Embracing New Leadership: A Faithful Transition

 

Summary

In this sacred moment, we gather to celebrate the commissioning of Andy Wood as the new senior pastor of Saddleback Church. This transition marks a significant chapter in the life of our church, as we honor the legacy of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren, who have faithfully served for 43 years. We recognize the divine orchestration in bringing Andy and his wife, Stacey, to lead us into the future. God has equipped Andy with the spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality, and experiences necessary for this holy calling. As a church family, we commit to supporting Andy and Stacey, praying for their strength, wisdom, and love as they embark on this journey.

Andy shares his personal covenant with us, expressing gratitude for the legacy he inherits and the opportunity to build upon it. He acknowledges the faithfulness of God in weaving together the stories of Saddleback Church and his own life. Andy's commitments include passionately following Jesus, loving and serving the congregation, pursuing God's vision for the church, and modeling the mission he asks us to live. He emphasizes the importance of integrity, humility, and generosity, and pledges to remain teachable and accountable.

As we move forward, we are reminded of the unchanging foundations of our faith: preaching the good news of Jesus, teaching and obeying the Bible, and being a purpose-driven church focused on life transformation. We will continue to be a place of hope and healing, known for our love and commitment to reaching the next generation. Our church will remain multi-generational and multi-ethnic, reflecting the diversity of God's kingdom.

In this transition, we are called to embrace change with faith, hope, and love, trusting in God's faithfulness through generations. We are encouraged to continue practicing love, inviting others, praying, serving, tithing, improving, connecting, and persevering. As we take communion together, we are united by the life of Jesus, who sacrificed Himself for us, and we commit to making Him the hero of our story as we step into the future with bold faith.

Key Takeaways:

1. Divine Calling and Equipping: God has uniquely equipped Andy Wood with the spiritual gifts and experiences necessary for his role as senior pastor. This divine calling is a reminder that God prepares and empowers us for the tasks He sets before us, and we are to trust in His provision and guidance. [23:13]

2. Gratitude and Legacy: Andy expresses deep gratitude for the legacy of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren, acknowledging the faithfulness of God in their ministry. This gratitude extends to the congregation, recognizing the sacrifices and prayers that have built the church. It is a call to honor the past while embracing the future with hope. [30:07]

3. Commitment to Vision and Integrity: Andy commits to passionately following Jesus, loving and serving the congregation, and pursuing God's vision for Saddleback Church. His emphasis on integrity, humility, and generosity serves as a model for us to live out our faith authentically and with purpose. [39:08]

4. Unchanging Foundations: As we move into the future, the core foundations of our faith remain unchanged. We will continue to preach the good news of Jesus, teach and obey the Bible, and focus on life transformation. These pillars provide stability and direction as we navigate change. [46:01]

5. Unity in Diversity: Saddleback Church will continue to be a multi-generational and multi-ethnic community, reflecting the diversity of God's kingdom. This unity in diversity is a testament to the power of the gospel to bring people together across differences, and it challenges us to embrace and celebrate our unique contributions to the body of Christ. [51:57]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [22:56] - Equipping and Empowering Andy Wood
- [23:44] - Prayer for Wisdom and Strength
- [24:30] - Commissioning of Andy Wood
- [25:19] - Prayer for Stacey Wood
- [28:55] - Reflecting on God's Faithfulness
- [30:07] - Gratitude for Legacy
- [32:37] - Personal Commitments
- [35:12] - God's Purpose and Timing
- [37:41] - Ten Personal Commitments
- [44:28] - Seeking the Holy Spirit's Power
- [46:01] - Unchanging Foundations
- [51:57] - Unity in Diversity
- [54:28] - Making Jesus the Hero
- [56:01] - Closing Prayer and Communion

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Luke 1:1-4
2. Psalm 119:90
3. Philippians 2:5-11

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Observation Questions:

1. What spiritual gifts and qualities were highlighted as essential for Andy Wood's new role as senior pastor? ([22:56])

2. How does Andy Wood express his gratitude for the legacy of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren? ([30:07])

