Embracing the Unseen: A Legacy of Faith and Service

 

Summary

In our gathering today, we reflected on the life and legacy of a beloved member of our community, who was deeply prophetic and left us with a powerful message. Her life was a testament to the unseen work of God, the 99% that happens behind the scenes, which is the true heart of our ministry. She left a shofar with a blue ribbon on the altar, a significant symbol that aligns with the Feast of Trumpets, a divine orchestration that was not pre-planned but deeply meaningful. This act reminds us of the spiritual significance of sound and music, and how God uses these elements to communicate with us.

We also took time to acknowledge the tireless dedication of our leadership team and the congregation. Our ministry is not just a job; it is a way of life that integrates into every aspect of our existence. This commitment is what sets us apart and allows us to accomplish monumental things for the Kingdom of God. We are a family, imperfect yet authentic, and our love for one another is the foundation of our community.

The vision God has given us is vast, and at times it seemed impossible. Yet, through faith and perseverance, we have seen His plans come to fruition. Our ministry is a platform for everyone to serve and fulfill their God-given purpose. We are an army of believers, united in love and service, and our impact is being noticed by others.

As we look to the future, we are excited about the potential for growth and expansion. God is opening doors for us to be a hub of unity and collaboration, not just within our church but across the region. We are called to be a place where leaders can come together to strategize and advance the Kingdom. This is a transformational work that will change not only us but also the society around us.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Unseen Work of God: Our beloved member's life reminds us that the true heart of ministry often lies in the unseen, behind-the-scenes work. This is where God moves powerfully, shaping lives and communities in ways that are not always visible but deeply impactful. [41:04]

2. The Significance of the Shofar: The shofar left on the altar symbolizes the spiritual significance of sound and music in God's communication with us. It aligns with the Feast of Trumpets, highlighting the divine orchestration in our lives and the importance of being attuned to God's voice. [44:54]

3. Commitment to Ministry: Our leadership and congregation are deeply committed to the ministry, integrating it into every aspect of life. This dedication is what enables us to accomplish monumental things for God's Kingdom, setting us apart as a unique and authentic community. [48:17]

4. Faith and Vision: Despite the vastness of the vision God has given us, faith and perseverance have brought it to fruition. Our ministry serves as a platform for everyone to fulfill their God-given purpose, demonstrating the power of unity and love in action. [01:43:19]

5. Transformational Impact: The work we are doing is not just changing us but also the society around us. We are creating a place for leaders to strategize and influence governance, leading to a transformation in societal norms and advancing the Kingdom of God. [01:57:05]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[41:04] - The Unseen Work of God
[41:58] - The Significance of the Shofar
[42:51] - A Good Death
[43:53] - Embracing Sound and Frequency
[44:54] - Divine Orchestration
[47:01] - Honoring Debbie
[48:17] - Commitment to Ministry
[01:24:43] - Recognizing the Community
[01:29:14] - Christianity's Resurgence
[01:31:44] - A Big Dream from God
[01:43:19] - Faith and Vision
[01:45:35] - Ministry and Community
[01:48:52] - Future Potential
[01:51:11] - Serving with Love
[01:57:05] - Transformational Impact

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:

1. Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
2. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ and its many parts.
3. Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

---

Observation Questions:

1. What was the significance of the shofar with a blue ribbon left on the altar, and how did it relate to the Feast of Trumpets? [44:54]

2. How did the sermon describe the unseen work of God in the life of the beloved community member? [41:04]

3. What role does the leadership team play in the ministry, according to the sermon? [48:17]

4. How is the vision for the ministry described, and what are some of the challenges mentioned in bringing it to fruition? [01:43:19]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. How does Romans 8:28 relate to the idea of a "good death" as mentioned in the sermon? What does it mean for all things to work together for good? [42:51]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that sound and music, like the shofar, are significant in God's communication with us? How does this align with biblical teachings? [44:54]

3. How does the sermon illustrate the concept of the Body of Christ from 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, particularly in terms of community and service? [01:24:43]

