New Hearts, New Desires — How God Proves Himself to an Unbelieving World
New Hearts, New Desires — How God Proves Himself to an Unbelieving World
Ezekiel 36:22–28
In over 17 years of full‑time ministry, I’ve taken two weeks off every July, and this summer was no exception. It was both restful and restorative—thank you for your prayers and encouragement. Returning to the pulpit, I feel a bit rusty, but I’m deeply grateful for this congregation. Your growth—from 35 signups to over 113 for our “Dinner in the Park”—is a sign of something God is doing in and through you. Our church is situated in a region experiencing rapid growth, and we believe God has placed us here to reach and disciple those moving into our neighborhoods.
God Is Misunderstood
My central thesis today is this: God is the most misunderstood being in the universe. Whether through misrepresentation by others or misunderstanding even within the church, God’s character is frequently obscured. Yet, He consistently steps in to reveal Himself.
Ezekiel 36:22–28 and the Promise of the New Covenant
The passage in Ezekiel 36 unveils a transformative vision: God’s intention to restore His reputation by forgiving sin, giving a new heart, and placing His Spirit within His people. Though the term “covenant” appears in Jeremiah 31, Ezekiel communicates the same truth—God’s irreversible plan for renewal.
1. Forgiveness of Sin
Ezekiel 36:25 says, “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean…” This symbolizes cleansing—God removing sin completely. Picture a hot tub filled with dirt after a day of hiking: once the water clears, the grime becomes visible and repulsive. Sin, though forgiven, should stir in us a healthy disgust—not condemnation, but gratitude. As Timothy Biddle memorably put it: “Sin is like doodoo covered in whipped cream.” When God forgives us, He not only enables personal freedom but also protects His name from being misrepresented.
Reflective points:
What has God forgiven you of that you sometimes revisit?
Do you find yourself justifying sin by comparing with others' behavior?
2. Giving a New Heart
In verse 26, God promises to replace a “heart of stone” with a “heart of flesh.” This spiritual transformation is akin to a miracle heart transplant, like the story of Kelly who, after receiving a new heart, could climb mountains again. Our new heart brings two essential changes:
New Desires: A desire for worship, love, forgiveness, and generosity.
New Hope: A belief that God is actively working in our future—even when circumstances seem bleak.
Reflective points:
Are you experiencing new desires for God or others?
Has pessimism crept in, hindering belief in God’s plan?
3. Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
Ezekiel 36:27–28 reveals that God not only forgives and renews, but also dwells within us through His Spirit. This presence transforms believers into living temples of God. Key aspects include:
Personal relationship: God connects with each individual
Guided obedience: The Spirit grows Christ‑like conformity
Spiritual maturation: Obedience is birthed and nurtured from within
Living out faith often involves risk. As I canceled an unnecessary purchase in tune with the Spirit, I felt renewed alignment with God’s purposes. The Spirit’s prompts guide us to live compassionately and courageously.
Illustrative stories:
David Lawless: Wearing a hazmat suit, he comforted COVID patients in their final moments.
Matt Lamb: After praying faithfully for a friend, that friend came to Christ.
Our next step: beach baptisms on August 23, offering a public declaration of this inward transformation.
Jesus’ Confirmation (John 3:3–6)
Jesus affirmed the same principles Jesus expressed to Nicodemus: “No one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.” He was deeply referencing Ezekiel 36 — forgiveness and baptism (water), plus the Spirit — as the only way into God’s kingdom.
Are You Born Again?
You are born again if you have been forgiven, received a new heart, and the Spirit of God lives in you. Attendance or moral behavior alone are not enough. True spiritual rebirth results in a naturally supernatural life—marked not by emotionalism, but by love, humility, compassion, and Spirit‑led risk-taking.
Invitation and Next Steps
If you’ve trusted Jesus and experienced forgiveness, but have not yet been baptized, I invite you to consider doing so on August 23 at the beach. It’s a celebration of God’s work in your heart. We would love to talk with you or your family about this meaningful step.
Reflection Questions for Your Journey
Have you experienced forgiveness and renewal in Christ?
Are you sensitive to the Spirit’s nudges?
Are you willing to take faith‑filled risks?
Do you sense new desires growing in your heart?
How might you better represent God to others?
