Embracing Christ's Presence: Our Call to Action
Summary
In today's gathering, I shared a heartfelt message about the presence of Jesus in our lives and the responsibilities that come with being a follower of Christ. Reflecting on my personal journey, including my battle with throat cancer, I expressed gratitude for the support and love from this church community. This church has been a beacon of hope and a testament to God's work on earth, especially through its unwavering support for Falcon Children's Home and Family Services.
I recounted a humorous story about two mischievous boys who thought they had lost Jesus, highlighting how we sometimes live as if Jesus is absent from our lives. This led to a reflection on how our actions might change if we truly believed Jesus was physically present with us. Would it alter how we worship, give, or treat others? This introspection challenges us to live with the awareness of Christ's constant presence, influencing our daily interactions and decisions.
The sermon also emphasized the importance of recognizing our calling as Christians. Each of us has a unique role in God's kingdom, and it's crucial to actively participate in His work. I shared the story of Marvin Whitfield, who, even in his later years, felt compelled to start an alternative to abortion ministry, saving over 400 babies. This serves as a powerful reminder that God expects us to act and make a difference, regardless of our age or circumstances.
Furthermore, I highlighted the impactful work being done at Falcon Children's Home, including the establishment of Falcon Christian Academy and the expansion into foster care and human trafficking programs. These initiatives demonstrate the tangible ways we can serve and support those in need, embodying the love and compassion of Christ.
In closing, I urged everyone to consider what they would do if faced with the question, "What would you do?" when confronted with the needs of others. Our faith calls us to action, to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a world that desperately needs His love and grace.
Key Takeaways:
1. Living with Jesus' Presence: We often live as if Jesus is absent, but recognizing His constant presence should transform our actions and attitudes. Imagine how our worship, generosity, and relationships would change if we truly believed Jesus was physically with us. [40:44]
2. The Cost of Discipleship: Being a Christian comes with benefits, but it also requires action and sacrifice. God expects us to actively participate in His work, finding our place in His kingdom and serving others with love and compassion. [42:52]
3. Recognizing Our Calling: Every believer has a unique calling and role in God's kingdom. It's essential to embrace this calling and act upon it, just as Marvin Whitfield did with his ministry, demonstrating that age or circumstances should not hinder our service to God. [44:57]
4. Making a Difference: Falcon Children's Home exemplifies how we can make a significant impact through dedicated service. From education to foster care and human trafficking programs, these efforts show the power of collective action in transforming lives. [01:05:03]
5. Responding to Needs: Our faith challenges us to respond to the needs around us, asking ourselves, "What would you do?" This question compels us to act with compassion and courage, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways. [01:28:47]
Youtube Chapters:
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [33:04] - Personal Reflection and Gratitude
- [33:42] - The Presence of God in Our Lives
- [35:32] - Story of the Mischievous Boys
- [37:19] - What Would You Do?
- [40:00] - Imagining Jesus' Physical Presence
- [42:19] - The Benefits and Costs of Faith
- [44:17] - Recognizing Our Calling
- [45:33] - The Impact of Falcon Children's Home
- [55:50] - Marvin Whitfield's Ministry
- [01:05:03] - Falcon Christian Academy
- [01:15:17] - Foster Care and Human Trafficking
- [01:25:01] - Addressing Human Trafficking
- [01:28:47] - Responding to the Call
- [01:37:59] - Closing and Invitation to Harvest Train
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 10:1-3 - "After these things, the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. Then He said to them, 'The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.'"
2. Psalms 91:1-2 - "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.'"
3. Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations."
#### Observation Questions
1. What humorous story did the pastor share about two mischievous boys, and what was its significance? [35:32]
2. How did the pastor describe the impact of Falcon Children's Home and its various programs? [01:05:03]
3. What was Marvin Whitfield's response to the abortion clinic he passed by, and what ministry did he start as a result? [55:50]
4. How did the pastor illustrate the concept of living as if Jesus is physically present with us? [40:44]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. In what ways does the pastor suggest that recognizing Jesus' constant presence should transform our actions and attitudes? [40:44]
2. How does the story of Marvin Whitfield challenge the idea that age or circumstances should limit our service to God? [55:50]
3. What does the pastor mean by "the cost of discipleship," and how does it relate to actively participating in God's work? [42:52]
4. How does the pastor's personal journey with throat cancer influence his perspective on faith and community support? [33:04]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you acted as if Jesus was absent from your life. How might your actions have changed if you truly believed He was present? [36:29]
2. What unique calling do you feel God has placed on your life, and how can you actively pursue it despite any obstacles you face? [44:57]
3. Consider the needs in your community. What is one tangible way you can respond to these needs, embodying the love and compassion of Christ? [01:28:47]
4. How can you support initiatives like Falcon Children's Home in your own community, and what role can you play in making a difference? [01:05:03]
5. When faced with a challenging situation, how can you remind yourself of God's presence and strength as described in Psalms 91:1-2? [42:19]
6. How does the story of the patrons in the cafe challenge you to stand up for others in your daily life? What would you do differently if you knew Jesus was watching? [39:23]
7. What steps can you take this week to live more intentionally with the awareness of Jesus' presence in your interactions and decisions? [40:44]
Devotional
Day 1: Living with Jesus' Constant Presence
Recognizing Jesus' constant presence in our lives can profoundly transform our actions and attitudes. Often, we live as if He is absent, forgetting that His presence is a guiding force in our daily interactions. Imagine how our worship, generosity, and relationships would change if we truly believed Jesus was physically with us. This awareness challenges us to live with integrity and love, reflecting His teachings in every aspect of our lives. By acknowledging His presence, we can cultivate a deeper connection with Him and allow His influence to permeate our decisions and interactions. [40:44]
"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16, ESV)
Reflection: How would your behavior change today if you truly believed Jesus was physically present with you in every moment?
