In our previous article we wrote about what it means to to seek after the “old paths.” We stressed the importance of standing firm in the Lord Jesus Christ and upon His holy Word. In this and perhaps some more articles, I want to elaborate on how one who seeks the “old paths” will implement them in his or her life and service to the Lord of Glory. All of us will want these in our lives and will want to tell others also. Paul, writing in 2 Tim. 2:2, wrote the following, “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

A Christian who is seeking and following the “Old Paths” will stress the Lordship of the Jesus in their lives. We will give Jesus the preeminence that He has and so richly deserves. It is through the redemptive work of the Lord Jesus that we have forgiveness of sins. (Col. 1:12-14) Paul emphasized the preeminence of Christ in Col. 1:15-20. We must do the same in our lives and in our contacts with others.

The Lord Jesus is the only way to salvation. He said this in John 14:6, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father but through Me” and Peter reiterates this precious truth in Acts 4:12, “There is no other Name under heaven by which we may be saved.”

One who follows the “Old Paths” will be one who is a faithful member of the Lord’s Church. He will be one who enjoys the privileges of being “in Christ” and also one who is willing to accept the responsibilities of being a member of the Church. He will be one who believes an accepts the fact that the Lord Jesus founded but one church. Jesus, Himself, said “I will build My church….” (Matt. 16:13-18).

Christians are willing bond-servants for Jesus. He is the head of the Church mentioned in the Bible. He has a right to expect that we are willing subjects. If we are, then we will show it by obeying Him in all things. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love Me, Keep my commandments.” The Christian who is seeking the “old paths” and putting that belief into practice by following the “old paths” will be one who obeys Him.

Christianity is a life of action. It is a life of dedication. It is a life of steadfastness By following “tried and true” principles, we will “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18) There is room in the Kingdom for every Christian. We all have at least one talent for the Lord. He has promised to equip us for service and if we are willing to learn and grow, He will equip us.

The one who wants to be “An Approved Servant of the Lord” will be the one who desires to be closer to Him and learn more of Him in able that we might grow nearer to Him and help others do the same. As the hymn writer wrote, “More about Jesus would I Know…”

 

From www.larryslines.com

Larry Miles is an editor of the Word & Work Webzine and attends

                                                                                     Cherry St. Church of Christ in New Albany, IN.