Christ in You
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative purpose of Christianity to make believers embody the nature and actions of Christ.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the ultimate goal of Christianity is to transform believers into the likeness of God, enabling them to act in accordance with His nature. He asserts that true religion manifests in moral actions, and that a genuine Christian embodies Christ, reflecting His character in their lives. While acknowledging the unique incarnation of Christ, Tozer explains that believers also carry Christ within them, allowing them to act in ways that align with God's holiness. He highlights that God, even in human form, remained true to His divine nature, demonstrating that His actions are always consistent with His character.
Text
The supreme purpose of the Christian religion is to make men like God in order that they may act like God. In Christ the verbs to be and to do follow each other in that order.
True religion leads to moral action. The only true Christian is the practicing Christian. Such a one is in very reality an incarnation of Christ as Christ is the incarnation of God; not in the same degree and fullness of perfection, for there is nothing in the moral universe equal to that awful mystery of godliness which joined God and man in eternal union in the person of the man Christ Jesus; but as the fullness of the Godhead was and is in Christ, so Christ is in the nature of the one who believes in Him in the manner prescribed in the Scriptures.
God always acts like Himself wherever He may be and whatever He may be doing. When God became flesh and dwelt among us, He did not cease to act as He had been acting from eternity. "He veiled His deity but He did not void it." The ancient flame dimmed down to spare the helpless eyes of mortal men, but as much as was seen was true fire. Christ restrained His powers but He did not violate His holiness. In whatsoever He did He was holy, harmless, separate from sinners and higher than the highest heaven.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The supreme purpose of Christianity - The relationship between being and doing in Christ - The nature of true religion
- II points: - The practicing Christian as an incarnation of Christ - The mystery of godliness - The fullness of the Godhead in believers
- III points: - God's consistent nature and actions - The incarnation of Christ - The holiness of Christ in His actions
Key Quotes
“The supreme purpose of the Christian religion is to make men like God in order that they may act like God.” — A.W. Tozer
“True religion leads to moral action.” — A.W. Tozer
“He veiled His deity but He did not void it.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Strive to reflect God's character in your daily actions.
- Engage in practices that deepen your relationship with Christ.
- Recognize the holiness of God in all aspects of life.