Embracing God's Promises: A Journey to Fulfillment
Summary
### Summary
Hello, church family! Today, we concluded our series "Four Cups" by taking communion together. This series has been about God's promises to humanity, and today we focused on how these promises apply to us at Access Church. We explored the four promises God made to the Israelites in Exodus 6:6-7, which are still relevant to us today. These promises outline a spiritual journey that God wants every believer to undertake: salvation, deliverance, redemption, and fulfillment.
The first promise is the cup of sanctification, where God promises to save us. At Access, we facilitate this through our weekend services, aiming to help everyone know God on a profound level. The second promise is the cup of deliverance, which is about finding freedom from our past. We achieve this through Access Groups, where we build community and share our lives openly. The third promise is the cup of redemption, where God restores our hearts to their original intention. We support this through our Next Steps class, helping people discover their spiritual gifts and purpose. The fourth promise is the cup of praise, which signifies living a life of fulfillment. We encourage this through serving in Team Access, where everyone can make a difference for eternity.
We also discussed the barriers that prevent us from living a fulfilled life: letting our past paralyze us, allowing culture to define us, and trying to do it all alone. True fulfillment comes when we are part of a spiritual family and are making a difference for eternity. We are all called to make a difference, and this calling stands on a cause that is greater than ourselves—people and eternity.
Finally, we took communion as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the ultimate fulfillment that awaits us in eternity. Communion is not just a ritual; it’s a foreshadowing of the eternal communion we will have with Jesus in heaven.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Promises are Perpetual: The promises God made to the Israelites in Exodus 6:6-7 are still relevant today. These promises—salvation, deliverance, redemption, and fulfillment—outline a spiritual journey that God wants every believer to undertake. Understanding these promises helps us align our lives with God's purpose. [02:33]
2. Community is Essential for Deliverance: True freedom from our past comes when we are in community with others. James 5:16 emphasizes the importance of confessing our sins to one another for healing. Access Groups provide a safe space for vulnerability and honesty, which are crucial for spiritual growth and freedom. [08:23]
3. Discovering Your Purpose: Many people go through life without knowing their purpose. Our Next Steps class helps individuals discover their spiritual gifts and talents, enabling them to understand why they were created. This discovery is essential for living a life that makes a difference. [09:36]
4. Fulfillment Comes from Serving Others: True fulfillment is not found in chasing material things or personal achievements but in serving others and making a difference for eternity. Being part of Team Access allows individuals to contribute to something greater than themselves, impacting lives for eternity. [10:39]
5. Living a Life of Praise: The cup of praise signifies a life of fulfillment that comes from celebrating God and living out His purpose. This involves shifting our focus from ourselves to God and others, understanding that ultimate fulfillment is found in a life lived for God's glory. [20:53]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:19] - Introduction and Personal Story
3. [02:33] - God's Perpetual Promises
4. [03:42] - The Four "I Wills" of God
5. [06:02] - Misconceptions About Christianity
6. [07:14] - The Cup of Sanctification
7. [08:23] - The Cup of Deliverance
8. [09:36] - The Cup of Redemption
9. [10:39] - The Cup of Praise
10. [12:55] - Give God One Year Challenge
11. [14:10] - Fulfillment vs. Full Life
12. [15:38] - Barriers to Fulfillment
13. [18:12] - Running the Wrong Playbook
14. [20:53] - The Cup of Halal
15. [22:11] - Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
16. [24:42] - Ultimate Fulfillment
17. [25:52] - Living a Life of Purpose
18. [27:09] - Counterfeit Lives
19. [29:33] - Collective Impact
20. [30:12] - Bearing Much Fruit
21. [31:17] - Communion and Final Thoughts
22. [32:22] - Jesus and the Fourth Cup
23. [33:29] - Communion Instructions
24. [34:20] - Prayer and Invitation
25. [35:13] - Taking Communion Together
26. [37:01] - Closing Prayer and Celebration
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 6:6-7 (NIV): "Therefore, say to the Israelites: 'I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians.'"
