Embracing Grace: Becoming World Changers Through Sacrifice
Summary
In a stirring sermon, the speaker called upon the congregation to embrace their potential as world changers, emphasizing the significance of living a life aligned with God's purpose. Reflecting on the past year, the speaker celebrated the work of God within their church and community, while also preparing the congregation for the year ahead. They introduced the theme of being a world changer, challenging listeners to overcome doubts and limitations, and to avoid living a life of regret by not fulfilling God's intentions for them. The speaker shared personal experiences, including a visit to a cemetery, which served as a poignant reminder of life's fleeting nature and the urgency to live with purpose.
The sermon highlighted the transformative power of God's grace, as seen in the life of the apostle Paul, who went from persecuting Christians to becoming a pivotal figure in the early church. The speaker underscored that ordinary people, like Moses, David, and Gideon, can have an extraordinary impact when they choose to live with intention. The audience was encouraged to recognize their own potential to be world changers, regardless of their perceived insignificance.
The speaker also discussed the importance of establishing daily rhythms of seeking God and expressing gratitude, which set the foundation for a fulfilling life. They touched upon the concept of sacrifice over significance, suggesting that a life dedicated to serving others is what truly allows God to work through us to achieve greatness.
Personal stories were woven throughout the sermon, including the speaker's own transformation after encountering Jesus at a youth conference, which led to a ripple effect of change in their life and the lives of others. They shared their vision for the church's future, expressing excitement for what God could accomplish through their collective efforts, and introduced a year-end offering as a step towards that vision.
In conclusion, the speaker invited the audience to receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior, to share the message with others, and to connect with the ministry for support. They expressed gratitude for the financial contributions that enable the ministry to reach people worldwide and encouraged viewers to be part of a bigger story that God is building.
Key Takeaways:
- The concept of being a world changer is not reserved for the extraordinary; it is a call to every individual to live with purpose and intention, aligning their actions with God's greater purpose. This means going beyond personal ambitions to make a difference in the world, a challenge that requires faith and a willingness to embrace God's vision for our lives. [14:33]
- God's grace is transformative, as exemplified by the apostle Paul's life. Despite our past mistakes and perceived unworthiness, God's grace empowers us to become who we are meant to be. This grace is not just an abstract concept; it has a tangible effect on our lives, redirecting our paths and enabling us to fulfill our divine purpose. [28:15]
- The "dash" between our birth and death dates symbolizes the life we live and the choices we make. We are encouraged to consider what the Lord wants us to do with our "dash," understanding that it is a sin to know what we ought to do and not do it. Our lives are not measured by their duration but by the impact of our actions and our obedience to God's will. [11:23]
- The grace effect is more powerful than the butterfly effect, as it can bring about profound changes in our lives and the lives of others. One encounter with God's grace can set off a chain reaction, leading to a legacy of faith and transformation that extends beyond our own existence. This underscores the importance of each individual's contribution to God's greater narrative. [36:39]
- The lives of individuals like Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. demonstrate that making a significant impact does not require wealth or fame, but rather a commitment to serving others with love and purpose. Their legacies remind us that we can all do small things with great love, and in doing so, change the world. [19:49]
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- James 4:13-17 (NIV)
- 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 (NIV)
### Observation Questions
1. In James 4:13-17, what is the contrast between human plans and the perspective one should have according to these verses?
2. How does 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 describe the transformation in Paul's life and identity?
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does James 4:13-17 suggest about the nature of life and the attitude one should have towards making plans?
2. Considering 1 Corinthians 15:9-10, how does the concept of grace appear to influence a person's work and sense of self-worth?
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent decision or plan you made without considering if it was the Lord's will. How can you incorporate seeking God's guidance in your planning process for an upcoming event?
2. Identify a moment from the past week where you recognized an opportunity to do good but hesitated. What is one step you can take to prepare yourself to act on such opportunities in the coming week?
