Embracing Transformation: Sacred Leadership and New Life
Summary
Transitions in leadership are sacred moments that propel God's plans forward. At Shiloh Church, we honor leaders like Mike and Merle Miller, and Pastors James and Angie Archie, who have served faithfully for decades. Their transition is not an end but a new beginning, as they continue to serve in different capacities. This reflects the biblical pattern of leadership transitions, such as Moses to Joshua and Elijah to Elisha, where God uses these moments to ensure His work continues. We celebrate their legacy and pray for their continued influence and health in this new season.
In John 3, we explore the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee seeking truth. Jesus emphasizes that entering the kingdom of God requires being born again, a transformation that goes beyond religious rituals. This transformation is not about what we do but who we believe in. It's a call to move from the "Before Christ" (BC) version of ourselves to the "After Christ" (AC) version, embracing a new life in Jesus.
Being born again means developing new appetites and setting new boundaries. Our old self, the BC version, is crucified with Christ, and we are called to live as new creations. This transformation is not just a change but a complete renewal, where our desires align with God's will. We must be intentional about feeding our spirit, as what we feed grows stronger. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in the light, exposing darkness and leading us to truth.
The journey of faith is not without challenges, but it's about stepping into the light and allowing Jesus to transform us. We are called to set boundaries that protect our spiritual growth and surround ourselves with accountability. As we obey God, His voice becomes clearer, and we gain momentum in our spiritual journey. This transformation is a testament to God's love, as we change not to earn His love but because we are already loved.
Key Takeaways:
- Sacred Transitions: Leadership transitions, like those of the Millers and Archies, are sacred moments that God uses to propel His plans forward. These transitions are not just about leadership but ensuring the continuation of God's work. They remind us of biblical examples where God used transitions to fulfill His purposes. [51:17]
- Born Again Transformation: Entering the kingdom of God requires being born again, a transformation that goes beyond religious rituals. It's about moving from the BC version of ourselves to the AC version, embracing a new life in Jesus. This transformation is not about what we do but who we believe in. [01:01:47]
- New Appetites and Boundaries: Being born again means developing new appetites and setting new boundaries. Our old self is crucified with Christ, and we are called to live as new creations. This transformation aligns our desires with God's will, and we must be intentional about feeding our spirit. [01:14:35]
- Empowered by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in the light, exposing darkness and leading us to truth. As we obey God, His voice becomes clearer, and we gain momentum in our spiritual journey. This empowerment is a testament to God's love, as we change because we are already loved. [01:47:40]
- Living in the Light: The journey of faith is about stepping into the light and allowing Jesus to transform us. We are called to set boundaries that protect our spiritual growth and surround ourselves with accountability. This transformation is a complete renewal, where our desires align with God's will. [01:48:54]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[51:17] - Honoring Leaders
[01:01:47] - Born Again Transformation
[01:06:23] - Don't Let the BC You In
[01:09:28] - Carrying Purpose
[01:14:35] - New Appetites and Boundaries
[01:17:36] - Feeding Your Spirit
[01:19:01] - Light vs. Darkness
[01:22:41] - Developing New Appetites
[01:26:04] - The Power of God's Word
[01:28:24] - Setting New Boundaries
[01:33:54] - Embracing Transformation
[01:40:29] - Overcoming the Past
[01:47:40] - Empowered by the Holy Spirit
[01:48:54] - Living in the Light
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- John 3:1-21
- Romans 6:6
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
---
Observation Questions:
1. What does Jesus tell Nicodemus is necessary to enter the kingdom of God? How does Nicodemus react to this teaching? [01:01:47]
2. How does the sermon describe the transition from the "Before Christ" (BC) version of ourselves to the "After Christ" (AC) version? [01:06:23]
3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the transformation process according to the sermon? [01:47:40]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the concept of setting new boundaries in our spiritual journey? [01:28:24]
---
Interpretation Questions:
1. In what ways does the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus challenge the traditional religious views of the time? How might this apply to modern religious practices? [01:01:47]
2. The sermon mentions that being born again involves developing new appetites and setting new boundaries. How does this concept relate to the idea of sanctification in the Christian life? [01:14:35]
3. How does the sermon explain the importance of accountability in maintaining spiritual growth and transformation? [01:28:24]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between obedience to God and hearing His voice more clearly? [01:47:40]
---
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent leadership transition you have experienced, either in church or elsewhere. How did it impact your spiritual journey, and what lessons can you draw from it about God's plan for your life? [51:17]
2. Consider your own "BC" and "AC" versions. What specific changes have you noticed in your life since embracing faith in Christ? How can you continue to nurture these changes? [01:06:23]
3. Identify one area in your life where you need to set new boundaries to protect your spiritual growth. What practical steps can you take this week to establish these boundaries? [01:28:24]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of feeding your spirit. What are some specific ways you can feed your spirit daily, and how can you make this a consistent practice? [01:14:35]
5. Think about a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance in the future? [01:47:40]
6. The sermon discusses the importance of living in the light and allowing Jesus to transform us. What is one area of darkness in your life that you need to bring into the light, and how can you take steps to do so this week? [01:48:54]
7. How can you create a support system or accountability group to help you stay on track with your spiritual goals? What qualities should you look for in the people you choose to surround yourself with? [01:28:24]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
Day 1: Sacred Transitions in Leadership
Leadership transitions are sacred moments that God uses to propel His plans forward. These transitions, like those of the Millers and Archies, are not just about leadership changes but ensuring the continuation of God's work. They remind us of biblical examples where God used transitions to fulfill His purposes, such as the transition from Moses to Joshua and Elijah to Elisha. These moments are opportunities for growth and renewal, both for the leaders and the community they serve. As we honor those who have served faithfully, we also look forward to the new beginnings that God has in store. [51:17]
"Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you." (Joshua 1:6-7 ESV)
Reflection: Think of a leadership transition you have experienced or witnessed. How did it impact your faith journey, and how can you support new leaders in your community today?
