Embracing Purpose, Unity, and Love in Community
Summary
Today, we gathered to lift up the name of the Lord, declaring His holiness, faithfulness, and the never-ending love He has shown us through Christ. We celebrated the gift of new life by dedicating three precious children to God, echoing the biblical example of Hannah, who entrusted her child to the Lord’s purposes. This act of dedication is not just a tradition, but a reminder that every life—no matter how young—has a God-given purpose and destiny. We prayed for these children and their families, asking for wisdom, strength, and unity as they raise their children in the ways of the Lord, and we extended that same blessing to every family present.
We also took time to pray for those longing for children, standing in faith for healing, restoration, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. In doing so, we recognized the importance of church family—how we support, encourage, and stand with one another through every season of life. The local church is not just a place to attend, but a body to which we are called and connected, a place where we grow together and help each other walk out God’s will.
As our church grows, both spiritually and numerically, we are reminded that growth brings responsibility. God entrusts us with people, resources, and opportunities, and it is our duty to guard what He is doing among us. The enemy opposes unity and seeks to sow division, but we are called to be vigilant, humble, and submitted to one another. True submission is not about age or position, but about integrity, humility, and a willingness to put the needs of others above our own preferences.
One of the most significant ways we guard unity is by watching our words. Our speech has the power to build up or tear down, to create wedges or to heal. We are called to speak life, to call things that are not as though they were, and to be ambassadors of Christ’s love in every interaction. Even when we disagree or are hurt, we are to pursue reconciliation, keep the door open for restoration, and refuse to let offense take root. In all things, we are to leave childish ways behind and embrace the higher calling of love, humility, and faith-filled speech, knowing that every word and action has eternal significance.
Key Takeaways
- Every Life Has Purpose and Destiny
God has a unique plan for every person, regardless of age or circumstance. Even when our current situation seems uncertain or disappointing, we can trust that God’s intentions for us are good, and He is working out His purposes in ways we may not yet see. Our role is to dedicate ourselves and our families to Him, believing that He will bring about His promises in due time. [41:25]
- The Power of Spiritual Family and Support
The local church is more than a gathering; it is a spiritual family where we find strength, encouragement, and accountability. We are called to walk together, support one another, and help each other fulfill God’s will. This connection is vital for spiritual growth and for withstanding the challenges and attacks that come our way. [47:45]
- Guarding Unity Requires Humility and Responsibility
Growth in the body of Christ brings increased responsibility to protect what God is doing. The enemy seeks to divide, but we are called to humility, submission, and vigilance. This means taking personal responsibility for our attitudes and actions, refusing to let pride or offense disrupt the unity God desires. [01:09:59]
- Our Words Shape the Atmosphere and Relationships
The way we speak about others, our church, and our community has profound impact. Idle or negative words can drive wedges and hinder what God wants to do, while faith-filled, loving speech can heal, restore, and open doors for reconciliation. We are called to speak life, call things that are not as though they were, and be known as people who remove wedges rather than create them. [01:28:38]
- Maturity Means Leaving Childishness Behind for Love and Reconciliation
True spiritual maturity is seen in our willingness to forgive, pursue peace, and keep the door open for those who have wandered or been hurt. We are Christ’s ambassadors, and every interaction is an opportunity to represent His love and grace. Even when relationships are strained, we are to pray, believe for restoration, and ensure that our hearts remain open and welcoming. [01:36:19]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[35:50] - Worship and Praise
[36:53] - Celebrating God’s Mercy and Grace
[37:47] - Laying Down Burdens and Embracing Righteousness
[38:56] - Baby Dedications Introduction
[40:08] - The Biblical Foundation for Dedication
[41:25] - Praying Purpose and Blessing Over Children
[45:29] - Dedicating Parents and Families
[47:45] - The Importance of Church Family and Connection
[58:30] - Praying for Couples Desiring Children
[01:06:54] - Responsibility with Growth
[01:09:59] - Guarding Unity Against Division
[01:13:03] - The Role of Humility and Submission
[01:20:40] - Living with a Kingdom Mindset
[01:28:38] - The Power of Words in Community
[01:36:19] - Maturity, Love, and Reconciliation
[01:37:24] - Prayer for Humility and Unity
[01:40:45] - Closing and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. 1 Peter 5:5-8 (ESV)
> Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
2. Romans 4:17b (ESV)
> ...the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
3. Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
> For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Peter 5:5-8, what attitudes and actions are believers called to have toward one another and toward God?
