Joyful Woman Praising God
Thematic Studies

Authentic Christianity

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27)

We pray this resource leads you deeply into the Word of God; into life-transforming intimacy with Christ at the very core of your being -- for this is authentic Christianity!

Authentic Christianity -- The Book
Preface Various
Ch 1: The Great Imitation 2 Corinthians 2:14-6:13
Ch 2: The Real Thing 2 Corinthians 2:14-16
Ch 3: The Secret 2 Corinthians 3:4-6
Ch 4: Two Splendors 2 Corinthians 3:7-8
Ch 5: Death Versus Life 2 Corinthians 3:7-11
Ch 6: The Enemy Within 2 Corinthians 3:12-18
Ch 7: The Enemy Without 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
Ch 8: Pots, Pressures and Power 2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Ch 9: Time and Eternity 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Ch 10: Our Highest Motivation 2 Corinthians 5:9-17
Ch 11: The Glory of Ministry 2 Corinthians 5:18-6:2
Ch 12: Exhibit A 2 Corinthians 6:3-13

Authentic Christianity

The whole Bible leads us to discover the glorious liberty of being a child of God. This life must be lived in relationship with God's Son, Jesus Christ, and is empowered by His indwelling Holy Spirit. This is the authentic life that mankind longs for, which has been promised and supplied to us in Christ's New Covenant. The power of that Covenant is simply Christ in you, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

Jesus has bought us with an incalculable price. His body was broken and His blood poured out for us. Now by His indwelling presence we offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, in praise and worship to Christ Jesus (Romans 12:1-2). His incalculable sacrifice transforms into our immeasurable joy!

Ray Stedman's book, Authentic Christianity states this well:

The authentic Christian life is essentially and radically different from the natural life lived by a man or woman. Outwardly, it can be very much the same, but inwardly the basis of living is dramatically different. Christ is a part of every wholesome action, the corrector of every wrong deed or thought, the giver of joy and the healer of hurt. No longer merely on the edges of life, Christ is the center of everything. Life revolves around him. As a consequence, life comes into proper focus. Despite outward trials, a deep peace possesses the heart, strength grips the spirit and kindness and joy radiate abroad. This is really living!

The Christian life is made authentic only by the indwelling Christ in you. Christ's glory is made known as:

  • We rest in His new covenant
  • We love His people as the body of Christ
  • We stand firm together against the enemy
  • We are guided by servant leaders who yoke with us
This is where Christ leads us. This is authentic Christianity!

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