Andy Kirk takes us on a road to getting rid of self in a world where self is the 'most important.' Check out this months episode with us.
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Show Notes:
The notion is that as we are called to express the Image of God as we live out the Mission of God
Augustine grappled with a fundamental question that many of us have pondered:
"Who put this will in me?"
The evolution of the self though is a fascinating journey.
Augustine's introspection initiated the concept of the self as a stable, enduring reality that defines an individual.
This psychological perspective, rooted in the concept of self, contributed to frameworks like Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and was further developed by thinkers like Michel de Montaigne, who explored the autobiographical self.
19th Century German writer GRENZ asked- “What happens when the concept of the infinite within the finite, on which the self-expressive self relies for stability and overcoming its particularity, proves to be an unstable center?"
Or to say another way “What happens when SELF is at the Centre?”
This crisis gave birth to the postmodern self, characterised by the loss of self and the embrace of its demise.
A famous theologian put it this way-
“The intended working of God’s mission through the world then is ‘the shalom of God outworking by the flourishing of his creation’
This Shalom of God can’t be expressed when self is at the centre as it needs us to reflect and show the love of God
Ron Sider says it this way
“in many crucial areas evangelicals are not living any differently from their unbelieving neighbours.” The consequences of this on our witness to Jesus Christ are incalculable.
PEOPLE ARE OUR PURPOSE
So how do be as leaders balance this notion of expressing the Misso Die or Mission of God as we reflect the Imago Dei or Image of God?
[James 1:22-24 NIV].
1- Self-Control through His Strength:
Scripture:
Galatians 5:22-23
Message:
We need God's Spirit to renew our self-control. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and it's only by walking in the Spirit that we can exercise true self-control. When we depend on God's strength, we can resist temptation and respond with self-control.
2- Self-Belief through His Promises:
Scripture:
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Message:
Our self-belief is renewed by trusting in God's promises. In Isaiah, He reassures us that His presence strengthens and upholds us. When we place our faith in His steadfast promises, we can overcome self-doubt and face the future with renewed self-belief.
3- Self-Esteem through His Unconditional Love:
Scripture:
1 John 3:1 (NIV)
Message:
We need God's unconditional love to renew our self-esteem. His love is lavished upon us, and when we see ourselves as His beloved children, our self-esteem is rejuvenated. We are His, and this truth elevates our sense of self-worth.
4- Self-Worth through His Redemption:
Scripture:
Ephesians 1:7 (NIV)
Message:
Our self-worth is renewed through God's redemption. We are made worthy through Christ's sacrifice, and His grace provides the foundation for our self-worth. When we accept His redemption, we find our worth renewed in Him.
5- Self-Awareness through His Word:
Scripture:
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
Message:
Self-awareness is renewed through God's Word. His Word is living and powerful, revealing the deepest parts of our being. When we immerse ourselves in His Word, we gain insight and self-awareness, leading to personal growth and transformation.