We are at a point where every believer watching for the soon return of the Lord, needs continuous self-check, conscious of the following landmarks:

Beloved, we are [even here and] now God’s children; it is not yet disclosed (made clear) what we shall be [hereafter], but we know that when He comes and is manifested, we shall [as God’s children] resemble and be like Him, for we shall see Him just as He [really] is. And everyone who has this hope [resting] on Him cleanses (purifies) himself just as He is pure (chaste, undefiled, guiltless). 1 John 3:2-3 (AMPC)

External religious worship [religion as it is expressed in outward acts] that is pure and unblemished in the sight of God the Father is this: to visit and help and care for the orphans and widows in their affliction and need, and to keep oneself unspotted and uncontaminated from the world. James 1:27 (AMPC), and

So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself from contact with contaminating and corrupting influences] will [then himself] be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes, consecrated and profitable to the Master, fit and ready for any good work. 2 Timothy 2:21 AMPC

Our theme text in 2 Corinthians 13:5 expands on the reason for the self-check and how to go about it, and we share the same below.

Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it. Test and prove yourselves [not Christ]. Do you not yourselves realize and know [thoroughly by an ever-increasing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you are [counterfeits] disapproved on trial and rejected? 2 Corinthians 13:5 AMPC

The sole purpose of a self-assessment is to ensure genuine faith. This self-examination is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process of reflecting on one’s beliefs and actions in light of God’s word.

Specifically, we want to:

1. identify whether one’s faith is genuine or merely a superficial profession.
2. detect areas where we might be deceiving ourselves or others about our true spiritual state.
3. lead ourselves to a deeper understanding of God’s word and a stronger commitment to following Christ.
4. identify areas where our actions may contradict our professed beliefs.

How can one examine him or herself?

1. Study God’s Word to see how what you are believing and your actions compare with the teachings of Scripture.
2. Reflect on your heart evaluating constantly your motives, attitudes, and desires and seeing whether your behaviour is consistent with the faith.
3. Seek guidance, talking to trusted mentors or pastors who can provide feedback and encouragement and
4. Constantly praying for discernment asking God to help you to see areas where you need to grow or repent.

Over the next series of postings, we will explore areas that you may want to focus on. Beloved, maranatha! The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Shalom

Pastor Afolabi Oladele