Developing My Life Purpose: A Christian Perspective - Module 1 | Lesson 3

 

PART 1

Developing My Life Purpose: A Christian Perspective 

Introduction

In a world brimming with varied philosophies and existential inquiries, the question of purpose often emerges as central to human experience. For the Christian, the search for purpose is intrinsically linked to their relationship with Christ. The Scriptures offer profound insights into understanding and fulfilling our divine purpose. This article explores how one can develop their life purpose based on Christian living, supported by full Biblical references.

1. The Foundation of Purpose: Christ as Lord

The starting point for understanding our life purpose is recognizing Christ as Lord. Without acknowledging Jesus as the central figure in our lives, our sense of purpose remains incomplete. The Bible underscores this truth in several passages:

• Matthew 6:33 (KJV): "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above all else.

• Colossians 1:16-17 (KJV): "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist." These verses affirm that Christ is the source and sustainer of all creation, including our own lives.

2. Purpose in Obedience to God’s Will

Understanding and fulfilling our purpose involves aligning our lives with God’s will. The Bible offers guidance on how to live in accordance with God’s plans:

• Romans 12:1-2 (KJV): "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." This passage teaches us to offer ourselves fully to God and seek transformation through His will.

• Ephesians 2:10 (KJV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." This verse highlights that our purpose includes doing the good works God has prepared for us.

3. Purpose Through Service and Love

A significant aspect of our purpose is serving others and showing love. Jesus taught that our actions should reflect His love and compassion:

• Matthew 20:28 (KJV): "Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." Jesus’ example of servanthood sets a precedent for us to follow.

• 1 John 4:19 (KJV): "We love him, because he first loved us." Our love for others should be an outpouring of the love we receive from God.

4. Purpose Through Evangelism and Discipleship

The Great Commission is central to the Christian purpose. Jesus commands His followers to spread the Gospel and make disciples:

• Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV): "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." This passage underscores the importance of evangelism and teaching others about Christ.

• Acts 1:8 (KJV): "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." The empowerment of the Holy Spirit enables us to be effective witnesses of Christ.

5. Purpose in Perseverance and Faith

Our purpose involves persevering through challenges and maintaining faith. The Bible assures us that our trials have a divine purpose:

• James 1:2-4 (KJV): "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." Trials are opportunities for growth and maturation in our purpose.

• Romans 8:28 (KJV): "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." This verse reassures us that God orchestrates our lives for His ultimate good, even amidst difficulties.

Developing our life purpose from a Christian perspective involves recognizing Christ as Lord, aligning with God’s will, serving others, participating in evangelism, and persevering in faith. By grounding our purpose in the teachings of Scripture and the example of Jesus, we find a fulfilling and eternal purpose that transcends worldly pursuits. Embracing this purpose transforms our lives and enables us to make a meaningful impact in the world.

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PART 2

Starting my New Life

Starting the journey to develop your life purpose involves several key steps. Each step integrates Biblical principles and practical actions to help align your life with God's will. Here’s a guide to help you begin:

1. Seek a Relationship with Christ

Prayer and Meditation:

• James 1:5 (KJV): "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
  • Start by seeking God’s guidance through prayer. Ask Him for wisdom and clarity regarding your purpose.
  • Spend time in quiet meditation, listening for God’s voice and understanding His direction for your life.

Reading Scripture:

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV): "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
  • Regularly read the Bible to understand God’s promises, commands, and plans for your life.

2. Understand Your Identity in Christ

Know Your Worth:

• 1 Peter 2:9 (KJV): "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
  • Recognize that you are chosen and valued by God. This understanding forms the foundation of your purpose.

Discover Your Spiritual Gifts:

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (KJV): "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."
  • Identify and cultivate your spiritual gifts through prayer, self-reflection, and by seeking feedback from others.

3. Align Your Life with God's Will

Commit to God’s Purpose:

• Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
  • Trust God with your life decisions and seek His guidance in all areas.

Set Goals Based on Biblical Principles:

• Philippians 4:13 (KJV): "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
  • Set goals that align with Biblical teachings and ask for God’s strength to achieve them.

4. Serve Others and Spread the Gospel

Engage in Service:

• Galatians 5:13 (KJV): "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another."
  • Look for opportunities to serve others in your community, church, and beyond.

Participate in Evangelism:

• Mark 16:15 (KJV): "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."
  • Share your faith and participate in outreach activities to spread the message of Christ.

5. Persevere and Grow

Embrace Challenges:

• Romans 5:3-4 (KJV): "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope."
  • Understand that challenges are part of your growth process. They build character and deepen your reliance on God.

Pursue Continuous Learning:

• 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV): "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen."
  • Continue to grow in your faith and knowledge of Christ through Bible study, worship, and fellowship.

Starting your journey to develop your life purpose based on Christian living involves seeking a relationship with Christ, understanding your identity in Him, aligning your life with His will, serving others, and embracing growth. By integrating these steps into your daily life, you can discover and fulfill the purpose God has for you, leading to a life of fulfillment and eternal significance.

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PART 3

Developing Our Life Purpose in Christ

Group Discussion

1. Seek a Relationship with Christ

Scripture References:

• James 1:5 (KJV): "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV): "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

Questions:

1. How can we practically ask God for wisdom in our daily lives? Reflect on James 1:5 and discuss personal experiences where you sought God’s wisdom. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. In what ways can reading and studying Scripture contribute to understanding our life purpose? Discuss how 2 Timothy 3:16-17 informs your approach to Bible study. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. Understand Your Identity in Christ

Scripture References:

• 1 Peter 2:9 (KJV): "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
• 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (KJV): "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

Questions:

1. How does knowing that you are part of a “chosen generation” and a “royal priesthood” impact your sense of self-worth and purpose? Reflect on 1 Peter 2:9. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. What are your spiritual gifts, and how can you use them to fulfill your purpose? Discuss the importance of recognizing and using your gifts as described in 1 Corinthians 12:4-7. _________________________________________________________________________

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3. Align Your Life with God's Will

Scripture References:

• Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
• Philippians 4:13 (KJV): "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Questions:

1. How can you practically trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all areas of your life? Share examples of how Proverbs 3:5-6 has been applied in your life. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. Reflect on a time when you felt empowered to achieve something because of Christ’s strength. How does Philippians 4:13 inspire your daily endeavors? _________________________________________________________________________

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4. Serve Others and Spread the Gospel

Scripture References:

• Galatians 5:13 (KJV): "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another."
• Mark 16:15 (KJV): "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

Questions:

1. How can you use your freedom in Christ to serve others in love? Discuss ways to apply Galatians 5:13 in your community. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. What are some practical ways to share the Gospel in your everyday life? Reflect on Mark 16:15 and share personal experiences or strategies for evangelism. _________________________________________________________________________

   _________________________________________________________________________

   _________________________________________________________________________

   _________________________________________________________________________

5. Persevere and Grow

Scripture References:

• Romans 5:3-4 (KJV): "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope."
• 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV): "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen."

Questions:

1. How can you maintain a positive outlook and grow through challenges and tribulations? Reflect on how Romans 5:3-4 has applied to your life’s difficulties. _________________________________________________________________________

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2. What steps can you take to continue growing in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ? Discuss practical ways to incorporate the teachings of 2 Peter 3:18 into your daily spiritual practices. _________________________________________________________________________

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This Bible study aims to guide participants in understanding and applying the principles of developing life purpose according to Christian teachings. Each section encourages personal reflection and practical application, grounded in Scriptural truths.

A Study Developed by Rev Rolando E. Santiago MMin, DD, ThD, DPM