Embracing Church Responsibility for Community Revival
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound concept of church responsibility, emphasizing that our faith community is not just a place to gather but a mission field where each member plays a crucial role. We began by celebrating the spontaneous and heartfelt moments that reflect the essence of a "church without walls," where heaven rejoices with us. This led to a powerful call to action, urging those who feel a burden for ministry, especially in nursing homes, to step forward and ignite a spiritual revival among the forgotten souls in our community.
We delved into 1 Timothy 3:14, where Paul instructs leaders on how to conduct themselves in the house of God. This scripture underscores the importance of order and responsibility within the church. We discussed how the Word of God is a seed, and we, as the soil, are responsible for nurturing it to produce fruit in our lives. This responsibility extends to our collective role as a church, where we must prepare for the growth and revival that God promises, provided we are ready to receive it.
The sermon highlighted that Victory Tabernacle is not a cookie-cutter church; we are called to break the mold and embrace our unique mission. This includes baptizing and ministering to people in their latter years, defying traditional expectations. We are reminded that God has set us up for victory, not failure, and that our lives should reflect His glory through our testimonies of healing, prosperity, and overcoming adversity.
We also touched on the importance of unity and mutual respect within the church body. Leaders and members alike must honor and support each other, recognizing that every joint supplies and contributes to the growth of the whole body. This unity is essential as we prepare for the influx of new believers who will look to us as examples of what it means to live a Christ-centered life.
Finally, we emphasized the need for commitment, faithfulness, and giving as integral parts of our church responsibility. Being present, on time, and actively participating in the life of the church are not just duties but expressions of our devotion to God and each other. As we prepare for the growth and revival ahead, let us strengthen what is already here, ensuring that we are ready to embrace the souls God is sending our way.
### Key Takeaways
1. Call to Ministry in Nursing Homes: There is a profound need for ministry in nursing homes, where many souls are forgotten. God is calling someone to step into this role, to bring the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to those in their twilight years. This ministry can ignite a revival, bringing hope and salvation to many who feel abandoned. [01:57]
2. Church Responsibility and Order: According to 1 Timothy 3:14, church leaders and members must conduct themselves with order and responsibility. This involves nurturing the Word of God within us and preparing for the growth and revival that God promises. Our readiness to receive this growth is crucial for its manifestation. [09:46]
3. Breaking the Mold: Victory Tabernacle is called to break traditional molds and embrace its unique mission. This includes ministering to people in their latter years and defying conventional expectations. Our church is set up for victory, and our lives should reflect God's glory through testimonies of healing and prosperity. [12:26]
4. Unity and Mutual Respect: Unity within the church body is essential. Leaders and members must honor and support each other, recognizing that every joint supplies and contributes to the growth of the whole body. This unity prepares us for the influx of new believers who will look to us as examples of Christ-centered living. [43:03]
5. Commitment, Faithfulness, and Giving: Being present, on time, and actively participating in the life of the church are expressions of our devotion to God and each other. Commitment, faithfulness, and giving are integral parts of our church responsibility, ensuring that we are ready to embrace the souls God is sending our way. [01:03:39]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:57] - Call to Ministry in Nursing Homes
[03:27] - You Have a Ministry
[05:18] - Praise Team Acknowledgment
[06:41] - Church Responsibility
[09:46] - Order in the Church
[12:26] - Breaking the Mold
[13:54] - Unique Mission
[15:10] - Purpose of the Church
[16:26] - Light to the City
[18:33] - Set Up for Success
[20:19] - God’s Glory in Our Lives
[21:56] - Covenant Book of Instruction
[23:48] - Walking in Covenant
[25:40] - Kingdom Economy
[27:41] - Set Up for Victory
[29:55] - Perfecting the Saints
[31:26] - One with God
[32:27] - Living from Fullness
[33:19] - Living from Victory
[34:12] - Applying the Preaching
[35:09] - Spiritual Maturity
[37:12] - Work of the Ministry
[39:12] - Depth in God
[40:09] - No More Children
[41:13] - Maturing in the Word
[43:03] - Unity in the Body
[45:36] - Every Member’s Role
[46:37] - Pastor’s Responsibility
[48:07] - Submission to Authority
[49:10] - Pump Me Up Services
[50:14] - Obeying Spiritual Leaders
[51:22] - Accountability of the Pastor
[52:12] - Responsibility to the Church
[53:13] - Burden of the Word
[54:29] - Making Pastoring a Pleasure
[55:40] - Eternal Responsibility
[56:40] - Obeying God’s Word
[57:46] - True Shepherd
[58:58] - Preparing for Growth
[59:32] - God’s Example
[01:00:14] - Honoring Leadership
[01:01:24] - Mutual Respect
[01:02:37] - Church Attendance
[01:03:39] - Commitment and Faithfulness
[01:05:08] - Being on Time
[01:06:32] - Strengthening for Revival
[01:08:00] - Faithfulness in Giving
[01:09:47] - Responsibility to the Pastor
[01:11:00] - No Volunteers, Only Members
[01:12:37] - Financial Responsibility
[01:14:05] - Exhorting One Another
[01:15:06] - Building Each Other Up
[01:16:11] - Unity in the Body
[01:17:24] - Many Members, One Body
[01:18:29] - No Division
[01:19:23] - Harmony in Unity
[01:20:49] - Concern for Each Other
[01:21:51] - Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit
[01:22:53] - Helping Each Other
[01:23:47] - No Cliques
[01:24:26] - Sensitivity to Needs
