Fixing Our Eyes on the Supreme Christ

Christ is not one voice among many. He is preeminent. "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:17). "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature" (Hebrews 1:3).

Our life and mission begin and end with Him. "Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:1–2).

Scripture: Our Unswerving Standard

We do not guess our way forward. We stand on what God has spoken. "Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth" (John 17:17). "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).

His Word lights the path when culture clouds our vision. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105). We refuse to be "tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching" (Ephesians 4:14).

- Read, hear, and obey the Word daily (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1–3).

- Hide it in your heart through memorization (Psalm 119:11).

- Discuss it in community and test all things (Acts 17:11).

- Teach it diligently in the home (Deuteronomy 6:6–9).

- Apply it immediately and specifically (James 1:22).

- Share it confidently because "faith comes by hearing" (Romans 10:17).

The Pull of the Age and the Call to Nonconformity

The world seduces, then devours. "Do not love the world or anything in the world... The world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God remains forever" (1 John 2:15, 17).

We refuse the mold of the moment. "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). "Friendship with the world is hostility toward God" (James 4:4).

- Reject outrage and slander; practice gentleness and truth (Titus 3:1–2).

- Reject impurity; pursue purity of heart and body (Ephesians 5:3–4; 2 Corinthians 7:1).

- Reject greed; practice contentment and generosity (Hebrews 13:5; 1 Timothy 6:6–8).

- Reject fear; rest in the peace of Christ (Philippians 4:6–7; John 14:27).

- Reject people-pleasing; seek the smile of God (Galatians 1:10).

First Things First: The Gospel at the Center

Our message does not change. "Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

This gospel is our power and purpose. "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation" (Romans 1:16). "In His name repentance and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all nations" (Luke 24:47). "We do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord" (2 Corinthians 4:5).

- Clarify the gospel often: God, sin, Christ, response.

- Keep cross and resurrection central in preaching, counseling, and discipleship.

- Share your testimony and Scripture simply and boldly.

- Train every believer to articulate the gospel clearly.

Faithful Presence in Daily Callings

Every calling is a platform for Christ. "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men" (Colossians 3:23). "Aspire to lead a quiet life, to attend to your own business, and to work with your hands... so that you may walk properly toward outsiders" (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12).

We live so others see and glorify God. "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). "Keep your conduct among the pagans honorable" (1 Peter 2:12).

- Practice excellence, integrity, and reliability.

- Speak truth, keep promises, repay debts, refuse gossip.

- Show mercy and practical help to the weak and overlooked.

- Share the hope within you with kindness and clarity.

Holiness That Shines

Holiness is not optional; it is our witness. "Be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy'" (1 Peter 1:15–16). "Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).

Grace trains us for godliness. The grace of God teaches us "to deny ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age" (Titus 2:12). "In which you shine as lights in the world" (Philippians 2:15).

- Confess sin quickly and walk in the light (1 John 1:9).

- Put off the old and put on the new (Ephesians 4:22–24).

- Guard eyes, hands, and habits (Job 31:1; Psalm 101:3).

- Walk with a few trusted believers for accountability (Hebrews 3:13).

Speech That Builds and Bears Witness

"Act wisely toward outsiders... Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt" (Colossians 4:5–6). "Always be prepared to give a defense... yet do it with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15). "A gentle answer turns away wrath" (Proverbs 15:1). "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths" (Ephesians 4:29).

- Refuse corrosive sarcasm and coarse joking.

- Slow down, listen carefully, and answer truthfully.

- Use Scripture naturally in conversations.

- Bless those who curse you and keep no record of wrongs.

Truth with Courage and Compassion

We do not edit God. "Speaking the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15), we declare "the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil" (Isaiah 5:20).

On life, marriage, and sexuality, God has spoken. "Male and female He created them" (Genesis 1:27). "What God has joined together, let man not separate" (Matthew 19:6). We hold these with conviction and kindness, remembering "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29).

- Be clear on what Scripture commands and forbids.

- Be compassionate toward the broken and repentant (1 Corinthians 6:11).

