How Do You Know You're Growing Spiritually? | The Upside Wk 03

In this message, Pastor Rodney continues **The Upside** series by exploring how Jesus describes the kind of person God's Kingdom produces. Walking through **Matthew 5:7–16**, he explains that spiritual growth isn't measured by behavior modification alone—it's revealed through a transformed heart that reflects the character of Christ.

Many of us wonder, *"How do I know if I'm truly growing spiritually?"* Jesus answers that question by showing that as we surrender to Him, our lives begin to display mercy, purity, peacemaking, and faithfulness—even when following Him comes at a personal cost. These aren't qualities we manufacture on our own; they are the fruit of a life being transformed by the Gospel.

In this sermon, you'll discover:
• Why the Beatitudes are a progression, not a checklist.
• How God transforms us from the inside out.
• What it means to be merciful in a world that values revenge.
• Why purity of heart is about wholehearted devotion, not perfection.
• How peacemakers reflect God's heart by pursuing reconciliation.
• Why following Jesus may bring opposition—and why that's a sign of Kingdom living.
• What it means to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
• How your transformed life can point others to Jesus.

As Pastor Rodney reminds us, Jesus isn't calling us to simply try harder—He's inviting us to become new people under the rule of a different King. When God's Kingdom takes root in our hearts, our character changes, our relationships change, and our influence on the world changes.

No matter where you are in your walk with Christ, this message will challenge you to ask one important question:

**Who are you becoming?**

📖 Scripture:
Matthew 5:7–16

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