26/10/2025
Pastor A. B. C. Komolafe
Topic: The Importance of Character in the Life of a Christian
Text: Titus 2:4-9
Christianity isn't merely a religion, but a way of life – living Christ's life. This distinction sets it apart from other religions, focusing on Christ's lifestyle. Christians are those who've abandoned their old ways to follow Christ, embracing His life.
In Acts 11:27, we see how the believers in Antioch were labeled Christians due to their lifestyle. Christ's life embodies peace, and as Christians, we're called to reflect this.
Character is a distinctive attribute that sets individuals apart. Even identical twins have unique characters, highlighting its significance in defining who we are. Character plays a vital role in our lives, shaping our identity and influencing our interactions with others.
Titus outlines the characteristics we should embody as Christians, regardless of gender or status. Our character defines us as Christians, and the life of Christ should be our primary attribute. This character encompasses our nature and habits. Nature refers to our inborn traits, while habits are developed over time through influences and experiences.
A good person can become bad by adopting negative habits from their peers, just as we can learn good habits from fellow believers. Our associations shape us, but as Christians, we're called to a new character, nature, and habits (2 Corinthians 5:17). We've become new beings with changed natures, attitudes, and habits.
People expect much from us as Christians, often judging Christ by our actions. Many professing Christians lack Christ's character, focusing on gifts or charisma rather than godliness. God values our character, reflecting His nature, over external attributes.
God asks: Who's your master? Who are you following? Many attend church without truly being Christians.
Let's examine ourselves:
- Morally, who are you? Let's assess ourselves honestly.
- Domestically, who are you? Some shine outwardly, but who are they at home?
- In relationships, who are you? Have you damaged connections that could have been beneficial?
- Financially, who are you? Are you greedy with money?
- Spiritually, who are you? Do we perceive life's challenges with spiritual insight?
A faulty character leads others to question our responsibility. Our character is our first message; if flawed, it undermines our words and actions, leading to:
1. Ineffective communication
2. Diminished influence
3. Condemnation
We're called to Christ to transform our characters, living new lives.
We are reminded that our bad character can damage our life and reputation, not Christ's name. If transformed, people will follow us to Christ. God doesn't favor position or status; He's displeased with those lacking Christ's life.
The question remains: Who are you, who am I, and who are we?
