Embracing Our Identity and Power in Christ
Summary
Today, I explored the profound significance of our gatherings as a church community, emphasizing the spiritual warfare and declarations we make in the spiritual realm when we come together. This isn't merely a routine assembly; it's a pivotal event in the cosmos where we proclaim God's glory. Our small church in Commerce City might seem insignificant on a global scale, but in spiritual terms, it's immensely powerful.
I delved into the essence of our identity in Christ, stressing that our identity isn't something we create based on our achievements or failures. Instead, it's received from God. This identity shapes our actions; we don't act to become, but because we already are. This foundational truth is crucial as it liberates us from the pressure of trying to earn our worth and allows us to live out our true identity in Christ.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the scriptural teachings about salvation presented in 1 Corinthians 15 and Ephesians 2. These passages highlight the threefold aspect of salvation: we have been saved (justification), we are being saved (sanctification), and we will be saved (glorification). This ongoing process is not just about reaching a destination but about becoming more like Christ every day.
I also addressed the transformative power of the Word of God, which is sharper than any two-edged sword. It discerns our thoughts and intentions, revealing who we truly are before God. This truth underscores the importance of not just hearing the Word but actively applying it in our lives, embodying the principles we learn to become doers of the Word.
Lastly, I touched on the internal battle each believer faces, as described in Galatians 5 and Romans 7. This struggle between the flesh and the Spirit is a daily reality that requires us to walk by the Spirit to overcome the desires of the flesh. This process is part of our sanctification, where we are gradually transformed into the image of Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Gathering: Every time we come together as a church, we engage in spiritual warfare and make declarations in the spiritual realm. This is not just a local event but a cosmic one, where the gathered church displays God's glory to principalities and powers. Our small community's worship is a powerful force in the spiritual world. [08:00]
2. Identity Received, Not Achieved: Our true identity is a gift from God, not something we can earn or fabricate through our actions. Understanding this frees us from the burden of proving our worth and allows us to live out the fullness of life that Christ offers. This truth is foundational for every believer to grasp and live out. [09:36]
3. The Ongoing Nature of Salvation: Salvation is presented in Scripture as a past event, a present process, and a future promise. This comprehensive view helps us understand that while we are secure in Christ's finished work, we are also participating in an ongoing process of transformation that prepares us for our ultimate redemption. [12:44]
4. The Transformative Power of God's Word: The Word of God is alive and active, capable of penetrating our deepest parts and discerning our true intentions. It's crucial not just to hear the Word but to apply it, allowing it to transform us from the inside out. This involves a continuous return to Scripture to remind ourselves of who God says we are. [49:58]
5. The Internal Battle of Transformation: The Christian life involves an internal battle where the Spirit and the flesh are in constant conflict. Understanding and navigating this tension is crucial for spiritual growth. As we walk by the Spirit, we gradually overcome the desires of the flesh and grow in holiness and righteousness. [33:13]
### Youtube Chapters
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [08:00] - The Significance of Our Gathering
- [09:36] - Receiving Our Identity in Christ
- [12:44] - Understanding Salvation's Tenses
- [33:13] - The Battle Within: Flesh vs. Spirit
- [49:58] - The Power of God's Transformative Word
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 - "Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain."
2. Ephesians 2:5, 8 - "Even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved... For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God."
3. Galatians 5:16-17 - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Corinthians 15:1-2, what are the three stages of salvation mentioned? How does Paul describe the process of being saved? [11:12]
2. In Ephesians 2:5, 8, what does Paul emphasize about the nature of salvation? How is it described as a gift? [12:44]
3. What does Galatians 5:16-17 say about the conflict between the flesh and the Spirit? How does this passage describe the internal battle believers face? [33:13]
4. How does the sermon describe the significance of our church gatherings in the spiritual realm? [08:00]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding that our identity in Christ is received, not achieved, change the way we live our daily lives? [09:36]
2. What does the ongoing nature of salvation (justification, sanctification, glorification) teach us about our spiritual journey? How does this perspective affect our view of personal growth and transformation? [12:44]
3. How can the transformative power of God's Word, as described in Hebrews 4:12, impact our daily decisions and actions? [49:58]
4. What practical steps can we take to walk by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh, according to Galatians 5:16-17? [33:13]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the significance of our church gatherings. How can you personally contribute to making our worship a powerful declaration in the spiritual realm? [08:00]
2. In what ways have you tried to create your own identity through achievements or failures? How can you shift your mindset to fully receive your identity in Christ? [09:36]
3. Considering the threefold aspect of salvation, what areas of your life do you see God actively working on right now? How can you cooperate with His sanctifying work? [12:44]
4. How often do you engage with the Word of God? What changes can you make to ensure you are not just hearing the Word but also applying it in your life? [49:58]
5. Identify a specific area where you experience the internal battle between the flesh and the Spirit. What steps can you take this week to walk more by the Spirit in that area? [33:13]
6. Think of a recent situation where you felt insecure about your salvation. How can the assurance of your identity in Christ and the finished work of Jesus bring you peace and confidence? [21:23]
7. How can you remind yourself daily of who you are in Christ to avoid forgetting your true identity, as described in James 1:22-25? What practical steps can you take to keep this truth at the forefront of your mind? [46:54]
Devotional
Day 1: Unveiling the Cosmic Impact of Church Gatherings
When believers gather, it is not just a routine meeting but a significant spiritual event that impacts the cosmos. Each assembly is a declaration of God's glory, a moment where the spiritual realm is influenced by the collective worship and prayers of God's people. This understanding elevates the importance of every church service, transforming it from a mere social gathering to a powerful spiritual warfare event. The church, no matter its size or location, becomes a beacon of divine light and truth in a world that often overlooks its value. This perspective should inspire and motivate believers to participate actively and expectantly in church gatherings, recognizing their role in a larger divine narrative. [08:00]
Ephesians 3:10-11, "so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Reflection: How does your participation in church gatherings change when you consider them as acts of spiritual warfare and declarations in the spiritual realm?
