Re:Verse reading–Acts 15:1-29 (day five) Acts 15:11 “But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.” In verse 11, Peter changes the focus group in the work of salvation. The primary example in his closing statement was the Gentiles, NOT the Jews. The Jews would have said verse 11 in a different way, “Gentiles believe they are saved just like us”. In other words, Peter is proclaiming that the goal of salvation was NOT to be like the Jews. We often have the same mindset. We misunderstand the message and goal of the gospel. It is not that people become like us, but that they become like Christ. Any other goal falls far short of the promise and power of the Gospel. But, the possibility and opportunity to become more like Christ brings hope and joy to the human heart. That is GOOD NEWS!!
The gospel is the Good News. Jesus is the Good News. God created us in His own image and for us to become like Christ. Becoming like Christ is a great goal. But can we achieve Christlikeness?
It is possible in my view if we know Jesus’ character and we set a goal for becomimg like Jesus. A high achiever and a goal-oriented person can achieve whatever he or she sets his or her mind to it!
I made a choice to receive the highest level of education in the United States and to become a Christian. I achieved both. I feel it is a great calling to be a Christian. I set my goals and made choices which helped me reach those goals.
Becoming like Jesus is a God’s plan for followers. Jesus is fully and completely the image of God. We can imitate Jesus if we want to become like Jesus. God created us and I believe that He intended for us to be just like Jesus so it could be ambitious but doable because it is of God’s plan for those who follow Him.
Prior to my commitment to follow Jesus, I did research Jesus’ character and I found Him someone I could imitate to reach a peaceful and joyful life. I found that His personal characteristics could help me lead and manage others successfully. And I applied some of the concepts in the transformation process to improve my organization (culture and people). It was a transformation success!
Who is Jesus? My conclusion has been He is a servant and a transformational leader!
He has a servant attitude and a servant lifestyle (Servant); He is clearly a man of compassion (Compassion); He is gracious. He did not rush to make judgment on those who were caught in sin but was quick to offer forgiveness and the possibility of a new life to sinners (Gracious); He has never sinned and was in completely obedience to God’s will for Him (Holy); and His priority and passionate relationship, deep connection and love for His Father. Jesus always did what pleased God even though He was sensitive to the needs of the lost masses (Loving Relationship with God, His Father)
Human beings, I believe, can never be Holy but all we can try is to try harder and to stay away from sinful temptations. As we understand Jesus’ character, develop and grow in Christ, I am confident that we can have attitudes and behaviors like Christ. When we put our hearts and minds for Christ, we will succeed as followers. I am convinced!
With the help of the Holy Spirit, everything is possible. Becoming like Jesus is a tough goal in this Satan’s world; however, we should not be disappointed as we can make choices. God created us in His own image and gave us the ability to make choices. We just have to invite the Holy Spirit to work in us, to guide us and He will!
Are you a high achiever and a goal-oriented person for becoming like Christ? I wanted to be in partnership with you!
‘Love that you emphasized this important point.