Embracing New Life Through Faith in Jesus
Summary
In this second week of our foundation series, we delve into the profound question of why Jesus came to earth: to offer us new life. Many people wander through life without understanding their true purpose, often seeking happiness and fulfillment in material possessions, fun, or success. However, true contentment is found in discovering our purpose, which is to have a personal relationship with God. Jesus came to provide us with an abundant life, as stated in John 10:10, and this new life brings numerous benefits, including strength, peace, purpose, and freedom.
Despite the availability of this new life, many continue to search for happiness because of our inherent desire to follow our own paths, often ignoring God's principles. This self-centered attitude, described as sin, separates us from God. The Bible clearly states that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory, and this sin affects every aspect of our lives. Our attempts to find fulfillment through our own efforts, whether through good deeds or religious practices, are futile. The solution lies in Jesus, who declared Himself as the way, the truth, and the life. Salvation is a gift from God, not earned by works, but received through faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
To access this new life, we must be born again, as Jesus explained to Nicodemus. This involves a spiritual rebirth, a transformation that begins with repentance and faith in Jesus. Repentance is more than feeling sorry for our sins; it is a turning away from sin and a commitment to follow God's path. It requires an inward change of heart that leads to outward actions. True repentance is evidenced by a changed life, as we align our actions with God's will.
Salvation is a journey, not a one-time event. It involves continually seeking God's forgiveness and striving to live according to His principles. This new life in Christ offers us the opportunity to walk a different path, free from the bondage of sin. As we embrace this new life, we are called to be disciples of Jesus, counting the cost and committing to live for Him. This journey includes baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and growing in the fruits of the Spirit. Today, I invite you to embrace this new life, to repent, believe, and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Key Takeaways:
- True contentment and purpose in life are found in a personal relationship with God, not in material possessions or achievements. This relationship offers us an abundant life filled with peace, strength, and freedom. [02:43]
- Sin separates us from God and affects every aspect of our lives. Our attempts to find fulfillment through our own efforts are futile. The solution lies in Jesus, who offers us salvation as a gift through faith. [08:37]
- Being born again is essential to entering the kingdom of God. This involves a spiritual rebirth through repentance and faith in Jesus, leading to a transformed life. [15:17]
- Repentance is more than feeling sorry for our sins; it is a turning away from sin and a commitment to follow God's path. True repentance is evidenced by a changed life and actions that align with God's will. [29:12]
- Salvation is a journey that involves continually seeking God's forgiveness and striving to live according to His principles. This new life in Christ offers us the opportunity to walk a different path, free from the bondage of sin. [33:54]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:18] - The Purpose of Life
[02:43] - Benefits of New Life in Christ
[05:09] - The Problem of Sin
[07:06] - Futility of Human Efforts
[08:37] - Jesus: The Only Way
[12:00] - Salvation as a Gift
[13:44] - Righteousness by Faith
[15:17] - Born Again: A New Beginning
[17:00] - Jewish Beliefs and New Birth
[19:42] - Personal Responsibility in Salvation
[20:31] - The Meaning of Belief
[22:45] - Actions of Faith
[24:15] - Calling on the Lord
[26:33] - Repentance and Heart Change
[28:02] - Godly Sorrow and Repentance
[29:12] - Inward Change, Outward Action
[32:22] - The Journey of Repentance
[33:54] - Walking a New Path
[35:51] - The Beauty of Forgiveness
[37:43] - Embracing the New Life
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. John 10:10 - "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
2. Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
3. John 3:3 - "Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'"
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Observation Questions:
1. According to John 10:10, what kind of life does Jesus offer to those who follow Him? How is this life described in the sermon? [02:43]
2. In Romans 3:23, what does it mean that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God? How does this concept relate to the sermon’s discussion on sin? [05:09]
3. What does Jesus mean when He tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the kingdom of God? How is this concept explained in the sermon? [15:17]
4. How does the sermon describe the benefits of the new life in Christ? What are some specific examples given? [02:43]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon explain the relationship between sin and separation from God? Why is this separation significant for understanding the need for salvation? [05:09]
2. What does the sermon suggest about the futility of human efforts to achieve salvation? How does this align with the message of Ephesians 2:8-9? [12:00]
3. How does the concept of being "born again" challenge the beliefs of Nicodemus and the Jewish leaders of his time? What does this reveal about the nature of salvation? [17:00]
