The Key to Effective Relationships is…
The gospel…in particular, the regular reminder (Heb. 3:13) of who we already are in Jesus Christ because of His finished work on our behalf.
These truths (called the indicative) are powerful weapons against our heart’s daily battle with idolatry (sin).
When we act on these truths by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 1:17), not only do they defeat sin, they, at the same time, also motivate us to repentance, greater obedience (imperative) and holy living.
For example, consider Romans 6:11, that because of our union with Christ in his death and resurrection, we “are to consider ourselves dead to sin”. By faith, we are to consider ourselves dead to sin’s power and pleasure in our lives. This is a truth of which we need to be reminded.
Scripture is replete with these Identity statements, yet they don’t register in our devotional reading of scripture and we fail to use them effectively in our relationships.
Applying the gospel in our relationships requires intentionality. Faithful application will lead to what we desire most, to be more like Christ!
For a great resource we have created a booklet, “Who are You?”
Elders and heads of household: Consider how you can be more intentional in equipping those under your charge to learn and apply these simple statement to life!