McNeese presents three key principles from Colossians 3 for genuine transformation:

1. Remember that Christ is in you: He emphasizes the New Testament concept of Christ living within believers, contrasting it with the Old Testament idea of God being "with" people. This indwelling presence of Christ is the foundation for true change.

2. Drive a stake through sin in your life: McNeese stresses the need for ruthlessly eliminating sinful behaviors and desires. He discusses Paul's warnings against sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and greed, highlighting how these can become idols displacing God in our lives. The pastor contrasts Joseph's resistance to temptation with David's surrender to it, illustrating the consequences of each approach.

3. Put on a new set of clothes: This metaphor represents adopting Christ-like attributes. McNeese focuses on three specific virtues: a) Forgiveness: Emphasizing its importance in marriage and all relationships. b) Love: Describing agape love that gives unconditionally. c) Gratitude: Encouraging thankfulness towards God and others, especially within families.

Throughout the sermon, McNeese applies these principles to everyday life, particularly marriage. He explains how forgiveness is crucial in relationships between imperfect people, how agape love perseveres through changes and challenges, and how gratitude can transform family dynamics.

The pastor shares personal anecdotes and illustrations to make his points relatable. He recounts his wife helping him update his wardrobe, symbolizing the need to discard old habits and adopt new ones. He also shares how he and his wife practice gratitude for simple blessings in their lives.

McNeese concludes with a touching story about a teacher's affirming words to a student with a cleft palate, drawing a parallel to God's unconditional love and acceptance of us despite our flaws. He reinforces that true transformation begins with recognizing God's love, His presence within us, and His unwavering care.

This sermon offers practical guidance for Christians seeking personal growth and stronger relationships, grounded in biblical teachings and illustrated with relatable examples. It emphasizes that lasting change comes not just from external actions, but from an internal transformation rooted in Christ's indwelling presence and love.

Date: 7.28.24

Website: https://bwchurch.org/

Interested in Baptism? https://bwchurch.org/baptism/

Wanting to know what it looks like to follow Christ? https://bwchurch.org/salvation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWChurch

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bwchurchtx/

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bridgeway-church-tx

Want to reach out? You can email us at hello@bwchurch.org