The Transforming Power of the Gospel
The world diagnoses life-dominating sins as “addictions”—diseases to be managed indefinitely. But Scripture teaches us to think of them instead as a matter of idolatry (Romans 1:25; 1 Corinthians 10:14) and as sins that enslave (John 8:34; Romans 6:16). At Hope Bible Study (HBS), we hold fast to the truth that real hope, lasting change, and spiritual freedom come not from behavior modification or self-help, but through the regenerating and transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
HBS is a discipleship ministry committed to walking with people who feel stuck and weary from cycles of sin—whether sexual immorality, drugs, alcohol, anger, anxiety, gambling, or other habitual patterns that entangle. Whether you are a believer seeking spiritual renewal or a non-believer curious about real freedom, the message is the same: God changes people. The gospel does more than forgive our sins; it also transforms us and makes us more like Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). That is why HBS is structured as an intensive in both the gospel and sanctification.
Drawing from biblical truth, HBS helps individuals identify the false worship at the heart of their habits and leads them to the soul-satisfying power of the risen Christ. Every ensnaring behavior is rooted in a deeper spiritual issue—a ruling desire or idol that has replaced Christ. The issue isn’t what’s happening around us; it’s what’s ruling within us. The key isn’t a better method; it’s a transformed heart.
This is why HBS doesn’t emphasize external control but internal renewal—salvation for the unbeliever, and the renewal of the mind for the believer (Romans 12:1–2). This is the process of putting off old patterns, being renewed in the spirit of the mind, and putting on new godly habits through the power of the Word (Ephesians 4:22–24).
Hope Bible Study is not a 12-step program; it’s a community of biblical care where we expose sin’s lies, exalt the Savior’s grace, and help one another grow in holiness. Through weekly meetings, we hear clear teaching from Scripture on God’s power to change lives. In smaller care groups, we share burdens, offer accountability, and walk in the light together. One-on-one biblical counseling is available to address specific patterns and apply God’s Word directly to personal struggles. We also share in regular fellowship events—opportunities to live life unmasked in the company of fellow strugglers saved by grace.
This ministry is designed for two types of people: the unbeliever enslaved to sin who needs to be born again (John 3:3), and the believer who has grown weary in the fight against the flesh and needs to be renewed in hope and holiness (Galatians 6:1–2).
In either case, the answer is the same: the gospel faithfully applied. The heart is not just wounded; it is wayward. And because sin is not a sickness to be managed but rebellion to be repented of, we find true freedom when we confess our sins and cling to Christ. As Paul reminded the Corinthian church after listing several enslaving sins: “And such were some of you; but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Corinthians 6:11).
If you or someone you know is ready to confront this kind of life-dominating sin in a biblical manner, join us on Monday evenings at 7 pm in H221. Come as you are, bring your burdens, and come ready to be changed—not by your own power, but by the mighty grace of God working through His Word, His Spirit, and His people.
For more information or to get connected, email Trent Jackson at hbs@gracechurch.org or call/text 818-909-5770.