[01:25:35] - Supporting Each Other
[01:26:25] - Prayer and Ministry
[01:27:12] - Altar Call
[01:28:18] - Healing Prayer
[01:30:25] - Receiving Healing
[01:31:14] - Agreement with God’s Word
[01:34:14] - Prophetic Word
[01:35:00] - No Closed Doors
[01:36:24] - Breaking Restraints
[01:37:15] - Unity in Leadership
[01:38:28] - Boldness in Ministry
[01:39:19] - Family Blessing
[01:40:38] - Personal Revelation
[01:42:22] - Spiritual Maturity
[01:43:11] - Clap Offering
[01:44:24] - Preparing for Growth
[01:45:03] - Strengthening Leadership
[01:46:00] - Praying for Pastor
[01:46:56] - Leading Through the Door
[01:47:43] - Discernment in Opportunities
[01:48:34] - Strengthening the Pastor
[01:49:11] - Praying for Youth
[01:49:51] - Spiritual Leadership
[01:50:31] - Mentoring the Youth
[01:51:12] - Praying for the Family
[01:52:10] - Mentoring Responsibility
[01:52:46] - Windows of Heaven
[01:53:12] - Wisdom and Knowledge
[01:53:49] - Closing Remarks
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Timothy 3:14-15 (ESV): "I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth."
2. 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."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Timothy 3:14-15, what is the purpose of Paul's instructions to the church leaders? How does this relate to the concept of church responsibility discussed in the sermon? [09:46]
2. In Ephesians 4:11-13, what roles are mentioned, and what is their purpose within the church? How does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on breaking the mold and embracing unique missions? [12:26]
3. What specific call to action was highlighted in the sermon regarding ministry in nursing homes? How does this reflect the church's responsibility to the community? [01:57]
4. How does the sermon describe the importance of unity and mutual respect within the church body? What scripture supports this idea? [43:03]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Paul’s instruction in 1 Timothy 3:14-15 about behavior in the household of God apply to modern church settings? What might be some examples of orderly conduct in today’s church? [09:46]
2. Ephesians 4:11-13 speaks about equipping the saints for the work of ministry. How can church members identify and utilize their spiritual gifts to contribute to the growth of the church? [27:41]
3. The sermon mentioned that Victory Tabernacle is not a cookie-cutter church and is called to break traditional molds. How can this perspective influence the way the church approaches its mission and outreach? [12:26]
4. Reflecting on the sermon’s emphasis on unity and mutual respect, how can church members actively foster a culture of support and honor within the congregation? [43:03]
#### Application Questions
1. The sermon called for ministry in nursing homes, highlighting the need to reach out to forgotten souls. Is there a specific group or community you feel called to minister to? How can you take the first step in this ministry? [01:57]
2. Paul’s instructions in 1 Timothy 3:14-15 emphasize the importance of order in the church. How can you contribute to maintaining order and responsibility in your church community? Are there specific actions you can take? [09:46]
3. The sermon stressed the importance of breaking traditional molds and embracing unique missions. What unique mission or calling do you feel God has placed on your heart? How can you begin to pursue it within your church? [12:26]
4. Unity and mutual respect are crucial for the growth of the church. How can you show support and honor to your church leaders and fellow members this week? Are there specific ways you can encourage and build up others? [43:03]
5. Commitment, faithfulness, and giving were highlighted as integral parts of church responsibility. How can you improve your commitment and faithfulness to your church? Are there areas where you can increase your participation or giving? [01:03:39]
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of being present and on time for church activities. How can you better manage your time to ensure you are punctual and fully engaged in church events? [01:05:08]
7. Reflecting on the sermon’s call to prepare for growth and revival, what steps can you take to strengthen your spiritual life and readiness to embrace new believers? How can you help your church prepare for the influx of new members? [01:06:32]
Devotional
Day 1: Ministry to the Forgotten Souls
The call to minister in nursing homes is a profound and urgent need. Many elderly individuals in these facilities feel abandoned and forgotten, yet they are precious in God's sight. This ministry is not just about providing comfort but igniting a spiritual revival among those in their twilight years. By bringing the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to these souls, we can offer hope, salvation, and a renewed sense of purpose. This is a unique and powerful mission field that requires compassion, dedication, and a heart for the elderly. [01:57]
Isaiah 46:4 (ESV): "Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save."
Reflection: Think of an elderly person in your life or community who may feel forgotten. How can you reach out to them this week to show God's love and care?
Day 2: Conducting Ourselves with Order and Responsibility
1 Timothy 3:14 emphasizes the importance of order and responsibility within the church. As members of the faith community, we are called to nurture the Word of God within us, ensuring it produces fruit in our lives. This responsibility extends to our collective role as a church, where we must be prepared for the growth and revival that God promises. Our readiness to receive this growth is crucial for its manifestation. By conducting ourselves with order and responsibility, we create an environment where God's promises can flourish. [09:46]
1 Corinthians 14:40 (ESV): "But all things should be done decently and in order."
Reflection: Reflect on an area of your life where you can bring more order and responsibility. How can this change help you and your church community be more prepared for God's promises?
