His Workmanship | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message reminds us that our true identity is not defined by our past or current circumstances, but rather by our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We are called to see ourselves as new creations in Him, with a new nature and purpose. This transformation is not just a future promise, but a present reality for those who have put their faith in Christ.

Key Scripture References

• Romans 12:2 - "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." This passage reminds us that our minds need to be renewed in order to see ourselves as new creations in Christ.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse emphasizes the present reality of our new identity in Christ. It's not just a future hope, but a current reality that we can experience.
• Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." This passage highlights our new purpose and identity as believers. We are no longer defined by our past or current circumstances, but rather by our relationship with God.
• Colossians 3:10 - "And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." This verse reminds us that we are to put off our old nature and put on a new one, which is being transformed into the likeness of Christ.
• Isaiah 43:19 - "Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." This passage highlights God's ability to create something new and unexpected. As believers, we can trust that He is working in our lives to bring about transformation and growth.
• Psalm 103:5 - "He satisfies my desires with good things so that my youth is renewed like the eagle’s." This passage reminds us of God's goodness and His desire to renew us and give us new life. As believers, we can trust in His goodness and provision.
• Galatians 2:20 - "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." This passage highlights our union with Christ and the new life that we can experience through Him.

Key Takeaways

• We are called to see ourselves as new creations in Christ, with a new nature and purpose. This transformation is not just a future promise, but a present reality for those who have put their faith in Christ. We can trust that God is working in our lives to bring about growth and renewal.
• As believers, we are no longer defined by our past or current circumstances, but rather by our relationship with God. We are His handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which He prepared in advance for us to do.
• We need to put off our old nature and put on a new one, which is being transformed into the likeness of Christ. This requires a renewal of our minds and a trust in God's goodness and provision.
• God is working in our lives to bring about transformation and growth. We can trust that He is making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland, creating something new and unexpected.

This Week's Challenge

This week, take time to reflect on your identity and purpose as a believer. Ask God to help you see yourself as a new creation in Christ, with a new nature and purpose. Pray for the renewal of your mind and the transformation of your heart. Also, look for opportunities to serve others and do good works, which God prepared in advance for you to do.

Reflection Questions

• What are some ways that you have seen God working in your life to bring about growth and renewal? How can you trust Him more in this process?
• How do you think others might see you as a new creation in Christ? What changes would they notice in your behavior or attitude?
• What good works has God prepared for you to do? Are there any areas where you feel stuck or uncertain about how to serve Him? Ask for His guidance and clarity.