Dying To Sin

Romans 6:15-23 confronts us with a profound truth: we will serve someone or something, whether we acknowledge it or not. This passage challenges the dangerous notion that grace gives us license to continue in sin, asking the piercing question: are we to sin because we're under grace rather than law? The answer rings clear—absolutely not. We're presented with only two masters: sin leading to death, or obedience leading to righteousness. There's no third option, no middle ground where we can blend worldly living with Christian faith. The transformation that comes through Christ isn't an addition to our existing life—it's a complete metamorphosis. We see this illustrated through the story of Elisha, who burned his oxen and plows, eliminating any possibility of retreat to his former life. Similarly, Jesus' disciples left their nets, their boats, and even their father immediately when called. This radical commitment stands in stark contrast to the lukewarm Christianity described in Revelation 3, where the church of Laodicea was neither hot nor cold, prompting Christ to say He would spit them from His mouth. The parable of the sower reminds us that only one in four who hear the word will produce lasting fruit. The question we must wrestle with is this: which soil are we? Are we clinging to escape plans and old relationships that keep us tethered to our former slavery, or are we willing to take that first step of obedience, trusting God will reveal the next?

### Sermon Notes

**Scripture**: Romans 6:15-23

**Introduction**: 

- Rick, a pastor at Hope Church, continues the study of Romans, focusing on Romans 6. 

- Reminder that they preach through books of the Bible, emphasizing the importance of scripture-based preaching.

**Key Points**:

1. **Understanding Sin and Grace**:

  - The question Paul raises: Are we to sin because we are under grace, not the law?

  - Emphasis on morality within the law and grace.

2. **Analogy of Slavery**:

  - Paul uses the analogy of being slaves to sin versus slaves to righteousness.

  - Bob Dylan's illustration: "You gotta serve somebody."

3. **Transformation through Salvation**:

  - Christianity is not just an addition but a transformation of life.

  - The old self versus the new self: Embrace becoming a slave to righteousness.

4. **Challenges in Christian Walk**:

  - Temptation to mix worldly views and new belief systems with Christianity.

  - Importance of separating from past sinful lifestyles and friendships.

5. **Practical Illustrations**:

  - Rick's personal testimony about radical change after accepting Christ.

  - Importance of cutting off past connections that hinder spiritual growth.

6. **Reasons for Struggling with Sin**:

  - Continually resurrecting old sinful behaviors.

  - Lack of suffering or commitment in serving God wholeheartedly.

  - Not eliminating the past life entirely.

7. **Biblical References to Commitment**:

  - Examples of Elisha burning his plow and the disciples leaving everything to follow Jesus.

  - The rich young ruler's story: Heart's attachment to possessions.

8. **Fruit of Righteousness**:

  - Encouragement to analyze life for spiritual fruit.

  - Belonging entirely to Christ results in sanctification and eternal life.

**Practical Applications**:

1. **Cut Ties with Sin**: 

  - Identify and remove old habits and relationships that hinder spiritual growth.

2. **Embrace Transformation**: 

  - Acknowledge that faith in Christ leads to a completely changed life, not just an addition to current beliefs.

3. **Serve with Zeal**: 

  - Dedicate the same energy formerly given to sin towards serving God.

4. **Evaluate Your Life**: 

  - Regularly assess if your life reflects the fruit of righteousness or if it's still tied to the old self.

5. **Take Steps of Faith**: 

  - Listen for God's direction and take incremental steps towards fulfilling His call.

**Discussion Questions**:

1. How does understanding that we are under grace, not the law, change your perspective on sin and righteousness?

2. What are some steps you can take to ensure you're living as a "slave to righteousness" rather than a slave to sin?

3. Are there aspects of your past life that you are still holding onto, and how can you fully commit them to God?

4. How has your commitment to Christ transformed your everyday life and decisions?

5. Discuss a time when taking a small step of faith led to a significant spiritual victory or growth in your life.