Embracing God's Design for Community and Revival
Summary
In today's gathering, we celebrated the conclusion of our 21-day fast, a period dedicated to seeking God's presence, purpose, and provision. As we break this fast, we are reminded of the importance of immersing ourselves in God's presence, allowing His spirit to fill our lives and guide our actions. This morning, we also took a moment to pray over our mission team heading to Africa, asking for divine protection and open doors for ministry. We believe in the power of prayer to transform lives and create opportunities for sharing faith and witnessing miracles.
Our focus today was on understanding the church's role and design according to God's pattern. Reflecting on the Old Testament, we see that God instructed Moses to build the tabernacle according to a specific pattern, emphasizing that God inhabits what He designs. This principle extends to the church today, urging us to build according to His divine blueprint rather than our preferences. In the New Testament, we see the church's progression from promise and prophecy in the Gospels to its birth in Acts, and finally, its development in the epistles.
The early church, as described in Acts, was marked by a commitment to the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. These elements fostered a vibrant community full of life and passion. Today, we are challenged to return to this model, prioritizing our commitment to God, community, and prayer. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the church as the body of Christ, where every member contributes uniquely, and no gift is greater than another. This unity and diversity within the body are essential for fulfilling God's purpose.
As we move forward, let us embrace the principle of love, especially when friction arises. Choosing love allows us to navigate differences and disagreements with grace, fostering a community that reflects Christ's love. Our ultimate goal is to create a space where God's presence dwells continually, leading to transformed lives and a perpetual revival.
Key Takeaways:
1. God's Presence and Design: God's presence is most profound where His design is followed. Just as Moses was instructed to build the tabernacle according to God's pattern, we are called to build our lives and church according to His divine blueprint, ensuring that His presence inhabits our gatherings. [43:07]
2. Commitment to Community: The early church thrived on a deep commitment to community, characterized by fellowship and shared life. This commitment goes beyond casual interactions, requiring us to invest in each other's lives, supporting one another through highs and lows. [59:10]
3. Unity in Diversity: Every member of the church has a unique gift that contributes to the body of Christ. No gift is greater than another, and each is essential for the church's mission. Embracing this diversity strengthens the church and enables us to reach the world effectively. [01:21:29]
4. Choosing Love Amidst Friction: When disagreements arise, choosing love is crucial. Love allows us to engage in meaningful conversations, respect differing opinions, and maintain unity within the body of Christ. This principle is vital for the church to make a significant impact in the world. [01:26:14]
5. Perpetual Revival: By aligning with God's design and fostering a community of love and unity, we create an environment for perpetual revival. This ongoing presence of God leads to transformed lives, evidenced by salvation and spiritual growth within the church. [01:28:05]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Breaking the Fast
- [01:45] - Prayer for God's Presence
- [03:00] - Invitation to Worship
- [04:15] - Africa Mission Team Prayer
- [06:30] - Offering and Legacy Center
- [08:45] - Baptisms and Gratitude
- [10:00] - Made for More Series Overview
- [12:00] - God's Design and Presence
- [14:30] - Church's Role in the New Testament
- [16:00] - Early Church's Commitment
- [18:00] - Unity and Diversity in the Body
- [20:00] - Choosing Love in Conflict
- [22:00] - Perpetual Revival and Salvation
- [24:00] - Closing Prayer and Baptism Celebration
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Exodus 40:33-34 - "So Moses finished the work. Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle."
