Whose Possession Defines Ownership? - A Christian Perspective
Introduction
In the context of ownership, the concept is often defined by whose possession something is. From a Christian perspective, this notion extends beyond material possessions to encompass every aspect of our lives. If we are to consider ourselves as God's possession, it raises profound questions about what we truly own and what we can rightfully offer back to God. This essay delves into the theological and practical implications of being God's possession and the journey towards becoming a new creation in Jesus Christ.
Understanding God's Ownership
The idea that we belong to God is a foundational principle in Christianity. According to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." This passage underscores the belief that our very existence is a gift from God, and we are stewards of everything He has entrusted to us.
In recognizing ourselves as God's possession, we acknowledge that our lives, including our thoughts, words, actions, and possessions, are under His sovereign control. This recognition is not merely a theological concept but a practical reality that influences how we live and interact with the world around us.
Examining Our Possessions
When we consider what we own, it is essential to differentiate between material and immaterial possessions. Material possessions include our belongings, wealth, and property, while immaterial possessions encompass our thoughts, words, actions, and affiliations. As Christians, we are called to scrutinize all these aspects through the lens of God's ownership.
Material Possessions
Material possessions often come to mind first when discussing ownership. The Bible provides numerous teachings on how to handle wealth and possessions. In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus teaches, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
This passage encourages believers to focus on eternal values rather than temporary, earthly gains. It challenges us to use our material possessions in ways that honor God and further His kingdom. This might involve acts of charity, supporting the church, or using our resources to help those in need.
Immaterial Possessions
Our immaterial possessions, such as thoughts, words, and actions, are equally significant. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Our inner life and mindset shape our behavior and interactions with others. Therefore, it is crucial to align our inner thoughts and attitudes with God's will.
Words are powerful tools that can either build up or tear down. Ephesians 4:29 states, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." By choosing our words carefully and speaking life into others, we honor God with our speech.
Actions, too, reflect our commitment to God. James 2:17 reminds us, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." Our faith must manifest in tangible actions that demonstrate our love for God and others. This includes acts of service, kindness, and integrity in all aspects of life.
Communities and Relationships
Our involvement in various communities and relationships also falls under the realm of what we 'possess.' These include our families, churches, workplaces, and social circles. Each relationship is an opportunity to reflect God's love and grace.
Family
The family is a primary context in which we live out our faith. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." By fostering a godly environment at home, we honor God and pass on His teachings to the next generation.
Church
Within the church, we find a community of believers who support and encourage one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Active participation in church life strengthens our faith and allows us to serve others.
Workplace
The workplace is another sphere where we can demonstrate our commitment to God. Colossians 3:23-24 advises, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." By performing our work with excellence and integrity, we honor God and serve as a testimony to our colleagues.
Assessing Worthiness
When we examine our possessions, both material and immaterial, it is crucial to assess their worthiness to be offered to God. Not everything we possess is fit to be presented before Him. This process of evaluation requires honesty and a willingness to let go of anything that does not align with His will.
Psalm 139:23-24 provides a prayerful approach to this evaluation: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." By inviting God's scrutiny, we allow Him to reveal any unworthy aspects of our lives that need transformation.
Becoming a New Creation in Christ
Ultimately, the ability to offer worthy possessions to God is tied to our identity as new creations in Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This transformation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of renewal.
Daily renewal in Christ involves several key practices:
Prayer and Devotion
Regular prayer and devotion help us stay connected to God and seek His guidance. Philippians 4:6 encourages, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Through prayer, we align our will with God's and find the strength to live out our faith.
Scripture Reading
Engaging with the Bible is essential for spiritual growth. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we gain wisdom and direction for our lives.
Fellowship
Fellowship with other believers provides support and accountability. Proverbs 27:17 notes, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Through relationships with fellow Christians, we are encouraged and challenged to grow in our faith.
Service
Serving others is a tangible way to express our faith. Matthew 25:40 highlights the importance of service: "The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’" Acts of service reflect God's love and compassion to the world.
Conclusion
The journey of understanding and living out God's ownership in our lives is a continual process of examination and renewal. By recognizing that we are God's possession, we are called to scrutinize every aspect of our lives—material possessions, thoughts, words, actions, and relationships—and ensure they are worthy of being offered to Him.
Becoming a new creation in Jesus Christ is central to this journey. It involves daily practices of prayer, Scripture reading, fellowship, and service, all of which help us align our lives with God's will. As we grow in our faith, we learn to offer everything we have to God, confident that in Him, we find true ownership and purpose.
May each day be a step towards becoming more like Christ, experiencing the peace and fulfillment that come from living as God's beloved possession. Today and always, may it be a Shalom Day in Jesus Christ!