The Benefits of Living According to the New Testament

The importance of living by the principles outlined in the New Testament cannot be overstated. This ancient document, originally written to instruct followers about Jesus Christ, offers a path toward divine righteousness and a straight and narrow path to God's presence. This essay explores the reasons why embracing the New Testament as a guiding principle can be beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual journey.

The Restoration of Covenants and Ordinances

The New Testament represents an upgrade to the covenants and ordinances that came before it. As Jesus stated, all previous covenants had been done away due to the corruptions of men. This update serves as a powerful reminder that true spiritual growth comes not through human corruption but through adherence to divine principles. By choosing the New Testament's guidance and rejecting corruption, individuals can align their lives more closely with God's will.

Living in Righteousness and Holiness

To live in complete righteousness means to walk each day on the straight and narrow path that leads to God's presence. By doing so, one can align themselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ and achieve the ultimate goal of being with God, just as Jesus was with His Father. This path requires intentional effort and commitment but offers a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.

The Dangers of Following Personal Views

Failing to follow the New Testament and instead adhering to the views of just one person can be misguided. While Jesus was indeed a good and exemplary figure, suggesting that everyone should follow His teachings merely because He was a deity is incomplete. The Bible clearly states that Jesus was the son of God, but it also teaches that all people are children of God. Thus, Jesus was not meant to be a god but a profound teacher of God's ways.

Jesus came to show that ultimate justice is found in forgiveness, teaching principles like turning the other cheek and loving one's enemies. This approach, rather than focusing on personal views or the concept of divine retribution, invites individuals to seek reconciliation and understanding.

The Choice Among Various Religions

Not everyone views the New Testament as a central document in their spiritual journey. For those who are not of the Christian faith, the New Testament stands as one of many valuable texts in the world's spiritual libraries. Christians, however, can find a wealth of guidance within its pages.

The New Testament serves as a guide for finding one's way to God through Jesus Christ. It is the only covenant offered by God to humanity, as evidenced by its teachings and instructions. Central passages like Ephesians 2:12-22 KJV detail the transformative power of accepting Jesus as the way to God. This passage highlights that before Christ's coming, humanity was in a state of spiritual alienation and infertility, but through Him, believers can find redemption and spiritual renewal.

Practical Steps to Align Your Life with the New Testament

To truly live by the principles of the New Testament, one must take practical steps. These include:

Attending Church: Engage with a community of believers. While any building with a church sign can be a venue, the cornerstone of the New Testament lies in its spiritual teachings, which are best passed down through living, breathing communities of faith. Studying the Scriptures: Delve into the texts and teachings of the New Testament to understand the context and meaning behind the words. Practicing Forgiveness: Embrace the teachings of Jesus to forgive others and practice self-forgiveness. This can lead to deeper spiritual fulfillment and interpersonal relationships. Following Instructions: Pay attention to the instructions given by the apostles, which are detailed in letters such as those to churches and communities facing various challenges.

Ultimately, living according to the New Testament can lead to a richer, more fulfilling spiritual life, characterized by righteousness, forgiveness, and acceptance of God's ways. By embracing these principles, individuals can find their path to God and a deeper understanding of the true nature of Jesus Christ.