Reflex 1
April 17, 2021

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Reflex - the natural way to live the Christian life.

Summary
John introduces our new series - Reflex which is based on his forthcoming book.
Rather than trying to be a follower of Jesus in a way that isn’t natural, discover the walk of rest that Jesus promises us.

Notes, Scriptures and Quotes
We are a society that is obsessed with striving for outcomes, measuring success and that often spills over into our walk with Jesus.
But what if it was far more simple - lighter and more natural than that? If the behaviours we are striving for were just a natural outcomes to the right sort of input?

A reflex is an automatic response that our bodies make. A reflex needs an input or stimulus and produces an outcome or response. This is how God has designed us spiritually - the behaviours we are striving for are natural reflexes to the right sort of input or stimulus

1 John 4:19 - We love because he first loved us.
Matthew 10:8 - Freely you have received; freely give.
John 15:5 - “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Matthew 11:28 - “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

The Christian life is a natural fruit bearing life but effort is needed. The effort is about providing the right stimulus. For us there is only one stimulus - the gospel. As you find ways to apply the gospel to your life daily and you will reflex and be transformed.

Grace is not opposed to effort. Grace is opposed to striving - Dallas Willard

Oh the power, the melting, conquering transforming power of that dear cross of Christ. We have but to constantly tell abroad the matchless story and we may expect to see the most remarkable spiritual results. The most flinty heart will be broken, with such a fire as the sweet love of Christ the most mighty iceberg will be melted. If we can but find occasion to bring the doctrine of Christ crucifed into contact with our nature it will change us. Christ will be our king. Charles Spurgeon

Questions for discussion

  1. By what ‘outcomes’ do you feel measured – by yourself, God or others?

  2. What standard do you feel you’re being measured against, and what is the impact of that?

  3. In what ways can you relate to the first line of the passage in Matthew 11:28? ‘Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion?