Responding To God's Call: Embracing Transformation After Easter Psalm 14:1 Series

Responding to God's Call: Embracing Transformation After Easter

Introduction:

As we gather today, let us reflect on the significance of Easter and contemplate the profound question that lingers in our hearts: "After Easter, what next?"

In Psalm 14:1, we encounter a poignant reminder of our human condition and the imperative for spiritual renewal.

"Only fools say in their hearts, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!" (Psalm 14:1, NLT)

Let us explore this verse and discover how we can respond to God's call for transformation in the post-Easter season.

Point 1: Acknowledging the Reality of Sin

"Only fools say in their hearts, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!" (Psalm 14:1, NLT)

The Psalmist's words ring true, revealing the folly of denying God's existence and the consequences of living in rebellion against Him.

As we journey beyond Easter, let us acknowledge the reality of sin in our lives and in the world around us.

Sin permeates our lives and society, hindering our spiritual growth and distancing us from God.

John MacArthur "Acknowledging our sinfulness is the first step towards experiencing the transformative power of God's grace."

Recognising our need for repentance and forgiveness is the first step towards experiencing transformation and renewal.

Psalm 14:1 serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual condition of humanity apart from God.

This verse underscores the importance of acknowledging the reality of sin and its detrimental effects on individuals and society.

Point 2: Embracing God's Redemption (Romans 3:23-24)

"For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins." (Romans 3:23-24, NLT)

In Romans 3:23-24, we find assurance of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Despite our sinful nature, God extends His grace and offers us forgiveness and reconciliation through Christ's sacrifice.

Billy Graham “The cross stands as the ultimate symbol of God's redemption, inviting us to embrace His transformative power."

As we reflect on the Easter story, let us embrace the reality of God's redemption and the transformative power of the cross.

Through faith in Christ, we are made new and empowered to live victoriously over sin.

Romans 3:23-24 reaffirms the universal condition of sin and the universal offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.

This passage highlights the centrality of Christ's sacrificial death in securing our redemption and restoring our relationship with God.

Ephesians 1:7 "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace."

This verse encapsulates a profound truth about the Christian faith and our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Let us unpack its richness:

A. Redemption through His Blood: Here, the Apostle Paul speaks of the foundational Christian doctrine of redemption. The term "redemption" conveys the idea of being bought back or rescued from slavery or bondage.

In this context, it refers to our deliverance from the power and penalty of sin through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. His shed blood serves as the ransom price, securing our liberation from sin's grip and granting us freedom and reconciliation with God.

B. The Forgiveness of Sins: The verse goes on to emphasise that through Christ's sacrificial death, we receive the forgiveness of sins. Sin is the barrier that separates us from God, and its consequences are serious. Yet, because of God's immense love and grace, He offers forgiveness to all who repent and place their faith in Jesus Christ.

This forgiveness is not based on our merit or good deeds but is a gracious gift freely given to us through Christ's atoning sacrifice.

C. In Accordance with the Riches of God's Grace: The verse concludes by highlighting the extravagant nature of God's grace. Our redemption and forgiveness are not meagre offerings but are bestowed upon us in abundance, in accordance with the immeasurable riches of God's grace. God's grace is lavish, overflowing, and beyond measure. It is His unmerited favour poured out upon us, granting us salvation and every spiritual blessing in Christ.

In essence, Ephesians 1:7 encapsulates the heart of the gospel message: that through Jesus Christ, we have redemption and forgiveness of sins, all made possible by the boundless grace of God.

It is a reminder of the incredible love and mercy of our Heavenly Father, who offers salvation to all who believe in His Son.

Point 3: Responding in Obedience and Service (Romans 12:1-2)

"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. Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." (Romans 12:1-2, NLT)