Embracing God's Promises: A Call to Faith and Service
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to witness the sacrament of baptism, a profound symbol of God's prevenient grace and acceptance within the Christian community. We celebrated the baptism of young Jaila Maria, praying for her and her family, especially her father, Ernest, who is still working on obtaining a visa from Africa. This moment reminds us of our duty to guide our children early in life towards a knowledge of Christ as their Savior.
We also took a moment to appreciate Tim and Jenny for their dedicated service to our youth, encouraging the congregation to show their gratitude tangibly. Despite setbacks, like Caden not being the right fit for us, we remain hopeful and continue to trust in God's plan.
The core of today's message revolved around the theme, "Is it too good to be true?" We explored the New Testament, particularly the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were blessed with a child in their old age, and Mary, who was chosen to bear Jesus. These stories illustrate that God often operates outside the realm of human possibility, reminding us that His promises are steadfast and His plans are always in motion.
We have been rescued from our enemies, primarily Satan, and are called to serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness, all the days of our lives. This freedom in Christ should be reflected in our lives, not just in our actions but also in our attitudes. We are encouraged to live in a way that does not cause others to stumble, prioritizing our witness over personal freedoms.
Finally, we are reminded that there is no redemptive work of grace after death; the decisions we make today are crucial. We are called to live in right relationships with God and others, embracing the freedom and joy that come from being rescued by Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Baptism as a Symbol of Grace: Baptism signifies God's prevenient grace and acceptance within the Christian community. It is a call for parents and the church to guide children early towards a knowledge of Christ, ensuring they grow in faith and love for God. [17:08]
2. God's Promises are Steadfast: The stories of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Mary remind us that God's promises are unwavering and often fulfilled in ways that defy human understanding. We are called to trust in His plans, even when they seem too good to be true. [37:07]
3. Rescued to Serve Without Fear: We have been rescued from the power of Satan and are called to serve God without fear. This freedom should be evident in our lives, allowing us to live in holiness and righteousness, reflecting the joy of the Lord. [50:04]
4. Living a Life of Witness: Our actions and choices should prioritize our witness to others. We are encouraged to avoid behaviors that might cause others to stumble, demonstrating our commitment to the gospel and the well-being of our community. [59:01]
5. No Grace After Death: The decisions we make in this life are final; there is no redemptive work of grace after death. We must strive to live in right relationships with God and others, embracing the freedom and responsibility that come with being rescued by Christ. [01:00:43]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:08] - Baptism of Jaila Maria
[34:25] - Appreciation for Tim and Jenny
[36:11] - Is it Too Good to Be True?
[37:07] - God's Promises and Human Doubts
[39:59] - Zechariah and Elizabeth's Miracle
[41:23] - Mary's Divine Assignment
[50:04] - Rescued to Serve Without Fear
[59:01] - Living a Life of Witness
[01:00:43] - No Grace After Death
[01:09:08] - Call to Live in Holiness and Righteousness
[01:13:01] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 1:67-75 - Zechariah's Prophecy
2. Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace
3. Romans 6:4 - Baptism and New Life
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Zechariah's prophecy in Luke 1:67-75 reveal about God's promises and their fulfillment? ([44:04])
2. How does the sacrament of baptism signify God's prevenient grace according to the sermon? ([17:08])
3. What examples from the sermon illustrate that God's promises often defy human understanding? ([41:23])
4. How does the sermon describe the freedom we have in Christ and its implications for our daily lives? ([50:04])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. In Zechariah's prophecy, what does it mean to be "rescued from our enemies" and how does this apply to our spiritual lives today? ([46:25])
2. How does the concept of prevenient grace in baptism challenge or affirm your understanding of God's grace? ([17:08])
3. The sermon mentions that God's promises are steadfast and often fulfilled in unexpected ways. How can this understanding impact our trust in God's plans? ([41:23])
4. What does it mean to serve God without fear, and how can this be practically lived out in our daily lives? ([53:28])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own baptism or the baptism of someone you know. How does this sacrament remind you of God's grace and your commitment to guide others towards Christ? ([17:08])
2. Think of a time when you doubted God's promises because they seemed too good to be true. How did you overcome that doubt, or how can you work on trusting God more fully now? ([41:23])
3. In what ways can you demonstrate the freedom you have in Christ in your daily actions and attitudes? Are there specific areas where you need to reflect more joy and holiness? ([50:04])
4. Consider your personal freedoms and how they might impact others. Are there any behaviors or habits you need to change to avoid causing others to stumble? ([59:01])
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of making decisions today because there is no redemptive work of grace after death. What decisions do you need to make now to ensure you are living in right relationships with God and others? ([01:00:43])
6. How can you support and show gratitude to those who serve in your church community, like Tim and Jenny, as mentioned in the sermon? ([34:25])
7. Identify one person in your life who might be struggling with fear or doubt. How can you encourage them to trust in God's promises and live in the freedom Christ offers? ([53:28])
Devotional
Day 1: Baptism as a Symbol of Grace
Baptism is a profound symbol of God's prevenient grace and acceptance within the Christian community. It signifies the beginning of a spiritual journey, where parents and the church community commit to guiding the baptized individual towards a deeper knowledge of Christ. This sacrament is not just a ritual but a call to nurture faith from an early age, ensuring that children grow in their love and understanding of God. The baptism of young Jaila Maria serves as a reminder of this sacred responsibility, and we pray for her and her family, especially her father, Ernest, who is working on obtaining a visa from Africa. This moment underscores the importance of community support in the spiritual development of our children.