2. James 5:16 (NIV): "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
3. John 10:10 (NIV): "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the four promises God made to the Israelites in Exodus 6:6-7, and how do they relate to the spiritual journey of a believer? [02:33]
2. According to James 5:16, what is the significance of confessing our sins to one another, and how does this practice contribute to our healing? [08:23]
3. In John 10:10, Jesus contrasts His purpose with that of the thief. What does Jesus promise to give, and how does this relate to the concept of a fulfilled life discussed in the sermon? [14:10]
4. How does the sermon describe the role of community in achieving deliverance and freedom from our past? [08:23]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How do the four promises in Exodus 6:6-7 outline a spiritual journey for believers today, and why is it important to understand these promises in the context of our faith? [02:33]
2. What are some practical ways that Access Groups can help individuals find freedom from their past, as suggested by James 5:16? [08:23]
3. How does the concept of living a life of fulfillment, as described in John 10:10, challenge the common pursuit of material success and personal achievements? [14:10]
4. The sermon mentions barriers to living a fulfilled life, such as letting our past paralyze us and allowing culture to define us. How can believers overcome these barriers to experience true fulfillment? [15:38]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the four promises in Exodus 6:6-7. Which promise do you feel you need to focus on in your spiritual journey right now, and why? [02:33]
2. In what ways can you actively participate in an Access Group or similar community to find freedom from your past? How can you create a safe space for vulnerability and honesty? [08:23]
3. Jesus promises a life of fullness in John 10:10. What steps can you take this week to shift your focus from material pursuits to serving others and living out God's purpose for your life? [14:10]
4. The sermon discusses the importance of discovering your purpose through the Next Steps class. Have you identified your spiritual gifts and talents? If not, what can you do to start this discovery process? [09:36]
5. Serving others is highlighted as a path to true fulfillment. How can you get involved in serving within your church or community to make a difference for eternity? [10:39]
6. The sermon mentions the barriers of letting our past paralyze us and allowing culture to define us. Identify one specific past experience or cultural expectation that is holding you back. How can you address and overcome this barrier? [15:38]
7. Communion is described as a foreshadowing of the eternal communion with Jesus. How does this perspective change the way you approach taking communion, and how can it deepen your relationship with Christ? [33:29]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Promises are Perpetual
God's promises to the Israelites in Exodus 6:6-7 are not just historical artifacts; they are living, breathing commitments that God extends to us today. These promises—salvation, deliverance, redemption, and fulfillment—outline a spiritual journey that God desires for every believer. Understanding these promises helps us align our lives with God's purpose and experience the fullness of His plan for us.
The first promise is the cup of sanctification, where God promises to save us. This is the foundation of our spiritual journey, and it is facilitated through communal worship and personal devotion. The second promise is the cup of deliverance, which involves finding freedom from our past. This is achieved through community and accountability. The third promise is the cup of redemption, where God restores our hearts to their original intention. Finally, the fourth promise is the cup of praise, signifying a life of fulfillment and purpose. [02:33]
Exodus 6:6-7 (ESV): "Say therefore to the people of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians."
Reflection: How can you align your life with God's promises today? What steps can you take to embrace the journey of salvation, deliverance, redemption, and fulfillment?
Day 2: Community is Essential for Deliverance
True freedom from our past comes when we are in community with others. James 5:16 emphasizes the importance of confessing our sins to one another for healing. This is not just about admitting wrongdoings but about sharing our burdens and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. Access Groups provide such a space, where vulnerability and honesty are encouraged, fostering spiritual growth and freedom.
Being part of a community helps us to break free from the chains of our past. It allows us to experience God's grace through the support and encouragement of others. In these groups, we can find the strength to overcome our struggles and move forward in our spiritual journey. [08:23]
James 5:16 (ESV): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
Reflection: Who in your life can you trust to share your struggles with? How can you take a step towards greater vulnerability and honesty in your community today?
Day 3: Discovering Your Purpose
Many people go through life without knowing their purpose. This lack of direction can lead to feelings of emptiness and dissatisfaction. Our Next Steps class helps individuals discover their spiritual gifts and talents, enabling them to understand why they were created. This discovery is essential for living a life that makes a difference and brings fulfillment.
Understanding your purpose is not just about personal satisfaction; it is about aligning your life with God's plan. When you know your purpose, you can live intentionally and make a meaningful impact on the world around you. This journey of discovery is a crucial step in the spiritual journey outlined by God's promises. [09:36]
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (ESV): "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good."