Day 2: Embracing Our God-Given Identity
Our identity in Christ is not something we achieve through our efforts or successes; it is a divine gift bestowed upon us by God. This fundamental truth frees us from the burden of trying to prove our worth through achievements or fearing failure. Understanding that our identity is received, not achieved, allows believers to live out their true purpose and embrace the fullness of life that Christ offers. This shift in perspective is crucial for personal spiritual growth and for fostering a healthy, supportive community within the church. [09:36]
1 Peter 2:9-10, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: In what ways have you tried to earn your identity through achievements, and how can you start living out your true identity in Christ today?
Day 3: Understanding the Comprehensive Nature of Salvation
Salvation is a dynamic and ongoing process that encompasses past, present, and future aspects—justification, sanctification, and glorification. This comprehensive view helps believers understand that while they are secure in Christ's finished work on the cross, they are also actively participating in a process of spiritual growth and transformation. This journey of becoming more like Christ involves daily decisions and actions that reflect one's faith and commitment to God's will. [12:44]
Philippians 2:12-13, "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, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
Reflection: What are some practical ways you can actively participate in your ongoing process of salvation today?
Day 4: The Transformative Power of God's Word
The Word of God is alive and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart, revealing our true selves before God. This powerful characteristic of God's Word calls for not just hearing but actively applying its truths to our lives. By continuously engaging with Scripture, believers allow God's Word to transform them from the inside out, aligning their thoughts and actions with God's desires. [49:58]
Hebrews 4:12-13, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
Reflection: What specific part of Scripture have you read recently that you need to apply more diligently in your life?
Day 5: Navigating the Internal Battle for Spiritual Growth
The Christian life involves a continual internal battle between the flesh and the Spirit. This struggle is a daily reality that requires deliberate choices to walk by the Spirit, thereby overcoming the desires of the flesh. This process of sanctification is essential for spiritual growth, as it transforms believers into the image of Christ. Understanding and navigating this tension is crucial for personal holiness and effective Christian living. [33:13]
Galatians 5:16-17, "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
Reflection: What are the desires of the flesh you need to overcome today, and how can you actively choose to walk by the Spirit in those areas?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God's word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing through the division of soul and spirit of joints and marrow and the discerning our thoughts and intentions of our hearts. We need God's word to be written onto our heart God's word tells us who you are. God's word. We need God's word spoken over us and guys, we need to lay a hold of it." [54:03]
2. "This is what James is saying of being doers of the word. What he is saying is we are to lay a hold of the word of God over our lives. We're to lay a hold of it. To be a doer of the word and not just hearers. Not just a hearer only. It isn't about willpower. James never says that. It isn't about just adjusting your behavior." [47:57]
3. "And we're also promised a new heaven and a new earth. Romans 8.23 says this, and not only the creation, but we ourselves who have the first fruits of the spirit, we ourselves, us, have the first fruits of the spirit grown inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons. And the redemption of our bodies. That is what we can look to. That is our future." [40:38]
### Quotes for Members
1. "When we gather together and when we worship, we're not just singing songs. And also, we're not just doing it for those of us in the room, which is important. When we gather together, I believe we get ministered to. We're encouraged. We sense his presence. There's a building up that happens. But when we come together and we worship, we are declaring and warring into the spiritual powers and authorities of this world." [08:00]
2. "Our spirits have been saved. Our souls are being transformed. And our bodies will one day be made new. That is that beautiful tension between have been saved, being saved, will be saved, is that our spirits have been saved, regenerated, renewed, made alive. Our souls, our souls are being transformed into the image of our king and our bodies will one day be made new." [40:38]
3. "There is a war that is battling within us, and that's between the desires of the Spirit and the will, and the desires of the Spirit and the desires of our soul, the desires of our flesh, the desires of our will, because God has moved us from being soul-led beings to Spirit-led beings, and the soul doesn't want to relinquish its control very easily." [33:13]
4. "Sharper than any two-edged sword. Listen to this. Piercing through the division of soul and spirit. Of joints and marrow and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. The word of God is living and active. The New Living Translation says cutting between soul and spirit. The Amplified says this. Penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit." [50:37]
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