Let It Die

01/12/2024 - Matthew Destry

John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

John 12:24 – “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”

The Good Shepherd and Death

  • Jesus ties His goodness to His willingness to die for us.
  • True fruitfulness requires death.

Three Theologies of Success

  1. Worm Theology: Fear of failure or rejection keeps us stuck.
    • Romans 8:1 – No condemnation in Christ.
    • Psalm 139:14 – Fearfully and wonderfully made.
  1. World Theology: Endless growth is idolised.
    • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – A time for every season.
    • Matthew 16:26 – Don’t gain the world and lose your soul.
  1. Christ Theology: True success begins with surrender.
    • Philippians 2:5-8 – Humility leads to exaltation.

III. Application: What Needs to Die?

  1. Mindsets: Pride, fear, or insecurity.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust the Lord’s way.

  1. Seasons of Life: Recognise when to move forward.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – A time for everything.

  1. Relationships: Let go of toxicity and unforgiveness.

Colossians 3:13 – Forgive as Christ forgave you.

  1. Habits/Worldviews: Step away from unproductive patterns.

Romans 12:2 – Be transformed by renewing your mind.

  1. Four Forms of Death in the Christian Life
    1. Persuasion: Using words, not force.
    2. Prayer: Acknowledging dependence on God.
    3. Service: Taking a lower place.
    4. Suffering: Embracing God’s redemption through pain.

Romans 5:3-5 – Suffering produces hope.

  1. Encouragement and Challenge

Trust the Good Shepherd who leads through death into resurrection life.

Reflection: What needs to die in your life for new fruit to grow?

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”

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