Embracing Our Legacy: A Vision for the Future
Summary
### Summary
This morning, we reflected on the past 100 years of Southlake Church, celebrating our journey from a small storefront in Gary, Indiana, to a thriving community that has impacted thousands of lives. Our history is marked by significant milestones, including raising millions for global missions, supporting retired pastors, and contributing to educational institutions. This legacy is a testament to God's vision and plan for us.
Our current sermon series, "Go! The Next 100 Years," is rooted in the Great Commission from Matthew 28, where Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. However, we face a critical challenge: only 30% of churches in the country actively disciple. This lack of discipleship has led to a decline in church attendance and influence. To ensure Southlake's future, we must be intentional in our actions and align ourselves with God's mission.
We must be a loving church, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 22, loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. This love will transform us and those around us. We must also be a wise church, grounded in Scripture, as Paul writes in 2 Timothy. The Bible equips us for every good work, making us bold and wise disciples.
Obedience is crucial. As John records, loving God means keeping His commandments, which are not burdensome. A thriving church obeys God without fear. We must also be a sending church, sharing the gospel with everyone, as Jesus instructed in Acts 1 and Mark 16. Our mission is to reach all people, regardless of their background.
Finally, we must be a praying church. Philippians 4 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer, experiencing His peace that surpasses all understanding. Our church's foundation was built on prayer, and we must continue this legacy. We shared stories of powerful prayers that led to significant revivals, emphasizing the importance of fervent, faith-filled prayer.
As we look to the next 100 years, we commit to being a church that loves, is wise, obedient, sending, and praying. We trust God to guide us and use us for His glory.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Vision and Legacy: Reflecting on Southlake's 100-year journey, it's evident that a clear vision and God's guidance have been crucial. Our history of impactful missions and community support shows that long-term commitment and faith can lead to significant, lasting change. This legacy challenges us to continue building for future generations. [02:38]
2. The Great Commission as Our Foundation: The Great Commission in Matthew 28 is not just a command but a foundational principle for the church's future. Despite the alarming statistic that only 30% of churches actively disciple, we are called to be different. By prioritizing discipleship, we align ourselves with Jesus' mission and ensure the church's growth and relevance. [03:40]
3. Loving God and Neighbor: Jesus' command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves, is central to our mission. This love transforms us and those around us, making our church a beacon of hope and compassion. When we embody this love, we reflect Christ to the world. [07:12]
4. The Importance of Scripture: Being a wise church means grounding ourselves in Scripture. As Paul writes in 2 Timothy, the Bible equips us for every good work, making us bold and wise disciples. Regular study and application of God's Word are essential for spiritual growth and effective ministry. [09:17]
5. The Power of Prayer: Our church's foundation was built on prayer, and this must continue. Stories of powerful prayers leading to revivals remind us of the importance of fervent, faith-filled prayer. By prioritizing prayer, we invite God's presence and power into our lives and our church, ensuring His guidance and blessing. [20:45]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:20] - Reflecting on 100 Years
[02:38] - Vision for the Next 100 Years
[03:40] - The Great Commission
[04:39] - The State of the Church Today
[05:26] - Challenges Facing the Church
[06:23] - The Need for Intentionality
[07:12] - Loving God and Neighbor
[08:40] - Being a Wise Church
[09:17] - Importance of Scripture
[10:02] - Obedience to God
[11:14] - Being a Sending Church
[12:21] - Sharing the Gospel
[13:59] - The Power of Prayer
[15:09] - Stories of Faith and Prayer
[20:45] - Praying for the Next 100 Years
[23:32] - Congregational Prayer
[37:58] - Closing and Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission)
> "And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.'"
