Continuing Our Mission: Glorifying God Together
Summary
### Summary
Today, we reflected on the incredible impact of our recent local missions week and the ongoing work God is doing through our church. We celebrated the tangible results, such as the $1,000 donation and the four professions of faith, but emphasized that our mission is far from over. We must continue to pray for the seeds planted and the souls reached, recognizing that our work is just beginning.
We then turned our hearts to a reflective prayer titled "Heaven Desired," which reminded us of our ultimate destination and the purity and completeness we will experience in God's presence. This prayer served as a poignant reminder that while we are pilgrims on this earthly journey, our eyes should remain fixed on our heavenly home.
The core of our discussion focused on the purpose of the local church, which is to bring glory to God. This is achieved through fulfilling the Great Commandment—loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves—and the Great Commission—making disciples of all nations. We explored how these commandments are lived out through worship, instruction, fellowship, and evangelism.
We also discussed the importance of church membership and the various "one another" passages in Scripture that guide our interactions within the body of Christ. These include being devoted to one another, honoring one another, and bearing one another's burdens. These principles help us function as a unified body, fulfilling our mission to glorify God and spread the gospel.
In conclusion, we were challenged to evaluate our involvement in the local church and to step forward in obedience to God's call. We were reminded that our supreme purpose is to glorify God in all that we do, and this is accomplished through our love for Him, our love for one another, and our commitment to the Great Commission.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Mission Continues: Our recent local missions week was a success, but it is just the beginning. We must continue to pray for the seeds planted and the souls reached, recognizing that our mission is ongoing and requires our continued dedication and support. [08:01]
2. Heaven Desired: Our ultimate destination is heaven, where we will experience complete purity and joy in God's presence. This perspective should shape our earthly journey, reminding us that we are pilgrims passing through and that our true home is with God. [15:20]
3. Purpose of the Church: The supreme purpose of the church is to bring glory to God. This is achieved through fulfilling the Great Commandment—loving God and our neighbors—and the Great Commission—making disciples of all nations. Our actions and interactions within the church should reflect this purpose. [48:50]
4. One Another Passages: Scripture provides numerous "one another" passages that guide our interactions within the body of Christ. These include being devoted to one another, honoring one another, and bearing one another's burdens. These principles help us function as a unified body, fulfilling our mission to glorify God and spread the gospel. [01:09:58]
5. Call to Action: We are challenged to evaluate our involvement in the local church and to step forward in obedience to God's call. Our supreme purpose is to glorify God in all that we do, and this is accomplished through our love for Him, our love for one another, and our commitment to the Great Commission. [01:16:23]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[07:02] - Recap of Local Missions Week
[12:52] - God's Provision and Encouragement
[13:37] - Reflective Prayer: Heaven Desired
[16:54] - Call to Separate from the World
[17:46] - Building on the Solid Rock
[43:11] - Importance of Church Community
[44:51] - Potential to Impact the Community
[46:09] - Influence Your Circle
[47:34] - Evaluating Our Involvement
[48:50] - Purpose of the Local Church
[55:27] - The Great Commandment
[01:01:05] - The Great Commission
[01:05:16] - Fulfillment Through Worship
[01:09:58] - One Another Passages
[01:16:23] - Call to Action and Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14 - "to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved... so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory... who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
2. Matthew 22:37-39 - "And he said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'"
3. Matthew 28:19-20 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the two greatest commandments according to Jesus in Matthew 22:37-39?
2. In Ephesians 1:6, 12, and 14, what phrase is repeated that indicates the purpose of our actions and existence?
3. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are the specific actions Jesus commands His followers to take?