Reflection: What are your spiritual gifts and talents? How can you use them to serve others and fulfill God's purpose for your life?
Day 4: Fulfillment Comes from Serving Others
True fulfillment is not found in chasing material things or personal achievements but in serving others and making a difference for eternity. Being part of Team Access allows individuals to contribute to something greater than themselves, impacting lives for eternity. This service is not just about doing good deeds; it is about living out God's purpose and making a lasting impact.
Serving others shifts our focus from ourselves to the needs of those around us. It allows us to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. This is the essence of the cup of praise, where we live a life of fulfillment by celebrating God and serving His people. [10:39]
Matthew 20:26-28 (ESV): "It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Reflection: How can you serve others in your community today? What specific actions can you take to make a difference for eternity?
Day 5: Living a Life of Praise
The cup of praise signifies a life of fulfillment that comes from celebrating God and living out His purpose. This involves shifting our focus from ourselves to God and others, understanding that ultimate fulfillment is found in a life lived for God's glory. It is about living a life of worship, where every action and decision is made with the intention of honoring God.
Living a life of praise means embracing the joy and fulfillment that comes from being in alignment with God's will. It is about recognizing that our true purpose is to glorify God in all that we do. This shift in focus allows us to experience the fullness of life that God has promised us. [20:53]
Psalm 34:1-3 (ESV): "I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!"
Reflection: How can you shift your focus from yourself to God and others today? What specific actions can you take to live a life of praise and fulfillment?
Quotes
1. "I wonder for how many of us we feel like we've achieved some stuff. I wonder for how many we've done some stuff that matters. But the real honest to goodness truth is we just, we've gotten it wrong. We haven't gotten it right based on God's definition of right. I want to talk to all of us today to make sure that we are always doing that which God has called us to do so we can live the life God's called us to live." [02:33] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God says, I'm going to get you out of that which enslaves you. And then what I'm going to do is I'm going to now work on your heart. I'm going to get you out, but then I'm going to get that stuff, that sin, those addictions, those habits. I'm going to get those out of you. I will free you from being slaves to them." [03:42] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God wants us forgiven and healed. And the way we do this is by having friends and relationships in our life that we can confess our sins to." [08:23] (7 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God wants you to be fulfilled. And a lot of us have a wrong picture of what that means. But I want to tell you, you will never be fulfilled chasing a job, chasing a person, chasing money. All those things can be good, but they're fleeting. There is only one thing that ever promises true fulfillment." [10:39] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Living a fulfilled life doesn't mean your problems will get any less. It doesn't mean your problems will all go away, but it does mean that you're going to live your life in a way where your purpose far overshadows your challenges. It's where you live a life where everything you're doing makes everything else in comparison feel small." [14:10] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "We let our past paralyze us. We want to step out and do something for God. We want to live a life on purpose that's felt for eternity. And then the moment we're going to step out, we hear a voice in our ear, yeah, but you remember what you did. Yeah, you know you're not good enough. Yeah, you know that he left you and therefore you're unlovable. Yeah, you know that she walked out on you, so how could anybody ever trust you again?" [15:38] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Ultimate fulfillment comes when you're a part of a spiritual family and making a difference for eternity. Once and for all fulfillment. When you go to bed at night and you say, oh, I did it again. That's how you live a life on purpose comes when you're part of a spiritual family and you're making a difference for eternity." [24:42] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "I am called to make a difference. I'm called to live a life in a way that my life makes a difference and it keeps being felt for generations to come. The first thing you need to understand is I am called. Okay, I want you to get this. You are called by God to do something with your life that matters." [25:52] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "You can chase lots of good things, but they're not the right thing. That they're what I call counterfeit. What is counterfeit? It's something that has the appearance of value. But it's worth nothing. No different than a fake $100 bill. It's not worth the paper it's printed on, but it looks like it has value. I think a lot of us settle for counterfeit kind of lives and we miss all that God has for us." [27:09] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "I am called by God to make a difference by doing something that makes a difference, and here's the third point, with people who want to make a difference. Well, what does it look like for us? Well, here's Jesus' words in the book of John. He says, this is to my Father's glory, that you do something, that you bear much fruit, that your life makes a difference, showing yourselves to be my disciples." [30:12] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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