Embracing the Word: Cultivating a Fruitful Mindset
Summary
### Summary
Today, we are thrilled to announce that Carrie has joined our staff in a part-time capacity to oversee missions, outreach, and discipleship. Carrie, a licensed minister with the Assemblies of God, has been a pivotal part of our church from the beginning. We are excited about the momentum God is building in our church and believe Carrie will play a crucial role in our journey forward.
As we embark on a new series called "Kingdom Stories," I want to challenge you to read the Gospels this summer. The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—offer unique perspectives on Jesus' life and ministry. Whether you are a new believer or still exploring your faith, reading these accounts will help you get to know Jesus better. Start with Matthew, but don't be discouraged by the long list of names in the first chapter. Move on to Mark, which offers Peter's perspective, then to Luke, a detailed account from a learned Greek, and finally to John, who provides a unique take on Jesus' life.
In Matthew 13, Jesus uses parables to explain the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is about the presence, rule, and reign of God in our lives. Jesus, the greatest communicator, used familiar stories to explain these profound truths. Today, we looked at the parable of the sower, which illustrates different mindsets people have when they encounter the Word of God.
The parable describes four types of soil, representing different mindsets: the surface-level mindset, the shallow mindset, the distracted mindset, and the fruitful mindset. The surface-level mindset hears the Word but doesn't understand it, allowing the enemy to snatch it away. The shallow mindset receives the Word with joy but falls away when problems arise. The distracted mindset allows the worries of life and the lure of wealth to choke the Word, preventing it from bearing fruit. Finally, the fruitful mindset hears, understands, and seeks to apply the Word, producing a bountiful harvest.
To cultivate a fruitful mindset, we must understand the potential, preparation, and purpose of the seed, which is the Word of God. Like the coffee bean, the Word of God has immense potential if we allow it to transform us. We must prepare the seed by meditating on it, much like a lion growls in satisfaction over its prey. Finally, the purpose of the seed is not just for our benefit but to be shared with others, multiplying its impact.
### Key Takeaways
1. Understanding the Potential of the Seed: The Word of God is not just any book; it is living and active, capable of transforming our lives if we allow it. We should read the Bible not just for information but for transformation, letting it change us from the inside out. [54:04]
2. The Importance of Preparation: Just as coffee beans go through a process of drying, roasting, and grinding to become the coffee we enjoy, the Word of God must be meditated upon and internalized. This involves reading, studying, and reflecting on Scripture to truly understand and apply it. [57:00]
3. The Purpose of the Seed: The ultimate goal of engaging with the Word of God is to share it with others. By living out the teachings of the Bible, we can impact those around us, multiplying the effect of God's Word in our communities. [01:08:48]
4. Different Mindsets Toward the Word: The parable of the sower illustrates four mindsets: surface-level, shallow, distracted, and fruitful. Each mindset affects how we receive and apply the Word of God. Striving for a fruitful mindset involves actively seeking to understand and live out God's Word. [49:39]
5. Meditation as a Spiritual Discipline: The Hebrew word "haggah" means to meditate deeply, akin to a lion growling in satisfaction over its prey. This form of meditation involves chewing on the Word of God, letting it sink deep into our hearts and minds, and allowing it to transform us. [01:01:27]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[31:55] - Introduction of Carrie
[33:24] - Summer Challenge: Read the Gospels
[37:12] - Understanding the Kingdom of God
[41:20] - Parable of the Sower
[44:02] - Surface-Level Mindset
[46:43] - Shallow Mindset
[48:10] - Distracted Mindset
[49:39] - Fruitful Mindset
[51:09] - Potential of the Seed
[57:00] - Preparation of the Seed
[01:08:48] - Purpose of the Seed
[01:09:27] - Meditation Exercise: Psalm 1
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Matthew 13:1-23 (Parable of the Sower)
- Psalm 1:1-3
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the four types of soil described in the Parable of the Sower, and what do they represent? ([41:20])
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the coffee bean analogy in understanding the Word of God? ([51:09])
3. How does Jesus describe the fruitful mindset in Matthew 13:23? ([49:39])
