Changed From the Inside Out

How does a Christian actually change?Is transformation simply a matter of trying harder, developing better habits, finding accountability, or learning to accept yourself as you are? In this episode of The Gospel Forum, Dan, Shawn, and Micah begin a new series on biblical transformation by going back to the foundation: **regeneration**.Before genuine spiritual change can take place, God must first give us life. Drawing especially from Ezekiel 36, Titus 3, John 3, and Ephesians 2, we discuss what it means to receive a new heart and the Holy Spirit—and why true Christian transformation is much deeper than outward behavior modification.We also talk about how the Spirit changes our desires and affections, the relationship between regeneration and sanctification, why obedience still matters, and how God uses the ordinary means of grace to grow His people.**In this episode:**• Why self-help and willpower cannot produce true spiritual change• What regeneration means• The difference between outward behavior modification and heart change• Ezekiel 36 and the promise of a new heart• The heart of stone and the heart of flesh• How the Holy Spirit changes our desires and affections• Why sin is ultimately a matter of misplaced worship• The Christian’s responsibility in sanctification• Lazarus as a picture of new life leading to a new walk• The importance of Scripture, prayer, the local church, the ordinances, and repentance• What to do when you feel like you simply cannot change**Scripture discussed:**Ezekiel 36:22–27John 3Ephesians 2Titus 3:4–6Ephesians 2:10Questions or comments? Email us (mailto:[email protected])**Subscribe for more conversations about doctrine, the local church, and living the Christian life.0:00 Introduction — Shawn Is Back!3:04 Why Is Change So Hard?7:42 How Does God Actually Change a Person?8:14 Regeneration: From Death to Life12:33 Ezekiel 36 — A New Heart and a New Spirit15:31 Heart of Stone vs. Heart of Flesh18:17 How Does Regeneration Happen?20:18 Regeneration Before Sanctification21:19 The Holy Spirit Changes Our Affections24:23 Ketchup, Anger, and the Heart25:49 Sin as Misplaced Worship26:30 “Let Go and Let God?”27:11 Lazarus and Our New Identity in Christ31:28 How Are You Trying to Change?32:31 The Ordinary Means of Grace33:47 Repentance and Humility34:30 What If I Haven’t Changed?35:07 Where We Go Next