Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

As we wrap up our series on Holiness, it's worth looking at what the Bible says about how God rewards us in eternity. Is it like a payday? Do some receive greater rewards? Are we actually rewarded for our degree of holiness? The Word of God will challenge us and comfort us if we look into it carefully for the answers.

With spiritual attacks ramping up, we need to ensure that we are fully armored. Part of this readiness includes the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Who is the Holy Spirit, why do we need Him, and what does it look like to be filled with Him?

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?

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.

Freedom is a topic that is often addressed in the New Testament. Perhaps most famously when Jesus said "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." As we celebrate 250 years of freedom in this nation, it's a good idea to be reminded of what Jesus taught about freedom for the believer.

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!