The Key to Becoming More Like Christ (It's Not Effort)

Summer of Spiritual Strength: What Spiritual Growth Is and Where It Begins

Pastor Josh introduces a summer sermon series, “Summer of Spiritual Strength,” explaining that spiritual growth is being conformed to the image of Christ rather than merely attending church, reading the Bible, praying, or serving. Using Romans 8:29, he defines growth as becoming more Christ-like in actions, words, responses, and attitudes, and teaches that true growth happens through the Holy Spirit, not human effort. He begins with Ephesians 2:1–10 to show the starting point of spiritual growth: salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, moving from spiritual death to life, and then producing good works as God’s workmanship. He contrasts walking in the world and flesh with walking in the Spirit, using Galatians 5 to highlight the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit as a gauge of growth, emphasizing the Spirit’s conviction, teaching, comfort, and guidance.

00:00 Series Kickoff
01:10 Defining Spiritual Growth
02:29 Romans Eight Explained
05:11 Growth Starts Salvation
07:16 Before Christ Dead
08:40 World Flesh Pride
13:51 But God Mercy
18:31 Grace Through Faith
21:14 Workmanship Good Works
24:07 Walking In Spirit
25:52 Flesh Versus Spirit
26:19 Works Of The Flesh
27:01 Fruit Of The Spirit
28:18 Testing Your Walk
29:11 Choices Not Circumstance
30:33 Navigating Obstacles
31:34 Putting Off And On
32:50 Conviction And Teaching
35:26 Comfort And Confidence
39:39 Maturity And Serving
41:49 Trust Gods Directions
44:22 Pass It On
46:22 Bible For Growth
47:23 Prayer And Closing