LEARNING CHRIST

LEARNING CHRIST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:17-24

Key Verse: “But ye have not so learned Christ.” — Ephesians 4:20 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Matthew 11:28-29; John 14:6; John 15:4-5; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 2:6-7; 1 Peter 2:21; 1 John 2:6.

Description: This sermon teaches that learning Christ goes beyond acquiring biblical information; it involves knowing Him personally, following His example and allowing His character to transform our daily lives.

INTRODUCTION

Christianity is more than belonging to a church, attending services or knowing religious language. At its heart, Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. A person may know many facts about the Bible without truly knowing Christ or allowing His teachings to govern their life. God desires believers who do not merely know about Jesus but continually learn from Him.

In Ephesians 4:20, Paul makes a powerful contrast between the former life of the Gentiles and the new life believers have received in Christ. After describing the vanity of the old mind, the darkened understanding and the hardness of heart, he declares, “But ye have not so learned Christ.” Learning Christ means that the believer's life must be different because of knowing Him. His truth, character and teachings must influence how we think, speak, behave and relate to others.

The Christian journey is a lifelong school in which Jesus is both our Lord and our Teacher. We learn His humility, obedience, love, holiness and faithfulness through Scripture, the Holy Spirit and daily fellowship with Him. The evidence that we are learning Christ is not merely how much we know, but how faithfully we reflect His character. As we grow in Him, our lives should increasingly demonstrate that we belong to Jesus.

1. LEARNING CHRIST BEGINS WITH KNOWING HIM PERSONALLY

There is a difference between knowing information about a person and knowing that person personally. Similarly, learning Christ begins with a genuine relationship with Him. We must move beyond religious familiarity into a living relationship marked by faith, fellowship and obedience.

Jesus does not call us merely to study His life from a distance. He invites us to come to Him, trust Him and follow Him. Our spiritual growth becomes meaningful when our knowledge of Christ changes our relationship with God and the way we live.

a. We must come to Christ by faith (John 6:37)

“All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” — John 6:37 (KJV)

Learning Christ begins when we respond to His invitation. We come to Him in repentance and faith, acknowledging our need for His forgiveness and grace. We cannot become true disciples merely by admiring Jesus; we must personally receive Him as Lord and Saviour.

No matter your past, Christ invites you to come to Him. He is ready to receive those who genuinely seek Him. The Christian life begins with this relationship and continues through daily dependence on His grace.

b. We must know Christ beyond religious activities (Philippians 3:10)

“That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV)

Paul was an experienced servant of God, yet his desire was to know Christ more deeply. He understood that spiritual maturity is not a destination reached through religious activity alone. There is always more to learn about the Lord's character, power and purposes.

Church attendance, ministry responsibilities and biblical knowledge are valuable, but they must lead us into deeper fellowship with Jesus. Make knowing Him your priority, not merely receiving things from Him.

c. We must remain in fellowship with Christ (John 15:4)

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” — John 15:4 (KJV)

A branch cannot produce fruit independently of the vine. In the same way, believers cannot live fruitful Christian lives apart from Christ's sustaining presence. Learning Christ requires daily fellowship, prayer, meditation on Scripture and dependence on the Holy Spirit.

Do not allow your relationship with Jesus to become occasional. Maintain fellowship with Him in the ordinary activities of life. As you abide in Him, your character and conduct will increasingly reflect His life.

d. We must follow Christ as His disciples (Luke 9:23)

Jesus taught that anyone who would follow Him must deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow Him. Discipleship requires surrender. We cannot insist on our own way in every matter and still claim to be fully following Christ.

Following Jesus may require us to abandon sinful habits, forgive difficult people, make sacrifices or stand for truth when it is unpopular. True learning becomes visible when we obey the One we profess to know.

Biblical Example: The Twelve Disciples (Mark 3:13-15)

Jesus called His disciples to be with Him and then sent them out to minister. Their training began with personal fellowship before their public assignment. This teaches us that effective Christian service grows out of a genuine relationship with Christ. We must first learn from Him before we can faithfully represent Him.

2. LEARNING CHRIST MEANS LEARNING HIS TEACHINGS

A disciple must pay attention to the teachings of the Master. We cannot claim to be learning Christ while ignoring what He taught. His words reveal God's will, correct our wrong thinking and establish the standards by which we should live.

The believer must therefore study the Scriptures carefully and put Christ's teachings into practice. Biblical knowledge is not intended merely to fill our minds; it is meant to shape our decisions, relationships and conduct.

a. We must receive the Word of Christ (John 8:31-32)

Jesus taught that those who continue in His word are truly His disciples and will know the truth. Continuing in His Word means more than hearing it once. It involves studying, believing, remembering and obeying what He has said.

