Church People vs Christ Followers

A few weeks ago our pastor preached a sermon titled, "Church People or Christ Followers" and it was such a good one. I always like to review the sermon throughout the week, and this one I kept coming back to. So after going back over it a few times, and looking at my notes I decided to share it with everyone.

*Note: I am not claiming this as mine, I am sharing the notes that I took during the sermon*

Let's first look at "Church People" (the people who come to church, but aren't exemplifying Christ throughout all areas of their life)

1. You come to church for yourself (come so that you look good for others, impress people, meet a standard, etc)

2. Your life looks like hypocrisy (you spend Sunday doing the "talk" but not following through with the "walk" during the rest of the week)

3. Hinder the gospel (judging)

Now lets be honest, we have all been a "church person" at some point. We live in a fallen world and we will all stumble at some point.

So lets compare and looks at "Christ Followers"

1. People who sacrifice (Refer to Galatians 2:20 and Luke 14:33)

2. People who serve (Refer to 1 Peter 4:10)

3. People who spur each other on (Refer to Hebrews 10:24)

4. People who spread the gospel (Refer to Matthew 28:19)

*These are the standards we should be aiming for each and every day*

I'll be the first to say that being a Christ Follower is not the easiest road. You will be met with challenges daily. It may be the entertainment you choose, the way you talk to your spouse, how you represent your faith in daily life. But if you can fight the false ways, the sinful ways, your reward will be great.

Let's all do better💗

Perspective

 Perspective: the capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance

How often do you evaluate your perspective on something? The last few months it has been something that I have done frequently. Constantly looking at a situation to determine if I am giving it the appropriate amount of emotion.

The glass of water I spilled... not a big deal
The mailing of Christmas cards on time... it will be okay
Letting my kids eat too much sugar... it won't make a difference here and there

Telling people about the love of God... big deal
Making an effort to talk to the people I care about... important
Thanking God for every day He gives me... worth it

Christmas season is always full of stress (for me at least). Stressing about the presents I need to buy, coordinating family functions, getting all the cute pictures, etc. I always feel like I'm running 5 different directions, and not giving anything my full attention. Then I always feel like I'm not doing enough, not meeting the expectations of the world. 

But I want to share something with you that I have realized, it's okay. You can say no to things that aren't bringing joy. You can skip out on Santa pictures or Christmas crafts. You don't have to fake happiness with people who aren't good for you just because they are family. But you should thank God for everything you have. You should hold close to those you love. You should do things that fill your cup. 

This life we have right now is not guaranteed. Anything and everything can change in a moment. I don't mean to sound morbid during a season of joy, I just want you to know that your joy may look different than other people's, and that it's okay! 

Here is my suggestion to make the most of your Christmas season:

First and foremost, thank God for the life you are getting to live. For the family and friends you hold dear. For the house you have, the food on your table, and all the small things.

Second, focus on the things that bring you joy, whatever that is. 

Third, be sure to get to church for a Christmas service. Whether that be on Sunday for a traditional service, or a Christmas Eve celebration. You won't be disappointed that you went. 

Lastly, love those around you. Hold close to the people who are most important. Tell them about the love of Jesus. Show them the love of Jesus.

I pray that each of you have a Merry Christmas!