were alienated from God and were enemies in

“were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. ” As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. (2: 1 -3)

For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. (Romans 1: 21 -23)

Denial – “I didn’t do anything wrong” Diversion – “everyone is doing it. ” or “What gives you the right to call me a sinner? ” Repression – We avoid any value judgment at all. Rationalization –“you know it’s not like it’s stealing. . . the insurance company expects to pay this money and, after all, they can afford it. ” Renaming – If we call our sin something else, then it doesn’t seem so sinful anymore.

So, adultery becomes a “fling”; Lying becomes “sparing another the painful truth”; Gluttony becomes “eating too well”; Greed becomes “seeking God’s abundance”. A divisive spirit becomes “sharing my concerns”.

“Now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. ” “if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. ” “this is the gospel you have heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. ”

First, it’s possible that you have heard the gospel but, have never taken the time to make a decision regarding the Simple truth proclaimed. Second, for faithful Christians it is important that we take time regularly to remind ourselves of where we have been.

Insert Song – And Can it Be – All Verses then Chorus

Third, understand how important it is to renew your mind. In Romans 12 Paul tells us, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is. ” Finally, I challenge you to make it a practice to be honest with yourself.