Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

In talking about holiness, we have heard more than once that we need to see the world through the eyes of Christ, and think the way Jesus thinks, or words to that effect. The Bible talks about us having the mind of Christ, which seems astonishing. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ?

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?  

Tonight, Pastor Mike continued teaching on prayer, reminding us that prayer is the greatest untapped power in the world — not a ritual, but a relationship. Jesus modeled a life of prayer, withdrawing to quiet places and returning with power, clarity, and direction. Pastor taught that prayer is how we receive instructions from “headquarters,” how we abide in Christ, and how we bear fruit. We were challenged to move from visiting God occasionally to *abiding* in Him daily — through prayer, the Word, and fellowship with believers.

Often, when people turn away from Christianity, the church, or "traditional values", it is simply an expression of their desire to find their own way rather than simply to conform to certain arbitrary standards. But there is a difference between conformity and common conviction.