How to make a pickle

How to make a pickle
November 13, 2011
Pastor Jeff

Making a pickle is a slow process, a soaking process.
Spiritual growth is also a slow process, a soaking process.
We are created in the image of God (Genesis 1). But we are corrupted by sin. This occurred after the Fall of Adam and Eve, bringing sin and death. Sin now permeates every part of us, including out relationships. But God's saving work in Jesus Christ has redeemed us, undoing the sin of Adam. Our great hope is that we shall be like Him. We now have a choice not to sin.

Ephesians 2: we were dead in our trespasses and sin, and Jesus died for our sins which allows us to live in eternity with Him (alive in Christ). We are transferred as full citizens of God's family/ kingdom.

However we still struggle with sin, being in the physical body. We were not only saved, but redeemed and restored in the image of God. We are transformed into His image.

We have been given 3 gifts:
1. His Word
2. His Spirit
3. His Body (the church)

Are we living a transformed life or is our exterior merely changed with a rotten inner core?
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2 ESV)

We need to soak in the truth of His Word, taking risks to allow Him to do great things in our lives. We need to keep practicing the spiritual disciplines.