Gospel-centered motives for Christ-centered living

Anthony Stevens, Worship Director, New Covenant Bible Church

(All Bible passages are from ESV)

We need solid motivations towards the things we hope to see.

11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience. 12 We are not commending ourselves to you again but giving you cause to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer those who boast about outward appearance and not about what is in the heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; 15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. —2 Corinthians 5:11-15 (ESV)

They don’t live reactive lives. They live responsive lives.

The freedom we receive in Christ is that we don’t have to be the best. He is not looking for perfection!

34 Jesus answered them, Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. 35 The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. —John 8:34-36

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. —Matthew 6:33

For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. —2 Corinthians 5:13

You have to be beside yourself before the Lord before you can ever be the best of your right mind in front of others.

Paul and Timothy are so motivated by the love of Christ that they can’t help but operate out of that reality!

For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; (15) and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. —2 Corinthians 5:14-15

Take Home Truth

When we are rooted in the truth of the Gospel, we are free to boldly pursue God, minister to others well, and walk in the life-giving ways of the Kingdom.