Untitled Sermon (17)

Title: Glorifying Jesus: Setting Healthy Boundaries and Behaving Christlike

Good evening, beloved youth,

As we gather tonight, I want to delve into a topic that is crucial for our growth as followers of Christ: setting healthy boundaries for ourselves and behaving in a Christlike manner. In our journey as Christians, we encounter various challenges and temptations that can lead us astray. However, by establishing boundaries rooted in God's Word and embodying the character of Christ in our actions, we can truly glorify Jesus in all that we do.

**Introduction: The Call to Holiness**

Imagine a garden with lush greenery and vibrant flowers—a picture of beauty and harmony. Just as a garden requires boundaries to flourish, so too do our lives. God calls us to live holy lives, set apart for His purposes. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" Our behavior and the boundaries we set are reflections of our commitment to holiness and our desire to glorify Jesus.

**Point 1: Establishing Healthy Boundaries**

Scripture: Proverbs 4:23 - "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life."

Illustration: Imagine a fortress surrounded by a sturdy wall. The wall serves as protection, keeping out harmful influences and safeguarding what is precious within. In the same way, healthy boundaries protect our hearts and minds, preserving our relationship with God and guiding our decisions.

Explanation: Setting healthy boundaries involves knowing our limits and recognizing what influences are beneficial or harmful to our spiritual well-being. It means being intentional about the media we consume, the friendships we cultivate, and the activities we engage in. Boundaries help us maintain our focus on glorifying Jesus and prevent us from being led astray by the distractions of the world.

Question: What are some practical boundaries you can establish in your life to protect your heart and honor God?

**Point 2: Behaving Christlike**

Scripture: Ephesians 4:22-24 - "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Illustration: Picture a mirror reflecting an image. Just as a mirror reflects what is before it, our lives should reflect the character of Christ. When others look at us, they should see glimpses of His love, compassion, and humility shining through our actions.

Explanation: Behaving Christlike means imitating the example of Jesus in our attitudes, words, and actions. It involves practicing virtues such as kindness, patience, forgiveness, and selflessness. By aligning our lives with the teachings of Jesus, we not only honor Him but also become vessels of His love and grace to those around us.

Question: How can you embody the character of Christ in your interactions with others, especially in challenging situations?

**Point 3: Glorifying Jesus in All That We Do**

Scripture: Colossians 3:17 - "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Illustration: Think of a spotlight illuminating a stage. Just as the spotlight highlights the performer, our lives should shine the light of Christ for all to see. Whether we're at school, with friends, or in our quiet moments, every action should point others to Jesus.

Explanation: Glorifying Jesus in all that we do is about living with purpose and intentionality. It's about recognizing that every aspect of our lives—our words, our actions, our relationships—has the potential to either honor or dishonor God. When we approach everything with the mindset of bringing glory to Jesus, we become living testimonies of His transformative power.

Question: How can you intentionally glorify Jesus in your daily activities and interactions with others?

**Tying Back to the Gospel**

At the heart of setting healthy boundaries and behaving Christlike is our commitment to the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ. It is through His sacrificial death and resurrection that we have been redeemed and transformed. As we strive to glorify Jesus in all that we do, we reflect His love and grace to a world in need of hope and salvation.

**Conclusion: Becoming Gospel-Advancing Students**

As we conclude tonight, I want to challenge each of you to become gospel-advancing students. Let's commit ourselves to setting healthy boundaries and behaving in a Christlike manner, not out of legalism or self-righteousness, but out of a deep desire to honor and glorify Jesus. May our lives be living testimonies to the transformative power of the gospel, shining brightly for all to see.

**Challenge:**

This week, I encourage you to take a practical step towards glorifying Jesus in all that you do. Whether it's setting aside time for prayer and Bible study, reaching out to a friend in need, or practicing forgiveness and grace, let's intentionally reflect the love of Christ in our actions and attitudes.

**Prayer and Blessing:**

God, we thank you for the gift of salvation through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to live lives that honor and glorify Him in all that we do. Grant us wisdom and strength to set healthy boundaries and behave in a Christlike manner. May our lives reflect the beauty of your grace and lead others to encounter the life-changing message of the gospel. In Jesus' name, amen.