Embracing God's Peace: Our Journey of Discipleship
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the importance of slowing down and allowing ourselves to rest in God's presence. Life's busyness often overwhelms us, but God calls us to pause and receive His peace. We then transitioned into a new summer series called "Summer Mixtape," where each week, a different song will be used to illustrate spiritual lessons. This week, we focused on "500 Miles" by The Proclaimers, using it as a metaphor for our Christian journey.
We delved into the concept of calling, using the story of David from 2 Samuel to illustrate how God calls us not just to Himself but also to serve Him. This dual calling requires us to seek clarity from God about our specific roles in His kingdom. We also examined Paul's words in 2 Corinthians about boasting in weaknesses, emphasizing that our attitude is crucial in our walk with Christ. Paul’s thorn in the flesh teaches us that sometimes God allows us to endure hardships to keep us humble and reliant on His grace.
We discussed the importance of attitude, noting that it reflects our relationship with God and influences those around us. Surrounding ourselves with positive influences helps us emulate Christ more effectively. We also touched on the idea of being content in our circumstances, even when they include suffering or unhealed afflictions, and how this contentment can bring us closer to God.
Finally, we looked at the concept of discipleship, stressing that every believer is called to make disciples. This is not just the job of pastors or church leaders but of every Christian. We are called to love God and love people, and in doing so, we make a difference in the world. The journey of 500 miles symbolizes our ongoing commitment to walk with Jesus, continually growing and serving in His kingdom.
### Key Takeaways
1. Slowing Down to Receive God's Peace: In the midst of our busy lives, God calls us to pause and rest in His presence. This act of slowing down allows our spirits to receive His peace and rejuvenation, reminding us that it's okay to take a break and focus on our relationship with Him. [09:44]
2. Understanding Our Dual Calling: We are called not only to a personal relationship with Jesus but also to serve Him in specific ways. This dual calling requires us to seek clarity from God about our roles in His kingdom, which may sometimes be different from what we expect or feel naturally gifted in. [19:28]
3. The Power of Attitude in Our Christian Walk: Our attitude reflects our relationship with God and significantly impacts those around us. By maintaining a positive and Christ-like attitude, we can better emulate Jesus and influence others positively, even in the face of hardships. [24:54]
4. Contentment in Suffering: Paul's thorn in the flesh teaches us that sometimes God allows us to endure hardships to keep us humble and reliant on His grace. Being content in our circumstances, even when they include suffering, can bring us closer to God and help us grow spiritually. [28:51]
5. The Call to Make Disciples: Every believer is called to make disciples, not just pastors or church leaders. This involves loving God and loving people, sharing the transformative power of Jesus with others, and living a life worth duplicating. If we are not actively making disciples, we should question our own discipleship. [35:49]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:44] - Slowing Down to Receive God's Peace
[11:25] - Introduction to Summer Mixtape Series
[13:48] - The Concept of 500 Miles in Our Christian Journey
[14:37] - Understanding Our Dual Calling
[20:13] - The Power of Attitude in Our Christian Walk
[24:54] - Contentment in Suffering
[31:08] - Who Are We Called to Serve?
[35:49] - The Call to Make Disciples
[38:13] - Communion and Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Samuel 5:1-5 (NIV)
> "All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, 'We are your own flesh and blood. In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, "You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler."' When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years."
2. 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 (NIV)
> "I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows. And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows—was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell. I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
3. Ezekiel 2:1-5 (NIV)
> "He said to me, 'Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.' As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me. He said: 'Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their ancestors have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, "This is what the Sovereign Lord says." And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious people—they will know that a prophet has been among them.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of David being anointed as king over Israel in 2 Samuel 5:1-5?
2. In 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, what does Paul say about his "thorn in the flesh" and how does he respond to it?
