What does "received Christ Jesus as Lord" mean for personal faith commitment? Setting the Scene “Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him,” (Colossians 2:6). Unpacking “Received” To “receive” (Greek: παραλαμβάνω) is more than intellectual assent. It speaks of taking hold, welcoming, embracing. • John 1:12—“But to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” • 1 Thessalonians 2:13—believers “received the word of God… as it truly is.” Personal faith commitment begins the moment the heart welcomes Christ and trusts His finished work. The Full Title: “Christ Jesus as Lord” • Christ—recognition of Him as the promised Messiah who fulfills every prophecy. • Jesus—historical, crucified, risen Savior. • Lord—sovereign Master with total authority (Acts 2:36). Receiving Him means acknowledging every aspect at once: Messiah, Savior, and undisputed King. Components of Genuine Reception 1. Repentance—turning from self-rule (Acts 3:19). 2. Faith—resting on His atoning death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). 3. Confession—open declaration of His lordship (Romans 10:9-10). 4. Surrender—placing every arena of life under His command (Luke 6:46). Walking in the One You Received Paul moves immediately from receiving to walking, underlining that initial faith blossoms into daily life: • Colossians 2:7—“rooted and built up in Him.” • Galatians 2:20—“I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” Ongoing trust and obedience prove the authenticity of the reception. Visible Markers of a Life that Has Received Him • Growing love for Scripture (Psalm 119:97). • Prayerful dependence (Philippians 4:6-7). • Evident fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). • Practical holiness and moral courage (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Commitment to fellowship and service in the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Gratitude, the dominant tone (Colossians 2:7). Guarding the Commitment Colossians 2:8 warns of philosophies that “take you captive.” Staying anchored involves: • Regular doctrinal nourishment (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Discernment through the Spirit (1 John 4:1). • Community accountability (Ephesians 4:15-16). Summing It Up To have “received Christ Jesus as Lord” is to have personally embraced Him—crucified, risen, reigning—and to live every day under His gracious rule. Initial faith blossoms into lifelong obedience, heartfelt worship, and steady growth, proving that the One received still leads every step. |
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