Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

We have been taught (correctly) that in order to follow God, in order to please God, in order to live by faith, we MUST know the Bible. But it is possible to have knowledge of what the bible says, and still not be right with God. There is a right way to read the Bible, and that right way produces holiness in our lives.

Tonight, Pastor Mike taught on the importance of *truly knowing God* — not just being acquainted with Him. He reminded us that relationships grow through time, pursuit, and desire, and our relationship with God is no different. Using Paul’s cry, “that I may know Him,” Pastor Mike emphasized that even seasoned believers must continually seek God’s presence. He encouraged us to cultivate hunger, draw near intentionally, and pursue God with our whole heart. When we do, God reveals Himself, strengthens us, and equips us for the works He’s called us to do.

Today’s message speaks directly to a culture that either fears everything or fears nothing. Pastor Scott explained that biblical fear is not panic, anxiety, or dread — it’s reverence, seriousness, and awareness of God’s presence. He contrasted unhealthy fear (fear of man, fear of failure, fear of danger) with healthy fear (fear of dishonoring God). This message invites our community to reject the fears that paralyze us and embrace the fear that protects us — the fear of the Lord that leads to wisdom, obedience, and holiness.

In this series on holiness, we have referred often to Romans 12:2 and the transformation that takes place when our minds are renewed. Today, we're going to focus more on the rest of that verse, and how knowing and proving the will of God can produce holiness.

We all know we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. But the New Testament speaks of another means of transformation. What happens when we really look at God? What would happen if the Lord actually appeared to you? Would it change you forever? You might be surprised by how the bible answers that question!

Genesis records that "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness." Paul seizes upon this truth in his letters to the Romans and the Galatians. James quotes it in his epistle. Faith is counted as righteousness; so what is the importance of obedience?