4. What were some of the tangible results of the recent local missions week mentioned in the sermon? [07:02]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the repeated phrase "to the praise of his glory" in Ephesians 1:6, 12, and 14 shape our understanding of the purpose of the church? [48:50]
2. What does it mean to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and how does this command relate to loving your neighbor as yourself? [55:27]
3. How can the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 be practically fulfilled in our daily lives and within our local church community? [01:01:55]
4. Reflecting on the sermon, why is it important to evaluate our involvement in the local church and step forward in obedience to God's call? [47:34]
#### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized that our mission continues beyond the local missions week. What specific steps can you take to continue supporting the mission work in our community? [08:01]
2. How does the prayer "Heaven Desired" influence your perspective on earthly life and your ultimate destination? How can this perspective change your daily actions? [15:20]
3. In what ways can you actively participate in fulfilling the Great Commandment and the Great Commission within our church? Identify one specific action you can take this week. [48:50]
4. The sermon mentioned various "one another" passages. Which one resonates with you the most, and how can you apply it in your interactions within the church? [01:09:58]
5. Evaluate your current involvement in the local church. Are there areas where you feel called to step up and serve more actively? What steps will you take to answer this call? [47:34]
6. Think of a person in your life who does not know Christ. How can you influence your circle with the gospel this week? What specific action will you take to reach out to them? [46:09]
7. Reflect on the importance of church membership as discussed in the sermon. How can you contribute to fostering a sense of unity and commitment within our church community? [01:09:58]
Devotional
Day 1: The Mission Continues
Our recent local missions week was a significant milestone, marked by a $1,000 donation and four professions of faith. However, this is just the beginning of our journey. The seeds planted during this week need our continued prayers and support to grow and bear fruit. Our mission is ongoing, and it requires our dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of those we have reached. We must remain vigilant and committed, recognizing that the work of spreading God's love and message is a continuous process. Let us be steadfast in our efforts, knowing that every prayer and act of kindness contributes to the advancement of God's kingdom. [08:01]
Matthew 9:37-38 (ESV): "Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'"
Reflection: Think of one person you encountered during the missions week. How can you continue to support and pray for their spiritual journey today?
Day 2: Heaven Desired
Our ultimate destination is heaven, where we will experience complete purity and joy in God's presence. This perspective should shape our earthly journey, reminding us that we are pilgrims passing through and that our true home is with God. The prayer "Heaven Desired" serves as a poignant reminder of this truth, encouraging us to keep our eyes fixed on our heavenly home. As we navigate the challenges and trials of this world, let us find comfort and motivation in the promise of eternal life with God. This eternal perspective can transform our daily lives, giving us hope and purpose as we strive to live in a way that honors Him. [15:20]
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV): "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: How does the promise of heaven influence your daily decisions and actions? What can you do today to keep your focus on your eternal home?
Day 3: Purpose of the Church
The supreme purpose of the church is to bring glory to God. This is achieved through fulfilling the Great Commandment—loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves—and the Great Commission—making disciples of all nations. Our actions and interactions within the church should reflect this purpose. Worship, instruction, fellowship, and evangelism are the means through which we live out these commandments. By prioritizing these activities, we ensure that our church remains focused on its mission to glorify God and spread His message of love and salvation. [48:50]
Ephesians 3:10-11 (ESV): "So that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the church's mission of glorifying God and fulfilling the Great Commandment and Great Commission? What specific action can you take this week?
Day 4: One Another Passages
Scripture provides numerous "one another" passages that guide our interactions within the body of Christ. These include being devoted to one another, honoring one another, and bearing one another's burdens. These principles help us function as a unified body, fulfilling our mission to glorify God and spread the gospel. By practicing these commands, we create a supportive and loving community that reflects God's love to the world. Let us strive to embody these principles in our daily interactions, building a church that is marked by genuine care and mutual support. [01:09:58]
Galatians 6:2 (ESV): "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Reflection: Think of a fellow church member who may be struggling. How can you support and encourage them today in a way that reflects the "one another" passages?
