Sermon Central
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Mirror, Mirror Series
Contributed by John Knight on Nov 28, 2017 (message contributor)
Summary: Fifth in series. A look at the identity we truly have in Christ.
There is nothing wrong with imitating godly men and women, but we need to be careful who we imitate, and to what extent.
It’s easy to mimic somebody. It requires much more to think like them.
The people of God are not called simply to reformation or even imitation, but rather transformation.
Alchemy-iron to gold
iron clump into an iron necklace is still iron. Shaped like a gold necklace, but still nothing more than iron. The Alchemist’s goal is transformation.
"Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Jesus Christ" (Philippians 2:5 (RSV)
"Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2 (RSV)
Our identity is not in imitation, but transformation.
O to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer--
This is my constant longing and prayer.
Gladly I’ll forfeit all of earth’s treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.
O to be like Thee, full of compassion,
Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,
Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,
Seeking the wandering sinner to find.
O to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,
Holy and harmless, patient and brave,
Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,
Willing to suffer--others to save.
O to be like Thee! O to be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!
Come in Thy sweetness; come in Thy fullness.
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.
(William J. Kirkpatrick)