4. What does the Hebrew word "haggah" mean, and how is it used in the context of meditating on God's Word? ([01:01:27])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus used parables, like the Parable of the Sower, to explain the Kingdom of God? ([40:04])
2. How can understanding the potential of the seed (the Word of God) change the way we approach reading the Bible? ([54:04])
3. What are some practical ways to prepare the seed (the Word of God) in our lives, similar to the process of preparing coffee beans? ([57:00])
4. How does the concept of "haggah" (meditating deeply) differ from simply reading the Bible, and why is it important for spiritual growth? ([01:01:27])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current mindset towards the Word of God. Do you identify more with the surface-level, shallow, distracted, or fruitful mindset? What steps can you take to cultivate a more fruitful mindset? ([49:39])
2. The sermon challenges us to read the Gospels this summer. How can you incorporate this challenge into your daily routine? What obstacles might you face, and how can you overcome them? ([33:24])
3. Think about a time when you read the Bible for information rather than transformation. How can you shift your focus to allow the Word of God to change you from the inside out? ([54:04])
4. The sermon mentioned the importance of sharing the Word of God with others. Identify one person in your life with whom you can share a Bible verse or a lesson from your reading this week. ([01:08:48])
5. How can you create more margin and space in your life to meditate on God's Word, avoiding the distractions that often crowd out spiritual growth? ([48:10])
6. Reflect on Psalm 1:2-3. How can you delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night in your current season of life? ([01:09:27])
7. The sermon used the analogy of a lion growling in satisfaction over its prey to describe deep meditation on God's Word. How can you practice this kind of deep, satisfying meditation in your daily Bible reading? ([01:01:27])
Devotional
### Day 1: The Transformative Power of God's Word
The Word of God is not just any book; it is living and active, capable of transforming our lives if we allow it. When we read the Bible, we should not approach it merely for information but for transformation. The Scriptures have the power to change us from the inside out, shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and actions to align with God's will. This transformative potential is like a seed that, when planted in good soil, can grow and produce a bountiful harvest in our lives.
Understanding the potential of the Word of God means recognizing its ability to bring about profound change. It is not enough to simply read the Bible; we must let it penetrate our hearts and minds, allowing it to challenge and reshape us. As we engage with Scripture, we should be open to the ways it can transform our character, relationships, and daily living. By doing so, we allow the Word to fulfill its purpose in our lives, leading us to become more like Christ. [54:04]
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV): "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
Reflection: How can you approach your Bible reading this week with a mindset of seeking transformation rather than just information? What specific area of your life do you need God's Word to transform?
### Day 2: Preparing Our Hearts for God's Word
Just as coffee beans go through a process of drying, roasting, and grinding to become the coffee we enjoy, the Word of God must be meditated upon and internalized. This involves reading, studying, and reflecting on Scripture to truly understand and apply it. Preparation is key to unlocking the full potential of God's Word in our lives. Without proper preparation, we may miss the depth and richness of what God wants to reveal to us.
To prepare our hearts for God's Word, we must take time to meditate on it, much like a lion growls in satisfaction over its prey. This form of meditation involves chewing on the Word, letting it sink deep into our hearts and minds. By doing so, we allow the Scriptures to shape our thoughts and actions, leading to a more profound and lasting impact. As we prepare our hearts, we create fertile soil for the Word to take root and grow, producing a fruitful harvest in our lives. [57:00]
Psalm 119:15-16 (ESV): "I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word."
Reflection: What steps can you take to better prepare your heart for engaging with God's Word? How can you incorporate meditation on Scripture into your daily routine?
### Day 3: Sharing the Word with Others
The ultimate goal of engaging with the Word of God is to share it with others. By living out the teachings of the Bible, we can impact those around us, multiplying the effect of God's Word in our communities. The purpose of the seed, which is the Word of God, is not just for our benefit but to be shared with others, spreading its transformative power far and wide.
