Walk the Talk

“Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” —1 John 2:6 (NIV)

You may know someone who says they’re a “cat person”—but when Fluffy approaches, they recoil. It’s a lighthearted example, but it reveals something deeper: when our claims don’t match our actions, we’re not being honest. Scripture has a word for this: hypocrisy. And 1 John doesn’t shy away from calling us to integrity. If we say we live in Christ, our lives must reflect His.

Verses 3–5 offer a litmus test:

• “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands.”

• “Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar...”

• “But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them.” In other words, our love for God matures as we live out His word.

But what does it mean to “keep his commands”? Jesus summed them up simply: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind—and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39) Obedience isn’t about rigid rule-keeping—it’s about living in love.

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. To “live as Jesus did” means walking in love, truth, humility, and obedience. Jesus sought the outcast, forgave the sinner, and challenged injustice. He prayed, served, and sacrificed. To follow Him is to embody these patterns—not just admire them.

Here are just a few glimpses of what that walk might look like:

• Forgiving when it’s hard.

• Speaking truth with love—choosing honesty that heals rather than honesty that harms. 

• Serving without seeking recognition.

• Listening deeply to others, and especially to the Holy Spirit.

• Praying faithfully even when doubt overshadows.

• Loving sacrificially—loving with your whole heart, mind, and strength.

It’s not about claiming a label—or checking off a box on a form—it’s about living a life. Christianity isn’t a badge; it’s a path. And every step we take in love, obedience, and grace is a step toward Christlikeness.

And when we stumble? Grace meets us. The path is not walked alone. Christ walks with us, and His Spirit strengthens us to begin again.

Lord Jesus, you walked this earth with compassion, courage, and truth. Help us to walk as you walked—not just in word, but in deed. Where we fall short, forgive us. Where we hesitate, strengthen us. May our lives reflect Your love, and may our hearts be shaped by Your Spirit. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim