The document discusses root problems and self-defeating strategies related to our sin nature, including folly, madness, evil, missing God's glory, crossing moral boundaries, spoiling opportunities, pursuing empty things, and offending God. It then examines inner sins like arrogance, rebellion, deceitfulness, poor judgement, and blindness. The document summarizes that the gospel is one of astonishment and that God saves through mercy rather than righteousness. God delights in taking care of his people with love and joy.

1. Guidance Central Reversing Self-Defeating Strategies The Gospel of Astonishment

15. The Wonder of the Gospel 2 Cor. 7:8-9 “ Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while—yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance.”

20. The Wonder of the Gospel 2 Cor. 7:10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

21. The Wonder of the Gospel 2 Cor. 7:11 See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done.”

23. The Wonder of the Gospel Romans 3:23 Everyone has sinned and fallen short of God’s glorious ideal. Titus 3:5 He saved us not by righteous things we had done but by his mercy. He saved us by the washing of rebirth and renewing by the Holy Spirit.

24. The Wonder of the Gospel What does it mean to follow the gospel as a Christian? What is God up to? Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with loud singing.”

25. The Wonder of the Gospel Verse for Life Groups: Zephaniah 3:17