What does it mean to Thrive?
One of the greatest questions in life is its very purpose, or meaning. “Why am I here? What am I supposed to do with my life?” The Bible provides a clear, definitive answer for this question that is universally applicable to all people, at all times, in all places.
In John 10:10, Jesus tells us that He came to give abundant life. This is the essence of the meaning of life: to live abundantly in Jesus. We call this Thriving. We can find further clarity about how we live abundantly, or Thrive, in 1 Corinthians 10:31 where we are instructed to do all for the glory of God. Based on this passage, we can conclude that a Thriving disciple is a disciple who is committed to bringing Christ glory in every aspect of his or her life.
We can begin to see how we accomplish this purpose in life in Matthew 22:34-40. In this passage Jesus summarizes the entire Old Testament Law in two imperatives. Love God. Love people. It’s pretty much that simple. At least it’s that simple to say. One final passage deserves consideration. In Luke 14:25-32 Jesus gave very clear instructions for whoever wants to follow Him: count the cost. Jesus was very clear that if anyone wants to follow Him and experience a Thriving life in Him, he or she must first be willing to sacrifice everything for Christ. Nothing can be held back. It’s a quest that is to be taken seriously, but at the same time it is worth it.
In short, that is why First Baptist Church of Tampa exists.
We want to help every person in Tampa (and beyond) make a genuine commitment to follow Jesus and then follow through with that commitment in Christ and Thrive in life. These Thriving disciples should Dig In to the Bible, Grow Up in Christ, and Branch Out into the community.
