CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR LIFE

CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR LIFE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 1:21

Key Verse: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Matthew 6:33; Colossians 1:15-18; Galatians 2:20; John 15:4-5; Philippians 3:7-10; Colossians 3:1-4.

Description: This message teaches that genuine Christian living begins when Jesus Christ becomes the supreme focus, controlling influence, and ultimate purpose of every area of our lives.

INTRODUCTION

One of the greatest discoveries a Christian can make is that life becomes meaningful when Christ occupies the central position. Many people make wealth, education, marriage, career, fame, pleasure, and personal achievements the centre of their existence. However, all these things are temporary and cannot provide the lasting satisfaction that comes from knowing and serving Jesus Christ.

In Philippians 1:21, Apostle Paul declared, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” This statement reveals the depth of his relationship with Jesus. Christ was not merely part of Paul's life; Christ was the very essence of his life. His decisions, ambitions, sacrifices, ministry, relationships, and expectations were all governed by his commitment to Christ.

Every believer must therefore examine the position Christ occupies in their life. Is He at the centre of your family, finances, career, ministry, relationships, decisions, and daily activities? Christianity is not simply attending church, carrying a Bible, or participating in religious activities. It is living a life in which Jesus Christ has first place in everything.

1. CHRIST MUST BE THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR IDENTITY

When Christ becomes the centre of your life, your identity is no longer determined by your background, achievements, failures, possessions, or the opinions of people. You begin to understand yourself through your relationship with Jesus Christ. Your greatest identity is that you belong to Him.

A believer must not build life around earthly labels. Positions may change, wealth may disappear, and human recognition may fade, but your relationship with Christ remains the foundation of your spiritual identity.

a. YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN IN CHRIST (2 Corinthians 5:17)

The Christian life begins with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The Bible declares that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature. This means that accepting Christ brings a new spiritual identity and a new direction for living.

You cannot make Christ the centre of your life without first surrendering your life to Him. Church membership and religious activities cannot replace genuine salvation.

Practical application: Examine your relationship with Jesus. Do not depend on your parents' faith, your church attendance, or your religious title. Make a personal commitment to follow Christ.

b. YOUR LIFE MUST BE HIDDEN WITH CHRIST IN GOD (Colossians 3:3)

The Scripture says, “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” This means that the believer's security, identity, and spiritual existence are rooted in Christ.

When your life is hidden in Christ, you no longer allow the world to determine your value. You find your confidence in God's acceptance and the finished work of Jesus.

Practical application: Stop measuring your worth by what people say about you. Let your identity and confidence rest in Christ.

c. YOU MUST LIVE BY THE LIFE OF CHRIST (Galatians 2:20)

Paul declared that he was crucified with Christ, yet he lived, but Christ lived in him. This is the secret of a Christ-centred life. It is allowing Jesus to influence your thoughts, character, attitudes, and conduct.

The believer must continually surrender personal desires that contradict the will of God. The more Christ rules your heart, the more His character becomes visible through you.

Practical application: Before making important decisions, ask whether your choices reflect the character and teachings of Jesus.

d. YOUR IDENTITY MUST REFLECT CHRIST (Acts 11:26)

The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch because their lives and conduct identified them with Christ. Their faith was not merely a private declaration; it was evident in their lifestyle.

People should be able to recognise your Christian identity through your honesty, humility, love, forgiveness, integrity, and commitment to righteousness.

Practical application: Let your behaviour at home, in the marketplace, workplace, church, and community reflect the Lord you profess.

Biblical Example: Paul the Apostle (Philippians 3:7-10)

Paul counted his former achievements as loss for the excellency of knowing Christ. His identity was no longer built on religious status or personal accomplishments. Knowing Jesus became his greatest pursuit.

2. CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR PRIORITIES

Whatever occupies the highest position in your priorities will eventually control your time, energy, attention, and resources. A Christ-centred believer does not merely give Jesus a place in life; Jesus receives the first place.

Many Christians claim to love God, but their daily priorities reveal something different. They have time for business, entertainment, social activities, and personal interests, but little time for prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship with God.

a. SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD (Matthew 6:33)

Jesus commanded His followers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. This means that God's will must take priority over personal ambition and worldly pursuits.

Seeking God first does not mean abandoning your responsibilities. It means allowing God's principles to guide how you fulfil them.

Practical application: Organise your daily schedule so that prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience to God are not treated as optional activities.

b. GIVE CHRIST THE PRE-EMINENCE (Colossians 1:18)

The Bible declares that Christ must have the pre-eminence in all things. He must not be second to money, relationships, ambition, pleasure, or human approval.

When Christ has pre-eminence, every other area of life takes its proper position. You can pursue success without allowing success to become your god.