As we reflect on the significance of baptism, let us also appreciate those who dedicate their time and effort to nurturing the faith of our youth, like Tim and Jenny. Their service is invaluable, and it is essential for the congregation to show their gratitude tangibly. Despite setbacks, such as Caden not being the right fit for us, we remain hopeful and trust in God's plan for our community. [17:08]
Ephesians 4:4-6 (ESV): "There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection: How can you actively support the spiritual growth of the children in your community, ensuring they are guided towards a deeper knowledge of Christ?
Day 2: God's Promises are Steadfast
The stories of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Mary remind us that God's promises are unwavering and often fulfilled in ways that defy human understanding. Zechariah and Elizabeth were blessed with a child in their old age, and Mary was chosen to bear Jesus, illustrating that God operates outside the realm of human possibility. These narratives encourage us to trust in God's plans, even when they seem too good to be true. God's promises are steadfast, and His plans are always in motion, even when we cannot see them.
In our lives, we may face situations that seem impossible or beyond our control. During these times, it is crucial to remember that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Trusting in His promises requires faith and patience, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His word. Let us hold on to the hope that God is working all things together for our good, even when we cannot comprehend His methods. [37:07]
Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Reflection: Think of a situation in your life that seems impossible. How can you trust in God's promises and remain hopeful, even when the outcome is uncertain?
Day 3: Rescued to Serve Without Fear
We have been rescued from the power of Satan and are called to serve God without fear. This freedom in Christ should be evident in our lives, allowing us to live in holiness and righteousness. Being rescued by Christ means that we are no longer bound by fear, but are free to serve God with joy and confidence. This freedom should be reflected not only in our actions but also in our attitudes, as we live out our faith in a way that honors God.
Living in holiness and righteousness involves making choices that align with God's will and reflect His character. It means prioritizing our relationship with God and seeking to serve Him in all that we do. As we embrace this freedom, let us remember that we are called to be a light to the world, demonstrating the joy and peace that come from knowing Christ. [50:04]
Galatians 5:1 (ESV): "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to embrace the freedom Christ has given you, and how can you serve God without fear?
Day 4: Living a Life of Witness
Our actions and choices should prioritize our witness to others. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that does not cause others to stumble. This means being mindful of our behavior and the impact it has on those around us. Our commitment to the gospel should be evident in how we live, demonstrating love, grace, and integrity in all that we do. By prioritizing our witness, we show our dedication to the well-being of our community and our desire to reflect Christ's love to others.
Living a life of witness involves making intentional choices that honor God and uplift others. It means being a positive influence and an example of Christ's love in our daily interactions. Let us strive to live in a way that draws others closer to God, being mindful of our words and actions, and seeking to build up rather than tear down. [59:01]
1 Peter 2:12 (ESV): "Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."
Reflection: How can you be more intentional in your daily actions to ensure that your life is a positive witness to those around you?
Day 5: No Grace After Death
The decisions we make in this life are final; there is no redemptive work of grace after death. This truth underscores the importance of living in right relationships with God and others. We are called to embrace the freedom and responsibility that come with being rescued by Christ, making choices that reflect our commitment to Him. Our time on earth is an opportunity to live out our faith and share the message of salvation with others.