Day 2: Born Again Transformation
Entering the kingdom of God requires being born again, a transformation that goes beyond religious rituals. This transformation is about moving from the "Before Christ" (BC) version of ourselves to the "After Christ" (AC) version, embracing a new life in Jesus. It is not about what we do but who we believe in. This new birth is a call to a deeper relationship with Christ, where our identity is rooted in Him, and our lives reflect His love and grace. It is a journey of faith that requires us to let go of our old selves and embrace the new creation we are in Christ. [01:01:47]
"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 aspects of your life still reflect the "Before Christ" version of yourself? How can you intentionally embrace the "After Christ" transformation today?
Day 3: Developing New Appetites and Boundaries
Being born again means developing new appetites and setting new boundaries. Our old self is crucified with Christ, and we are called to live as new creations. This transformation aligns our desires with God's will, and we must be intentional about feeding our spirit. As we cultivate new appetites, we learn to set boundaries that protect our spiritual growth and help us live in alignment with God's purposes. This requires a conscious effort to choose what nourishes our spirit and to avoid what hinders our relationship with God. [01:14:35]
"Put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." (Ephesians 4:24 ESV)
Reflection: What new appetites do you need to cultivate in your life? What boundaries can you set to protect your spiritual growth?
Day 4: Empowered by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in the light, exposing darkness and leading us to truth. As we obey God, His voice becomes clearer, and we gain momentum in our spiritual journey. This empowerment is a testament to God's love, as we change not to earn His love but because we are already loved. The Holy Spirit guides us in our transformation, helping us to live in a way that reflects God's love and truth. It is through His power that we can overcome the challenges we face and live as witnesses of His grace. [01:47:40]
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8 ESV)
Reflection: How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit's power in your daily life? What steps can you take to be a witness of His love and truth today?
Day 5: Living in the Light
The journey of faith is about stepping into the light and allowing Jesus to transform us. We are called to set boundaries that protect our spiritual growth and surround ourselves with accountability. This transformation is a complete renewal, where our desires align with God's will. Living in the light means being transparent with God and others, allowing His truth to guide our actions and decisions. It is a commitment to walk in His ways and to let His light shine through us in every aspect of our lives. [01:48:54]
"For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light." (Ephesians 5:8 ESV)
Reflection: What areas of your life need to be brought into the light? How can you create an environment of accountability and transparency in your spiritual journey?
Quotes
While they're continuing to serve as elders and ministers and pastors here at Shiloh, they're transitioning out of a present area of ministry, and we want to celebrate and recognize their servant hearts. And I believe transitions are a sacred moment. They're very scriptural in the Bible, from Moses handing the mantle to Joshua and Elijah passing his prophetic mission to Elijah and even Jesus commissioning his disciples to carry forward his ministry. We see God uses these moments to propel his plans forward. [00:46:23] (40 seconds)
So Nicodemus, he comes creeping in in the night. But Jesus doesn't play the religious card that Nicodemus wants to play. He goes straight to the heart of the matter. And Nicodemus, he tells him, the only way to enter the kingdom of God is to be born again. And Nicodemus is baffled, and he declares, how is this possible? And Jesus makes it clear that it's not about what you do, but who you believe in. [01:01:15] (29 seconds)
We're not saved by our own efforts. We're not saved by good works. We're not saved by our status. It's all through grace and our faith in Jesus Christ. And that's how we're born again. That's how we are born of God. And I believe today, even as we're looking at the rest of this story, the Lord wants me to pivot. And he wants us to look at what happens in our lives after we've been born again, after we've been born of God. [01:02:11] (32 seconds)
It goes on to say in verse 18, Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of God's own. This is the verdict. Light has come into the world, but people love darkness instead of light, because of their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. [01:04:04] (34 seconds)
And when you give your life to Jesus, there's something you're carrying. You're carrying something. You're carrying purpose. You're carrying destiny. You're carrying a calling. You're carrying God's will. And the moment you start carrying something, you can expect resistance. You can expect opposition. That's why there's a war going on inside of you. It's not just around you. It's BCU and ACU are battling for control of your soul. [01:09:46] (28 seconds)
Jesus said, you'll know who my disciples are by their fruit. Meaning when we put our belief in Jesus, we're sowing some good seeds in fertile ground and our lives are going to produce something. I like how Apostle Paul puts it in Romans 6 .6. For you know the old self was crucified, with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with that we no longer be slaves to sin paul is saying that bcu has been crucified with christ so leave bcu in the grave and move forward in 2025. [01:11:01] (42 seconds)
And when the truth of Jesus shines, it forces us to confront what's inside of us. We live in a nation that's obsessed with spirituality. You can thank God on the Grammys. You could talk about energy and the universe and Ouija boards and tarot cards and voodoo and Santeria and mysticism and new age spirituality. You better watch it because that new age stuff is trying to leak into the church. [01:18:00] (31 seconds)
And today I'm here to encourage you when you allow the Holy Spirit to transform you. You develop new appetites. You set new boundaries. You discover that new momentum that only comes from heaven. And that's when everything begins to change. 1 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 5, 17 says, therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. All things are passed away. Behold, everything becomes new. [01:46:32] (33 seconds)
And as the new you steps into faith, you're not fighting alone. The Holy Spirit fights battles with you. He's a counselor. He's a comforter. See, the father sent the son, but the son, he sent the son. He sent the son. He sent the son. He sent the son. He sent the son. He sent the son. He sent the Holy Spirit. And when you step into the night, the Holy Spirit will check on you. He'll say, where are you going? [01:47:32] (21 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?