Embracing Communion and the Pursuit of Wisdom
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we gather to reflect on the significance of communion and the profound truths it represents. Communion is a sacred act of remembrance, a way to recall the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus gave us the bread and the cup, not art or icons, to remember Him. His body was broken, and His blood was spilled for our salvation, creating a new humanity united by His sacrifice. This unity transcends all divisions, bringing together Jews and Gentiles, male and female, slave and free. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the forgiveness of sins and the grace we receive daily.
We also have the privilege of commissioning a team to serve at Camp Hope, a ministry partner in South Bend. This team will embody our vision of taking Christ's love to our homes, workplaces, and community. We pray for their unity, peace, and the impact they will have on those they serve.
Today's message focuses on the pursuit of wisdom, as illustrated in Proverbs 8. Wisdom is not hidden; it is shouting at the gates, calling us to listen and follow. Wisdom is for everyone, not just the elite. It imparts excellent truth, righteousness, and a discerning spirit. We are encouraged to create a "wisdom grid" in our lives, starting with Scripture, wise counsel, and time. Wisdom leads us to a life of righteousness, discernment, and prudence.
We are reminded that wisdom is not stationary; it requires action and carving out a path of shalom in our lives. As we conclude, we are invited to lay down our burdens and make room for wisdom, allowing it to transform us and guide our decisions.
### Key Takeaways
1. Communion as a Sacred Act of Remembrance: Communion is a profound way to remember Jesus' sacrifice. The bread and the cup symbolize His body and blood, broken and spilled for our salvation. This act unites us as a new humanity, transcending all divisions and reminding us of the forgiveness of sins we receive through Christ. [18:26]
2. The Call to Serve and Embody Christ's Love: Our vision as Christ followers is to take His love to our homes, workplaces, and community. The commissioning of the team to Camp Hope exemplifies this mission. We pray for their unity, peace, and the impact they will have, reminding us that we are all called to serve and make a difference. [31:11]
3. The Pursuit of Wisdom: Wisdom is not hidden; it is shouting at the gates, calling us to listen and follow. It is for everyone, not just the elite. Wisdom imparts excellent truth, righteousness, and a discerning spirit. We are encouraged to create a "wisdom grid" in our lives, starting with Scripture, wise counsel, and time. [44:35]
4. Wisdom Leads to Righteousness and Discernment: Righteousness is a lifestyle that distinguishes true Christians and often invites opposition from the world. It starts in our hearts and minds, transforming us from the inside out. Wisdom also imparts a discerning spirit, helping us to notice God's presence and make wise decisions. [55:08]
5. Wisdom Requires Action and Carving Out Shalom: Wisdom is not stationary; it requires action. We are called to carve out a path of shalom in our lives, just as God carved out the oceans, sky, and land. This involves laying down our burdens, making room for wisdom, and allowing it to transform us and guide our decisions. [51:19]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[18:26] - Communion: Remembering Christ
[19:17] - The Bread and the Cup
[20:01] - Unity in Christ
[20:44] - Forgiveness of Sins
[21:34] - Reflecting on Our Sin
[22:23] - Invitation to Communion
[31:11] - Vision and Mission
[31:29] - Commissioning the Camp Hope Team
[32:44] - Praying for the Team
[33:31] - Community Prayer
[36:15] - Reading of the Word
[38:45] - Generational Slang
[44:35] - The Call of Wisdom
[51:19] - Creating a Wisdom Grid
[55:08] - Righteousness and Discernment
[58:34] - The Value of Wisdom
[01:07:04] - Carving Out Shalom
[01:07:37] - Making Room for Wisdom
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 8:1-11 (ESV)
> Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights beside the way, at the crossroads she takes her stand; beside the gates in front of the town, at the entrance of the portals she cries aloud: “To you, O men, I call, and my cry is to the children of man. O simple ones, learn prudence; O fools, learn sense. Hear, for I will speak noble things, and from my lips will come what is right, for my mouth will utter truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing twisted or crooked in them. They are all straight to him who understands, and right to those who find knowledge. Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.”
