Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:18 — 32.3MB)
March 23, 2025
- Proverbs 3:5-6
- Romans 12:1
- James 4:10
- Romans 13:4
- Hebrews 12:1
- 1 Corinthians 15:33
- Hebrews 4:16
- Hebrews 10:25
Pastor Gene’s sermon focuses on transformation and surrender to God. He begins by challenging the congregation with the question, “Why not me?”—emphasizing that anyone can be used by God if they commit to heart change. He highlights that true transformation starts with a change of heart, which then influences the mind and ultimately behavior.
Using the metaphor of a police arrest, he stresses the need to surrender completely to God, laying down anything we prioritize above Him. He references Proverbs 3:5-6 and Romans 12:1, urging believers to trust in the Lord and present themselves as living sacrifices.
Pastor Gene also uses the analogy of a lifeguard waiting for a drowning person to stop struggling before rescuing them, illustrating how Jesus waits for us to surrender so He can lift us up. He warns against self-reliance, addictions, and misplaced priorities, urging people to “lay it down” before God.
The second part of the sermon focuses on “filling the gap.” He explains that when we remove bad habits or influences, we must replace them with Godly habits, or else unhealthy patterns will return. He warns against merely appearing spiritual without real transformation, emphasizing the need to feed our minds with scripture, worship, and uplifting community.
Pastor Gene challenges listeners to make small daily improvements, recognizing that spiritual growth is a marathon, not a sprint. He encourages believers to surround themselves with people who uplift them, avoid toxic influences, and be intentional about their spiritual input. He closes by urging those ready to commit to Jesus to make a decision for Christ, leading them in a salvation prayer.
The overarching message is one of surrender, transformation, and daily intentional growth in faith.