Building Together: The Power of Living Stones

 

Summary

Summary:

Good morning, Connection Point! Today, we continue our series on "Surrender," focusing on the profound truth found in 1 Peter 2:5. This verse serves as the foundation for our exploration over the next several weeks. It reminds us that we are "living stones," being built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. As living stones, we are not just individual believers but part of a larger, divine structure—the gathered church. Each of us carries the Holy Spirit within, and together, we form a spiritual house where God's presence dwells and His glory is revealed to the world.

We delved into the concept of the five-fold ministry, as outlined in Ephesians 4:11-13, which includes apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These roles are essential for equipping the church for works of service and building up the body of Christ. Each role functions as an anointed specialist, contributing uniquely to the construction of God's spiritual house. Apostles lay the foundation, prophets inspect and confirm, evangelists gather new believers, pastors nurture and prepare, and teachers instruct and guide.

Understanding these roles helps us appreciate the diversity and unity within the body of Christ. We are all called to contribute our unique gifts and talents to the church's mission. This collective effort ensures that the spiritual house is built correctly, allowing the Holy Spirit to dwell and display His glory.

As we reflect on our journey as a church, we acknowledge the hard work, perseverance, and dedication that have brought us this far. Despite challenges and weariness, we are encouraged to stay the course, knowing that God sees our efforts and strengthens us. Let us continue to offer our spiritual sacrifices, trusting that God will reveal His plans and purposes for us as we remain faithful to His calling.

Key Takeaways:

1. Living Stones and Spiritual House: We are living stones, each carrying the Holy Spirit, being built into a spiritual house. This collective gathering is where God's presence dwells, and His glory is revealed. Our individual contributions are vital to the church's mission. [04:42]

2. The Five-Fold Ministry: Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are anointed specialists, each playing a unique role in building the church. Their combined efforts equip the body of Christ for service and unity. [06:44]

3. Apostles and Prophets: Apostles lay the foundation, clearing spiritual obstacles, while prophets act as inspectors, confirming God's direction. Together, they ensure the church is built according to God's design. [13:34]

4. Perseverance in Faith: Despite challenges, we are called to persevere, maintaining our position and territory. God sees our efforts and strengthens us, encouraging us to stay the course and fulfill our calling. [35:54]

5. Strength in Unity: As we gather and offer our spiritual sacrifices, we experience God's strength and presence. In moments of weariness, we are reminded to cast our burdens on Him, trusting in His strength and guidance. [39:16]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [04:42] - Living Stones and Spiritual House
- [06:44] - Introduction to the Five-Fold Ministry
- [10:42] - Understanding Apostles
- [13:34] - Role of Prophets
- [21:25] - Importance of Apostles and Prophets
- [22:21] - Christ as the Chief Cornerstone
- [28:44] - Our Role in the Spiritual House
- [35:54] - Perseverance in Faith
- [39:16] - Strength in Unity
- [40:05] - Closing Prayer and Worship

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Surrender" Series

Bible Reading:
- 1 Peter 2:5
- Ephesians 4:11-13

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Observation Questions:

1. What does 1 Peter 2:5 mean when it refers to believers as "living stones"? How does this imagery contribute to the understanding of the church as a spiritual house? [04:42]

2. According to Ephesians 4:11-13, what are the roles included in the five-fold ministry, and what is their purpose in the church? [06:44]

3. How does the sermon describe the function of apostles and prophets in the building of the church? [13:34]

4. What does the pastor mean by saying that the church is a place where God's presence dwells and His glory is revealed? [04:42]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of being "living stones" challenge the idea of individualism in the Christian faith? What implications does this have for how believers should view their role in the church? [04:42]

2. In what ways do the five-fold ministry roles contribute to the unity and maturity of the church, according to Ephesians 4:11-13? How might this understanding affect the way we view church leadership? [06:44]

3. The sermon mentions perseverance in faith despite challenges. How does this perseverance relate to the idea of being part of a spiritual house? [35:54]

