Empowered to Multiply: The Call to Disciple-Making
Summary
In this sermon, I explored the profound theme of disciple-making, emphasizing the church's mission to multiply through faithful obedience to Christ's commission. The series, aptly titled "Multiply," aimed to invigorate the church to embrace its identity and purpose in the world.
The journey began with a reflection on the Great Commission as recounted in Matthew 28, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations. This foundational scripture set the stage for the entire series, underscoring the imperative of going forth to spread the Gospel. I delved into the five stages of disciple-making: proclamation, investigation, invitation, realization, and declaration. Each stage represents a critical step in the journey of bringing others to Christ and nurturing them to do the same.
A significant part of the sermon addressed the common misconceptions and fears associated with disciple-making. Many believers hesitate to share the Gospel, burdened by the false belief that the responsibility of conversion rests on their shoulders. I clarified that our role is not to convert but to proclaim. The Holy Spirit orchestrates the heart's transformation. This understanding should liberate us from the fear of rejection and the pressure of feeling inadequate for the task.
I used the example of Peter, pre and post-Holy Spirit, to illustrate the transformation that occurs when we rely on divine strength rather than our own. Before the Holy Spirit, Peter denied Christ out of fear. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he boldly proclaimed the Gospel, unaffected by potential repercussions. This transformation underscores the sermon's central message: we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to be witnesses of Christ, not by our might but by the Spirit's power.
The sermon series concluded with a call to persistent obedience and faithfulness in disciple-making. I emphasized that while we are not responsible for the growth of the seed, we are called to sow it diligently and leave the results to God. This principle was illustrated through the parable of the sower, where the growth of the seed is independent of the sower, who must simply scatter the seed faithfully.
### Key Takeaways
1. Disciple-Making is a Command, Not an Option
The Great Commission in Matthew 28 isn't merely a suggestion; it's a directive from Christ Himself. As followers of Jesus, we are called to extend His kingdom through disciple-making. This involves going beyond our comfort zones and trusting in the Holy Spirit to empower and lead us in this mission. The fear of inadequacy or rejection often hinders us, but we must remember that the presence of Christ emboldens us to face these challenges head-on. [42:15]
2. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Evangelism
We must recognize that our strength and courage to witness come from the Holy Spirit, not our personal capabilities. The transformation of Peter from a denier of Christ to a bold proclaimer of the Gospel is a testament to the Spirit's power. When we step out in obedience to make disciples, the Holy Spirit equips us with the boldness and the words to speak, ensuring that our efforts are not in vain. [49:05]
3. Separating Our Responsibility from God's Sovereignty
A significant barrier to disciple-making is the misconception that we are responsible for the conversion of souls. This misunderstanding can lead to unnecessary pressure and discouragement. Our responsibility is to faithfully proclaim the Gospel and leave the conversion to God, who works in the hearts of individuals through the Holy Spirit. This understanding frees us from the burden of feeling that the results of evangelism depend solely on our efforts. [52:07]
4. The Importance of Obedience in Disciple-Making
The act of going and making disciples is an act of obedience to Christ's command. While we are not responsible for the growth of the seed, our obedience in sowing it is crucial. The parable of the sower teaches us that the growth of the kingdom is God's work, but He requires us to do our part by scattering the seed. This obedience is what positions us to be used by God in expanding His kingdom. [55:14]
5. Empowerment Through Divine Presence and Authority
Jesus assures us of His continual presence and authority as we fulfill the Great Commission. This promise should embolden us to carry out our mission with confidence, knowing that we are backed by the highest authority. When we go in Jesus' name, we carry His authority, which overcomes all barriers and opposition. This divine empowerment is crucial for overcoming the fears and challenges associated with disciple-making. [01:23:05]
### Chapters
0:00 - Welcome
01:27:22 - The Power of the Holy Spirit in Disciple-Making
01:28:41 - Bold Proclamation Under Persecution
01:29:53 - Overcoming Fear with Holy Spirit Boldness
01:31:47 - The Role of Obedience in Disciple-Making
01:32:56 - Continual Commitment to Disciple-Making
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Multiply"
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission)
> "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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. Acts 1:7-8
> "He said to them: 'It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.'"
3. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
> "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."
#### Observation Questions
1. What command does Jesus give to His disciples in Matthew 28:18-20?
2. According to Acts 1:7-8, what will the disciples receive, and what will it enable them to do?
3. In 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, who is responsible for the growth of the seed that is planted and watered?
4. What are the five stages of disciple-making mentioned in the sermon? ([42:15])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 define the mission of the church? ([42:15])
2. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the process of disciple-making according to Acts 1:7-8 and the sermon? ([49:05])
3. How does understanding that God is responsible for the growth of the seed (1 Corinthians 3:6-7) change our approach to evangelism? ([52:07])
4. Why is it important to separate our responsibility from God's sovereignty in the context of disciple-making? ([47:47])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate to share the Gospel. How does knowing that the Holy Spirit empowers you change your perspective? ([49:05])
2. The sermon emphasized that our role is to sow the seed and leave the results to God. How can you apply this principle in your daily interactions with others? ([55:14])
3. Identify one person in your life who does not know Christ. What specific steps can you take this week to share the Gospel with them, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in their heart? ([47:47])
4. How can you overcome the fear of rejection when sharing your faith, knowing that rejection is not personal but directed towards Christ? ([50:39])
5. The sermon mentioned the transformation of Peter from a denier to a bold proclaimer of the Gospel. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to give you boldness in your witness? ([49:05])
6. What are some practical ways you can be more obedient in fulfilling the Great Commission in your community? ([55:14])
7. How does the promise of Jesus' continual presence and authority (Matthew 28:20) encourage you to engage in disciple-making despite challenges? ([01:23:05])
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the themes of disciple-making, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of obedience in spreading the Gospel. Use these questions to foster meaningful discussion and encourage practical application in your lives.