4. What does Hebrews 11:1 suggest about the faith and vision needed to accomplish the ministry's goals, as discussed in the sermon? [01:43:19]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you experienced the unseen work of God in your life. How did it shape your faith and understanding of His purpose? [41:04]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being attuned to God's voice through sound and music. How can you incorporate this practice into your daily spiritual life? [44:54]

3. Consider the level of commitment described by the leadership team. How can you integrate your faith into every aspect of your life, as they do? [48:17]

4. The sermon speaks of a vast vision that seemed impossible. What is a vision or dream you have that requires faith and perseverance? How can you take steps toward it this week? [01:43:19]

5. The sermon highlights the transformational impact of the ministry on society. What is one way you can contribute to positive change in your community? [01:57:05]

6. How can you support the unity and collaboration within your church or community, as described in the sermon? What practical steps can you take to foster this environment? [01:48:52]

7. Reflect on the idea of being part of an "army of believers." How can you actively participate in your church's mission and vision? What specific role can you play? [01:45:35]

Devotional

Day 1: The Hidden Hand of God
The unseen work of God is often the most profound, shaping lives and communities in ways that are not immediately visible. This hidden work is the true heart of ministry, where God moves powerfully behind the scenes. It is a reminder that the most significant transformations often occur in the quiet, unnoticed moments of life. As we reflect on the life of a beloved community member, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's unseen hand, knowing that He is always at work, even when we cannot see it. [41:04]

"For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (2 Corinthians 4:6, ESV)

Reflection: Can you identify a moment in your life where you felt God's presence in an unexpected or unseen way? How can you cultivate a deeper trust in His hidden work today?


Day 2: The Sound of Divine Communication
The shofar left on the altar serves as a powerful symbol of the spiritual significance of sound and music in God's communication with us. It aligns with the Feast of Trumpets, highlighting the divine orchestration in our lives and the importance of being attuned to God's voice. This act reminds us that God often speaks to us through unexpected means, and we must be open to hearing His voice in the sounds and rhythms of our daily lives. [44:54]

"And the Lord answered me: 'Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.'" (Habakkuk 2:2-3, ESV)

Reflection: What are some ways you can become more attuned to God's voice in your daily life? How can you use music or sound as a tool for spiritual reflection and connection with God?


Day 3: A Life Integrated with Ministry
The commitment to ministry is not just a job but a way of life that integrates into every aspect of existence. This dedication is what enables monumental accomplishments for God's Kingdom, setting the community apart as unique and authentic. The leadership and congregation's tireless dedication is a testament to the power of living a life fully devoted to God's work. [48:17]

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24, ESV)

Reflection: How can you integrate your faith and commitment to ministry into your daily routine? What practical steps can you take to ensure that your work and life reflect your dedication to God's Kingdom?


Day 4: Faith in the Face of Vast Vision
Despite the vastness of the vision God has given, faith and perseverance have brought it to fruition. The ministry serves as a platform for everyone to fulfill their God-given purpose, demonstrating the power of unity and love in action. This journey of faith is a testament to the transformative power of believing in God's promises and working together to achieve His plans. [01:43:19]

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation." (Hebrews 11:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: What is a vision or dream that God has placed on your heart? How can you take steps in faith today to move towards its fulfillment, trusting in God's timing and provision?


Day 5: Transforming Society Through Unity
The work being done is not just changing the community but also the society around it. By creating a place for leaders to strategize and influence governance, the ministry is leading to a transformation in societal norms and advancing the Kingdom of God. This transformational impact is a call to action for believers to unite in love and service, working together to bring about positive change in the world. [01:57:05]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: How can you contribute to the transformational work of your community and society? What specific actions can you take to promote unity and collaboration among believers in your area?

