This week, Josh continues in our Romans series by looking at how we can know whether we’re a Christian or not. Tune in to find out the two identifiers the Apostle Paul gives to answer this question.
KEY IDEAS:
How do I know that I know Jesus?
- We often look to how well we’re doing to indicate whether we are a Christian.
- In Seattle we’re tempted to gauge our activism and social involvement as the indicator of whether we’re a Christian.
- There is only one main indicator of whether we’re a Christian or not: the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.
What This Doesn’t Mean
- Having the Holy Spirit doesn’t mean we have perfection.
- We still have minds, hearts, and bodies that are prone toward sin and breakdown.
- This is why our assurance shouldn’t be wiped out when we’re in a bad spot with sin.
What This Does Mean
- Having the Holy Spirit does mean that we have a growing inner renewal.
- “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer selves are wasting away, our inner selves are being renewed day by day.” – 2 Cor. 4:16
- The Holy Spirit creates new life in us when we look at Jesus and are assured. And when we are assured, new life in Jesus is energized. That’s Christian growth: looking to Jesus and being assured, and from that assurance being compelled to look at Jesus and love him more.