"The Truth that Transforms"
Introduction:
Happy New Year, may Grace and peace be with you. On this first Sunday of 2024, we embark on a transformative journey through God's Word in our new preaching series, "Transformed by Truth."
The foundation for this series rests on the profound words of Jesus found in John 17:17-19, "Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth."
Today, I want us to consider the transformative power of truth as we delve into the words of Jesus in John 17:17-19.
In a world filled with shifting sands of opinions and ideologies, let us anchor ourselves in the unchanging truth that has the power to bring about lasting transformation.
Point 1: The Sanctifying Power of Truth
John 17:17 (NLT): "Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth."
Jesus, in His high priestly prayer, connects holiness with truth.
The process of sanctification is intimately tied to the reception and application of God's truth.
It's not merely about external rituals but about an internal transformation that occurs as we embrace and live out God's truth.
Ephesians 5:25-27 (NLT) tells us that "just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her 26 to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. 27 He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault."
Quotation: J.C. Ryle reminds us, "The Bible applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit is the chief means by which souls are sanctified."
Point 2: Sent into the World with Transformative Truth
John 17:18 (NLT): "Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world."
Jesus not only prays for the sanctification of His followers but also commissions them to carry the transformative truth into the world.
The truth that has changed us is meant to be shared, to penetrate the darkness, and to bring about change in the lives of others.
Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) - "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit."
Quotation: Charles Spurgeon challenges us with these words, "Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter."
Point 3: Set Apart for a Transformative Mission
John 17:19 (NLT): "And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth."
Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice, sets Himself apart for the redemptive mission.
His sacrifice is not only for the forgiveness of sins but also for the transformative power of truth.
We, as His followers, are invited to join in this sacrificial mission, being set apart for the purpose of bringing the truth that transforms.
Romans 12:1 (NLT) - "And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him."
Quotation: D.L. Moody's words resonate with this truth, "The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to Him."
I want to emphasize the urgency of our mission as disciples of Jesus.
The world is in desperate need of the truth that transforms.
As ambassadors of Christ, we carry a message that can break chains, heal wounds, and bring hope.
Consider the lives around you—those in your family, workplace, and community. Who needs to hear this transformative truth today?
This is not just a call; it's a divine assignment.
Quotation: A.W. Tozer's words become a poignant reminder, "A scared world needs a fearless church."
In conclusion, let us not merely be hearers of the truth but doers.
Let the truth we've received propel us into action.
The transformative truth is not confined within these walls; it's meant to spill into the streets, homes, and hearts of those waiting for a message of hope.
Evangelistic Call to Action:
If you have not yet experienced the transforming power of God's truth then why not choose today to be your day of salvation and transformation?
For those already transformed, let this sermon serve as a reminder — an urgent call to share this truth with passion and compassion.
Quotation: Charles Spurgeon's words are a compelling call, "You are either a missionary or a mission field."
May the truth of Jesus Christ continue to transform us, sanctify us, and propel us into a world in need of the life-changing message.
Amen.
