This past Sunday, 22 February 2026, Ps Larry Elliott brought our transformative series, Conduct in the House of the Lord, to a powerful conclusion at 3C South Coast. Throughout this series, we have explored what it means to live a life that honours God, not just within the four walls of a building, but in every sphere of our influence.
The final message, titled Dressed in Victory, challenged us to move beyond outward appearances. It asks us to embrace an internal spiritual reality that changes how we face the world.
Growth is an Internal Reality
We often measure success by numbers, but Ps Larry reminded us that true growth is measured by what is happening on the inside of people. A church is healthy when lives are being changed, marriages are being restored, and the community feels the impact of its presence. Our conduct is the primary vehicle for this impact.
As the foundational scripture for this series states in 1 Timothy 3:15, “but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth”.
Conduct is not about “behaviour modification” or wearing a mask to pretend everything is perfect. It is about making sure that who we are is genuine, sincere, and flowing from a heart that has been transformed by Christ. Otherwise, our actions are merely “dead works”.
Why We Are “Dressed IN Victory”
The title of the message was intentional. We aren’t just dressed for victory; we are Dressed in Victory. Being dressed for something implies you are waiting for it to happen, but being dressed in it speaks to an internal state of being.
The Bible tells us to “put on Christ”. While we often picture the Armor of God as external gear on a soldier, that armor is actually internal. When we are dressed in the armor of God, we look like Jesus to the enemy. This confuses the kingdom of darkness because, on Monday morning, there aren’t just individual believers going to work — there are thousands of “Jesuses” walking around the community, empowered by the same Spirit.
As Ephesians 6:10 encourages us: “Now my beloved ones, I have saved these most important truths for last: Be supernaturally infused with strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus. Stand victorious with the force of his explosive power flowing in and through you”.
Running Your Race to Win
God has called every believer to be a winner. This does not mean a life free of challenges, but a life where we exercise our authority in Christ to become like Him. Ps Larry highlighted that life is not a 100-metre sprint; it is an ultramarathon.
To finish well, we must let go of the weights that hold us back. Hebrews 12:1 says, “As for us, we have all of these great witnesses who encircle us like clouds. So we must let go of every wound that has pierced us and the sin we so easily fall into. Then we will be able to run life’s marathon race with passion and determination, for the path has been already marked out before us”.
We must run with the intent to win the prize. Ps Larry shared his “Comrades journey,” noting that he initially failed because he lacked the right gear and mentorship. It was only when he followed a strategic program and the guidance of a mentor that he finished the race. In the same way, we need to be organised, prepared, and mentored within the house of God to succeed in our spiritual race.
Becoming a Pillar and Ground of Truth
A pillar provides the support necessary to build to a new level. If we are not functioning as pillars in the church, we risk becoming hindrances, as a building is only as strong as its supports. Being a pillar requires being organised and prepared.
Furthermore, our lives must be grounded in truth. In a world that tells you to “live your own truth,” we must stand on the absolute truth of God’s Word. Without the “Belt of Truth,” the rest of our spiritual armor will not function correctly.
Ephesians 6:14-17 instructs us: “Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”.
The Necessity of Correction
To build a life in truth, we must be willing to embrace correction and discipline. Ps Larry noted that many today have “itchy ears,” wanting only “sweets” (encouragement) and no “vegetables” (correction). However, correction is a sign of God’s love.
Hebrews 12:6-7 reminds us: “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?”.
When we yield to conviction, it lifts us out of sin and leads us back to the heart of God. True leaders — like those Ps Larry corrected regarding their responsibilities after a conference — respond with humility and a desire to honour the call of God.
Announcements & Next Steps
- Men’s Brotherhood: Join us this Tuesday, 24 February, for our Brotherhood meeting. It’s a time for men to sharpen one another and grow in leadership. More details: Brotherhood Ministry.
- Youth: We are passionate about the next generation! Check out our youth ministry here: Ylife Youth.
- Stay Connected: For more resources and to learn more about our church, visit our website and my3c.tv.
Cell Group Discussion Guide
Focus Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-18
- Dressed IN Victory: What is the difference between being dressed “for” victory and being dressed “in” victory in your daily life?
- The Marathon: What “wounds” or “sins” do you need to let go of to run your race with more passion and determination? (Hebrews 12:1)
- Being a Pillar: Ps Larry mentioned that pillars are for support to build to a “new level.” What area of your life or the church are you currently supporting or building?
- Embracing Correction: Why is it sometimes difficult to receive correction, and how can we develop a heart that yields to the Holy Spirit’s conviction?
- Armor Check: Which piece of the Armor of God do you feel you need to “tighten” this week?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the truth of Your Word that grounds us. Lord, help us to live lives that are truly Dressed in Victory, recognizing that our strength comes solely from our union with You.
Grant us the humility to receive Your correction and the discipline to run the race You have set before us with excellence. May we be strong pillars in Your house, supporting the next level of Your kingdom here on the South Coast. We pray for boldness to share the Gospel and for a spirit of prayer to permeate everything we do.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
