Leaving The Old Life | Sunday Service 021 | Elder Prossy Nyende

Leaving the Old Life Behind Christ calls us to come to Him just as we are, but He does not expect us to remain the same once we have entered His marvellous light. He does not expect us to cling to our baggage, old habits, or practices of unrighteousness. Rather, He calls us to lay aside every weight, every burden, and every sinful behaviour so that we may receive His rest and pursue the path of righteousness through repentance and faithfulness. Luke 13:22–30 The Bible emphasizes the need for believers to strive to enter through the narrow gate. This is an indication that there is a need to cut away sinful behaviours and embrace the journey of salvation by seeking the knowledge and understanding of God's Word and His ways. In Philippians 2:12, Paul exhorts believers to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Notice that Scripture does not tell us to work for our salvation, because salvation is a free gift that Christ has already secured for us through His death and resurrection. Rather, we are called to work it out—to allow the reality of our salvation to be reflected in our choices, habits, behaviour, and character. This is not a fear born of terror, but one of reverence, humility, and awe before the Lord our God. Luke 13:25 reminds us that the door will not remain open forever. Therefore, while we still have the opportunity, let us put our lives in order, live righteously, and honour God just as He is holy and righteous. We do this knowing that only God knows the day and hour when the door will be shut. When you sin and God spares you from immediate judgment, do not assume that He is unaware of your actions. God sees and knows all things. His patience should not be mistaken for approval. Rather, He is giving you an opportunity to repent, for He does not delight in the destruction of His people but desires that they turn from their ways and live. Sin is not only the result of committing evil acts; disobedience to God's instructions is also sin. Therefore, as Christians who desire to walk uprightly before God, we are called to live in obedience to His Word, testify of His goodness, and make known His wonderful works, love, and mercy to those around us. God has called us not only to Himself, through whom we obtain salvation, but also to His service through the Great Commission: to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18–20). As ministers of the Gospel, the Lord calls us to walk faithfully in the calling we have received, seeking above all else to do His will. We must serve with diligence and humility, remembering that "to whom much is given, much will be required" (Luke 12:48). May we therefore strive to enter through the narrow door, remain faithful to Christ, and live lives that bring glory and honour to His name. Be blessed as you listen.