Embracing Our Mission: Uniting in Christ's Calling
Summary
### Summary
On this Lord's Day morning, we gathered to address some important church business and to reflect on our mission as followers of Christ. We began by voting to officially elect Pastor Jake Metcalf as the pastor of Parkview Church of the Nazarene, a decision that was met with unanimous support and joy. This process highlighted the importance of community involvement and the democratic nature of our church governance.
We then transitioned into a time of worship and reflection, focusing on the mission that Jesus has given us. Drawing from John 17, we explored the various aspects of Jesus' prayer for His disciples and for all believers. Jesus prayed for our protection, unity, sanctification, and for us to be effective witnesses to the world. This prayer underscores the mission that we are called to live out daily.
The mission is not just a grand, abstract concept but a personal calling for each of us. We are reminded that not everyone can do everything, but everyone can do something. Each of us has unique spiritual gifts that God has given us to help one another and to advance His kingdom. Whether it's through direct missionary work, supporting those who go, or serving within our local community, every contribution is valuable.
We also reflected on the history of the church and the sacrifices made by early Christians and missionaries who spread the gospel despite great personal risk. This legacy challenges us to consider our own role in God's mission. We are called to be the face of Christ in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and families, living in such a way that others can see Jesus through us.
As we move forward, we are encouraged to celebrate our individual gifts and to use them for the glory of God. The mission is not complicated; it's about being who God has called us to be, right where we are. We concluded with a call to action, inviting everyone to reflect on their unique gifts and how they can contribute to the mission of the church.
### Key Takeaways
1. Community and Governance: The process of electing Pastor Jake Metcalf as our pastor underscores the importance of community involvement and democratic governance in the church. It reminds us that every member's voice matters and that we are collectively responsible for the leadership and direction of our church. [09:30]
2. Jesus' Prayer for Us: In John 17, Jesus prays for our protection, unity, sanctification, and effectiveness as witnesses. This prayer is not just for the early disciples but for all believers, emphasizing that our mission is to live in a way that reflects Christ to the world. [38:02]
3. Unique Spiritual Gifts: Each of us has been given unique spiritual gifts to help one another and advance God's kingdom. Not everyone can do everything, but everyone can do something. Recognizing and celebrating our individual gifts allows us to contribute meaningfully to the mission. [47:20]
4. Historical Legacy: The sacrifices of early Christians and missionaries challenge us to consider our own role in God's mission. Their dedication and willingness to spread the gospel despite great personal risk serve as a powerful example for us to follow. [44:45]
5. Personal Mission: The mission is not about grand gestures but about being who God has called us to be, right where we are. Whether through direct missionary work, supporting those who go, or serving within our local community, every contribution is valuable and necessary for the advancement of God's kingdom. [59:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:30] - Election of Pastor Jake Metcalf
[11:09] - Prayer for Guidance
[13:11] - Collecting Ballots
[16:41] - Worship in Song
[24:06] - Offering and Prayer
[35:14] - Introduction to the Mission
[36:14] - Jesus' Prayer in John 17
[38:02] - Key Aspects of Jesus' Prayer
[39:14] - Our Role as Witnesses
[41:24] - The Great Commission
[43:44] - Early Church Mission
[46:11] - Personal Contribution to the Mission
[47:20] - Unique Spiritual Gifts
[50:57] - Global Mission Efforts
[59:59] - Personal Mission and Call to Action
[01:01:59] - Closing Song and Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 17:11, 15, 17, 20-21 (NIV)
> "I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one... My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one... Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth... My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
2. Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
> "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
3. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (NIV)
> "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good."
