Preaching on The Duty of a Christian

The profound and transformative calling placed upon us as Christians. We gather today to understand the weight and the beauty of our duty, a duty not of burden, but of love and devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

1. The Duty to Deny Self and Follow Christ (Matthew 16:24)

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." This is the foundational call, the bedrock of our Christian duty. Following Christ demands a radical renunciation of self. It is not merely an intellectual assent, but a complete surrender of our will to His. The cross, a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, represents our unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of adversity.

2. The Duty to Prioritize Christ Above All (Luke 14:26)

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life too, he cannot be my disciple." This passage often causes confusion, but it is not a call to literal hatred. Rather, it emphasizes the absolute priority of Christ in our lives. Our love for Him must surpass all earthly affections. It is a call to place Him at the very center of our existence, above all relationships and desires.

3. The Duty of Carrying the Cross Daily (Luke 14:27)

"And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." Carrying the cross is not a one-time event, but a daily commitment. It signifies our willingness to endure hardship, to face challenges, and to persevere in our faith. It is a call to fidelity, to remain steadfast in our devotion to Christ, regardless of the cost.

4. The Duty to Mortify the Works of the Flesh (Romans 8:13)

"For if you live after the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." The Christian life is a constant struggle against the desires of the flesh. We are called to live according to the Spirit, to subdue our sinful nature, and to pursue righteousness. This is not a passive endeavor, but an active and ongoing battle for spiritual growth and eternal life.

5. The Duty to Bear with the Weak in Faith (Romans 15:1)

"But we then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Our Christian duty extends beyond our personal walk with God. We are called to support and edify our brothers and sisters in faith, especially those who are struggling. Love for others must supersede our selfish desires. We are to be a source of strength and encouragement to those who are weak.

6. The Duty to Crucify the Flesh with its Passions (Galatians 5:24)

"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." True Christians do not live for the fleeting pleasures of the world. We have crucified our flesh with its passions and desires. Sanctification is not a destination, but a continuous journey, a lifelong pursuit of holiness.

Conclusion

Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us embrace the fullness of our Christian duty. Let us deny ourselves, prioritize Christ above all, carry our crosses daily, mortify the works of the flesh, bear with the weak, and crucify our passions. Let us strive to live lives that reflect the love and grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us remember that this duty, though demanding, is also a source of immeasurable joy and fulfillment. Amen.

Preaching on The Duty of a Christian