How can we apply Jesus' example of works to our daily Christian walk? Setting the Verse in Context “ ‘If I am not doing the works of My Father, do not believe Me.’ ” (John 10:37) Jesus points to His visible, tangible deeds as proof that He truly represents the Father. His works and His words form one seamless testimony. Key Observations from John 10:37 • Works reveal identity. • Works validate message. • Works originate from the Father’s will, not human ambition. • Works invite honest examination: “If I’m not doing them, reject Me.” Why His Works Matter to Us • 1 Peter 2:21—Christ left us “an example, that you should follow in His steps.” • Ephesians 2:10—We are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” • James 2:18—“I will show you my faith by my deeds.” Genuine faith inevitably expresses itself in action. Living Out Jesus’ Example Daily 1. Imitate the Source • Begin each day surrendering your agenda to God’s. • Seek prompting from the Spirit before planning activities (Romans 8:14). • Filter opportunities: “Does this reflect the Father’s heart?” 2. Integrate Word and Work • Pair every Bible reading with one concrete act of obedience. • Example: Read John 13; then deliberately serve someone without recognition. 3. Prioritize Visible Love • John 13:35—“By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Look for needs at home, church, workplace; meet them quietly and consistently. 4. Practice Consistent Integrity • Colossians 3:23—Work “heartily, as for the Lord.” • Refuse shortcuts, exaggerations, or half-efforts; Jesus’ works were flawless. 5. Engage in Courageous Compassion • Matthew 9:36—Jesus was moved with compassion and acted. • Visit the sick, support the grieving, encourage the discouraged; let love cost you time and comfort. 6. Serve in the Power, Not Just the Pattern • John 15:5—“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” • Depend on prayer and the Spirit’s enabling; works done in self-strength lose eternal value. 7. Let Works Point Back to Christ • Matthew 5:16—Good deeds should cause others to “glorify your Father in heaven,” not admire us. • Redirect praise quickly and verbally to the Lord. Guarding the Gospel Balance • Salvation is by grace alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Works are evidence, not the basis, of saving faith (Titus 3:8). • We work from acceptance, not for acceptance (Romans 5:1). Practical Checklist for the Week - Identify one task you will do excellently to honor God. - Plan one anonymous act of generosity. - Start or deepen one relationship with intentional gospel kindness. - Review each evening: “Did my actions today reveal the Father’s heart?” Encouragement to Continue “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) |
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