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Study 08 of 10

Reproducing Christ in the Life

The goal of our life is to reproduce the life of Christ so others can believe on Him.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Prescott concludes by reflecting on the 'sailor illustration'—a story of a wicked man moved by a painting of Christ. The author longs for God to 'paint' Christ in his own life, not just on canvas, but in the reality of human experience. He believes that when the character of Christ is reproduced in a person's life, that life itself becomes a sermon that wins others to believe. This is the ultimate goal of the power of the Spirit: that our lives, as channels of light, would show forth the character of the Saviour. We must be channels through which He can manifest Himself, not seeking our own honor, but the salvation of souls.

Key points

  • The goal of the Christian life is to reproduce the character of Christ.
  • A life that reflects Christ becomes a powerful testimony to win others.
  • We are to be channels of light, not hiding that light under worldly policy.
  • The Spirit enables us to manifest Christ's character, which is the mission of every follower.

Key texts

  • 2 Corinthians 4:6
  • Matthew 5:14
  • John 17:23

From the book

Sermon 5 · Christian Living · Read this chapter

  • “Oh beloved, as I heard that story, the tears came unbidden to my eyes, and my heart glowed with a mighty longing.” (sermon 5)
  • “I thought if a poor, weak man, living himself in a godless land, could take his brush and preach on canvass, and cause our Christ to glow upon it, what might not my God do if he might paint Christ in me.” (sermon 5)
  • “The goal of the power of the Spirit is that our lives, as channels of light, would show forth the character of the Saviour.” (sermon 5)

Put it into practice

  • Pray that God will 'paint' the character of Christ in my life today.
  • Look for opportunities to be a channel of light for others.
  • Ask God to help me manifest His tenderness to those around me.
  1. Comprehension

    1. What was the result of the sailor seeing the painting of Christ?

  2. Doctrinal Clarity

    2. What is the author's deepest longing expressed after the story?

  3. Scripture

    3. What does it mean to be a 'channel of light'?

  4. Doctrinal Clarity

    4. Why is reproducing Christ more powerful than painting Him on canvas?

  5. Contrast

    5. What must happen for our lives to become these channels?

  6. Comprehension

    6. What is the mission of every follower of Christ?

  7. Scripture

    7. How can you make your life a better 'painting' of Christ today?

  8. Application

    8. What is the primary way your life can win someone to Christ today?