The Renewed Mind
The sermon emphasizes the importance of controlling our thoughts to shape our character and renew our minds according to God's will.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the significance of a renewed mind in his sermon, urging listeners to analyze their thoughts and recognize the impact of both good and bad thinking on their character. He explains that our thoughts shape who we are, as the heart reveals itself through our words and actions. Epp encourages the congregation to focus on spiritual and positive thoughts to build a strong character, while warning against the dangers of negative thinking that leads to deterioration. He highlights the transformative power of renewing the mind as a means to align with God's will.
Text
Philippians 4:8,9; 2 Peter 1: 1-9
A good exercise is to analyze the kind of thoughts you have been thinking. Some will be spiritual thoughts that make a positive contribution to life, others will be thoughts about things that are not necessarily good or bad, and there will be thoughts that are definitely bad--and you realize this without anyone's telling you so. The quickest way to deteriorate or to degenerate is to allow your mind to be occupied with unworthy thoughts. We soon become what we think. Thinking good thoughts contributes to building character; thinking bad thoughts leads downward.
Jesus explained that the mouth really reveals what is in the heart: "The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart" (Luke 6:45, NASB). What the conscious mind thinks on gradually sinks into the subconscious mind and becomes the building blocks, or material, for one's character. "For as he thinks within himself, so he is" (Prov. 23:7, NASB).
We can make a positive contribution to our subconscious mind by controlling the thoughts of our conscious mind. But when we think selfishly, covetously, jealously and lustfully, these characteristics will become evident in our character.
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God" (Rom. 12:2).
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Thoughts
- The Connection Between Thoughts and Character
- The Role of the Subconscious Mind
- Renewing the Mind
- Controlling conscious thoughts to shape character
- Transformed by the renewing of the mind
Key Quotes
“We soon become what we think.” — Theodore Epp
“For as he thinks within himself, so he is.” — Theodore Epp
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Be mindful of your thoughts and their impact on your character.
- Renew your mind by controlling your thoughts and focusing on good things.
- Transform your character by being transformed by the renewing of your mind.