Celebrating 135 Years of Faith, Prayer, and Unity
Summary
### Summary
Today, we celebrate the rich history and enduring legacy of Calvary Bible Church, which has stood for 135 years by the grace of God. Our journey has been marked by transformative moments, deeply rooted in prayer and a commitment to serving our community. One of my favorite stories is about Raymond, a Jewish man who, after years of attending church sporadically and asking questions, finally gave his life to Christ. His testimony reminds us of the love and joy that permeates our congregation, a love that is a testament to God's presence among us.
Our church's longevity can be attributed to our foundation of prayer. From the men's prayer group that started in 1973 to the 100 days of prayer in 2005, and the 130 days of prayer in 2019, our collective prayers have guided us through significant milestones, including the launch of new campuses. Prayer has been the bedrock of our initiatives, such as the Kingdom Assignments, where members were given money to multiply and give away, resulting in incredible acts of generosity and community impact.
We have also focused on reorganizing our church structure to better serve our mission. By eliminating committees and encouraging members to use their gifts, we have fostered a more dynamic and responsive community. Our efforts to bless the city of Boulder through initiatives like ShareFest and the Heart of Advent have shown that our mission extends beyond our walls. These projects have not only met physical needs but have also demonstrated the love of Christ to our neighbors.
As we look to the future, we are reminded of Jesus' prayer for unity in John 17. He prayed for our joy, protection, and sanctification, emphasizing the importance of being united in Him. This unity is crucial for our witness to the world, showing that Jesus is real and that God sent Him. As we embark on a new journey through the book of 1 Corinthians, we aim to grow in holiness and deepen our understanding of God's Word.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Persistent Prayer: Our church's history is a testament to the power of persistent prayer. From the men's prayer group in 1973 to the 130 days of prayer in 2019, these collective prayers have guided us through significant milestones and challenges. Prayer is not just a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to God's will and power. [04:23]
2. Transformative Acts of Generosity: The Kingdom Assignments demonstrated how small acts of generosity can lead to significant community impact. By giving members $100 to multiply and give away, we saw creative and impactful ways to bless others. This initiative taught us that our resources, when used for God's glory, can transform lives and communities. [12:58]
3. Unity in Christ: Jesus' prayer in John 17 emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. This unity is not just for our benefit but serves as a powerful witness to the world that Jesus is real and that God sent Him. Our unity in Christ is essential for our mission and testimony. [30:47]
4. Joy, Protection, and Holiness: Jesus prayed for our joy, protection, and sanctification. True joy comes from following Jesus, even in the midst of trials. He also prays for our protection from the evil one and for our growth in holiness through His Word. These prayers are a reminder of His ongoing care and intercession for us. [32:02]
5. Living Out Our Faith: Our various initiatives, from ShareFest to the Heart of Advent, show that living out our faith involves active service and generosity. These projects have allowed us to meet the needs of our community and demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways. Our faith is not just about what happens within the church but how we impact the world around us. [19:33]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:29] - Raymond's Testimony
[03:04] - The Foundation of Prayer
[04:23] - Historical Prayer Movements
[05:31] - Building Projects and Prayer
[06:28] - 100 Days of Prayer and Erie Campus
[07:28] - Launching the Thornton Campus
[08:27] - Church Reorganization
[09:31] - Kingdom Assignments
[12:09] - Parable of the Talents
[14:00] - Community Impact Stories
[17:05] - Generosity and Social Service
[19:33] - Heart of Advent and 6-8 Project
[21:22] - Campus Expansions
[22:11] - Remembering God's Faithfulness
[25:06] - Impact on Young People
[29:19] - Jesus' Prayer for Unity
[32:02] - Joy, Protection, and Holiness
[34:17] - Upcoming Study in 1 Corinthians
[36:01] - Closing and Doxology
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 17:20-23 (ESV)
> "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me."
