Embracing Unity and Holiness in Faith Community
Summary
Today, I shared a message titled "Called Higher," focusing on the themes of unity, peace, and the pursuit of holiness as outlined in the book of Hebrews. We began by acknowledging the absence of our pastors, expressing gratitude for their leadership and the faith they exemplify, particularly in challenging times. This set the stage for a deeper exploration of faith and community as we navigate a world often characterized by individualism and temporary satisfactions.
In the sermon, I painted a picture of a world marked by unity and peace, contrasting it with the reality of a culture that prioritizes individual desires over communal well-being. This cultural backdrop serves as a reminder of the high calling we have as followers of Jesus—to bring peace, pursue unity, and choose a better way repeatedly, knowing the eternal significance of our choices.
We delved into Hebrews, where the author addresses a community tempted to revert to old faith practices to avoid persecution. This passage calls us not to grow weary or shrink back but to remain confident in our pursuit of Jesus. This theme of perseverance is crucial, especially when faced with cultural pressures that could easily sway us from our faith path.
The sermon highlighted the importance of community in our spiritual journey. The biblical call to holiness is not just about personal sanctification but is deeply rooted in our interactions and relationships within the church body. We discussed how looking out for each other and striving for peace are not just idealistic goals but essential practices that reflect our commitment to living out our faith.
I shared personal anecdotes, including lessons from driving on icy roads taught by my father, which metaphorically illustrated how focusing on Jesus can redirect us from potential hazards in our spiritual journey. Just as focusing on a clear path can prevent accidents, fixing our eyes on Jesus guides us through life's challenges.
In conclusion, the message called each of us to higher standards of living in faith, community, and personal holiness. We were reminded that these efforts are not about achieving perfection but about progressing in our faith journey, continually responding to God's call to live out his kingdom here on earth.
### Key Takeaways
1. Community as a Reflection of Faith:
The pursuit of holiness is deeply intertwined with how we interact within our community. As we strive for peace and unity, these efforts reflect our closeness to Jesus and our commitment to his teachings. Living in peace with others isn't merely a suggestion; it's a directive that requires active effort and intentionality, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel in our daily lives. [41:50]
2. The High Cost of Temporary Comforts:
The story of Esau selling his birthright for temporary comfort serves as a powerful warning against the dangers of focusing on immediate gratification. This narrative encourages us to consider the long-term consequences of our choices and challenges us to think twice before pursuing fleeting pleasures at the expense of lasting blessings. [56:08]
3. Holiness Through Relationship:
Holiness is not achieved in isolation but through a dynamic relationship with Jesus and the community of believers. By engaging with and caring for one another, we not only uphold the teachings of Christ but also embody the very essence of the church as a sanctuary for growth and reconciliation. [52:02]
4. Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus:
In moments of uncertainty or temptation, the simple yet profound act of fixing our eyes on Jesus can redirect our path and focus. This practice is not about avoiding sin through sheer willpower but about continually orienting our lives towards Christ and his eternal kingdom. [01:07:57]
5. The Role of Faith in Cultural Engagement:
As believers, we are called not to passively navigate the culture but to actively engage with it in ways that reflect our faith. This involves challenging cultural norms that contradict biblical values and striving to model a lifestyle that honors God, even when it's countercultural. [37:39]
### Youtube Chapters
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [32:17] - Introduction and Acknowledgments
- [33:38] - The Contrast Between Cultural Values and Kingdom Values
- [35:16] - Exploring the Book of Hebrews
- [36:41] - The High Calling of Believers
- [41:50] - Community and Peace
- [52:02] - Pursuing Holiness in Community
- [56:08] - The Story of Esau and Temporary Comforts
- [01:00:10] - Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
- [01:07:57] - Concluding Thoughts and Worship Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 12:14-17 (ESV)
"Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no 'root of bitterness' springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears."
2. Galatians 6:9 (ESV)
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
3. Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
### Observation Questions
1. In Hebrews 12:14, what does it mean to "strive for peace with everyone"? How is this connected to the pursuit of holiness mentioned in the same verse?
2. What are the consequences of failing to obtain the grace of God as described in Hebrews 12:15?
3. Hebrews 12:16-17 discusses Esau's choice to sell his birthright. What was the immediate benefit Esau received, and what long-term consequences did he face?
4. According to Philippians 4:8, what types of things are believers encouraged to think about? How does this align with the themes of peace and holiness?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How might striving for peace with everyone impact a community's spiritual health and growth according to Hebrews 12:14?
2. In what ways can a 'root of bitterness' affect individual lives and the broader community as suggested in Hebrews 12:15?
3. Reflecting on Esau's story in Hebrews 12:16-17, what are the dangers of prioritizing immediate satisfaction over long-term blessings?
4. Considering Philippians 4:8, how can focusing our thoughts on things that are true, honorable, and pure influence our daily actions and decisions?
### Application Questions
1. Identify a relationship where you need to strive for peace this week. What specific steps will you take to initiate reconciliation or understanding?
2. Reflect on any 'root of bitterness' you might be holding onto. What practical steps can you take this week to address and resolve these feelings?
3. Think about a recent decision where you chose immediate gratification over long-term benefit. What can you learn from Esau's mistake, and how can you apply this lesson to future decisions?
4. Choose one attribute from Philippians 4:8 (e.g., truth, purity, commendability). What is one specific action you can take this week to embody this attribute in your personal or professional life?
