Christ Within, Impact Without

John arrived at the music concert very late. The 20,000 seat Stadium was packed to capacity by the free event and when John arrived there wasn’t any room left for him to get in. He pleaded with the security guards, letting them know that he was a die-hard fan and was waiting his whole life to see this music performer. They denied him access and after John heard the music playing and the vibration moving through his body, his attitude changed. It was enough to be close to his dream, it was enough to stand at the door and only feel the music.

In life, there are moments when we feel like John, standing outside a music concert, longing to be in the midst of the action, but circumstances keep us at a distance. We yearn to experience the joy and energy of being part of something bigger than ourselves. In the same way, the sons of Korah expressed their desire to be close to God in Psalm 84:10. They understood the significance of being in God’s presence, even if it meant standing at the threshold of His house. But as Christ-followers, we have something even greater – God’s presence living inside us through Jesus Christ.

Living Close to God

For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside.
I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God
Than dwell in the tents of wickedness. Psalm 84:10 NASB1995

Psalm 84:10 beautifully captures the heart of worship, as the sons of Korah declare their preference to be near God rather than anywhere else. Their perspective is profound: just being near the door behind which God resides is more than enough for them. The temple in Jerusalem served as the dwelling place of God, and while some priests had the privilege of serving in His immediate presence, the Korahites found joy in singing songs to the Lord and being near His dwelling place.

Closer Than Ever Through Jesus Christ

As believers in Christ, we have a tremendous advantage. Through Jesus, we can be closer to God than the sons of Korah could ever imagine. God’s Spirit dwells within us, breaking down the barriers that once separated humanity from God. We no longer have to be content with standing outside the door; instead, we can enjoy an intimate relationship with our Creator.

Embracing the Reality of Christ Within

The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped in this mountain, and you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. John 4:19-21

Despite this incredible truth, many Christians struggle to grasp the reality of Christ’s presence within them. The misconception that God is confined to a physical place like a church building has been perpetuated for generations. Even churches that emphasize God’s omnipresence often find themselves limited by traditional structures, multiple service times, and the idea that experiencing God requires a specific location.

Living a Life That Reflects Christ

[Jesus said,] “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. John 4:23 NASB1995

The essence of Christianity lies not in merely having Christ within us, but in allowing Him to live through us. Jesus desires to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. He doesn’t want us to compartmentalize our lives and reserve Him for special occasions or church gatherings. Instead, He desires to be an integral part of our everyday routines, like grocery shopping or driving to work.

Transforming the World through Christ’s Presence

Psalm 84 speaks of a longing and desire for God’s presence, and it resonates with our hearts as well. However, Jesus calls us to a deeper understanding – that He dwells within our physical bodies. We have everything we need to live a life that reflects His love, mercy, and grace. When we allow Jesus to live through us, our lives become a testament to His transformative power.

Here are 4 ways to allow Christ to live through you:

1. Daily Surrender to Christ. Allow Christ to lead your life each day, surrendering your thoughts and actions to Him.

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20 NASB1995

2. Love Your Neighbor. Let Christ’s love flow through you as you interact with others, showing compassion, kindness, and understanding.

“And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 22:37-39 NASB1995

3. Serve with Humility. Serve others with humility, just as Christ humbled Himself to serve humanity.

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4 NASB1995

4. Be a Light in Darkness. Allow Christ’s light to shine through you, illuminating the darkness around you.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 NASB1995

Living a life with Christ goes beyond being close to God; it involves allowing Him to live through us in every aspect of life. We have the privilege of having God’s presence within us through Jesus Christ. As we embrace this reality and let Christ shine through our lives, we become vessels of His love, impacting the world for the better. By applying these principles and living a life that reflects Christ’s presence, we become true ambassadors of His love, peace, and grace, making a lasting impact on the world.