EXPRESSING THE COMPLETENESS OF CHRIST

We are engrafted as a branch into Christ, the Vine (Romans 11:17-19). The very same power that is in him, enables us. The very same Spirit that quickened him, quickens us. The very same place he sits at the right hand of God is the same place we are by faith, in the Spirit. How do we know our sins are forgiven? By faith alone! We must take God's word for it, and when we do, we are given great peace of mind.

So it is with his power. We must take his word that his power is now at work in us, causing us to will and to do of his good pleasure! And this power can be appropriated only by faith. We must face our weakness with faith that he will help us do what he has commanded.

The paralyzed man who got up, walked, and carried his bed is a type of the believer who has mastery over sin! What an expression of Christ's power he was. What hope he must have given to all who were helpless and in need.

Isn't this what God is after today? Is he not seeking overcomers who will set an example for the world, showing an evil generation how Christ completely delivers from sin's dominion?

Sinners should see believers who live above the lusts and pleasures of this world. Men who love their wives and are faithful; wives who do not cheat and are good mothers and keepers at home; young people who practice purity and separation from all that defiles.

We have enough gospel radio and television and busy Christians doing exploits. We have enough crusades, concerts, and outreaches. We have more than enough plans, projects, programs, seminars, books, records, tapes, magazines, and newsletters.

I am not condemning all these good works. However, what we do not have enough of are Christians who truly show who Jesus is. There is a shortage of those of whom it can be said, "There goes a Christian who really expresses who Jesus Christ is! There is one who has nothing to promote, nothing to prove—but Christ, risen and glorified! There stands a brother, a sister, who shines with the beauty and simplicity of Jesus Christ, the Lord! There is one who has what I'd like to have—a reality that cannot be denied!"

This should become the one and only goal of our lives! To fulfill God's intention—to be a witness who expresses the fullness and completeness of Christ!