A Journey Beyond Guilt

Ever found yourself in that spot where you've done that thing — you know, the one you swore you'd never do again? And now you're sitting there feeling all sorts of yucky, ashamed, and like you've got a one-way ticket to the outskirts of God’s neighborhood. Yeah, we've all been there.

So, what's the deal? We mess up and think the answer is to go into overdrive with self-discipline, right? Like, if we just punish ourselves enough or stack up enough good deeds, we'll make things right. Spoiler alert: it doesn't work. All we end up doing is setting up this impossible standard for ourselves (and, let's be real, for others too). It’s like we’re trying to craft this shiny, flawless record to present to God (or, more often, to ourselves) as proof we're worthy. But deep down, we know it’s just not cutting it. We still feel incomplete.

But what if there was another way? This brings us to the good stuff Paul was dishing out to the Colossians. He's talking about a church in the thick of a cultural hotpot, trying to figure out how to be Christians without getting lost in the sauce of religious rituals and self-imposed righteousness. And Paul drops this truth bomb: completeness is found in Christ, not in our efforts.

So, here’s the kicker: When we're united with Christ, we're already 100% there. God's not up there with a clipboard, checking off our good deeds. He sees us as complete in Christ — no additions necessary. All the things we think we need to do to make ourselves right with God? They’re just empty philosophies. In Christ, our old life is dealt with, our record is clean, and we're walking in victory. 

Now, you’re probably thinking: "That's great and all, but what does that mean for me, like, right now?" Here's where it gets practical:

1. Guard Your Faith: Don’t let anyone make you think you're not already right with God. When you mess up, don't dive into self-condemnation; instead, be grateful for what Jesus has done. Remember, it's not about nailing the perfect holy routine; it’s about living in the freedom Jesus gives.
   
2. Grow in Him: Think of your faith like a plant. You want those roots to go deep into the soil of Christ’s love. Build your life on this solid foundation, and watch how it transforms you.
   
3. Gush with Confidence: Yeah, you read that right. Strut in the confidence of being right with God, thanks to Jesus. When temptations come knocking, remind yourself of what Christ has done for you. It’s not about ignoring the cost of your freedom; it’s about living in its full value!

In essence, loving the Gospel isn’t just a feel-good mantra. It’s the real deal that leads to genuine godliness. It’s not about the rules or rituals; it's about being rooted in who Christ is and what He's done for us. In Him, we’re complete. No add-ons needed. So, let’s live like it!

- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 01/07/23.