Embracing the Great Commission: A Call to Action
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the profound importance of the Great Commission and the critical role each of us plays in fulfilling it. We began by reflecting on the beauty of worship and the sense of family within the church community. This sense of belonging and authenticity is what God desires from us, rather than mere performance. We then delved into the Great Commission, emphasizing that it is not a suggestion but a command for all Christians to evangelize and make disciples. The story of a young football player leading his friend to Christ highlighted that evangelism is not just the job of pastors but a calling for every believer.
We discussed the alarming statistic that nine out of ten Christians have never led another person to Christ, underscoring the need for a shift in mindset. The sermon also addressed the misconception that evangelism is a spiritual gift only some possess, clarifying that it is a responsibility for all. We examined the importance of focusing on youth, as two out of three people who come to Christ do so before the age of 18. The enemy's targeting of this age group was also highlighted, urging us to protect and guide our young people.
The sermon concluded with a call to action, urging the congregation to recommit to the Great Commission by focusing on youth, using their time, talents, and treasures for the sake of the gospel. We were reminded that the heart of Jesus is deeply connected to welcoming and nurturing children, and that our efforts should reflect this priority. The message was a powerful reminder that our mission is not just to attend church but to actively participate in God's work by evangelizing and discipling others, especially the younger generation.
### Key Takeaways
1. Authentic Worship Over Performance: God desires our hearts more than our performances. True worship is about authenticity and community, where we can bring our tears, hopes, and joys without the need to impress. This genuine connection is what makes a church feel like home and allows the Spirit of God to move freely among us. [03:54]
2. The Great Commission is for Everyone: Evangelism is not just the job of pastors or evangelists; it is a command for every believer. The story of a young football player leading his friend to Christ illustrates that we all have a role in fulfilling the Great Commission. This responsibility is not optional but a core aspect of our Christian faith. [08:57]
3. Focus on Youth: Two out of three people who come to Christ do so before the age of 18. This statistic underscores the importance of focusing our evangelistic efforts on young people. The enemy targets this age group, making it even more crucial for us to guide and protect them in their spiritual journey. [24:33]
4. Evangelism is Not a Gift but a Responsibility: The misconception that evangelism is a spiritual gift only some possess needs to be corrected. According to the Bible, evangelism is a responsibility for all believers. Just as we wouldn't excuse ourselves from giving because we don't have the "gift of giving," we shouldn't excuse ourselves from evangelizing. [10:21]
5. Recommit to the Great Commission: The call to recommit to the Great Commission involves using our time, talents, and treasures for the sake of the gospel. This includes focusing on youth, as they are the most receptive to the message of Christ. By doing so, we align ourselves with the heart of Jesus, who welcomed and valued children. [49:03]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:59] - Reflections on Worship
[02:23] - Prayer and Authenticity
[03:54] - Sense of Family in Church
[05:11] - Introduction and Background
[06:41] - The Great Commission
[08:57] - Evangelism is for Everyone
[10:21] - Misconceptions About Evangelism
[12:22] - Engaging with Youth
[14:42] - Practical Steps for Discipleship
[17:43] - The Value of Jesus Over Wealth
[20:47] - The Importance of Youth in Church
[24:33] - Statistics on Youth Conversion
[29:56] - The Enemy's Targeting of Youth
[39:45] - The Heart of Jesus for Children
[49:03] - Recommitment to the Great Commission
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 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."
