(2 Corinthians 3:12~18)
12 Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
13 We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away.
14 But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away.
15 Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts.
16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.
17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
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<A church growing in mature, godly believers>
A "deep" church is not merely one with a large congregation, but one filled with "mature believers (godly adults)" who resemble Jesus. While Scripture teaches that bearing the fruit of "sanctification"—the process of becoming more like Christ—is God's will, modern churches often face a significant gap between biblical teaching and reality.
The driving forces behind sanctification are the "Means of Grace" and "Community." Sanctification is achieved through God's grace, not human willpower. However, to enjoy that grace, believers must diligently use the tools God has provided: preaching, Bible reading, prayer (QT), and life studies. Furthermore, the role of community is vital. Just as a home environment shapes one’s character, the spiritual community of the church is where sins like pride and envy are addressed, leading to true maturity.
Today, I would like to share specifically about preaching that beholds the glory of the Lord. In 2 Corinthians 3, the Apostle Paul explains the principle of sanctification through the event of the radiance on Moses’ face. Just as Moses’ face shone when he encountered God's glory, believers are transformed into the likeness of the Lord as they continually gaze upon His glory.
In this process, preaching is paramount. Deep preaching does not merely offer emotional touching; it shines the light of the glorious knowledge of God. It empowers seekers (VIPs) to accept the Gospel and enables believers to pursue transformation through grace. Through preaching, believers realize the greatness of God and experience holy change.
However, just as the Israelites feared the radiance of Moses because of their sin (the golden calf) and covered it with a veil, treating sin lightly robs us of the opportunity to see God’s glory. If we give up the fight against sin, no practical change will occur, even if we use the means of grace.
Therefore, sanctification is a task for every member of the church. To that end:
1) Please pray for the holiness of the preacher. The sermon and the preacher's life cannot be separated. Before being a professional of the pulpit, a pastor must be a model of holiness in all areas of life. Please pray that Pastor Choi Dae-yeol and I may live according to what we preach.
2) Like the Bereans, receive the Word with great eagerness and live a life of transformation by relying on Jesus, who gives us the power to live it out.
Conclusion: The Two Wings of Conversion and Sanctification
A deep church is one where "deep conversion" and "deep sanctification" go hand in hand. The work of conversion happens within a community where true godliness is alive, and those who are converted then walk the path of sanctification. This year, I hope we become a church that moves beyond superficiality and soars toward the glory of the Lord by pursuing holiness.