Obstacles to Living Out Christ's Character and Example

This truth addresses the heart of every believer, as they strive to live out Christ's character and example in their daily lives. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to them that love God," yet many obstacles can hinder this pursuit. One common obstacle is the remnants of the old self, with its sinful tendencies and desires, which can lead to a struggle with fleshly appetites and worldly affections. This struggle can be intense, as the old self resists the work of the Holy Spirit in conforming the believer to the image of Christ.

The doctrine of sanctification is crucial in understanding how to overcome these obstacles, as it emphasizes the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in transforming the believer into the likeness of Christ. This process involves putting off the old self and putting on the new self, created in righteousness and true holiness. By abiding in Christ and relying on His strength, believers can overcome the obstacles that prevent them from living out His character and example. The gospel connection is clear, as the power of Christ's resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit enable believers to live a life that honors God.

As believers seek to overcome these obstacles, they must remember that their struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of darkness that seek to hinder their progress. With this in mind, they can trust in the sufficiency of God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to transform them into the image of Christ, and thus live out His character and example in their daily lives, bringing glory to God and advancing His kingdom.