We Believe... The Apostles' Creed: Week Four
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound truth of salvation through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the unique and unparalleled nature of Christianity. Unlike other religions that place the burden of salvation on the individual, Christianity offers a liberating message: salvation is a gift from Jesus, who has already paid the price for our sins. This truth is encapsulated in the Apostles' Creed, a declaration of faith that has guided believers for centuries. It reminds us of the core tenets of our faith, affirming our belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
We delved into the concept of salvation, highlighting that it is not something we can earn through our deeds or adherence to religious practices. Instead, it is a gift from Jesus, who lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose again, conquering sin and death. This act of love and sacrifice means that we are saved once and for all, a truth that should fill us with gratitude and assurance.
Hebrews 7:24-25 was a focal point, illustrating that Jesus' priesthood is eternal, and He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him. This complete salvation means that we are delivered from the penalty of sin, and we are made new creations in Christ. It is a once-for-all act that assures us of our eternal security in Him.
We also discussed the importance of living a life of repentance, not as a means to earn salvation, but as a response to the grace we have received. Repentance is about turning away from sin and returning to the loving arms of our Father, who is always ready to welcome us back. This year of Jubilee is a time to renew, refresh, and recommit to our relationship with God, experiencing the freedom that only He can provide.
In conclusion, we are reminded that Jesus alone saves, completely and without a doubt. Our salvation is secure in Him, and we are called to live in the freedom and joy that comes from knowing we are His. Let us continue to proclaim His name and live for Him, trusting in His finished work on the cross.
Key Takeaways:
1. Salvation as a Gift: Unlike other religions that require individuals to earn their salvation, Christianity offers salvation as a gift through Jesus Christ. This liberating truth means that we are saved not by our works but by His grace, freeing us from the burden of trying to earn our way to heaven. [08:23]
2. Complete Salvation: Jesus' sacrifice on the cross provides complete salvation, delivering us from the penalty of sin and making us new creations in Him. This once-for-all act assures us of our eternal security and calls us to live in the freedom and joy of being His. [11:09]
3. The Power of Repentance: Repentance is not about earning salvation but responding to the grace we have received. It involves turning away from sin and returning to God, who is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. [23:29]
4. Assurance in Christ: Our salvation is secure in Jesus, who intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father. We can have confidence in our salvation, knowing that it is not dependent on our actions but on His finished work on the cross. [26:00]
5. Living in Freedom: The year of Jubilee is a time to renew, refresh, and recommit to our relationship with God. By embracing the freedom that comes from knowing Jesus saves, we can let go of what traps us and experience the fullness of life in Him. [30:17]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:15] - Filled with the Spirit
- [03:45] - Year of Jubilee
- [05:10] - Apostles' Creed
- [07:30] - Salvation in Christianity
- [08:23] - Jesus Alone Saves
- [11:09] - What We Are Saved From
- [13:45] - The Power of Being Saved
- [17:37] - Once for All
- [20:00] - Complete Salvation
- [23:29] - Repentance and Relationship
- [26:00] - Assurance in Christ
- [27:37] - Sanctification vs. Salvation
- [30:17] - Living in Freedom
- [33:13] - Proclaiming Jesus
- [35:31] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Hebrews 7:24-25
2. Acts 4:12
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17
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Observation Questions:
1. According to Hebrews 7:24-25, what is the significance of Jesus having a permanent priesthood? How does this relate to the concept of complete salvation? [11:09]
2. In Acts 4:12, it is stated that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus. How does this verse emphasize the uniqueness of Christianity compared to other religions? [08:23]
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 speaks about becoming a new creation in Christ. What does this transformation entail, and how is it connected to the idea of salvation as a gift? [17:37]
4. The sermon mentioned the Apostles' Creed as a declaration of faith. How does this creed help believers affirm their core beliefs? [05:10]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of Jesus' eternal priesthood in Hebrews 7:24-25 provide assurance of our salvation? What does it mean for Jesus to intercede for us? [26:00]
2. Acts 4:12 states that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus. How does this exclusivity challenge or affirm your understanding of salvation? [08:23]
3. Reflecting on 2 Corinthians 5:17, what does it mean to be a new creation in Christ? How does this new identity impact a believer's daily life? [17:37]
4. The sermon emphasized the power of repentance. How does living a life of repentance differ from trying to earn salvation through works? [23:29]
