Key truths for change

Behind every sin is a lie (that we are better off without God and that sin offers more than he does) Rom 1:24-25

• This represents functional disbelief in the face of confessional faith

The truth shall set you free Prov 4:18-25; Jn 8:31-32; Titus 2:11-12

We need to see, know, embrace, and desire

• Not just receive information about God but recognise him as the Altogether Lovely One i.e. embracing the truth about God and delighting in it Ps 19:10; Ps 34:8; Eph 1:17-18

• Seeing God → delighting in God → desiring God → desiring God more than we desire sin

We need to preach to our hearts 2 Cor 10:3-5

• Because God … is … all … we… need Ps 62:11-12

• God is great – so we don’t have to be in control Is 40:12; Eph 1:11; Prov 21:1; Acts 4:28(See 1)

• God is glorious – so we don’t have to fear others Prov 29:25 …but God…Is 40:25; Ps 27:1-3(See 2)

• God is good – so we don’t have to look elsewhere Mt 13:44; Jn 4; Mk 8:34-36(See 3)

• God is gracious – so we don’t have to prove ourselves Neh 9:17; Lk 15(See 4).. to sinners v7, 10, 23-24

• Change is about enjoying the freedom from sin and delight in God that God gives to us through Jesus

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1See also Mk 4:40; 5:36; Lk 12:25-31 where Jesus demonstrates his power and says trust in it!

2See also Mt 10:28 where Jesus says to fear him!

3Only fleeting pleasures… Heb 11:24-26…which lead to death …Rom 6:23; Js 1:15

4Watch out for joyless duty ‘all these years i’ve been slaving for you’ Lk 15:29; anxious performance ‘I never disobeyed you’ Lk 15:29; proud comparisons ‘this son of yours has squandered your property with prostitutes’ Lk 15:30