Embracing Divine Opportunities: Faith, Worship, and Transformation
Summary
Gathering together as God’s family is a unique joy, a reminder that we are united not just by blood or friendship, but by the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. In John 1, we see the foundational truth of our faith: Jesus, the Word, was with God and is God, the true Light who gives light to everyone. Yet, even as the Creator entered His creation, many did not recognize or receive Him. Still, to all who did receive Him, He gave the right to become children of God. This is the heart of the gospel—an open invitation, an opportunity extended to all.
Life is full of opportunities, both great and small, to know God, to receive His love, and to share it with others. Every day, we are presented with moments to act, to speak, to serve, and to worship. Sometimes these opportunities are as simple as a conversation in a store or an invitation to church. Other times, they are moments of deep spiritual significance, like the night a child kneels to receive Christ. But with every opportunity comes obstacles—doubts, distractions, accusations, and even opposition from within and without. The enemy seeks to twist God’s Word, to make us question our worth, or to shame us for our worship.
Yet, the outcome of seizing these opportunities is profound. When we respond to God’s call, when we step past the obstacles, we become part of a story much bigger than ourselves. Like Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, we are invited to “come and see” where Jesus dwells, to follow Him, and to bring others along. The result is not just personal transformation, but the opening of heaven itself—lives changed, families restored, and the assurance of eternity with Christ.
Let us not take for granted the privilege of holding God’s Word, of gathering in worship, or of serving in His name. May we be attentive to the still, small voice of the Spirit, ready to act on the opportunities God places before us, undeterred by obstacles or opponents. The outcome is worth every step of faith.
Key Takeaways
- Opportunities Are Divine Invitations: Every day is filled with God-given opportunities to know Him more deeply, to serve others, and to share the light of Christ. These moments may seem ordinary, but they are sacred invitations to participate in God’s redemptive work. Recognizing and responding to these opportunities is a mark of spiritual maturity and gratitude. [39:51]
- Obstacles Are Part of the Journey: Just as Eve faced the serpent in the garden and Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, we too encounter obstacles—doubts, distractions, and opposition. These challenges are not signs to give up, but invitations to trust God more fully and to persevere in faith. The presence of obstacles often means the opportunity is significant. [55:29]
- The Word of God Is Central: How we treat the Bible reflects how we treat God Himself. The enemy’s first tactic is often to undermine or twist God’s Word, making us question its authority or relevance. Staying rooted in Scripture is essential for recognizing opportunities and overcoming obstacles. [50:05]
- Your Worth and Worship Matter: The world may question the value of your devotion or the sincerity of your worship, as seen in the story of the woman with the alabaster box. True worship is costly and sometimes misunderstood, but it is precious to God. Our worth is not determined by others’ opinions, but by our identity as children of God. [58:38]
- The Outcome Is Eternal: When we seize the opportunities God gives, the results reach far beyond this life. Like the disciples who followed Jesus, our obedience opens the way for others to encounter Christ and for heaven’s blessings to be revealed. The ultimate outcome is the joy of seeing lives transformed and the assurance of eternity with our Savior. [01:11:58]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[37:56] - The Joy of Gathering as God’s Family
[38:41] - John 1: The True Light and Our Foundation
[39:51] - Receiving Christ: The Power of Opportunity
[48:23] - Everyday Encounters: Sharing Faith in Simple Moments
[50:05] - Treasuring God’s Word
[50:56] - Personal Testimonies: Responding to God’s Call
[51:55] - The Fields Are Ready: Opportunities to Serve
[52:38] - Overcoming Obstacles and Opposition
[54:02] - Defining Opportunity: God’s Perspective
[55:29] - Temptation and the Attack on God’s Word
[57:02] - Accusations and the Cost of Worship
[58:38] - The Value of Your Devotion
[59:21] - Worship and the World’s Response
[01:11:58] - The Eternal Outcome: Heaven Opened
[01:12:58] - Invitation to Respond and Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
- John 1:1-14, 29-51
(The sermon’s main text, focusing on Jesus as the Word, the Light, and the invitation to become children of God, as well as the calling of the first disciples.)
- Genesis 3:1-6
(Eve’s opportunity and obstacle in the garden, referenced as an example of facing temptation and the enemy twisting God’s Word.)
- Matthew 4:1-11
(Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, showing how obstacles and the enemy’s attacks often come when we are presented with opportunities.)