Do not allow God's Word to become something you hear only on Sundays. Read it regularly and apply it to your daily circumstances. The more deeply the truth of Christ takes root in your heart, the more firmly you will stand against deception.

b. We must obey what Christ commands (John 14:15)

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — John 14:15 (KJV)

Obedience is a practical expression of love for Jesus. We cannot separate genuine devotion from a willingness to follow His instructions. A person may sing about loving Christ, yet that love must also be demonstrated through obedience.

When Christ teaches us to forgive, we must forgive. When He commands purity, we must reject immorality. When He calls us to honesty, we must abandon deceit. Learning Christ means allowing His authority to govern every area of life.

c. We must build our lives on His words (Matthew 7:24-25)

Jesus compared the person who hears and obeys His words to a wise man who built his house upon a rock. When the storm came, the house stood because it had a firm foundation.

Storms of life will come to every believer. We may face disappointment, temptation, opposition and uncertainty. The person who has built life on Christ's teachings is better prepared to remain faithful through these challenges.

Do not build your convictions on emotions, popular opinion or the changing standards of society. Build them on the unchanging truth of God's Word.

d. We must allow the Word to correct us (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Scripture is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness. God's Word teaches us what is right and exposes what needs to change.

A teachable disciple does not read the Bible merely to find encouragement. He or she also allows Scripture to challenge wrong attitudes and correct sinful conduct. Welcome the Word even when it confronts your preferences, and respond with humility.

Biblical Example: Mary of Bethany (Luke 10:38-42)

Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to His teaching, while Martha was distracted by many preparations. Jesus commended Mary's choice to attend to His words. Her example reminds us that learning Christ requires us to make time to listen to Him and give His Word the attention it deserves.

3. LEARNING CHRIST MEANS IMITATING HIS CHARACTER

Knowledge of Christ should produce Christlike character. The more we learn from Jesus, the more our attitudes and behaviour should reflect His example. We must not be satisfied with knowing what Jesus did; we must seek to understand His character and follow His pattern.

Christlikeness is not produced by human effort alone. The Holy Spirit works in us as we surrender to God, meditate on Scripture and practise obedience. Our responsibility is to cooperate with His work and consistently choose the way of Christ.

a. Learn the humility of Christ (Philippians 2:5-8)

Paul presents Jesus as the supreme example of humility. Though He existed in the form of God, He humbled Himself and took the form of a servant, becoming obedient unto death.

Learning Christ means rejecting pride, selfish ambition and the desire to exalt ourselves above others. Humility does not mean denying the gifts God has given us; it means using those gifts to serve Him and bless people.

In the home, church and workplace, choose service over self-importance. Be willing to listen, admit mistakes and honour others. A humble spirit reflects the character of Jesus.

b. Learn the love of Christ (John 13:34-35)

Jesus commanded His disciples to love one another as He had loved them. He made love a distinguishing mark of His followers.

Christlike love is more than words or feelings. It is demonstrated through patience, kindness, forgiveness, sacrifice and concern for others. It does not approve of sin, but it seeks the good of people in accordance with God's truth.

Let your love be visible in how you treat family members, fellow believers and even those who oppose you. People should see something of Christ in your attitude towards them.

c. Learn the obedience of Christ (John 6:38)

Jesus declared that He came down from heaven not to do His own will, but the will of the Father who sent Him. His earthly ministry was marked by submission to the Father's purpose.

Learning Christ requires us to surrender our preferences when they conflict with God's will. We must be willing to obey even when obedience is inconvenient or costly.

Ask yourself regularly, “Am I doing what pleases God, or am I simply doing what pleases me?” A life of obedience demonstrates that Christ is truly Lord.

d. Learn the compassion of Christ (Matthew 9:36)

When Jesus saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion because they were weary and scattered like sheep without a shepherd. He saw people not merely as crowds but as souls needing care and direction.

Learning Christ means developing concern for the suffering, the lost and the vulnerable. We must not become so occupied with our own ambitions that we overlook the needs of others.

Show compassion through practical service, encouragement, prayer and the proclamation of the gospel. Let the love of Jesus move you to care for people in meaningful ways.

Biblical Example: Stephen (Acts 7:54-60)

As Stephen faced violent opposition, he remained faithful to Christ. Even while being stoned, he prayed that the Lord would not lay the sin of his attackers to their charge. His response reflected the forgiving spirit of Jesus. Stephen's example shows that learning Christ can shape our conduct even under severe pressure.