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Application Questions:
1. Hebrews 7:24-25 assures us of complete salvation through Jesus. How can this assurance change the way you approach your relationship with God, especially during times of doubt? [26:00]
2. Acts 4:12 highlights the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus. How can you share this message with someone who believes in earning salvation through their own efforts? [08:23]
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 speaks of becoming a new creation. Identify one area in your life where you struggle to embrace this new identity. What steps can you take to live more fully as a new creation in Christ? [17:37]
4. The sermon discussed the importance of repentance as a response to grace. Is there a specific sin or habit you need to turn away from? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit for strength in this area? [23:29]
5. The year of Jubilee was mentioned as a time for renewal and recommitment. What practical steps can you take this week to renew your relationship with God and experience the freedom He offers? [30:17]
6. The sermon emphasized that Jesus alone saves. How can you ensure that this truth remains central in your life, especially when faced with challenges or temptations? [08:23]
7. Reflect on the idea of living in the freedom and joy of being saved. What is one specific way you can express gratitude for your salvation in your daily interactions with others? [30:17]
Devotional
Day 1: Salvation as a Divine Gift
Salvation in Christianity is not a reward for human effort or moral achievement but a divine gift offered through Jesus Christ. Unlike other belief systems that emphasize personal merit, Christianity teaches that salvation is a liberating gift from Jesus, who has already paid the price for humanity's sins. This understanding frees believers from the burden of trying to earn their way to heaven, allowing them to rest in the assurance of God's grace. The Apostles' Creed encapsulates this truth, affirming the core tenets of faith in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. [08:23]
Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV): "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
Reflection: Consider an area in your life where you feel the pressure to earn approval or acceptance. How can you embrace the truth of salvation as a gift and let go of this burden today?
Day 2: The Completeness of Salvation
The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross provides complete salvation, delivering believers from the penalty of sin and transforming them into new creations in Christ. This once-for-all act assures eternal security and calls Christians to live in the freedom and joy of being His. Jesus' eternal priesthood, as highlighted in Hebrews 7:24-25, underscores His ability to save completely those who come to God through Him. This complete salvation is a source of profound assurance and gratitude for believers. [11:09]
Colossians 1:13-14 (ESV): "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
Reflection: Reflect on a past mistake or sin that you struggle to let go of. How can you embrace the completeness of Jesus' salvation and live in the freedom He offers?
Day 3: The Transformative Power of Repentance
Repentance in Christianity is not about earning salvation but responding to the grace already received. It involves turning away from sin and returning to God, who is always ready to welcome His children back with open arms. This act of repentance is a vital part of the believer's journey, allowing them to experience the renewal and refreshment that comes from a restored relationship with God. The year of Jubilee serves as a reminder to recommit to this relationship and embrace the freedom that only God can provide. [23:29]
Acts 3:19-20 (ESV): "Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus."
Reflection: Identify a specific sin or habit you need to turn away from. What steps can you take today to repent and return to God's loving embrace?
Day 4: Assurance in Christ's Finished Work
Believers can have confidence in their salvation, knowing it is not dependent on their actions but on Jesus' finished work on the cross. Jesus intercedes for believers at the right hand of the Father, providing assurance of their eternal security in Him. This assurance allows Christians to live with confidence and peace, trusting in the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. The knowledge that Jesus alone saves, completely and without a doubt, is a source of profound comfort and strength for believers. [26:00]
Hebrews 10:14 (ESV): "For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified."
Reflection: Think about a time when you doubted your salvation or worthiness. How can you remind yourself of the assurance found in Christ's finished work today?
Day 5: Embracing Freedom in Christ
The year of Jubilee is a time to renew, refresh, and recommit to one's relationship with God, experiencing the freedom that comes from knowing Jesus saves. By embracing this freedom, believers can let go of what traps them and experience the fullness of life in Christ. This freedom is not just a future promise but a present reality that transforms daily living, allowing Christians to live with joy and purpose. Proclaiming Jesus and living for Him becomes a natural response to the freedom and joy found in Him. [30:17]
Galatians 5:1 (ESV): "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel trapped or burdened? How can you embrace the freedom Christ offers and live more fully in His joy today?