2. Matthew 26:26-28 (ESV)
> Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
3. Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
> Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the symbols used in communion, and what do they represent? ([19:17])
2. According to Proverbs 8, where does wisdom position herself to be heard, and what does she offer to those who listen? ([44:35])
3. How does the sermon describe the unity created by Jesus' sacrifice? ([20:01])
4. What are the three components of a "wisdom grid" mentioned in the sermon? ([49:00])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the act of communion serve as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the unity it brings among believers? ([20:01])
2. In what ways does wisdom "shout" at the gates, and why is it important for us to listen? ([44:35])
3. How can the pursuit of wisdom lead to a life of righteousness and discernment, according to the sermon? ([55:08])
4. What does it mean to "carve out a path of shalom" in our lives, and how does this relate to the pursuit of wisdom? ([51:19])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your experience with communion. How does it help you remember Jesus' sacrifice and the unity it brings? ([19:17])
2. Think about a time when you felt wisdom was "shouting" at you. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? ([44:35])
3. What steps can you take to create a "wisdom grid" in your life? Consider starting with Scripture, seeking wise counsel, and allowing time for reflection. ([49:00])
4. How can you actively pursue righteousness and discernment in your daily life? What changes might you need to make? ([55:08])
5. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to "carve out a path of shalom." What practical steps can you take to achieve this? ([51:19])
6. How can you embody Christ's love in your home, workplace, or community this week? Consider specific actions you can take. ([31:11])
7. Reflect on the value of wisdom in your life. How can you make more room for wisdom to guide your decisions and transform you? ([51:19])
Devotional
Day 1: Communion as a Sacred Act of Remembrance
Communion is a profound way to remember Jesus' sacrifice. The bread and the cup symbolize His body and blood, broken and spilled for our salvation. This act unites us as a new humanity, transcending all divisions and reminding us of the forgiveness of sins we receive through Christ. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the grace we receive daily and the unity we share with all believers, regardless of our backgrounds or differences. This sacred act calls us to reflect deeply on the love and sacrifice of Jesus, fostering a spirit of gratitude and humility.
[18:26]
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." (1 Corinthians 11:26, ESV)
Reflection: As you prepare for communion, take a moment to reflect on the divisions in your life. How can you allow the unity of Christ's sacrifice to heal and bridge those divides today?
Day 2: The Call to Serve and Embody Christ's Love
Our vision as Christ followers is to take His love to our homes, workplaces, and community. The commissioning of the team to Camp Hope exemplifies this mission. We pray for their unity, peace, and the impact they will have, reminding us that we are all called to serve and make a difference. Serving others is a tangible expression of Christ's love, and it requires us to step out of our comfort zones and into the lives of those in need. This call to serve is not just for a select few but for every believer, as we are all part of the body of Christ.
[31:11]
"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (Hebrews 13:16, ESV)
Reflection: Think of one way you can serve someone in your community this week. How can you embody Christ's love in a practical and meaningful way?
Day 3: The Pursuit of Wisdom
Wisdom is not hidden; it is shouting at the gates, calling us to listen and follow. It is for everyone, not just the elite. Wisdom imparts excellent truth, righteousness, and a discerning spirit. We are encouraged to create a "wisdom grid" in our lives, starting with Scripture, wise counsel, and time. This pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong journey that requires intentionality and dedication. By seeking wisdom, we align ourselves with God's will and gain the ability to navigate life's complexities with discernment and grace.
[44:35]
"Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold." (Proverbs 3:13-14, ESV)
Reflection: What steps can you take today to create a "wisdom grid" in your life? Consider starting with a specific passage of Scripture or seeking counsel from a trusted mentor.
