Words of Encouragement - Olu Talabi & Dave Bertsch - July 5, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message emphasizes that believers are new creations in Christ, leaving the old life and its sins behind. The speaker urges listeners to renew their minds by reckoning that they are no longer the same person, constantly putting off the old self and putting on Christ. This transformation is a daily process requiring the Holy Spirit's help to live in the new life offered by Jesus.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Do you prefer the old way or the new way?Comparing the old way of life to the new, Jesus brings something better, though people naturally tend to think the old way is better at first.
If any man be in Christ, all things become newWhen a person comes to Jesus, the old life passes away and everything becomes new as they realize following Him is a much better way.2 Corinthians 5:17
What fruit did the old life bring?Paul asks what fruit the old life of sin brought, reminding believers that sin only leads to shame and death with no good things.Romans 6:20
Reckon yourself dead to sin and put off the old manBelievers must renew their minds and constantly put off the old man so they do not continue falling into the same old sinful habits.
Why do we keep sinning if the old man is dead?Although the old man is crucified with Christ, believers often fail to put him off and end up carrying him around, which corrupts the new life.
Strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner manPaul prayed that the church would comprehend the great breadth, length, depth, and height of the love of Christ which passes knowledge.Ephesians 3:16
I am the Good ShepherdJesus declares that He is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them.John 10:11
David as a picture of Christ the Good ShepherdBefore fighting Goliath, David recounts how he risked his life to rescue a single lamb from a lion and a bear, picturing how far the Lord goes to save us.
My sheep hear my voice and I give unto them eternal lifeJesus promises that His sheep hear His voice, follow Him, and shall never perish because no one can pluck them out of His hand.John 10:24
Thankful for the shepherds God has set upReflecting on how Christ cares for His flock, the speaker expresses gratitude for the shepherds God has provided in the local church.
