We Are Visible Presence Of Christ

This fall, we are exploring what the Bible says about who we are as God's people, focusing on the images of Kingdom of God, Family of God and Body of Christ. As God's people, we are the Body of Christ. At a very basic level, this means we are Christ's visible representation on earth (Jn. 20:21; 2 Cor. 3:2-6), which is made possible through God giving us the Holy Spirit. We Are the Visible Representation of Christ on earth. Where did He go? While Jesus was expected to extend His popularity by hanging out with the "in" crowd, He very often challenged this by going to the "lost" and the "least." (Mt. 9:12-14; Mk. 1:35-38; Luke 19:10; Jn. 4:4-9) How willing are we to go beyond our comfort zones to those who truly need the love and truth of Christ? What did He do? Jesus' actions were governed by what "the Father was doing" (Jn. 5:19). He declared that His followers were to do the same (Jn. 14:9-13). How intentional are we in asking God to make us aware of His activity all around us? How willing are we to follow? What did He say? Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of restoration He was bringing and invited people to become part of this Kingdom (Mk. 1:14-15). How willing are we to speak the gracious truth about Christ's story of restoration? Discussion/Reflection Questions - To be part of the Body of Christ means that we are His visible representation on earth. How do you respond to this image? How are you challenged and/or encouraged by this image? - Who are the "lost" and the "least" God has placed on your "radar?" - What might it look like for you to become more attentive to what God is doing in the lives and situations of the people around you? - How has God brought restoration to your life? What might be some opportunities to talk about God's restoring work with those who are not yet followers of Christ? - What might it look like for you this Advent season to take more seriously the truth that as a follower of Christ, given His Holy Spirit, you are called to be a part of the visible representation of Christ on earth?