4. LEARNING CHRIST REQUIRES A CHANGE OF MIND AND CONDUCT

Ephesians 4:17-24 contrasts the old manner of life with the new life in Christ. Learning Christ means that our former habits cannot remain unquestioned. Our thoughts, values and conduct must increasingly come under the influence of His truth.

The change may involve a process, but the direction must be clear. We are called to move away from sin and towards righteousness. We must allow God to renew our minds and give us the discipline to practise what we learn.

a. Put away the old manner of life (Ephesians 4:22)

Paul instructs believers to put off the old man, which is corrupted by deceitful desires. This includes the sinful patterns associated with our former life.

Do not protect habits that Christ is calling you to abandon. Whether it is dishonesty, bitterness, impurity, pride or destructive speech, bring it before God and take practical steps towards change. Learning Christ requires a willingness to leave behind what dishonours Him.

b. Renew your mind through God's truth (Romans 12:2)

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind...” — Romans 12:2a (KJV)

The world continually promotes values that may conflict with God's Word. If we accept these ideas without discernment, they can gradually influence our thinking and behaviour.

Renew your mind by studying Scripture and rejecting beliefs that contradict God's truth. Replace fear with faith, selfishness with service and resentment with forgiveness. As your thinking changes, your conduct will increasingly reflect the character of Christ.

c. Put on the new man (Ephesians 4:24)

Paul tells believers to put on the new man, created after God in righteousness and true holiness. This involves deliberately embracing the character and conduct that reflect our new life in Christ.

Do not measure spiritual progress only by the things you have stopped doing. Also consider the godly qualities you are developing. Are you becoming more honest, patient, loving, disciplined and faithful? The new life should be visible in your daily behaviour.

d. Walk as Christ walked (1 John 2:6)

“He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” — 1 John 2:6 (KJV)

Those who claim to abide in Christ should seek to follow His example. Our conduct should agree with our confession. We cannot consistently practise what Christ condemns and still claim that we are faithfully following Him.

Examine your daily life in the light of Jesus' example. Let His humility shape your leadership, His purity guide your choices and His love govern your relationships. The goal is not to imitate outward appearances but to reflect His character.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10)

When Jesus visited Zacchaeus, his encounter with the Lord produced practical change. He committed himself to giving to the poor and making restitution to those he had defrauded. His actions showed that receiving Christ had affected his values and conduct. Genuine learning must produce visible transformation.

5. LEARNING CHRIST IS A LIFELONG PROCESS

No believer reaches a point where there is nothing more to learn about Christ. Spiritual maturity is a continuing journey of knowing Him more deeply and becoming more like Him. We must remain humble, teachable and committed to growth throughout our lives.

The Christian who stops learning becomes vulnerable to stagnation. We must continually seek God, study His Word, receive correction and practise what we learn. Each season of life offers opportunities to grow in faith, wisdom and Christlike character.

a. Grow in the knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18)

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” — 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Peter commands believers to grow in grace and knowledge. Growth should be an ongoing feature of the Christian life. We should know Christ more deeply today than we did yesterday.

Set aside time for prayer, Bible study and reflection. Learn from sound Christian teaching and put what you learn into practice. Spiritual growth requires consistent attention rather than occasional enthusiasm.

b. Learn through the discipline of discipleship (Luke 14:27)

Jesus taught that those who follow Him must be willing to bear their cross. Discipleship involves commitment, sacrifice and perseverance.

There will be times when following Christ requires difficult choices. We may have to resist temptation, stand for truth or surrender personal comfort. Do not abandon your commitment when the path becomes demanding. Remain faithful to the Lord who called you.

c. Learn through trials and difficulties (James 1:2-4)

James teaches that the testing of faith produces patience and that patience helps believers mature. Trials are not pleasant, but God can use them to develop endurance and deepen our dependence on Him.

When you face difficulties, ask God to teach you what you need to learn. Avoid allowing hardship to produce bitterness or unbelief. Trust the Lord, remain obedient and allow the experience to strengthen your faith.

d. Continue pressing towards spiritual maturity (Philippians 3:12-14)

Paul acknowledged that he had not yet attained perfection, but he continued pressing towards the goal. Despite his accomplishments, he remained committed to spiritual progress.

Do not become satisfied with past achievements or discouraged by present weaknesses. Learn from your mistakes, receive God's grace and continue moving forward. The important thing is to remain faithful and keep growing in Christ.

