Jeffrey Johnson's sermon on 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 addresses the struggle many Christians face with sin and the doubts about their salvation it can create. He emphasizes that while sin is a daily battle, it does not define a Christian's identity. Johnson begins by discussing the Corinthians, who were guilty of defrauding each other, an act Paul rebukes. Yet, Paul's words to the Corinthians are not just a rebuke but also a comfort, reminding them of their transformation in Christ.
Johnson then explores the warning Paul gives about habitual sin, emphasizing that certain behaviors are incompatible with inheriting the Kingdom of God. He uses the idea of a syllogism to illustrate that while the Corinthians were acting unrighteously, Paul does not conclude they are damned, but rather, he reassures them of their salvation.
The heart of the sermon is the contrast between the Christian's past life of sin and their current state of redemption. Johnson highlights that Christians, though they may sin, are no longer defined by their sins. They have been washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ. This transformation is not an excuse to continue sinning but an encouragement to live out their new identity in Christ.
Johnson also delves into the doctrines of sanctification and justification. He stresses that salvation is a transformation that changes a person's nature and relationship with sin. Christians are sanctified, set apart as holy, and justified, declared righteous, through Christ. This change is not something Christians achieve by themselves but is a work of God through Jesus Christ.
Towards the end of the sermon, Johnson provides practical applications, urging believers to see themselves as new creations in Christ, forgiven and justified. He encourages them to live in this truth, not being defined or discouraged by their struggles with sin but energized by their new identity in Christ to pursue holiness.
In summary, Johnson's sermon offers a balanced view of Christian life, acknowledging the struggle with sin while emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's salvation. It’s a message of hope and assurance for believers, reminding them that their identity in Christ is not based on their ability to overcome sin but on Christ's redemptive work.
