How can acknowledging Jesus as "the Christ" impact your daily life decisions? Scripture Focus “Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’” (Matthew 16:16) What It Means That Jesus Is the Christ • “Christ” (Greek χριστός) means “Anointed One,” the promised King, Priest, and Prophet foretold in Scripture (Psalm 2:2; Isaiah 9:6–7). • As King, He holds absolute authority (Matthew 28:18). • As Priest, He mediates between God and humanity (Hebrews 4:14–16). • As Prophet, He reveals God’s final word (Hebrews 1:1–2). Daily Decision Filter Acknowledging Jesus as the Christ places every choice under His lordship: 1. Authority test—Does this action submit to His rule? (Colossians 3:17) 2. Purity test—Does this uphold holiness befitting His priesthood? (1 Peter 1:15–16) 3. Truth test—Does this align with His revealed word? (John 14:21) Practical Outworkings • Time Management – Prioritize worship, Scripture, fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). – Schedule rests, reflecting the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:27–28). • Relationships – Forgive as the Christ forgave (Ephesians 4:32). – Serve family and neighbors sacrificially (Philippians 2:3–5). • Work and Finances – Labor with integrity, “working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). – Steward resources for kingdom purposes (2 Corinthians 9:6–8). • Moral Choices – Reject sinful passions, remembering you were bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). – Speak truth in love, reflecting His prophetic voice (Ephesians 4:25). Resistance and Challenges • Cultural pressure to redefine morality (2 Timothy 4:3). • Personal doubts or weariness (Galatians 6:9). • Spiritual warfare opposing Christ’s reign (Ephesians 6:12–13). Encouraging Promises • The Christ is with you always (Matthew 28:20). • His grace is sufficient when decisions are hard (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Faithful obedience bears fruit now and eternally (John 15:5; Revelation 22:12). |