2. Matthew 25:14-30 (ESV)
> "For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.' But his master answered him, 'You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'"
3. Micah 6:8 (ESV)
> "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of Raymond's testimony in the sermon? How did his journey to faith impact the congregation? [01:29]
2. What role has persistent prayer played in the history and growth of Calvary Bible Church? [04:23]
3. Describe the Kingdom Assignments mentioned in the sermon. What were some creative ways members multiplied their $100? [12:58]
4. How did Jesus' prayer in John 17 emphasize the importance of unity among believers? [30:47]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think persistent prayer has been so foundational to the longevity and impact of Calvary Bible Church? [04:23]
2. How do the Kingdom Assignments reflect the parable of the talents in Matthew 25? What lessons can we learn from this initiative? [12:58]
3. In what ways does unity among believers serve as a witness to the world, according to Jesus' prayer in John 17? [30:47]
4. How do the initiatives like ShareFest and the Heart of Advent demonstrate living out one's faith in practical ways? [19:33]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your personal prayer life. How can you incorporate more persistent and intentional prayer into your daily routine? [04:23]
2. Think about the resources and talents God has given you. How can you use them creatively to bless others and glorify God, similar to the Kingdom Assignments? [12:58]
3. Jesus prayed for unity among believers. Are there any relationships within the church that you need to mend to contribute to this unity? How can you take steps towards reconciliation? [30:47]
4. Consider the various community service initiatives mentioned in the sermon. How can you get involved in similar projects to demonstrate the love of Christ in your community? [19:33]
5. Reflect on the joy, protection, and holiness that Jesus prayed for in John 17. How can you seek these in your own life through following Jesus and engaging with His Word? [32:02]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of living out our faith beyond the church walls. What specific actions can you take this week to show Christ's love to your neighbors or coworkers? [19:33]
7. How can you contribute to the mission and vision of Calvary Bible Church as it continues to grow and serve the community? What specific gifts or talents can you offer? [09:31]
Devotional
Day 1: The Lifeline of Persistent Prayer
Prayer is not just a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to God's will and power. The history of Calvary Bible Church is a testament to the power of persistent prayer. From the men's prayer group that started in 1973 to the 130 days of prayer in 2019, these collective prayers have guided the church through significant milestones and challenges. Prayer has been the bedrock of the church's initiatives, such as the Kingdom Assignments and the launch of new campuses.
Persistent prayer is a powerful tool that aligns us with God's will and opens the door for His power to work in our lives and communities. It is through prayer that we seek guidance, strength, and wisdom. As we reflect on the history of our church, we are reminded that prayer is not just a ritual but a vital connection to God. [04:23]
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV): "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Reflection: Think about a specific area in your life where you need guidance or strength. How can you commit to persistent prayer in this area starting today?
Day 2: Transformative Acts of Generosity
The Kingdom Assignments demonstrated how small acts of generosity can lead to significant community impact. By giving members $100 to multiply and give away, the church saw creative and impactful ways to bless others. This initiative taught that resources, when used for God's glory, can transform lives and communities.
Generosity is a powerful expression of God's love. When we use our resources to bless others, we participate in God's work of transformation. The Kingdom Assignments showed that even small acts of generosity can have a profound impact. It encourages us to think creatively about how we can use what we have to serve others and glorify God. [12:58]
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: Consider a small act of generosity you can perform today. How can you use your resources to bless someone in your community?
Day 3: Unity in Christ
Jesus' prayer in John 17 emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. This unity is not just for our benefit but serves as a powerful witness to the world that Jesus is real and that God sent Him. Our unity in Christ is essential for our mission and testimony.
Unity among believers is a powerful testimony to the reality of Jesus and the love of God. When we are united in Christ, we reflect His love and grace to the world. This unity is crucial for our witness and mission. It shows the world that Jesus is real and that God sent Him. [30:47]
Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection: Think of a relationship within the church that needs reconciliation. How can you take a step towards unity and peace in that relationship today?
Day 4: Joy, Protection, and Holiness
Jesus prayed for our joy, protection, and sanctification. True joy comes from following Jesus, even in the midst of trials. He also prays for our protection from the evil one and for our growth in holiness through His Word. These prayers are a reminder of His ongoing care and intercession for us.
Jesus' prayers for us encompass our joy, protection, and holiness. True joy is found in following Jesus, even when we face trials. He also prays for our protection from the evil one and for our sanctification through His Word. These prayers remind us of His constant care and intercession on our behalf. [32:02]
John 17:15-17 (ESV): "I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth."
