Choosing the Right Path: Life's Eternal Consequences
Summary
In today's Jesus Celebration Service, we explored the theme "One of Two Ways," emphasizing the critical choices we face in life and their eternal consequences. Life presents us with multiple paths, but ultimately, we must choose between two: the path that leads to life and prosperity or the one that leads to destruction. As followers of Christ, we are privileged to be set on the right path, guided by Jesus, who has walked the path before us and knows the way. Our journey requires us to live within the boundaries of God's will, ensuring that our actions align with His desires for us.
We delved into Mark 9:42-48, where Jesus warns against causing others to stumble in their faith. This passage highlights the seriousness of our walk with God and the importance of living a disciplined life. The narrow path, though challenging, leads to eternal life, while the broad path, which offers temporary pleasures, leads to destruction. We are reminded that our choices have eternal implications, and we must strive to enter through the narrow gate, even if it means sacrificing personal comfort or desires.
The sermon also emphasized the importance of personal accountability in our spiritual journey. Each of us must make our own decision to follow Christ, as the narrow gate does not allow for side-by-side entry. Our relationship with God is personal, and we must strive to maintain it through obedience and faithfulness. The devil fears those who take God seriously and live in obedience, not those who merely attend church or read the Bible.
As we partake in communion, we are reminded of our commitment to the narrow way, the path that leads to life. This sacred act symbolizes our dedication to following Christ and living a life that honors Him. We are encouraged to cast our burdens upon the Lord, trusting Him to guide us and provide for our needs. In doing so, we align ourselves with His will and experience the fullness of life He offers.
Key Takeaways:
- Life presents us with two paths: one leading to life and prosperity, and the other to destruction. As followers of Christ, we are called to choose the path that aligns with God's will, ensuring our actions reflect His desires for us. [28:18]
- Our walk with God requires discipline and accountability. We must strive to live within the boundaries of God's will, understanding that our choices have eternal consequences. The narrow path, though challenging, leads to eternal life. [32:18]
- Personal accountability is crucial in our spiritual journey. Each of us must make our own decision to follow Christ, as the narrow gate does not allow for side-by-side entry. Our relationship with God is personal and requires obedience and faithfulness. [01:02:28]
- The devil fears those who take God seriously and live in obedience. Our commitment to God should be unwavering, and we must strive to maintain our relationship with Him through obedience and faithfulness. [46:18]
- Communion is a reminder of our commitment to the narrow way, the path that leads to life. As we partake, we are encouraged to cast our burdens upon the Lord, trusting Him to guide us and provide for our needs. [01:15:13]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[28:18] - Two Paths in Life
[29:17] - Navigating Life's Choices
[30:25] - Following Jesus
[31:00] - The Importance of God's Boundaries
[32:18] - Accountability and Consequences
[34:29] - Seriousness of Following Jesus
[35:57] - Watch Out for Distractions
[36:44] - Trusting the Right Leader
[39:59] - Choices and Their Outcomes
[40:43] - Entering into Life
[44:01] - Avoiding the Wrong Path
[52:29] - The Narrow Gate
[53:05] - The Broad Way's Deception
[54:54] - The Right of God
[55:35] - The Difficulty of the Right Path
[56:28] - The Story of Judas
[57:46] - The Value of God's Path
[58:50] - Accepting Jesus as Savior
[01:01:14] - The Narrow Gate's Individual Journey
[01:02:28] - Striving for the Narrow Door
[01:04:39] - Discipline and Subjection
[01:06:13] - Taking God Seriously
[01:09:09] - Surrendering to God
[01:15:13] - Communion and Commitment
[01:20:00] - Receiving God's Peace
[01:24:56] - Closing Announcements
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "One of Two Ways"
Bible Reading:
- Mark 9:42-48
- Matthew 7:13-14
- 1 Corinthians 9:27
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Observation Questions:
1. In Mark 9:42-48, what does Jesus say about causing others to stumble in their faith? How does this passage emphasize the seriousness of our actions? [34:29]
2. According to Matthew 7:13-14, what are the characteristics of the narrow and broad paths? How does this relate to the choices we make in life? [53:05]
3. What does 1 Corinthians 9:27 suggest about the importance of discipline in our spiritual journey? How does this relate to the sermon’s emphasis on personal accountability? [01:04:39]
4. How does the sermon describe the consequences of choosing the broad path over the narrow path? What examples are given to illustrate this point? [57:21]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. Why does Jesus use such strong language in Mark 9:42-48 about causing others to stumble? What does this tell us about the value of our influence on others? [34:29]