3. What are the unchanging foundations of faith that Saddleback Church will continue to uphold? ([46:01])

4. How does the sermon describe the diversity and unity of Saddleback Church? ([51:57])

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Interpretation Questions:

1. In what ways does Andy Wood's personal covenant reflect the teachings of Philippians 2:5-11 about humility and servanthood? ([37:41])

2. How does the story of Luke, as mentioned in the sermon, illustrate the importance of joining God's work even if one feels late to the party? ([36:07])

3. What does Psalm 119:90 suggest about God's faithfulness through generations, and how is this relevant to the transition at Saddleback Church? ([45:18])

4. How does the sermon emphasize the role of integrity, humility, and generosity in leadership, and why are these qualities important for a church community? ([41:10])

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Application Questions:

1. Andy Wood commits to passionately following Jesus. How can you deepen your personal relationship with Jesus in the coming weeks? ([38:11])

2. Reflect on a legacy or tradition in your life that you are grateful for. How can you honor it while embracing new opportunities? ([30:07])

3. Andy emphasizes the importance of being teachable and accountable. Who in your life can you seek for accountability and wisdom, and how can you approach them this week? ([41:24])

4. The sermon calls for embracing change with faith, hope, and love. What changes are you currently facing, and how can you approach them with these virtues? ([45:07])

5. Saddleback Church aims to be a place of hope and healing. How can you contribute to creating an environment of love and support in your community? ([50:29])

6. Consider the diversity within your own community. What steps can you take to celebrate and embrace this diversity in your interactions and relationships? ([51:57])

7. As the church focuses on reaching the next generation, identify one young person in your life you can mentor or support. What specific action can you take to encourage their faith journey? ([53:02])

Devotional

Day 1: Divine Equipping for a Purpose
God has uniquely equipped individuals with spiritual gifts and experiences for the roles He calls them to fulfill. This divine equipping is a reminder that God prepares and empowers us for the tasks He sets before us, and we are to trust in His provision and guidance. As we reflect on the transition of leadership at Saddleback Church, we see how God has orchestrated the journey of Andy Wood, equipping him with the necessary gifts and experiences to lead the congregation. This serves as a powerful reminder that God is actively involved in our lives, preparing us for the purposes He has planned. We are encouraged to trust in His timing and provision, knowing that He equips us for every good work He calls us to. [23:13]

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)

Reflection: What spiritual gifts and experiences has God given you, and how can you use them to serve others in your community today?


Day 2: Honoring the Legacy of Faithfulness
Gratitude for the legacy of those who have faithfully served before us is essential as we embrace the future with hope. The transition at Saddleback Church highlights the importance of recognizing the sacrifices and prayers that have built the church. This gratitude extends to acknowledging the faithfulness of God in the ministry of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren. As we honor the past, we are called to build upon it with hope and anticipation for what God will do in the future. This involves a commitment to continue the work of those who have gone before us, while also being open to new directions and opportunities that God may present. [30:07]

"Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7, ESV)

Reflection: Who in your life has left a legacy of faithfulness? How can you honor their legacy by continuing their work or values in your own life?


Day 3: Commitment to Integrity and Vision
A commitment to integrity, humility, and generosity is essential for living out our faith authentically and with purpose. As Andy Wood steps into his role at Saddleback Church, he emphasizes the importance of passionately following Jesus, loving and serving the congregation, and pursuing God's vision for the church. This commitment serves as a model for us to live out our faith with integrity and purpose. It challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we can align our actions with the values of humility and generosity, ensuring that our faith is not just a set of beliefs but a way of life that impacts those around us. [39:08]

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." (Proverbs 10:9, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to strengthen your commitment to integrity and humility? What steps can you take today to align your actions with these values?