- Be consistent in personal conduct and church discipline.

- Be courageous when costs come, trusting Christ.

Gathered to Grow, Scattered to Go

We need the church. "Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together" (Hebrews 10:24–25). "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" (Acts 2:42).

Leaders equip, saints serve, the body builds. "He gave... pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry" (Ephesians 4:11–12). "Entrust to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2).

- Keep Word, prayer, and the ordinances central.

- Prioritize discipling relationships across generations.

- Mobilize every member for everyday mission.

- Plant and strengthen churches where Christ is not named.

Watchfulness, Prayer, and Fasting

"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). "In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6). Seasons of fasting sharpen mission. "When they had fasted and prayed... they sent them off" (Acts 13:3). "When you fast... your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you" (Matthew 6:16–18).

We stay sober and alert. "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion" (1 Peter 5:8). "Pray in the Spirit on all occasions" (Ephesians 6:18).

- Set daily times for Scripture-fed, Spirit-led prayer.

- Add weekly rhythms of fasting or focused intercession.

- Form prayer bands that carry burdens and names before God.

- Mark seasons for congregational prayer and commissioning.

Persevering Hope in a Hostile World

Suffering is expected, not exceptional. "In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). "Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). "Do not be surprised at the fiery trial... but rejoice" (1 Peter 4:12–13).

Our hope is unshakable. "We do not grieve like the rest, who have no hope" (1 Thessalonians 4:13). "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man... He will wipe away every tear" (Revelation 21:3–4). "Our citizenship is in heaven" (Philippians 3:20).

- Fix your eyes on Jesus and run with endurance (Hebrews 12:1–3).

- Encourage one another daily with the promises of God.

- Remember the crown that follows the cross (James 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:8).

- Keep eternal rewards in view and refuse bitterness.

Practices to Keep Christ Above Culture

We fight with different weapons. "The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world... We tear down arguments... and take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:4–5).

- Word: daily reading and meditation (Psalm 119:105; Joshua 1:8).

- Prayer: continual dependence with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6–7).

- Church: gathered worship and mutual care (Hebrews 10:24–25).

- Witness: everyday conversations and hospitality (Colossians 4:5–6).

- Mercy: doing good to all, especially the household of faith (Galatians 6:10).

- Rest: Sabbath rhythms that declare Christ is Lord (Exodus 20:8–11; Mark 2:27–28).

- Work: vocational faithfulness for God’s glory (Colossians 3:23).

- Family: intentional discipleship at home (Deuteronomy 6:6–9).

- Table: the Supper that proclaims "the Lord’s death until He comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26).

We keep going because He holds us fast. He will finish what He began (Philippians 1:6). He is with us always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20).

Conclusion: Above the Noise, Under His Lordship

Culture shifts like sand. Christ is the Rock. We gladly live under His Word, dependent on His Spirit, anchored in His church, and propelled by His gospel.

By grace, we hold the line and hold out the life. "He is the head of the body... so that in all things He may have preeminence" (Colossians 1:18). Christ above culture, Christ in us, Christ through us.

Not every cultural decision is black and white. Scripture binds the conscience where God speaks plainly and grants liberty where He has not. "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind" (Romans 14:5). "Everything that is not from faith is sin" (Romans 14:23).

We use freedom to love. "Be careful... that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak" (1 Corinthians 8:9). In all things, aim for God’s glory and a neighbor’s good. "Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).

- Major on clear commands; extend charity on disputable matters.

- Form convictions with an open Bible, humble heart, and wise counsel.

- Avoid binding others where God has not bound.

- Aim for edification, not mere personal expression.

Christ and Caesar: Submission and Civil Disobedience

God institutes authority for our good. "There is no authority except that which God has established" (Romans 13:1). "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution... Fear God, honor the king" (1 Peter 2:13, 17).

When rulers command what God forbids or forbid what God commands, we obey God. "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). Daniel’s courage and fidelity guide us (Daniel 3; 6).

- Practice principled submission with a clear conscience.