4. In what ways does the sermon describe repentance as more than just feeling sorry for sins? How is true repentance characterized? [29:12]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own life. Are there areas where you are seeking fulfillment through material possessions or achievements rather than a relationship with God? How can you shift your focus to find true contentment? [01:18]
2. The sermon discusses the importance of repentance and turning away from sin. Is there a specific sin or habit in your life that you need to address? What steps can you take to genuinely repent and change your actions? [29:12]
3. Consider the idea of being "born again." Have you experienced a spiritual rebirth in your life? If not, what might be holding you back from taking this step? [15:17]
4. The sermon emphasizes that salvation is a journey. How can you continually seek God's forgiveness and strive to live according to His principles in your daily life? [33:54]
5. Think about the concept of counting the cost of being a disciple of Jesus. What sacrifices might you need to make to live wholeheartedly for Him? How can you commit to this journey? [34:37]
6. The sermon mentions the importance of baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit. Have you taken these steps in your faith journey? If not, what might be your next step in embracing the new life in Christ? [39:40]
7. Reflect on the idea of walking a new path, free from the bondage of sin. What practical changes can you make in your life to walk this new path more faithfully? [33:54]
Devotional
Day 1: Discovering True Contentment in God
True contentment and purpose in life are found in a personal relationship with God, not in material possessions or achievements. Many people spend their lives chasing after things they believe will bring them happiness, such as wealth, success, or entertainment. However, these pursuits often leave them feeling empty and unfulfilled. The true purpose of life is to cultivate a personal relationship with God, which brings an abundant life filled with peace, strength, and freedom. This relationship with God is the source of true contentment, as it aligns us with our divine purpose and fills the void that material possessions cannot satisfy. [02:43]
"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." (Romans 14:17 ESV)
Reflection: What is one material possession or achievement you have been pursuing for contentment? How can you shift your focus towards deepening your relationship with God today?
Day 2: The Futility of Self-Reliance
Sin separates us from God and affects every aspect of our lives. Our attempts to find fulfillment through our own efforts are futile. Many people try to bridge the gap between themselves and God through good deeds or religious practices, but these efforts fall short. Sin, which is essentially a self-centered attitude, creates a barrier between us and God. The solution to this separation is found in Jesus, who offers us salvation as a gift through faith. By accepting this gift, we can overcome the futility of self-reliance and experience the fullness of life that God intends for us. [08:37]
"For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin." (Romans 3:20 ESV)
Reflection: In what ways have you been relying on your own efforts to find fulfillment? How can you begin to trust in Jesus' gift of salvation instead?
Day 3: Embracing Spiritual Rebirth
Being born again is essential to entering the kingdom of God. This involves a spiritual rebirth through repentance and faith in Jesus, leading to a transformed life. Jesus explained to Nicodemus that to see the kingdom of God, one must be born again. This spiritual rebirth is not a physical change but a profound transformation of the heart and mind. It begins with repentance, which is more than just feeling sorry for our sins; it is a commitment to turn away from sin and follow God's path. Through faith in Jesus, we are given a new beginning and the opportunity to live a life aligned with God's will. [15:17]
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
Reflection: What does being "born again" mean to you personally? How can you embrace this new beginning in your daily life?
Day 4: The Evidence of True Repentance
Repentance is more than feeling sorry for our sins; it is a turning away from sin and a commitment to follow God's path. True repentance is evidenced by a changed life and actions that align with God's will. It requires an inward change of heart that leads to outward actions. This transformation is not just about avoiding sin but actively pursuing a life that reflects God's love and righteousness. As we repent and turn towards God, our lives begin to bear the fruits of the Spirit, demonstrating the authenticity of our faith. [29:12]
"Bear fruit in keeping with repentance." (Matthew 3:8 ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a specific area of your life where you need to demonstrate true repentance. What practical steps can you take to align your actions with God's will?
Day 5: Walking the Path of Salvation
Salvation is a journey that involves continually seeking God's forgiveness and striving to live according to His principles. This new life in Christ offers us the opportunity to walk a different path, free from the bondage of sin. It is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of growth and transformation. As we embrace this new life, we are called to be disciples of Jesus, committing to live for Him and grow in the fruits of the Spirit. This journey includes baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, and continually seeking God's guidance and forgiveness. [33:54]
"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." (Philippians 2:12 ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively participate in your journey of salvation today? What steps can you take to deepen your commitment to living according to God's principles?