Day 4: Wisdom Leads to Righteousness and Discernment
Righteousness is a lifestyle that distinguishes true Christians and often invites opposition from the world. It starts in our hearts and minds, transforming us from the inside out. Wisdom also imparts a discerning spirit, helping us to notice God's presence and make wise decisions. This transformation is not instantaneous but a gradual process of becoming more like Christ. By embracing wisdom, we cultivate a life marked by righteousness and discernment, enabling us to stand firm in our faith and make choices that honor God.
[55:08]
"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." (Proverbs 10:9, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a recent decision you made. How did you seek wisdom and discernment in that process? What can you do to ensure your future decisions align with God's righteousness?
Day 5: Wisdom Requires Action and Carving Out Shalom
Wisdom is not stationary; it requires action. We are called to carve out a path of shalom in our lives, just as God carved out the oceans, sky, and land. This involves laying down our burdens, making room for wisdom, and allowing it to transform us and guide our decisions. Shalom, or peace, is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of wholeness and harmony. By actively pursuing wisdom, we create an environment where God's peace can flourish, impacting every aspect of our lives and relationships.
[51:19]
"Thus says the Lord: Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls." (Jeremiah 6:16, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one burden you are carrying today. How can you lay it down and make room for God's wisdom and shalom in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God's heart is to come and bring healing to the broken. To save those who are lost and reconcile the world back to him. Amen. He also says this. This is my body. How thankful can we be that Jesus came and dwelt among us. So that he can relate to those who he came to save." [18:26] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "His body was broken for us to be made whole again. He also said, this is my blood. We should feel eternally thankful. Thankful when thinking of the death of Christ. I have never thought we need to sensationalize it or dress it up. The simple truth of the details surrounding the death of Jesus will suffice. The affliction he endured on the cross. The darkness. The aloneness. All of it speaks loudly of the love of God for his people." [19:17] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When Jesus died and rose. Ascended. He created a new humanity. This new humanity was seen a little during the last supper. When in every instance since. As we gather. As they gathered. Eating from the same bread and drinking from the same cup. We are reminded of our unity to one another. A unity provided by the blood of Jesus." [20:01] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We as people, we battle against the self every single day. And we are in need of grace. We just sang about that. We sang about our testimony from death to life. And now we need to understand the resurrection story that Jesus wants to write in all of us. Because sin has been dealt with. And that's what we celebrate today." [20:44] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Gracious Father, we are so excited for this team. First, because they heard your call on their lives. You heard the knock on the door, Jesus, and they said yes. And they said yes to you, and they are going to put their, their faith into practice this week. So God, we pray for peace. We pray for unity. We pray for love. We pray for grace." [34:19] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Wisdom doesn't have any unique words that you have to figure out. Wisdom is clear and to the point. Wisdom is clear and to the point. It is not hiding. It is out in front for all to hear and that's what wisdom is doing." [42:44] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Wisdom calls out. In fact, in the Hebrew, it actually says that she's shouting wisdom. She said, she sets up at the gate. She sets up at all these places where people are going to be around. She is shouting wisdom to all who will listen." [45:14] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Wisdom can be found. Wisdom is not hiding. Wisdom again is at the gates, is at the crossroads screaming and yelling and I think there's times in my own lives that I have found that I can't find wisdom. And if I'm being honest with myself and I'm being honest with you and maybe even yourself being honest with yourself saying oftentimes it's not wisdom that I can't find. I cannot find but yet it is an internal battle of what I know is right and what I know is wrong." [48:00] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need you 60, 70, 80, 90 year olds because you have gone before us. You have lived a life that we need to learn from and those who are 40, 30, 20, we need to look to those older people and ask very wise questions. We need you older generation. We need you senior saints. You're not done." [49:43] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Wisdom's for everybody. Wisdom is not just for the elite of the elites and the smartest of the elite. It's for the smarts, right? It's for every single person. And wisdom makes this appeal. First to simple people, right? Simple people. I'm a simple person, right? I am not a brainiac. I was just talking to Kyle out in the foyer. I'm a simple person, right? I love being from the Midwest, Northern Indiana. We are simple people, y'all." [52:10] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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