Jesus’ Gold Standard of Morality

So, what does it mean to be a good person?

Two things:

• Live like Jesus

• Live with Jesus

Here’s what I mean by that…

Live Like Jesus

Jesus is the gold standard of morality.

He is the only human who lived an entirely good life.

So, if we want to know what a good person’s life looks like, then look at the life of Jesus.

Thankfully, the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) give us a good overview of what that life was like.

We see Jesus’ interactions with others, what He taught, what His prayer life was like, and so on…

Since His time, Jesus’ example has become the bedrock of morality in much of the world and He continues to be the definitive symbol of what a good person is.

But it’s one thing to emulate a good person and another thing to become one…

…which is why we also need to…

Live With Jesus

The spiritual life isn’t about trying really hard - it’s about being transformed.

It’s a transformation we cannot accomplish on our own - it’s one in which, harkening back to my Calvinist friends, we need God’s grace.

That’s why such a life isn’t just about doing good deeds (though that is important) but also, as Jesus said, abiding in God (John 15v1-17).

Life with Jesus makes it so our good actions come from a good place.

That’s a tricky thing because it requires an active relationship with God , thankfully such a relationship is something He’s always interested in giving.

So, what does it mean to be a good person?

Well, it means to emulate the character and actions of Jesus through the life He’s given you.

It also means to abide in God, seeking His Holy Spirit to transform you from the inside out so that your actions and inner life line up.

It’s a constant journey, and a tough one at that, but so long as a life of abiding in God remains the center, you won’t be lacking anything.

Have a wonderful rest of your week and until next time.

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

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