatures God made us to be: human beings bearing his image. And in Christ we are presented with the calling to be this creature by choice, to be creatures glorified.
But now we have to turn to the practicality of it all. How is it possible to live this way? All this talk of the Christian life, true spirituality, which is basically the ideals taught and exemplified by Christ and the apostles, is often quite daunting and feels sometimes out of reach, doesn't it?
What is the answer to the how of it all? How are we going to live this way, if we are to think of this not merely as some sort of abstract religious experience, a set of unattainable ideals, a combination of mood and moment, a vague, meaningless existential experience? How do I get started?
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Attributions:
Schaeffer, Francis A. (1971).True Spirituality: How to Live for Jesus Moment by Moment. Tyndale House.
"Hope" and "Dawn" by Kazukii.
https://soundcloud.com/ohthatkazuki
https://ohthatkazuki.bandcamp.com
"Nycterine" from Echo Grid.
https://soundcloud.com/echogridmusic
https://echogrid.bandcamp.com
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For more resources from and information on how to contact Pastor Johnny, please visit the following sites:
https://www.invictusmaneopress.com
https://www.thoughtoutfaith.com
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