The Crown of Character: Virtue in the Christian Life
A subject that speaks to the very essence of our calling as Christians: virtue. In a world often marked by moral ambiguity, we are called to shine as beacons of righteousness, reflecting the character of our Savior. Let us explore the scriptures and discover the path to a life adorned with virtue.
1. Virtue is a Calling from God to His Children: A Life of Excellence
Philippians 4:8 exhorts us, “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Virtue is a calling from God to His children. We are not called to mediocrity, but to a life of excellence, where our thoughts and actions reflect the holiness of God.
2. Virtue Begins with the Fear of the Lord: The Foundation of Wisdom
Proverbs 9:10 reminds us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Virtue begins with the fear of the Lord. True virtuous character is not born from self-righteousness, but from a heart that reveres God and seeks His wisdom. It is in humility before Him that we find the path to righteousness.
3. Virtue Must Be Added to Our Faith: Completing Our Spiritual Journey
2 Peter 1:5 instructs us, “Add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge.” Virtue must be added to our faith. Faith without works is dead. We are called to grow spiritually, developing virtues that reflect the character of Christ. Our faith must be accompanied by a life of integrity and good deeds.
4. Virtue is Manifested in the New Creation: Love and Truth
Galatians 6:15 declares, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value, but a new creation.” A virtuous life is reflected in sincere love and commitment to the truth. When we are made new in Christ, our lives are transformed, and we begin to walk in righteousness.
5. Virtue Involves Self-Control: Mastering Our Impulses
Proverbs 16:32 teaches us, “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” Virtue involves self-control. Being virtuous means mastering our emotions, impulses, and desires. It is about bringing every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
6. True Virtue Comes from a Pure Heart: The Wellspring of Righteousness
Matthew 5:8 proclaims, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” True virtue comes from a pure heart. Virtue is not just an outward display; it begins within, in a heart transformed by God’s grace. It is from a pure heart that righteous actions flow.
7. Virtue Enables Us to Face Temptations: Resisting Evil
1 Thessalonians 5:22 instructs, “Flee every appearance of evil.” Those who live virtuously know how to say “no” to sin. They are equipped to resist temptation and escape the snares of the enemy. It is in our commitment to virtue that we find strength to stand against evil.
8. Virtue Makes Us Light in the World: Glorifying God
Matthew 5:16 urges us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” A life of virtue inspires others and glorifies God’s name. Our righteous actions shine as a light in a dark world, drawing others to the saving grace of Christ.
9. Virtue is the Fruit of the Holy Spirit: The Source of Transformation
Galatians 5:22-23 reveals, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” We cannot be virtuous on our own; we need the Holy Spirit to work within us. It is the Spirit who produces the fruit of virtue in our lives, transforming us into the likeness of Christ.
10. Virtue Prepares Us for the Kingdom of God: An Eternal Reward
1 Corinthians 9:25 reminds us, “And everyone who strives for the kingdom of God is temperate in all things. They do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible crown.” A virtuous life is a preparation for eternity. God calls us to live in holiness and righteousness, knowing that our reward is not a fleeting crown, but an eternal inheritance.
- Sermon on Valleys of Life
- Sermon on Vanity: Everything is vanity
- Sermon on Vulnerability in the Christian Life
Conclusion
Let us embrace the calling to virtue, allowing the Holy Spirit to shape us into the image of Christ. May our lives shine as beacons of righteousness, glorifying God and drawing others to His saving grace. Amen.
