Living the Christ-Like Way: Embracing Compassion, Holiness, and Prayer

Introduction

Scripture

Micah 6:8 NKJV

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

Setting the Foundation

i. Recap

1. Love God and Love Others

2. Follow Jesus and Obey His Teachings

3. Spread the Gospel

ii. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that reflects His character and teachings.

iii. Today's sermon centers on three vital aspects of the Christian life: compassion, holiness, and prayer.

Practice Compassion and Mercy

Jesus' Example Matthew 25:35-40

Matthew 25:35–40 NKJV

for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’

Embracing a Compassionate Heart

Recognizing the needs of others around us - Extending kindness and mercy to those in need

The Impact of Compassion

How showing compassion transforms lives - Reaching out to the marginalized and the hurting

i. Supporting a Colleague Going Through Difficult Times

ii. Extending Kindness to a Stranger

iii. Showing Compassion to a Former Adversary

Live Holy and Godly Lives

Understanding Holiness

Reference 1 Peter 1:15-16

1 Peter 1:15–16 NKJV

but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”

The Call to Purity

Abstaining from sin and worldly temptations - Pursuing holiness through the Holy Spirit's guidance

Becoming a Living Example

Reflecting God's character in our actions and decisions - Attracting others to Christ through our holy living

i. Example 1: Workplace Integrity

In the workplace, an individual decides to become a living example of reflecting God's character in their actions and decisions. They consistently demonstrate honesty, integrity, and fairness in their dealings with colleagues, clients, and superiors. Their ethical conduct and positive attitude attract others to Christ through their holy living. As a result, coworkers take notice of their consistent values, and this individual becomes a trusted and respected role model, leading others to inquire about their faith and the source of their principles.

ii. Example 2: Acts of Kindness in the Community

In the community, a group of friends or neighbors come together to practice reflecting God's character through acts of kindness actively. They engage in various initiatives, such as assisting elderly neighbors with errands, organizing food drives for those in need, and supporting local charities. Their selfless and compassionate actions attract others to Christ as they witness the power of Christ-like love in action. The community takes notice of their consistent care for others, and their holy living becomes an attractive testimony of Christ's teachings.

iii. Example 3: Online Presence and social media

1. Digital Age: Using online presence and social media to reflect God's character.

2. Promote Positivity: Choosing to spread positivity, encouragement, and compassion in online conversations.

3. Attraction to Christ: Respectful and gracious approach attracts others to Christ, sparking curiosity and conversations about faith.

Pray and Seek God

The Power of Prayer

Reference 1 Thessalonians 5:17

1 Thessalonians 5:17 NKJV

pray without ceasing,

Continual Communion with God

Making prayer a consistent part of our lives - Seeking God's wisdom and guidance in every situation

Strengthening Our Faith

How prayer deepens our relationship with God - Experiencing God's presence through heartfelt prayer

i. Strengthening Faith: Prayer as a means to deepen our relationship with God.

ii. Intimate Connection: How heartfelt prayer fosters a profound and intimate connection with God.

iii. Experiencing God's Presence: The transformative experience of sensing God's presence during prayer.

iv. Seeking Guidance: Utilizing prayer to seek God's wisdom and guidance in life's decisions and challenges.

v. Finding Comfort: Prayer as a source of comfort and peace during difficult times.

vi. Building Trust: How consistent prayer builds trust and reliance on God's faithfulness.

vii. Growing in Faith: The role of prayer in nurturing spiritual growth and maturity.

viii. Renewing Hope: Prayer as a source of hope and renewal in times of despair.

ix. Aligning with God's Will: Surrendering to God's will through earnest and heartfelt prayer.

x. Fostering Gratitude: Expressing gratitude and thankfulness to God in prayer.

Conclusion

Embracing the Christian Way of Life

Practicing compassion, holiness, and prayer as integral parts of our faith journey

The Transformative Impact

How living out these principles changes us and the world around us

Invitation to Action

Encouraging the congregation to adopt a lifestyle of compassion, holiness, and prayer

Benediction

Praying for God's grace and guidance as we strive to live as Christ's disciples