Living with a Heavenly Perspective: Embracing Our Identity

 

Summary

In today's gathering, we explored the profound truths found in Colossians 3:1-4, emphasizing the transformative power of setting our hearts and minds on things above. This passage invites us to live in the reality of our resurrection with Christ, urging us to focus on heavenly realities rather than earthly distractions. The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, addresses the Colossian church, challenging them to reject false teachings that mix old covenant rituals with Gnostic philosophies. Instead, he calls them to recognize the absolute supremacy and sufficiency of Christ.

We are reminded that our lives are hidden with Christ in God, a truth that offers both security and a call to live out our identity as new creations. This hidden life is not just a future hope but a present reality, empowering us to live with the fullness of the Holy Spirit. We are encouraged to embrace our dual citizenship—living as citizens of heaven while navigating our earthly existence. This balance requires us to understand our culture without conforming to it, allowing our heavenly identity to shape our earthly actions.

The sermon also highlighted the importance of renewing our minds, as our thoughts shape our behaviors and attitudes. By setting our minds on things above, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His peace. We are called to live with a mindset of gratitude, recognizing that thankfulness breaks the power of the enemy and aligns our spirit with God's.

Through the examples of biblical figures like Paul, Moses, Joshua, and Abraham, we see the power of living with a heavenly perspective. These individuals demonstrated unwavering faith and trust in God's promises, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Their lives inspire us to live with a renewed mind, rejoicing in God's promises before we see them fulfilled.

As we conclude, we are reminded of the power of God's presence in our lives. By cultivating a culture of presence and choosing to believe in God's promises, we can live transformed lives that reflect His glory. Let us fix our hearts and minds on things above, living as new creations empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring hope and light to the world around us.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Supremacy and Sufficiency of Christ: Embrace the truth that Christ is supreme and sufficient, rejecting any teachings that detract from His centrality in our lives. This understanding empowers us to live with confidence in our identity as new creations, hidden with Christ in God. [49:43]

2. Renewing the Mind: Our thoughts shape our reality. By setting our minds on things above, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His peace. This spiritual discipline transforms our character and empowers us to live out our heavenly identity on earth. [57:35]

3. Living with Dual Citizenship: As citizens of both heaven and earth, we are called to navigate our earthly existence with a heavenly perspective. This balance requires us to understand our culture without conforming to it, allowing our heavenly identity to shape our earthly actions. [58:22]

4. The Power of Gratitude: Gratitude breaks the power of the enemy and aligns our spirit with God's. By choosing thankfulness, we insulate ourselves from the discouragement of the world and live in the reality of God's promises. [01:34:35]

5. Faith in Action: Biblical figures like Paul, Moses, Joshua, and Abraham inspire us to live with unwavering faith in God's promises. Their lives demonstrate the power of a heavenly perspective, encouraging us to trust in God's faithfulness even when faced with challenges. [01:28:25]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[19:13] - Worship and Praise
[39:32] - Announcements
[41:53] - Prophetic Words
[45:56] - Vision of Protection
[48:01] - Abundance from Adversity
[49:43] - Introduction to Colossians 3
[50:52] - Raised with Christ
[53:34] - Supremacy of Christ
[55:31] - Setting Hearts on Things Above
[56:19] - Dual Citizenship
[57:35] - Renewing the Mind
[58:22] - Balancing Present and Eternity
[01:01:20] - Living in the Now and Not Yet
[01:04:09] - Hidden Life with Christ
[01:06:06] - Future Hope and Present Reality
[01:10:02] - Full Rights as Children of God
[01:11:28] - Transformation and Renewal
[01:12:43] - Power of Words and Declarations
[01:14:39] - Examples of Faithful Living
[01:18:00] - Moses' Heavenly Focus
[01:22:23] - Joshua's Unwavering Trust
[01:28:25] - Abraham's Faith in the Impossible
[01:29:49] - Living in Transformed Glory
[01:32:30] - Scriptural Declarations
[01:34:35] - Rejoicing in God's Promises
[01:36:42] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Colossians 3:1-4

