Deep Dive into Cornerstone by Jeremy Prayer - The Biblical Structure for Change
Based on the sources, lasting biblical change is presented as a continuous process initiated by the Holy Spirit's regenerating power. It's about moving from being feelings-driven, like the Gentiles who were lost in the futility of their minds and let desires dictate actions, to being principle-driven, letting a mind renewed by God's Word guide actions.
This process involves two key actions: "putting off" the old, sinful self and "putting on" the new practice of righteousness and holiness. Putting off sin requires true repentance, which is a multifaceted turning to the Lord. It includes seeing your own sin before God, experiencing godly sorrow over offending Him, confessing sin without excuses, feeling a sense of shame for the sin itself, cultivating a hatred for sin, and actively turning away from it.
Concurrently, believers are to actively "put on" righteous deeds in the power of the Holy Spirit. This isn't about earning salvation but "working out" the salvation already received, cooperating with God who provides both the desire and the ability to obey. Engaging in righteous deeds leads to glorifying God, demonstrating love for Him, enjoying God, and experiencing His peace and a clean conscience, creating an "upward spiral" of obedience, glory, and joy.
Central to becoming principle-driven is thinking biblically and spiritually. This requires diligently reading, studying, and meditating on God's Word. Accurate interpretation, using methods like Observation, Interpretation, and Application (OIA) and understanding historical and theological context, is crucial to avoid misapplying scripture. Ultimately, biblical change aims for a life that pleases, glorifies, and enjoys God.
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