Practical application: Identify anything competing with Christ for first place in your heart and deliberately bring it under His authority.

c. VALUE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST ABOVE EARTHLY GAIN (Mark 8:36)

Jesus asked what profit a person would have if he gained the whole world and lost his soul. Earthly success cannot compensate for spiritual failure.

There is nothing wrong with having legitimate ambitions, but no achievement should be pursued at the expense of your relationship with God.

Practical application: Never sacrifice your faith, integrity, family responsibilities, or spiritual life merely to acquire wealth or recognition.

d. MAKE TIME FOR GOD DAILY (Psalm 63:1)

David expressed his deep desire for God by seeking Him early. A meaningful relationship requires attention, fellowship, and commitment.

You cannot consistently neglect God and expect to enjoy deep spiritual intimacy with Him. A Christ-centred life requires deliberate spiritual discipline.

Practical application: Establish a daily time for prayer, Bible reading, meditation, and communion with God.

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

While Martha was occupied with serving, Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened to His word. Jesus commended Mary for choosing the good part. Her example teaches that our activities must never become more important than our relationship with Christ.

3. CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR DECISIONS

A person's decisions determine the direction of their life. When Christ is at the centre, decisions are no longer based solely on convenience, emotions, pressure, or personal advantage. They are guided by the Word and the will of God.

Many people invite God into their lives only after making decisions and encountering difficulties. However, a Christ-centred believer seeks God's direction before taking important steps.

a. ACKNOWLEDGE GOD IN ALL YOUR WAYS (Proverbs 3:5-6)

The Bible instructs believers to trust in the Lord with all their hearts and not lean on their own understanding. We are to acknowledge Him in all our ways, and He will direct our paths.

Human reasoning has limitations. What appears attractive may eventually become destructive if it is outside God's will.

Practical application: Consult God through prayer and Scripture before making major decisions concerning marriage, business, career, ministry, and relationships.

b. LET THE WORD OF GOD GUIDE YOUR CHOICES (Psalm 119:105)

The Word of God is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. It provides divine principles for navigating life's challenges.

A Christ-centred believer does not choose what is popular at the expense of what is biblical. God's Word must remain the final authority.

Practical application: When faced with difficult choices, ask what the Bible teaches rather than simply following public opinion.

c. REFUSE TO COMPROMISE YOUR FAITH (Daniel 1:8)

Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king's provision. His decision demonstrated that his commitment to God was stronger than the pressure of his environment.

You will sometimes face situations where doing what is right may cost you an opportunity, friendship, promotion, or financial advantage. Christ must remain more important than temporary benefits.

Practical application: Make up your mind to maintain Christian integrity even when compromise appears profitable.

d. SUBMIT YOUR PLANS TO GOD'S WILL (James 4:13-15)

The Bible warns against boasting about tomorrow because human life is uncertain. We must acknowledge God's sovereignty and submit our plans to His will.

A Christ-centred person does not insist that God must approve every personal ambition. Instead, such a believer is willing to adjust plans when God's direction becomes clear.

Practical application: Learn to pray, “Lord, let Your will be done in my life,” and be willing to obey.

Biblical Example: Jesus Christ in Gethsemane (Luke 22:41-42)

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus expressed the weight of the suffering before Him, yet submitted to the Father's will. His obedience demonstrates that God's purpose must take priority over personal comfort.

4. CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

The relationships we maintain have a powerful influence on our spiritual lives. When Christ becomes the centre of our relationships, we learn to love, forgive, respect, serve, and relate with others according to His teachings.

A Christian cannot claim to be Christ-centred while deliberately practising hatred, bitterness, dishonesty, unforgiveness, and selfishness. Our relationship with Jesus must influence how we treat people.

a. LOVE OTHERS AS CHRIST HAS LOVED YOU (John 13:34-35)

Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment to love one another as He had loved them. He also declared that love would identify them as His disciples.

Christian love is not merely emotional affection. It is demonstrated through sacrifice, patience, kindness, compassion, and genuine concern for others.

Practical application: Treat your spouse, children, church members, colleagues, and neighbours with Christlike love.

b. PRACTISE FORGIVENESS (Ephesians 4:32)

The Bible instructs us to be kind, tender-hearted, and forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven us.

A heart controlled by bitterness cannot fully express the character of Christ. Forgiveness does not mean approving wrongdoing; it means refusing to allow resentment to control your heart.

Practical application: Release bitterness, settle unnecessary conflicts, and seek peace wherever possible.

c. WALK WITH PEOPLE WHO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH (1 Corinthians 15:33)

The Bible warns that evil communications corrupt good manners. The people we associate with can influence our values, habits, and spiritual direction.

A Christ-centred believer must exercise wisdom in choosing close friends and relationships. Love everyone, but do not allow destructive influences to pull you away from God.