2. Luke 18:16 (NIV): "But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.'"
3. Ephesians 4:12 (NIV): "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."
### Observation Questions
1. What does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 command all believers to do?
2. According to Luke 18:16, how does Jesus view children and their place in the kingdom of God?
3. In Ephesians 4:12, what is the purpose of the roles of teachers, pastors, and evangelists in the church? [07:52]
4. What statistic was shared in the sermon about the age at which most people come to Christ? [24:33]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the Great Commission described as a command rather than a suggestion, and what implications does this have for every believer? [06:41]
2. How does the story of the young football player leading his friend to Christ illustrate the sermon’s point about evangelism being a responsibility for all believers? [08:57]
3. What are some reasons given in the sermon for why focusing on youth is crucial for the church’s mission? [24:33]
4. How does the misconception that evangelism is a spiritual gift only some possess affect the church’s overall mission? [10:21]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own worship experience. How can you move from performance-based worship to more authentic worship that fosters a sense of community and belonging? [03:54]
2. The sermon mentioned that nine out of ten Christians have never led another person to Christ. What steps can you take to become more active in evangelism? [08:57]
3. Considering the importance of youth in coming to Christ, what specific actions can you take to support and guide young people in your church or community? [24:33]
4. How can you use your time, talents, and treasures to recommit to the Great Commission, especially in focusing on youth? [49:03]
5. Think about a young person in your life. How can you intentionally invest in their spiritual growth and help them feel valued and welcomed in the church? [23:11]
6. The sermon highlighted the enemy’s targeting of youth. What are some practical ways you can protect and guide the young people in your life from negative influences? [29:56]
7. Reflect on the heart of Jesus for children as described in Luke 18:16. How can you align your actions and priorities with this aspect of Jesus’ ministry? [22:42]
Devotional
Day 1: Authentic Worship Over Performance
True worship is about authenticity and community, where we can bring our tears, hopes, and joys without the need to impress. This genuine connection is what makes a church feel like home and allows the Spirit of God to move freely among us. God desires our hearts more than our performances. When we gather as a church, it is not about putting on a show but about coming together as a family to worship God in spirit and truth. This means being real with one another, sharing our struggles and victories, and supporting each other in our faith journeys.
In a world that often values appearances and achievements, it can be easy to fall into the trap of performing for others, even in our spiritual lives. However, God sees beyond our outward actions and looks at the condition of our hearts. He desires a relationship with us that is built on honesty and vulnerability. As we come before Him in worship, let us remember that He values our genuine expressions of love and devotion more than any outward display. [03:54]
John 4:23-24 (ESV): "But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth."
Reflection: In what ways have you been tempted to perform rather than worship authentically? How can you cultivate a more genuine and heartfelt worship experience in your personal and communal life?
Day 2: The Great Commission is for Everyone
Evangelism is not just the job of pastors or evangelists; it is a command for every believer. The story of a young football player leading his friend to Christ illustrates that we all have a role in fulfilling the Great Commission. This responsibility is not optional but a core aspect of our Christian faith. Jesus' command to go and make disciples of all nations is a call to action for every follower of Christ, regardless of age, occupation, or spiritual maturity.
Many Christians may feel inadequate or unqualified to share their faith, but the truth is that God equips each of us with unique gifts and opportunities to reach others. Evangelism is about sharing the love and truth of Jesus in our everyday interactions, whether through words, actions, or simply living out our faith authentically. We are all called to be witnesses of Christ's transforming power in our lives and to invite others into a relationship with Him. [08:57]
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about the love of Jesus? What steps can you take this week to share your faith with them in a natural and authentic way?
Day 3: Focus on Youth
Two out of three people who come to Christ do so before the age of 18. This statistic underscores the importance of focusing our evangelistic efforts on young people. The enemy targets this age group, making it even more crucial for us to guide and protect them in their spiritual journey. Young people are at a formative stage in their lives, and the decisions they make during this time can have a lasting impact on their future.
As a church, we have a responsibility to invest in the next generation, providing them with the support, guidance, and resources they need to grow in their faith. This includes creating environments where they feel valued and understood, as well as equipping them with the knowledge and tools to navigate the challenges they face. By focusing on youth, we are not only fulfilling the Great Commission but also ensuring the future of the church. [24:33]
Ecclesiastes 12:1 (ESV): "Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, 'I have no pleasure in them.'"
Reflection: How can you actively support and invest in the spiritual growth of the young people in your church or community? What specific actions can you take to mentor or encourage them in their faith journey?
