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Listening for Change . James 1:22-27. We’re not really listening… …if we’re not really changing. Gospel and Transformation. God… has saved is saving will save. Jesus ’ 1 st Spirit + Jesus’ WORLD Coming Church Return. ME (Conversion) (Now) (Resurrection).
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Listening for Change James 1:22-27
Gospel and Transformation God… has saved is saving will save Jesus’ 1stSpirit + Jesus’ WORLD Coming Church Return ME (Conversion) (Now) (Resurrection)
Gospel and Transformation • James’ test of true religion: Are you… • …Bridling your tongue? • …Caring for most vulnerable? • …Noticeably different from world? • How has God been making you more like Jesus in the last… • 10 years • 1 year • 1 month?
God Image of Christ ??? Bible Culture Family etc. Media School etc. The Scriptures and Transformation Source of Change Instrument of Change Result
The Scriptures and Transformation • James’ test of true religion • …Bridling your tongue? • The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (Proverbs 12:18) • …Caring for most vulnerable? • Do not take advantage of the widow or fatherless (Exodus 22:22) • …Noticeably different from world? • Be holy, for I, Yahweh your God, am holy (Leviticus 19:2)
The Scriptures and Transformation • Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Crawford Loritts) • “Don't ever dare to stand in front of a group of people with a Bible in your hand and not expect change. We must have a holy confidence—confidence in God and his Word, confidence that God is going to change lives whenever we speak from his Book.”
The Scriptures and Transformation • Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Crawford Loritts) • “Remember that the goal of all ministry is transformation. It's not about being liked. It's not about being accepted. God's ultimate goal is to change lives.”
The Scriptures and Transformation • Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Pastor Jon) • Remember this is not about self-improvement, but allowing God to transform you as the Spirit lives the life of Jesus in you.
Practical Tips • “SO WHAT?!” • What did it mean? • What does it mean for me generally? • What does it mean for me specifically? • JOURNAL • Prayerfully ask God to help you answer, “So what?” • Brainstorm list of applications • DISCUSS