Embracing the Journey of Sanctification Together
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound theme of sanctification, emphasizing the ongoing journey of being made holy and set apart for God's purposes. We began by anchoring ourselves in Psalm 61, acknowledging God as our refuge and strong tower. This set the tone for a deep dive into 1 Thessalonians 5, where we examined how we are called to live as followers of Christ. The essence of sanctification is a gradual purification from sin and a progressive spiritual growth that should be evident in the life of every believer. This process is not instantaneous but requires a steadfast commitment to allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out.
We discussed the importance of showing up in various aspects of our lives, including our church community, personal relationships, and even in conflict. The way we engage with others and the world around us should reflect the inner work of sanctification. We are called to honor, respect, and love one another wholeheartedly, living peacefully and joyfully, always in prayer and gratitude. This is not just a Sunday morning faith but a daily commitment to embodying the teachings of Christ in every area of our lives.
The sermon also highlighted the significance of our commitment to Christ, which should permeate every aspect of our existence. Our faith is not a compartmentalized part of our lives but the foundation upon which everything else is built. We are encouraged to be intentional in inviting the Holy Spirit, the authority of Scripture, and the accountability of the faith community to guide us in our journey of sanctification.
Finally, we were reminded that the evidence of our sanctification should be visible in how we show up in the world. Our lives should be a testament to the transformative power of Christ, marked by genuine love, fervent service, and a commitment to living out the gospel in every interaction.
Key Takeaways:
1. Sanctification as a Journey: Sanctification is a gradual process of being made holy, requiring patience and perseverance. It involves a continuous purification from sin and spiritual growth, reminding us that we are always in the process of becoming more like Christ. This journey demands our active participation and reliance on the Holy Spirit. [43:30]
2. The Importance of Community: How we show up in our church community matters. We are called to honor, respect, and love one another, living peacefully and supporting each other in our faith journey. This communal aspect of faith is crucial for our growth and sanctification. [54:06]
3. Conflict Resolution: As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, moving first in reconciliation and resolving conflicts with soft hearts. This reflects the nature of God, who moved first to reconcile us to Himself through Jesus. [59:21]
4. Commitment to Christ: Our commitment to Jesus should be evident in every area of our lives. It is not just an item on a checklist but the foundation of our existence. This commitment influences how we engage with the world and live out our faith daily. [01:04:21]
5. Evidence of Transformation: The inner work of sanctification should be visible in our actions and interactions. Our lives should reflect the transformative power of Christ, marked by love, service, and a commitment to living out the gospel. [01:11:13]
Youtube Chapters:
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [05:09] - Psalm 61: Our Refuge
- [27:55] - Worship and Praise
- [30:23] - Overcoming Fear and Disappointment
- [31:45] - Breakthrough and Hardened Hearts
- [35:55] - God's Proximity and Love
- [37:39] - Importance of Scripture and Prayer
- [39:56] - Lord of It All Series Conclusion
- [40:16] - 1 Thessalonians 5: Living in Community
- [43:10] - Understanding Sanctification
- [46:14] - The Process of Being Made Perfect
- [47:19] - Inside-Out Transformation
- [52:38] - Evidence of Sanctification
- [56:22] - Showing Up in Community
- [59:00] - Conflict Resolution
- [01:04:21] - Commitment to Christ
- [01:11:13] - Congregational Participation
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Sanctification and Community
Bible Reading:
- Psalm 61:1-4
- 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24
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Observation Questions:
1. In Psalm 61, what imagery is used to describe God, and how does this set the tone for understanding sanctification? [05:09]
2. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24, what are some specific instructions Paul gives to the church regarding their behavior and attitudes?
3. How does the sermon describe the process of sanctification, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this process? [43:30]
4. What are the key characteristics of how believers should "show up" in their community, as discussed in the sermon? [52:38]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the imagery of God as a "strong tower" in Psalm 61 influence a believer's understanding of God's role in their sanctification journey?
2. What might be the significance of Paul's instruction to "always be joyful, never stop praying, and be thankful in all circumstances" in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18? How does this relate to the concept of sanctification?
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of community in the sanctification process. How does being part of a faith community support or challenge one's spiritual growth? [54:06]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that conflict resolution is a reflection of God's nature, and how does this relate to the believer's journey of sanctification? [59:21]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you felt overwhelmed. How can the imagery of God as a "strong tower" from Psalm 61 provide comfort and guidance in similar future situations? [05:09]
2. Consider your current involvement in your church community. How can you be more intentional in showing honor, respect, and love to others, as instructed in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13? [54:06]
3. Think about a conflict you are currently facing. How can you apply the ABCs of conflict resolution (Accept responsibility, Believe the best, Communicate directly) to move towards reconciliation? [01:01:34]
4. Identify one area of your life where your commitment to Christ could be more evident. What practical steps can you take this week to ensure your faith is the foundation of your actions and decisions? [01:04:21]
5. The sermon challenges believers to show evidence of their sanctification in daily life. What is one specific way you can demonstrate the transformative power of Christ in your interactions this week? [01:11:13]
6. Reflect on your prayer life. How can you incorporate the practice of "never stop praying" into your daily routine, and what impact do you hope this will have on your spiritual growth? [42:10]
7. How can you actively participate in your faith community to support others in their journey of sanctification, and what role do you see yourself playing in fostering a spirit of peace and hospitality? [56:22]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: The Journey of Sanctification
Sanctification is a lifelong journey of being made holy, requiring patience and perseverance. It involves a continuous purification from sin and spiritual growth, reminding us that we are always in the process of becoming more like Christ. This journey demands our active participation and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As believers, we are called to embrace this process, understanding that it is not instantaneous but a gradual transformation. The Holy Spirit works within us, guiding us to reflect Christ's character more each day. This journey is marked by moments of challenge and growth, where our faith is tested and strengthened. [43:30]
"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel the Holy Spirit is prompting you to grow in holiness? How can you actively participate in this transformation today?