2. Acts 2:42 - "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."
3. Ephesians 4:11-12 - "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."
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Observation Questions:
1. What specific instructions did God give Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, and what was the result once it was completed? [43:07]
2. According to Acts 2:42, what were the four key practices of the early church, and how did these contribute to their community life? [53:59]
3. In Ephesians 4:11-12, what roles are mentioned as gifts to the church, and what is their purpose? [01:06:54]
4. How does the sermon describe the progression of the church from the Gospels to the Epistles? [49:00]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the principle that "God inhabits what He designs" apply to the way we structure our church and personal lives? [43:07]
2. What does the commitment to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer reveal about the priorities of the early church? How can these priorities be reflected in today's church? [53:59]
3. How does the diversity of gifts within the church, as described in Ephesians 4, contribute to the unity and mission of the church? [01:06:54]
4. What does it mean to choose love amidst friction, and how can this principle be applied in resolving conflicts within the church community? [01:26:14]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your personal life and church involvement. Are there areas where you have prioritized personal preferences over God's design? How can you realign with His blueprint? [43:07]
2. The early church was deeply committed to community. How can you invest more in the lives of those in your church community beyond Sunday services? [59:10]
3. Consider the unique gifts God has given you. How are you currently using them to serve your church community, and are there new ways you can contribute? [01:21:29]
4. Think of a recent disagreement or conflict you experienced within the church. How did you handle it, and how might choosing love have changed the outcome? [01:26:14]
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of prayer. How can you incorporate more prayer into your daily routine, both individually and with others? [59:51]
6. Identify one person in your church or community who might feel disconnected or undervalued. What specific action can you take this week to show them love and inclusion? [01:23:59]
7. Reflect on the idea of perpetual revival. What steps can you take to foster an environment where God's presence is continually welcomed and celebrated in your church? [01:28:05]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Design Invites His Presence
God's presence is most profound where His design is followed. Just as Moses was instructed to build the tabernacle according to God's pattern, we are called to build our lives and church according to His divine blueprint, ensuring that His presence inhabits our gatherings. This principle reminds us that God inhabits what He designs, and when we align our lives with His will, we create a space for His presence to dwell. In the Old Testament, the tabernacle was a physical representation of God's dwelling place among His people, and today, our lives and communities can serve as spiritual tabernacles when we follow His design. By seeking His guidance and adhering to His instructions, we invite His presence into our daily lives and church gatherings, leading to a deeper connection with Him. [43:07]
Exodus 25:8-9 (ESV): "And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you shall make it."
Reflection: What specific area of your life can you align more closely with God's design today to invite His presence more fully?
Day 2: Commitment to Community
The early church thrived on a deep commitment to community, characterized by fellowship and shared life. This commitment goes beyond casual interactions, requiring us to invest in each other's lives, supporting one another through highs and lows. In Acts, the early believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, creating a vibrant and life-giving community. This model challenges us to prioritize relationships within our church, fostering an environment where we can grow together in faith and support one another. By investing in our community, we reflect the love of Christ and create a space where everyone feels valued and supported. [59:10]
Acts 2:42-44 (ESV): "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common."
Reflection: How can you intentionally invest in your church community this week to strengthen your relationships and support others?
Day 3: Unity in Diversity
Every member of the church has a unique gift that contributes to the body of Christ. No gift is greater than another, and each is essential for the church's mission. Embracing this diversity strengthens the church and enables us to reach the world effectively. The Apostle Paul describes the church as the body of Christ, where each member plays a vital role, and together, we fulfill God's purpose. This unity in diversity allows us to appreciate the different gifts and perspectives within our community, recognizing that each person has something valuable to offer. By celebrating our differences and working together, we can achieve more than we could individually, reflecting the fullness of Christ's body. [01:21:29]
1 Corinthians 12:14-18 (ESV): "For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, 'Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,' that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, 'Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,' that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose."
Reflection: What unique gift or perspective do you bring to your church community, and how can you use it to serve others this week?
Day 4: Choosing Love Amidst Friction
When disagreements arise, choosing love is crucial. Love allows us to engage in meaningful conversations, respect differing opinions, and maintain unity within the body of Christ. This principle is vital for the church to make a significant impact in the world. By choosing love, we can navigate conflicts with grace and understanding, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Love is the foundation of our faith, and it enables us to overcome differences and work together towards a common goal. In a world that often emphasizes division, the church is called to be a beacon of love and unity, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's love. [01:26:14]
Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
Reflection: Think of a recent disagreement or conflict. How can you choose love and seek reconciliation in that situation today?
Day 5: Perpetual Revival
By aligning with God's design and fostering a community of love and unity, we create an environment for perpetual revival. This ongoing presence of God leads to transformed lives, evidenced by salvation and spiritual growth within the church. Revival is not a one-time event but a continuous process of renewal and transformation as we seek God's presence and follow His guidance. When we prioritize love, unity, and commitment to His design, we create a space where God's Spirit can move freely, bringing about lasting change in our lives and communities. This perpetual revival is marked by a deepening of faith, an increase in love for one another, and a greater impact on the world around us. [01:28:05]
Isaiah 57:15 (ESV): "For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: 'I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.'"
