Promise Verse

 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God

(2 Corinthians 5:20)

Promise Verse

 "Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity."

(Joel 2:12-13)

Message - Transformed by God's Glory

 

Transformed by God's Glory

The passages today focus on God’s glory and how it transforms us. Throughout Scripture, encounters with God’s presence lead to change, renewal, and mission.

• Moses’ face shone after being in God’s presence on Mount Sinai.
• Jesus was transfigured on the mountain, revealing His divine glory.
• Paul teaches that in Christ, we behold God’s glory and are being transformed.
• Psalm 99 reminds us that God reigns in holiness, calling us to worship.

Main Themes for Today’s Sermon:

1. God’s Glory Revealed to Moses (Exodus 34:29-35)
2. God’s Glory in Christ (Luke 9:28-36, [37-43a])
3. God’s Glory Transforms Us (2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2)
4. Our Response: Worship and Obedience (Psalm 99)

 

I. God’s Glory Revealed to Moses (Exodus 34:29-35)

A. Moses’ Shining Face

After spending 40 days in God’s presence on Mount Sinai, Moses’ face radiated God’s glory.

“His face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.” (Exodus 34:29)

• This was not just a physical change—it was a sign of God’s presence.
• The people were afraid to come near him because they recognized that he had been with God.
• Moses had to wear a veil when speaking to the Israelites.

B. Lessons from Moses' Encounter with God

1. True transformation happens when we spend time with God.
2. God’s presence leaves a lasting effect on our lives.
3. Others will notice when we are walking closely with God.

Does my life reflect that I have been in God’s presence?

 

II. God’s Glory in Christ (Luke 9:28-36, [37-43a])

A. The Transfiguration of Jesus

Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray, and something incredible happens:

“As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.” (Luke 9:29)

• Moses and Elijah appear – representing the Law and the Prophets.
• The disciples are amazed but do not fully understand.
• A voice from heaven declares:

“This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” (Luke 9:35)

B. The Significance of the Transfiguration

1. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.
2. God’s glory is revealed in Christ.
3. Jesus' mission leads to the cross, but His glory will be revealed fully.

C. Coming Down from the Mountain (Luke 9:37-43a)

After this glorious event, Jesus immediately goes back to healing and serving.

• The mountaintop experience was powerful, but Jesus’ mission was to bring God’s power into the real world.
• Glory leads to service—we must take what we receive from God and use it to help others.

How does my experience of God’s presence shape how I serve others?

 

III. God’s Glory Transforms Us (2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2)

A. The New Covenant: Unveiled Faces

Paul contrasts Moses’ veiled face with the freedom and transformation we have in Christ:

“We all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image.” (2 Corinthians 3:18)

• In Christ, we do not need a veil—we have direct access to God’s presence.
• We are being transformed—this is a continuous process.
• This transformation is through the Spirit of the Lord.

B. Living in the Light of God’s Glory

“Since we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.” (2 Corinthians 4:1)

• Because we have received God’s mercy and transformation, we must live differently.
• Paul warns against distorting God’s Word—we must live with integrity.
• Our lives should reflect Christ’s glory, not just in words but in actions.

How is God transforming me to reflect His glory?

 

IV. Our Response: Worship and Obedience (Psalm 99)

A. The Holiness of God

Psalm 99 calls us to worship and exalt the Lord:

“The Lord reigns, let the nations tremble.” (Psalm 99:1)

• God is holy, powerful, and just.
• We must approach Him with reverence and worship.

B. Worship Leads to Transformation

“Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy.” (Psalm 99:9)

• Worship is not just singing songs—it is a lifestyle of holiness.
• When we truly encounter God’s glory, it should lead to obedience and change.

Is my worship leading to real transformation in my life?

 

How Do We Respond to God’s Glory?

As we reflect on today’s scriptures, let us ask ourselves:

1. Am I spending time in God’s presence, like Moses, so that my life reflects His glory?
2. Do I recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s glory, and am I listening to Him?
3. Is my life being transformed daily into the image of Christ?
4. Am I worshiping God in a way that leads to obedience and service?

 

• Let us seek God’s presence daily so that our lives shine with His glory.
• Let us live boldly for Christ, reflecting His light to the world.
• Let us worship in spirit and truth, allowing God’s holiness to transform us.

