1. Listening for Change James 1:22-27

2. We’re not really listening… …if we’re not really changing.

3. Gospel and Transformation God… has savedis saving will save Jesus ’ 1 st Spirit +Jesus’ WORLDComing ChurchReturn ME (Conversion) (Now)(Resurrection)

4. Gospel and Transformation James’ test of true religion: Are you… ◦ …Bridling your tongue? ◦ …Caring for most vulnerable? ◦ …Noticeably different from world? How has God been making you more like Jesus in the last… ◦ 10 years ◦ 1 year ◦ 1 month?

5. The Scriptures and Transformation

6. God Bible Image of Christ Culture Family etc. Media School etc. ??? Result Source of Change Instrument of Change

7. The Scriptures and Transformation James’ test of true religion ◦ …Bridling your tongue?  The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (Proverbs 12:18) ◦ …Caring for most vulnerable?  Do not take advantage of the widow or fatherless (Exodus 22:22) ◦ …Noticeably different from world?  Be holy, for I, Yahweh your God, am holy (Leviticus 19:2)

8. The Scriptures and Transformation Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Crawford Loritts) ◦ “Don't ever dare to stand in front of a group of people with a Bible in your hand and not expect change. We must have a holy confidence—confidence in God and his Word, confidence that God is going to change lives whenever we speak from his Book.”

9. The Scriptures and Transformation Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Crawford Loritts) ◦ “Remember that the goal of all ministry is transformation. It's not about being liked. It's not about being accepted. God's ultimate goal is to change lives.”

10. The Scriptures and Transformation Approaching the Bible as an instrument of transformation (Pastor Jon) ◦ Remember this is not about self- improvement, but allowing God to transform you as the Spirit lives the life of Jesus in you.

11. Practical Tips “SO WHAT?!” ◦ What did it mean? ◦ What does it mean for me generally? ◦ What does it mean for me specifically? JOURNAL ◦ Prayerfully ask God to help you answer, “So what?” ◦ Brainstorm list of applications DISCUSS

12. We’re not really listening… …if we’re not really changing.