Be Transformed
Christianity without transformation isn't Christianity.
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
This verse is one of the core scriptures behind the name Renewal Church. Christianity without transformation is not biblical Christianity. Jesus did not come into the world only to give us a ticket to heaven while leaving us trapped in the muck and mire of sin. He saves us from past sins and empowers Christians to live in victory over sin.
Jude 4 warns us about anyone who teaches otherwise, "For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord."
The bible clearly teaches that sin enslaves and imprisons us. The grace of Jesus sets us free. Can you imagine being set free from prison and rushing back to commit the same offenses that led to your imprisonment in the first place? That's exactly what happens when people use grace as a license to sin.
Instead, as Christians, we are called to live in deep gratitude for having been set free from our past, while depending daily on the One who paid our debt and has the power to help us live in freedom—moment by moment and day by day.
Good job Matt; have a blessed Christmas Day.