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing the Mandate of Disciple-Making
Disciple-making is not merely an activity but a divine command that every believer is called to engage in. This directive from Christ is clear and unequivocal, urging followers to step beyond their comfort zones and actively participate in the expansion of His kingdom. The Great Commission, as highlighted in Matthew 28, is not a passive suggestion but a compelling command to action. This involves not only sharing the Gospel but living out the principles of discipleship in every interaction. The fear of inadequacy or rejection often hinders this mission, yet the assurance of Christ's presence provides the boldness needed to overcome these challenges. [42:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8CPph3uf8g&t=2520s)
Acts 4:29-31 ESV
"And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus." And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.
Reflection: How can you step out in boldness this week to share your faith with someone who does not yet know Christ?
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Day 2: Powered by the Spirit in Witnessing
The role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism is indispensable. Believers are not left to rely on their own strength or eloquence; instead, they are empowered by the Spirit to be effective witnesses. The transformation of Peter from a fearful denier to a bold proclaimer of the Gospel vividly illustrates this truth. When believers step out in obedience to make disciples, they can trust that the Holy Spirit will equip them with the courage and the words needed, ensuring that their efforts align with God's sovereign work. [49:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8CPph3uf8g&t=2930s)
1 Thessalonians 1:5 ESV
"Because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction."
Reflection: In what ways can you more fully rely on the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own abilities in your efforts to evangelize?
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Day 3: Understanding Our Role and God's Sovereignty
A common barrier to disciple-making is the misconception that believers are responsible for the conversion of others. This misunderstanding can lead to unnecessary pressure and discouragement. It is vital to recognize that while we are called to faithfully proclaim the Gospel, the work of converting hearts is entirely God's through the Holy Spirit. This division of labor allows believers to focus on their task without bearing the weight of the outcome. [52:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8CPph3uf8g&t=3112s)
2 Corinthians 4:7 ESV
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us."
Reflection: How can you adjust your approach to sharing the Gospel to focus more on faithful proclamation rather than feeling responsible for the outcome?
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Day 4: The Crucial Role of Obedience in Disciple-Making
Disciple-making requires more than just intention; it demands obedience. The parable of the sower teaches that while the growth of the seed is God's work, the sower's role is to scatter the seed diligently. This act of obedience is crucial in positioning believers to be used by God in expanding His kingdom. By focusing on our role to sow, we participate in a divine partnership where our efforts align with God's sovereign plans. [55:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8CPph3uf8g&t=3299s)
James 1:22-25 ESV
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror."
Reflection: What specific action can you take this week to sow the seeds of the Gospel in your community?
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Day 5: Divine Empowerment Overcomes Fear
The promise of Jesus' continual presence and authority as believers fulfill the Great Commission is a profound source of empowerment. This divine backing enables followers of Christ to carry out their mission with confidence, overcoming all barriers and opposition. Knowing that we go in Jesus' name and carry His authority should embolden us to face the challenges of disciple-making without fear. [01:23:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8CPph3uf8g&t=4970s)
Ephesians 6:19-20 ESV
"And also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak."
Reflection: What fears have been holding you back from being a bold witness for Christ, and how can you overcome them by relying on His authority?
Quotes
"It's not our efforts that bring success, it's our obedience, because Peter obeyed Jesus, regardless of what he thought he knew, he caught a fish." [01:17:37]
"Jesus is not concerned with how begrudgingly we do it, he's just like, do it. Jesus is like, I'm not about to let you get in the way of what I'm trying to do, so mad or not, now, it may benefit you to do it with joy, because you might get a little reward." [01:16:15]
"The Holy Spirit is our courage and our boldness because he ain't never scared. Now, let me give you a couple passages really quick. If you don't believe that if you go, you don't go on your own strength, but you'll have power and courage in the Holy Spirit." [01:27:22]
"Peter went from coward to courageous simply by the calling of the Holy Spirit. And the connection for you and I is, even if I'm scared to go, let me be clear about it. Sometimes I'll be like, man, I don't know, guys. You sure?" [01:29:53]
"Three different examples from different passages, all pointing to the same conclusion. It's not our efforts that win people to the kingdom. It's our obedience to go that scatters the seed that God sprouts and grows." [01:31:47]
"Get rid of the overthinking. Stop allowing all of these glory seekers to discourage you from going. Every catch won't be a big catch. You may only get one, two, three, or four people. But the ones that you didn't get wasn't because of your effort." [01:32:56]
"Jesus is not saying do nothing, he is saying that the conversion and sanctification is based on God, but somebody has to put the seed in the ground, somebody has to feed the baby, the farmer has responsibility, but never is he to take credit for the growth." [01:04:34]
"The kingdom of God is like a man who went proclaiming the word of God, right? See that? And what message did he go proclaiming? The kingdom. And so, right now, it makes it clear that Jesus is saying there is a responsibility to go." [55:14]
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