Following Jesus is not merely adopting a new set of beliefs; it is a journey of spiritual rebirth that results in an everlasting change. This transformation is rooted in the promise that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The old self, governed by sin and worldly desires, gives way to a new life with an altered nature and renewed desires.
This change is not superficial but works from the inside out, powered by the Holy Spirit. As the Spirit takes residence in a believer’s heart, it begins the lifelong process of sanctification—molding their character to be more and more like Christ. This inner renewal of the mind shifts a person’s perspectives, priorities, and values, replacing old habits with a growing desire for righteousness. The life-altering power of Jesus offers freedom from the past and hope for the future, culminating in a new and eternal purpose for living.
We are starting a new series called Forever Changed on Wednesday nights. We will be diving into the life of Saul/Paul and how he was radically changed by Jesus. His life serves as an example for all of us. Our journey isn’t over when we get dunked in water. It is a continual growing process that will take place until the day we get to heaven. That will be our main challenge to the youth over the next four weeks as we seek to put to death our old self and crucify our sinful desires to the cross of Jesus. In doing that, we are freed to be molded and shaped into the likeness of Jesus.