New Life in Christ: Becoming Who You Are

The Family of God

In Ephesians 2:11–22, Paul reminds us that through the blood of Christ, those who were once far from God have been brought near and welcomed into His family. Jesus has broken down every barrier of hostility, reconciling us not only to God but also to one another, creating one unified people in Christ. Because of His work on the cross, we are no longer strangers or outsiders but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household. Together, we are being built into a dwelling place for God, with Christ Himself as the cornerstone of His church.

A Man Made New

Jesus encounters a man who is completely overwhelmed by demonic oppression, living in isolation and unable to be helped by anyone around him. With a word, Jesus demonstrates His authority over the forces of darkness, casting out the demons and restoring the man to health, peace, and dignity. The transformation is so dramatic that the man is found clothed and in his right mind, a living testimony to the power and mercy of Christ. Rather than allowing him to travel with Him, Jesus sends the man home to tell others what God has done, and his testimony leads many people to marvel at the saving power of Jesus.

Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow

Ephesians 1:3–14 is a powerful reminder of the incredible blessings believers have in Christ. Before the foundation of the world, God chose His people in love, adopting them as His children through Jesus and calling them to be holy and blameless. Through Christ’s death, we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance that is secured by God’s grace. Believers are also sealed with the Holy Spirit, who serves as the guarantee that God will fulfill all of His promises and bring His plan to completion.

Absolute Power

Preaching: Ben Lacey - Lead Pastor, Trinity River Baptist Church, Fort Worth Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, set out for Damascus intending to arrest followers of Jesus. On the way, he encountered the risen Christ in a dramatic vision, was struck blind, and came face to face with the truth of the gospel. God then sent a disciple named Ananias to restore Saul’s sight, pray for him, and welcome him into the family of faith. Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit, baptized, and commissioned by God to become a powerful witness of Christ to the nations, demonstrating God’s transforming grace and sovereign purpose.

New Life in Christ: Becoming Who You Are

Paul calls believers to put to death the sinful patterns of their old way of life and to live in light of the new identity they have in Christ. Instead of anger, slander, deceit, and other sinful behaviors, Christians are to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness. Above all, believers are called to love one another, allowing the peace of Christ to rule in their hearts and their relationships. As God’s people, we are to be shaped by His Word, worship Him with gratitude, and seek to honor Jesus in everything we say and do.