Devotional
Day 1: Community Reflects Our Faith Journey
Community is not just a place we belong; it is a reflection of our faith in action. As believers, our interactions within our community should mirror the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing peace and unity. These efforts are not merely idealistic but are essential practices that demonstrate our commitment to living out the gospel. By actively participating in our church community, we embody the transformative power of Christ's love, which calls us to live in harmony with one another. This pursuit of communal well-being is a direct response to the divine call to reflect Jesus in every aspect of our lives. [41:50]
"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." (1 Peter 3:8 ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to strengthening unity and peace within your community this week?
Day 2: The High Cost of Temporary Comforts
Esau’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers of prioritizing immediate gratification over our spiritual inheritance. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to consider the long-term impact of our choices. Pursuing fleeting pleasures can often lead to missing out on the deeper, lasting blessings God has in store for us. This narrative challenges us to evaluate our priorities and to seek divine wisdom in making decisions that align with God’s eternal purposes rather than succumbing to momentary desires. [56:08]
"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" (Hebrews 13:5 ESV)
Reflection: What temporary comforts are you tempted to prioritize over your spiritual growth, and how can you begin to shift your focus?
Day 3: Holiness Through Relationship
Holiness is achieved through our ongoing relationship with Jesus and our engagement with the community of believers. This dynamic interaction helps us grow in faith and embody the principles Christ taught. By caring for one another and fostering relationships within the church, we not only uphold the teachings of Christ but also create a sanctuary where growth and reconciliation can flourish. This approach to holiness emphasizes that our spiritual journey is interconnected with how we relate to and support each other. [52:02]
"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: In what ways can you actively engage more deeply with your church community to foster both your and others' spiritual growth?
Day 4: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
In moments of uncertainty or temptation, focusing our attention on Jesus can profoundly influence our spiritual trajectory. This practice is essential not just for avoiding sin but for continually orienting our lives towards Christ and His kingdom. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, we navigate life's challenges with grace and wisdom, guided by His eternal perspective and not swayed by the transient distractions of the world. [01:07:57]
"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." (Hebrews 12:2 ESV)
Reflection: What specific distractions are hindering your focus on Jesus, and what practical steps can you take to redirect your gaze towards Him?
Day 5: The Role of Faith in Cultural Engagement
As believers, we are called to engage with our culture actively, not as passive observers but as representatives of God's kingdom. This involves challenging cultural norms that contradict biblical values and modeling a lifestyle that honors God. Our faith should influence how we interact with the world, striving to reflect Christ's love and truth in every situation, even when it means standing against the prevailing cultural currents. [37:39]
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2 ESV)
Reflection: How can you more effectively challenge cultural norms with your faith, and what is one area where you can begin to make a difference today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Because when we see God, we're changed. When we move towards him, it changes everything. And I just want to say, this doesn't make it easy. I want to go back to the icy road analogy because I've been in that position many times. And my dad's advice, you know, didn't actually allow me to, okay, I'm just going to let go and let it happen, I'll be fine. No, you're still, your car's spinning out. You're spinning your wheel. You're like, I could crash my car right now. You still feel the intensity. My heart still beats fast out of my chest. But I actually have the peace of mind and confidence in that moment. That I know what my dad told me, and I know what to do. Even as my heart is racing, I feel like, you know, I'm actually going to be okay." [01:07:09]
2. "Thank you. Thank you. Good morning. My husband asked me last night if I was nervous, and I was like, no, I have the peace of God. I feel so good. This morning, I'm nervous, so full disclosure. But I'm so excited to be sharing with you this morning. I feel incredibly honored. Our pastors, they are in Phoenix today soaking up the sun, and I am also grateful that they get to do that. Who else is grateful that our pastors get to rest today, right? They work so hard. They work so hard. And they pour so much. And their whole family. And so they're just resting, soaking up the sun." [32:17]
### Quotes for Members
1. "We're called to fix our eyes. I'm going to invite the worship team to come on up as we close here. What would happen in those moments if we actually just paused and looked to Jesus? Like, give it one minute. Think twice. If you remember that, kids. If you think you can't wait, think twice. Look to Jesus. Take a minute. So this is what happens when we fix our eyes." [01:00:10]
2. "The pursuit of holiness is a process, and it requires a relationship with God. A connection to the source. If to see him is to dwell with him and to walk closely with him, then the pursuit of a relationship with Jesus is actually how we pursue holiness. So what would it look like if we as a church actually stepped into this? Again, not just individually, but as a church. Spurring one another on in our home groups in these moments." [52:02]
3. "We're called to each other. And we see this throughout the passage. So it says that we are called to peace with everyone. We see that in verse 14, work at living in peace with everyone. And peace with others is actually a part of our pursuit of holiness, righteousness. It's the fruit of a life after Jesus. Thomas Schreiner writes that those who see the Lord are at peace with others. So he's saying that peace with others is actually fruit of our closeness with Jesus." [41:50]
4. "We're called to pause, to look to Jesus, to fix our eyes on him. Philippians 4 verse 8 says, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. We're called to think on purity because waiting for marriage is so, so worth it." [59:19]
5. "But we're called to fix our eyes on Jesus. Someone actually asked me recently if my husband and I waited. And I was like, wait, waited what, to kiss? Like, we didn't. We did kiss. But we didn't have sex until we got married. And I was like. Oh. I was so taken aback because of how highly we held that in our relationship. But I realized that that's not that abnormal. And again, this is not to bring shame. Like, God brings redemption for every story." [01:04:13]
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