Embracing Peace and Transformation Through Christ's Covenant
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Lake Forest Church! Today, we gathered to reflect on the troubling news of the attempted assassination of former President Trump. Such events remind us of the ever-present spirit of violence in our world, akin to the story of Cain and Abel. As Christians, we are called to resist this spirit and instead commit to peace, focus on the Kingdom of God, and recommit to the gospel at the center of our lives.
We delved into Hebrews chapter 8, where the author emphasizes the superiority of Jesus as our High Priest. Unlike the old covenant, which relied on external rituals and sacrifices, the new covenant through Jesus offers inward transformation, personal relationship with God, and perpetual forgiveness of sins. Jesus' sacrifice is once for all, making the old covenant obsolete.
The new covenant promises three key things: inward transformation, personal relationship, and forgiveness of sins. God writes His laws on our hearts and minds, transforming our desires to align with His. This personal relationship means we can know God intimately, not just as a distant deity. Finally, Jesus' sacrifice ensures our sins are forgiven—past, present, and future—freeing us from guilt and shame.
As we partake in communion, let us reflect on these promises and recommit ourselves to living out the gospel in our daily lives. May we be beacons of hope, peace, and love in a world that desperately needs it.
### Key Takeaways
1. Commitment to Peace: In a world rife with political violence and divisive rhetoric, Christians are called to be peacemakers. Our words and actions should reflect the peace of Christ, resisting the temptation to engage in violent partisanship. This commitment to peace is a testament to our trust in God's sovereign plans and His eternal Kingdom. [25:22]
2. Focus on the Kingdom of God: Our primary allegiance is to the Kingdom of Heaven, not to any earthly political party. While our political commitments matter, they must always take a back seat to our identity as followers of Jesus. This focus helps us avoid the idolatry of politics and keeps our eyes on the eternal blessings that come from Christ alone. [26:50]
3. Recommitment to the Gospel: The gospel should be at the center of our lives, influencing how we spend our time, energy, and resources. By investing in the spread of the good news of Jesus, we combat the darkness in our hearts and communities. This recommitment involves active participation in church and missions, ensuring that the gospel remains preeminent in our lives. [28:20]
4. Inward Transformation: The new covenant promises that God will write His laws on our hearts and minds, transforming our desires to align with His. This inward transformation is a work of grace, making us willing to follow and worship God wholeheartedly. It moves us beyond mere external observance to a deep, personal change that reflects Christ's character. [51:28]
5. Perpetual Forgiveness: Jesus' sacrifice offers complete forgiveness of sins—past, present, and future. This perpetual forgiveness frees us from the cycle of guilt and shame, allowing us to live in the righteousness of Christ. By faith, we are seen as righteous before God, not because of our deeds, but because of Jesus' perfect sacrifice. [58:29]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[23:38] - Reflecting on Political Violence
[25:22] - Commitment to Peace
[26:50] - Focus on the Kingdom of God
[28:20] - Recommitment to the Gospel
[32:39] - Introduction to Hebrews 8
[34:05] - Jesus as the Better High Priest
[37:43] - The Universality of Priesthood and Sacrifice
[39:44] - Jesus as the Ultimate Sacrifice
[43:20] - The New Covenant's Better Promises
[51:28] - Inward Transformation
[55:23] - Personal Relationship with God
[58:29] - Perpetual Forgiveness
[01:04:03] - Communion
[01:17:16] - Dismissal and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 8:1-13
- Genesis 4:1-16 (Story of Cain and Abel)
- Jeremiah 31:31-34
### Observation Questions
1. What are the three key promises of the new covenant mentioned in Hebrews 8? ([43:20])
2. How does the story of Cain and Abel relate to the spirit of violence discussed in the sermon? ([23:38])
3. According to the sermon, what are the three practices Christians should adopt in a highly partisan and politicized time? ([25:22])
4. What does the author of Hebrews mean when he says Jesus "sat down" after making the sacrifice? ([41:10])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the new covenant's promise of inward transformation differ from the old covenant's focus on external rituals? ([51:28])
2. What does it mean to have a personal relationship with God under the new covenant, and how is this different from the old covenant? ([55:23])
3. How does the perpetual forgiveness offered by Jesus' sacrifice impact a believer's daily life and sense of guilt or shame? ([58:29])
4. In what ways can focusing on the Kingdom of God help Christians avoid the idolatry of politics? ([26:50])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you have engaged in violent rhetoric or divisive behavior? How can you commit to being a peacemaker in those situations? ([25:22])
2. How can you practically focus more on the Kingdom of God in your daily life, especially during politically charged times? ([26:50])
3. What steps can you take to recommit to the gospel at the center of your life? Consider your time, energy, and resources. ([28:20])
4. Identify one area in your life where you need inward transformation. How can you cooperate with the Holy Spirit to align your desires with God's? ([51:28])
5. How can you cultivate a more personal relationship with God? What specific actions can you take to make your relationship with Him more intimate and less impersonal? ([55:23])
6. Reflect on a past sin that still brings you guilt or shame. How can you embrace the perpetual forgiveness offered by Jesus to free yourself from that burden? ([58:29])
7. Think of a recent situation where you were tempted to prioritize political allegiance over your identity as a follower of Jesus. How can you handle similar situations differently in the future? ([26:50])
Devotional
Day 1: Commitment to Peace
In a world rife with political violence and divisive rhetoric, Christians are called to be peacemakers. Our words and actions should reflect the peace of Christ, resisting the temptation to engage in violent partisanship. This commitment to peace is a testament to our trust in God's sovereign plans and His eternal Kingdom. As we navigate through turbulent times, we must remember that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ, who calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. By embodying peace, we become living testimonies of the transformative power of the gospel.
