Embracing Communion and Authority in Christ

 

Summary

In today's gathering, we explored the profound significance of communion and the authority bestowed upon believers through Jesus Christ. We began by reflecting on Isaiah 53 and 1 Peter 2:24, emphasizing the healing and redemption available through Christ's sacrifice. Communion is not just a ritual; it is a powerful reminder of the healing and wholeness that Jesus offers. As we partake in the elements, we are called to examine our hearts, ensuring that we are in right standing with God and others. This introspection is crucial, as it aligns us with the blessings and healing that God desires for us.

We delved into the concept of Heaven's Authority, which is the divine power and dominion delegated to believers. This authority is not passive; it is active and ready to be exercised in our lives. By understanding our position in Christ, as outlined in Ephesians, we recognize that we are seated in heavenly places, equipped with the full armor of God to stand against the enemy. The authority given to us is not just for personal benefit but for advancing God's kingdom on Earth.

The fall of humanity in Genesis highlighted the loss of authority due to sin, but through Jesus, the second Adam, this authority is restored. Jesus' work on the cross defeated Satan and reclaimed what was lost, offering us salvation and eternal life. As believers, we are called to walk in this authority, proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating the power of God through signs and wonders.

In closing, we are reminded that we are not mere spectators in this spiritual journey. We are active participants, equipped with the authority and power of the Holy Spirit. As we go forth, let us embrace our role as ambassadors of Christ, sharing the good news and living out the fullness of the gospel in every aspect of our lives.

Key Takeaways:

- Communion is a powerful act of remembrance and healing. It calls us to examine our hearts and align ourselves with God's will, ensuring that we are in right standing with Him and others. This introspection opens the door to the blessings and healing that God desires for us. [09:36]

- Heaven's Authority is the divine power and dominion delegated to believers through Jesus Christ. It is not passive but active, ready to be exercised in our lives. Understanding our position in Christ empowers us to stand against the enemy and advance God's kingdom. [21:40]

- The fall of humanity resulted in the loss of authority due to sin, but through Jesus, this authority is restored. Jesus' work on the cross defeated Satan, offering us salvation and eternal life. As believers, we are called to walk in this authority, proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating God's power. [55:15]

- We are not mere spectators in our spiritual journey. As active participants, we are equipped with the authority and power of the Holy Spirit. Embracing our role as ambassadors of Christ, we are called to share the good news and live out the fullness of the gospel. [56:16]

- The authority given to us is not just for personal benefit but for advancing God's kingdom on Earth. By understanding and exercising this authority, we can impact our communities, families, and personal lives, bringing about transformation and healing. [01:00:19]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:16] - Praise and Worship
- [02:03] - Introduction to Communion
- [02:39] - Isaiah 53 and Healing
- [04:33] - 1 Peter 2:24 and Redemption
- [06:11] - Spiritual Birthdays and Salvation
- [07:27] - The Role of Feelings in Faith
- [08:16] - Examining Our Hearts
- [09:36] - The Power of Communion
- [11:19] - The Importance of the Word
- [12:28] - Authority in Jesus' Name
- [21:40] - Understanding Heaven's Authority
- [37:22] - The Fall of Humanity
- [55:15] - Restoration Through Christ
- [56:16] - Walking in Authority
- [01:00:19] - Embracing Our Role as Ambassadors

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Isaiah 53:1-5
2. 1 Peter 2:24
3. Ephesians 2:4-6

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Isaiah 53, what are some of the specific sufferings that Jesus endured, and how do they relate to our healing? [03:36]

2. In 1 Peter 2:24, what does it mean that Jesus "bore our sins in his own body on the tree"? How does this connect to the concept of healing? [05:18]

3. How does Ephesians describe the believer's position in Christ, and what implications does this have for our authority as Christians? [36:31]

4. What role does introspection play in the act of communion, and why is it important for aligning ourselves with God's will? [09:36]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of Heaven's Authority, as described in the sermon, empower believers to stand against the enemy and advance God's kingdom? [21:40]

2. What does it mean for believers to be "seated in heavenly places" with Christ, and how does this affect our daily lives and spiritual battles? [36:11]

3. How does the restoration of authority through Jesus, the second Adam, change the way we view our role in God's plan for redemption? [55:15]

4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that believers are not just spectators but active participants in their spiritual journey? [56:16]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your personal experience with communion. How can you ensure that you are examining your heart and aligning yourself with God's will before partaking? [09:36]

2. Consider a situation in your life where you need to exercise Heaven's Authority. What steps can you take to actively stand against the enemy and advance God's kingdom in that area? [21:40]

3. How can you embrace your role as an ambassador of Christ in your community? Identify one specific action you can take this week to share the good news or demonstrate God's power. [56:16]

4. Think about a time when you felt like a spectator in your spiritual journey. What changes can you make to become a more active participant, equipped with the authority and power of the Holy Spirit? [56:16]

5. Identify an area in your life where you feel a loss of authority or control. How can you apply the understanding of your position in Christ to reclaim that authority and bring about transformation? [55:15]

6. How can you use the authority given to you not just for personal benefit but to impact your community, family, or personal life? What specific actions can you take to bring about transformation and healing? [01:00:19]

7. Reflect on the concept of being seated in heavenly places with Christ. How does this perspective change the way you approach challenges and opportunities in your life? [36:11]

Devotional

Day 1: Communion as a Pathway to Healing
Communion is a sacred act that goes beyond mere ritual; it is a profound reminder of the healing and wholeness offered through Jesus Christ. As believers partake in the elements, they are invited to examine their hearts, ensuring they are in right standing with God and others. This introspection is not just a formality but a crucial step in aligning oneself with the blessings and healing that God desires to bestow. By reflecting on the sacrifice of Christ, believers open themselves to the transformative power of communion, which serves as a conduit for divine healing and spiritual renewal. [09:36]

Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed."

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you need healing or reconciliation? How can you use the act of communion to invite God's healing into that area today?


Day 2: Exercising Heaven's Authority
Heaven's Authority is a divine power and dominion delegated to believers through Jesus Christ. This authority is not passive but active, ready to be exercised in the lives of those who understand their position in Christ. By recognizing that they are seated in heavenly places, believers are empowered to stand against the enemy and advance God's kingdom on Earth. This authority is not for personal gain but for the purpose of fulfilling God's mission, demonstrating His power, and bringing about transformation in the world. [21:40]

Ephesians 2:6 (ESV): "And raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: In what ways can you actively exercise the authority given to you by Christ in your daily life? How can this understanding change the way you approach challenges?


Day 3: Restoration of Authority Through Christ
The fall of humanity resulted in the loss of authority due to sin, but through Jesus, this authority is restored. Jesus' work on the cross defeated Satan and reclaimed what was lost, offering believers salvation and eternal life. As followers of Christ, they are called to walk in this restored authority, proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating God's power through signs and wonders. This restored authority is a call to action, urging believers to live out their faith boldly and impactfully. [55:15]

1 Corinthians 15:22 (ESV): "For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive."

Reflection: How can you actively walk in the authority restored to you through Christ? What steps can you take to proclaim the gospel and demonstrate God's power in your community?


Day 4: Active Participation in the Spiritual Journey
Believers are not mere spectators in their spiritual journey; they are active participants equipped with the authority and power of the Holy Spirit. Embracing their role as ambassadors of Christ, they are called to share the good news and live out the fullness of the gospel in every aspect of their lives. This active participation involves a commitment to spiritual growth, a willingness to serve others, and a dedication to living out one's faith authentically and courageously. [56:16]

2 Corinthians 5:20 (ESV): "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."

Reflection: What does it mean for you to be an active participant in your spiritual journey? How can you embrace your role as an ambassador of Christ in your daily interactions?


Day 5: Advancing God's Kingdom on Earth
The authority given to believers is not just for personal benefit but for advancing God's kingdom on Earth. By understanding and exercising this authority, believers can impact their communities, families, and personal lives, bringing about transformation and healing. This involves a commitment to living out one's faith in practical ways, seeking opportunities to serve others, and being a catalyst for change in the world. The call to advance God's kingdom is a call to action, urging believers to make a tangible difference in the world around them. [01:00:19]

Matthew 28:18-19 (ESV): "And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.'"

Reflection: How can you use the authority given to you to advance God's kingdom in your community? What specific actions can you take to bring about transformation and healing in the lives of those around you?

Quotes


Communion is not just a ritual; it is a powerful reminder of the healing and wholeness that Jesus offers. As we partake in the elements, we are called to examine our hearts, ensuring that we are in right standing with God and others. This introspection is crucial, as it aligns us with the blessings and healing that God desires for us. [00:09:36]

The authority given to us is not just for personal benefit but for advancing God's kingdom on Earth. By understanding and exercising this authority, we can impact our communities, families, and personal lives, bringing about transformation and healing. [01:00:19]

Heaven's Authority as it relates to the believer is the divine power, rule, and Dominion of God delegated to Believers through Jesus Christ. It is not passive but active, ready to be exercised in our lives. Understanding our position in Christ empowers us to stand against the enemy and advance God's kingdom. [00:21:40]

The fall of humanity resulted in the loss of authority due to sin, but through Jesus, this authority is restored. Jesus' work on the cross defeated Satan, offering us salvation and eternal life. As believers, we are called to walk in this authority, proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating God's power. [00:55:15]

We are not mere spectators in our spiritual journey. As active participants, we are equipped with the authority and power of the Holy Spirit. Embracing our role as ambassadors of Christ, we are called to share the good news and live out the fullness of the gospel. [00:56:16]

When Adam sinned, he lost his authority, and Satan, according to second Corinthians 4:4, became the God of this world. Now you can put that in your notes. I'm going to go ahead and read that here real quick, and so that's a part of that whose Minds the God of this age has blinded. [00:48:33]

The fall of humankind was the entrance of sin and death into the world while pointing to God's plan for Redemption through Christ. Jesus, as the second Adam, reverses the effects of the Fall by offering salvation, eternal life, and restoration of what was lost in Eden. [00:54:33]

Jesus through his work on the cross defeated Satan and restored Heaven's authority to Believers. The devil stole something in the Garden of Eden that was never his in the first place. He took something from those in Adam and Eve that was never belonged or to him in the first place. [00:55:15]

We have been redeemed from poverty, sickness, and death. Hallelujah, we have authority to come right here in this city and redeem back what the devil has stolen from us. We have authority in our families to go in and say, "Devil, enough is enough, you're not going to steal anymore." [00:56:16]

The authority that you have in the name of Jesus. I heard a beautiful prayer the other day, and they said, "Amen, God." Well, I'm like, well, what God are they praying to? When you pray to the father, you pray in the name of Jesus. These are very critical things. [00:49:33]

The Bible said they spoke with new tongues, they began to speak. You have to speak. It's not, and I'm telling you what, we're a spiritual church, but don't get super spiritual on me. There's some things you've got to do with authority and to be able to believe and receive. [00:50:19]

We have authority over the devil. In Colossians, the Bible said he was made a show of the devil openly. Jesus did make a show of him openly, triumphing over him in it. Remember that story of that kind man that I knew when I was out doing the yard work, just a great man. [00:51:19]

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