The sermon explored what it means to live as citizens of heaven while still on earth. Pastor emphasized that our salvation comes solely through the cross of Christ—not through our own wisdom, strength, or religious efforts. While many in our world view the message of the cross as foolishness, it is actually the power and wisdom of God for those being saved. We were challenged to find godly examples to follow (our "Paul"), to become examples for others (finding our "Timothy"), and to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and His return. The sermon reminded us that though our bodies are weak and perishable now, we have the hope of transformation into glorified bodies when Christ returns.
Takeaways:
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Walk with others: We need both a "Paul" (someone mentoring us in faith) and a "Timothy" (someone we're discipling). There are no lone rangers in the Christian life—we desperately need each other to grow in knowing Jesus.
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Keep your eyes on the cross: Our salvation depends entirely on what Jesus did, not on our behavior. This truth both humbles us and enables us to extend forgiveness to others who sin against us.
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Live as people being transformed: While we await our future glorified bodies, God is sanctifying us now—making us more like Christ each day. Our lives should reflect Jesus in such a way that others want what we have.
Reflection Questions:
- Who is helping you walk with Jesus? If you don't have someone, who could you ask?
- Who could you pour into and help grow in their faith?
- Are you living with the daily awareness that your true citizenship is in heaven, not here?
May we live this week with our passport ready—trusting in the blood of Jesus alone—while actively walking with others toward our eternal home.
