Deep Dive into Cornerstone by Jeremy Prayer - You Can Change Biblically
Based on the sources and our conversation, the essence of sin is a fundamental orientation away from God and towards self, defined as not living entirely to the glory of God. This is the opposite of man's true purpose, which is to glorify God and enjoy him forever, knowing Him and making Him the center of life.
Because of this sinful state, people need to change. God expects this change from those who are saved, not merely for their escape from hell, but because He is gathering a people for himself for his own glory, sanctifying them, and conforming them to the image of Christ. This transformation brings Him glory.
True, lasting biblical change is not possible without the gospel. The gospel is presented as the "motor" of the Christian life, the ongoing, essential power for growth and sanctification, not just the initial "starter." Man on his own cannot change himself; he is powerless to overcome sin by self-will or strategies.
The power to change is bound up in a person, Jesus Christ, and his Spirit living in you. Change occurs by yielding to the Holy Spirit, confessing sin, admitting powerlessness, and being totally dependent on your heavenly father. This involves repenting—stopping living for yourself and turning to live for the Lord Jesus Christ in faith. It requires putting off the old nature (self-centered) and putting on the new nature (oriented towards God and others), striving for Christ-likeness.
God provides the necessary resources for this change, including His Word, His Spirit, prayer, and the church body. Because change is God's work, relying on His power and provisions, there is hope for you to change when you do it God's way.
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