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to creating an environment of perpetual revival in your church and community?
Quotes
And so, as we begin to look at this, we notice that the progression of the church begins in the Gospels. By the Gospels, we mean Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we see the church, but we see it in glimpses, however, he only mentions the church two times. In all four Gospels, the word church, the term, ekklesia in the Greek, is only mentioned twice. It's mentioned in Matthew 16 and Matthew 18. [00:49:00] (40 seconds)
And what I learned from that, what I looked at this church and the little bit of structure that they had and the whole lot of life that they had, I looked at it and I said, what can I learn from this stage of the church? Because again, I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. I don't understand. We are now in the middle of it. We aren't even fully developed yet. Okay? What can we learn? Well, we learned three things. Number one, they were committed to the Lord. [00:55:16] (30 seconds)
The second thing is the commitment we learned last week was commitment to community. Right? It says that they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine. And fellowship. Everybody say fellowship. I told you last week that that is the Greek word koinonia. Now, the interesting thing is I've heard fellowship talked about over the years. And fellowship has always been, well, it's two fellows in a ship. Y 'all know I can't stand quippy little sayings like that. Right? Because most of the time, they're great intentions, but they're half true. Right? [00:56:41] (39 seconds)
And there are teachers and there are pastors and they are there to help the church be more studious and they are there to help the church be more pastoral or compassionate towards the world around them. I think we could use a little more of that in today's society. But what he's doing is he's giving that and he's saying these are the giftings that I've given to the church to lead and guide the church to equip the body for works of ministry meaning those five guys aren't supposed to be doing it they're training the church you and I how to do it so that we are equipped when we walk out to reach a lost and dying world right? Come on! [01:09:45] (57 seconds)
Again those members of the body which we think less honorable He goes on down He really Here's the whole thing Here's the whole thing Is he's trying to help them understand That every person in the body Has a gift That helps The body Every person Connected to the church Has something That God has deposited inside of you To assist Others in that church And though they may not be Prominent That does not make them insignificant. [01:18:32] (43 seconds)
And the fact is Is if we would all lay that Pride down And go God what have you called Me to So the psalmist said it I'd rather be a Doorman in the house of the Lord Right I'd rather hold the lowest position Where I am gifted And where I am Called And then when he finishes All of that up Now he's just gone through He's talking about all of that First Corinthians 12 Every member in the body is significant Everyone He ends the chapter by saying this. [01:19:00] (44 seconds)
He said every one of you Have a gifting But if you don't have a gifting You can't operate in your gifting in love Your gift is worthless I used to know people Who had prophetic giftings At least they said they had prophetic giftings I really think that was just an excuse For them to be rude And they would make statements like I'm just real I was like no you're just a jerk. [01:20:11] (31 seconds)
And you know what You need to realize that your gifting Needs to be filtered through love For your gifting to be accepted And embraced God didn't call you To be a punk God called you to understand your gifting To understand your place In the body And to let it Function in love Okay So What did we learn from this phrase? Go ahead and call the praise team back to the front And I'm going to Go ahead and release those of you who are being baptized If you want to Go to where you're supposed to be. [01:20:40] (44 seconds)
And so I'm going to give an opportunity right now I don't know everybody in this room but I do know behind God and I always tell her I say you're the greatest gift God's ever given me I've told her that for 22 years now you're the greatest gift God's ever given me outside of salvation outside of redemption God's ever given me so if you're in this room and you don't know him today the Bible says this now is the accepted time today is the day of salvation what do I mean by that he is waiting for you you're not waiting for him his Holy Spirit is in this room and he is drawing you to him in this moment so I'm going to ask every head bowed every eye closed if you're in this room and you don't know Jesus I'm going to pray a prayer and if you pray a prayer with me and you mean it from your heart I'm telling you when we say amen you'll be just as saved as everybody else and anybody else in this room. [01:33:17] (115 seconds)
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