From Brokenness to Freedom: Embracing God's Transformative Love

Summary

The God we worship is not distant or indifferent, but one who sees us in our brokenness and loves us relentlessly. As we gather to remember Jesus through communion, we are invited to reflect deeply on both the sorrow and the joy of his sacrifice. The cross is not just a historical event, but a living promise that reaches across centuries, connecting the prophecy of Zechariah to the reality of Christ’s death and resurrection. In this act, God poured out grace, inviting us to look upon the one who was pierced and to let that vision shape our hearts with both gratitude and mourning.

The world’s way of living is built on a fragile foundation of rules and rewards, where failure leads to punishment and exclusion. This system is unstable and leaves us teetering on the edge, always anxious about our standing. In contrast, Jesus offers a foundation rooted in relationship—first with God, then with others. In this new way, when we fail, we are not cast aside but invited into a process of repair and restoration. Jesus steps in, bearing the penalty for our failures, so that we can move beyond punishment and into healing.

This difference is not just theoretical; it is the difference between slavery and freedom. Too often, even within the church, we slip back into a rule-based mindset, forgetting the freedom that comes from relationship with Christ. True freedom is not the absence of boundaries, but the presence of the Holy Spirit within us, empowering us to live as we were created to live. Paul’s words in Romans remind us that there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ. The Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in us, giving us the power to put to death the old ways and to walk in newness of life.

Transformation is not about outward conformity to rules, but about the Spirit’s work within us. We are temples of the Holy Spirit, bought at a high price, and called to honor God not by our own strength, but by submitting our desires and lives to him. This journey is not instantaneous; we are all people in process, being changed from the inside out. Whether our transformation is dramatic or gradual, the invitation is the same: to lean on Christ, to rejoice in his work, and to walk together in grace.

Key Takeaways

- God’s love is both transcendent and personal, reaching into our deepest brokenness. The cross is not just a symbol of suffering, but a living promise that God will not give up on us, no matter how far we have fallen. This love calls us to respond with both gratitude and honest mourning as we remember the cost of our redemption. [53:47]

- The world’s foundation is built on rules, rewards, and punishments, creating anxiety and instability. In contrast, Jesus offers a foundation of relationship, where failure is met with grace and the opportunity for restoration. This shift from rules to relationship is the heart of the gospel and the only stable ground for our lives. [01:00:44]

- True freedom is not found in doing whatever we want, but in being set free from the power of sin by the Spirit of God. The illusion of control outside of Christ leads only to deeper bondage, but surrendering to the Spirit brings genuine life and peace. Freedom in Christ is the power to change, not just the permission to indulge. [01:10:40]

- Transformation in the Christian life is an inside-out process, not outside-in. Outward behaviors may change, but real change happens as the Holy Spirit works within us, making us new. We are called to submit our desires and rights to Christ, trusting that he is able to reshape us according to his design. [01:17:31]

- The journey of faith is not about instant perfection, but about ongoing dependence on Jesus. Some experience dramatic change, while others walk a slower path of growth and struggle. What matters is not the speed of transformation, but the direction—leaning on Christ, trusting his forgiveness, and rejoicing in his work in us and others. [01:20:14]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[53:27] - God’s Nearness and Communion Preparation
[54:19] - John’s Memory of the Crucifixion
[55:11] - Zechariah’s Prophecy and Its Fulfillment
[56:47] - The Message of the Pierced One
[57:18] - Sorrow and Joy in Communion
[58:09] - The Bread and the Cup
[59:12] - The World’s Foundation: Rules and Rewards
[01:00:44] - Jesus’ Foundation: Relationship and Restoration
[01:02:21] - Slavery vs. Freedom
[01:04:12] - Healing from Hurt and the Weight of the World
[01:06:08] - Romans: No Condemnation in Christ
[01:08:51] - The Power of the Spirit Over Sin
[01:10:40] - The Illusion of Control and True Freedom
[01:13:10] - Transformation: Inside Out
[01:15:24] - Temples of the Holy Spirit
[01:17:31] - Submission and True Change
[01:19:15] - Judgement, Grace, and the Journey of Transformation
[01:20:14] - Stories of Change and Ongoing Growth

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide

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### Bible Reading

1. Zechariah 12:10
“And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.”

2. Romans 8:1-14
(Key verses highlighted in the sermon)
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death... For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

3. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

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### Observation Questions

1. In Zechariah 12:10, what does God promise to pour out on the people, and what is their response when they look on “the one they have pierced”?
(see [55:59])

2. According to Romans 8:1-2, what is the result for those who are in Christ Jesus?
(see [01:06:21])

3. In the sermon, what are the two different “foundations” described for how the world and Jesus approach failure and restoration?
(see [01:00:44])

4. What does Paul say about our bodies in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, and how does the sermon connect this to the idea of transformation?
(see [01:15:24])

