Reflecting on Christianity, I’m reminded of its universal nature. As Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19-20, Christianity is meant for all nations. Paul reiterates this in Romans 6:10, stating Christ died for every man. But while Christianity is universal, it’s also deeply personal. Our key text today is Philippians 2:12, where Paul urges us to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
Looking at Christ’s teachings, we find he often addressed individuals. For instance, in Luke 15:1-7, the parable of the lost sheep highlights Christ’s concern for each lost individual. Similarly, in the parable of the lost coin (Luke 15:8-10), we see the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. These parables underscore that every person matters in the eyes of God.
Becoming a Christian is an individual journey. No one can believe, repent, confess, or be baptized on your behalf. Each step towards salvation is a personal decision and action. Christian worship, too, is a personal duty. We are all responsible for our own participation in worship, whether it’s in prayer, singing, or giving.
Total commitment to Christ is a personal responsibility. In Matthew 8:19-22, Jesus emphasizes the importance of personal commitment over familial or social obligations. As Christians, we are accountable for our actions, and this accountability extends to our worship. We must be actively involved and not just passive participants.
In leadership within the church, it’s crucial that each leader be individually qualified. In Christianity, there are three kinds of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened. As Christians, we are called to be in the first category, actively involved in our faith and service.
So, where do you stand in your Christian life? If you’re not yet a Christian, the steps to becoming one involve hearing the Gospel, believing in Christ, repenting of your sins, confessing Jesus as Lord, and being baptized for the remission of sins. Living faithfully after baptism can be challenging, but remember, the grace that saved you in baptism continues to be available for forgiveness and strength.
