Changed by the Giver of Life

April 04, 2010

Jesus offers lasting change that is genuine, Colossians 2:13-14.
1.     We find eternal life in Jesus, v. 13.
     a.     We were dead in sin.
          1)     Absolutely unable to help ourselves.
          2)     Totally separated from God's love.
     b.     Jesus' death/resurrection provide complete forgiveness.
2.     We find freedom from the law of religion, v. 14.
     a.     The law says we have to be perfect to be right with God.
     b.     Everyone fails the law and has a certificate of debt (death).
     c.     Jesus offers grace in place of religion (law).
3.     Jesus specializes in changing lives.

Fishermen Changed, Mark 1:14-20.
1.     Jesus offered a life these men were not thinking of.
2.     They saw something in Jesus and let Him change their lives.
A Demon Possessed Man Changed, Mark 5:1-5, 14-15.
1.     Separation from God left this man in misery.
2.     Jesus restored him to a normal meaningful life.
A Thief Changed, Luke 23:39-43.
1.     This man's choices led to his crucifixion.
2.     Jesus promised him life in heaven…that day!
3.     As long as we are alive it is never too late to turn to Jesus.
Have You Been Changed? John 10:10
1.     The purpose of Easter is to offer real life.
     a.     Fulfilling and meaningful life now.
     b.     Life that will not end at death.
2.     Jesus desires to touch every person individually.

Personal Challenges
1.     The people in today's Bible passages were changed by encounters with Jesus.
     a.     Read each of the passages again.
     b.     What does God want to do in your life?
2.     Do you know God in a personal relationship?