A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

c. The Church, throughout the ages, is seen by our Lord as one church, John 17.20-21 – I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. d. Those who reject the doctrine of the apostles are not to be tolerated, Rom. 16.17 – I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. e. We are to defend the apostolic faith that has once for all been delivered to the body, Jude 1.3 – Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. f. Those who obtained the promises before us are to be cherished and their lives consulted for instruction, Heb. 6.12 – so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

g. All categories of difference have now been overturned in Christ, Gal. 3.28 – There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

2. Practical insight: As members of the Church, we are now free in Christ to learn from the tradition (experience and insights) of the saints who have walked with the Lord before, and glean from their rich encounters with God fresh insights into what it means to love God and our neighbor.