January 25, 2009 “Where Are You” Jeremiah 29:13

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” -- Jeremiah 29:13

I. Exploring Christ Explorers may not be sure about making a profession of faith in Christ. They may not be ready to take that step. They may not be sure how to take that step. “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” -- Romans 10:9

I. Exploring Christ Personal faith is not a significant part of their life. Faith in Christ is still outside of who they are. “Church stuff” doesn’t influence them.

II. Growing in Christ They have a personal faith in Christ. They have taken the step of trusting Jesus. They have invited Him to have a prominent place in their lives.

II. Growing in Christ They are working on what it means to get to know Him. He reveals Himself through the Bible and prayer. He uses other Christ-followers. “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” -- 2 Peter 3:18

III. Close to Christ They feel like they are walking with Him daily. They have a “side-by-side” relationship. “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs – heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ . . .” They are conscious of His presence.

III. Close to Christ They depend on Him daily for guidance. They want Jesus to influence their decisions. They make choices based upon Christ’s teachings. “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” -- Psalms 25:4-5

IV. Christ-centered Their relationship with Jesus is the most important relationship in their life. Nothing is more important that following the Lord. Nothing comes between them and their relationship with Christ. “I am crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me . . .” -- Galatians 2:20

IV. Christ-centered Their relationship with Christ guides everything that they do. Jesus really becomes Lord and Master. They are “sold-out” to Christ. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

CONCLUSION Where are YOU? Where do you want to be? What is the next step?