4. How does the pastor's analogy of the five-fold ministry as "anointed specialists" help clarify the roles and responsibilities within the church? [06:44]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your role as a "living stone" in the church. What unique gifts or talents do you believe God has given you to contribute to the spiritual house? How can you actively use them in your church community? [04:42]

2. Consider the five-fold ministry roles. Is there a particular role you feel drawn to or see yourself operating in? How can you seek opportunities to develop in that area within your church? [06:44]

3. The sermon emphasizes perseverance in faith. Can you identify a current challenge in your life where you need to persevere? How can your church community support you in this? [35:54]

4. The pastor spoke about the importance of unity and strength in the church. How can you contribute to fostering unity in your church, especially in times of disagreement or conflict? [39:16]

5. Reflect on a time when you felt weary in your faith journey. What steps can you take to cast your burdens on God and rely on His strength? [39:16]

6. How can you ensure that your spiritual sacrifices are acceptable to God? What changes might you need to make in your daily life to align more closely with His will? [04:42]

7. The sermon mentioned the importance of being connected to a body of believers. How can you deepen your connection with your church community this week? [28:44]

Devotional

Day 1: Living Stones in a Spiritual House
As believers, we are described as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house, a concept that emphasizes our collective identity in Christ. Each of us carries the Holy Spirit within, contributing to a larger, divine structure—the church. This spiritual house is where God's presence dwells, and His glory is revealed to the world. Our individual contributions are vital to the church's mission, as we are not isolated believers but part of a unified body. This unity allows us to experience God's presence more fully and to reveal His glory to those around us. [04:42]

1 Peter 2:4-5 (ESV): "As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."

Reflection: How can you actively contribute to the spiritual house of your church this week, using the unique gifts God has given you?


Day 2: The Five-Fold Ministry's Role in Unity
The five-fold ministry, as outlined in Ephesians 4:11-13, includes apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Each role is essential for equipping the church for works of service and building up the body of Christ. Apostles lay the foundation, prophets inspect and confirm, evangelists gather new believers, pastors nurture and prepare, and teachers instruct and guide. Understanding these roles helps us appreciate the diversity and unity within the body of Christ. Each role functions as an anointed specialist, contributing uniquely to the construction of God's spiritual house. [06:44]

Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV): "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."

Reflection: Which of the five-fold ministry roles do you feel most connected to, and how can you use this connection to serve your church community?


Day 3: Apostles and Prophets in Church Building
Apostles and prophets play crucial roles in the church's foundation and direction. Apostles lay the groundwork, clearing spiritual obstacles, while prophets act as inspectors, confirming God's direction. Together, they ensure the church is built according to God's design. This partnership is vital for maintaining the integrity and purpose of the church, allowing it to function as a true reflection of God's kingdom on earth. By understanding and valuing these roles, we can better support the church's mission and growth. [13:34]

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (ESV): "According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

Reflection: In what ways can you support the foundational work of apostles and prophets in your church, ensuring it aligns with God's design?


Day 4: Perseverance in Faith Amidst Challenges
Despite challenges and weariness, believers are called to persevere, maintaining their position and territory. God sees our efforts and strengthens us, encouraging us to stay the course and fulfill our calling. This perseverance is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity, as it allows us to overcome obstacles and remain faithful to God's purpose for our lives. By trusting in God's strength and guidance, we can navigate difficult times with hope and resilience. [35:54]

James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Reflection: What is one challenge you are currently facing, and how can you rely on God's strength to persevere through it?


Day 5: Strength in Unity and Spiritual Sacrifices
As we gather and offer our spiritual sacrifices, we experience God's strength and presence. In moments of weariness, we are reminded to cast our burdens on Him, trusting in His strength and guidance. This unity in offering spiritual sacrifices allows us to experience God's presence more fully and to reveal His glory to those around us. By coming together as a community, we can support one another and grow in our faith, becoming a true reflection of God's love and grace. [39:16]

Hebrews 13:15-16 (ESV): "Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."

Reflection: How can you offer a spiritual sacrifice today, either through praise, service, or sharing with others, to strengthen your unity with fellow believers?

