God Transforms: Study 8 in the series Good Beautiful God

For followers of Jesus, the idea that "l am an awful sinner" must be replaced by the narrative that says: "In Christ I am no longer to be defined by sin. I have been reconciled. Sin has been defeated."

Jesus not only forgives the sin of all people for all time, he broke the power of sin itself. This does not mean that everyone is saved. Only those who call upon his name experience that forgiveness.

God not only wants us to be reconciled, he wants to transform us. He not only took away the guilt of sin, but also the power of sin. Those who are Christ-followers not only receive the merit of his work on the cross but actually participate, by faith, in the crucifixion. Regarding this Paul says: "We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin" (Romans 6:6).

We are not only forgiven, we have participated in Christ's death and resurrection. I am not trying to live a sinless life like Jesus. Jesus, who lived a sinless life, is now living in me.

God is Trustworthy: Study 3 in the series Good Beautiful God

Not everyone believes that God is trustworthy.
Do you doubt that God is trustworthy?

What has caused you to think this way?
Have there been events in your life that seem to contradict this belief?
Do you doubt God when the Bible says He loves you?

Listen carefully to this powerful message. It may be just what you need to hear.

What are you Seeking: Study 1 in the series Good Beautiful God

What Are You Seeking?

Would you like to have abiding peace? Would you like to have a heart that is filled with love? Would you like to have the kind of faith that sees everything - even your failures and losses in light of God's governance for good? Would you like to have the kind of hope that endures even in discouraging circumstances?

If this is the life you most deeply desire, then this study is meant for you! (Adapted from the book "Good and Beautiful God", by James Bryan Smith.)