3. According to Ezekiel 2:1-5, what was Ezekiel's mission and how were the people described to whom he was sent?
4. In the sermon, what was the metaphorical significance of the song "500 Miles" by The Proclaimers in relation to our Christian journey? [13:48]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does David's anointing in 2 Samuel 5:1-5 illustrate the concept of dual calling—being called to God and to serve God? [14:37]
2. What does Paul's attitude towards his weaknesses in 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 teach us about the importance of humility and reliance on God's grace? [21:59]
3. How can Ezekiel's mission to a rebellious nation in Ezekiel 2:1-5 be related to our call to make disciples in challenging environments? [31:08]
4. In the sermon, how does the pastor suggest we should approach our own calling and service to God, even if it differs from our natural talents or desires? [19:28]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current pace of life. Are you allowing yourself time to slow down and rest in God's presence? What practical steps can you take this week to ensure you are receiving God's peace? [09:44]
2. Have you sought clarity from God about your specific role in His kingdom? What steps can you take to better understand your dual calling to both a relationship with Jesus and to serve Him? [19:28]
3. Think about your attitude in daily life. How does it reflect your relationship with God? What changes can you make to ensure your attitude is more Christ-like, especially in challenging situations? [24:54]
4. Consider a current hardship or "thorn in the flesh" you are experiencing. How can you find contentment and spiritual growth in this situation, relying on God's grace? [28:51]
5. Identify one person in your life who you can disciple. What specific actions can you take this week to share the love of God with them and help them grow in their faith? [35:49]
6. How can you surround yourself with positive influences that help you emulate Christ more effectively? What changes might you need to make in your social circles or daily habits? [24:08]
7. Reflect on the idea of walking "500 miles" in your Christian journey. What is one area of your faith walk that you feel needs more attention or effort? How can you commit to growing in that area this week? [13:48]
Devotional
Day 1: Slowing Down to Receive God's Peace
In the midst of our busy lives, God calls us to pause and rest in His presence. This act of slowing down allows our spirits to receive His peace and rejuvenation, reminding us that it's okay to take a break and focus on our relationship with Him. When we intentionally slow down, we create space for God to speak to us, to heal us, and to fill us with His peace that surpasses all understanding. This is not just a luxury but a necessity for our spiritual well-being.
Taking time to rest in God's presence can be challenging in a world that values constant activity and productivity. However, it is in these moments of stillness that we can truly connect with God and experience His peace. By setting aside time each day to be quiet before the Lord, we allow Him to refresh our souls and guide us in our daily lives. [09:44]
Isaiah 30:15 (ESV): "For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to intentionally slow down and rest in God's presence? How can you create a daily habit of quiet time with Him?
Day 2: Understanding Our Dual Calling
We are called not only to a personal relationship with Jesus but also to serve Him in specific ways. This dual calling requires us to seek clarity from God about our roles in His kingdom, which may sometimes be different from what we expect or feel naturally gifted in. Understanding this dual calling involves prayer, reflection, and sometimes stepping out of our comfort zones to follow God's leading.
God's calling on our lives is both personal and communal. He calls us to Himself, to grow in our relationship with Him, and to serve others in His name. This service can take many forms, and it is important to seek God's guidance to understand how He wants us to use our unique gifts and talents for His glory. By being open to His leading, we can find fulfillment in our roles within His kingdom. [19:28]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ."
Reflection: Have you sought God's guidance about your specific role in His kingdom? What steps can you take to better understand and fulfill your dual calling?
Day 3: The Power of Attitude in Our Christian Walk
Our attitude reflects our relationship with God and significantly impacts those around us. By maintaining a positive and Christ-like attitude, we can better emulate Jesus and influence others positively, even in the face of hardships. Our attitude can be a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ in our lives.
A Christ-like attitude involves humility, gratitude, and a willingness to serve others. It means choosing to respond with love and grace, even when circumstances are difficult. Our attitude can either draw people closer to God or push them away, so it is important to be mindful of how we carry ourselves and interact with others. [24:54]
Philippians 2:14-15 (ESV): "Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world."