### Observation Questions
1. What were the key aspects of Jesus' prayer for His disciples in John 17? ([38:02])
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the election of Pastor Jake Metcalf for the church community? ([09:30])
3. How does the sermon describe the role of individual spiritual gifts in the mission of the church? ([47:20])
4. What historical examples were given in the sermon to illustrate the sacrifices made by early Christians and missionaries? ([44:45])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus pray for unity among His followers in John 17, and how does this unity serve as a witness to the world? ([38:40])
2. How does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 relate to the personal mission of each believer as described in the sermon? ([41:24])
3. What does 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 suggest about the diversity of spiritual gifts and their purpose within the church community? ([47:20])
4. How can the historical sacrifices of early Christians and missionaries inspire contemporary believers to engage in God's mission today? ([44:45])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the process of electing Pastor Jake Metcalf. How does this process emphasize the importance of community involvement and democratic governance in the church? How can you personally contribute to the governance and direction of your church? ([09:30])
2. Jesus prayed for our protection, unity, and sanctification. In what ways can you actively seek to promote unity and sanctification within your small group or church community? ([38:02])
3. Identify your unique spiritual gifts. How can you use these gifts to support the mission of your church, whether through direct involvement or by supporting others who go? ([47:20])
4. The sermon mentioned the sacrifices of early Christians and missionaries. What personal sacrifices are you willing to make to further God's mission in your community or beyond? ([44:45])
5. The mission is about being who God has called us to be, right where we are. What specific actions can you take this week to be the face of Christ in your neighborhood, workplace, or family? ([59:59])
6. How can you celebrate and encourage the use of spiritual gifts within your small group or church? Share a time when someone else's spiritual gift made a significant impact on you or the community. ([47:20])
7. Reflect on the call to action at the end of the sermon. What steps will you take to identify and utilize your unique gifts for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom? ([59:59])
Devotional
Day 1: Community and Governance
The process of electing Pastor Jake Metcalf as our pastor underscores the importance of community involvement and democratic governance in the church. It reminds us that every member's voice matters and that we are collectively responsible for the leadership and direction of our church. This democratic process is a reflection of the early church's practices, where decisions were made collectively and with prayerful consideration. It is a reminder that we are not just passive attendees but active participants in the life and mission of our church.
Involvement in church governance is a way to exercise our faith and commitment to the community. It is an opportunity to contribute to the direction and health of the church, ensuring that it remains a place where God's love and truth are proclaimed. As we move forward with Pastor Jake Metcalf, let us continue to engage in the life of the church, offering our gifts, insights, and prayers for the collective good. [09:30]
Acts 6:3-4 (ESV): "Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in the governance and decision-making processes of your church community? What specific steps can you take this week to contribute to the collective mission of your church?
Day 2: Jesus' Prayer for Us
In John 17, Jesus prays for our protection, unity, sanctification, and effectiveness as witnesses. This prayer is not just for the early disciples but for all believers, emphasizing that our mission is to live in a way that reflects Christ to the world. Jesus' prayer highlights the importance of being united in purpose and spirit, protected from the evil one, and set apart for God's work. It is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our mission; Jesus Himself intercedes for us.
As we reflect on Jesus' prayer, we are called to examine our own lives and our commitment to the mission. Are we living in unity with our fellow believers? Are we seeking God's protection and sanctification? Are we being effective witnesses to the world around us? These are the questions that Jesus' prayer invites us to consider as we strive to live out our faith daily. [38:02]
John 17:20-21 (ESV): "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
Reflection: In what ways can you foster unity and sanctification within your church community? How can you be a more effective witness to those around you this week?
Day 3: Unique Spiritual Gifts
Each of us has been given unique spiritual gifts to help one another and advance God's kingdom. Not everyone can do everything, but everyone can do something. Recognizing and celebrating our individual gifts allows us to contribute meaningfully to the mission. These gifts are not just for our personal benefit but are meant to be used in service to others and to glorify God. It is through the diverse gifts of the body of Christ that the church can effectively carry out its mission.
Understanding and utilizing our spiritual gifts requires self-reflection and a willingness to serve. It means being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and being willing to step out in faith. Whether our gifts are in teaching, hospitality, administration, or any other area, they are all valuable and necessary for the functioning of the church. Let us seek to discover and use our gifts for the benefit of the community and the advancement of God's kingdom. [47:20]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ."
Reflection: What unique spiritual gifts has God given you? How can you use these gifts to serve others and advance God's kingdom this week?
Day 4: Historical Legacy
The sacrifices of early Christians and missionaries challenge us to consider our own role in God's mission. Their dedication and willingness to spread the gospel despite great personal risk serve as a powerful example for us to follow. These early believers faced persecution, hardship, and even death, yet they remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ and His mission. Their legacy is a testament to the power of faith and the importance of living out the gospel.