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does God invite his people to “look on the one they have pierced” and mourn, according to Zechariah and the sermon? What is the significance of both sorrow and gratitude in this act?
(see [55:59])

2. The sermon contrasts the world’s system of rules and rewards with Jesus’ foundation of relationship. Why is a relationship-based approach more stable and freeing, according to the message?
(see [01:00:44])

3. In Romans 8, Paul says there is “no condemnation” for those in Christ. How does this truth challenge the way we often view ourselves after failure?
(see [01:06:21])

4. The sermon says transformation is “inside out, not outside in.” What does this mean for how we approach personal change and spiritual growth?
(see [01:17:31])

---

### Application Questions

1. When you reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, do you find it easier to feel sorrow for your sin or gratitude for his love? How might you intentionally hold both emotions together during communion or personal prayer?
(see [57:18])

2. The world often operates on a “rules and rewards” system. Can you think of a time when you felt anxious or excluded because you didn’t measure up? How did that experience compare to times when you received grace and restoration?
(see [01:00:44])

3. The sermon says, “True freedom is not the absence of boundaries, but the presence of the Holy Spirit within us.” What boundaries or habits in your life feel like slavery, and which ones actually help you experience freedom in Christ?
(see [01:10:40])

4. Are there areas where you are trying to change yourself by sheer willpower or outward conformity, rather than inviting the Holy Spirit to work from the inside out? What would it look like to submit your desires and struggles to God this week?
(see [01:17:31])

5. The message reminds us that “we are all people in process.” Is there a part of your life where you feel discouraged by slow progress? How can you lean on Christ and rejoice in his ongoing work, even if change is gradual?
(see [01:20:14])

6. The sermon challenges us to see ourselves as “temples of the Holy Spirit.” What is one practical way you can honor God with your body, mind, or actions this week?
(see [01:15:24])

7. Think of someone in your life who is struggling or feels stuck. How can you offer them the same grace and invitation to restoration that Jesus offers you?
(see [01:01:48])

---

Close in prayer, asking God to help your group experience both the sorrow and joy of Christ’s sacrifice, to walk in the freedom of the Spirit, and to support one another in the ongoing journey of transformation.

Devotional

Day 1: Looking Upon the One Who Was Pierced
God calls us to reflect deeply on Jesus’ sacrificial death, holding both grief and gratitude in our hearts as we remember the cost of our redemption. In the midst of our brokenness, God’s promise through the prophet Zechariah is fulfilled in Christ, inviting us to look upon the one who was pierced and to let our hearts be moved—both to mourning for our sin and to thanksgiving for the freedom Jesus purchased. Communion is not just a ritual, but a sacred participation in the sorrow and joy of Christ’s sacrifice, reminding us that our mourning is as important as our celebration. [56:29]

Zechariah 12:10 (ESV):
“And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.”

Reflection: As you remember Jesus’ sacrifice today, what emotions arise in you—sorrow, gratitude, or both? How can you bring your honest heart before God in this moment?

Day 2: No Condemnation for Those in Christ
In Christ Jesus, there is no condemnation—freedom from guilt and shame is given to all who belong to Him, and the power of the Holy Spirit sets us free from the grip of sin and death. This new life is not about striving to keep every rule, but about living in the Spirit, who brings true life and peace, transforming us from the inside out. The Spirit’s presence means we are no longer obligated to follow our old sinful patterns, but are empowered to live as God’s beloved children, secure in His acceptance and love. [01:08:33]

Romans 8:1-2, 5-11, 13-14 (ESV):
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death... For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you... For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”

Reflection: Where do you still feel condemned or stuck in old patterns? What would it look like to invite the Holy Spirit to bring freedom and new life in that area today?

Day 3: Relationship Over Rules
God’s foundation is not built on rigid rules and fear of punishment, but on relationship—with Him and with others—where restoration and belonging are possible even when we fail. Unlike the world’s unstable system of reward and punishment, Jesus offers a culture of grace, where our mess-ups are met with mercy and the opportunity for repair, not rejection. In God’s family, you are not alone; your worth and hope are rooted in being loved and known, not in your ability to keep up with every rule. [01:01:12]

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV):
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Reflection: In what ways have you been living under the pressure of rules or fear of failure? How can you lean into relationship with Jesus and others instead of striving to earn acceptance?

Day 4: True Transformation Happens from the Inside Out
Real change in the Christian life is not about outward appearances or strict discipline, but about Christ living in us and transforming us from the inside out. We are all people in process, and God’s work in us is ongoing—He loves us as we are, but loves us too much to leave us unchanged. Instead of judging others or ourselves by external behaviors, we are called to trust the Spirit’s work in our hearts, celebrating every step of growth and restoration along the journey. [01:19:15]

2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (ESV):
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”

Reflection: Where have you been focused on outward change or judging others’ progress? How can you open yourself to the Spirit’s transforming work in your heart today?

