This document contains summaries of two Bible passages, reflection questions on being made new in Christ, and a prayer. The passages discuss how we should no longer view others or Christ based on outward appearances but on their spiritual nature, and how Christ is the image of God, creator of all, and reconciler through his death on the cross. The reflection questions prompt examining what we try to add to God's grace, our focus on performance over relationship with God, and supporting others on their spiritual journeys.

1. Sermon Texts
From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even
though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him
thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The
old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
2 Cor. 5.16-17, ESV
He [Christ] us the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.
For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and
invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things
were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in
him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church.
He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he
might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to
dwell, and through him to reconcile all things, whether on earth or in
heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
Colossians 1:15-20 ESV
Reflection Questions
1. Jesus + Something = Nothing. What are you tempted to add to God’s grace in order
to prove yourself to God or someone else? Can you lay that something at the feet
of God in prayer and begin to let it go? Start now.
2. How have you bought into the “be more, do more, try harder” gospel? When was
the last time you spend leisurely time with God in prayer and in the Scripture? What
one concrete action can you take to free up time for God?
3. Tim Keller explains the Good News: “We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than
we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted
in Jesus Christ than we ever dare hope.” Spend a few minutes reflecting on this
message. How deeply aware are you of your own sin? How deeply aware are you of
God’s great goodness and grace to you in Christ? As the Holy Spirit to give you both
a sense of your sin and assurance of grace in Christ Jesus.
4. There are no ordinary people. Consider the people you spend the most time with.
Pray for them, consider their spiritual journey, and ask God how you can support and
care for them.
Prayer
Going Deeper “Appearances can be deceiving” | Jeff Gissing | February 5-6, 2016
O LORD, strengthen our faith; kindle it more in ferventness and love towards thee, and our
neighbours, for thy sake. Suffer us not, most dear Father, to receive thy word any more in
vain; but grant us always the assistance of thy grace and Holy Spirit, that in heart, word,
and deed, we may sanctify and do worship to thy name.
Amen.
John Knox (1513-1572)