2. How does the concept of the narrow gate in Matthew 7:13-14 challenge common perceptions of freedom and choice in today’s society? [53:05]
3. In what ways does 1 Corinthians 9:27 highlight the need for self-discipline in maintaining a faithful walk with God? How does this connect to the sermon’s message about personal accountability? [01:04:39]
4. The sermon mentions that the devil fears those who take God seriously and live in obedience. How does this perspective influence our understanding of spiritual warfare and the Christian life? [46:18]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you had to choose between a difficult but right path and an easier but wrong one. How did you make your decision, and what was the outcome? [29:45]
2. The sermon emphasizes personal accountability in our spiritual journey. What steps can you take this week to ensure your actions align with God’s will? [01:02:28]
3. How can you be more mindful of your influence on others, especially in your faith community, to avoid causing anyone to stumble? [34:29]
4. Consider the distractions in your life that might lead you away from the narrow path. What practical steps can you take to minimize these distractions? [35:57]
5. The sermon discusses the importance of discipline in our walk with God. Identify one area of your spiritual life where you need more discipline and create a plan to address it. [01:04:39]
6. How can you remind yourself of the eternal consequences of your daily choices, especially when faced with temptations or challenges? [39:59]
7. Communion is a reminder of our commitment to the narrow way. How can you use this sacred act to renew your dedication to following Christ in your daily life? [01:15:13]
Devotional
Day 1: Choosing the Path of Life
Life presents us with two distinct paths: one leading to life and prosperity, and the other to destruction. As followers of Christ, we are called to choose the path that aligns with God's will, ensuring our actions reflect His desires for us. This choice is not merely about avoiding sin but actively pursuing a life that honors God. The path to life is marked by obedience, faithfulness, and a commitment to living within the boundaries set by God. It requires discernment and a willingness to sacrifice temporary pleasures for eternal rewards. The decision to follow this path is a daily one, requiring constant vigilance and dedication. [28:18]
Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (ESV): "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days, that you may dwell in the land that the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take today to ensure you are choosing the path that aligns with God's will?
Day 2: Walking with Discipline and Accountability
Our walk with God requires discipline and accountability. We must strive to live within the boundaries of God's will, understanding that our choices have eternal consequences. The narrow path, though challenging, leads to eternal life. This path demands a disciplined life, where we are mindful of our actions and their impact on our spiritual journey. Accountability is crucial, as it helps us stay on track and avoid the distractions that can lead us astray. By holding ourselves accountable and seeking guidance from fellow believers, we can navigate the narrow path with confidence and assurance. [32:18]
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (ESV): "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more discipline to stay on the narrow path?
Day 3: Embracing Personal Accountability
Personal accountability is crucial in our spiritual journey. Each of us must make our own decision to follow Christ, as the narrow gate does not allow for side-by-side entry. Our relationship with God is personal and requires obedience and faithfulness. This means taking responsibility for our spiritual growth and not relying solely on others for our faith journey. It involves a commitment to daily prayer, Bible study, and seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life. By embracing personal accountability, we strengthen our relationship with God and ensure that we are on the right path. [01:02:28]
Galatians 6:4-5 (ESV): "But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load."
Reflection: How can you take greater responsibility for your spiritual growth and ensure you are walking through the narrow gate?
Day 4: Living in Obedience and Faithfulness
The devil fears those who take God seriously and live in obedience. Our commitment to God should be unwavering, and we must strive to maintain our relationship with Him through obedience and faithfulness. This involves a conscious effort to align our actions with God's will and resist the temptations that seek to draw us away from Him. By living in obedience, we demonstrate our love for God and our desire to honor Him in all that we do. Faithfulness is not just about attending church or reading the Bible but living out our faith in every aspect of our lives. [46:18]
James 4:7-8 (ESV): "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take to live more obediently and faithfully in your daily life?
