To Be Or Not To Be Sermon of Rev. Revita De Chalus on June 28,2003

To be or not to be? Is that a question? Am I just quoting Shakespeare? No, I have something else in mind. Do you want to be God? Or do you want to be like God? There was a movie called Bruce Almighty where the main character had a chance to be God. I do want to remind you that one who wanted to be God met with a very unpleasant result: Satan. Do you want to be Christ? Or do you want to be like Christ?

As Christians, we are called to be like Christ. Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. How do we learn how to be like Christ? By reading the Bible, listening to others inform us about the bible, and by having a relationship with Jesus Christ.

When are we trying to be Christ or God? When we take control by manipulating others. When we take credit, brag, and focus more on ourselves as being important. What happens when we do this? We upset God and forego God’s will. James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the Humble.

How we do stop when we notice we are trying to be God? Humble ourselves and remember our human sinful nature. Matthew 23:12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

We need to admit our mistakes and ask for forgiveness for our mistakes. Then we need to ask God to help us in all that we do. We need to acknowledge God and be grateful for God’s presence in our lives.

Is this new to you? Do your realize that you have not been giving God the glory through His son Jesus? Now is a good time to start. Is it to be or not to be? Let’s try to be like Christ and not be Christ. We don’t’ need to add unnecessary burdens to our lives. Being like Christ is sufficient. Do you know who Christ is so that you may be like Him? He is the Son of God, our Savior, who died on the cross for our wrongs. Would you like to have a relationship with Him and learn how to be more like Him? You can ask Christ into your life, to lead you and guide you through all things. Let Him know that you believe He died on a cross for your sins. Let Him know that you are sorry for all you have done wrong. He’s waiting for you. Just extend your hand.

If you have just done so, let us know. We want to provide resources to help you continue in your new/renewed relationship to Christ.