Transforming Relationships Through Christ's Love and Grace

Summary

### Summary

In today's gathering at Mount Olive, we reflected on the chaos in our world and our hearts, and how God's unchanging promises provide us with strength and encouragement. We continued our series on defiance, focusing on challenging cultural norms and moving from outward appearances to inner transformation. This transformation is crucial in our relationships, where we often default to survival instincts and self-centeredness. Instead, we are called to let the love of Christ control us, shifting our focus from self-preservation to living for Jesus and serving others.

We examined the default positions or patterns in our lives, particularly in our relationships. These patterns often lead us to see others through a worldly lens, focusing on how they can serve us or meet our needs. However, Paul’s letter to the Corinthians reminds us that we are controlled by the love of Christ, who died for all, so we no longer live for ourselves but for Him. This love compels us to see others not from a worldly point of view but through the eyes of Jesus, filled with mercy and grace.

We discussed how Jesus' sacrifice covers all our sins and brokenness, allowing us to rise above what we thought would destroy us. This new life in Christ empowers us to serve others, even when it’s challenging. We are called to see people as God sees them, understanding that everyone needs His mercy and grace. This perspective changes how we interact with those closest to us, helping us to love and serve them in meaningful ways.

### Key Takeaways

1. God's Unchanging Promises: In the midst of chaos, both globally and personally, God's promises remain steadfast. His presence in our lives through bread and wine, and His unchanging word, provide us with the strength and encouragement we need to face each day. This assurance helps us to navigate the tumultuous events around us with a sense of peace and purpose. [01:17]

2. Challenging Cultural Norms: Defiance in a Christian context means challenging cultural norms that pull us away from our identity in Christ. Instead of focusing on outward appearances and trying to impress others, we should seek inner transformation that reflects God's work in us. This inner change is crucial for authentic relationships and living a life that honors God. [02:37]

3. Love of Christ Controls Us: Our default position often leads us to self-preservation and control. However, Paul reminds us that the love of Christ should control us. Jesus' sacrifice covers all our sins and brokenness, allowing us to live not for ourselves but for Him. This shift in control from self to Christ transforms our actions and relationships. [10:18]

4. Seeing Others Through Jesus' Eyes: We are called to see others not from a worldly point of view but through the eyes of Jesus. This means recognizing that everyone needs God's mercy and grace, just as we do. By seeing others with compassion and understanding, we can serve them in ways that reflect God's love and grace. [16:25]

5. Living Out Our New Life in Christ: Jesus' resurrection empowers us to rise above our past and live a new life in Him. This new life is not about self-preservation but about serving others and living for Jesus. By embracing this new identity, we can face challenges with hope and extend God's love to those around us, even in difficult relationships. [23:08]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[01:17] - God's Unchanging Promises
[02:37] - Challenging Cultural Norms
[04:16] - Default Positions in Relationships
[07:34] - Love of Christ Controls Us
[10:18] - Jesus' Sacrifice and Our New Life
[16:25] - Seeing Others Through Jesus' Eyes
[18:18] - Serving Others with Compassion
[23:08] - Living Out Our New Life in Christ

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Corinthians 5:14-17 (ESV)
> "For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."

#### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul mean when he says "the love of Christ controls us"? ([07:34])
2. How does Paul describe our new life in Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:17?
3. According to the sermon, what are some default positions we might have in our relationships? ([04:16])
4. How does the sermon describe the way Jesus' sacrifice impacts our lives and relationships? ([10:18])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Paul says we should no longer live for ourselves but for Christ? ([10:18])
2. How does seeing others through Jesus' eyes change our interactions with them? ([16:25])
3. What does it mean to challenge cultural norms in the context of our faith, according to the sermon? ([02:37])
4. How does the concept of God's unchanging promises provide strength and encouragement in times of chaos? ([01:17])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you defaulted to self-preservation. How could you have approached it differently by letting the love of Christ control you? ([07:34])
2. Think of a relationship where you have viewed the other person from a worldly point of view. How can you start seeing them through Jesus' eyes this week? ([16:25])
3. Identify a cultural norm that you feel pulls you away from your identity in Christ. What steps can you take to challenge this norm and seek inner transformation? ([02:37])
4. In what ways can you remind yourself of God's unchanging promises during personal or global chaos? ([01:17])
5. How can you serve someone in your life who is difficult to love, reflecting God's mercy and grace? ([18:18])
6. What practical steps can you take to live out your new life in Christ, focusing on serving others rather than self-preservation? ([23:08])
7. Think of a person who has hurt you deeply. How can you begin to see them with eyes of mercy and grace, as Jesus does? ([16:25])

