From Sinner to Sonship

The following section contains a Sermon Summary, Sermon Outline and MC Discipleship Guide.

Sermon Summary

In 'From Sinner to Sonship,' Pastor Steve Marfia delves into the intricate concept of our Christian identity amidst a culture often at odds with biblical truths. He begins by highlighting a news story that exemplifies the moral confusion prevalent in today's society. Our struggle with identity stems from a fundamental lack of understanding about God's nature and our place in His plan. Steve then emphasizes that trusting Jesus enables us to reclaim our identity as beloved children of God, empowering us to navigate life's challenges.

He illustrates this journey by recounting the narrative from Genesis, where humanity, initially created in God's image, faltered due to sin. However, through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, our identity is restored. The sermon concludes with a call to delve into Scripture to deepen our understanding of our identity in Christ.

Sermon Outline

Big Idea: There is war for your identity because both God and Satan seek to define you.

1.   God creates identity for you. (Gen.1:26-27, 31)   

2.   Satan counterfeits an identity for God and you. (Gen. 3:1, 4-5)   

3.   Jesus restores your identity. (Luke 4:1-14, Gal. 4:4-6)

MC Discipleship Guide

FIRST THIRD = LOOK BACK - Use up to 45 minutes to build community by caring for one another.

1. Opening Question: If you were to create a new holiday, what would it be called and how would we celebrate it?

2. Check-in on everyone. (You can ask about "highs and lows" or "struggles and excitements" or whatever works to get people sharing about their lives with one another.)

3. Pray with and for one another as the Spirit prompts you.

SECOND THIRD = LOOK UP - Take about 45 minutes to review and discuss the Scripture(s) and sermon from Sunday:

4. Societal influences, exemplified by the case of a young woman who chose euthanasia due to her mental health struggles, can distort our understanding of our identity.

Q: In what ways have you felt the pressure of following cultural norms instead of biblical truths in your own life?

5. The sermon highlights various signs indicating uncertainty in our identity, such as confusion about oneself, seeking external validation, shifting values, loss of purpose, and self-doubt, to name a few.

Q: Which signs of uncertainty in your identity do you struggle with and how?

6. The sermon referred to Galatians 4:4-6 and 2 Corinthians 5:17, which state that we become children of God and new creations in Christ when we believe in Him.

Q: How has your life changed since embracing your new identity in Christ, and what areas do you feel still need more growth and transformation?

THIRD THIRD = LOOK FORWARD - Take the last 30 minutes to pray and discuss how God is calling each person to live on mission with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit in the upcoming week.

7. Is there something specific from the Scriptures, sermon or discussion that God wants you to share with someone in your life? What is it and who does He want you to share with?

8. How will you live out the missional BLESS rhythms in the week ahead?

9. Do you or someone you know have a need that we can serve this week?

*BLESS Rhythms are practical ways in which disciples of Jesus live on mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit in their daily lives.

BEGIN WITH PRAYER: Start each day by praying and listening to the Spirit. Continue listening to the Spirit throughout the day, living surrendered to Jesus as your Savior and King.

LISTEN: Listen attentively to the Spirit's guidance and to those you encounter where you live, learn, work and play.

EAT and/or DRINK: Build friendships with others by sharing meals or drinks together, fostering connections and opportunities for meaningful conversations.

SERVE: Look for practical ways to serve your neighbors, co-workers, and those around you, demonstrating the love of Jesus through acts of kindness and compassion.

SHARE: Boldly share the gospel message and your personal testimony with those you engage with, expressing your faith with confidence and sincerity.