Day 5: You Are a Temple of the Holy Spirit
When you belong to Christ, your body becomes a temple of the Holy Spirit—God Himself dwells within you, empowering you to honor Him and live out your true identity. You are not your own; you were bought with a high price, and your life is now a place where God’s presence brings holiness, strength, and purpose. This truth calls you to submit your desires and choices to Jesus, trusting that His ownership leads to true freedom and lasting transformation. [01:15:40]

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV):
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to surrender control to Jesus, trusting that His Spirit in you will bring true freedom and honor to God?

Quotes

Jesus stepped in for one thing for us spiritually. He stepped in and he bore the penalty that allows us to begin to move beyond just the punishment aspect, but to to manage and then to find repair and restoration. And frankly, this is kind of the place that I I think many of us are in where we we look to God and we say, "My life isn't great. Things aren't always right. I still struggle, but I'm in a state of repair, a state of respiration." [01:01:40]

What we see in these things is is a fundamental difference in starting point but also in function right one you kind of have to have operate under dread because what happens if things don't go right you can't come back from it but in God's economy because we have a relationship with our king because we have a relationship with a church family we're not alone and it's not about whether or not we're able to keep up with all the rules it's about what's the relationship we we have with Jesus and one another and how can we move through that? [01:02:21]

When I look at these two ways of looking at life, the the world's foundation and then God's foundation, what I see is a a a um I wanted to say dichotomy. I think that's the right word. I'm going to go with it. Dichotomy of slavery versus freedom. But but the problem in this with this uh idea of slavery versus freedom is that the church too often ends up operating in the slavery side of things too. Slavery to the rules. Do this or else. Obey or else. Where's the hope? [01:02:56]

We get to go from a powerlessness to change to having a power to change. We go from a place where those in authority and where where God himself feels so distant, aloof, the big angry white guy in the sky is so near. [01:03:40]

For a lot of us, we've grown up with a lot of hurt. Maybe it's hurt that the world laid on us. Maybe it's hurt from family or friends. Or maybe it's hurt from a a church uh a church situation or well-meaning people who who felt that they needed to add the world's provisions of rules rules rules over the gospel foundation of relationship. [01:04:09]

What I want to tell you today is that I think that whoever you are and whatever your background is and whatever your hopes are for the future that there is something here for you today. Cuz this world is full of all kinds of things that want to weigh you down, that want to want to push you down, keep you stuck. But I want to tell you today that it's not about your strength. It's about the strength of another. [01:04:36]

This is actually a a letter that a missionary uh named the Apostle Paul wrote. He writes this to the church in Rome. And this is why he says, "So now there is no condemnation." Settle on that for a second. So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. [01:06:19]

Because you belong to him, the power of the lifegiving spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. has freed you. Go down to verse five here. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think pastor you and I'm going to give this to you. Think about sinful things. [01:06:45]

Letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God's laws and it never will. That's why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. [01:07:16]

But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the spirit if you have the spirit of God living in you. And remember that those who do not have the spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all. and Christ lives within you. [01:07:40]

If through the power of the spirit, you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the spirit of God are children of God. Amen. I love this. I love this because even as followers of Jesus, it's so easy to get wrapped up in this whole thing of like, man, I just feel the temptation to go and do these things and I don't feel like I have the power. [01:08:33]

If you've submitted to the living God, to Jesus Christ in your life, there is no more condemnation. And you have put to death the power of sin in your life. and you have the spirit of God who lives within you. Will you hold on to his power and his truth and his leading? Or will you run back to the old ways because it's easier, because it's fun for a time, or because it makes you feel like you're free? [01:09:17]

Freedom is not something that we actually receive when we reject the ways of Christ, but it's something that we find when we press into them. You could put it this way. Control is an illusion. Whoever lives in you controls you. Thank you. Let me say that again. Control is an illusion. Whoever lives in you controls you. [01:10:37]

We live in a sinfilled world. We live in bodies with a sinful nature. We live as people without full control of ourselves. That's why Paul talks about being enslaved to sin, to sinful desires. You go, "Pastor Stephen, no, I'm not. I'm working on bettering myself. Things are going great. I'm all good." [01:12:14]

Jesus loves and accepts you just as you are, but he loves you too much to leave you there. It's a process of transformation, being made new. What a truth. We're not left alone to deal with the repercussions of a broken world because Jesus who died on that cross and rose again sends his Holy Spirit to live inside of us and to help us. [01:14:40]

When we accept his control, we become a temple, a place of majesty and holiness, a place where the God of heaven and earth lives and begins to set us right. Paul wrote this to the church in Corinth in the Bible. He says, "Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who lives in you and was given to you by God? [01:15:09]

Chatbot

What is the true foundation of Christian life?

How does the Holy Spirit empower believers against sin?

In what ways does transformation occur from inside out?