Devotional

Day 1: God's Unchanging Promises

In the midst of chaos, both globally and personally, God's promises remain steadfast. His presence in our lives through bread and wine, and His unchanging word, provide us with the strength and encouragement we need to face each day. This assurance helps us to navigate the tumultuous events around us with a sense of peace and purpose. When we feel overwhelmed by the world's instability, we can find solace in the fact that God's promises never waver. His faithfulness is a constant source of hope and strength.

Reflecting on God's unchanging promises can transform our perspective on life's challenges. Instead of being consumed by fear or anxiety, we can rest in the knowledge that God is with us, guiding and sustaining us. This understanding empowers us to face each day with confidence, knowing that we are not alone. God's promises are a firm foundation that we can rely on, no matter what circumstances we encounter. [01:17]

Psalm 119:89-90 (ESV): "Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens. Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth, and it stands fast."

Reflection: Think of a current situation in your life that feels chaotic or uncertain. How can you remind yourself of God's unchanging promises in this situation today?

Day 2: Challenging Cultural Norms

Defiance in a Christian context means challenging cultural norms that pull us away from our identity in Christ. Instead of focusing on outward appearances and trying to impress others, we should seek inner transformation that reflects God's work in us. This inner change is crucial for authentic relationships and living a life that honors God. In a world that often values superficial success and image, Christians are called to a different standard—one that prioritizes the heart and character over external appearances.

By challenging cultural norms, we align ourselves more closely with God's values and purposes. This defiance is not about rebellion for its own sake but about living in a way that honors God and reflects His love and truth. It requires courage and conviction to stand against societal pressures and to live out our faith authentically. As we focus on inner transformation, we become more like Christ, and our lives become a testament to His grace and power. [02:37]

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: Identify one cultural norm that you feel pressured to conform to. How can you challenge this norm and seek inner transformation that reflects God's work in you?

Day 3: Love of Christ Controls Us

Our default position often leads us to self-preservation and control. However, Paul reminds us that the love of Christ should control us. Jesus' sacrifice covers all our sins and brokenness, allowing us to live not for ourselves but for Him. This shift in control from self to Christ transforms our actions and relationships. When we are controlled by Christ's love, our motivations and priorities change. We begin to see our lives as opportunities to serve and honor Him rather than seeking our own gain.

This transformation is not always easy, as it requires us to let go of our desire for control and trust in God's plan. However, as we surrender to Christ's love, we experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. Our relationships become more meaningful as we seek to love and serve others with the same selflessness that Christ demonstrated. This shift in perspective allows us to live in a way that truly reflects the heart of God. [10:18]

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (ESV): "For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself striving for control? How can you allow the love of Christ to guide your actions and decisions today?

Day 4: Seeing Others Through Jesus' Eyes

We are called to see others not from a worldly point of view but through the eyes of Jesus. This means recognizing that everyone needs God's mercy and grace, just as we do. By seeing others with compassion and understanding, we can serve them in ways that reflect God's love and grace. When we view people through Jesus' eyes, we move beyond judgment and self-interest, and instead, we see their inherent worth and value as God's creation.

This perspective changes how we interact with those around us, especially in our closest relationships. It challenges us to extend grace and forgiveness, even when it is difficult. By seeing others as God sees them, we are better equipped to love and serve them in meaningful ways. This approach fosters deeper connections and helps us to build relationships that are rooted in God's love and truth. [16:25]

Ephesians 4:32 (ESV): "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

Reflection: Think of someone you struggle to see with compassion. How can you ask God to help you see this person through Jesus' eyes and extend His love and grace to them today?

Day 5: Living Out Our New Life in Christ

Jesus' resurrection empowers us to rise above our past and live a new life in Him. This new life is not about self-preservation but about serving others and living for Jesus. By embracing this new identity, we can face challenges with hope and extend God's love to those around us, even in difficult relationships. Our new life in Christ is marked by a shift in focus from ourselves to the needs of others, reflecting the selfless love of Jesus.

