True transformation begins when we prepare our hearts, turn to God in repentance, and fully depend on His grace and truth to lead us into abundant life.
This week’s message focuses on how we can start the new year by preparing our hearts for the work God wants to do in our lives. By looking at the ministry of John the Baptist, we’re reminded of the importance of repentance, dependence on God, and the life-changing power of following Jesus.
REVIEW: God Took Initiative
- READ: John 1:6-9 (NLT) "God sent a man, John the Baptist, to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world."
- DISCUSS: How does understanding that God took the initiative in pursuing us help you trust Him more in your life?
REVIEW: God Shared the Truth
- READ: Matthew 3:1-2 (NLT) "In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching. His message was, ‘Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.’"
- DISCUSS: Why is it important to hear and respond to hard truths, and how has God used truth to transform your life?
REVIEW: God Honors Your Freedom
- READ: Luke 18:9-14 (NLT) "Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: ‘Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: "I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income." But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, "O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner." I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’"
- DISCUSS: How does recognizing that God gives you the freedom to choose impact the way you approach your relationship with Him?
REVIEW: Returning to God’s Presence
- READ: Acts 3:19-20 (NLT) "Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and He will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah."
DISCUSS: What is one specific area in your life where you sense God inviting you to turn back to Him, and how can embracing repentance open your heart to experience His forgiveness and refreshment?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Father, we ask You to lead our hearts into true repentance, turning away from sin and toward the life You have called us to. Teach us to depend fully on You, trusting in Your grace to transform and renew us from the inside out. May our lives reflect a deep reliance on Your Spirit as we walk in humility and surrender to Your will.