Embracing Our Influence: Faith, Endurance, and Community
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound concept of influence, both in our lives and in the lives of others. We began by acknowledging the mixed emotions that often accompany election outcomes, reminding ourselves that our mission transcends political landscapes. We are called to be a community united by our faith in Jesus, striving to make disciples and be disciples ourselves. This mission is the foundation of our new worship series, "Influencers," where we delve into how we are influenced and how we, in turn, influence others.
We reflected on the metaphor of faith as a race, emphasizing the importance of endurance and the need to shed the burdens of sin that weigh us down. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, we find the strength to persevere. Jesus, the ultimate influencer, demonstrated how to trust God and endure hardships, knowing that joy awaits.
In today's world, social media influencers wield significant power, but we are reminded that influence is not limited to celebrities. Each of us has the capacity to influence those around us, whether through our actions, words, or the love we share. We are encouraged to be intentional about who influences us and to seek inspiration from those who align with our values and faith.
We also considered the influence of historical figures, family members, and saints, both famous and personal, who have shaped our faith journey. Jesus, as the greatest influencer, taught us to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, enhancing life and bringing light into darkness. We are called to be the best version of ourselves, to be seen, and to make disciples.
As we move forward, we are challenged to reflect on our own influence. How do we use it to spread love, kindness, and the message of Jesus? Our influence extends through our giving, our actions, and our presence in the world. Let us be mindful of the impact we have and strive to be ambassadors of Christ, bringing hope and transformation to those around us.
Key Takeaways:
- Endurance in Faith: Faith is likened to a race that requires endurance. We are encouraged to shed the burdens of sin and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who exemplified trust in God and perseverance through hardships. This endurance is essential for spiritual growth and reaching the joy that lies ahead. [16:56]
- Intentional Influence: In a world filled with influencers, we must be intentional about who we allow to influence us. By choosing to be influenced by Jesus and those who align with our values, we can ensure that our lives reflect the love and teachings of Christ. [36:30]
- The Power of Personal Influence: Each of us has the power to influence others, whether through our actions, words, or the love we share. We are called to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, enhancing life and bringing light into darkness. [35:41]
- Historical and Personal Influences: We are shaped by historical figures, family members, and saints who have inspired us with their faith and tenacity. Reflecting on these influences can strengthen our own faith journey and encourage us to be positive influences in the lives of others. [32:03]
- Using Influence for Good: Our influence extends through our giving, actions, and presence in the world. We are challenged to use our influence to spread love, kindness, and the message of Jesus, becoming ambassadors of Christ and bringing hope and transformation to those around us. [39:23]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [11:38] - Introduction to Worship Series
- [14:34] - Influencers of Hope and Compassion
- [16:09] - Children's Message: Running the Race
- [18:49] - Running to Jesus
- [19:45] - Ambassadors of Influence
- [22:37] - Social Media Influencers
- [24:35] - The Power of Influence
- [28:54] - Personal Influences
- [30:56] - Comedy and Faith
- [32:03] - Saints and Scripture
- [33:12] - Jesus, the Ultimate Influencer
- [34:56] - Recognizing Truth
- [35:41] - The Call to Influence
- [36:30] - Intentional Influence
- [39:23] - Influence Through Giving
- [40:23] - Church's Social Media Influence
- [41:35] - Mission and Influence
- [45:24] - Prayer and Reflection
- [46:19] - Community Prayers
- [51:55] - Offering and Thanksgiving
- [53:29] - Announcements and Closing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Influencers"
Bible Reading:
1. Hebrews 12:1-2 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
2. Matthew 5:13-16 - "You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
3. 2 Timothy 1:5 - "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also."
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Observation Questions:
1. What metaphor is used in Hebrews 12:1-2 to describe faith, and what are believers encouraged to do in this race? [16:09]
2. According to Matthew 5:13-16, what roles are believers called to fulfill in the world, and how should they let their light shine?
3. In the sermon, how is the concept of influence related to both social media influencers and personal relationships? [24:35]
4. What examples of historical or personal influences were mentioned in the sermon, and how do they impact our faith journey? [32:03]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the metaphor of running a race in Hebrews 12:1-2 help us understand the challenges and goals of living a life of faith? [16:09]
2. In what ways can being the "salt of the earth" and "light of the world" influence the people around us, according to Matthew 5:13-16?
3. How does the sermon suggest we should be intentional about who influences us, and why is this important for our spiritual growth? [36:30]
4. Reflecting on 2 Timothy 1:5, how can the faith of family members or mentors shape our own spiritual journey and influence others?
