Symbolism - The Cleansing | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | One Church Columbus

The Cleansing | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | One Church Columbus

ICEBREAKER:

How did you see God move this last week?

Summary:

In times of chaos and uncertainty, Scripture invites us to turn our gaze to Jesus, the Savior who brings order, cleansing, and lasting peace. Water often appears as a symbol of chaos or purification in the Bible. This study invites us to reflect on how Jesus meets us in the storms, calms the turbulence within us, and invites us into a life defined by trust, obedience, and spiritual renewal.

Key Points

  1. Chaos is a common human experience: Storms—literal or figurative—reveal our need for stability beyond ourselves.

  2. Jesus is present in the storm: Jesus isn’t distant; He enters the chaos with us and has authority over it.

  3. Jesus brings peace, not merely relief: Peace with God changes how we respond to turmoil.

  4. Water as cleansing and renewal: Water in Scripture often signals purification, new life, and spiritual cleansing through faith in Christ.

  5. Our response of faith and worship: Trust in Jesus leads to humility, worship, and transformed behavior.

    • Scripture References

    • Matthew 8:23-27 (Jesus calms the storm)

    • Mark 4:35-41 (Jesus rebukes the wind and waves)

    • Psalm 46:1-3 (God is our refuge and strength)

    • John 7:37-39 (Jesus as the source of living water)

    • 1 Peter 3:18-22 (Baptism and cleansing through Christ)

Conclusion:

In the midst of life’s storms, the Bible invites us to look beyond our own efforts and fix our eyes on Jesus, the one who calms the chaos and washes us with his transformative grace. Through the imagery of water—symbolizing both turmoil and purification—we learn that true peace comes not from avoiding trouble but from anchoring our hearts in Him, trusting His presence, authority, and promise of living water. As we respond with faith and worship, we invite God’s renewing work into every area of our lives, walking forward with courage, humility, and a renewed longing for His surrendered peace.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In what ways have you experienced storms in life where you felt overwhelmed? How does recognizing Jesus’ presence in those moments change your response?

  2. Water is a recurring symbol in the Bible for cleansing and renewal. How does Jesus’ offer of living water influence your view of personal renewal and sin? What steps can you take this week to pursue spiritual cleansing through Him?

  3. In Matthew 8:23-27, the disciples wake Jesus, questioning, “Lord, save us!” What does this reveal about their understanding of Jesus’ identity, and how does it challenge or affirm your own beliefs about Him?

  4. In John 7:37-39, Jesus speaks of living water and the Spirit. How does receiving the Spirit transform the way you experience thirst, longing, and purpose in daily life?

Guided Prayer:

Dear God, we come before You recognizing that in the midst of life’s storms, You are our steady anchor. Thank You for Your presence that calms the chaotic seas and for the living water of Your Spirit that sustains and renews us. Help us to release our fears and place our trust fully in Jesus, who holds the winds and waves in His hands. Fill us with Your peace that surpasses understanding, and guide our steps as we seek Your wisdom in every moment of turmoil. Thank You for cleansing and renewing us through Christ, and for the daily grace that invites us to drink deeply of Your love. Empower us to live with faith, humility, and courage, reflecting Your light in a world that needs hope. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

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