1 - Introduction - Living like a real Christian Heart - Three Ways to Live | Page 12

You must replace this belief by repenting for the sin beneath it all—your particular
idolatry.
“G
The “Gospel” approach
Basic analysis: Your problem is that you are looking to something besides Christ for
your happiness. You have been worshiping an idol and rejecting the true God. Repent
and rejoice!
This approach confronts a person with the real sin underlying the particular sins and
behind the bad feelings. Our problem is that we have given ourselves over to idols.
Every idol-system is a way of our-works-salvation, and thus it keeps us “under the

law.”
Paul tells us that the bondage of sin is broken when we come out from under the law—
when we begin to believe the gospel of Christ’s-work-salvation. Only when we realize
in a new way that we are righteous in Christ does the idol’s power over us break. “Sin

shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.” (Romans 6
v 14).
You will only be “under grace” and free from the controlling effects of idols to the
degree that you have both (1) repented of your idols and (2) rested and rejoiced in the
saving work and love of Christ instead.
To replace idols, you must learn to rejoice in the particular thing Jesus provides that
replaces that particular idol of your heart. Whenever you see your heart in the grip of
some kind of disobedience or misery, some temptation, anxiety, anger, etc., always
ask, (1) “How are these effects being caused by an inordinate hope for someone or
something to give me what only Jesus can really give me?” and (2) “How does Christ
give me so much more fully and graciously and suitably the very things I am looking for
elsewhere?”
Next, rejoice and consider what he has done and what he has given you.