Biblical Example: Peter (Luke 22:31-32; John 21:15-19; Acts 2:14-41)

Peter loved Jesus but experienced failure when he denied Him. After the resurrection, Jesus restored him and recommissioned him for service. Peter later stood boldly to preach the gospel at Pentecost. His life demonstrates that Christ can teach, restore and mature those who remain willing to follow Him.

6. LEARNING CHRIST MUST PRODUCE FRUITFUL SERVICE

The purpose of learning Christ is not personal spiritual achievement alone. As we become more like Jesus, we should serve others, strengthen the Church and represent Him faithfully in the world. Spiritual knowledge should produce practical usefulness in God's kingdom.

Every believer has a responsibility to reflect Christ wherever God has placed them. Our homes, workplaces, churches and communities should benefit from the character we are developing through our relationship with Jesus.

a. Serve others with the heart of Christ (Mark 10:43-45)

Jesus taught that greatness in His kingdom is demonstrated through service. He Himself came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.

Learning Christ means abandoning the idea that leadership exists merely for personal honour. Whether you lead a church, manage a business or care for a family, use your position to bless others.

Look for practical ways to help, encourage and support people. A servant's heart is a powerful testimony of Christ's character.

b. Use your gifts to build others up (1 Peter 4:10)

Peter teaches that each believer should use the gift received to serve others as a faithful steward of God's grace.

God has entrusted different abilities and opportunities to His people. Learning Christ means using these gifts responsibly rather than burying them in fear or employing them solely for personal recognition.

Identify the abilities God has given you and use them to strengthen the Church and meet genuine needs. Faithful service is one expression of spiritual maturity.

c. Be an example to other believers (1 Timothy 4:12)

Paul encouraged Timothy to be an example in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. A Christian's life can teach others even before a word is spoken.

Whether you are young or old, a leader or a member, your conduct matters. Let people see honesty in your dealings, purity in your choices and love in your relationships. Your example should make it easier for others to understand what following Christ means.

d. Let your life glorify God (Matthew 5:16)

Jesus taught His followers to let their light shine before others so that people might see their good works and glorify the Father in heaven.

Our lives should point people towards God rather than draw attention only to ourselves. When we practise kindness, integrity, faithfulness and compassion, we demonstrate the transforming power of Christ.

Let your words and actions agree. In every setting, seek to represent Jesus faithfully so that others may be encouraged to know Him.

Biblical Example: Barnabas (Acts 11:22-26)

Barnabas encouraged the believers in Antioch and helped strengthen the growing church. He was described as a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. His ministry shows that learning Christ should produce a life that encourages others, strengthens the Church and advances the gospel.

CONCLUSION

Learning Christ is the heart of Christian discipleship. It begins with a personal relationship with Jesus and continues through receiving His Word, imitating His character, renewing our minds and growing in spiritual maturity. We must not be satisfied with religious knowledge that leaves our conduct unchanged. Christ calls us to follow Him in humility, love, obedience, purity and service. As we learn from Him, our lives should increasingly reflect the One we profess to follow.

Make a fresh commitment to learn Christ daily. Spend time in His Word, maintain fellowship with Him and obey His instructions. Allow Him to correct your attitudes, heal your relationships and guide your decisions. Do not measure your growth only by what you know, but by how faithfully you live out His teachings. May your life become a clear testimony that you have learned Christ.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord Jesus, help me to know You more deeply in Jesus name.

2. Father, make me a faithful disciple of Christ in Jesus name.

3. Lord, give me grace to obey Your Word in Jesus name.

4. Father, remove every ungodly habit from my life in Jesus name.

5. Lord, fill me with the humility of Christ in Jesus name.

6. Father, teach me to love others as Christ loves me in Jesus name.

7. Lord, renew my mind and transform my character in Jesus name.

8. Father, strengthen me to remain faithful in trials in Jesus name.

9. Lord, make my life an example to others in Jesus name.

10. Father, help me to grow daily in Christ in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You will grow daily in the knowledge of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

2. You will walk in the obedience of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

3. Your character will reflect the humility of Jesus in the mighty name of Jesus.

4. You will overcome every habit that dishonours God in the mighty name of Jesus.

5. You will love others with the love of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

6. You will stand firm in faith through every trial in the mighty name of Jesus.

7. Your mind will be renewed by God's Word in the mighty name of Jesus.

8. You will serve God faithfully with your gifts in the mighty name of Jesus.

9. Your life will lead others closer to Jesus in the mighty name of Jesus.

10. You will finish your Christian race faithfully in the mighty name of Jesus.