Focus on Jesus

Christ is now our cornerstone.

1) The Foundation

Each building stone is fit into the whole building by its alignment to the cornerstone. Circle the word ‘corner stone’ below.

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow-citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone,“ (Ephesians 2:19-20)

What makes up the foundation?  __________________

The foundational teachings of the church of God are established through the prophets from the Old Testament and the apostles from the New Testament. We must reject the teachings of those who differ with the scriptures because they reject not just the apostle’s teaching but Christ’s teaching as well.

2) The Distraction

One of the evil one’s tactics is to get our eyes off Jesus the Cornerstone. Some Christian pastors and teachers will seek to please others. They speak the compliments people like to hear. Some focus on satisfying their pleasures. Paul gives us a caution on how we are to build.

Let each man be careful how he builds upon the foundation for no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. ... Each man’s work will become evident ... because it is to be revealed with fire. (1 Corinthians 3:10-13)

Everything will be judged by how well it complies to the Lord’s building codes. The building materials must match the foundation, which is Christ. Think about your own life. Which area do you have the most problem with? Put a check mark next to it.

      Pride: Trying to boost my ego by presenting a good image.

       Jealousy: Wanting the attention another person is getting.

       Envy: Desiring something that another has to look ‘cool.’

       Critical: Making ourselves look better than another.

We authenticate our faith when we look at and live by Jesus’ standard. Peter once asked Jesus about John’s future. Notice how Jesus’ response pulls Peter back to focus on Him.

“Jesus said to him, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me”” (John 21:22).

Application:

Close this section with a prayer. Ask  the  Lord to give you a heart that always focuses on Christ Jesus. Confess your tendency to  be distracted as noted by your check mark above.  Commit that area of your life to the Lord and seek His deliverance. Next ->