Practical application: Build relationships with people who encourage holiness, prayer, spiritual growth, and godly character.

d. SERVE OTHERS WITH HUMILITY (Philippians 2:3-5)

Christ demonstrated humility by taking the form of a servant. His followers are called to reject selfish ambition and consider the interests of others.

A Christ-centred relationship is not built on pride, manipulation, or the desire to dominate others. It is built on humility and sacrificial service.

Practical application: Be willing to help, encourage, listen to, and support others without always expecting recognition.

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 2:42-47)

The early believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Their Christ-centred fellowship produced unity, generosity, spiritual growth, and a powerful testimony to the community.

5. CHRIST MUST BE THE CENTRE OF YOUR PURPOSE AND DESTINY

Every human being needs a reason for living beyond merely existing, acquiring possessions, and pursuing personal comfort. The Christian discovers life's ultimate purpose in Christ.

When Christ is the centre of your purpose, your talents, resources, opportunities, and experiences become instruments for fulfilling God's will. You begin to live for something greater than personal satisfaction.

a. LIVE TO PLEASE CHRIST (2 Corinthians 5:9)

Paul declared that his ambition was to be acceptable to the Lord. This must also be the ambition of every believer.

The question is not merely whether your activities please people, but whether they are acceptable before God. Your greatest success should be living in a way that honours Christ.

Practical application: Evaluate your daily conduct and ask whether your lifestyle brings glory to Jesus.

b. USE YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE GOD (1 Peter 4:10)

God has given every believer gifts and abilities that should be used to serve others. Your talent is not merely for personal advancement; it is also a responsibility entrusted to you by God.

A Christ-centred person does not bury divine gifts through laziness, fear, or selfishness. Instead, such a person develops and uses them for God's glory.

Practical application: Discover your gifts and find meaningful ways to use them in the church and the community.

c. MAKE THE GOSPEL YOUR PRIORITY (Mark 16:15)

Jesus commanded His disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel. This commission remains a responsibility for the Church.

When Christ is the centre of your life, the salvation of souls becomes important to you. You will not be satisfied with enjoying God's blessings alone while others remain without the knowledge of Christ.

Practical application: Share your testimony, invite people to church, support evangelism, and look for opportunities to lead others to Jesus.

d. LIVE WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW (Colossians 3:1-4)

The Bible instructs believers to set their affection on things above, where Christ sits at the right hand of God. This means that our earthly activities must be guided by eternal values.

A person who lives with eternity in view will not allow temporary pleasures to destroy an everlasting inheritance. Such a person understands that life on earth is an opportunity to prepare for eternity.

Practical application: Invest your time and resources in things that have eternal value. Live faithfully and finish your Christian race well.

Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:7-14)

Paul abandoned the pursuit of earthly religious recognition as his ultimate goal and made knowing Christ his highest ambition. He pressed toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. His life demonstrates what happens when Christ becomes the centre of a person's purpose.

CONCLUSION

Christ must not merely be a visitor in your life; He must be the Lord who occupies the throne of your heart. He must influence your identity, priorities, decisions, relationships, ambitions, and daily conduct. When Jesus is at the centre, every other area of life begins to take its proper position. You may not have everything you desire, but you will have the greatest treasure when you have Christ.

The greatest question is not how much you have achieved, how much money you possess, or how many people recognise you. The greatest question is whether Christ truly occupies the centre of your life. Like Paul, let your testimony be, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Make Jesus your greatest pursuit, your highest priority, and the reason for your existence.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, take Your rightful place at the centre of my life in Jesus name.

2. Lord, remove everything competing with You in my heart in Jesus name.

3. Father, help me to seek Your kingdom first in Jesus name.

4. Lord, let my decisions always reflect Your will in Jesus name.

5. Father, give me grace to live by the teachings of Christ in Jesus name.

6. Lord, let my relationships reflect Your love and humility in Jesus name.

7. Father, deliver me from worldly distractions in Jesus name.

8. Lord, make my life a testimony of Your glory in Jesus name.

9. Father, help me to fulfil Your purpose for my life in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let Christ be magnified in every area of my life in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Christ shall remain the centre of your life and destiny.

2. You shall not be distracted from God's purpose for your life.

3. Your heart shall continually hunger and thirst for God.

4. Your decisions shall be guided by divine wisdom.

5. Your relationships shall reflect the love of Christ.

6. You shall overcome every influence pulling you away from God.

7. Your gifts and abilities shall bring glory to Jesus.

8. Your life shall become a testimony of Christ's transforming power.

9. You shall fulfil your God-given purpose and finish well.

10. Christ shall be magnified in your body, your family, your ministry, and your destiny, in Jesus' name.

FINAL CHARGE

Do not build your life around what you possess, what you achieve, or what people say about you. Build your life around Jesus Christ. Let Him occupy the throne of your heart, direct your steps, govern your decisions, and determine your priorities.

May your life continually declare: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”