Scripture References: 1 John 1:5-6; 1 John 1:8; Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 4:12; Genesis 3

Intro: Continuing our series in 1 John, we explore the call to walk in the light (1 John 1:5-6). Today's message is a personal testimony, reflecting on how God's living Word (Heb 4:12) illuminated a hidden reality. It's a journey from perceived righteousness to confronting hidden sin, and finding the true gospel wasn't what was initially lived out.

Key Points:

1. The Facade of Works: Grew up in church, active in charismatic practices, missions (YWAM), youth ministry. Equated spiritual experiences and activities (gifts, worship highs, evangelism) with evidence of being near God and being a "good Christian." Intellectually knew the gospel of grace, but internalized and lived from a gospel of works – doing the right things to be accepted.
2. The Revealing Vision: A vivid image came: a perfect china doll face (self-perception) peeling away to reveal rotten, decaying flesh underneath. This was a merciful revelation of hidden sinful nature, previously denied ("I don't sin"). Exposed self-righteousness despite years of "serving God." (Reflects 1 John 1:8 - deceiving ourselves).
3. Disillusionment and Clinging: This exposure led to confusion, anger, grief, feeling like a fraud. Wanted to walk away from the version of Christianity experienced. Importantly, felt self-condemned but never God-condemned. Despite the turmoil, a core love for Jesus remained, becoming the only anchor.
4. Rebuilding on Grace: Began relearning the true biblical gospel: salvation by grace through faith, not works (Eph 2:8-9). Found resonance and answers in church history and theology, realizing core faith questions aren't new. Sought a sustainable, genuine devotion based on truth, not just fleeting experiences.
5. Communion's True Meaning: Previously meaningless, communion now connects to Genesis 3. Adam/Eve hiding behind fig leaves (self-effort/covering) had to be exposed before God mercifully clothed them with animal skins (grace/sacrifice). Communion is embodying this: confessing our inability to save ourselves (taking off fig leaves) and receiving Christ's perfect sacrifice (His covering) again and again.

Conclusion: The journey from a works-based faith, hidden behind a facade of "goodness," involved a painful but necessary confrontation with personal sinfulness. True freedom isn't found in trying harder but in confessing our need and receiving the gift of grace through Christ's finished work. Salvation is God's gift, not our achievement.

Call to Action: Honestly examine your own heart: Are you relying on your works and experiences for acceptance, or resting purely in God's grace? Embrace confession, not as condemnation, but as the path to receiving the freedom and true covering found only in Jesus. Approach communion as a tangible act of receiving this unearned gift.

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With Katelynn Martin

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