Discussion: Live Like Christ?

The idea that Jesus showed us what is possible for humanity even here on earth can be difficult at times. In the early centuries of Christianity, Christians wrestled with the humanity of Jesus. One false step suggested that Jesus’ divinity was so immense that his humanity didn’t even count (Eutychianism). Another suggested that Jesus was a divine soul in a human body (Apollinarianism). Both were rejected because they did not take Jesus’ humanity seriously enough.

The books of Luke-Acts present a sense that, while on earth, Jesus modeled for us what was possible for humanity through the power of the Holy Spirit. In his sermon on the Day of Pentecost, Peter’s sermon highlighted that Jesus was a man through whom the Spirit did miraculous signs (2:22). It notes that God the Father raised Jesus rather than focusing on Jesus’ own power (2:24). Acts shows Peter and Paul, through the power of the Holy Spirit, doing the kinds of miracles that Jesus did and facing the kind of persecution that Jesus did.

This modeling of Jesus goes beyond the power to do miracles through the Spirit to the power to live a godly life. The concept, “What would Jesus do?” is not just aspirational. Jesus told the crowds to love completely as God loves completely (Matt. 5:48). Peter told his audiences to be holy as God as holy (1 Pet. 1:15). 

Could it be that Jesus modeled a holy life on earth that God wants for us as well through the power of the Holy Spirit? Engage this idea in an initial post of at least 300 words. Be forthright on your questions, doubts, and hopes.

After making your initial post, please read through your classmates’ responses and make at least three follow-up comments on a different day than your original post. Your response should contribute meaningfully to the discussion. You might ask questions for further insight or clarification. You might provide additional examples or perspectives or challenge ideas respectfully. Each follow-up comment should be at least 100 words. This discussion is worth 40 points.