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  GOD'S BLUEPRINT FOR BELIEVERS' LIVING
  by A.W. Tozer
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Summary: A true Christian should be characterized by humility,
compassion, and a desire for righteousness, and should live a life of
love and kindness.

Topics: "Christian Character", "Living Like Christ"
Scripture References: Matthew 5:3

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DESCRIPTION
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A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-10 outline the
characteristics of a true believer, highlighting qualities such as
humility, mercy, and a thirst for righteousness. He further explains
that the epistles, particularly Ephesians 4:26-5:2, provide practical
guidance on how to live out these qualities, urging believers to avoid
sin, speak kindly, and forgive one another as Christ forgave us. Tozer
calls for a life that imitates God, reflecting love and compassion in
our actions. He challenges listeners to examine their lives and
recognize what they may lack in their walk with God. Ultimately, the
sermon serves as a blueprint for living a life that honors God and
embodies the teachings of Christ.

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CONTENT
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In Matthew 5:3-10 we read: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is
the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be
comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will
be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the
peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who
are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.

That is what we ought to be. This passage tells what a true Christian
should be like. Go on to the epistles and see what the man of God has to
say there. In Ephesians 4:26--5:2 he says, "In your anger do not sin":
Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give
the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but
must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have
something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk
come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up
according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for
the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger,
brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and
compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ
God forgave you. Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved
children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave
himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. This is
what we ought to be. This is the way we ought to be living. When we say,
"Lord, what do I still lack?" the Holy Spirit answers, "This is what you
lack."

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/aw-tozer/gods-blueprint-for-believers-living/
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