As we internalize and live out the Word, we become conduits of God's truth and love to those around us. Our actions, words, and attitudes can reflect the teachings of Scripture, drawing others to Christ. By sharing the Word, we fulfill its purpose and contribute to the growth of God's Kingdom. This multiplication effect can lead to a ripple effect, where the impact of God's Word extends beyond our immediate circles and into the broader community. [01:08:48]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the message of God's Word? How can you intentionally share the love and truth of Scripture with them this week?
### Day 4: Cultivating a Fruitful Mindset
The parable of the sower illustrates four mindsets: surface-level, shallow, distracted, and fruitful. Each mindset affects how we receive and apply the Word of God. Striving for a fruitful mindset involves actively seeking to understand and live out God's Word. The fruitful mindset hears, understands, and seeks to apply the Word, producing a bountiful harvest.
To cultivate a fruitful mindset, we must be intentional in our approach to Scripture. This means not only hearing the Word but also understanding and applying it in our daily lives. We must guard against distractions and shallow engagement, ensuring that the Word takes deep root in our hearts. By doing so, we create an environment where the Word can flourish, leading to spiritual growth and maturity. [49:39]
Luke 8:15 (ESV): "As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience."
Reflection: What steps can you take to move from a surface-level or distracted mindset to a fruitful mindset? How can you ensure that the Word of God takes deep root in your heart?
### Day 5: The Discipline of Meditation
The Hebrew word "haggah" means to meditate deeply, akin to a lion growling in satisfaction over its prey. This form of meditation involves chewing on the Word of God, letting it sink deep into our hearts and minds, and allowing it to transform us. Meditation is a spiritual discipline that helps us internalize and apply the truths of Scripture.
By meditating on God's Word, we allow it to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. This deep reflection helps us to understand the deeper meanings and applications of Scripture, leading to a more profound and lasting impact. As we meditate on the Word, we create space for God to speak to us and guide us in our daily lives. This discipline is essential for spiritual growth and transformation. [01:01:27]
Joshua 1:8 (ESV): "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
Reflection: How can you incorporate the discipline of meditation into your daily routine? What specific passage of Scripture will you meditate on this week, and how do you hope it will transform you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Here's my challenge for you this summer. As we move into July and into the month of August, I want to double dog dare you to read the Gospels this summer. Now, if you're like, okay, the Gospels, you got to give me more information. The Bible is divided into two parts. The majority of the Bible in most of our Bibles that we look at are what we call the Jewish Scriptures, the Old Testament. Sometimes we call Covenant, and then there's the New Covenant or the New Testament, and the beginning of the New Testament are the four Gospels, and just to explain these real quickly because sometimes, again, we're intimidated by all this. The Gospels are simply accounts of Jesus' life and ministry, so if you want to get to know Jesus better, maybe you've recently made a commitment to follow Jesus, and you're like, okay, I want to get to know this person that I'm following, or maybe for you, you're not even there yet. Like, you're kicking the tires. You're trying to figure out what you believe about God and the Bible and Jesus and all those types of things. Even for you, I want to challenge you to read the Gospels." [33:24] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The kingdom of God, first of all, a kingdom. Think about an earthly kingdom. So think about a king ruling over a domain, right? Like, first of all, if you think about a kingdom, the most important part of the kingdom is the king, right? In fact, a kingdom without a king is dumb, right? D-O-M, right? Dumb. And so you've got it, the king is the most important part of the kingdom. So when we think about the kingdom of God, the very first thing that we think of is the presence of God, right? So the kingdom of God is wherever the king is, wherever his presence is. But on top of that, maybe think of the kingdom of God in this way. It's the rule and the reign of God." [37:12] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "He really does love you. He really does care about you flourishing and being fruitful and being fulfilled. And so, in the kingdom of God, it's about us going, God, I want your presence, and I want you to rule and reign in my life. I want you to call the shots. Whatever you want me to do, I want to say yes to you and to your kingdom, right?" [40:04] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I promise you that you will fall in love with Jesus more and more, and I