Embracing Our Identity in God's Kingdom

In the heart of God's creation, there is a profound longing for the sons and daughters of God to rise and embrace their God-given identity. The call of God is unmistakable and resounding; it beckons us to spread the good news to every corner of the earth, to witness the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh, and to see everything made subject to the Lordship of Christ. As the Church, we are the Bride, preparing ourselves for the glorious return of our Bridegroom. We are called to bring heaven down to earth, to manifest the Kingdom of God in our midst, ensuring that we do not falter in the divine relay race set before us.

Our faith is not deterred by unfulfilled promises or unseen outcomes. Like Moses, who did not enter the earthly Promised Land but beheld a greater heavenly reality, we too hold fast to the belief in God's goodness and His ultimate plan. The story of Cain and Abel teaches us the importance of sacrificial giving and honoring God with our best, for our actions resonate through eternity. Abel's life, though cut short, continues to speak volumes through the legacy of faith he left behind.

Our lives are a testament to our faith and the choices we make. They can serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration or as a cautionary tale. The impact of a life lived for God, like that of my mother, whose love and dedication to the Gospel and to helping those in need, has left an indelible mark that will echo through generations. Her life, and the lives of all who have gone before us, are intricately woven into the grand narrative of God's Kingdom, which we are privileged to build upon.

We are reminded that our time on earth is not a mere waiting room for heaven, but an active engagement in God's unfolding plan. We are connected to the great cloud of witnesses, those who have gone before us and those who will come after, all part of God's majestic story. Our lives, our worship, and our ministry are all part of this divine tapestry.

In moments of pain and confusion, it is essential to let our hearts speak honestly before God, for only through vulnerability can healing begin. We must also allow our Savior to speak into our lives, to guide us through our questions and doubts, and to remind us of His sovereignty and love. As we navigate through life's challenges, we must live in such a way that our lives will speak of God's grace and truth long after we are gone.

Key Takeaways

Youtube Chapters

Bible Reading

Hebrews 11:13-16 (NIV) — > "All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them."

2. Hebrews 11:39-40 (NIV)
> "These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect."

3. Proverbs 4:23 (TPT)
> "So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life."

#

Observation Questions

1. What does Hebrews 11:13-16 say about the faith of those who did not receive the promises during their lifetime?
2. According to Hebrews 11:39-40, why did God plan something better for us, and how does it connect us with those who have gone before us?
3. In Proverbs 4:23, what is the significance of guarding the affections of your heart, and how does it affect your life? [06:19]
4. How did the speaker describe the impact of her mother's life and faith on others? [36:11]

Interpretation Questions

1. How does the concept of being "foreigners and strangers on earth" (Hebrews 11:13) shape our understanding of our purpose and identity as Christians?
2. What does it mean that "only together with us would they be made perfect" (Hebrews 11:40), and how does this idea influence our view of the Church's mission across generations?
3. How can guarding the affections of our heart (Proverbs 4:23) help us navigate through pain and confusion, as discussed in the sermon? [06:19]
4. What lessons can we learn from the speaker's experience of feeling betrayed and then finding comfort in God's presence? [13:38]

Application Questions

1. Reflect on a time when you felt like a "foreigner and stranger" on earth. How did that experience affect your faith and your view of God's promises? [21:02]
2. How can you actively participate in the unfolding of God's Kingdom on earth, knowing that your actions are part of a greater story that spans generations? [29:57]
3. Think about your current offerings to God, whether they be your resources, time, or talents. How can you ensure that you are giving with a heart of worship and sacrifice, much like Abel's offering? [33:50]
4. In moments of sorrow and loss, how can you be more honest with God about your feelings? What steps can you take to allow His comfort and peace to enter your heart? [43:54]
5. How can you cultivate a life of dialogue with your Savior, allowing His words to shape your journey? What practical steps can you take to listen to His voice more intentionally? [39:24]
6. Identify one area of your life where you can let your life speak more loudly for Christ. What specific actions can you take to ensure that your legacy will transform lives and shape destinies? [34:24]
7. How can you support and encourage others in your small group to embrace their God-given identity and actively engage in God's unfolding plan? [29:57]