Reflecting on the history of the church can inspire us to be more courageous and committed in our own faith journey. It reminds us that we are part of a larger story, one that has been shaped by the sacrifices and faithfulness of those who came before us. As we consider their example, let us be encouraged to take bold steps in our own lives to share the gospel and live out our faith, no matter the cost. [44:45]
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: How does the legacy of early Christians and missionaries inspire you in your own faith journey? What steps can you take this week to live out your faith more boldly?
Day 5: Personal Mission
The mission is not about grand gestures but about being who God has called us to be, right where we are. Whether through direct missionary work, supporting those who go, or serving within our local community, every contribution is valuable and necessary for the advancement of God's kingdom. Our personal mission is to reflect Christ in our daily lives, in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and families. It is about being faithful in the small things and trusting that God will use our efforts for His glory.
Living out our personal mission requires intentionality and a willingness to be used by God in whatever capacity He sees fit. It means being open to the opportunities He places before us and being faithful in our everyday interactions. As we seek to live out our mission, let us remember that every act of love, kindness, and service is a reflection of Christ to the world. Let us be encouraged to embrace our personal mission and to trust that God will use us for His purposes. [59:59]
Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take this week to live out your personal mission in your community, workplace, or family? How can you be more intentional in reflecting Christ in your daily interactions?
Quotes
1. "Nothing that we face is beyond your abilities. You are more than able to meet the needs that we bring to you today and I pray that in these moments the holy spirit will speak that our hearts would be open as we bring your tithes and our offerings we do so joyfully we do so because we want to we do so because we love you we love your church we love the kingdom we love what's happening around the world in the kingdom." [25:23] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Now, this Sunday and next Sunday, we're not going to be thinking about the past, we're going to be leaning into the future. Thinking about our future and where we're going, not where we've been. It's not who has been, it's who is and who will be. So, we're going to be moving that way, and I want you to start thinking that way." [35:14] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "How do people come to faith in Christ? Through our message. Through our lives. A message in the life, or a verbal testimony about our faith in God. And he said, I pray that they will be one, just as you and I are one, as you are in me, Father, and I'm in you. And may they be in us, so that the world will believe that you sent me." [38:40] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You and I are the face of God our neighborhood, in our workplace, among our children. We are what God looks like. When people are looking for Christ, they look at us. You've heard them say, well, if that's what it means to be a Christian, and sometimes they go, if you're from the north, you say it goes south. I'm from the south, so I say it goes north. It goes bad on you, you know." [40:05] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Not everybody can do everything. Too often we fret over what we cannot do rather than celebrate what we can do. Yeah. Oh, I could never do that. Well, I'm not. No, I'm not. But not everybody can do everything. The imagery that Paul uses in 1 Corinthians is the image of the body. After he talks about this mission, he starts talking about the body. He says we're all a part of the body." [46:44] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Everybody can do something. And I've intentionally separated the words something and everything because I want to emphasize everybody can do something. Not just something, but something. Not everybody can do everything, but everybody can do something. Isn't that great? You don't have to be able to play a keyboard like Scott to be useful in the ministry of music in the church. You have a gift to bring, something." [53:18] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "All of you together. one of you alone. Not that section alone. Or this section alone. But all of you together are the body of Christ. Isn't that beautiful? God just takes ordinary people and he does extraordinary things and we don't even know what we're doing is extraordinary. We just don't know. We're just doing what we love to do and what we're gifted to do." [54:29] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "When we give ourselves away in the way that God has gifted us when we give ourselves away there is no greater way to live than the Christ way and living into the mission of God what a thrill what a joy well thank the Lord." [01:01:30] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "You may be thinking oh not me I'm just telling you the man on the middle cross that said you could come that's all the authority you need that's all you need anyone else would you leave reverently and prayerfully and those of you who are of able body not sane mind but able body if you could fold up your chairs and we'll have the cards out here in a moment and while they're praying let's visit with one another but do so reverently and prayerfully okay." [01:06:59] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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