Living out our new life in Christ involves daily choices to prioritize His will over our own desires. It means being intentional about how we spend our time, resources, and energy, seeking to honor God in all that we do. As we live for Jesus, we become a light to those around us, demonstrating the transformative power of His love. This new life is a journey of continual growth and surrender, as we seek to become more like Christ each day. [23:08]

Colossians 3:1-3 (ESV): "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from fully living for Jesus? What steps can you take today to embrace your new life in Christ and serve others more selflessly?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "We're here because the Lord has called us in the midst of all of this to gather as his people, to be strengthened in bread and wine. Christ is present, and as it's said in Scripture, his word remains. Nothing's changed in terms of God's promises to his children. And we're here also to hear from words of Scripture by his Spirit to be encouraged. I mean, who doesn't need encouragement? Who doesn't? I don't care how old you are. You need encouragement." [01:17] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all have died. One person, Jesus, took upon himself that which destroys, that which maims, that which bruises, that which assaults, that which is horrific. Therefore we have all died. That is, death has already done its worst, but it didn't hit us. That's when it says all have died. We have been covered, covered by Jesus." [10:18] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "What you thought was going to kill you is not going to kill you. What you thought was going to destroy you is not going to destroy you. What you thought you could never get past, Jesus rose from the dead. You can stand up now, and you can stand up now, and get on with your life. And that is Christ's love, and that's what moves us from the inside to the outside." [12:17] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The Lord says, let me tell you about us, that you're covered with the presence of the risen Lord Jesus. And that says, even though at times you feel like you're smothering, or drowning, or hopelessly lost, or confused, or so angry you can spit nails, the Lord says, I want you to remember I'm walking with you. Why? Because I'm not dead. You're not worshiping a smiling Buddha made out of stone, but I am present." [14:28] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "We regard no one from a worldly point of view, but we see them as Jesus sees us. Someone needing the presence of Jesus, who has taken upon himself the horror, and the sin, and the anger, and the destructiveness of the world, and says, you are safe with me, and may that safe place in which you live with Jesus, might not be in your life, but it's your present reality in Jesus." [23:08] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "Defiance really, in the context of what we're talking about here at Mount Olive, has to do with saying, whoa, I'm going to challenge what it is, the culture, and what it is that, whether that's the media in terms of entertainment or in terms of things that people say is important or whatever it is that I have to deal with that gets in my face in a way that pulls me away from the assurance, and at times we're not so sure, that I am the Lord. I am the Lord's child. I am precious to Him. He's never going to leave me. He's never going to abandon me." [02:37] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "What is the algorithm, if you will, or what is the default position in terms of how I see, perceive the people closest to me? All righty, so in your mind, you may, visualize even, or bring to mind the people closest to you. Those are people in whom you have invested, all right? Emotion, history, time, memories. Some of them are going well, some of them are not going so well. I assume that because that's, quote, normal. That doesn't mean it feels good, but it's predictable." [05:33] (62 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Lord, give us eyes to see people needing your mercy and grace, which means they have their issues, they have their struggles, they have their, and I'm going to use the word demons, that they struggle with. Lord, give me eyes to see. That they also need your mercy and grace. And ultimately, you're their judge and not me. Give me eyes to see ways in order to serve them. Give me eyes and wisdom to see what I can do and what I cannot do for them." [16:25] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "If I look at myself and don't see Jesus, then I don't need Jesus. I'm going to digress just a moment here. I'm going to go right over here just for a moment, and I'll come back. And the digression is, some of you are married, some of you are not. Some of you don't have any desire to be married. Some of you would like to be, and you're not. Okay, all right. When I did pre-marriage counseling, I loved it, because I would always find out, how did you meet? Boy, have I heard stories about how people meet." [19:48] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "We regard no one from a worldly point of view. What is a worldly? Hey, you messed up. You're out of here. You're on your own. I'm going to abandon you. You should have done this. You didn't. I'm out of here. No. That's a worldly point of view. That is, if you don't perform, you're out, all right? But I see all of my children through Jesus' eyes, says the Father, loved and graced. A worldly point of view. What can you do for me? With Jesus' eyes, I'm here to serve, and Lord, give me the wisdom to know what I can do and what only you can do, because there are limits of what you can do in anybody's life." [18:18] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?