Oakwood Church

1. Learn to see people as God sees them

“From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh.”
2 Corinthians 5:16

1. Learn to see people as God sees them

And if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, ‘You sit here in a good place,’ while you way to the poor man, ‘You stand over there,’ or, ‘Sit down at my feet, have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?”
James 2:3-4

2. Change your perspective

“Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer.” 2 Corinthians 5:16

2. Change your perspective

“It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing; that’s how it is with God’s love, once you’ve experienced it. You spread the love to everyone. You want to pass it on.” Kurt Kaiser

2. Change your perspective

World: From goo to you by way of the zoo

God says: made in my likeness / created / chosen / highest form of creation / unique / worthy of redemption

3. New creation in Christ

“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

3. New creation in Christ

“So, we are told to put off … the old man and to put on the new man which was created according to God, in righteousness and true holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24

3. New creation in Christ

A. Security in Christ (John 10:28)
- cannot be plucked out
- never leave nor forsake us

B. Acceptance in Christ (Romans 5:8, 10)
- enemy to friend

3. New creation in Christ

C. Future assurance (Ephesians 1:13-14)
- eternity preserved with the Holy Spirit

D. Divine nature of Christ (Revelation 3:10)
- heaven for eternity
- escaping wrath

4. Reconciled to God

“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 5:18

4. Reconciled to God

Only God can
- Break down barriers
- Change the heart
- Offer eternal forgiveness

5. Called to be ministers of reconciliation

“... gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18

5. Called to be ministers of reconciliation

“If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:24

5. Called to be ministers of reconciliation

Challenge:
- Pray this week
- Write down who you need to reconcile with