3. Think about a personal weakness or past mistake that you believe disqualifies you from being used significantly by God. What is one truth from 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 that you can remind yourself of the next time this thought arises?
4. Recall a situation where you may have boasted about your achievements or plans. What is a short prayer you can say to humble yourself and acknowledge God's sovereignty in your successes?
5. Consider the "dash" between your birth and death dates. What is one specific action you can take this month to ensure that your "dash" reflects a life lived with intention and purpose aligned with God's will?
Devotional
Day 1: Sacrifice Leads to True Significance
Embracing sacrifice over the pursuit of significance reorients one's life towards God's purpose. This shift in focus from self-promotion to serving others aligns with the teachings of Christ, who exemplified the ultimate sacrifice. By choosing this path, individuals open themselves to being used by God in ways that can have a profound and lasting impact on the world. [17:39]
Hebrews 13:16 - "And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."
Reflection: How can you practice a small act of sacrifice today that aligns with God's purpose for your life?
Day 2: Living the Dash with Purpose
The "dash" of life is a symbol of the time we have to make a difference. It's a reminder that while life's length is uncertain, its depth is up to us. By making choices that reflect God's will, we can ensure that our "dash" represents a life lived with intention and purpose, leaving a legacy that honors God. [11:23]
James 4:14 - "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
Reflection: What legacy do you hope to leave with your "dash," and what steps can you take today to move towards that legacy?
Day 3: Transformed by Grace
The transformative power of God's grace can redirect a life from a path of destruction to one of purpose and ministry. This grace not only changes our status before God but also empowers us to live out a new destiny, one that is aligned with His divine plan and filled with opportunities to serve and glorify Him. [31:10]
1 Timothy 1:14-16 - "The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life."
Reflection: Can you identify a moment when God's grace redirected your life, and how can you express gratitude for that transformation today?
Day 4: The Ripple Effect of Grace
The grace effect, like the butterfly effect, suggests that small acts of faith and obedience can have far-reaching and eternal consequences. This divine principle encourages believers to trust that their actions, when guided by God's grace, can lead to significant change, even if the immediate results are not visible. [36:39]
2 Corinthians 9:8 - "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."
Reflection: What is one small act of obedience you can commit to today that might set off a ripple effect of grace in your life and the lives of others?
Day 5: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Impact
The lives of individuals like Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. demonstrate that one does not need vast resources to make a significant impact. A heart committed to love and service, empowered by God's grace, can change the world. This truth challenges us to find ways to serve with great love, regardless of our circumstances. [19:49]
Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Reflection: Who is someone in your community that you can serve with love today, and how can you take the first step towards that service?
Quotes
"God never called us to pursue a life of significance; he called us to pursue a life of sacrifice. There's a difference. Our culture is pursuing a life of significance... and Jesus says no, I called you to build a life of sacrifice." [17:39]
"God wants to use you to change the world." [03:58]
"Your life is summed up by a dash. Let's pray. Go spend the rest of your dash like it sounds depressing, doesn't it? But it's a reality that all of us... it's the dash that matters." [08:55]
"The entire story of scripture is God taking ordinary people and doing extraordinary things through their life." [26:01]
"God, use me to change the world." What if you woke up every day with that prayer on your lips? Imagine the impact we could have if we all committed to being instruments of change in His hands. [45:26]
"I'm so grateful that you have a greater intention for our lives than just to live, work, retire, and die. That's not a story I want my life to tell. I pray that we would leverage our life and our story for Your glory." [46:02]
"We can't control the date but listen to me, you can control the dash. I can determine what I'm going to live my life for, I can determine who I'm going to live my life for, I can determine what my story is about. I get to control the dash." [11:58]
"God intentionally created you to live with intention. You're not a cosmic accident... God has a purpose, an intentional design for your life, a story He wants you to live." [14:33]
"Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love." [22:22]
"The grace effect is even more powerful than the butterfly effect. It's a principle that can transform lives in ways we can't always predict, much like a small butterfly can potentially create a storm." [36:39]
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