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### Observation Questions
1. In John 1, what are some of the ways Jesus is described, and what do these descriptions tell us about who He is?
2. According to the sermon, what does it mean that “the world did not recognize or receive Him” (John 1:10-11)? [38:41]
3. What did the woman with the alabaster box do, and how did others respond to her act of worship? [57:02]
4. In the stories of Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, what was the outcome of their decision to follow Jesus? [39:51]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says that every day is filled with God-given opportunities. What does it mean to see ordinary moments as “divine invitations”? [39:51]
2. How does the enemy try to create obstacles when we are given opportunities to follow or serve God? Consider the examples of Eve in Genesis 3 and Jesus in Matthew 4. [54:02]
3. The pastor said, “The way you and I treat our Bible is the way that we treat God.” What does this statement suggest about the importance of Scripture in our daily lives? [50:05]
4. Why do you think true worship, like the woman with the alabaster box, is sometimes misunderstood or criticized by others? [58:38]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon described simple, everyday opportunities to share God’s love—like a conversation in a store or inviting someone to church. Can you think of a recent moment where you had an opportunity to show Christ’s love? Did you take it? Why or why not? [48:23]
2. What are some common obstacles or distractions that keep you from responding to God’s invitations in your life? How can you recognize and overcome them? [54:02]
3. The enemy often tries to twist God’s Word or make us question our worth. Are there specific lies or doubts you struggle with about your value or your faith? How can you combat these with truth from Scripture? [55:29]
4. The pastor shared that “how we treat the Bible reflects how we treat God.” What is one practical way you can treasure God’s Word more this week? [50:05]
5. Think about the story of the woman with the alabaster box. Is there an area of your life where you feel called to worship or serve God, even if others might not understand or approve? What would it look like to step out in faith anyway? [58:38]
6. The outcome of following Jesus is not just personal change, but the opening of heaven and the transformation of others. Who is someone in your life you can invite to “come and see” Jesus this week? What step will you take? [39:51]
7. The sermon ended with a call to listen for the “still, small voice” of the Spirit. How can you make space in your daily routine to hear God’s voice and be ready to act on His opportunities? [01:14:46]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for open eyes to see God’s opportunities, courage to overcome obstacles, and hearts that treasure God’s Word and worship Him fully.
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus, the True Light and Word of God
In the opening verses of John, we are reminded that Jesus is not only present at the beginning of creation but is Himself the very Word and Light that brings life to all humanity. He shines in the darkness, and though the world often fails to recognize or receive Him, His light remains undiminished. This foundational truth calls us to recognize the divine presence and power of Christ, who offers us the opportunity to step out of darkness and into His marvelous light. Each day, we are given the chance to receive Him anew, to let His life and light transform us from within, and to bear witness to His truth in a world that desperately needs it. [38:41]
John 1:1-5 (ESV)
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need to let the light of Christ shine today, dispelling darkness or confusion?
Day 2: Receiving Christ—The Power to Become God’s Children
The gift of salvation is offered freely to all, but it must be received personally. Just as one cannot use a pen without first accepting it, so too must we actively receive Christ to become children of God. This act of receiving is not merely intellectual agreement but a wholehearted trust and surrender to Jesus, believing in His name and embracing the new identity He gives. The opportunity is available to everyone, but it requires a response—will you receive Him and walk in the power and privilege of being called a child of God? [39:51]
John 1:12 (ESV)
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
Reflection: What does it mean for you, personally, to receive Christ today—not just once in the past, but in your present circumstances?
Day 3: Opportunities and Obstacles—Choosing to Act for Christ
Every day, God places before us countless opportunities to serve, witness, and grow in faith, but these are often accompanied by obstacles—distractions, doubts, or opposition. The story of Eve in the garden and the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness remind us that while opportunities abound, so do challenges. The true test of faith is not the absence of obstacles, but the willingness to act in spite of them, trusting God’s Word and seizing the moments He provides. Will you let obstacles hold you back, or will you step forward in faith, making the most of every opportunity God gives? [54:02]
Ephesians 5:15-16 (ESV)
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
Reflection: What is one specific opportunity God is placing before you today, and what obstacle do you need to overcome to act on it?
