Transformation, Part 1 – The Hope of Transformation
Readings:
Romans 8:24-34
Romans 12:1-3
Notes:
Question: Are there times in your life when you have a strong sense of disappointment that you are not all you could/should be?
Quote: “Now, with God’s help, I shall become myself.” – Soren Kierkegaard
See also: Ephesians 2:8-10
A distinction between words we often use interchangeably… Change vs. Transformation Change deals with the fringe, or the external. Changing hair color, clothes, etc. Transformation deals with the core. Transforming the way we think or act.
The possibility of Transformation is the essence of Hope.
Readings:
Romans 5:10-11
2 Corinthians 5:18-21
Matthew 5:23-24
Notes:
Reconcile– to settle differences; to come back together
-Between God and us
-Between each other
-Always involves 2 parties (unlike forgiveness, which can be done alone)
The parts of reconciliation:
-Review the event or circumstances that caused the fracture.
-Release the stranglehold on rights and obligations.
-Restore whatever is necessary to moving forward.
-Recognize that something new has been created.
Notes:
The 9/11/01 attacks were not just attacks on a country, they were attacks on a way of life.
Questions:
-If the government derives it’s power from the consent of the governed, where to the governed get their power?
-What role can a Christ-follower play in making this grand experiment in freedom, liberty and justice as strong and successful as possible?
Getting the house in order (from Matthew 21)…
-House of Purity (v.12)
-House of Prayer (v.13)
-House of Power (v.14)
-House of Praise (v.16)
My People (God’s identification with you) Called by My Name (your identification with God)
-Humility of self (Humility is assessing yourself honestly, admitting your mistakes, and acknowledging your dependence on God)
-Hunger for God (and seek His face)
-Hatred of Hatred
Notes:
Martha:
-Loved the Lord
-Lived for the Lord
-Listened to the Lord
-Labored for the Lord
The most important work you will do– being at the feet of Jesus, listening to Him and fellowshipping with Him.
Why a person should work hard and do a good job:
-Praise (do it for God)
-Personal Responsibility (see 2 Thess. 3:10-12)
-Prosperity and Generosity (As God pours it in, you pour it on others)
-Purpose/Passion
The Key: Understanding and appreciating the balance and interaction between these reasons.
Anatomy of Good Leadership & Good Decision-Making
- To be a good leader, be a good follower, and prepare for leadership.
- Silence is almost always necessary prior to decision-making.
- One must garner attention in order to lead.
- Respecting others, respect for experience.
- To lead, one must have foundational principles.
- To lead well, one must have a firm grasp of history.
- Good leading/good decision-making requires innovation and flexibility.
- To lead, one must gain enlistment, agreement, buy-in, and investment.
- Good leading/good decision-making requires positive action.
Notes:
Questions:
-Where is Jacob going?
-Who is this mystery man?
-Is there anything in your life that you need to clear up?
Lessons:
-Before you can clear things up, you’ll probably need to “wrestle” with God.
-God knows just how to “touch” your life.
-(Often) a fresh “blessing” from God is essential to moving forward.
-When you have seen God “face to face” you will see His face all over the place.
Notes:
Things to remember while pursuing success:
Victory belongs to those who…
-Get Clarity
-Follow Direction
-Execute with Intensity
-Reward Loyalty
-Remember Your Name