Teaching summary
In this sermon, Pastor Leonard Rola emphasizes the necessity of repentance (metanoia) as a shift from living by the flesh to living by faith. He explains that prosperity, health, and the abundant life Jesus promised are tied to the renewal of the mind and aligning with the truth of God's Word. Walking in faith, rather than being led by the five senses, leads to transformation and experiencing the fullness of God’s blessings.
Bible verses referenced
Ephesians 1:3 – "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ."
2 Peter 1:3 – "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue."
Ephesians 3:20 – "Now unto him that can do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us."
Romans 6:4-5 – "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection."
Galatians 2:20 – "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
2 Corinthians 5:21 – "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him."
Romans 8:11 – "But if the Spirit of him that raised Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you."
1 John 4:17 – "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world."
1 Corinthians 2:12 – "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God."
John 10:10 – "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly."
3 John 1:2-4 – "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."
Romans 12:2 – "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."
Ephesians 4:23 – "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind."
Colossians 3:1-2 – "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
Philippians 4:8 – "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Teaching notes
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Pastor Lori’s Absence and Ministry Updates
- Understanding Our Spiritual Blessings in Christ
- Being United with Christ in Death and Resurrection
- Walking by Faith and Not by Sight
- Prosperity and Soul Renewal
- The Meaning of Metanoia (Repentance) in the Greek
- Transforming the Mind to Walk in Agreement with God
- The Example of Jesus in the Wilderness
- Living in the Fullness of God's Blessings
Introduction: Pastor Lori’s Absence and Ministry Updates
Pastor Leonard Rola begins by sharing that Pastor Lori is away visiting their daughter and grandson. He expresses gratitude for the support of their audience and updates them on upcoming ministry sessions.
Understanding Our Spiritual Blessings in Christ
Pastor Leonard revisits his Sunday sermon on walking in abundance. He highlights Ephesians 1:3 : "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." He explains that we already have access to every spiritual blessing, and we must walk in faith to experience them.
Being United with Christ in Death and Resurrection
Using Romans 6:4-5, he teaches that believers are united with Christ’s death and resurrection: "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death…" This unity means we walk in newness of life and righteousness.
Walking by Faith and Not by Sight
Pastor Leonard explains how natural senses dominate human perception. He cites 2 Corinthians 5:7: "For we walk by faith, not by sight." He warns against waiting for physical confirmation before believing God’s promises.
Prosperity and Soul Renewal
3 John 1:2-4 reveals that prosperity is linked to soul prosperity: "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." Mind renewal determines how much of God’s blessings manifest in our lives.
The Meaning of Metanoia (Repentance) in the Greek
Pastor Leonard explains that "repentance" (metanoia) means changing one’s mind and direction. He emphasizes faith-based living over reliance on the five senses.
Transforming the Mind to Walk in Agreement with God
Quoting Romans 12: he teaches that transformation happens through mind renewal: "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." He encourages believers to set their minds on the Word.
The Example of Jesus in the Wilderness
Jesus demonstrated walking by faith when tempted in the wilderness. Matthew 4:4 states: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." Jesus relied on God’s truth over physical needs.
Living in the Fullness of God's Blessings
Pastor Leonard concludes by urging believers to embrace faith, experience transformation, and walk in the fullness of God’s blessings.
We hope this message has blessed you. As you renew your mind and walk by faith, you will experience the abundance God has already provided. Share this teaching with others and continue growing in grace!