The World - In It But Not Of It Sample

Remembering our identity in Christ is important as we take the message of God’s love into the world.

Having the right perspective on 1) people in the world and 2) people in the family of God is just as important.

1) If God sent Jesus into the world to save the world and not condemn it, we do not have the right to condemn anyone either. The only difference between us and those who are hostile to God is that we have been adopted into God’s family by grace. The Bible sums up this idea by saying, “It wasn’t so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn’t know the first thing about living, tell you how to live.” (from Ephesians 2, The Message) Remember: “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

2) Following Jesus’ prayer of protection, He prays that all those who believe in Him would be brought to complete unity. Whenever we encounter other people in God’s family who have different backgrounds than us or who enjoy different worship styles or who have different opinions, we must remember that Jesus is our peace and He creates in himself one new family, one new humanity. This unity of God’s people will help the world know Jesus and His love.

REFLECTION

Who in your life is difficult to love and not condemn?

How does Jesus' deep grace towards you help you give grace to others?

What does living in God’s family in unity look like?

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