Transparency Works
SERMON FROM APRIL 5, 2020
There are times when instruction needs to intersect with real felt needs. What does it look like if Jesus influenced our actions and our relationships?
Looking at Romans 12:2 and selected passages, Pastor Dan Brenton continues our series on relationships. It's very easy to conform ourselves during normal, busy times. But to be "transformed" is something that we can't do on our own. That is an action that happens only by God's work.
Our words can do great good or great damage. There is nothing more evident to where our heart is than how our speech is influenced by the world. To tame our tongue is a transformative work that only God can do through Jesus Christ.
Sermon Outline: Transparency Works
Romans 12:2
What were your original dreams for your family?
We live out of an I rather than a We.
When dreams for our families are challenged:
we give up on our dreams
we get out and find a new dream
we grab hold of God’s dream
Communication is one of the greatest gifts God has given us.
5 Levels of Communication
Level one = Cliché
Level two = Fact
Level three = Opinion
Level four = Emotion
Level five = Transparency
Why does communication get difficult?
Proverbs 18:21
James 3:5-8
Our Objective: Create a safe place to share who we are.
James 1:19
Listen Carefully
Give focused attention
Avoid trying to fix a person
Feel what the other person is feeling
Don’t react
Summarize what you are hearing
Express Clearly
Think before you speak
Ask when would be a good time
Share your heart
Beware! Anger sabotages vulnerability
Pay attention to your body language
1Peter 3:9