Understanding that there is no grace after death should motivate us to live with urgency and intentionality. It is a call to prioritize our spiritual growth and our relationships, seeking to honor God in all that we do. Let us strive to live in a way that reflects the love and grace of Christ, making the most of the time we have been given. [01:00:43]
Hebrews 9:27-28 (ESV): "And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to ensure that you are living in right relationships with God and others, making the most of the time you have been given?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God looked at us. He saw us before the beginning of time. He looked at us. And he said, I'm going to put my kingdom in their hands. I'm going to put the message of a risen Christ. I'm going to put my kingdom in their hands. And so he's given it to us. This great message of righteousness and holiness. And what a privilege it is to take this up. The way I like to look at it. And I've just been saying it for a lot of years now. That God is always up to something. And God always has a plan. And God seldom works alone." [37:07] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God regularly operates. Outside the realm of human possibility. Would you just make a note of that? God works with us. But he's not totally dependent upon us. To get things done. If we turn him down. He'll go to somebody else. So when God comes to you. And offers you an assignment. That's a real honor. That's a real honor. That he would entrust something of the kingdom to you. Don't accept that as some kind of awful assignment. That's a great gift." [41:55] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We have been rescued. From our enemies. You remember a few weeks ago. When Hamas stormed a gathering of primarily young people. Some older people but younger people. And took captive a hundred plus people from many nations. Some from the United States. Hid them in tunnels under the streets of Gaza. And I don't know. I remember the one picture of the single girl. As they were taking her away on a scooter. And she was crying out for help. You could see her crying out. And they were holding her on that scooter. And they took her off and took her into a cave." [48:39] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have been rescued. And we should be. We should be serving God without fear. This is what the Bible says. This is what I'm saying. This is what the Bible says. And next he says, we can serve God without fear in holiness and righteousness when we get to heaven. No? That's not what it says, is it? We can serve God in righteousness and holiness. How long? For as long as we live. As long as we live. As long as we're alive." [55:16] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have been rescued. have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear in holiness and righteousness all the days of our lives. Isn't that good news? Yes. Is it too good to be true? Seems like it, doesn't it? In fact, there are a lot of churches where they've said it's too good to be true. We got to, we got to get this bar down where it's easier for people to get in. Can't lower the bar. God calls us to a holy life." [01:02:38] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The promises of God are as valid today as they've ever been or will ever be. What we lack is the faith. To take the steps that the people of Scripture and people in other times were willing to take. The great risk to step into a flooding river. And you don't know how deep the water is. And you've got a crowd behind you kind of pushing you. Those priests in Joshua's time, they were called to step into the water. And I think the people were crowding them. Maybe it was the people that pushed them into it. And they found out that the water's parted." [45:45] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We have been rescued. Just by the coming. We have been rescued through the promises of God. And then he said, we've been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear. And fear is the big thing that stops us, isn't it? Well, I don't know what they'd think. I don't know. Maybe I shouldn't say anything. I don't want to offend anybody. We just live under a cloud of fear all the time. I don't want to be abrasive. I don't want to be obnoxious. I don't either. It's just one of my spiritual gifts." [53:28] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We don't have to go back into sin. We don't have to be under the control of the elements that controlled our lives. That doesn't mean it's automatic. We're not on some automatic control. And we just breeze on. But we can make right choices. We don't have to yield to temptation. We don't have to let our anger get the best of us. We don't have to do the things that we once did. We have been rescued. That's what the Bible says. And that young woman when she was rescued and reunited with her family. That was a wonderful picture of redemption. We're free. We're free." [52:13] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We can serve God without fear in holiness and righteousness. All the days of our lives. Amen. Stand with me, would you please? Barb's going to play something. I always like to give people a chance to respond. And you know, a response could be, oh, maybe you've just patched up something with somebody. And you're so thrilled about that, you'd just like to come and bring an offering of thanksgiving. We don't often think about coming to the altar with a, a gift of thanksgiving. Thank you, Father, for what you did. Thank you. I want to, I just want to take a moment." [01:09:08] (463 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have been rescued. You don't have to care that any longer. You don't have to carry that hurt, that anger, that frustration. You don't have to carry it. You can leave it here this morning. Just put it here. Leave it here. Anyone else? think the Holy Spirit is speaking. Well, Father, we thank you for the privilege of being here. I thank you for these people. I love these people. Every one of them. I thank you for them. They're my friends. I hope they consider me their friend." [01:11:00] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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