2. Matthew 22:37-39
> "And He said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'"
3. Philippians 4:6-7
> "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
### Observation Questions
1. What significant milestones were highlighted in Southlake Church's 100-year history? [01:20]
2. According to the sermon, what percentage of churches in the country actively disciple? [03:40]
3. What are the two greatest commandments mentioned by Jesus in Matthew 22? [07:12]
4. How does Philippians 4:6-7 describe the peace that comes from prayer? [13:59]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the Great Commission in Matthew 28 considered foundational for the church's future? [03:40]
2. How does loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind transform us and those around us? [07:12]
3. What does it mean to be a wise church grounded in Scripture, according to 2 Timothy? [09:17]
4. How can fervent, faith-filled prayer lead to significant revivals, as illustrated by the stories shared in the sermon? [20:45]
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Southlake's 100-year journey, how can you contribute to building a lasting legacy for future generations? [02:38]
2. The sermon mentioned that only 30% of churches actively disciple. How can you personally engage in discipleship within our church community? [03:40]
3. Jesus commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Identify one practical way you can show love to a neighbor this week. [07:12]
4. How can you incorporate regular Bible study into your daily routine to become a wiser disciple? [09:17]
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of obedience to God's commandments. What is one area of your life where you can practice greater obedience to God? [10:02]
6. Reflect on a time when prayer brought peace into your life. How can you prioritize prayer to experience God's peace more consistently? [13:59]
7. The sermon shared stories of powerful prayers leading to revivals. What specific prayer can you commit to this week to seek God's guidance and blessing for our church's future? [20:45]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Vision and Legacy
Reflecting on Southlake's 100-year journey, it's evident that a clear vision and God's guidance have been crucial. Our history of impactful missions and community support shows that long-term commitment and faith can lead to significant, lasting change. This legacy challenges us to continue building for future generations. The milestones achieved, such as raising millions for global missions and supporting retired pastors, are a testament to what can be accomplished when a community is united under God's vision.
As we look forward to the next 100 years, we must remember that our actions today will shape the future. We are called to be stewards of this legacy, ensuring that our church remains a beacon of hope and transformation. By staying committed to God's plan and being intentional in our actions, we can continue to make a significant impact on our community and beyond. [02:38]
Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV): "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’"
Reflection: Think about the legacy you are building in your own life. What steps can you take today to ensure that your actions align with God's vision for your future?
Day 2: The Great Commission as Our Foundation
The Great Commission in Matthew 28 is not just a command but a foundational principle for the church's future. Despite the alarming statistic that only 30% of churches actively disciple, we are called to be different. By prioritizing discipleship, we align ourselves with Jesus' mission and ensure the church's growth and relevance. Discipleship is more than just teaching; it involves mentoring, nurturing, and walking alongside others in their faith journey.
To be effective in this mission, we must be intentional in creating opportunities for discipleship within our church. This could involve small groups, mentorship programs, or one-on-one Bible studies. By investing in the spiritual growth of others, we are fulfilling Jesus' command and building a strong foundation for the future of our church. [03:40]
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also."
Reflection: Identify one person in your life whom you can disciple or mentor. What steps can you take this week to begin or deepen that relationship?
Day 3: Loving God and Neighbor
Jesus' command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves, is central to our mission. This love transforms us and those around us, making our church a beacon of hope and compassion. When we embody this love, we reflect Christ to the world. Loving God and neighbor is not just about feelings but about actions that demonstrate our commitment to these relationships.
This love can be shown in various ways, such as serving others, offering a listening ear, or providing support in times of need. By prioritizing love in our daily interactions, we create a community that is welcoming and inclusive, reflecting the heart of Christ. [07:12]
1 John 4:20-21 (ESV): "If anyone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother."
Reflection: Think of a practical way you can show love to a neighbor or someone in your community this week. How can you make this a regular practice in your life?
Day 4: The Importance of Scripture
Being a wise church means grounding ourselves in Scripture. As Paul writes in 2 Timothy, the Bible equips us for every good work, making us bold and wise disciples. Regular study and application of God's Word are essential for spiritual growth and effective ministry. Scripture provides the foundation for our beliefs and actions, guiding us in truth and righteousness.
To be a church that is grounded in Scripture, we must prioritize Bible study both individually and collectively. This involves not only reading the Bible but also meditating on it, discussing it with others, and applying its teachings to our lives. By doing so, we become more equipped to face the challenges of life and to serve others effectively. [09:17]
Psalm 119:105 (ESV): "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
Reflection: Set aside a specific time each day this week to read and meditate on Scripture. How can you incorporate what you learn into your daily life and interactions with others?