Quotes
What you've been saved from is the penalty of your sin. Your separation from God. What Jesus calls that place where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. What Revelation 21 describes as that eternal lake of fire where no one dies but lives in eternal torment. And why is that? Well, John chapter 3 tells us exactly why that is so. And this is what it says starting in verse 18. It says what Jesus says starting in verse 18. For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only son. This is the verdict. Light has come into the world but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through. [00:12:00] (69 seconds)
God if you don't know what it means to be saved that's it it means to exit the darkness and to enter the light and the only way the only means by doing that is by as Jesus says here calling on the name of God's one and only son Jesus alone saves he alone saves and if you think about it that word may actually be the most powerful word the most the most powerful verb in the Bible the word saved most powerful one the most important one the one with the most the most power the most encouragement the most excitement the most liberation and in and in the year of Jubilee that's what it's about the freedom the liberation that we've been given in Christ the word salvation means deliverance to be safe and sound from destruction from danger from judgment it means healing it means wholeness it means rescue and deliverance from the penalty of sin it means new life now and life forever it means the grace and love of God being fully cast fully realized over you in your life it is a once and for all type of a verb it's a it's a word that means that when you have it in your life it is forever here's what Hebrews 10 10 says it says and by that will we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all what a great phrase once for all say that phrase once for all and you know I think it's important to to recognize just the the the power of that phrase because there are some who teach even in Christendom that it's not once for all and that you have to keep it you have to continue in it you have to earn it because trusting in Jesus is not all that you're supposed to do but that's not how the Bible reads it is once for all it means that he has you [00:13:51] (142 seconds)
Delivered you from the penalty of separation from a holy God. Because he alone is holy. And his death makes you holy. It means your slate has been wiped clean once and for all. It means that he has freed you from all guilt once for all. It means Jesus has brought new life in your dead body once for all. 2 Corinthians 5 .17 says, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away and the new has come. No one has to go back to the way that they once were. They have been saved from it. They have been freed from it. No one is bound to the life, to the life of sin that once ruled. They have been freed from it. They have been unbound from it. They are a new creation. Saved, set apart, renewed, restored, once for all. Just as we're emphasizing this year in the year of Jubilee. Once for all. My second point, and it is complete. It is completely. Jesus completely saves. [00:15:31] (82 seconds)
You know what the word completely in the original Greek is? It means the same. It is complete. It is final. It is full. It is 100%. It is all the way. You don't have to doubt it. You never have to second guess it. And there are some, and you may be here today, where you have doubted your salvation. There is something that actually gets in the way of that. Something that is probably more true than you doubting your salvation. It is whether you are trusting in the one who saves. If you trust in the name of Jesus Christ, you never have to doubt it. [00:17:07] (45 seconds)
until you prove yourself, not if you keep the Ten Commandments, although I believe you should keep the Ten Commandments, not if you are obedient to his word, although I believe that we ought to be obedient to his word, but he did that to pardon you. Do you believe that to be true? Do you believe that your sin was not strong enough to keep him in the grave? That his power and his authority over sin, death, and the grave is greater than your sin because he rose from that grave. Your sin, your penalty, could not keep him in that grave because he is Lord over it. Do you believe that to be true? Then never, ever doubt your salvation. If you believe in the person and work of Jesus Christ, there is nothing, no one, there is nothing you can do, there is nothing anyone can tell you that you're not doing. It is believing and trusting in the person and work of Jesus Christ. And when you have that in your mind, you affirm that in your heart, you are completely saved. [00:20:01] (65 seconds)
Not because of what you've done, but all because of Jesus, I'm alive. What does that mean then? If you allow sin, allow that sinful habit, allow that into your life, does that mean that you've lost your salvation? Well, if it does, then Hebrews 7 .25 just lied to us. If that's what it means, then Hebrews 7 .25 just lied to us. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him because he always lives to intercede for them. What does that mean? That tells me that because you believe in Jesus Christ as he sits the right hand of God the Father, let's just say the interaction goes like this. Here's God the Father. Well, look at her. She's doing that again. And here's Jesus. Yeah, but I died for her. She believes in that. Well, look at him. There he is. He's opening up that again. And here's Jesus. But I died for him. I shed my blood for him. And he's trusting in that blood. [00:20:58] (80 seconds)
We have someone interceding for us. We have someone sitting at the right hand of God who is saying, I have covered over their sins with my blood. Keep reading here, verse 26. Such a high priest meets our need, one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priest, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak, but the oath which came after the law appointed the Son who has been made perfect forever. The point of what we're saying is this. We do have such a high priest who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the majesty in heaven and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man. That is what we have been given. That is the person which we are trusting. [00:22:14] (62 seconds)