Day 4: Worship and Worth—Overcoming Accusations and Attacks
When we choose to worship and serve Christ, we may face accusations, misunderstandings, or even ridicule from others. The woman who anointed Jesus with costly ointment was criticized, yet she pressed on in her devotion, valuing Christ above all else. Our worth is not determined by the world’s opinions but by our relationship with God and our willingness to worship Him wholeheartedly. Even when others question or belittle your acts of faith, remember that true worship is precious to God and that He sees and honors your heart. [58:38]
Romans 12:1 (ESV)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Reflection: Is there an area where fear of criticism or rejection has kept you from worshiping or serving God fully? How can you offer yourself to Him today regardless of others’ opinions?
Day 5: The Outcome—Following Jesus and Seeing Heaven Open
When we respond to Christ’s invitation and follow Him, the outcome is far greater than we can imagine. Like Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, our decision to seek and follow Jesus leads to transformation, new identity, and the promise of seeing heaven open. The obstacles and opponents fade in comparison to the joy and privilege of knowing Christ and being part of His family. Each step of faith opens new doors of blessing and revelation, as we experience the reality of God’s kingdom in our lives. [01:11:58]
John 1:43-51 (ESV)
The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Reflection: What step of faith is Jesus inviting you to take today, trusting that He will reveal even greater things as you follow Him?
Quotes
Behold the lamb of god every jewish child who grew up in sabbath school on the sabbath day in sabbath school like we do sunday school every one of them knew what the lamb was for knew what the atonement was for knew what the sacrifice was all about they learned about it from grade school up and according to the first 12 verses they also rejected it and they rejected him and they rejected the propitiation they rejected the atonement they rejected the reconciliation they didn't take advantage of the opportunity they were the obstacle the outcome though. [01:04:07] (47 seconds)
When you got saved you changed your family name uh uh now you i know it's the same way it's on your driver's license now but i have a different family too so do you you see that's the outcome that's the outcome that we're looking for. [01:07:07] (16 seconds)
Do you understand the opportunities that you and I have as a Christian the obstacles we face the opponents that that deal with us all the time yes I know life is tough and it gets harder and harder as it goes and the culture around us is not helping that's for sure but I want you to know this the outcome is that from that day forth we are still now in the opportunity place where we can see the outcome of heaven and earth ascending and descending upon the Son of God our Lord and Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. [01:10:58] (35 seconds)
One of the attacks on our opportunities is that Satan has a tendency to attack the word of God. Half God said, or does God really think that this is important? Can I just go to church, read my Bible and give a little offering every week? Can I just do that and consider myself a Christian and I'm going to heaven? No, no, but to as many as received him, to them gave you the power to become the sons of God. Now that's a little bit different, isn't it? That's a little bit more unique. [00:56:13] (41 seconds)
He was not that light that is John the Baptist that we went he's not that light but he was sent to bear witness of that light he was sent to bear witness of that life now a witness is somebody who knows and has knowledge and tells the truth he's a witness you you know Christ you are a witness of the truth so you are duty bound to tell the truth about God about salvation about reconciliation you're you're required to do that. [00:41:17] (38 seconds)
But as many as received him to them gave you power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name you know how important that is to God that says it all the time Abraham believed and it was counted unto him for righteousness Moses I mean the list goes on and on and on. [00:44:00] (20 seconds)
Nathanael answered and said unto him in verse number 45 rabbi thou art the son of God thou art the king of Israel Jesus answered and said unto him because I said unto thee I saw thee under the fig tree believe us thou is that all it took to get you to believe Nathanael you have no idea the outcome of the personal of the personal opportunity that you've experienced you have no idea what the outcome is going to be we do verse 51 Nathanael is now talking to Christ and he saith unto him Jesus is telling Nathanael and he saith unto him verily verily truly truly verily verily I say unto you hereafter ye shall see heaven open and the angels of God ascending and descending upon son of man that's the outcome. [01:08:36] (68 seconds)
Sometimes when you and I have an opportunity to do something for Christ, to say something to someone, to give someone an encouragement, to say a fresh thought into someone's mind, into someone's heart, listen, those are the things, those are the things that opportunities that abound to you and I. And yes, there are obstacles and there are opponents, like twisting the word of God, like the worth of your Christian life, for. the fact that you're doing something that's such a waste not at all not at all heaven's door awaits you and i and i'm like pastor mike come even no wonder john at the end of the book of revelation said even so come quickly even so come quickly ready to go ready to go no matter what those obstacles. [00:59:21] (58 seconds)
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