There were times while doing homework I would look up a definition in the dictionary. That definition would lead me to another and that one to another. Before I knew it, I had spent an hour “reading” the dictionary. Nowadays as I read Bible commentaries, I find myself doing the same thing. During a recent commentary read, a section heading, Dwelling with Jesus, caused me to wonder what indwelling with Jesus meant. My research led me to these six Scriptures:
- John 14:20 (NIV)
- John 15:4 (NIV)
- Galatians 2:20 (NIV)
- Ephesians 3:17 (16-18 in context) (NIV)
- Colossians 1:27 (26-27 in context) (NIV)
- 1 John 3:24 (NKJV)
Of course, there are probably others that address this topic, but that can be your research.
As I read these verses, here is what I realized: the indwelling of Jesus describes an intimate, caring relationship (John 14:20; 1 John 3:24). He dwells in me because He cares for me. My old self is gone because Christ died for me, and by His resurrection the Holy Spirit now lives in me directing my way. His indwelling means that I have Him with me at all times; I am not alone. I have someone with me who knows my heart, understands my fears, sees my imperfections, rejoices in my triumphs, and comforts me in distress. Most importantly, I have someone who can translate these to God even when I am inarticulate.
But wait! It does not end there. I also realized that the indwelling of Christ requires action from me. Although God wants to be in a relationship with me, He wants me to seek a relationship with him. As I thought about the indwelling, the concept of suspension (yes, from high school science class) came to mind. A suspension, such as oil and vinegar in a salad dressing, requires an action to remain united. Shake up the oil and vinegar and you have a tasty dressing; without the shaking, the oil and vinegar separate. The same is true with the indwelling of Jesus. For Jesus’ indwelling in me to bear fruit, I need to be actively involved in this relationship, not just once, but continually.
What actions must I take to maintain that relationship? After reading those verses, I have concluded that I must:
- Keep God’s commands (I John 3:24). The Apostle John tells me that by keeping God’s commands, I abide in Him AND He abides in me. If I desire the indwelling and all of the glory that comes with that, then I must live by God’s commands. With so many commands how can I keep all of them? The greatest command is to love God with all my heart and soul, mind and strength. That great command powers all others.
- Have faith (Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 3:17; Colossians 1:27). The Apostle Paul tells me that I must have faith. Faith that Jesus is the Son of God. Faith that He died for my sins. Faith that He arose to glory so that I too will have that glory. And with that faith, I have hope.
- Be in love and in communion with each other (Ephesians 16-18). The second greatest command is to love my neighbor. It is in union and communion with my neighbor that I can experience the depth and breadth of God’s love. Love, not hate.
- Remain in Christ (John 15:4). Just as I would welcome a houseguest into my home-preparing a room, providing meals, offering fellowship-I must also do the same for Jesus. There must be room in my heart for Christ to dwell with me. I must keep the welcome sign lit for Him.
Reflection: How do you know that God is indwelling with you? What do you do to maintain your relationship with God?