 

 

 

 

Last Sunday after the Epiphany

 Exalt the Lord our God,

And worship at His holy hill;

For the Lord our God is holy.

(Psalm 99: 9)

Message Repentance and Fasting – A Call to True Transformation

 

Repentance and Fasting – A Call to True Transformation

Repentance and fasting are two powerful spiritual disciplines that bring us closer to God. They are not just religious rituals, but acts of the heart that reflect a deep desire for transformation.

• Repentance means turning away from sin and returning to God. It is more than saying "sorry"—it is a commitment to change.
• Fasting is a way of humbling ourselves before God, seeking His will, and growing in spiritual strength.

Today, we will explore:

1. The True Meaning of Repentance (Joel 2:12-13, Acts 3:19)
2. The Purpose of Fasting (Isaiah 58:6-9, Matthew 6:16-18)
3. How Repentance and Fasting Work Together

 

I. The True Meaning of Repentance (Joel 2:12-13, Acts 3:19)

A. Repentance is a Change of Heart

The prophet Joel calls us to true repentance:

“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments.” (Joel 2:12-13)

This verse teaches us that repentance is not just an outward action, but an inward transformation.

• The Jews in ancient times would tear their clothes as a sign of grief. But God says, "Tear your hearts, not your clothes!"
• True repentance is not about outward appearances but about a sincere change of heart.

B. Repentance Leads to Forgiveness and Renewal

In Acts 3:19, Peter tells the people:

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

• Repentance brings forgiveness—God wipes away our sins.
• Repentance brings renewal—God refreshes our spirits and restores our joy.
• Repentance brings transformation—we begin to live a new life in Christ.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Repentance is not just about feeling bad for our sins—it’s about changing our ways.
• God is merciful and ready to forgive when we turn to Him with sincerity.
• Repentance brings spiritual renewal and peace.

Are there any sins in my life that I need to confess and turn away from?

 

II. The Purpose of Fasting (Isaiah 58:6-9, Matthew 6:16-18)

A. Fasting is More Than Just Abstaining from Food

In Isaiah 58:6-7, God speaks about the kind of fasting He desires:

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house?”

This passage teaches us that fasting is not just about giving up food—it is about:

• Breaking sinful habits
• Helping those in need
• Seeking justice and righteousness

B. Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18)

Jesus warns against fasting for show:

“When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly, I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:16)

Instead, He teaches:

• Fasting should be done with a humble heart.
• It should be between you and God, not to impress others.
• God rewards those who seek Him sincerely.

C. The Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

• Fasting helps us focus on God—it removes distractions and strengthens our faith.
• Fasting humbles us—it reminds us that we depend on God, not just physical food.
• Fasting brings breakthroughs—many in the Bible fasted when seeking God’s direction or deliverance.

Am I fasting with the right heart, seeking God, or just following a tradition?

 

III. How Repentance and Fasting Work Together

A. Fasting Without Repentance is Useless

• Fasting is NOT a substitute for repentance.
• If we fast but continue in sin, our fasting is meaningless.
• True fasting should lead to true repentance.

Example:
In Jonah 3:5-10, the people of Nineveh fasted and repented when Jonah preached God’s judgment. Because their hearts were sincere, God showed mercy.

B. Repentance and Fasting Bring Revival

• Throughout Scripture, fasting and repentance bring revival.
• When we fast and seek God’s face, He responds with grace and transformation.

C. Personal and Church-wide Application

• On a personal level:
• Repent from hidden sins, bad habits, or anything keeping you from God.
• Fast as a way to seek God’s strength and renewal.
• As a church/community:
• Join together in fasting and prayer for spiritual renewal.
• Seek repentance and unity in Christ.

How can I use fasting as a way to deepen my repentance and grow spiritually?

 

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we reflect on repentance and fasting, let us commit to:
Repent sincerely, not just outwardly.
Fast with a right heart, seeking God’s presence.
Allow repentance and fasting to transform our lives.

What steps will I take this week to truly repent and seek God through fasting?

 

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 Come to me, 

all you who are weary and burdened, 

and I will give you rest

(Matthew 11:28)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and 

saves those who are crushed in spirit.

(Psalm 34:18)