When Christ is First Self is Diminished

Wouldn't it be wonderful to be in a group of born-again believers who did not offer any opinions of their own when studying the Bible together?

There would be no quoting of any men but only scripture.

There would be no mention of books written by authors with twisted doctrine full of additions to the word of God.

All the people at the Bible study would be there to learn not to pretend to be superior.

Every person in attendance would be able to be questioned, challenged and even corrected without anyone becoming agitated or angry at the challenge.

Everyone at the study would prayerfully and humbly express their Biblical view with kindness and love.

No one would bring up past forgiven sins of others to elevate themselves.

Each person there would love one another better than they love themselves.

No one would use manipulation or intimidation to impress others to be "the winner" of anything.

Philippians 2:3 "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem the other better than himself."

1 John 3:14 " 14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. The one who does not love remains in death."

John 13:34 "34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another."

There would be no gossip in this group because gossip is for one purpose only and that is to elevate self by pushing others down. This would not exist in the gathering.

In this gathering, everyone would be allowed to express their concerns without being judged or punished for them.

We know this sort of gathering does not exist in most places for most of us, but we have hope in knowing that in the Millennium there will be many people who would be involved in this sort of gathering, one that glorifies God without regard to self.

There is a saying I have heard over the years, I do not know the author but the sentiment is very good. I have this sentiment on my bulletin board at home as a reminder. The saying goes like this: "One of the elements of holiness is the absence of self-awareness."

The more we focus on Christ the less we will be consumed with ourselves. We will not be working to appear special to others, we will be working to seek the Face of God to glorify Him by speaking His truth and obeying His commands.

We can be sure these lovely attitudes will be a blessing at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb when Christ will be everything to us.

John 3:30-35

"30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

31 “He who comes from above is above all; the one who is only from the earth is of the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 What He has seen and heard, of this He testifies; and no one accepts His testimony.

33 The one who has accepted His testimony has certified that God is true.

34 For He whom God sent speaks the words of God; for He does not give the Spirit sparingly.

35 The Father loves the Son and has entrusted all things to His hand."

Hallelujah!!!! When Christ is first self diminishes!!!