Day 2: The Cost of Discipleship
Being a follower of Christ comes with both benefits and responsibilities. While we receive His love and grace, we are also called to action and sacrifice. God expects us to actively participate in His work, finding our place in His kingdom and serving others with love and compassion. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the challenges that come with discipleship. By doing so, we not only grow in our faith but also contribute to the betterment of the world around us. [42:52]
"And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me." (Matthew 10:38, ESV)
Reflection: What is one specific way you can step out of your comfort zone today to serve others as a disciple of Christ?
Day 3: Recognizing Our Unique Calling
Every believer has a unique calling and role in God's kingdom. It's essential to embrace this calling and act upon it, regardless of age or circumstances. The story of Marvin Whitfield, who started a ministry in his later years, serves as a powerful reminder that God can use us at any stage of life. By recognizing and embracing our calling, we can make a significant impact and fulfill our purpose in His plan. This involves seeking His guidance and being open to the opportunities He presents to us. [44:57]
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
Reflection: What unique gifts or passions has God given you, and how can you use them to serve His kingdom today?
Day 4: Making a Difference Through Service
Falcon Children's Home exemplifies how we can make a significant impact through dedicated service. From education to foster care and human trafficking programs, these efforts show the power of collective action in transforming lives. By serving those in need, we embody the love and compassion of Christ, making a tangible difference in the world. This calls us to be proactive in identifying areas where we can contribute and to work together as a community to bring about positive change. [01:05:03]
"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:4, ESV)
Reflection: What is one specific way you can contribute to a community service initiative or support a cause that aligns with your values this week?
Day 5: Responding to the Needs Around Us
Our faith challenges us to respond to the needs around us, asking ourselves, "What would you do?" This question compels us to act with compassion and courage, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways. By being attentive to the needs of others, we can make a meaningful impact and demonstrate the transformative power of faith. This involves being open to the opportunities God places before us and being willing to step up and make a difference, even when it requires sacrifice. [01:28:47]
"But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?" (1 John 3:17, ESV)
Reflection: Who is someone in your life or community that you can reach out to today with an act of kindness or support?
Quotes
1) "But sometimes we live as if we think Jesus is missing. As if he's not there. As if he's not watching what we're doing. As if he doesn't care what we're doing for the kingdom. We live our life. Sometimes as if Jesus is absent. One of my favorite shows to watch is 2020 John Quinose. What would you do? It's a segment. They do about they set up a certain parameters would have actors play in parts and they watch the general public to see how they will react. And one episode stuck out of my mind at a cafe." [37:19] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "Would it change the way you give? Would it change the way you treat your fellow church member? Would it change the way you see the gas attendant when you leave here? it change the way you feel about someone who wronged you? Would you feel the need to go up and apologize to somebody on the other side of the sanctuary because you all got feelings against each other? What would it change? I tell you what, it would change the way I speak today. I tell you that right now." [40:44] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "In fact, I would say that, and they've had studies to show this, 70% of Christians suffer through some kind of anxiety at some point in time in their life. If you were here today, would it change the way you feel emotionally? Would you, you know, you're feeling weak and you're feeling like the world is against you, and perhaps you're dealing with anxiety and depression. If Jesus was here, if you could just touch the hem of his garment, if you could just lay your hand in his nail-print hands, would you feel better?" [42:19] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4) "But being a Christian is going to cost you something. You see, we can reap the benefits, but God expects us to do something. He doesn't expect us to sit in our recliner and watch Joel Osteen on Sunday and not get involved. He don't expect us to go hear Christian groups in concert and not give to the hungry, to those who are in need. You see, you've got to find your place in the kingdom. Every one of us has something we're supposed to do. And praise God, I feel like I'm doing what God wants me to do." [43:40] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5) "Every person has a calling in this room. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, every person has a calling. In Luke chapter 10, verses 1 through 3, after these things, the Lord appointed 70 others also and sent them two by two before his face into every city and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, the harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into the harvest." [44:17] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6) "We have served over 20,000 children at Falcon Children's Home. But can I tell you, there are still 400,000 children in the foster care system. And we started another children's home in South Carolina to work with us alongside Falcon Children's Home. So for the rest of today's program, you're going to see the children singing. You're going to see videos about our programs, and I'll come in and speak a little bit. But it's not about me. It's about these children. It's about our ministries, and I'm going to get out of the way." [46:40] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7) "You see again when we serve Jesus Christ with all our heart. All our soul, all our mind and all our strength. He expects something from us. He could have retired. But he said I've got to do something. So he started an alternative to abortion ministry for unwed mothers. So they would have an alternative to an abortion. And over 400 babies have been saved because of that. This church is a big supporter of that ministry." [57:35] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8) "We have served over 20 girls this past year. We have three there right now. About 70% of them run away because they've been so programmed. They're in this world and they can't seem to get out of it, but that's okay. We will. They're going to keep fighting. They're going to keep staying there. We have one young lady by the name of Brooklyn. Got up one morning and told the directors, I want to get this tattoo removed off my arm. And they said, why? I said, because it's the initials of my trafficker. And every morning when I get up and I see this, it makes me sick to my stomach." [01:28:07] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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