The Evidence Of Those Who Are Believers (Clip)
James Jennings explains that the true evidence of a believer is living according to God's will, reflecting the mind of Christ through selfless concern for others' spiritual growth.
This sermon delves into the criteria for entering heaven as outlined in Matthew 7, emphasizing the importance of doing the will of the Father as evidence of true belief, rather than a works-based salvation. It connects this concept with the mindset of Christ discussed in Philippians 2, highlighting the need to have a mind focused on God and the Spirit, mirroring that of Jesus. This mindset involves not only looking out for our own interests but also prioritizing the spiritual well-being and progress of others, echoing Paul's sentiments in the same book.
Full Transcript
This goes along with Matthew 7. Picture of Judgment Day. Who goes to heaven? The way he says it there, it's not teaching a work salvation, but he says it's the One who does the will of My Father. That is the evidence of a person who's a believer.
We see it again in Philippians 2. The mind of Christ. That's the same reality here, right? We have a mind not set on the flesh, but on God, on the Spirit. And we see that mindset in Philippians 2. And he says there, have this mind among you which is in Christ Jesus.
And that mindset is one of looking not only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others. And you know from Paul in chapter 1, what he's saying there is the interest of others, their spiritual well-being, right? Because that's why he desired to remain. For their progress in the faith.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Evidence of a True Believer
- Not works-based salvation but doing God's will
- Reference to Judgment Day in Matthew 7
- Doing the will of the Father as proof of faith
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II. The Mind of Christ
- Mindset not set on flesh but on Spirit
- Philippians 2: having the mind of Christ
- Looking beyond self to others' interests
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III. Concern for Others’ Spiritual Well-being
- Paul’s desire for others’ progress in faith
- Selflessness as a mark of Christian maturity
- Spiritual growth as a communal journey
Key Quotes
“The way he says it there, it's not teaching a work salvation, but he says it's the One who does the will of My Father.” — James Jennings
“Have this mind among you which is in Christ Jesus.” — James Jennings
“Looking not only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — James Jennings
Application Points
- Examine your life to see if your actions reflect doing God's will as evidence of your faith.
- Cultivate the mind of Christ by focusing on spiritual priorities rather than fleshly desires.
- Actively care for the spiritual well-being of others as a demonstration of genuine Christian love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does doing God's will mean salvation is earned by works?
No, James Jennings clarifies that doing God's will is evidence of genuine faith, not a means to earn salvation.
What does having the mind of Christ mean?
It means adopting a mindset focused on God and the Spirit, prioritizing others’ spiritual interests over selfish desires.
Why is concern for others important in the Christian life?
Because spiritual growth is communal, and caring for others’ faith reflects Christlike love and maturity.
Which scripture highlights the evidence of believers?
Matthew 7:21 emphasizes that those who do the will of the Father are the ones who enter the kingdom of heaven.