APRIL – Resurrection Power: Living the RISEN Life

CELEBRATE EASTER SUNDAY AT 10:30 AM WITH COMMUNION, FAMILY PHOTO, EASTER MUSIC BY CHOIR! NO S.S.

SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY

Today, you are invited to embrace a message that unites two powerful truths: our brand-new identity in Christ and the breakthrough of His resurrection power. This isn’t just a sermon point—it is the living, explosive power of God within us through the Holy Spirit. When Jesus rose from the dead, He transformed us completely. Scripture tells us that we are new creations, freed from old labels, guilt, and shame. We are now born into a new life as forgiven, transformed children of God, citizens of heaven, filled with hope and destined for an eternal inheritance. Embracing this truth calls us to live with passion and to boldly step into the freedom and joy that God has prepared for us.

At the same time, we are called to cast off every chain of sin, fear, and past failure. Holding on to our old ways when Christ has already broken our chains is like choosing imprisonment when the door is wide open. The resurrection power we possess isn’t meant to be remembered only once a year—it must be lived and nurtured daily. True change comes when we surrender fully to God’s strength, letting go of self-reliance and embracing His grace. We are challenged to live boldly, stepping forward in faith and demonstrating the victorious power that raised Jesus so that every aspect of our lives reflects His transformative love and freedom. Let us fully trust in His mighty power and be the living testimony of resurrection life. May our every step shine as a beacon of hope, leading others into the freedom and joy of God’s kingdom.

GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.

Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart

EMBRACING YOUR NEW IDENTITY IN CHRIST

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

When Paul, once a fierce persecutor of the church, encountered Christ on the road to Damascus, his life was completely transformed. He left behind his former self and his past deeds to become a living testimony of the new identity found in Christ.

Understand that in Christ, your identity is not defined by your past mistakes or the labels imposed by the world. Instead, you are set free to live as a renewed creation, empowered by God’s promises. In Christ, you are:

• Forgiven and Redeemed: Your sins are washed away through Jesus’ sacrifice, making you a child of God with a spotless record (Romans 3:23-24).
• Loved and Accepted: You are cherished as God’s beloved, accepted unconditionally, and called His own (1 John 3:1).
• Transformed and Renewed: Just as Paul was transformed, you have the power to leave old habits and mindsets behind, stepping into a life of new possibilities (Ephesians 4:22-24).
• Empowered by the Holy Spirit: The same Spirit that raised Jesus lives in you, equipping you with divine strength to overcome challenges (Romans 8:11).
• A Citizen of Heaven: Your true home is in God’s eternal kingdom, and you carry with you an everlasting inheritance (Philippians 3:20).
• An Ambassador of Reconciliation: You have been given the task to share God’s love and message of hope with others (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Each morning, remind yourself of these truths. Write down or recite daily affirmations based on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and the characteristics listed above. Let these truths shape your thoughts and actions, guiding you throughout your day in confidence and purpose.

Imagine a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. Just as the caterpillar undergoes a complete change—emerging with vibrant wings and a new purpose—so do you emerge in Christ. Your old self is shed, and you step out with the beauty, strength, and destiny that God has designed for you.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I thank You for making me a new creation in Christ. Help me to leave behind every label of my past and to embrace the fullness of my identity as Your forgiven, loved, and empowered child. May I walk each day in the freedom and renewal of Your love, shining as a testament to Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS

Marynell Ford

Debbie Foskey

Mike, Gwen, Michael Rice Family – Friends of Blount’s – Car Accident

Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners – Much Better

Ann Stanley

Danny Jarrard 

Theresa Bain’s Granddaughter

Kim’s Sisters – Ann & Brenda

Angela Bryan’s Sister

Darlene Wiggins

David Newby

Doris Loyd

Dr. and Mrs. Davis

Eric Magnusson’s Mother

Eric Ward

Friend of Linda Hodge

Gayle Sparks

George & Linda Alexander 

George Calhoon

James Burnette

James Parker

Jessica Headrick

Jodi Bateman 

John McClain’s Mother

June Cronan’s Sister

June Davis

Kailey Bateman

Kathryn Raines

Kim McClain’s Mother 

Lee Cronan

Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom

Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah 

Lonzo Christian 

Lori Blount’s Mother

Mary William’s Granddaughter

Mary Williams

Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom

Mrs. Franklin 

Nora Allison

Pastor Driskell 

Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA

Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter

Scott Lanier 

Steve Michaels

Tom Witcher