YOU ARE CHANGED

ICEBREAKER
​If you were to set a new year’s resolution that starts tomorrow, what would it be?
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We’re discussing a series called “New Year. New You.” And, it’s all about “Strengthening your core for a healthier life” meaning your spiritual core, your Identity in Christ. Today we’re talking about the principle “You are Loved.” 

REVIEW & DISCUSS
​On Sunday, Pastor Mike shared about the term sanctification which describes the work of the Holy Spirit forming us to become holy and Christ-like. This is a life-long process. In what ways do you recognize the Spirit forming you these past few years?

While Sanctification is an ongoing journey, there are actually some other ways we are changed immediately when we put our trust in Jesus as our Savior…
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You are Redeemed (delivered from sin by the payment of a price)

1. Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
2. What images come to mind when you think of being redeemed?
3. How does knowing we are redeemed impact our daily lives?

You are Forgiven (brought back into genuine, authentic relationship with God)

1. Read 1 John 1:9.
2. What images come to mind when you think of being forgiven?
3. How does knowing we are forgiven impact our daily lives?

You are Justified (declared innocent and set free from sin/guilt)

1. Read Romans 3:24.
2. What images come to mind when you think of being justified?
3. How does knowing we are justified impact our daily lives?

You are Saved (rescued from the consequence of your sin)

1. Read Ephesians 2:8.
2. What images come to mind when you think of being saved?
3. How does knowing we are saved impact our daily lives?

​You are Made New (we are born again into a new life)

1. Read 2 Corinthians 5:16-17.
2. What images come to mind when you think of being made new?
3. How does knowing we are made new impact our daily lives?

​TAKEAWAY
What are the garbage beliefs people have about themselves regarding our ability to change? (i.e. “I will always be this way”). Why do we think these garbage beliefs are true of us?

How can we replace these garbage truths with God’s truth? 

When we believe that God has changed us, that change will begin to shape us. Which of the five statements do you struggle with believing the most? What can you do this week to embrace this change more? 
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PRAYER
First, take some time to ask people to identify prayer needs related to the discussion about encouraging one another. Second, take some time to ask for additional prayer requests. Then close your time together in prayer.