Quotes

"We're living stones that are being what built into a spiritual house. I had a few people come up to me after last week and even today that just said, you know, I know a lot of people who are Christians and believers I wish would listen to that message because it really is highlighting the importance of the gathered church like what are we doing why do we do this like why do we come together every Sunday we do worship listen to it like why do we have stuff for kids why do we do make like what what is this importance and all of us are individual temples we have the holy spirit living inside of us but what is saying there is that there's something about each individual stone that has the holy spirit inside of them that you can hear from God as a calling on your life but as they come together to the gathered church they're they're being built into the spiritual house a place where is holy spirit it just an unlock something there's something special about as we all gather together and we worship him him, and his glory shows up, and it shines to the world." [00:02:25]

"So Christ Himself gave. So who gave? It was Christ. Christ gave what? These five things. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. I love to joke that means that I am God's gift to you. You're welcome. No receipts, no take -backs. So Christ gave these five gifts. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers. But why? To equip His people for works of service. To equip every living thing. To equip every blessing. To make their lives better. To grant their wishes for the MIBoon who is with them. How would you feel about that? How are you bringing on God to do that? How do you evangelize and we utilize those gifts to get their blessing Father, I love to be part of the work You've done. I love that. VO AND IF IN MINE IS THE WAY, NO BORROWED BY YOU BUT THIS WON'T BUILD UP THE ENTIRE WORLD. noite Howdy." [00:07:04]

"An apostle, they are anointed by God to clear spiritual rubbish out of the way to lay a foundation for the church. This is why many people that are apostles start churches. Now, not everyone who starts a church is apostle, but they are the team leader and the one that is given the vision and they chart the course. They lead the way. And that's again, why many would claim to be apostles that were false because really what they were wanting is I want the position. Um, and so I've said this before. I know this rubs people sometimes the wrong way, uh, just a few, but I'll explain why it does. Um, but I'll say this like as an apostle, the apostle is the chief visionary officer, meaning God has placed them to clear spiritual rubbish out of the way and set the foundation for his church. They're the ones that are charting the course and leading the way. And it doesn't mean that you don't have vision. And you don't hear from God and you don't have a calling on your life. It just means your calling and your calling and your calling and your calling is all coming together to a massive instructions that was given by the Lord to go lead the way to, to, to build his house." [00:14:02]

"Because how many of you know it'd be really, really sad that in five years after building the bridge, all of these cars are driving down on this bridge. It looks beautiful from the outside, but it comes crashing down because there wasn't an inspection. So profits are given to inspect. Is this being built the way God wants? They also bring confirmation. So I'll give you an example. So in 2024, I'm sitting here, I'm praying, God's stirring something in my heart to kind of change up some of our midweek. The next gen nights, taking a night where everyone from zero to 18, they're going to come in. We're going to have fun, but we're also going to pray over and really, kind of stirring. In that whole passage in Judges that they grew, the next generation passed away and the next gen didn't know God. They didn't have relationship with him. So it also kind of sparked those Wednesday nights and changing up our equip. And I'm telling you, if you've been here the last two Wednesday nights, I could feel God is doing something, Holy Spirit wise. And if you look at our words of unity and surrender, there's something about coming together in his presence that really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really brings unity." [00:19:21]

"The foundation, so all five are important, but if you think of the foundation, God wants the foundation to be built right. He's going to use apostles, prophets. There is two things. So the first one, if you notice in that verse, it says who? Who is the chief cornerstone? Jesus. Who is the head of the church? Jesus. So I love that he puts checks and balances in place and why we come underneath him. Because the devil loves to pervert things, people's hearts get twisted, and so I'll give you a kind of a way this works. So if Jesus is the head, everything's got to be in alignment with him, what he wants and what his word says. So if I, as an apostle, start teaching outside of what God's word says, then you are no longer under me, you stay under who? Jesus. Because what he wants and what he says is valuable. If I start going rogue and I start kind of negating all the people who are hearing from speaking, God doesn't call anyone to go rogue. Like when people are going rogue, you can understand that, hey, they're probably not in the body because we're supposed to be a body." [00:21:32]

