Conduct: What is
the greatest proof of saving faith? It is a life that has changed. Our conduct
changes because of the system overhaul that occurred in our inner selves (John
3:3; Rom. 6:4; 2 Cor. 5:17). Our conduct will build a reputation either for or
against Christ (cf. v.27b). Christians conduct themselves to make Christ known
(for Christ's sake v.29)
and for Christianity to be reputable
(for the faith v.27). No one would believe if the believers themselves gave up
believing. The proving
ground for belief is through suffering and opposition (cf. John 16:33;
Acts. 14:22; 1 Peter 1:7; 2 Tim. 1:8). We have help - the church (Rom. 12:10-11;
15:1-2; 1 Cor. 12:25-26).
Humility: We ought to regard one
another as more important than ourselves (2:3). There is no room for condescension
in the church (contra. Mt. 20:24-28; Mk. 14:3-6). Humility leads to unity and
unity affirms the transformative power of Christ. However,
those who are motivated by results or self-aggrandizing may appear humble for a
time. But when others don't meet their standard, they separate from them (Prov.
18:1). We on the other hand, must be intentional to
benefit the church, specifically regarding their sanctification (cf. 2:17; 2
Cor. 12:15). This proactive humility properly aligns with God's goodness to us
(cf. 2:1). Through it, we imitate Christ and share the same affections He has
for the church (cf. 1:8).
