Truth Over Trend - Part #1
Pastor Anthony Morehead
Part of Truth Over Trend
April 3, 2022

Intro

Today we are starting a new sermon series called, “Truth Over Trend”. Trends, beliefs, and ideas comes and go, and everyone - inside and outside the church - is influenced by them.

As followers of Christ, we should look to the Bible, not culture, for direction and purpose. We are to live a life that is engaged in culture, while not compromising what God has desired to do through us.

We are to be in this world, but not of this world.

What Is A Trend

  • Something that comes and goes.
  • Trends can shift at any moment for any reason.
  • A trend is flaky.

What Is Truth

Truth is something that is true at all times and in all places no matter what the circumstances. It is a fact that cannot be changed.

For example, there are no round squares and there are no square circles.

  • Before we can go any further as Christians we have to know that the Bible is an Absolute Truth…
    • The Bible is the infallible word of God. Every word written is inspired by God.
    • It is 100% trustworthy and it’s a road map to having a relationship with God.
    • It is a guide on how we should live as Christians and a clear direction to salvation.
    • We are to live a life that is grounded in it, knowing that it’s the very tool God uses to accomplish His purpose.

Founders Theory: Whenever you learn something for the first time that becomes your reference point.

  • What are we allowing ourselves to be introduced to on an ongoing bases?

    • If we are not careful we can become opinion and our preference based Christians.

  • Have you ever tried to look for ways to justify what you are doing?

    • That is not that big of a deal.
    • There’s no real harm in that.
    • That’s falls in the grey area.

  • As a youth pastor students would come to me and ask me to show them the exact scripture that says they can’t do what they were wanting to do.

    • I would respond with this, “Is that bringing you closer or further away from God?”

Adam and Eve Downfall

  • The apple became appealing, even through they knew God commanded them not to eat it.
    • THERE WERE NO GREY AREAS…. DON’T EAT THE APPLE!!!
    • They justified it to get what they were wanting.
  • That is no different than any trend of sin we see today.
    • We are willing to justify it to get what we are wanting.

3 Absolute, Non-negotiable Truths

1: Your Sins Have Been Forgiven & You Are A Child of God

  • There’s no way God would forgive me. If you only knew what I have done you would agree.
    • I have such good news for you.

There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. —Romans 8:1 (NLT)

Be confident in knowing God desires for you to be free of guilt and shame.

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. —Romans 8:38 (NLT)

Nothing means NOTHING… No grey areas.

2: No Weapon Turned Against You Will Succeed

No weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the LORD; their vindication will come from me.
I, the LORD, have spoken! —Isaiah 54:17 (NLT)

  • Vindication = Discharge, pardon, or be given clearance
    • You are serving the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is fighting on your behalf.
    • Satan will try to use whatever weapon on you that he can.

Do not conform to the pattern (TRENDS) of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. —Romans 12:2 (NIV)

3: The Promises of God Are Yes and Amen

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. —2 Corinthians 1:20 (NKJV)

Promises of God: You can take it to the bank. If He said it, He will do it. We serve a God that can not lie.
Amen: Let it be done
Glory: For God’s name & purpose

Resource

In the book, “Always True” by James Macdonald, He lists 5 promises when life is hard.

1: God is with me… I don’t have to FEAR
- Satan wants to use fear to distract you. As children of God we have to lean into God’s promises and replace fear with faith.

2: God is in control… I don’t have to DOUBT
- God is not offended if you have questions. He desires people to test His promises, and when they do, He will prove himself true. Even if the outcome is not what we have hoped. He is working things out for our good. Take heart and be encouraged.

3: God is good… I don’t have to be in DESPAIR
- The ultimate goodness of God is activated by faith. God’s promises become more meaningful in
times of difficulty.

4: God is watching over me… I don’t have to WORRY
- God will watch over you and guide you through every hard season… If we will trust Him.

5: God is victorious… I don’t have to GIVE UP
- If we will allow God to fight our battles we will be victorious. We can not fight spiritual battles alone.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. —John 16:33 (NIV)

  • People may ask, “How in the world did you make it through everything that you have been through?” - I did everything I could not to fear, because I knew God was with me.
    • I tried not to doubt, because I knew God was in control.
    • I kept my head above water the best I could, because I know God is good.
    • I reminded myself not to worry, because I knew God was watching over me.
    • I didn’t give up, because I serve a God who is victorious and has never lost a battle.

Close

  • Walk in confidence knowing that your sins are forgiven.
    • I hope you receive this truth today.
  • God has already paid the ultimate price when He sent His son Jesus to die on the cross.
    • Let the words, “It is finished” ring true in your heart.