Christian Conduct, Part 2
Central Thought: The Christian is led by the Spirit of God to be a righteous model to the world in all things.
Hymn: “When We Walk With the Lord”
Text: Daniel 6:1-5; Matthew 5:13-16; Romans 12:10-21
There are lifestyles befitting of a child of God, there are words that are apt and proper and conducts that show forth the praises of God. These we must desire to know and faithfully uphold. The Christian is not at liberty to live anyhow. He is constrained by the Spirit of God to be a righteous model to the society in all things.
Lesson Objectives:
- To discuss some attitudes the Christian must embrace in life.
- To explain what the attitude of the Christian should be towards civic and social issues.
- To discuss the consequences of little errors and benefits of good conduct.
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Discuss some attitudes usually exhibited in good conduct. Romans 12:10-21
There are acceptable behavior patterns and character that is befitting of a Christian, both in personal life and in official life. The child of God is expected always to manifest holiness, truth, hard work, intelligence, calmness and cordiality. He represents heaven, and every step of his, is a life-message to those beholding on what Christianity stands for. He must be careful not to imitate the craftiness of unbelieving colleagues and friends. He is to exhibit inner joy at all times, patience towards opposition, be emphatic in rejecting sinful offers, and be gracious in victories. He is to picture God as part of his daily walk, and as the One to please in all things.
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What should be the attitude of the Christian towards civic/social duties? Romans 13:1-7
These are duties relating to the activities of government and people of a geographical area. The Christian must show interest in the good of the society and should be ready to conscientiously contribute towards its attainment. The Christian and the church are stakeholders in the events of our environment. The pollution and corruption in some sectors of our economy or politics is attributable to the preponderance of stack unbelievers in these sectors. Christians must also be vocal in their advocacy for righteousness and better society.
The Christian should learn to respect their parents, elders, seniors both in church and society, as he tries to please God.
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What are the consequences of “small” errors and compromises in Christians conduct?
“Small” errors of misconduct, on the part of a Christian, may lead to great consequences. Some of such consequences are pride, shame, disappointment, “polluted” testimony, guilt, backsliding, insecurity, etc.
The little things we do wrongly can lead a soul to hell, or contribute to lawlessness and crime in the society or empower some other evils. Above all, there is the danger of hell fire for those involved in conducts that do not glorify God.
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What are the benefits of good Christian conduct?
When we order our lives in good Christian conduct, several doors of blessings are opened to us and the church. The door of soul-winning and salvation is enlarged to receive souls in genuine surrender to Christ and God. We are counted for integrity and as custodians of truth in our environment. God is pleased with us and He marks us out for honor and recognition, John 12:26. We put Satan on hold and at bay because he has nothing in us. The name of our God is glorified and reverenced at all times, and most importantly we abide in the will of God and are sure candidates of heaven, 2 Timothy 4:8.
Daily Living Application:
Conduct and character reveal the quality of an inner self, and the level of regeneration of all Christian. Good Christian conduct brings transformation to our environment, glorifies the name of God and puts us in position to be influential. It is the duty of every believer to pattern his lifestyle in such a way that he radiates the light of God to illuminate his environment.
Memory Verse:
Matthew 5:14 – “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.”