Test Yourself

In the culmination of our series on the Beatitudes, Bill Chapman brings forth a powerful message urging us to continually test ourselves in our discipleship journey. Drawing from Matthew 5:10-12, Chapman emphasises the necessity of daily surrendering to Christ, laying down our own desires and embracing His will.

Bill prompts us to reflect on our faith's robustness, challenging us to stand firm amidst trials and persecutions. He echoes Jesus' call to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him, as recounted in Luke 9:18-27. This is not a conditional commitment; it's a daily choice to die to self, be buried with Christ, and rise to new life through the Spirit.

Highlighting Galatians 5:13-26, Bill underscores the importance of walking by the Spirit, crucifying the flesh's desires, and living in accordance with God's command to love one another. He emphasises that true discipleship requires prioritszing Jesus above all else, even if it means sacrificing familial ties or material wealth, as elucidated in Luke 9:57-62 and Luke 18:18-30.

Bill challenges the congregation to examine their hearts, questioning whether they follow Jesus conditionally or wholeheartedly. He addresses common misconceptions, reminding us that discipleship entails embracing suffering, humility, patience, kindness, and obedience, even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular.

In conclusion, we are called to be people who live for God's glory, willingly disciplining ourselves to Christ each day. Surrendering fully, picking up our cross and relinquishing all we are to follow Him. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder of the high cost of discipleship and the transformative power of wholehearted devotion to Christ.