Reflection: Reflect on an area of your life where you need Jesus' protection or sanctification. How can you seek His joy and holiness in that area today?
Day 5: Living Out Our Faith
Our various initiatives, from ShareFest to the Heart of Advent, show that living out our faith involves active service and generosity. These projects have allowed us to meet the needs of our community and demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways. Our faith is not just about what happens within the church but how we impact the world around us.
Living out our faith means actively serving and being generous to those around us. Initiatives like ShareFest and the Heart of Advent have shown that our mission extends beyond the church walls. These projects have met physical needs and demonstrated the love of Christ to our neighbors. Our faith is meant to impact the world around us in tangible ways. [19:33]
James 2:14-17 (ESV): "What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: Identify a specific need in your community that you can help meet. How can you take a step today to live out your faith through active service and generosity?
Quotes
1. "And he prayed the most authentic, I turn from my sins, I call upon the name of Jesus prayers. Prayers. I ask you to save me. When he was baptized, he stood in the tank, and he told all of that, that he would come to my office and say, no, I'm not going to get baptized, trust Christ. But he told this beautiful faith, and then he looked around the room, and he said, do you know, I came here for years, and when I came to church four or five times a year, I would be so jealous as I looked around the room, and I saw what you had. You had love. You had love on your faces. You had joy in your hearts. You raised your hands, and you worshiped God, and I didn't have that. And I was so jealous, and so I trusted Christ." [02:25] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Well, the only thing that's here is a bunch of broken people who are sinners who have found the grace of Jesus Christ. And we are a part of the history of Calvary Bible Church because of his grace, and whatever has come before, and it's a lot for 135 years, has been a beautiful thing." [03:04] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We pray. Because the only thing that happens that's good here is what God does. And we're all broken, and we do the best we can, and we stumble along, and God gives us his grace, but he answers prayer, and he does exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we could ask or think. So you clapped a lot for that. But let's give glory to God for answered prayer." [07:28] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And we just started to say, what do we need to do to make sure Boulder knows that we're here to bless the city and to not be in the fortress together? And we decided to do kingdom assignments. How many of you were present for kingdom assignments? How many of you weren't? You got to hear a couple stories, okay? We just said, what will it take to move our church outside the four walls of this building so that we will bless the city of Boulder?" [10:31] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Don't hide your life in the ground. Don't keep your resources for you. God's given you everything you have. Use it for his glory. And then I said, if you weren't a part of that, there were only 100 people. There were probably 1,000 people in the church, and only 100 people were a part of that. We're going to do kingdom assignment number two next week, so come back next week." [14:47] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Do you know the history? And in the Old Testament, they said, remember, remember, remember, why are these stones here? That's because where God met us. And tell a couple of these stories just so that you'll say in your head, God's been faithful to Calvary Bible Church for all these years, and he really has." [22:11] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Do you know how many CU students have come into Calvary Bible Church, given their life to Christ, committed themselves to be in the ministry vocationally for the rest of their life? I mean, I could name 10 people who were CU students, and God redirected their life from CU, and they're now pastoring or on the mission field. And I think, wow, how awesome is that? Some of you are college students here today, or grad students, and you're not sure what you want to do. It could be that God wants to use you to go around the world and preach the gospel and the good news of Jesus." [25:40] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We are not here for ourself. This church is not a consumer church. don't come for the show. We don't come for religious goods and services. We come to worship God and declare his name in the world. And that's what we're gonna do, okay?" [35:08] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "If you're not sure what the good life is, the good life is following Jesus. And if you follow Jesus, you will have joy. You won't always have happiness. You won't always have things working out. But in the interior part of your life, you can know God loves you. He sent his son. He's forgiven you. You belong to him. And there is a joy that is different than ecstasy and happiness and exhilaration. It's a settled contentment. It's a settled contentment that God has me." [32:02] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We need to walk in the spirit, have his joy, be on mission, be guided by the word. We are not here for ourself. This church is not a consumer church. don't come for the show. We don't come for religious goods and services. We come to worship God and declare his name in the world. And that's what we're gonna do, okay?" [35:08] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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