Embracing Our Divine Calling: Unity, Faith, and Purpose

In 2018, we stand on the brink of a year filled with divine potential and purpose. As we gather in Times Square, a place bustling with hope and disillusionment, we are reminded of our unique calling as a church. Just as Paul wrote to the Corinthians, we are called to be a beacon of God's grace and power in a world that often doubts the possibility of such a presence. Our church, established against all odds, is a testament to God's faithfulness and the power of unity in Christ. We have been enriched with spiritual gifts and knowledge, not for our own glory, but to shine God's light further into the darkness.

This year, we have been given a significant opportunity to lead a movement of prayer and revival across North America. The Pentecostal Charismatic Churches of North America have chosen us as a model for what a prayer-centered church should look like. This is a monumental responsibility and a divine door that God has opened for us. As people from across the nation and the world look to us, we must ensure that our lives reflect the love, unity, and power of Christ.

Paul's letter to the Corinthians serves as a guide for us. He pleads for unity, faith, purity, forgiveness, and selflessness. These are not just ideals but essential elements of our Christian walk. Unity is non-negotiable; it is the foundation upon which God's blessing rests. Our faith must be rooted in the power of God, not in human wisdom. Purity is crucial, as sin weakens our testimony and purpose. Forgiveness is a reflection of Christ's love, and selflessness is the heart of true ministry.

As we embrace these principles, we prepare ourselves to flourish in God's way. We are called to be a people who live for the benefit of others, who forgive, and who walk in purity and unity. This is our moment to seize the divine opportunity before us, to be a church that truly reflects the glory of God. Let us commit to this calling, trusting in God's power to sustain and guide us.

Key Takeaways

• 1. Unity in Diversity: Unity is essential for the church to thrive. Despite differences in opinion, political views, or doctrinal preferences, we must come together as one body in Christ. Unity is the channel through which God's anointing and blessing flow, and it is non-negotiable for fulfilling our divine purpose. [13:39]
• 2. Faith Beyond Reason: Our faith should not rest in human wisdom but in the power of God. Like the Israelites who doubted God's promise, we must avoid relying solely on our reasoning. Instead, we should trust in God's ability to accomplish what seems impossible, allowing His power to work through us. [16:55]
• 3. Pursuing Purity: Purity is vital for maintaining the strength and integrity of our testimony. Sin, particularly sexual immorality, weakens our purpose and hinders our spiritual growth. We must strive to live according to God's standards, understanding that the wages of sin is death. [20:12]
• 4. The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a hallmark of the Christian life. Holding grudges or seeking secular validation for grievances only leads to spiritual failure. Instead, we should accept wrongs, pray for those who hurt us, and let go of bitterness, reflecting Christ's love and grace. [22:33]
• 5. Embracing Selflessness: Selflessness is at the core of Christ's example and should be at the heart of our relationships, especially in marriage. By focusing on how we can serve and uplift others, we align ourselves with God's purpose and experience the fullness of His blessings. [24:01]
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Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:09] - Introduction: The Year to Flourish
• [01:16] - The Call to Be a Testimony
• [02:44] - Grace and Peace in Christ
• [04:29] - Enriched by God's Word
• [06:07] - Longing for Christ's Return
• [07:18] - Facing Opposition
• [08:32] - A Model for Prayer
• [10:22] - The Power of Prayer
• [11:49] - Plea for Unity
• [15:00] - Plea for Faith
• [18:12] - Plea for Purity
• [21:36] - Plea for Forgiveness
• [22:54] - Plea for Selflessness
• [35:01] - Learning from Past Mistakes
• [38:29] - Embracing Our Calling

1. 1 Corinthians 1:3-10
2. 1 Corinthians 16:9
3. Psalm 133

1. What does Paul express gratitude for in 1 Corinthians 1:3-10, and how does this relate to the church's establishment in Times Square? [02:44]
2. How does the sermon describe the role of the church in Times Square, and what challenges does it face? [01:59]
3. What is the significance of the church being chosen as a model for prayer by the Pentecostal Charismatic Churches of North America? [08:14]
4. According to the sermon, what are the key elements that Paul pleads for in his letter to the Corinthians? [11:49]

1. In 1 Corinthians 1:3-10, Paul emphasizes unity. How does the sermon suggest that unity can be maintained in a diverse church setting? [12:22]
2. The sermon mentions a "great and effective door" being opened. What does this metaphor mean in the context of the church's mission, and how can it be applied to individual believers? [07:18]
3. How does the sermon interpret the concept of "faith beyond reason," and what implications does this have for the church's approach to challenges? [16:55]
4. The sermon discusses the importance of purity. How does this align with Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians, and what are the consequences of neglecting purity? [20:12]

1. Unity is described as non-negotiable for the church. Reflect on a time when you experienced disunity in a group setting. How did it affect the group's purpose, and what steps can you take to promote unity in your church community? [13:39]
2. The sermon emphasizes faith in God's power rather than human wisdom. Identify a situation in your life where you relied on your reasoning instead of trusting God. How can you shift your perspective to embrace faith beyond reason? [16:55]
3. Purity is highlighted as essential for maintaining a strong testimony. Are there areas in your life where you struggle with purity? What practical steps can you take to align your life with God's standards? [20:12]
4. Forgiveness is a hallmark of the Christian life. Think of someone you need to forgive. What is holding you back, and how can you take a step towards forgiveness this week? [22:33]
5. Selflessness is at the core of Christ's example. Reflect on your relationships, especially in marriage or close friendships. How can you practice selflessness in these relationships, and what impact might it have? [24:01]
6. The sermon calls for a commitment to prayer and revival. How can you personally contribute to a culture of prayer in your church or community? What specific actions can you take this week to encourage others to join in prayer? [09:52]
7. The sermon challenges us to live for the benefit of others. Identify one person in your life who could use support or encouragement. What specific action can you take to serve them this week? [28:59]