"God, if you want us to start this, then you are the provider. You have to provide. It's not easy to start a church from nothing. So if you didn't know this, I never look at you as the provider. He is the provider. God will use you as you bring his tithe in your offering. But I've learned that even if people don't want to be obedient to God, God will find someone who will be, and he's going to provide for what he said he's going to do. So he is the provider. The other thing, though, was that this is his church. And so whatever you want, I work for you. And I made a decision that even if it's the unpopular decision, I would rather have 15 people mad at me, but God happy that I did what he said. I never want to like, oh, I made everyone happy, and then God comes to me and says, I put you in that role. Why didn't you do what I said?" [00:23:41]

"All of us are living stones being built into a spiritual house. That means you are important. You are vital The gifts that god has placed in you Are an important function in his spiritual house being built. Yes. Some of us are greeters Yes, some of us work in coffee and and all of that and yes, we should all volunteer and I think that's important But I want you to understand there is even more inside of people than opening a door or greeting someone or helping in kids God has placed inside of you Special gifts and talents that other people don't have so that we can all come together to make This spiritual house that has his holy spirit dwelling and functioning and operating in a in a massive and powerful way That is more than just the individual temple that we are In our own room worshiping the lord reading the bible Yes, we should do that as individual for the holy spirit lives inside of us But there's something Something about us all coming together and being our part Says don't think of yourself more highly than you want every part's important" [00:28:44]

"I think sometimes people minimize what we do right now on Sunday mornings I mean and so anytime someone is going to rogue Like I got my I get sometimes feel I'm gonna start administer I'm gonna do all this stuff and I'm like Are you? Are you connected to a body somewhere? Nope, you're just doing your own thing. Well that that doesn't sit Well, why because this is God's structure. It is his spiritual house. It's not mine. It's not yours He is wanting to build a new temple or the body of Christ He wants it built up so that his presence can literally dwell in it with a bunch of priests in the room Offering all the time these spiritual sacrifices to the altar. It's constantly filled with this wonderful smell of Worship to him through all of our lives and then we get him in such a powerful and incredible way. Amen All right." [00:31:06]

"I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you've tested those who claim to be apostles, but are not and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary. And I was thinking about us as a church. We're a little over three years old and we started from nothing You know, it was not easy and many of it you in this room even just in the last six months of buying and building, the renovations and all of that. there we put a lot of work into this some of you you've invested your time your talent your treasure and I feel like God is saying you know what I know your deeds and your hard work I've seen it I've seen what you have put in I've seen the effort and the energy and the focus that you have put in and man some of us man we put in some hours" [00:32:00]

"You could even say a person that is under an intense spiritual weight, and it's like they're trying to hold it up. But how many of you know it's so heavy? And it gets exhausting. You start to wear out, and you're trying to hold it up. And he says, I see your good deeds, your hard work, and your perseverance. I saw everything that you went through. I saw everything that you faced and the pressure that was upon you. But you stayed the course, and you did what I called you to do, and you didn't give back territory to the enemy. You stayed, and you just kind of kept going after, even though you felt like you were getting crushed, and even though effectively, you felt like all these different arrows were coming at you from all types of different spiritual attacks and spiritual warfare, but you hung in there, and you stayed the course, and you refused to give up, and you refused to surrender, no matter what challenges come your way." [00:36:11]

"And I really do believe right now, in this moment, the Holy Spirit wants to minister to you if you feel worn out, because I just pictured like this envision of strength being instilled into the people of Connection Point. And so I'm going to ask you to stand on your feet. We're going to go into a moment of worship, and I actually changed it up this morning. This song that we're about to worship the Lord with is a song that is probably 15 years old that none of us know, because my old church in Dallas, wrote this song, and I haven't listened to this song in years, and it was like yesterday as I'm preparing and praying, it just kind of dropped in my heart, and I've had it on repeat, and it's just called Strong. And what I pictured as we pray, and as we worship, for some of us, is we're just kind of like, I can't do it anymore." [00:38:21]

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Transcript
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