Day 5: Committing to the Narrow Way
Communion is a reminder of our commitment to the narrow way, the path that leads to life. As we partake, we are encouraged to cast our burdens upon the Lord, trusting Him to guide us and provide for our needs. This sacred act symbolizes our dedication to following Christ and living a life that honors Him. It is a time to reflect on our spiritual journey and renew our commitment to the path of life. By trusting in God's provision and guidance, we can experience the fullness of life He offers and remain steadfast in our faith. [01:15:13]
Psalm 55:22 (ESV): "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved."
Reflection: As you reflect on your commitment to the narrow way, what burdens do you need to cast upon the Lord today?
Quotes
1. "We serve a good God. God is totally good. And the devil is totally bad. Praise the Lord. We're going to hear the word of God. And then we'll come to the Lord's table. The message today, I have titled it, One of Two Ways. Praise the Lord. One of Two Ways. Yes. One of Two Ways. There is always at least two ways. But you have the option to take one." ([00:28:09] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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2. "In life we are navigating. Through this life. But the path you take. There is one that will lead you to success. And there is one that will lead you to destruction. Amen. One will lead you to increase and prosperity. One will lead you to something else. So those are the options that we have. And as Christians who have been called by God. And you know. Given this privilege. We must thank him that he has set us on the right path. It is very important." ([00:29:24] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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3. "You have been set on the right path. Because as a follower of Christ. You are following him. So he is leading you. And you are following him. Praise the Lord. And you know that if Jesus is leading you. As his follower. You will not miss your way. Praise the Lord. Tell somebody you will not miss your way. If you keep following Jesus. But if you decide. To go on your own way. Then. Chances are that you will land where you don't expect yourself to land." ([00:30:07] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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4. "You know, in this life, we may have the liberty to do so many things. You have the right to do whatever you want. But it's not everything that happens. Everything that you do, that will benefit you. It's not everything that you do, that will help you. So, it is very helpful to live your life within the boundaries of God. Within the limitations of God. If you are living your life within the boundaries and the limitations of God, guarantee your will will be prosperous." ([00:31:47] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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5. "Following Jesus is a serious business. It's a serious thing. It's not something that you can do it anyhow you want. You cannot serve God on your own terms. You cannot worship God on your own terms. You have to live your life within the boundaries of God. That is the only way you can be assured of good life on earth and a good life after him." ([00:34:29] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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6. "There is only one of two ways and it's either you are on the right way or you are on the wrong way praise the lord and you can be on the wrong way unconsciously that's if you don't pay attention to where you are going you know that a driver can be driving unconsciously without paying attention that's how accidents happen that's how they find themselves in their ditch so don't live a christian life without knowing where you are going without knowing where it is leading you praise the lord." ([00:46:57] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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7. "The narrow gateway comes with limitations. Limitations that are good for you. Limitations that will help you. That's what the narrow gateway does. But the broad way, you know, allows you to do what you want. Whatever you choose. And whatever you want. You can drink all you want. You can smoke all you want. You can have sex all you want. You can do all that you want. But you find yourself in hell." ([01:30:58] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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8. "The devil is not afraid of the person who goes to church. The devil is not afraid of the person who reads the Bible. The devil is not afraid of the person, you know, who makes themselves look super spiritual. But the devil is afraid of the one who is obedient to God. The devil is afraid of the one who takes God seriously. Praise the Lord. That's the person the devil is afraid of." ([01:17:13] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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9. "So strive to enter the narrow door. Force aside unbelief and the attractions of sin. For many, I tell you, will try to enter by their own works. So your own works will not give you access. Jesus will give you access. So many will try to enter by their own works and will not be able. Hallelujah. They will not be able." ([01:03:42] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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10. "You must accept Jesus as Lord and personal Savior for you to have life. Otherwise you do all the good that you want to do. It is not your goodness that necessarily will take you to heaven. It is… you are accepting Christ as Lord and personal Savior. savior then your good works will be meaningful amen your good works is worthless if you don't have jesus as your lord and savior." ([01:59:49] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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