Day 2: Community as a Crucible for Growth
The way we show up in our church community matters significantly. We are called to honor, respect, and love one another, living peacefully and supporting each other in our faith journey. This communal aspect of faith is crucial for our growth and sanctification. In community, we find encouragement, accountability, and opportunities to practice the love and grace that Christ has shown us. It is within these relationships that we learn to bear one another's burdens and celebrate each other's victories. Our interactions within the community should reflect the inner work of sanctification, as we strive to embody Christ's teachings in our relationships. [54:06]
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection: How can you intentionally contribute to the spiritual growth of someone in your church community this week? What specific action can you take to encourage or support them?
Day 3: Peacemaking as a Reflection of God's Nature
As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, moving first in reconciliation and resolving conflicts with soft hearts. This reflects the nature of God, who moved first to reconcile us to Himself through Jesus. In our interactions, we should strive to embody the peace and love that Christ demonstrated, seeking to resolve conflicts with humility and grace. This requires us to approach disagreements with a willingness to listen and understand, prioritizing reconciliation over being right. By doing so, we reflect the heart of God and contribute to a culture of peace and unity within our communities. [59:21]
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." (Matthew 5:9, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a conflict or tension in your life. How can you take the first step towards reconciliation, reflecting God's love and peace in this situation?
Day 4: Commitment to Christ as the Foundation of Life
Our commitment to Jesus should be evident in every area of our lives. It is not just an item on a checklist but the foundation of our existence. This commitment influences how we engage with the world and live out our faith daily. As believers, we are called to integrate our faith into every aspect of our lives, allowing it to shape our decisions, relationships, and actions. This requires intentionality and a willingness to surrender our desires to align with God's will. Our commitment to Christ should be the driving force behind how we live, guiding us to reflect His love and truth in all we do. [01:04:21]
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:17, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from fully committing to Christ? What steps can you take to surrender this area to Him today?
Day 5: Living as Evidence of Transformation
The inner work of sanctification should be visible in our actions and interactions. Our lives should reflect the transformative power of Christ, marked by love, service, and a commitment to living out the gospel. As we grow in our faith, the changes within us should be evident to those around us, serving as a testament to the work of the Holy Spirit. This transformation is not just for our benefit but serves as a witness to the world of God's love and power. We are called to live in a way that draws others to Christ, demonstrating the impact of His grace in our lives. [01:11:13]
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, ESV)
Reflection: How can your actions today serve as a testament to the transformative power of Christ in your life? What specific act of love or service can you offer to someone in need?
Quotes
1. "I want to give you permission to believe again. I want to give you permission to believe that He is faithful and that He is more than enough. I want to give you permission to lean in to the everlasting love of the Father. And you're going to laugh, but this is the picture I saw. Like the Kool-Aid guy breaking through the wall. I know, it's silly, but I'll just leave it with you. That there's like this, it's like almost like hilarity to how God wants to break through that wall and soften hearts today." [33:05] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are either intentionally inviting the Holy Spirit, the authority of Scripture, and the life and accountability of the family of faith to shepherd us as a disciplined follower of Christ, or we are not. And if you are frustrated in this season of surrender, can I ask you to take inventory of your own life, spirit, soul, and body, and just ask, how am I intentionally inviting the Holy Spirit, the authority of Scripture, and the life and accountability of the family of faith to shepherd me? Because no one can do that work for you." [44:31] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Good news, Jesus didn't submit to a Roman crucifixion to temporarily modify some sinful behavior in your life. He died to crucify and to bury our sin nature, and stepped out of a tomb to raise us back into new life. No longer slaves to the power of sin, but set free as children of God. If you were in the room last week, we talked about how we're meant to be renewed in the spirit of our mind." [46:30] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The work that God is doing in your life is an inside-out work, not an outside-in work. It starts within our inner man, and it's meant to flow out in terms of how we live. We are dedicated disciples of Jesus when we have the practice of abiding in the Word of Christ. The Word of Christ truly becomes the truth that we know and that we are as sons, as daughters, and only the truth that we're dedicated and committed to learning and knowing has the power to set us free." [47:19] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Your commitment to Christ, however, sits over all of these things and impacts all of these things. Your commitment to Jesus doesn't show up as an item on the list. It's the house that the list lives in. Your surrender to Jesus isn't like a piece of your life. He's Lord of it all. How I surrender to Christ, how I show up in my commitment to Jesus impacts how I show up in my marriage. Impacts how I show up in my workplace. Impacts how I show up in my friendships, in my small group, in my workplace, in my high school." [01:04:21] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "How we show up as people of faith really, really matters. Paul's challenge to the early church rings true for us here in this room today. Show up, daughter. Show up, son. And how you show up. Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way. May your whole being. Your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless. Until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen. For he who calls you is faithful." [01:15:01] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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