Christ in You
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INTRODUCTION
Remember the television reality program titled Extreme Makeover? Each week two individuals were selected to undergo a number of procedures which would improve their appearance, self-image, and personal life. Over a period of several months they would have plastic surgery, major dental work, hair restyling, and be given a new wardrobe. Then there would be a celebratory revealing of the new person to their family and friends. Tears, hugs, smiles, applause, and varied exclamations were evident as the person displayed his or her new self.
In many ways this program provides a parallel to the tremendous transformation that comes about when Christ is allowed to live within us through salvation. The immediate exterior results vary from person to person. Some of the variables are age, personality, and previous lifestyle. We become new creations. We are changed through Christ and enabled to live in a new way. Of course, we still will face temptations as we strive to live this new life of holiness in relationship to our heavenly Father; it's not instant perfection.
When Christ dwells within us we enter a new life path. Prayer and Scripture study help us discover and apply the principles of life in Christ. It means seriously striving to fulfill all the potential now made available, allowing the truths of Scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit to be reflected in the totality of our life.
This lesson reminds us of the necessity of demonstrating the reality of our claim to be a believer. It speaks of the need to think, speak, and act in a Christlike manner. This means demonstrating in our word choice, manner of dress, and style of entertainment that we have been changed spiritually and now are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
I. LIVE IN CHRIST'S PRESENCE (John 14:19-24; 17:20-23)
A. Through Obedience (14:19-24)
19. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
20. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
21. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
22. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
23. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
24. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.
Jesus is having His last meal with the disciples prior to the upcoming arrest which will lead to the Crucifixion. The reality of Jesus' leaving lays heavily on their minds. Jesus has shared His preparations for the future and the promise of the Comforter who will not leave them. In verse 19 Jesus emphasizes the immediacy of His leaving. Their time together is very short. But then He offers a contrast between them and the world - those who have not believed.
Those within the world who have not accepted Jesus will be separated from Him both physically and spiritually. The disciples will experience the same physical separation as Jesus returns to the Father. However, as a result of the Resurrection, Jesus will continue to live and the disciples and all believers through the ages will have eternal life. Death will not be the final overcomer!
Though Christ ascends to the Father, His followers are assured of being able to experience the ongoing presence of Christ. Just as there is the intimate relationship of Christ dwelling within the Father, He also dwells within believers (v. 20). This mystical relationship doesn't make us little gods or partially divine; it does enable us to continue to experience Christ working and willing through us. Here we need to be reminded of Philippians 2:13: "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" (NIV).
This ongoing relationship and living in Christ's presence doesn't happen without effort on our part. It isn't sufficient for us to simply state our love for Christ. The Lord expects our obedience on a daily basis. Jesus states it very clearly in verse 21 of the text. If a person truly loves Him, then obedience to His words will be the priority. Obedience, in turn, provides the atmosphere for experiencing Christ's presence. The opposite is equally true. Disobedience is a sign of there being no love relationship (v. 24).
Our personal obedience is a distinct means by which we enjoy a relationship with our Savior and Lord. It supersedes any actions or words that try to cover our disobedience. Christ deserves and wants our total, specific obedience. There is no substitute.
B. Through Unity (17:20-23)
20. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21. That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: