Empowered by God's Word: Living Out Our Faith
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the power of God's word and the calling He has placed on each of our lives. We began by acknowledging the presence of overcomers among us—those who have faced and conquered trials through faith. The friendships we keep are crucial in our spiritual journey, as they influence our values and actions. We prayed for those feeling heavy-hearted, reminding them that being in the house of God and around fellow overcomers can lift their spirits and burdens.
We delved into the significance of the Word of God, which is described in Hebrews 4:12 as quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. The Word of God not only created the universe but also brings life to our spirits. We are reminded that we were dead in our trespasses and sins, but through the powerful Word of God, we are born again and made alive in Christ.
The sermon emphasized the importance of listening to God's still small voice rather than waiting for supernatural phenomena. Many of us are hiding in caves of fear, procrastination, or inferiority, but God calls us to step out and fulfill our divine purpose. We are reminded that our lives are living sermons, and our actions and words are a testament to God's love and power.
We also discussed the role of evangelists and teachers within the church. Evangelists are called to gather souls, while teachers are responsible for grounding and establishing new believers in their faith. A special commissioning prayer was held for those called to these roles, emphasizing the heavy yet fulfilling responsibility of answering God's call.
Finally, we were encouraged to trust in God's plan and to remember that His Word is powerful and effective. We are called to live out our faith boldly, knowing that God has anointed us for a specific purpose.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Community and Overcoming: Being around fellow believers who have overcome trials can uplift and encourage us. The friendships we keep are vital in our spiritual journey, as they influence our values and actions. Surround yourself with godly people to help you stay on the right path. [37:37]
2. The Transformative Power of God's Word: The Word of God is not just a text; it is a living, powerful force that brings life to our spirits. We were dead in our sins, but through the Word, we are born again and made alive in Christ. This transformation is a testament to the power and grace of God. [40:36]
3. Listening to the Still Small Voice: Often, we look for grand signs and wonders to confirm God's calling, but He often speaks in a still small voice. We must be attentive and obedient to His subtle promptings, stepping out of our caves of fear and procrastination to fulfill our divine purpose. [01:08:05]
4. Living as a Sermon: Our lives are living sermons, and our actions and words are a testament to God's love and power. We must live in a way that reflects the teachings of Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and truth to those around us. [01:04:07]
5. The Role of Evangelists and Teachers: Evangelists are called to gather souls, while teachers are responsible for grounding and establishing new believers in their faith. Both roles are crucial for the growth and health of the church. Answering this call requires dedication and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. [01:21:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[37:37] - The Importance of Godly Friendships
[38:50] - Prayer for the Heavy-Hearted
[40:36] - The Power of God's Word
[47:20] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[48:32] - The Precision of God's Word
[49:35] - Acknowledging the Social Media Team
[52:16] - The Role of the Internet in Modern Evangelism
[55:51] - The Creation and Rebirth of Humanity
[57:03] - The Temporary Nature of Our Earthly Bodies
[58:29] - Being Born Again by the Word of God
[01:00:07] - The Generational Curse of Sin
[01:01:02] - God's Purpose for Your Life
[01:02:04] - Sitting on the Other Side of Your Own Pulpit
[01:04:07] - Living as a Sermon
[01:05:42] - Trusting God in Testing Times
[01:07:25] - The Still Small Voice of God
[01:09:56] - Responding to God's Call
[01:12:00] - The Dependence on the Holy Spirit
[01:14:25] - The Power of the King's Word
[01:16:39] - The King of Kings
[01:17:37] - The Powerful Word of God
[01:18:49] - Commissioning of Evangelists and Teachers
[01:21:59] - The Responsibility of Evangelists and Teachers
[01:26:15] - The Importance of Answering God's Call
[01:35:13] - Commissioning Prayer
[01:38:13] - Rejoicing for the Harvest
[01:39:47] - Closing Remarks and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 4:12 - "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
2. 1 Kings 19:11-13 - "And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?"
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 4:12, what are the characteristics of the Word of God?
2. In 1 Kings 19:11-13, what were the different phenomena that Elijah experienced before hearing the still small voice of God?
3. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of godly friendships in our spiritual journey? ([37:37])
4. How does the sermon describe the role of evangelists and teachers within the church? ([01:21:59])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the description of the Word of God in Hebrews 4:12 relate to the idea of being spiritually reborn and made alive in Christ? ([40:36])
2. Why might God choose to speak in a still small voice rather than through grand supernatural phenomena, as seen in 1 Kings 19:11-13? ([01:08:05])
3. What does it mean for our lives to be "living sermons," and how can our actions and words serve as a testament to God's love and power? ([01:04:07])
4. How can the roles of evangelists and teachers complement each other in the growth and health of the church? ([01:21:59])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current friendships. Are they helping you grow spiritually, or are they pulling you away from your faith? How can you seek out more godly friendships? ([37:37])
2. Think about a time when you felt spiritually dead or distant from God. How did the Word of God bring life and renewal to your spirit? ([40:36])
3. Are there areas in your life where you are waiting for a grand sign from God instead of listening to His still small voice? How can you become more attentive to His subtle promptings? ([01:08:05])
4. In what ways can you live out your faith more boldly, knowing that your life is a living sermon? What specific actions can you take this week to reflect Christ's teachings? ([01:04:07])
5. If you feel called to a specific role within the church, such as an evangelist or teacher, what steps can you take to prepare and respond to that calling? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit in this process? ([01:21:59])
6. How can you support the evangelists and teachers in your church community? Are there practical ways you can assist them in their ministry?
7. Identify one person in your life who might be feeling heavy-hearted or burdened. How can you offer them encouragement and support, drawing from the sermon’s message about the power of community and overcoming? ([38:50])
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Community and Overcoming
Being around fellow believers who have overcome trials can uplift and encourage us. The friendships we keep are vital in our spiritual journey, as they influence our values and actions. Surround yourself with godly people to help you stay on the right path. [37:37]
The community of believers is a powerful source of encouragement and strength. When we surround ourselves with those who have faced and conquered trials through faith, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and power. These friendships are not just social connections; they are spiritual lifelines that help us stay grounded in our faith. The people we choose to spend time with can either uplift us or lead us astray, so it is crucial to seek out godly friendships that will support and encourage us in our walk with Christ.
Being in the house of God and around fellow overcomers can lift our spirits and burdens. When we gather together, we share our victories and struggles, creating an environment where we can grow and thrive spiritually. This sense of community is essential for our spiritual well-being, as it provides a support system that helps us navigate the challenges of life with faith and hope.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: Think of a godly friend who has been a source of encouragement in your life. How can you strengthen this friendship and support each other in your spiritual journeys?
Day 2: The Transformative Power of God's Word
The Word of God is not just a text; it is a living, powerful force that brings life to our spirits. We were dead in our sins, but through the Word, we are born again and made alive in Christ. This transformation is a testament to the power and grace of God. [40:36]
The Word of God is described in Hebrews 4:12 as quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. It is not merely a collection of ancient writings but a living and active force that has the power to transform lives. Through the Word, the universe was created, and through the Word, we are given new life in Christ. When we were dead in our trespasses and sins, it was the powerful Word of God that brought us to life, making us new creations in Christ.
This transformation is a testament to the power and grace of God. It is through His Word that we are born again and made alive in Christ. The Word of God has the power to penetrate our hearts, convict us of sin, and lead us to repentance and faith. As we immerse ourselves in the Word, we experience its transformative power, shaping us into the image of Christ and equipping us for every good work.
1 Peter 1:23 (ESV): "Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God."
Reflection: How has the Word of God transformed your life? Spend time today reflecting on a specific scripture that has had a significant impact on your spiritual journey.
Day 3: Listening to the Still Small Voice
Often, we look for grand signs and wonders to confirm God's calling, but He often speaks in a still small voice. We must be attentive and obedient to His subtle promptings, stepping out of our caves of fear and procrastination to fulfill our divine purpose. [01:08:05]
Many of us are waiting for supernatural phenomena to confirm God's calling in our lives, but God often speaks in a still small voice. This gentle whisper can be easily overlooked if we are not attentive and sensitive to His promptings. It is in the quiet moments of prayer and reflection that we can hear God's voice guiding and directing us. We must learn to be still and listen, trusting that God will speak to us in His perfect timing and way.
Fear, procrastination, and feelings of inferiority can keep us hiding in caves, preventing us from stepping out and fulfilling our divine purpose. God calls us to step out in faith, trusting that He will equip and empower us for the tasks He has set before us. By listening to His still small voice and being obedient to His promptings, we can overcome our fears and step into the fullness of God's plan for our lives.
1 Kings 19:12 (ESV): "And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper."
Reflection: What fears or doubts are keeping you from stepping out in faith? Spend time in quiet prayer today, asking God to help you hear His still small voice and give you the courage to act on His promptings.
Day 4: Living as a Sermon
Our lives are living sermons, and our actions and words are a testament to God's love and power. We must live in a way that reflects the teachings of Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and truth to those around us. [01:04:07]
Every believer's life is a living sermon, a testament to God's love and power. Our actions and words should reflect the teachings of Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and truth to those around us. When we live in a way that honors God, we become a powerful witness to His grace and mercy. Our lives can inspire others to seek a relationship with Christ and experience the transformative power of His love.
Living as a sermon means being intentional about our daily choices and interactions. It means showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, even when it is difficult. It means standing firm in our faith and being a light in the darkness. As we strive to live out our faith boldly, we become a living testimony of God's goodness and faithfulness, drawing others to Him.
Matthew 5:16 (ESV): "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: How can your actions and words today reflect the teachings of Christ? Think of one specific way you can be a beacon of hope and truth to someone in your life.
Day 5: The Role of Evangelists and Teachers
Evangelists are called to gather souls, while teachers are responsible for grounding and establishing new believers in their faith. Both roles are crucial for the growth and health of the church. Answering this call requires dedication and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. [01:21:59]
Within the church, evangelists and teachers play vital roles in the growth and health of the body of Christ. Evangelists are called to gather souls, sharing the gospel and leading people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Their passion for reaching the lost is essential for expanding the kingdom of God. On the other hand, teachers are responsible for grounding and establishing new believers in their faith. They provide the necessary instruction and guidance to help believers grow in their understanding of God's Word and live out their faith.
Answering the call to be an evangelist or teacher requires dedication and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. These roles come with significant responsibilities, as they involve leading and nurturing others in their spiritual journeys. It is important for those called to these roles to seek God's guidance and strength, trusting that He will equip them for the tasks He has set before them. By faithfully fulfilling their callings, evangelists and teachers contribute to the overall health and growth of the church.
Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV): "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."
Reflection: If you feel called to be an evangelist or teacher, how can you begin to prepare for this role? Spend time in prayer today, asking God to equip and guide you as you seek to fulfill His calling on your life.
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "And someone came in to service today that wasn't feeling like an overcomer. Heaviness of mind and or of heart. Feeling defeated or discouraged. Well, you came to the right place. I know your flesh wanted to lay in bed. But something... Something inside you said, I want to be an overcomer. I know some things are pressing against me right now or weighing on my mind or a heaviness. But let me go to the house of God because my steps had well nigh slipped until I went into the house of the Lord. And I remembered there. And so being around overcomers will help you to overcome. Every, every weight, every heaviness, every burden. His yoke is easy. His burden is light. And so I want the Holy Ghost to minister in a supernatural way." [38:50] (71 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Who shall separate us? Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Nothing and no one can separate us from the love of Christ." [41:19] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God is going to have a church. And that church is going to be a triumphant and a victorious church. Because it lives and moves and operates through the powerful word of God." [53:21] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God is going to have a harvest that is going to reach. He said the latter rain will be greater than the former rain. He's going to pour out a harvest and a revival in our hour, in our day. And he has called you and I to be a part of it." [54:22] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The powerful word of God came and said, I'm going to lift you up out of that sin. I'm going to birth you into my kingdom. And I'm going to begot you by my word. We are begotten by the word of God." [01:00:07] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The friendships you keep are critical. If you want to live a holy and a godly life, you can't hang out with carnal people, ungodly people. You're going to gravitate towards their thinking. And their values is going to impact your life." [37:37] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Sometimes you need to sit on the other side of your own pulpit. And the word of God that God gave you to minister to others. Sometimes you need to hear yourself. Because sometimes your mind can get discouraged. And sometimes your attitude can get off track. And sometimes your spirit can get out of whack. And things that you said that were words from God for someone else. You need to hear those words sometimes of correction and admonition yourself." [01:02:04] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Your life is a pulpit that you declare truth from. The words of your mouth and the actions of your heart. Are a pulpit that God will use to minister and speak to others in your life." [01:03:10] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God has called you. And you are not in the place of your calling. You're hiding out in all sorts of caves. Caves of fear. Caves of rebellion. Caves of procrastination. Caves of inferiority. All sorts of caves. Just as Elijah was hiding out in a cave. And you're looking for some supernatural phenomena to come. And propel you into a place. But God is looking for someone that will simply hear and obey. The still small voice of the spirit." [01:09:05] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The four most powerful words that a human could utter. Is what Simon said. When he said to Jesus in Luke 5. And 5. Master we have toiled all the night. And have taken nothing. Here they are the four most powerful words. Nevertheless at thy word." [01:11:16] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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