Brand New | Part 1 | From Brokenness to Purpose
Last weekend was extraordinary, as thousands gathered to celebrate and reflect on the incredible meaning of Holy Week. At the heart of history lies the cross, where the most profound act of love unfolded—a moment that changed the universe forever. This message is an invitation to explore the beauty of grace, the victory of the cross, and the promise of spiritual renewal available to every one of us.
The Cross: A Spiritual and Legal Victory
At the core of the Gospel is a powerful truth: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross achieved both a spiritual and legal victory. Colossians 2:14 tells us, “He canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.” This means that the sins and condemnation we inherited were completely erased, leaving us free to embrace eternal life through Jesus Christ.
The cross was a moment of profound weakness in human eyes, yet it carried the immeasurable strength of God’s grace. As 1 Corinthians 1:25 says, “The foolishness of God is wiser than men; the weakness of God is stronger than men.” In surrendering to His enemies, Jesus demonstrated the ultimate power of righteousness, defeating Satan and reclaiming humanity for God. His victory was not just over sin but over death itself, offering us freedom and new life.
Welcome to the God-Man Race
When Jesus rose from the dead, He became the head of a brand-new creation—the God-man race. This is more than a metaphor; it’s a spiritual reality for those who believe in Him. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus introduced a new way of living. His followers are not merely improved versions of their old selves but entirely new beings with divine DNA. This transformation changes how we see the world, how we think, and how we interact with others. Like Jason Padgett, whose traumatic experience gave him new abilities, believers are given spiritual insight and renewed purpose when they embrace Jesus.
How Grace Transforms Lives
God’s grace is not just a concept; it’s an active force in our lives. It takes the broken, the weak, and the undeserving and turns them into vessels of His glory. The Bible is filled with examples of this: from the apostle Paul, a persecutor of Christians turned church leader, to countless others who found redemption and purpose in Jesus.
When we trust in God’s grace, we step into a transformative journey that renews our minds and reshapes our character. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This ongoing renewal brings us closer to the image of Christ, creating a life filled with hope, peace, and purpose.
Living as Priests and Saints
As believers, we are more than just followers of Christ; we are part of His divine family. We are called to be a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5), offering spiritual sacrifices and acting as agents of reconciliation between God and others. This is a high calling, one that empowers us to make an eternal impact on those around us.
Each of us has a ministry of reconciliation, a responsibility to share the love and grace we’ve received. Whether it’s through prayer, acts of kindness, or simply being present for someone in need, we participate in God’s redemptive work. Stories like the woman who found salvation in her final days remind us of the urgency and beauty of this mission.
Embracing Your New Identity
Becoming part of the God-man race means embracing a new identity rooted in Christ. This identity is not based on our performance but on His finished work. As Romans 6:14 promises, “Sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.”
Even in our struggles and failures, God’s grace is sufficient. He uses every experience to draw us closer to Him, shaping us into His image. As we grow in faith, we learn to rely on His strength, trust in His promises, and live with the assurance of His love and purpose for our lives.
Conclusion: Your Journey of Renewal Begins Here
The cross is more than a symbol; it’s the gateway to a transformed life. Through Jesus, we are offered forgiveness, freedom, and a fresh start. Whether you’ve been walking with God for years or are just beginning to explore faith, His grace is available to you right now.
So, where do you stand today? Are you ready to embrace this gift of grace and step into the life God has prepared for you? Take a moment to reflect, pray, and open your heart to Him. If you’re unsure where to begin, know that God’s invitation is simple: believe, trust, and follow Him.
Join us at City Church Rockford to continue this journey of faith. Together, we’ll celebrate the beauty of salvation, grow in understanding, and live as part of the God-man race—a family united by grace and purpose.
