What does it really mean to be a disciple of Jesus?

In this message, you'll discover practical, biblical steps to grow as a disciple of Jesus and learn how to put your faith into action in your everyday life. Whether you're new to following Christ or have been walking with Him for years, this sermon will encourage you to take your next step in becoming more like Jesus.

We've just come out of a season of exchanges — gifts, decorations, food, and time off. We give and we get. But the greatest exchange we can ever make isn't found under a tree or wrapped in paper.

It's The Great Exchange.

The one where we give up our way of doing things — our sin patterns, our personal philosophies, our attempts to control our own lives — and in return, we receive the righteousness of Christ. As 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

But here's the thing: The Great Exchange isn't a one-time transaction. It's not something we do once and then we're "all set." Martin Luther called it "simul justus et peccator" — at the same time justified and a sinner. We are clothed with God's righteousness, but we are still flawed people who need to continually surrender to Him.

So as we step into a new year, the question isn't just "Have I made The Great Exchange?" but "What am I still holding onto that I need to hand over?" It's time to throw off everything that hinders, fix our eyes on Jesus, and run the race He's marked out for us.