Called to Purity

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of internal transformation, where our minds and spirits are aligned with God's Spirit. We're not just talking about changing our external behavior, but rather experiencing a deep, spiritual renewal that leads to a new creation in Christ. This is what it means to be "born again" – to have a transformed inner being that reflects the character of God.

Key Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 2:16 - For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. This verse highlights the incredible gift we've been given – the ability to think and understand God's ways, just like Jesus does.
• Romans 12:2 - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Here, Paul encourages us to let go of worldly thinking and allow our minds to be transformed by God's Spirit.
• Ephesians 4:23-24 - Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. This passage emphasizes the importance of spiritual renewal and putting off our old selves to become more like Christ.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! This verse beautifully illustrates what it means to be "born again" – we're not just changed on the outside, but our very nature is transformed.
• Galatians 5:16-17 - So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. This passage reminds us that our old nature still hungers for sinful things, but we have the power to choose a new way – one that's guided by God's Spirit.
• John 3:6-7 - What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be surprised at this: You will not control the Spirit; it will control you. These verses emphasize that our new life in Christ comes from being "born again" – a spiritual rebirth that transforms us from the inside out.

Key Takeaways

• The transformation we experience in Christ is not just about changing our behavior, but about having our minds and spirits renewed by God's Spirit. This means letting go of worldly thinking and embracing a new way of living that's guided by the Holy Spirit.
• We're called to walk by the Spirit, rather than following our old nature. This requires us to be intentional about choosing a path that's contrary to our fleshly desires and instead seeks to please God.
• The renewing of our minds is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. We must continually submit ourselves to God's Spirit, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out.
• As we experience this spiritual transformation, we'll begin to see the old ways of living fade away and be replaced by a new creation in Christ – one that reflects His character and righteousness.

This Week's Challenge

This week, take time to reflect on your thought patterns and behaviors. Ask yourself: "Am I walking by the Spirit, or am I controlled by my old nature?" Identify areas where you need to let go of worldly thinking and choose a new path that's guided by God's Spirit. Additionally, make a conscious effort to renew your mind through prayer, Scripture reading, and seeking guidance from others.

Reflection Questions

• What are some ways in which my old nature still influences my thoughts and actions? How can I begin to let go of these patterns and choose a new way that's guided by God's Spirit?
• How do you think our community can come alongside one another in this journey of spiritual transformation? What role can we play in supporting each other as we seek to walk by the Spirit?
• Reflect on a time when you experienced a significant change in your life – perhaps a new job, a move, or a relationship. How did that experience shape your perspective and understanding of God's work in your life? What lessons can you apply from that experience to your current journey of spiritual transformation?