2. In the sermon, what biblical example was given for dedicating children to God, and what was the significance of that act? ([40:08])
3. What does Romans 4:17 say about the way God speaks and how does this relate to how we are called to speak? ([01:28:38])
4. How does Jeremiah 29:11 connect to the idea that every life has a God-given purpose and destiny? ([41:25])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Peter connect humility, submission, and vigilance with resisting the enemy’s attempts to divide the church? How might pride or lack of humility open the door to division? ([01:09:59])
2. The sermon emphasized that every life, even from childhood, has a purpose from God. How does dedicating children reflect trust in God’s plans, even when circumstances seem uncertain? ([41:25])
3. The pastor said, “Our words shape the atmosphere and relationships.” What does it mean to “call things that are not as though they were” in our daily conversations? ([01:28:38])
4. What does true spiritual maturity look like according to the sermon, especially in the context of forgiveness and reconciliation? ([01:36:19])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon talked about the importance of spiritual family and support. Who in your church family has supported you in a difficult season, and how did that impact your faith? Is there someone you could encourage or support this week? ([47:45])
2. When you think about the children in your life (your own, or those in your church), how can you intentionally pray for and speak blessing over their God-given purpose? ([41:25])
3. The pastor warned that the enemy tries to sow division, especially as the church grows. Are there any attitudes or habits in your own life that could threaten unity? What is one step you can take to guard unity in your church or family? ([01:09:59])
4. Think about your words this past week. Was there a time when your speech built someone up, or a time when it may have created a wedge? What would it look like to “speak life” in a situation you’re facing right now? ([01:28:38])
5. The sermon challenged us to leave childish ways behind and pursue love and reconciliation. Is there a relationship in your life that needs healing or forgiveness? What is one practical thing you can do to keep the door open for restoration? ([01:36:19])
6. The pastor mentioned that maturity means putting the needs of others above our own preferences. Can you think of a recent situation where you had to choose between your preference and someone else’s need? How did you respond, and what might you do differently next time? ([01:13:03])
7. The message said, “Every word and action has eternal significance.” How does this truth affect the way you approach conversations at home, work, or church? ([01:39:35])
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Devotional
Day 1: God’s Faithfulness and Redemptive Love
God’s love is steadfast and unending, demonstrated by His mercy and grace toward us even when we were undeserving. He proved His faithfulness by sending Jesus to die for us while we were still sinners, washing us clean and granting us the righteousness of Christ. Because of this, we can stand boldly yet humbly before God, knowing that He sympathizes with our weaknesses and offers help in our time of need. No matter our past, in Christ we are made new, refreshed, and able to walk in His authority, love, joy, and peace. [36:53]
Romans 5:8-11 (ESV)
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you struggle to believe that God’s love and mercy truly cover you? How can you receive His forgiveness and walk in the freedom He offers today?
Day 2: God’s Purpose and Plans for Every Life
God has a unique and good plan for every person, including each child and adult. Even when our current circumstances seem uncertain or discouraging, God’s promise is that our lives have meaning and purpose. He desires to bless us, guide us, and see us fulfill the destiny He has prepared, just as He did for Hannah and her child. Our role is to trust Him, dedicate ourselves and our families to His service, and believe that He is working all things for our good, regardless of the mountains and valleys we face. [41:25]
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to trust God’s purpose, even if you can’t see the outcome yet? How can you dedicate that area to Him in prayer today?
