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Study 14 of 19

Christ, the Believers’ Example

Christ is our Saviour first and our pattern of Spirit-dependent living.

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

Synopsis

In chapter 14, Sequeira examines christ, the believers’ example within the larger question of Christ’s humanity and the everlasting gospel. We need His saving righteousness before we can follow His pattern in faith. Genuine human obedience lived in dependence upon the Father rather than independent self-sufficiency. No. We follow His faith and love; His redemptive work remains unique. He chose service and self-giving obedience rather than status and self-exaltation. The study invites the reader to test the author’s argument with Scripture and apply it without losing either Christ’s sinlessness or the priority of grace.

Key points

  • We need His saving righteousness before we can follow His pattern in faith.
  • Genuine human obedience lived in dependence upon the Father rather than independent self-sufficiency.
  • No. We follow His faith and love; His redemptive work remains unique.
  • He chose service and self-giving obedience rather than status and self-exaltation.
  • His human struggle and victory are real, not a performance detached from human experience.
  • Abiding in Christ and depending on the Spirit rather than trusting unaided willpower.

Key texts

  • 1 Peter 2:21–24
  • Philippians 2:5–8
  • John 15:4–5

Chapter reading

Chapter 14 · Read this chapter

    Put it into practice

    • Read chapter 14 before answering and compare the argument with 1 Peter 2:21–24.
    • Write your own explanation before revealing the model answer.
    • Discuss one practical implication with your study group and pray for a Christ-centered response.
    1. Comprehension

      1. Why must Christ as Redeemer come before Christ as Example?

    2. Doctrinal Clarity

      2. What did Christ’s earthly dependence reveal?

    3. Contrast

      3. Does following Jesus mean reproducing His unique atoning role?

    4. Comprehension

      4. How does Christ’s humility confront self-centered religion?

    5. Doctrinal Clarity

      5. Why does real temptation matter to Christ’s example?

    6. Application

      6. What is the practical secret of fruitful Christian obedience?

    7. Scripture

      7. Read 1 Peter 2:21–24. What does this passage contribute to the chapter’s teaching on christ, the believers’ example? Cite a specific phrase and explain its context.

    8. Scripture

      8. Read Philippians 2:5–8. What does this passage contribute to the chapter’s teaching on christ, the believers’ example? Cite a specific phrase and explain its context.

    9. Scripture

      9. Read John 15:4–5. What does this passage contribute to the chapter’s teaching on christ, the believers’ example? Cite a specific phrase and explain its context.

    10. Application

      10. How would you explain this truth to a discouraged church member: We need His saving righteousness before we can follow His pattern in faith.?

    11. Application

      11. What mistaken conclusion should you avoid when applying this chapter’s teaching: His human struggle and victory are real, not a performance detached from human experience.?

    12. Application

      12. Name one change in your prayer, Bible study, or ministry that follows from this principle: Abiding in Christ and depending on the Spirit rather than trusting unaided willpower.