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)[1]
and for Christianity to be reputable[2]
(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.[3] 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).