Day 3: Embracing Our Unique Mission
Victory Tabernacle is called to break traditional molds and embrace its unique mission. This includes ministering to people in their latter years and defying conventional expectations. Our church is set up for victory, and our lives should reflect God's glory through testimonies of healing, prosperity, and overcoming adversity. By embracing our unique mission, we can make a significant impact on those around us and fulfill the specific calling God has placed on our church. [12:26]
Isaiah 43:19 (ESV): "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Reflection: What unique mission or calling do you feel God has placed on your heart? How can you begin to embrace and act on this calling in your daily life?
Day 4: Unity and Mutual Respect in the Church Body
Unity within the church body is essential for growth and revival. Leaders and members must honor and support each other, recognizing that every joint supplies and contributes to the growth of the whole body. This unity prepares us for the influx of new believers who will look to us as examples of Christ-centered living. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and support, we create a strong and healthy church community that can effectively minister to others. [43:03]
Ephesians 4:16 (ESV): "From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love."
Reflection: Think of a fellow church member or leader you can encourage and support this week. How can you show them honor and contribute to the unity of your church community?
Day 5: Commitment, Faithfulness, and Giving
Being present, on time, and actively participating in the life of the church are expressions of our devotion to God and each other. Commitment, faithfulness, and giving are integral parts of our church responsibility, ensuring that we are ready to embrace the souls God is sending our way. As we prepare for the growth and revival ahead, let us strengthen what is already here, ensuring that we are ready to embrace the souls God is sending our way. [01:03:39]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Reflect on your level of commitment and participation in your church community. What steps can you take to be more faithful and actively involved in the life of your church?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You have a ministry and it's waiting on you right now. It's waiting on you right now. It's waiting on you right now. Revival is waiting on somebody in this room, in some nursing homes in this city. My God. Hallelujah, Jesus." [03:27] (19 seconds)
2. "God has done everything necessary to set you up to be successful in life. God has done everything necessary to set you up to win in life, to be successful in life, to overcome anything that comes against you. God has set you up by putting you in. I'm going to show you in a minute through Scripture how God has set you up." [18:33] (22 seconds)
3. "God has set you up to be prepared and equipped to handle anything that this world throws at you. I'm going to say that again. I'm not talking to the Lone Ranger right now. I'm talking to anybody that is a member of this church. If you are a member of this local congregation, God has set you up to the point that you can be equipped to handle anything that the devil or that life throws at you." [19:29] (31 seconds)
4. "You've been set up. You've been set up to be successful. You've been set up to win. You've been set up not to just overcome, but you've been set up to conquer. I'm going to say it loud. Anything, anything, anything the devil throws at you. You've been set up. You've been set up. God has not set you up to fail. God ain't set you up to fail." [20:19] (28 seconds)
5. "Religion wants to tell you that when you're broke and when you're sick and when you're struggling and when you can barely make it in the world, looks at you and you come dragging your backside in the church with your tail tucked between your legs and you can't even pay it. You're so broke, you can't pay attention. And the doctor doesn't put some sickness on you and telling you it's incurable. But you still, y'all just hush, y'all just listen to me now. Because this is religion talking. But you still come walking in here and you're still loving Jesus and you're still praising Jesus." [21:56] (32 seconds)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The Lord told me to tell you this. If you will not prepare, I will not send the growth. If you will not prepare for the growth, I will not send the growth. If you want to go through the door that is before you, you must prepare, for what's on the other side of the door that's before you." [12:26] (20 seconds)
2. "You are not a cookie cutter church. You will never be a cookie cutter church. You're not going to fit the mold. I'm sorry to tell you that, but you're not going to fit the mold. You're not intended to fit the mold. You're going to break the mold. You're going to break the mold. You're going to break some rules. You're going to tear down, you're going to tear that mold all to pieces." [12:26] (16 seconds)
3. "If you call this your home church, I'm going to be talking to you a little bit today about church responsibility. If you call this, that this man, your pastor, this is my church. I need to talk to you about some things. Is that all right? Say, man, if you're a visitor here and this is not your home church, or you're not really settled into whether this is your home church or not, God bless you. Thank you for being here." [15:10] (23 seconds)
4. "We want to grow and we want to mature and we want to develop and we want to be and we want to do everything that God has for us. Somebody say amen to that right there. We want to grow. That's why we're here. We want to mature. That's why we're here and we want to be what God has designed us to be in this world, in this city, in this community. You're the light. You are the light to this city." [16:26] (29 seconds)
5. "If you are not doing and growing in the teaching of righteousness. That he is teaching you and training you and developing you. If you're just showing up. Throwing an offering in the plate. If you're not applying and acting and doing the word taught to you. You're not growing. You're not maturing in all that God has for you. You are not submitted to your spiritual authority. Your spiritual leadership." [48:07] (27 seconds)