Day 5: The Power of Prayer
Our church's foundation was built on prayer, and this must continue. Stories of powerful prayers leading to revivals remind us of the importance of fervent, faith-filled prayer. By prioritizing prayer, we invite God's presence and power into our lives and our church, ensuring His guidance and blessing. Prayer is not just a ritual but a vital connection with God that sustains and empowers us.
To be a praying church, we must cultivate a culture of prayer within our community. This can involve regular prayer meetings, prayer chains, and encouraging individual prayer practices. By making prayer a central part of our lives, we open ourselves to God's transformative work and align ourselves with His will. [20:45]
James 5:16 (ESV): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
Reflection: Commit to a specific time of prayer each day this week. What specific needs or concerns can you bring before God, trusting in His power to work in those situations?
Quotes
1. "But all of this didn't happen without a vision and a plan from God. Our vision right now is embedded within the current sermon series, Go! The Next 100 Years. This series is designed... To focus us on what we need to do to ensure that the church is here 100 years from now. Over the past several weeks, we've been building the foundation of the church for the generations to come. And it all begins with one simple word, Go." [02:38] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We have to begin by loving God. The longevity of this church is measured by how it loves God. When we love God with all of our heart and with all of our soul and with all of our mind, then God will use this church in a mighty way. But more importantly, when we love God like this, with everything that we are, he loves us, he heals us, he transforms us, and he blesses us beyond our comprehension." [07:56] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I am convinced that if we learn how to love like Christ, then we will begin to live like Christ. The world does not know what the love of God is. And we have an incredible, incredible time in our history to demonstrate to the world that we can love them the way that Jesus loves them. We will continue to be a church that loves people and the lost. We will come to see that God's love is what they have been searching for by the way we demonstrate agape love to them." [08:40] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We cannot be disciples of Jesus Christ if we don't know the word of God. The reason we study the Bible is that so God can speak to us through his living word. Through our own study, we are healed, inspired, transformed, and ultimately we become wiser. As Paul points out, scripture is then useful in every situation. No longer crippled by fear or unsure of what to say or what to do. Disciples know how and when to act. Disciples are bold because they have been equipped with love, wisdom, and their greatest resource, the Holy Spirit." [10:02] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "A thriving church is a church that obeys God. It is not up to us to pick and choose the commandments God gives the church. We are blessed to be his children. And as children, we should do what our Father tells us. Disciples know that when we obey God, we can trust him and walk in no fear of the future. Disciples understand there is no burden in being obedient to God because they love God." [10:41] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "We are a church that shares the gospel of Jesus Christ with the world around us. It doesn't matter the person's sex, race, belief, or even their sin. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. We love the lost like God loved us. And we share the gospel with them because they are lost. And we look forward to seeing them in eternity with us." [13:24] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Blessed are we that we can come before the creator of the universe, the author of life, and have a one on one conversation with him. We can pour out our praise, our sins, our emotions, our struggles, and our faith to him knowing that he hears every word. We are a church that has mighty prayer in all occasions." [14:34] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Do you trust in the world and what you see or do you trust in your God? We are in this building today because these two women had great faith and God answered them." [18:02] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "God heard the prayers of John Wesley. He heard the prayers of Billy Graham. He hears our prayers today. So we're going to pray for the next 100 years of this church and pray that God will use us that he will do it again through Southlake. When we think of the type of prayers that John Wesley prayed, the type of prayers that Billy Graham prayed, the type of prayers that the two women that I just mentioned that they prayed, we imagine prayers that are passionate prayers, prayers that seek God, prayers that reveal the heart of the person who is calling out to God." [20:45] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Father fill us with your Holy Spirit to boldly proclaim there is salvation in no one else but your son Jesus Christ. Keep us committed to sharing your salvation and your beautiful wonderful life changing eternal altering name compelling us to boldly speak your name. We thank you for calling us to be your ambassadors of your kingdom. We pray that you give us the boldness and courage to share the gospel with those around us. Help us to overcome any fears or doubts we may have. Open the hearts and minds of those we share the gospel with. May they receive your truth and be transformed by it. Give us the words to speak and the wisdom to know how to reach each person uniquely. May your Holy Spirit guide and empower us to be effective witnesses for you shining your light in a dark world." [34:23] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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