‘Power’ means to have might, strength and ability. What things would you say you are best at and when did you realise that you had this ability?
Along with things that we are good at, we probably all have areas where we feel we are weak. Unfortunately, some of us have come to believe that we have ungodly character traits that will be with us for life: “I’m fearful… anxious… angry…lustful…cowardly…undisciplined… that’s who I am and I cannot change!”
God wants us to know that ‘resurrection power’ is at work in us if we have come to know Jesus by faith. Paul writes,
‘I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.’ (Philippians 3:10-11)
He writes in Romans,
‘We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.’ (Romans 6:4)
Put simply, if you are a Christian, you will ‘live a new life’ that reflects the character of Jesus. Our physical baptism into water is symbolic of the reality that we have died and have risen to new life in Christ.
RESPONSE
Transformation isn’t easy. But it will be impossible if we fail to recognise and put our faith in the Spirit’s ‘incomparably great power that is at work in us who believe’ (Ephesians 1:18-20).
Transformation begins with trusting in Jesus’ ability to change you over and against your inability to change yourself.
Transformation begins by getting serious about growth and overcoming sin in our lives. If you are serious about growth it’s important to be accountable and meet to pray regularly with a mature Christian who can encourage you.
COMMUNITY GROUP STUDY - KNOWING LEADS TO LIKENESS
Notices
It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News.
Suggested opener/Ice-breaker
Growing up, who did you most want to be like and why?
Introduction - please share in your group
Knowing leads to likeness. Knowing God will lead to our transformation into the image of God increasingly over time. Paul wrote,
‘I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.’ (Philippians 3:10-11)
Comments