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Application Questions:
1. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to "throw off everything that hinders." What specific burdens or sins do you feel are weighing you down, and how can you begin to shed them this week? [16:56]
2. Consider the people who influence you the most. Are they helping you grow closer to Jesus, or are they leading you away from Him? How can you be more intentional about choosing your influencers? [36:30]
3. Jesus calls us to be the "light of the world." What is one practical way you can let your light shine in your community or workplace this week? [35:41]
4. Think about a historical figure or a family member who has influenced your faith. How can you honor their legacy by influencing others in a positive way? [32:03]
5. The sermon mentioned the power of influence through giving. Is there a cause or organization you feel called to support? How can your giving reflect the love and teachings of Jesus? [39:23]
6. Reflect on your social media presence. How can you use it as a platform to spread kindness, love, and the message of Jesus? [40:23]
7. Identify one person in your life who might be open to learning about faith. What steps can you take to engage them in a meaningful conversation about Jesus this week? [41:35]
Devotional
Day 1: Endurance in the Race of Faith
Faith is a journey that requires perseverance and the shedding of burdens that hinder spiritual growth. In this journey, believers are encouraged to fix their eyes on Jesus, who exemplified unwavering trust in God and endured hardships with the assurance of joy ahead. This endurance is not just about surviving but thriving in faith, growing stronger with each step. By focusing on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith, individuals find the strength to overcome challenges and continue moving forward. The metaphor of faith as a race reminds believers that the path is not always easy, but the reward is worth the effort. [16:56]
Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV): "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Reflection: What burdens or sins are weighing you down in your faith journey? How can you begin to lay them aside today to run your race with endurance?
Day 2: Choosing Your Influencers Wisely
In a world saturated with voices and opinions, it is crucial to be intentional about who influences your life. Influence is not limited to celebrities or social media personalities; it extends to anyone whose values and actions impact your own. By choosing to be influenced by Jesus and those who align with your faith, you ensure that your life reflects the love and teachings of Christ. This intentionality requires discernment and a commitment to surrounding yourself with positive influences that encourage spiritual growth and alignment with your values. [36:30]
Proverbs 13:20 (ESV): "Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."
Reflection: Who are the top three people or sources that influence your thoughts and actions daily? Are they leading you closer to or further from your faith values?
Day 3: The Power of Personal Influence
Every individual possesses the power to influence others through their actions, words, and the love they share. This influence is not limited to grand gestures but is often found in everyday interactions. Believers are called to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, enhancing life and bringing light into darkness. By living authentically and intentionally, individuals can positively impact those around them, spreading love and kindness in a world that desperately needs it. This call to influence is a reminder that each person has a role to play in making the world a better place. [35:41]
Matthew 5:13-16 (ESV): "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: Think of one person in your life who could benefit from your positive influence. What specific action can you take this week to be a light in their life?
Day 4: Reflecting on Historical and Personal Influences
Throughout history, individuals have been shaped by the influence of historical figures, family members, and saints who have demonstrated faith and tenacity. These influences serve as a source of inspiration and strength, encouraging believers to persevere in their own faith journeys. Reflecting on these influences can provide valuable insights and motivation to be a positive influence in the lives of others. By acknowledging the impact of these figures, individuals can draw strength from their examples and strive to leave a lasting legacy of faith and love. [32:03]
Hebrews 13:7 (ESV): "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith."
Reflection: Who is one historical or personal figure that has significantly influenced your faith journey? How can their example inspire you to influence others positively?
Day 5: Using Influence for Good
Influence is a powerful tool that extends through giving, actions, and presence in the world. Believers are challenged to use their influence to spread love, kindness, and the message of Jesus, becoming ambassadors of Christ. This call to action is a reminder that each person has the potential to bring hope and transformation to those around them. By being mindful of the impact they have, individuals can strive to be a force for good, using their influence to make a positive difference in the world. [39:23]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you use your influence to spread love and kindness in your community this week? What steps can you take to become a more effective ambassador of Christ?
Quotes
"And so we gather, continuing our mission to make disciples, to be formed as disciples ourselves, and to use our influence to make disciples. Today we're starting a worship series called Influencers, looking at how we are influenced and how we influence others." [00:12:03] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"And we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who's the one who goes before us, and we run and we follow Jesus because Jesus was amazing. Jesus was the first. He showed us the way, and then he showed us how to. Trust God. And Jesus endured when he was tired and when he was hurting, and he ignored his shame, and he just kept going because he knew joy was coming." [00:17:28] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Perhaps you are influenced by family, or friends, or a cloud of witnesses from our letter to the Hebrews. People whose faith inspires us, and have already gone on to celebrate at the heavenly banquet, surrounding us with their faith." [00:29:18] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Jesus was actually one of the world's greatest influencers. He chose disciples. He chose followers. He taught a lot and great crowds followed. And they were influenced. And the pre-social media world he had a large following and the way that he influenced the way that he led was different." [00:33:05] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Every one of us has been created with this capacity to know God. We're never being told that we recognize God. We recognize truths about God without being told. And everything Jesus said, people heard that way. They recognized it as this truth. And that was his authority." [00:34:39] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"And so, after teaching and forming his disciples and the crowds, he told them, you are the light of the world. You bring light into darkness. You are the salt of the earth. You enhance life. He said, go. Be the best version of yourself. Go. Be seen. Go make disciples. And they did." [00:35:16] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"And so we be intentional about who it is we want to be influenced by. And if you want to be influenced by Jesus, then you spend time with Jesus. You read the Bible that Jesus read. You read the stories about his life, the Gospels. You read what the early Christians thought about him. That's the rest of the New Testament." [00:37:07] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Jesus said, you are the light of the world. You bring light into darkness. You are the salt of the earth. You enhance life. And he said, go be the best version. Be the best version of yourself. Be seen. And make disciples. You have influence." [00:38:21] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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