think sometimes like we get so like, you know, we get so into the weeds of religion, and denomination, and pastors, and but biblical author, or not biblical authors, but modern day authors, and all this stuff. Sometimes it's good just to, let's just go back to Jesus, and to see who he is, and what he had to say, and why he had to say that." [36:00] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The seed represents the Word of God, the message of the kingdom of God. And Jesus says, you know, this message is scattered. This message is broadcast, and some people hear it, but they don't really hear it. And so Jesus says, some people hear it, and other people hear it, and they lean in, and they become curious, and they begin to seek out what is the meaning of it." [44:02] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "So Jesus says, hey, this seed, it represents those who hear, but they're not really hearing. Right? They're listening, but they're not really listening. And the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts, and it's as if that conversation never even happened. And we've all, unfortunately, experienced that in our human relationships. The same is true in our relationship with our Heavenly Father. And so He wants to say to us through His Word, and we read it, but we don't really read it. Have you ever had a moment maybe where you've been reading Scripture, you've been a good little Christian, you're doing your Scripture reading, and like 15 minutes later after you closed your Bible, you're like, what did I even read today? Like, I don't even remember what I read. What is that? I was reading, but I wasn't really reading. I wasn't really paying attention." [45:18] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I think one of the important things of having a fruitful mindset is understanding the potential of God's Word. That when we see God's Word, we don't just see it as a book. We see it as, man, this is God's Word, and it has the potential, if I will allow it, to change me. I remember it was a number of years ago that I kind of had a switch. So many years I would read God's Word, but I was reading God's Word for information instead of reading God's Word for transformation. I was reading God's Word so I could know a lot about the Bible, maybe do really good in Bible trivia, maybe allow pride to well up and, oh, I know more about the Bible than this person knows about the Bible. Can I tell you, that is exactly the worst way to read the Bible. We don't read the Bible primarily for information. We read the Bible primarily for transformation. I want this book to change me. I need this book to change me. My wife needs this book to change me. My kids need this book to change me. This church, you are hoping that this book is changing you. You are hoping that this book is changing you. You are changing me, right?" [55:31] (74 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The purpose of the seed, listen, the purpose of God's word is not just for me to read it and for me. You know, all over it and chew it up. The purpose, the purpose is for me to share God's word. How do I share God's word? Well, by living it out, by doing it, right? James says, don't just be hearers of the word, but be doers of the word. One of the ways that I meditate on God's word is I begin to, okay, how can I put this into action? How do I need to pray differently? How do I need to act differently? What, what, what are the adjustments that I need to make in my life?" [01:08:06] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The distracted mindset is a mindset of our age, of our time. Finally, we have number four, the fruitful mindset. Jesus says in verse 23, the seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's Word. Again, in the Greek, it's about wanting to hear and understand. It's about seeking to hear and understand. They truly, they seek to hear and understand God's Word, and they produce a harvest of 30, 60, or even 100 times as much as has been planted. And here's what I know to be true about you, because I know it's true of me. Like, I want my life to count. I want my life to matter. I don't want to get to the end of my life, and for her to have that thought of, what a waste." [49:39] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So Jesus says this in verse 20. He says, the seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy, but since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. So this seed is not like the first soil. It actually makes its way into the soil. It takes root. It springs up, but immediately it wilts and it dies because of the presence of rocks underneath the surface of the soil. They receive the message with joy. There's great enthusiasm. Maybe there's great emotion. Maybe there's even, tears, you know, like, and, oh, I finally have clarity in my life. I finally have purpose. I finally understand. Like, my eyes are finally open, but because of the presence of problems or persecution, they immediately wilt. At the first sign of opposition, they drop out." [46:43] (62 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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