What is the life the life you’ve always wanted?

1. Jesus came proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom. “After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" Mark 1:14-15

2. The primary goal of the spiritual life is authentic human transformation. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 “My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you…” Galatians 4:19

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever- increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:17-18

The Greek word Metamorphoo means to transform (literally or figuratively, "metamorphose")

3. Transformation involves growing more like Jesus by doing what he did.

Dallas Willard “We can grow more like Christ. Spiritual transformation is authentically possible through faith and grace if I am willing to arrange my life around the activities Jesus Himself practiced in order to remain constantly at home in the fellowship of His father.”

Dallas Willard “My central claim is that we can become like Christ. Spiritual transformation is possible by doing one thing—by following Him in the overall style of life Jesus chose for Himself.”

A Spiritual Discipline is any activity that can help me gain power to live life as Jesus taught and modeled it.

Misconceptions about Spiritual Disciplines They are not barometers of spirituality.

Misconceptions about Spiritual Disciplines They are not barometers of spirituality. They are not a way to earn favor with God.

Sheldon Vanauken “The strongest argument for Christianity is Christians, when they are drawing from the life of God. The strongest argument against Christianity? Also Christians, when they become exclusive, self–righteous and complacent.”

Misconceptions about Spiritual Disciplines They are not barometers of spirituality. They are not a way to earn favor with God. They are not unpleasant.

Richard Foster “Neither should we think of Spiritual disciplines as some dull drudgery aimed at exterminating laughter from the face of earth. Joy is the keynote of all the disciplines. The purpose of the disciplines is liberation from the stifling slavery to self-interest and fear. When the inner spirit is liberated from all that weighs it down, it can hardly be described as dull drudgery. Singing dancing even shouting characterize the disciplines of the spiritual life.”

4. Spiritual Transformation is not a matter of trying harder but training wisely. “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:25

“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

5. The life you’ve always wanted doesn’t just happen. You have to yearn for it and pursue it. “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” Ps 42:1-2

“However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

“As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men. Mark 1:16-17