When we want to learn a new language, perhaps the first thing we do is go buy a book and learn some of the words. But this method is kind of stale, boring and takes a long time.

We then might go out and buy tapes/CDs on the language and listen to it, which seems better than the book.

But if we are really going to learn the language, experts all agree that the best way to become knowledgeable of the language is to do one thing. That is immersion. What is immersion? In this case it is to fully put yourself in the culture of the language. Surround yourself with people that speak that particular tongue. The more you do this and immerse yourself daily, over long periods of time, you will best pick up the language.

When it comes to living as a Christian, putting on the new life in Christ, the same principle comes into play.

Of course we could read books about being a Christian (not bad to do); or we could listen to tapes/CDs of teachings of our new life in Christ (better yet).

But if you really want to live like Christ walked, you need to immerse yourself into being around others who walk the Christian talk; you need to attend fellowships where not only do you learn more about living the love of God, but you see it and can even exercise it yourself with others. In other words, throw yourself into the lifestyle by not only reading God’s Word or listening to it, but get involved with believers who want to grow and live the Christians lifestyle. Immerse yourself with others in fellowships (be it meetings or informal gatherings of the saints).

Don’t stick your big toe in the water if you want to get wet. Jump in and really get wet with Christ. Put Him on all the time.

Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Colossians 3:10, 12 & 14: And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

Hebrews 10:24 & 25: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Agape,
Bob