In the story of Cain and Abel, we see the destructive power of unchecked anger and jealousy. Cain's inability to master his emotions led to the first act of violence recorded in the Bible. As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. We must actively resist the spirit of violence and instead, commit to being agents of peace in our communities. This means speaking words of kindness, showing compassion, and seeking reconciliation in all our interactions. [25:22]
Romans 12:18-19 (ESV): "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'"
Reflection: Think of a recent conflict or disagreement you had. How can you take steps today to bring peace and reconciliation to that situation?
Day 2: Focus on the Kingdom of God
Our primary allegiance is to the Kingdom of Heaven, not to any earthly political party. While our political commitments matter, they must always take a back seat to our identity as followers of Jesus. This focus helps us avoid the idolatry of politics and keeps our eyes on the eternal blessings that come from Christ alone. In a world where political ideologies often clash, it is crucial for Christians to remember that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven.
The Kingdom of God is not of this world, and its values often stand in stark contrast to the values of earthly kingdoms. Jesus taught us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all other things will be added to us. This means prioritizing our spiritual growth, our relationship with God, and our commitment to His mission above all else. By doing so, we align our lives with God's eternal purposes and experience the peace and joy that come from living under His rule. [26:50]
Colossians 3:1-2 (ESV): "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Reflection: In what ways have you allowed political or social issues to overshadow your commitment to the Kingdom of God? How can you refocus your priorities today?
Day 3: Recommitment to the Gospel
The gospel should be at the center of our lives, influencing how we spend our time, energy, and resources. By investing in the spread of the good news of Jesus, we combat the darkness in our hearts and communities. This recommitment involves active participation in church and missions, ensuring that the gospel remains preeminent in our lives. The gospel is not just a message we believe; it is a way of life that transforms every aspect of our existence.
Living out the gospel means embodying the love, grace, and truth of Jesus in our daily interactions. It means being intentional about sharing the good news with others, both through our words and our actions. As we recommit to the gospel, we are reminded of the incredible sacrifice Jesus made for us and the transformative power of His resurrection. This recommitment calls us to a life of service, compassion, and unwavering faith in the face of challenges. [28:20]
2 Corinthians 5:20-21 (ESV): "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Reflection: How can you actively share the gospel in your community this week? What specific steps can you take to ensure the gospel remains central in your life?
Day 4: Inward Transformation
The new covenant promises that God will write His laws on our hearts and minds, transforming our desires to align with His. This inward transformation is a work of grace, making us willing to follow and worship God wholeheartedly. It moves us beyond mere external observance to a deep, personal change that reflects Christ's character. True transformation begins from within and manifests in our actions, attitudes, and relationships.
Inward transformation is a continuous process that requires our cooperation with the Holy Spirit. As we spend time in prayer, study God's Word, and engage in spiritual disciplines, we open ourselves to the transformative work of God in our lives. This transformation is not about striving to be better on our own but about allowing God's grace to change us from the inside out. As we are transformed, we become more like Christ, displaying His love, humility, and righteousness in all we do. [51:28]
Ezekiel 36:26-27 (ESV): "And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need God's transformative power? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to work in those areas today?
