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Transformed By Eternal Truth Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Jan 17, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: A transformative journey through three powerful passages: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Psalm 121:7-8, and John 14:1-3.
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Transformed by Eternal Truth
Today, we embark on a transformative journey through three powerful passages: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Psalm 121:7-8, and John 14:1-3.
These verses encapsulate eternal truths that have the potential to radically transform our lives.
Join me as we explore the profound implications of being a new creation in Christ, experiencing the unchanging protection of the Lord, and embracing an eternal perspective that transcends our earthly journey.
Point 1: The Reality of Transformation
In 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT), The Apostle Paul declares, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"
The Greek word for "new" (kainos) implies a radical transformation, not just a renovation.
Belonging to Christ initiates a complete metamorphosis, a spiritual rebirth. In Christ, we are not merely reformed; we are entirely new creations.
Ephesians 4:22-24 (NLT) commands us - "Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy."
Belonging to Christ not only transforms our nature but also redefines our identity. The old life, marked by sin and brokenness, is replaced by a new identity grounded in righteousness. This truth empowers us to live in the freedom and victory that Christ provides.
Galatians 2:20 (NLT) - "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Friend, if you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, then you have a new identity in Christ – you are defined by the fact that you are now a person who is beloved by God. This is your new self – your true self.
Romans 6:4 (NLT) - "For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives."
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the ongoing nature of this transformation, stating, "Christianity is not a one-time experience but a daily experience."
The transformative truth in Christ isn't just a one-time event; it's a continuous journey. The call to walk in the newness of life involves an ongoing partnership with the Holy Spirit, allowing His guidance to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
As you contemplate the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17), "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" let it resonate deeply within your heart.
We are not bound by our past; we are new creations in Christ. May this truth empower us to embrace our identity, walk in the newness of life, and live as testimonies to the transformative power of God's truth.
Point 2: Guided by Eternal Truth
Psalm 121:7-8 (NLT) "The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever."
In a world filled with uncertainties, these verses offer solace and a profound understanding of the transformative power of eternal truth in our lives.
The term "keeps you from all harm" signifies not just physical protection but a safeguarding of our lives.
The phrase "watches over your life" emphasises God's intimate involvement in every aspect of our existence.
The assurance of divine protection is grounded in the unchanging nature of our Lord.
Proverbs 2:8 (NLT) - "He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him."
This eternal truth provides solace and a profound understanding of God's transformative power.
Our Lord's watchful presence isn't confined to specific moments but extends to our entire journey—past, present, and future.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT) - "Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you."
A.W. Tozer offers insight, "God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which he must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves."
Let’s return to Psalm 121:7-8 (NLT) "The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever."
There is a repetition here which emphasises the eternal nature of God's faithfulness. "Both now and forever" conveys the timeless assurance that God's watchful care is not subject to change or limitation. In every season of life, His faithfulness remains unwavering.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT) - "The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."