Quotes



It wasn't just what was happening up here. It was what's happening in the 99 % behind the scenes. That's what she was experiencing, seeing that's what we're all experiencing. You know what we're doing here today. This is great. I love this. It's like the face of the ministry. But this is the heart of the ministry. [00:41:11] (22 seconds)


It's we're throwing the baby out with the bath water and it is significant. If we understand the significance of it, we'll desire for it to be done in our lives. The shofar. Is an instrument that is very spiritual. It was used as talked about, and there's a reason why it was. And I believe it was, there was a reason why she brought up there and God had led us to some of the knowledge of that when we very first started the barn. [00:44:54] (29 seconds)


And the leadership team i mean like i'll just tell you and i'm not saying that we're better than anyone we're not better than anyone and i'm not saying that other ones don't do this but like i just know like just giving you another glimpse into the leadership team ministry never shuts off for us correct never it is integrated into our home life it's our hobby it's our life it's our life it's our life it's our life it's our it's everything there's no time for hunting it's what we do there's no other hardly any other extracurricular it's in every when we go on date nights it's ministry it's your hearts it's what god's it's ever like it never shuts off sometimes that can be very frustrating and i'm i'm telling you be confident the leadership of this ministry that is i'm telling you that's that's who we're not better in any way shape or form could not do it without all of us could not do it without each other but i'm telling you those who are here all the time they're serious about it this isn't just like they're coming in punching the clock they do their stuff they leave and you know their minds off of it [01:22:39] (79 seconds)


and i and andrew roscoe i'm going to tell you something about andrew roscoe andrew roscoe is absolutely apostolic he sees the big picture i'm telling you that dude sees things that nobody else sees karen i can relate to him um and we love him very much i just want to say if i don't think that we could look around this room and say i'm not going to i don't think you could look around this room and not i know all of you are serving there's a ton of people who are not here and they are all serving i'm telling you in some capacity some way shape or form i think 80 of the church here is actively involved in serving in the church in some form or capacity through all the different types of the parts and pieces of the ministry we've been a part of church that had a thousand members on the books would roll through like six to seven hundred people on a weekend and i'm telling you skeleton crew was doing all the behind the scenes this church i've never seen a church like this it you know people put family up as a marketing thing on a billboard it's not like what we have family here are we doing it perfect no are we perfect no we're not perfect we all are messed up in so many ways it's unbelievable we we said we at one point we're going to call this the church of the misfit toys and and it's very real and authentic and transparent and there is real love here and there's real forgiveness and it's not easy and trust me you know people people gotta love me i go home at like i don't know i don't they're doing it keeps me going i'm like because i know you there's genuine love towards me and [01:26:43] (124 seconds)


this is incredible the synopsis is god gave us a big dream and i mean it was like the first year and it was so big i can't and i've shared this before so i'm just going to share it again or but i'm going to share it again it was so big i can't tell you how many times i would look at where we were at and i was like and i would see this little bitty thing like a david in the field and i would say this is stupid this is ridiculous we're never going to be able to accomplish why are we even doing this? And it would be like the next year and then the next year. And it would be like, this vision that God gave us, [01:42:32] (45 seconds)


we're not going to be able to accomplish it with where we're at. We're like this big, and this thing is like this regional mandate. Okay, this was like first year. This is first year. Okay? Okay, you don't understand. This is from where we were at in a barn. It was like, how? [01:43:19] (27 seconds)


We needed to buy those tents. Those tents were not cheap. They were very expensive. We had to put a parking lot in in the church. It was expensive for the time where we were at. Okay? Compared to where we were at, what we had to spend was like nuts. And I'll be honest. It really stretched my faith. Like, we didn't have, I'm going to tell you, what we're spending here compared to what, it's a whole other level. It's happened. [01:44:35] (29 seconds)


The ministry endeavors are the core centric part of everything that we're doing here. All of the sanctuary at the barn, all of its possibilities, all of the opportunity, which are literally endless corporate resheets. All the things we could do are to fund the work of the ministry. Obviously us getting the [01:47:07] (21 seconds)


A Friday night, light ministries, Friday night, light ministries is the parent of everything. The heart that all the way original heart of what was there. Is to create a place to be able to help other churches come into unity together, to be able to advance the kingdom in the region. We're not going to do what they do. [01:47:48] (22 seconds)


What's happening here in this body is a transformational change that's not only going to be changing us. It's also going to be changing society. It's also going to be changing the way we live. It's also going to be changing society around us. I'm telling you what's happening here on this property, what's coming literally is a changing of the mindsets for governance. [01:57:05] (22 seconds)


Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Jan 05, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?