Observation Questions:
1. What does it mean for our lives to be "hidden with Christ in God" as mentioned in Colossians 3:3? How does this concept offer both security and a call to action? [49:43]
2. How does the sermon describe the dual citizenship of believers, and what are the implications of living as citizens of both heaven and earth? [58:22]
3. What examples from the sermon illustrate the transformative power of setting our minds on things above? [57:35]
4. How does the sermon explain the importance of gratitude in breaking the power of the enemy? [01:34:35]

Interpretation Questions:
1. In what ways does the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ challenge the false teachings addressed by Paul in Colossians? How can this understanding empower believers today? [53:34]
2. How does renewing the mind align believers with God's will, and what impact does this have on their character and actions? [57:35]
3. What does it mean to live with a heavenly perspective, and how did biblical figures like Moses and Abraham demonstrate this in their lives? [01:18:00]
4. How can believers cultivate a culture of presence and choose to believe in God's promises in their daily lives? [01:29:49]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current mindset. Are there specific earthly distractions that prevent you from setting your mind on things above? How can you address these distractions this week? [49:43]
2. Consider your dual citizenship as a believer. How can you better navigate your earthly existence while allowing your heavenly identity to shape your actions? [58:22]
3. Gratitude is emphasized as a powerful tool against the enemy. What are some practical ways you can incorporate gratitude into your daily routine to align your spirit with God's? [01:34:35]
4. Think of a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you apply the example of biblical figures like Abraham, who trusted in God's promises despite seemingly insurmountable challenges? [01:28:25]
5. The sermon highlights the importance of renewing the mind. What specific steps can you take to renew your mind and align your thoughts with God's will this week? [57:35]
6. How can you actively cultivate a culture of presence in your life, ensuring that you are aware of God's presence and promises daily? [01:29:49]
7. Identify one area in your life where you need to exercise faith in action. What steps can you take to demonstrate unwavering faith in God's promises, similar to the examples given in the sermon? [01:28:25]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Christ's Supremacy and Sufficiency
In Colossians 3:1-4, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ, urging believers to reject teachings that detract from His centrality. This passage calls us to live in the reality of our resurrection with Christ, recognizing that our lives are hidden with Him in God. This truth offers both security and a call to live out our identity as new creations. By embracing Christ's supremacy, we are empowered to live with confidence, knowing that He is sufficient for all our needs. This understanding challenges us to focus on heavenly realities rather than earthly distractions, allowing our heavenly identity to shape our earthly actions. [49:43]

Colossians 2:9-10 (ESV): "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority."

Reflection: In what areas of your life are you tempted to seek fulfillment outside of Christ's sufficiency? How can you intentionally focus on His supremacy today?


Day 2: Renewing the Mind for Transformation
The renewal of the mind is a powerful spiritual discipline that shapes our reality. By setting our minds on things above, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His peace. This transformation of thought leads to a transformation of character, empowering us to live out our heavenly identity on earth. As we renew our minds, we are called to reject false teachings and embrace the truth of Christ's supremacy. This process requires intentionality and discipline, as our thoughts shape our behaviors and attitudes. By focusing on heavenly realities, we can experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit and live transformed lives. [57:35]

Romans 12:2 (ESV): "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Reflection: What specific thoughts or beliefs do you need to renew in order to align with God's will? How can you practice this renewal daily?


Day 3: Navigating Dual Citizenship
As believers, we are called to live as citizens of both heaven and earth, navigating our earthly existence with a heavenly perspective. This dual citizenship requires us to understand our culture without conforming to it, allowing our heavenly identity to shape our earthly actions. By setting our hearts and minds on things above, we can live with the fullness of the Holy Spirit, empowered to bring hope and light to the world around us. This balance challenges us to embrace our identity as new creations, living out our faith in practical ways that reflect God's glory. [58:22]

Philippians 3:20-21 (ESV): "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself."

Reflection: How can you actively live out your heavenly citizenship in your daily interactions and decisions? What practical steps can you take to ensure your heavenly identity shapes your earthly actions?