Day 4: Evangelism is Not a Gift but a Responsibility
The misconception that evangelism is a spiritual gift only some possess needs to be corrected. According to the Bible, evangelism is a responsibility for all believers. Just as we wouldn't excuse ourselves from giving because we don't have the "gift of giving," we shouldn't excuse ourselves from evangelizing. Every Christian is called to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others, regardless of their perceived abilities or comfort level.
Evangelism is about being a witness to what God has done in our lives and sharing that testimony with others. It is not about having all the answers or being a skilled speaker, but about being willing to step out in faith and trust that God will use our efforts for His glory. By embracing this responsibility, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us and advance the kingdom of God. [10:21]
2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV): "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching."
Reflection: What fears or misconceptions have held you back from sharing your faith? How can you overcome these obstacles and take steps to fulfill your responsibility to evangelize?
Day 5: Recommit to the Great Commission
The call to recommit to the Great Commission involves using our time, talents, and treasures for the sake of the gospel. This includes focusing on youth, as they are the most receptive to the message of Christ. By doing so, we align ourselves with the heart of Jesus, who welcomed and valued children. Our mission is not just to attend church but to actively participate in God's work by evangelizing and discipling others, especially the younger generation.
Recommitting to the Great Commission means being intentional about how we use our resources to further God's kingdom. It involves making sacrifices and prioritizing the things that matter most to God. As we invest in the lives of others and share the gospel, we are fulfilling our purpose as followers of Christ and making an eternal impact. Let us be encouraged to renew our commitment to this vital mission and seek ways to be more effective in our evangelistic efforts. [49:03]
1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (ESV): "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings."
Reflection: In what ways can you use your time, talents, and treasures to support the Great Commission? What specific actions can you take this week to recommit to this mission and make a difference in the lives of others?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "It's the great commission, not the great suggestion, that's not a suggestion, it's what Christians are supposed to be about. It's what the church is supposed to be about." [06:41] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You shall receive the Spirit and you shall be my witnesses. We're all supposed to evangelize. Not just the full-time people." [10:21] (11 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Bible is about a bunch of messed up people like us. And one perfect person, Jesus Christ. Now, don't excuse sin. But get rid of this self-righteous, pharisaical, legalistic, dead cane." [15:47] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The mystery of God is so complex that the smartest man or woman in the world can understand it. But it's so simple that a child can receive it. The Bible says in John 1.12, To as many as receive him, gave he the right to become children of God." [17:43] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When you need to know what to do in life, look in the Bible. When you need to not know what to do, pray. Come and worship. Hang out with cool people. That's called discipleship." [16:39] (7 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Nine out of ten Christians have never led another person to Christ. I'm not here to shame you. I'm just talking reality. We think it's the pastor's job. We think it's the evangelist's job. Right? Right? Right? Right? Right? Who's next? Billy Graham. We think it's the band's job. That's the problem." [08:57] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The strength of a young person is their zeal. The strength of an older person is their gray hair, which is wisdom. Just volunteer. Just be in the room. Just drive them to camp. Just be there. It matters. Please hear me. If we're going to win this generation, we have to refocus on the Great Commission and then focus on youth." [29:18] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The enemy is targeting this group. Do you know we still have a real enemy? And it's not a political party? It's not even the culture or social media? The enemy fell from heaven and took a third of the angels with him. There is still a right and a wrong. There is still a good and a bad. There is still a heaven and a... And there is still God and... A devil, Satan." [31:07] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The work of the kingdom is not as important. It's not as important as the work of the family. For the work of the kingdom is in with the family. Came up with a new term with our family. As a family, we will sacrifice. But we will not sacrifice our family." [39:12] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If we're going to fulfill the Great Commission, I believe we have to focus or refocus on youth. As individuals and as a church. Why? There you go. Wow, thank you. For three reasons. Number one, two out of three people who come to Christ will do so before the age of? That's the lowest stat I could find." [24:33] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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