Day 5: Perpetual Forgiveness
Jesus' sacrifice offers complete forgiveness of sins—past, present, and future. This perpetual forgiveness frees us from the cycle of guilt and shame, allowing us to live in the righteousness of Christ. By faith, we are seen as righteous before God, not because of our deeds, but because of Jesus' perfect sacrifice. Understanding and accepting this forgiveness is crucial for our spiritual growth and freedom.
Perpetual forgiveness means that we no longer have to carry the burden of our past mistakes. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was sufficient to cover all our sins, and His resurrection assures us of our new life in Him. This forgiveness is not a license to sin but an invitation to live in the freedom and righteousness that Christ provides. As we embrace this truth, we are empowered to forgive others and extend the same grace that we have received. [58:29]
Hebrews 10:17-18 (ESV): "Then he adds, 'I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.' Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin."
Reflection: Is there a sin or past mistake that you are struggling to let go of? How can you embrace the forgiveness that Jesus offers and live in the freedom of His grace today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The people of God uniquely understand the human kingdom's rise and fall. We're a people of the book. We know the story over and over, and we know why God is so important to us. God had to intrude into human history, and while he will one day bring it to an end, the kingdom of heaven alone is eternal. Knowing this, we're called to be a unique people of peace, filled with trust in God's sovereign plans." [25:22] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Our citizenship is in heaven, which means our partisan commitments, which matter, whatever country we're a citizen of, by God's grace, most of us in this room are citizens of the United States of America. But our party commitments to Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, or Independent, which I think is the largest registration in this state, that commitment always takes a back seat to our identification as followers of Jesus." [26:50] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "May I invite you to a recommitment to the gospel, the good news of Jesus at the center of your life, to invest your and my time, energy, and money into the spread of the good news of Jesus Christ against the heart of darkness in every human and every human community. This means that one of the ways that we keep our hope in the gospel is we participate in church with our time and our energy and our money so that the gospel spreads even more." [28:20] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Let us continue to do this to be beacons of hope, a city set on a hill, a light in the darkness, even as we speak words of peace to those around us." [29:44] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus is a new kind of priest, a once for all high priest. He's offered a better sacrifice. He's offered a better sacrifice himself, the perfect sacrifice, the sinless sacrifice that can therefore atone for all sins for those who ask, not just one sin at a time. And because he is not just the perfect human sacrifice, but the divine sacrifice, this atonement is powerful for all sins for all time. For anyone who says yes, which is faith." [42:43] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "How can we resist the sin of violent partisanship as Christians? What is the uniquely Christian way to be in a highly partisan and politicized time that we live in? I thought I'd just offer a few. One practice is, frankly, during this campaign season, that we can't escape. And one practice is a commitment to peace. Another practice is a focus on the kingdom of God. And another practice is a recommitment to the gospel at the center of my life." [25:22] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God puts his word, God puts his law, God puts his heart and his animating Holy Spirit into our hearts when you say, say yes by faith. And he causes us to want what God wants. He gives us new desires. He transforms our desires through our heart and mind by the power of the grace of Jesus Christ applied to us by faith. This is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives of inner transformation." [53:19] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "In the new covenant, every individual in this new covenant, this new relationship with God knows God personally. Because that's how you come into this covenant. God reveals himself to you in your heart by gifting you with faith. Which is grace. And you say yes. And it becomes personal and it stays personal. That's by the Holy Spirit when you hear the clear preaching of the good news of Jesus and you say yes. Then you're in the covenant. Personally." [56:24] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus' sacrifice doesn't just bring you back to zero morally before God and now you're on your own power again. Morally before God. Christ's sacrifice means you are counted as righteous, past, present, and future in your identity. If by faith, Christ's sacrifice and resurrection has been applied to you, then when God the Father sees you, he doesn't see a quote unquote sinner anymore. He sees you through the lens of his son Jesus applied to you by faith." [01:00:05] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Christ is in you by faith. And it says in fact, in Corinthians, that him who knew no sin, became sin for you and for me so that you might become the righteousness of God. That's the inner transformation into the nature of Christ in your nature by the power of the Holy Spirit. But then I don't live perfectly. Christ is perfect for me. And I'm seeking to live out of his desires, but I don't always. How am I forgiven past, present, and future? Well, because the Bible also says over and over that when you put your faith in Christ, your faith in Jesus, not only is Christ in you, you are in Christ by faith, sealed by his blood as the perfect sacrifice of man and the sacrificer of God." [01:03:02] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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