Day 4: The Transformative Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful spiritual practice that breaks the power of the enemy and aligns our spirit with God's. By choosing thankfulness, we insulate ourselves from the discouragement of the world and live in the reality of God's promises. This mindset of gratitude empowers us to experience God's peace and joy, even in the midst of challenges. As we cultivate a heart of thankfulness, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and His presence in our lives. This practice transforms our perspective, allowing us to see God's hand at work in every situation. [01:34:35]

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV): "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Reflection: What are three specific things you can express gratitude for today? How can practicing gratitude transform your perspective on current challenges?


Day 5: Faith in Action through a Heavenly Perspective
The lives of biblical figures like Paul, Moses, Joshua, and Abraham demonstrate the power of living with a heavenly perspective. These individuals exhibited unwavering faith and trust in God's promises, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Their stories inspire us to live with a renewed mind, rejoicing in God's promises before we see them fulfilled. By cultivating a culture of presence and choosing to believe in God's promises, we can live transformed lives that reflect His glory. This faith in action challenges us to trust in God's faithfulness and embrace our identity as new creations. [01:28:25]

Hebrews 11:1-2 (ESV): "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation."

Reflection: What promise of God are you currently waiting to see fulfilled? How can you actively demonstrate faith in action as you wait for His timing?

Quotes


Since then, this is in the NIV, since then, since then, you have been raised with Christ. Set your hearts on things above where Christ is seated, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things, for you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. [00:49:08]

In Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. Again, think of this, you know, he's setting these theological presuppositions for the church. In him you were also circumcised with the circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off, when you were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God who raised him from the dead. [00:53:45]

Set your hearts, in other words, a determination on your part to set your focus on this reality, the deepest thing you long for. Sometimes we hear the phrase, home is where your heart is. We know what that means. I mean, you've been on long trips and it's great, it's adventurous, but there comes a point when you long for being home, right? [00:55:41]

We live as citizens of heaven, but we also live as citizens of earth right now. We have dual citizenship. But what's of greater value? What has the eternal significance? And it's important to remember that reality. Additional thoughts on this. So set your hearts and minds on things above, not on earthly things. [00:58:06]

Philippians 4 is a good guide here. It says, Rejoice in the Lord always. And I say it again, rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your request to God and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [01:02:17]

So moving on to verse three for you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. You died. Chapter two talked about we just read a few of those verses earlier, but we talked about you buried with him. You were buried with him, but you are also alive with him. Galatians 2 20 says I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. Romans six. You were buried with him through baptism. Our old self was crucified with him. [01:03:27]

And then verse 4, when Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. When Christ who is your life, Christ is my life. We have life because of him. Our life is hidden in him. Our life is centered around him. Set your hearts and your minds on things above. And when Christ who is your life appears, now Christ has already appeared. Christ will appear again. [01:04:49]

Secondly, we are a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5 .17 says, Galatians 6 .15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is the new creation. In Ephesians 4 .23 -24 Be made new in the attitude of your minds. Do you recognize that? Be made new in the attitude of your minds and put on the new self created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. [01:07:53]

Romans 12, 2, do not conform to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is, His good, perfect, and pleasing will. The Passion Translation says that verse this way, it says, Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. [01:11:22]

The words that we speak are powerful weapons to bring the power forth of life and death to, Proverbs 18, 21, life and death are in the power of the tongue. But words of blessing are incredibly important. Almost every Sunday, we stand up here and speak the words of the Aaronic blessing. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Those are powerful words over your life. And speaking, scriptural truths and declaring them over your life are powerful because it aligns your heart and your mind with your spirit, with His spirit. [01:12:53]

And Joshua's strategy really was to commit to God's word, not based on military strategy or human strength. We certainly see that through the book, as they conquer the promised land, that it was idiotic sometimes. Battle of Jericho is a perfect example of this. God asks them to do something completely ridiculous. Just get up and march around the walls. That's how you're going to defeat Jericho. [01:24:38]

Hope is the belief that the future will be better than the present and that we have the power to help make it so. Third, remind yourself of God's promises. Recite scriptural truths. Review prophetic words spoken over your life. Speak scriptural declarations over your life. Here's just an example. These are all scriptural. God is on my side. Therefore, I cannot be discouraged or defeated. [01:31:59]

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Transcript
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