- Prepare for respectful, nonviolent civil disobedience when obedience to God requires it.

- Pray for leaders so we may live peaceful and godly lives (1 Timothy 2:1–2).

- Remember our ultimate allegiance to Christ the King (Revelation 1:5–6).

Truth in the Public Square: Contested Issues

Some truths carry cost. On the sanctity of life, we affirm personhood from the womb (Psalm 139:13–16). On marriage and sexuality, we affirm creation order and chastity (Genesis 1:27; Matthew 19:4–6; Romans 1:24–27).

We speak with tears, not taunts. The gospel saves and transforms. "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed... you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 6:11).

- Be biblically precise and pastorally careful.

- Offer grace and truth together, refusing both cruelty and compromise.

- Create pathways for repentance, restoration, and discipleship.

- Protect the vulnerable and confront wolves.

Technology, Attention, and Formation

Tools shape souls. "I will set no worthless thing before my eyes" (Psalm 101:3). "The eye is the lamp of the body" (Matthew 6:22). Many things are lawful, not all are helpful. "I will not be mastered by anything" (1 Corinthians 6:12).

Redeem the time. "Pay careful attention... not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time" (Ephesians 5:15–16). Form habits that deepen communion with God and love for neighbor.

- Audit screens, subscriptions, and scrolls.

- Create phone-free spaces and Scripture-first mornings.

- Prefer presence over performance, conversation over comments.

- Use technology to serve mission, not replace it.

Family Discipleship in a Chaotic Age

The home is a training ground for saints. "These words... you shall teach them diligently to your children" (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). "Fathers, do not provoke your children... bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4).

Establish simple, sturdy rhythms. Short, steady steps bear long fruit. Older saints strengthen the young (Titus 2:2–8).

- Open the Bible, pray, and sing together daily.

- Catechize hearts with Scripture and sound doctrine.

- Guard gates: content, companionships, and calendars.

- Model repentance, forgiveness, and joy.

Hospitality, Mercy, and Neighbor Love

Love breaks through suspicion. "Seek the welfare of the city" (Jeremiah 29:7). "As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone" (Galatians 6:10). Mercy adorns the message.

Hospitality is mission at the table. The Samaritan’s compassion shows the way (Luke 10:33–37). We open our homes and lives for Christ’s sake.

- Share meals with believers and unbelievers regularly.

- Meet practical needs with quiet faithfulness.

- Collaborate with churches for sustained mercy work.

- Link mercy to the message of the cross.

Suffering, Joy, and the Advance of the Gospel

Hard places are not hopeless places. Chains cannot bind the Word. Joy blooms in trial. "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer" (Romans 12:12).

Jesus builds His church through weakness and witness. "You will be My witnesses" (Acts 1:8). "In the Lord your labor is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58).

- Expect opposition and prepare your heart.

- Encourage missionaries and suffering saints tangibly.

- Tell stories of God’s faithfulness to strengthen courage.

- Keep the nations on your prayer lists and budgets.

Building Durable Churches

Strong churches are doctrinally sound, spiritually alive, and missionally engaged. They preach the Word, practice the ordinances, and shepherd souls.

They discipline in love, disciple intentionally, and deploy workers. They keep structure servant to the Spirit’s work.

- Anchor in expositional preaching and robust catechesis.

- Cultivate prayer, singing, and Scripture saturation.

- Train elders, deacons, and diverse ministry teams.

- Prioritize planting and revitalizing gospel churches.

A Rule of Life for Mission

A simple trellis supports fruitful vines. Craft a shared pattern that keeps Christ central and mission active.

Keep it clear, communal, and coachable. Build around worship, word, witness, and works of mercy.

- Daily: Scripture, prayer, and holy attention.

- Weekly: Lord’s Day worship, Sabbath rest, hospitality.

- Monthly: Fasting, service, and extended intercession.

- Quarterly: Retreat for renewal and recalibration.

- Annually: Review goals, celebrate fruit, reset rhythms.

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus" and run light, steady, and together (Hebrews 12:1–2). He is worthy, and He is with us.