In what ways can honoring Jesus impact our witness to others? Setting the Foundation John 5:23: “so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.” Honoring Jesus—What It Means - Acknowledging His full deity and equality with the Father (Colossians 1:15-19). - Submitting to His teachings without reservation (Luke 6:46). - Worshiping Him openly, privately, and consistently (Revelation 5:12-13). - Trusting His atoning work as the sole basis of salvation (Acts 4:12). - Letting His character shape our thoughts, words, and actions (Galatians 2:20). How Honoring Jesus Shapes Our Witness • Credibility: When our words about Christ match a life that magnifies Him, people see authenticity (1 John 2:6). • Clarity: Honoring Jesus makes the gospel message unmistakable—He is Lord, not merely a moral teacher (Philippians 2:9-11). • Connection: By honoring the Son we also honor the Father, showing a complete picture of God’s nature (John 5:23). • Conviction: A life centered on Christ’s worth confronts apathy and prompts spiritual reflection in observers (Acts 16:29-30). • Compassion: Honoring the Servant-King fosters humble service, opening doors for the gospel (Mark 10:45). • Courage: Esteeming Christ above all frees us from fear of rejection, enabling bold testimony (2 Timothy 1:7-8). Scripture Echoes That Amplify the Point - 1 Peter 3:15: “But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense…” (Honoring Jesus internally equips us for external witness.) - Matthew 10:32: confessing Christ publicly leads to His acknowledgment before the Father. - Psalm 29:2: give the Lord the glory due His name; worship fuels witness. - Titus 2:10: “so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.” Practical Ways Honor Becomes Visible 1. Speak His name gratefully in everyday conversation, not just in church settings. 2. Prioritize obedience to difficult commands—forgiveness, purity, generosity—showing His lordship is real. 3. Celebrate answered prayer publicly, giving credit to Jesus rather than coincidence. 4. Handle suffering with hopeful confidence in Christ; people notice peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). 5. Serve neighbors sacrificially, explaining that love flows from Christ’s love for us (John 13:34-35). 6. Guard digital and in-person speech; honoring language underscores an honoring heart (Ephesians 4:29). Bringing It All Together Honoring Jesus is not an optional add-on to Christian living; it is the very pulse of our witness. As we prize Him above all, people encounter a clear, compelling picture of the Savior who is worthy of the same honor we give the Father. |
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