Day 3: The Power of Unity and Humility in the Body of Christ
Unity and humility are essential for the growth and health of the church. God calls us to submit to one another, to clothe ourselves in humility, and to be vigilant against the enemy’s attempts to sow division. True submission is not about age or position, but about integrity, a right heart, and a willingness to put others before ourselves. When we guard our hearts and actions, refusing to let pride or personal preference take root, we protect what God is doing in our midst and create a place where His Spirit can move freely. [01:13:03]
1 Peter 5:5-8 (ESV)
“Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
Reflection: Is there a relationship or situation where pride or personal preference has hindered unity? What step can you take today to humble yourself and pursue peace?
Day 4: Guarding Our Words to Build Up, Not Divide
Our words have the power to create unity or drive wedges between people. As followers of Christ, we are called to speak life, to call things that are not as though they were, and to use our words to bless rather than curse. Even when we face problems or disagreements, we are to speak in faith, accessing the love of God within us rather than giving in to frustration or negativity. By guarding what we say about others—whether in our families, workplaces, or church—we become agents of reconciliation and healing, ensuring that people always have a road back to God’s love through us. [01:30:59]
Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
Reflection: Think of a recent conversation where your words could have built up or torn down. How can you intentionally use your words to encourage and bring unity today?
Day 5: Living as Ambassadors of Christ’s Love and Reconciliation
Every interaction we have matters because we are ambassadors of Christ. Our calling is to love others, to keep the door open for reconciliation, and to represent Jesus well in every relationship. Even when we have been hurt or relationships are strained, we are to pray for softened hearts, seek peace, and ensure that no one feels excluded from God’s love because of us. By submitting ourselves to God’s law of love and leaving childish things behind, we fulfill our greater purpose in the kingdom and allow God to use us as vessels of His mercy and restoration. [01:36:19]
2 Corinthians 5:18-20 (ESV)
“All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”
Reflection: Who in your life needs to experience Christ’s love and reconciliation through you? What practical step can you take today to reach out and be a bridge of grace?
Quotes
``Matter of fact, I preached a message one time, and I believe it's true, that I don't really think the enemy really cares who he divides. It doesn't matter if he divides a husband and a wife, if he divides a parent and a child, if he divides a grandparent and their children and grandchildren, if he divides an employee and an employer, if he divides a student and a teacher, an athlete and a coach, a person and a pastor or a person from a particular church. I don't really think he cares who he separates or how he separates, but he is the anti -unity person. [01:10:29] (40 seconds)
He doesn't want unity at all. And when something is growing, I believe it's because that unity has increased. I believe that it's because the love of God has increased between people and also towards God. I believe that hearts have begun to be pure in what they do. And therefore, it's a place where people feel safe, and it's a place where people feel like they're growing. [01:11:09] (29 seconds)
This is about your own mouth. You know, it's about your own actions. Why? That's how we protect this. And we take personal responsibility to say that I'm not going to say that. I'm not going to do that. I'm not going to go out of my way. I'm not going to bring my pride into it. Why? Because I don't want to be the one who causes division in something that God's doing. Amen? [01:14:26] (27 seconds)
Yes, all of you, but submissive to one another, and be clothed in humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time, casting all of your care upon him, for he cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil, walks about as a roaring lion, seeking whom you may devour. And we're pretty familiar with that scripture. And I believe that there's levels of submission there. And when it says submit to your elders, that doesn't necessarily mean somebody who is older than you. It just doesn't. [01:15:00] (38 seconds)
You have to understand there's times in the kingdom of God where certain parts of the body get more attention from time to time and we can't walk around with some kind of, you know, chip on our shoulder like some spoiled kid when one child got one thing and then you didn't. Well, where's mine? You're not fair. [01:20:44] (20 seconds)
We're called to live in a different place of love. We're called to live with a, with a, a different, um, uh, uh, site. He says, looking unto Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith, right? That's what we're called to do. [01:21:03] (15 seconds)
Listen, we're people of God. So therefore we're people of faith. And I know that you're, you're out and about with people that are not most of the time, a lot of people that are not, but as people of faith, the Bible says we're people that call those things that aren't as though they were. [01:29:33] (16 seconds)
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