A Different Attitude

Austin Feuerstein

May 4, 2025

Main Idea

The main idea Pastor Austin shared was that we must intentionally arm ourselves with the attitude of Christ—especially in how we face suffering. This attitude is proactive and Spirit-led, not reactive and flesh-driven. By choosing suffering over sin, we become more aligned with God's will and less controlled by our human desires. This sermon encouraged us to recognize that we’ve already spent enough time living like the world and must now live distinctly, even if it invites misunderstanding or rejection from others. The way we suffer matters because it is often the loudest sermon we preach to unbelievers. Pastor Austin also emphasized that the message of the Gospel is inseparable from the attitude of Christ—one of compassion, patience, and a deep desire for all to come to repentance. The call is to live with a Spirit-led mindset that reflects the Gospel through our actions, even in hardship.

Scripture References

1 Peter 4:1-6 1 Corinthians 10:13 John 12 Romans 8:5-11 2 Peter 3:9

What does it mean to proactively put on the attitude of Christ, and how can we practice that daily?

Why is suffering sometimes necessary in the Christian life, and how can we find purpose in it?

Discussion Questions:

How have you experienced misunderstandings or criticism from others because of your faith?

What old patterns or environments do you need to leave behind to fully live in the Spirit?

How does your response to suffering impact your witness to those who don’t know Christ?

Summary

Pastor Austin Feuerstein taught us that as followers of Christ, we are called to embrace a different attitude—specifically the attitude of Christ when it comes to suffering. We explored how Jesus modeled a proactive mindset toward suffering, embracing rejection and pain with love and purpose. Pastor Austin explained that suffering is not always a punishment but often a path to spiritual strength and transformation. He reminded us that rejecting sin leads to a kind of suffering in the flesh, yet it aligns us with God's will. We no longer live like the world, indulging in desires that disconnect us from God. Instead, we live in the Spirit, which brings peace and eternal life. Unbelievers may not understand this lifestyle, but we are called to witness through how we live and suffer well. Ultimately, our mindset shapes our direction, and we must consciously choose the attitude of Christ to reflect Him in our lives.