You Gotta Know Before You Go

Here I Am, Send Me
November 16, 2025

Download PDF

Scriptures

KEY POINTS

  • We are chosen and seen by God. Before we were born, God chose us and predestined us for adoption.
  • We have been made holy and blameless through Christ’s sacrifice, not our own efforts. Salvation is by grace through faith alone, not by works, so no one can boast.
  • Our salvation is secure. We are sealed with the Holy Spirit and have a guaranteed eternal inheritance.
  • We are not defined by our past. We are forgiven, redeemed, and made new in Christ.
  • We are God’s “workmanship” (ποίημα/poiéma/masterpiece), created for good works that He prepared beforehand.
  • Understanding our secure position in Christ gives us confidence to serve without fear of rejection or inadequacy.
  • Grace precedes mission. We must understand who we are in Christ before we can effectively serve Him.
  • We are seated with Christ in heavenly places, fully accepted and beloved.
  • The forgiveness we receive should free us from shame and empower us for mission.

DISCUSSION

  • Pastor Bob outlined 12 things we have in Christ. Which is hardest to believe about yourself and why?
    • Chosen before the foundation of the world
    • Called to live holy and blameless
    • Adopted into God’s family
    • Accepted and beloved in Christ
    • Redeemed by His blood
    • Forgiven of all trespasses
    • Lavishly covered by grace and wisdom
    • Given revelation of God’s will
    • Made heirs with Christ
    • Predestined according to His purpose
    • Sealed with the Holy Spirit
    • Guaranteed an eternal inheritance
  • What trials in your life have unexpectedly deepened your understanding of God’s love or revealed new dimensions of faith?
  • Do you struggle to truly believe you are forgiven and redeemed? What do you think is holding you in the ‘swamp of shame’ and keeping you from living in your new identity?
  • The sermon contrasts being ‘dead in trespasses’ with being ‘seated with Christ in heavenly places’ – how should this radical transformation affect the way we treat others who are still walking in spiritual death?
  • Why do you think that is important to know your position in Christ before being commissioned?