Scripture Reading: John 15:9-15

Having a Relationship with Jesus

Things Concerning Christ (#10)

Intro.

1. We must have a relationship with Jesus Christ! But, we must know what that means according to the Scriptures.

2. We are quite convinced many do not know what it means:

a. What often passes for a relationship with Christ is nothing more than self-defined religion and spirituality, cf. Matt. 15:7-9.

b. "Personal, subjective experience" with Jesus. (Christ in You Ministries, James Fowler)

c. Evangelicals often proclaim and explain that to be a Christian is "to receive Jesus and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ." (Ibid) Yet, they reject His plan of salvation, saying obedience has nothing to do with being saved, Mk. 16:15-16; Heb. 5:8-9.

3. Many believe they have a relationship with Christ:

a. They say, "I am a Christian" ... But not truly disciples (Jno. 8:31).

b. When asked, Do you have a relationship with Jesus? "Yes"... But define it according to the wisdom of men and not the word of God, Matt. 7:21.

4. The Scriptures make it clear who does and does not have a relationship with Christ, as well as what that relationship is.

I. CHRIST CALLS EVERY SINNER TO COME TO HIM FOR SALVATION AND THE RELATIONSHIP THAT CONVERSION ESTABLISHES, Matt. 11:28-30.

A. God's Wants to Dwell with His People, 2 Cor. 6:16-18 (Ezek. 37:26-28). His sanctuary: His holy place, 2 Cor. 7:1.

B. The Gospel is God's Call to Come to Christ, Acts 2:37-41. (Believe, confess faith, repent and be baptized)

1. Coming to Christ means obtaining remission in order to have a relationship with Him, 1 Cor. 1:9.

2. Enter relationship by faith - baptized into Christ, Gal. 3:26-27.

C. All Spiritual Blessings are in Christ, Eph. 1:3 (chart).

1. Must be "in Christ" to be spiritually blessed.

2. Get "in Christ" by being baptized, Gal. 3:27; Rom. 6:3.

3. No relationship with Christ that is not arranged by His word.

II. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS UNDERSTOOD BY HOW IT IS DESCRIBED, Eph. 2:10.

A. Savior and the Saved, Acts 4:12. (Our praise, thanksgiving...)

B. Good Shepherd and His Sheep, Jno. 10:1-6, 7-16, 27-30. (Listen and follow His voice)

C. Bridegroom and His Bride (church), Eph. 5:22-32; Rom. 7:4. (Faithful and true, devoted)

D. King and Citizens in His Kingdom, Rev. 1:5-6 (Jno. 3:3, 5). (Allegiance)

E. Head and Members of His Body, Eph. 1:22-23; Col. 1:18 (1 Cor. 12:13). (Responsive, working acc. to His direction, Eph. 4:16)

F. High Priest and the Priests, Heb. 10:21; 1 Pet. 2:4-5. (Sacrifice)

G. The Lord and His Servants, Col. 3:17, 23-24. (Service)

H. Teacher and His Disciples, Lk. 6:40 (1 Jno. 4:17). (Learn and live)

I. Friends, Jno. 15:13-17. (Obey...abide in His love, 15:10. cf. Jas. 2:23)

J. Brethren, Heb. 2:11-12; 3:6. (Son of God over God's family)

III. ONE DOES NOT HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST WHILE LIVING IN DISOBEDIENCE, Lk. 6:46 (Matt. 7:21-23).

Conclusion

1. Someone says: "I know Jesus" or asks, "Do you know my Jesus?"

a. First of all, we must be sure we know Jesus, 1 Jno. 2:3-5.

b. It may be that I only think I know Him.

2. The Christian has a relationship with Jesus. That relationship is secure in Christ as we live by faith, doing His will.

By: Joe R. Price

Posted: October 15, 2014