Christ in You

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INTRODUCTION

Remember the television reality program titled Extreme Makeover? Each week two individuals were selected to undergo a number of procedures which would improve their appearance, self-image, and personal life. Over a period of several months they would have plastic surgery, major dental work, hair restyling, and be given a new wardrobe. Then there would be a celebratory revealing of the new person to their family and friends. Tears, hugs, smiles, applause, and varied exclamations were evident as the person displayed his or her new self.

In many ways this program provides a parallel to the tremendous transformation that comes about when Christ is allowed to live within us through salvation. The immediate exterior results vary from person to person. Some of the variables are age, personality, and previous lifestyle. We become new creations. We are changed through Christ and enabled to live in a new way. Of course, we still will face temptations as we strive to live this new life of holiness in relationship to our heavenly Father; it's not instant perfection.

When Christ dwells within us we enter a new life path. Prayer and Scripture study help us discover and apply the principles of life in Christ. It means seriously striving to fulfill all the potential now made available, allowing the truths of Scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit to be reflected in the totality of our life.

This lesson reminds us of the necessity of demonstrating the reality of our claim to be a believer. It speaks of the need to think, speak, and act in a Christlike manner. This means demonstrating in our word choice, manner of dress, and style of entertainment that we have been changed spiritually and now are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I. LIVE IN CHRIST'S PRESENCE (John 14:19-24; 17:20-23)

A. Through Obedience (14:19-24)

19. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.

20. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

21. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

22. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

23. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

24. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.