Day 5: Call to Action
We are challenged to evaluate our involvement in the local church and to step forward in obedience to God's call. Our supreme purpose is to glorify God in all that we do, and this is accomplished through our love for Him, our love for one another, and our commitment to the Great Commission. This call to action requires us to assess our current level of engagement and seek ways to deepen our commitment. Whether through serving, giving, or simply being more present, each of us has a role to play in advancing God's kingdom. Let us respond to this challenge with a willing heart and a desire to make a meaningful impact. [01:16:23]
James 1:22 (ESV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
Reflection: What is one specific area of church life where you feel called to increase your involvement? How can you take a concrete step towards that today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Guys, God is at work. Don't ever think that He's not. And He's providing, He's bringing the souls that need to hear the gospel. He's bringing the workers to share the gospel. And He's got the backbone already in place with you all. And so I can't say it enough. I'm proud of you as your pastor. Thank you for those of you who filled the gaps. Thank you for those of you who stepped in, helped, served, gave, supported, prayed. And I encourage us to continue to do so. Because it's just begun. We're not finished. And I'm thankful He's not finished with us. Amen?" [12:52] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I hope you understand that the potential in this room to turn lenore county wayne county uh the surrounding area upside down for the cause of christ the potential to do that rest in this room and if you don't believe that then you're selling yourself short and you're not taking god at his word because i'm a firm believer in what god tells me and he tells me this in the in his word he says lift up your your eyes and look unto the field that the harvest is plentiful it's the laborers that are few." [44:51] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When's the last time you invited somebody to join you on a pew? When's the last time you reached out to that neighbor and said, hey, I would love to have you over for dinner sometime? Again, we're all called to be the hands and feet of Christ and we need to influence the circle that he's put us in. Community Baptist Church is in LaGrange. And this is where he's called us to make an impact. Church, I believe the potential in this room is more than enough to not only see this church packed each and every week coming to hear the word of God that they've heard, but that they might grow thereby. Are you willing?" [47:00] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So the next time, the enemy wants to lie to you about the failure you are or send you those signals to your mind that somehow you don't measure up or you're not the mom that other moms are or you're not the best student or you're not, whatever those lies are that constantly hit your mind, you just bring those thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. Because the last time I checked, it's to the praise of His glorious grace with which He's blessed us in the beloved. I'm a child of the King." [52:09] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Church, we have a mission. We've got to go and tell the world the bad news so we can tell them the good news. We've got to tell them that they've broken God's law, they've offended Him, and they need a Savior. And Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. I know this past week, a lot of you, rightfully so, outraged over what you saw in the Olympics on full display and just seemingly mockery of our Lord and Savior. I And I know there's a lot of various takes on what, you know, should or shouldn't. Again, look, the world is going to be the world. They're going to act like the world. They're lost. They're blind. They don't know. That's why you and I must go to them." [01:03:34] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "God has given us his word god cannot lie and anything that you and i are building apart from his truth will not stand and so one of the things that we believe in here at community baptist church one of the things we seek to preach and practice is holding forth the word of life and that means we live it we live it out but you got to know it before you can live it and so if we're not aware of the scriptures if we're not digging in to the scriptures studying to show ourselves approved then we won't rightly divide it and it will be shameful in the presence of the lord." [17:46] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Church, this is one of our calls. This is one of our missions. And in Christ, in Christ, I can. In Christ, I can love my neighbor. I can love God. I can because of who He is, because of what He's done. And the purpose, this purpose accomplished in the following ways. It's the church's responsibility toward the unsaved world. Summarize. Summarize by filling the Great Commission. So not only do I have the great command to love God and love my neighbor, I can also fulfill this by fulfilling the Great Commission." [01:01:05] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Church, our purpose to glorify God. And you and I are going to glorify God when we obey God. When we let His word be our standard. Not my emotions. Not my feelings. Not what other churches are doing. Not what we think is right in our own eyes. But what is God's standard? What does God say? And that comes to bear on all of us. Every one of us. Regardless of where I'm at in the body. How? How are we going to glorify God? We're going to do it through the great commandment. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, your soul, your mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself." [01:16:23] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Church membership is, again, it's part of God's plan for the local church. It's in the scriptures. Now, it might not say, thou shalt be a church member. You're not going to find Trinity spelled out either, but it's there. There are certain concepts that are there without the label. And church membership is understood. Biblical principles provide guidelines and flexibility, allowing the local church to function in every historical and cultural situation. You see, it doesn't matter if it's from Jesus' day to our day. The biblical truths that we find in scripture are what help us to shape and navigate during each and every stage of culture and life throughout history." [01:09:58] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Church, our purpose to glorify God. And you and I are going to glorify God when we obey God. When we let His word be our standard. Not my emotions. Not my feelings. Not what other churches are doing. Not what we think is right in our own eyes. But what is God's standard? What does God say? And that comes to bear on all of us. Every one of us. Regardless of where I'm at in the body. How? How are we going to glorify God? We're going to do it through the great commandment. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, your soul, your mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself." [01:16:23] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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