Built Different: Different for a Reason

Built Different: Sermon Notes     Pastor Mike Snodgrass

Different for a Reason         August 31, 2025

Recite: I am not common… I am chosen… I am not random… I am redeemed… God formed me… God knows me…God calls me to stand out… I am built different!

TODAY: Different for a Reason

Point 1: I am Chosen with Intent

• 1 Peter 1:1-2 NIV: Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.
• Peter is writing to encourage believers who would likely face trials and persecution. This persecution would come from three main places: the Romans, the Jews, and their own families.
• God’s choosing is never random — it is purposeful. He doesn’t just make us different to be different but to accomplish our assignment to accomplish His will.
• A builder doesn’t choose his tools randomly  — he chooses the exact ones that fit his design and purpose.

Your difference is not an accident; God placed you where you are to fulfill His plan in your family, community, and world.

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Point 2: My Difference Reflect God’s Holiness

• Leviticus 11:44 – I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. Do not make yourselves unclean by any creature that moves along the ground.
• 1 Peter 1:15–16: But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

Holiness is God’s defining attribute, and His people are called to reflect it. Being “different” means being set apart in conduct, thought, and character.

• A mirror only reflects what it faces. If we face the world, we reflect the world. If we face God, we reflect His holiness.
• Holiness is not withdrawal from culture but being a clear witness within it — a life that shows God’s purity and integrity
• When we do this we are able to then point people to God, point 3.

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Point 3: My Difference Points People to God

• Matthew 5:16 – In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
• 1 Peter 2:9 – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

God sets His people apart not to draw attention to themselves but to direct others to Him. The church is not the destination; it’s the signpost.

• Airport runway lights don’t point to themselves; they guide pilots to safety. Likewise, our difference exists to point people to the Savior.
• Every action, word, and choice should help others see God more clearly through us.

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Point 4: My Difference Shows God’s Power

• Acts 1:8 – But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
• Matthew 28:19 – Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…
• God displays His power through weak vessels so the glory belongs to Him. Our “different” life is evidence that the Spirit is at work in us.
• 2 Corinthians 4:7 – But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
• A clay jar doesn’t impress anyone — until it glows because of the treasure inside.

Our changed lives, our answered prayers, and our bold witness demonstrate that God is real, alive, and powerful

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Closing Charge:

“I am not different by accident. I am different by assignment. Chosen with intent. Different to Resist Corruption. Reflecting God’s holiness. Pointing people to Him. Showing His power. I am different for a reason — and the world needs to see it!”