Day 4: Unchanging Foundations of Faith
The core foundations of our faith remain unchanged, providing stability and direction as we navigate change. As Saddleback Church moves into the future, the commitment to preaching the good news of Jesus, teaching and obeying the Bible, and focusing on life transformation remains steadfast. These pillars serve as a guide, ensuring that the church remains rooted in its mission and purpose. In our own lives, we are reminded of the importance of holding onto these unchanging foundations, allowing them to guide us through times of transition and uncertainty. By staying grounded in these truths, we can confidently face the future, knowing that our faith is built on a solid foundation. [46:01]

"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (1 Corinthians 15:58, ESV)

Reflection: How can you ensure that the core foundations of your faith remain central in your life, especially during times of change or uncertainty?


Day 5: Embracing Unity in Diversity
Unity in diversity is a testament to the power of the gospel to bring people together across differences. Saddleback Church's commitment to being a multi-generational and multi-ethnic community reflects the diversity of God's kingdom. This unity challenges us to embrace and celebrate our unique contributions to the body of Christ, recognizing that each person brings valuable perspectives and gifts. As we strive for unity, we are reminded of the importance of love and acceptance, allowing the gospel to break down barriers and create a community that reflects the heart of God. This unity in diversity is not only a reflection of God's kingdom but also a powerful witness to the world of the transformative power of the gospel. [51:57]

"For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." (1 Corinthians 12:12, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively contribute to fostering unity in diversity within your community or church? What steps can you take to embrace and celebrate the unique contributions of others?

Quotes

In this sacred moment, we gather to celebrate the commissioning of Andy Wood as the new senior pastor of Saddleback Church. This transition marks a significant chapter in the life of our church, as we honor the legacy of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren, who have faithfully served for 43 years. [00:28:55]

God has uniquely equipped Andy Wood with the spiritual gifts and experiences necessary for his role as senior pastor. This divine calling is a reminder that God prepares and empowers us for the tasks He sets before us, and we are to trust in His provision and guidance. [00:23:13]

Andy expresses deep gratitude for the legacy of Pastor Rick and Kay Warren, acknowledging the faithfulness of God in their ministry. This gratitude extends to the congregation, recognizing the sacrifices and prayers that have built the church. It is a call to honor the past while embracing the future with hope. [00:30:07]

Andy commits to passionately following Jesus, loving and serving the congregation, and pursuing God's vision for Saddleback Church. His emphasis on integrity, humility, and generosity serves as a model for us to live out our faith authentically and with purpose. [00:39:08]

As we move into the future, the core foundations of our faith remain unchanged. We will continue to preach the good news of Jesus, teach and obey the Bible, and focus on life transformation. These pillars provide stability and direction as we navigate change. [00:46:01]

Saddleback Church will continue to be a multi-generational and multi-ethnic community, reflecting the diversity of God's kingdom. This unity in diversity is a testament to the power of the gospel to bring people together across differences, and it challenges us to embrace and celebrate our unique contributions to the body of Christ. [00:51:57]

We are called to embrace change with faith, hope, and love, trusting in God's faithfulness through generations. We are encouraged to continue practicing love, inviting others, praying, serving, tithing, improving, connecting, and persevering. [00:54:28]

As we take communion together, we are united by the life of Jesus, who sacrificed Himself for us, and we commit to making Him the hero of our story as we step into the future with bold faith. [00:56:01]

God is weaving together this beautiful tapestry of a story—it's Saddleback's story. And it struck me in this last service when Pastor Rick was saying 25 years ago he and Kay started praying for God to raise up the next leaders. [00:32:37]

I will lead the way with integrity, humility, and generosity. There's a unique favor from God that exists on Saddleback Church because of integrity, humility, and generosity. Pastor Rick and Kay have lived these values out for the last 43 years. [00:44:28]

We will continue to be a purpose-driven church relentlessly focused on accomplishing God's five eternal purposes found in the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. [00:49:33]

We will continue to be a place of hope and healing, giving people a second chance to overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups. I'm so grateful for Celebrate Recovery, for the ministry that God has used to touch millions of lives all over the world. [00:51:57]

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Transcript
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