THE PURPOSE OF A BELIEVER IN CHRIST By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 16:24
Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.'
________________________________________
Introduction
Many believers struggle with understanding their true purpose in Christ. The misconception that salvation is only about personal benefits leads many to live self-centered Christian lives. However, Jesus did not give His life so that we might simply enjoy an improved lifestyle, but so that we might be useful and active in His Kingdom. The true call of a believer is to abandon self-interest and fully submit to the will and purpose of God. This teaching explores the divine purpose of every believer and the necessity of obedience to the Holy Spirit’s leading in fulfilling God’s will.
________________________________________
THE CALL TO SELF-DENIAL AND KINGDOM PURPOSE
Luke 9:23 – Then He said to them all, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.'
Jesus made it clear that true discipleship requires self-denial. The believer is called to forsake personal ambitions and align fully with the will of the Father. It is not about pursuing a comfortable life but about yielding entirely to the divine purpose. Many today seek only the benefits of salvation without embracing the responsibilities that come with it. However, God's intention is that His children live lives of service, love, and purpose, fulfilling His divine plan on earth.
________________________________________
OBEDIENCE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING
John 14:26 – But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
A believer’s journey is guided by the Holy Spirit, who instructs, convicts, and leads according to the will of the Father. Many resist the Holy Spirit’s leading because they prefer comfort and familiarity. However, obedience to the Holy Spirit is essential for spiritual growth and effectiveness in God’s Kingdom. The Holy Spirit prompts believers to step out of their comfort zones and engage in acts of service, evangelism, and love towards others.
________________________________________
THE DANGER OF SPIRITUAL ISOLATION
Hebrews 10:25 – Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
Many believers limit their spiritual growth by isolating themselves within specific denominational or cultural boundaries. Jesus called for unity among believers, yet many reject fellowship with those outside their “brand” or circle. Such limitations hinder God’s work and prevent believers from experiencing the full richness of the Body of Christ. The true church is not a building or a denomination but a spiritual family united under Christ.
________________________________________
THE UNIVERSAL FAMILY OF BELIEVERS
Galatians 3:28 – There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Believers must recognize that their true citizenship is in Heaven. The divisions created by nationality, culture, and denominational preferences should not dictate Christian fellowship. True faith transcends earthly boundaries, and God’s love unites His children into one spiritual family. Rejecting fellow believers because of differences in background or doctrine is contrary to God’s will and limits the work of the Holy Spirit.
________________________________________
THE TRUE MINISTRY OF EVERY BELIEVER
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 – There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.
Not all believers are called to be preachers or teachers, but every believer has a divine purpose. Many feel inadequate because they lack formal theological training, yet God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Ministry is not limited to a pulpit; it is lived out in daily obedience to God’s leading. A believer’s calling may be to demonstrate God’s love, share encouragement, or serve in practical ways. Every act of obedience contributes to the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom on earth.
________________________________________
SUMMARY
A believer’s life is not about personal gain but about fulfilling God’s purpose. Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. This requires obedience to the Holy Spirit, willingness to serve, and a heart open to unity among believers. Isolation and division hinder spiritual growth, but embracing God’s family in love and service brings fulfillment in Christ.
________________________________________
CONCLUSION
God has a unique plan for every believer. Following Christ is not about seeking comfort but about being an active participant in His divine mission. The Holy Spirit is given to guide believers into their calling, and true fulfillment comes from yielding to His direction. Every believer has something to contribute, and no one is without purpose in God’s Kingdom.
________________________________________
CALL TO ACTION
Do not remain stagnant in your faith. Seek God’s will, obey His leading, and engage in the work He has set before you. Whether through acts of service, evangelism, or encouragement, commit to being a vessel for God’s love and purpose. Step out in faith, break free from limitations, and embrace the full calling of Christ in your life.
________________________________________
FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
You are chosen, loved, and called for a purpose. Do not allow fear or doubt to hold you back. Trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance and walk boldly in obedience. As you do, you will experience the fullness of God’s plan and see His glory manifest in your life.
________________________________________
SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet given your life to Christ, you can do so now by praying this prayer:
Lord Jesus, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again for my salvation. I repent of my sins and surrender my life to You. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior, and lead me in Your purpose. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
