The following series is based on a book written by Dr. Jeremy Ballard, “The Lordship of Jesus Christ.” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook) and Google Play (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work they are doing.
Affirming Jesus as Lord is more than just a doctrinal statement; it is foundational to Christian life, impacting everything from our personal spiritual journey to the well-being of communities and society at large. This declaration shapes our purpose, provides a moral compass, and unites believers in truth, service, and love. In this article, we’ll explore the profound significance of acknowledging Jesus as Lord and how it transforms individuals, churches, and societies.
Spiritual and Existential Importance
At its core, affirming Jesus’ lordship is a deeply personal and transformative decision. It is not just about accepting Jesus as Savior, but also submitting to His authority over every area of life. This relationship with Christ leads to spiritual renewal, addressing life’s existential questions and offering a deep sense of meaning and purpose. When we acknowledge Jesus as Lord, we not only receive forgiveness but also commit to living according to His teachings, which guide us toward kindness, fairness, and truth. Through prayer, Bible study, and worship, this affirmation becomes the foundation for spiritual growth and renewal, helping believers navigate life’s challenges with hope and purpose.
Unity Within Christian Communities
Affirming Jesus’ lordship fosters unity among believers. Just as a body is made up of many parts that work together, Christian communities are made stronger when they share this central affirmation. It unites individuals from diverse backgrounds, providing a common spiritual foundation rooted in love and service. As a result, believers support each other in times of difficulty, reconcile conflicts with love, and work together to spread the gospel. This unity is grounded in truth, where the love of Christ compels us to confront sin and repentance with grace, never compromising on the core truths of the gospel.
Contributions to Societal Well-Being
When Jesus is acknowledged as Lord, it extends beyond personal faith and shapes societal actions. Grounded in the values of love, compassion, forgiveness, and justice, this affirmation motivates believers to serve others, especially the marginalized. Throughout history, Christians have been at the forefront of movements for social justice, education, and humanitarian efforts, driven by their commitment to God’s kingdom. Churches become places of healing and support, promoting well-being both within and outside the Christian community. As Jesus’ lordship transforms lives, it has the power to influence culture—calling believers to be “salt and light” in the world, influencing the world for good by promoting ethical behavior, justice, and reconciliation.
Balancing Truth and Love in Evangelism
In today’s diverse world, evangelism must reflect both truth and love. While engaging in interfaith dialogue and respecting others, Christians must uphold Jesus’ exclusive claim as Lord (John 14:6). Evangelism isn’t about merely sharing ethics but about clearly articulating the gospel—the need for repentance, salvation through Christ, and the reality of sin. Thoughtful and respectful evangelism helps clarify misconceptions and builds bridges for understanding, while never compromising on the truth of the gospel. By sharing the love of Christ and confronting sin, Christians maintain a balance that speaks to both the heart and the mind, always pointing others to the hope and salvation found in Jesus.
Application
Affirming Jesus’ lordship has profound implications for how we live:
- Personal Transformation: It offers direction, purpose, and a moral compass, guiding us to live lives of holiness, truth, and love.
- Community Building: It strengthens Christian communities by promoting unity, service, and reconciliation, helping believers navigate difficult times with mutual support.
- Societal Impact: It drives believers to advocate for justice, support ethical behavior, and contribute to global needs, all while maintaining a strong commitment to truth.
- Evangelism: It calls for thoughtful, respectful engagement with others while holding firmly to the exclusive truth of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Affirming Jesus’ lordship is not just a theological concept—it is a way of life. It influences how we think, act, and interact with the world. It provides a moral compass, strengthens Christian communities, and drives believers to engage in social justice, ethical behavior, and missions. Ultimately, living under Jesus’ lordship means standing firm in the truth, loving others, and sharing the message of repentance and salvation with a world in need.
Join us next time as we discuss the impact of secularization on religious authority.
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