The only way a human can continually manifest the character of Jesus (the fruit of the Spirit) is by denying and dying to the desires and demands of sin and of self (the flesh) and instead, being continually led by the Spirit (the living Jesus). That goes beyond theology and methodology. It’s an ongoing choice to embrace love, sacrifice, surrender, obedience, and relationship, and to follow “Christ in you” no matter what the cost.

It’s not enough to be inspired and informed by Scripture. We must be inwardly transformed by it–overcome and undone. “Let the word of God dwell in you richly.” “Be doers of the word, not hearers only.”

The living Jesus isn’t subjective. “Christ in you” isn’t your whims or opinions. He’s real and He speaks objectively within human hearts! Listen. Humans also have an inner objectivity that often resists personal feelings, desires, or opinions. It’s called conscience.

Religious methodology and theology cannot mend this heart of mine, but the living Jesus does! When we self-identify as human, we’re all in the same boat.

The New Testament is full of “one another” commands. I’m so glad God has given me committed, radical Christ-followers to walk in the Spirit with! I need other humans to help me walk with Jesus. Jesus is building communities of the heart–people who are connected heart-to-heart with Him and with all who love and obey Him.