The Center of Everything – Christ

Why Christ Is the Goal

The patterns we're going to explore aren't just interesting ideas or philosophical concepts. They are paths to understanding and imitating Jesus.

Jesus showed us how to live in right relationship – both upward (to the Father) and downward (to others). He mastered the art of receiving and giving, following and leading, listening and speaking.

In relation to the Father, Jesus showed perfect receptivity:

• "Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." (Luk 22:42)
• "The Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing." (Joh 5:19)

In relation to His disciples, Jesus showed perfect leadership:

• He explained patiently, loved deeply, served faithfully
• "No longer do I call you servants... I have called you friends." (Joh 15:15)

The Promise

When you understand the patterns we're about to explore, you'll see why Christ is the key to everything. You'll understand how He integrated roles that seem contradictory, and how you can do the same.

You don't have to figure this out on your own. Jesus has already shown how it's done. All you need is:

1. Understand the patterns (that's what these pages are about)
2. Look at how Christ lived them out
3. Let the Holy Spirit teach you from within

You won't do it perfectly – even the disciples didn't. But the goal is clear, and the way has been shown.

We'll return to a deeper explanation of how Christ masters all the patterns after you've learned the foundational concepts.