Reflection: How does your current attitude reflect your relationship with God? What changes can you make to ensure your attitude is more Christ-like and positively influences those around you?
Day 4: Contentment in Suffering
Paul's thorn in the flesh teaches us that sometimes God allows us to endure hardships to keep us humble and reliant on His grace. Being content in our circumstances, even when they include suffering, can bring us closer to God and help us grow spiritually. Contentment is not about ignoring our struggles but about trusting God in the midst of them.
Suffering can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth. It teaches us to rely on God's strength rather than our own and to find peace in His presence. By embracing our weaknesses and trusting in God's grace, we can experience a deeper relationship with Him and a greater sense of contentment, regardless of our circumstances. [28:51]
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you struggling to find contentment? How can you trust God more deeply in these areas and rely on His grace?
Day 5: The Call to Make Disciples
Every believer is called to make disciples, not just pastors or church leaders. This involves loving God and loving people, sharing the transformative power of Jesus with others, and living a life worth duplicating. If we are not actively making disciples, we should question our own discipleship.
Making disciples is about more than just sharing the gospel; it is about investing in the lives of others and helping them grow in their faith. This requires intentionality, patience, and a genuine love for people. By living out our faith authentically and encouraging others to do the same, we can fulfill the Great Commission and make a lasting impact for God's kingdom. [35:49]
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Reflection: Who in your life can you invest in and help grow in their faith? What practical steps can you take today to begin making disciples?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "It's okay to slow down. It's okay to rest. It's okay to let your spirit receive." [09:44] (11 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "How far is far enough? How far do you go with people? How far do you walk with them? How much do you give at work? How much do you give to your family? How much do you serve at church? What is the appropriate 500 miles for a Christian?" [13:48] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Your salvation story is about you and Jesus. If you have made a decision to follow Jesus at some point in your life, that moment was that defining line. That was the moment that that salvation story began for you. That was a big deal. God called and answered." [17:04] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Attitude is everything. So if we want to figure how do we walk out our Christian life, attitude is really everything, according to the Apostle Paul." [22:44] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If you surround yourself with something, you're going to start becoming like that. This goes for positivity and negativity. You're going to absorb it. And then you're going to help others absorb it because you're emulating it. Attitude is everything. And unfortunately, in life, it often shows what our focus is. It often shows where we sit with Jesus." [24:08] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "There is a precedent in Scripture, a firm precedent of calling. We have talked about this and discussed many times the narratives of calling. We think of the Old Testament with Jonah. Jonah was called and asked to go do a thing and he rebelled and went the opposite direction. We think of the disciples. The disciples were individually called into their position." [16:27] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I was called to serve God, to work on my relationship with Him, work on my character. We're always working on either character or calling, right? I got that chance to work on that my whole life, make the mistakes. But that moment when God said, it's time to help people who aren't you, that was a big difference. And something shifted and something changed." [18:49] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If you are a disciple, you are to make disciples by loving people. It's really that simple. And the same goes in reverse. If you're not making disciples in your life, question if you should call yourself a disciple. I know that sounds harsh, but if your life has truly been transformed by Jesus Christ, you're going to do something good. You're going to tell people what happened. You're going to tell people what changed. You're going to show people that there is a better way." [35:14] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We talk here at CT a lot about how we are to love God and love people. Maybe we love God by checking our attitudes and making sure we don't become scorpions. Actively becoming more like Christ. Then we love people. We love the rebellious, the obstinate, the stubborn. We love our neighbors." [32:54] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Let's put it a different way. We are called. We focus on Jesus. That available to make a difference. And that we live a life worth duplicating. Let's read ourselves into this for a moment. So with these 125 miles, how far are you willing to go in your relationship with Jesus? It's easier than you think. I encourage you this week to refine your calling, to check your attitude, to make friends, and then just to love them. That's the gospel. That's the simplicity of the gospel. Love God and love people." [36:47] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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