Hidden With Christ In God

Colossians 3:3

I. Introduction

A. A Canadian woman recently lost her disability payments because of her Facebook page.

B. It is not uncommon for people to try to project two images of themselves

C. Those in Christ must be different.

1. Are we trying to maintain two images?

2. What influence for good or evil might we be exerting?

II. Christians must not project two images!

A. Every sincere Christian wants to be recognized as godly by fellow Christians

1. We want the benefits that come from harmony, partnership in God’s family.

2. We want approval.

3. We don’t want to be admonished

B. But some seek to project another image as well

1. One that is admired by the world

2. One that gains the acceptance of worldly friends

3. We can put this face on any number of ways – language, practice, encouragement

4. We can do this any number of places

III. We are to have one nature.

A. We have only one identity – Christ’s

1. “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3)

2. We who have been raised with Christ have died to sin (Romans 6:1-4)

3. We who have put on Christ must not take Him off! (Gal. 3:27; 2 Cor. 4:10)

B. We are to have one kind of fruit (Luke 6:43-46)

1. All that we are to do is to be good in the eyes of God, something He desires

2. We can’t put out two kinds of fruit

C. We must not desire worldly approval

1. Woe to you when all men speak well of you (Luke 6:26)

2. We must not talk like the world (Col. 3:8; Eph. 5:4)

3. We must not seek attachment with worldly people (2 Cor. 6:14-16; Psalm 1:1 Prov. 24:1)

IV. We must understand the influence we are called to have.

A. If we dabble in worldliness, we damage ourselves and others as well

1. The images of ourselves we present to others can influence others

2. Can be especially hurtful if it sways others to embrace sin

B. The Corinthian church hurt, and were hurt by their acceptance of sin (1 Cor. 5:1-11)

1. A man practicing a terrible sin was being encouraged by the acceptance of the church

2. Their acceptance not only encouraged him to continue, but desensitized them to sin

3. When they resolved to have one nature, they helped their erring brother (2 Cor. 2:6, ff)

C. When we talk and act with the one nature Christ has, we stand out – and glorify God.
(Eph 4:29; Php. 2:14-15)

V. Conclusion

A. When our lives are hidden with Christ, we gain so much more. (2 Cor. 6:16-18)

B. What kind of images are you projecting?

1. What does your life look like away from the company of Christians?

2. How are you displaying Christ in your life?

C. Is your life hidden with Christ in God?

December 6, 2009