Quotes
"People exist year after year with no real idea of why they live or without really knowing God's purpose for their lives. And really, the most important thing is, the most basic question that a person can ask is, what is the meaning of my life, right? There's got to be more than just being born or growing up or making money or starting a family or not, you know, finding a career, retiring or not, you know, and then dying. There's got to be more than that." [00:01:18] (32 seconds)
"Everybody wants to be happy and successful, and people try to achieve that in so many different ways. People try to find their happiness. They try to find their happiness by acquiring more stuff or maybe by having more fun or maybe making more money, but real contentment in life only comes when we find our true purpose. Amen?" [00:01:49] (22 seconds)
"See, the problem is that we have a natural desire to be our own boss. We want to pursue our own agenda. And many times we just want to ignore God's principles for living. And the Bible calls this attitude sin. It does. Look out for number one. Number one. If it's your own thing, if it feels good, do it, regardless of what the Bible says about it. And you know, we all do it or we all have done it." [00:03:36] (31 seconds)
"Sin breaks that close relationship with God and it causes us to try to live our lives outside of His will. Amen. Listen to the prophet Isaiah again. Here's what he said. Isaiah 59 verse 1 and 2. Listen. The Lord's arm is not weak to save you, nor is His ear too deaf to hear your call. Verse 2. It's your sins that have cut you off from God. Amen. And because of your sins, he said, He has turned away and will not listen anymore." [00:04:18] (32 seconds)
"To become a disciple of Jesus, it is more than just an invitation to repeat a prayer. It is an invitation to give up your life and serve God. You got to count the cost of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Repent and believe. Call out to God to save you. Turn from sin. Give your life to Jesus and live for Him. That is the gospel call. Hear me. The terminology and the exact words don't matter." [00:26:00] (34 seconds)
"Repentance is basically defined as a turning around or an about face. It is an inward, hear me, inward change of attitude that leads to an outward change of action. Don't miss it. That inward change of attitude and heart that leads to an outward change of action and here be unless both of them occur inward change of heart outward change of action genuine repentance is yet to take place in your life I'm saying that with love now listen it may take a long time for that inward change to show up on the outside that's all right we're all about the journey here at Life Church come on we will take three steps forward and two steps back with you we will hold your hand and help you on your journey but there's got to be eventually something that transcribes in our lives that calls us to say I got to get off the path I was on and get on the right path can the church say amen" [00:29:36] (55 seconds)
"Look at Acts chapter 26 verse 20 all must repent of their sins and what turn to God repent and turn and what prove they have changed how by the good things they do folks that's the Bible that's the Apostle Paul repent turn from God prove that you have changed how by the good stuff you're doing now that takes place of the bad stuff you used to do that's what the scripture says don't miss that amen you prove you have repented when you change inwardly by the good things that you do outward listen to what Jesus said Matthew 3 and 8 if Paul's words weren't good enough for you look at Jesus prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turn to God hallelujah folks I'm already telling you don't miss this you don't have to be perfect every day doesn't have to be the best day ever amen but you do have to make an effort to change your life when you pray and you invite Christ into your life. It can't just be words." [00:29:36] (77 seconds)
"That's why you can't just repeat something that somebody whispers in your ear or you read off of a piece of paper. Amen. It's got to be something that happens in your life, in your heart. A shift of allegiance from the world to God. A shift of allegiance from the old life to Jesus. A shift of allegiance from I'm serving the devil to now by the grace of God and to the best of my ability, I'm going to serve Jesus. And listen, he knows. He knows." [00:31:40] (35 seconds)
"What's so beautiful is that our Creator looked down upon us in our pitiful, sinful condition. And He had a plan. He sent His Son. God robed in flesh. So that we could be reconciled to the Father forever. Amen? If you could just see God for who He is. And if you could take a moment and look at yourself. With Jesus. And without Jesus. And then by the grace of God, just call out to Him and say, Lord, I'm going to serve you all the days of my life." [00:38:42] (33 seconds)
"So what I want to do today is we open this altar. I want to invite you, first of all, if you've not done this already, to come out and profess your belief in the Lord. And call upon Him to be saved. And repent of your sins. If you haven't already done that, you can do that today. Amen. Amen. If you're already a believer and you've never been baptized in the Holy Spirit, you can pray for that today." [00:39:35] (25 seconds)
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