Peter several times mentions the problem of forgetting and the need for reminders (2 Pet. 1:9,12-15; 2:20-21; 3:1,5,8). Because we are prone to forget, we need reminders. There is too little “review” in the typical church. In the academic world, students review so they can pass a test. In many occupations, professional journals provide reviews and help one stay current with new developments. But down at the church house, whether in our Bible classes or sermons, we seldom review.
This article is a review–a follow-up to a recent sermon on accountability. For what are we accountable to God? Preachers continually remind their hearers that we are accountable before God. Unfortunately, many sermons begin and end with a call to be accountable before God by obeying the gospel in baptism. Certainly baptism is a necessary part of our initial obedience and imitation of Christ (thus we become disciples, followers of Christ). But baptism is the beginning, not the end. Baptism is not a cure-all. After baptism, the question remains. For what does God hold us accountable? What is essential?
#1–PURPOSE. God holds me accountable for getting the FOCUS of life right. What is at the center of my life? What is my purpose on earth? If one misunderstands the purpose of life, all else will be messed up.
#2–PEOPLE. God holds me accountable for RELATIONSHIPS. Three are paramount.
- God holds me accountable for a heart of worship. I was made for intimacy with God. Do I live intimately with God? Do I seek his presence? Does my life honor, adore, magnify and glorify him.
- God holds me accountable to live out faithfully my family roles.
- God expects from me healthy friendships. God’s plan for his creation includes my godly friends, shared intimacy, friendships that are more than fellowship.
#3–POWER. God makes his power available to me, and thus holds me accountable for how I live my LIFE.
- God holds me accountable for serving. Jesus by example teaches me to pick up the towel and basin. He calls me to advance the Cause where it does not exist. He calls me to live out the reality of God in this world wherever I go.
- God holds me accountable for my work. God created me and I am responsible for learning how to work hard and enjoy work. This is not natural; this is an acquired aspect of my Christian accountability.
- God calls me to rest. We do not know and appreciate the place of sabbathing (resting). In our culture, we are driven. We never stop; we never rest. We do not work well because we do not rest well.
#4–PASSION. By the gifts God gives me, he calls me to be passionate about life, and holds me responsible as a STEWARD.
- I am a steward of my physical body.
- I am a steward of God’s stuff–possessions and opportunities.
- I am a steward of my mind, with the great God-given capacity for creativity.
I suggest that virtually all of life is encompassed in these four categories–10 items.
- Purpose. Getting the right Focus.
- People. Working on Relationships–to God, family, friends
- Power. Using God’s power for Life–service, work, rest
- Passion. Using God’s gifts in good Stewardship–body, possessions, mind