Twsited: The Video

No, the video itself isn't twisted - its just the introduction played before each of the Twisted series of sermons.

Twisted: Love and Lust - 1 John 3:16-20

If there is one amazing gift that God has given us, it is love. But, not the idea of love that we have become so accustomed to. God's love is more than just romantic feelings or a strong desire or the devotion of Romeo and Juliet. God's love is sacrifice, it thinks of others before self in many ways it is contrary to what we know as love. Of course God's greatest gift is the adversary's greatest weapon.

• Love means Sacrifice
• v16 - This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers
  
• Real Love is Physical
• v18 - Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
  
• Real Love is not Risky - It Removes Risk
• v20 - For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything
  

Twisted: Freedom and Slavery - John 8:31-36

What does it mean to be free? Sometimes we think it means we can do whatever we want - but that is way too selfish of an attitude. Freedom gives us the ability to do for others instead of simply looking out for ourselves. Self-Focus leads to sin and slavery, sacrifice leads to freedom.

• Freedom Isn't Free
• If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. - v36
• Freedom is a Choice
• Everyone who sins is a slave to sin. -v34
• Freedom is a Lifestyle
• Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. -v32
• If you hold to my teaching, you are truly my disciples. -v31
  

Keep Your Eyes on the Goal - 1 Peter 2:4-12

Life is filled with temptations and distractions. Advertisements, homework, tv, internet, magazines, and other people all clamor for our attention and focus. These things all work together to keep us from what is most important - working towards the spiritual goal that God has set before all of mankind. Peter reminds his readers about the simplicity of life and reminds them to Keep their Eyes on the Goal.

• We have a team - v5, bricks in a spiritual house
• We have a goal - v5, to offer spiritual sacrifices
• We have rules - v8, the message we were destined for
• Keep Your Eyes on the Goal - v9
• Leave the Past Behind - v10, once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy
• Know Your Team - v11, live as aliens and strangers in the world
• Check Your Heart - v11, abstain from sinful desires
• Follow the Rules - v12, live such good lives that pagans glorify God

Originally presented February 11, 2007.