24-1124p - The Christian Standard, Part 2, Jim Lokenbauer
Bible Reader: Tom Freed

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The Christian Standard, Part 2

Summary of Transcript (0:04 - 36:29)

Scripture Reading

Bible Reader: (0:04 - 0:26), Tom Freed

  • Hebrews 4:12 is read, emphasizing the living and active nature of God’s word, which is sharper than any two-edged sword, capable of dividing soul and spirit, and discerning thoughts and intentions.

Summary

Preacher: Jim Lokenbauer

(0:31 - 2:02) Introduction and Hebrews 4:12

  • The speaker reflects on a previous discussion about using the Bible as a measure for spiritual growth.

  • An entire sermon could be based on this verse due to its depth and significance.

(2:03 - 4:07) Discussing Biblical Translations

  • Translations of the Bible like ASV, ESV, KJV, NKJV, NIV, and WEB are mentioned, focusing on how "word" is translated:

    • In many versions, "word" is lowercase, indicating it as a noun (God’s spoken words).

    • Some versions use an uppercase "W" suggesting "Word" as a personal pronoun, referring to Christ himself.

  • The speaker highlights the dual interpretation of "word" in the verse, referring to both Christ and the spoken words of God.

(4:08 - 4:34) The Greek Word "Logos"

  • Logos, the Greek word for "word," is correctly translated in both interpretations discussed.

(4:34 - 5:26) Contextualizing "The Word" in Hebrews 4:13

  • Hebrews 4:13 is referenced to argue that "the word" in verse 12 refers to Christ himself, as no created thing is hidden from Him.

  • An image from Revelation of Christ with a sword coming from His mouth supports this interpretation.

(5:26 - 6:13) John 1 and the Capitalization of "Word"

  • John 1 is cited where Jesus is described as the Word, confirming the capitalization of "Word" in various Bible translations.

(6:14 - 10:37) The Power of God’s Word

  • Jesus as the Word in John 1 underscores the living and active nature of both Christ and His teachings.

  • The words of Jesus are inherently powerful because He is God, affecting human hearts mysteriously.

  • The parable of the growing seed in Mark 4:26-29 is used to illustrate the mysterious growth process, akin to the impact of God’s Word.

(10:38 - 12:30) God’s Sovereignty Over Natural Processes

  • Only God fully understands the process by which His word influences hearts, likened to how seeds grow in soil.

  • The speaker reflects on personal experiences of sharing the gospel, trusting in God’s power to yield results.

(12:33 - 12:38) The Mystery of God’s Word

  • Acknowledgment that the process by which the Word affects hearts remains a mystery, yet it undeniably does.

(12:39 - 13:24) God’s Wisdom and the World’s Folly

  • The wisdom of God’s processes confounds the worldly wise, as seen in 1 Corinthians 2.

(13:25 - 17:17) God’s Power and Use of His Word

  • Isaiah 55 is referenced to discuss the unfailing power and return of God’s word according to His will.

  • The speaker touches on God’s sovereignty, including His ability to harden hearts for His purposes, as exemplified with Pharaoh and in Romans 11.

(17:18 - 19:20) Historical and Theological Implications

  • The hardening of hearts among the Jews led to the spread of Christianity to the Gentiles, fulfilling God’s broader plan.

  • Despite hardened hearts, salvation remains available to all through repentance.

(19:21 - 20:44) Transformation by the Word

  • Romans 12 is quoted to highlight how believers are transformed by the renewal of their minds through God’s word, aligning with His will.

(20:46 - 21:15) Transformation Through the Word

  • The process of repentance involves hearing God’s word, believing it, and subsequently changing one’s mindset.

  • Faith is created through this process of hearing and believing.

(21:16 - 21:55) The Role of the Holy Spirit

  • Transformation into Christ’s image is facilitated by the Holy Spirit, not by human effort or mimicry.

(21:58 - 23:16) Knowledge and Grace

  • The speaker refers to 2 Peter 1, explaining that increased knowledge of God leads to more grace and personal transformation.

  • This knowledge leads to tests from God to refine patience and other virtues.

(23:18 - 24:00) God’s Testing

  • God tests believers, like with patience in traffic, to see if they apply what they’ve learned from His Word.

(24:02 - 25:16) Fruits of Transformation

  • The Holy Spirit produces fruits like joy, peace, patience, etc., as believers align with Christ’s teachings.

  • Early Christians turned the derisive term "Christian" into a badge of honor, reflecting their transformation.

(25:17 - 27:54) Becoming Children of God

  • John 1:12-13 describes how receiving and believing in Christ gives one the right to become God’s child.

  • Jesus explains to Nicodemus in John 3 that one must be born again of water and the Spirit to enter God’s kingdom.

(27:55 - 28:34) Being Born Again

  • 1 Peter 1:22-25 states that being born again involves purification through the truth, resulting in love for others, achieved through God’s imperishable word.

(28:35 - 32:28) Baptism and the Holy Spirit

  • Baptism is likened to being born again, where one’s old self dies, and they rise anew with the Holy Spirit.

  • Acts 2:38 mentions that repentance and baptism result in the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

(32:29 - 33:01) Living with the Holy Spirit

  • The Holy Spirit works within believers to foster spiritual growth, but individuals must engage with the Bible to facilitate this change.

(33:04 - 36:29) Reflecting on God’s Standards

  • The Bible as a 'mirror' helps believers see where they need to change, encouraging them to work on personal flaws.

  • The transformation is ongoing, with believers tested on their weaknesses.

  • The hope of resurrection and eternal life is linked to this transformation through Christ’s righteousness.

  • Believers are encouraged to walk in the light and not resist the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.

  • An invitation for prayer and support is extended for those seeking spiritual change.