Empowered Women: Ambassadors of God's Goodness
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound calling and empowerment that God is bestowing upon women, likening it to the "Esther anointing." This anointing signifies a divine empowerment for women to rise to positions of influence and impact, much like Esther did in her time. We prayed for the women in our congregation, encouraging them to embrace this calling and step into the roles God has prepared for them. This empowerment is not to the exclusion of men but is a celebration of how God uniquely uses each of us for His purposes.
We continued our series on "The Goodness of God," focusing on our role as "Ambassadors of Goodness." Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5, we discussed how we are called to be representatives of Christ, carrying His message of reconciliation to the world. This ministry of reconciliation is a divine assignment given to all believers, urging us to help others find their way to God through Jesus Christ. We are reminded that our identity as ambassadors means we are citizens of heaven, living temporarily in this world with a mission to proclaim the good news.
Paul's teachings challenge us to see others not through the lens of the flesh but through the eyes of Christ, recognizing the new creation in each believer. This perspective prevents us from dehumanizing others and instead calls us to honor and love them as God does. We are tasked with sharing the goodness of God, which the world desperately needs, as it is losing heart at a rapid pace. Our role is to be carriers of this goodness, offering hope and light in a world that often feels dark and hopeless.
As we go forth this week, let us remember our assignment to be proclaimers of God's goodness, sharing His love and reconciliation with those around us. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry out this mission, knowing that we are not acting on our own behalf but as representatives of God's kingdom.
Key Takeaways:
1. Empowerment of Women: God is releasing a powerful anointing over women, akin to the "Esther anointing," calling them to rise to positions of influence and impact. This empowerment is a celebration of how God uniquely uses each of us for His purposes, not to the exclusion of men but as a part of His divine plan. [55:45]
2. Ambassadors of Goodness: As believers, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing His kingdom on earth. This role involves carrying the message of reconciliation, helping others find their way to God through Jesus Christ. Our identity as ambassadors means we are citizens of heaven, living temporarily in this world with a mission to proclaim the good news. [01:28:27]
3. Seeing Through Christ's Eyes: We are challenged to see others not through the lens of the flesh but through the eyes of Christ, recognizing the new creation in each believer. This perspective prevents us from dehumanizing others and instead calls us to honor and love them as God does. [01:11:26]
4. Carriers of God's Goodness: The world is losing heart at a rapid pace, and as believers, we are tasked with sharing the goodness of God. This involves offering hope and light in a world that often feels dark and hopeless, being generous in the distribution of God's goodness. [01:36:30]
5. Proclaimers of Reconciliation: Our divine assignment is to be proclaimers of God's goodness, sharing His love and reconciliation with those around us. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we carry out this mission, knowing that we are not acting on our own behalf but as representatives of God's kingdom. [01:33:40]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[55:45] - Esther Anointing for Women
[01:03:53] - Celebrating God's Blessings
[01:06:18] - Ambassadors of Goodness
[01:09:04] - Pointing to God, Not Ourselves
[01:11:26] - Seeing Through Christ's Eyes
[01:14:00] - The Great Exchange
[01:17:32] - Ministry of Reconciliation
[01:20:18] - Proclaiming the Good News
[01:22:41] - Freedom from Captivity
[01:25:40] - Announcing Freedom
[01:28:27] - Ambassadors for Christ
[01:31:25] - Temporary Assignment
[01:33:40] - Carriers of God's Goodness
[01:36:30] - Offering Hope in Despair
[01:42:09] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. 2 Corinthians 5:11-21
2. Galatians 2:20
3. Romans 10:9-14
---
Observation Questions:
1. What is the "Esther anointing" mentioned in the sermon, and how does it relate to the empowerment of women today? [55:45]
2. According to 2 Corinthians 5, what does it mean to be an ambassador for Christ? How does this role relate to our identity as citizens of heaven? [01:28:27]
3. How does Paul describe the ministry of reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 5, and what is its significance for believers? [01:14:57]
4. What does the sermon suggest about how we should view others, according to the teachings of Paul? [01:11:26]
---
Interpretation Questions:
1. How might the "Esther anointing" challenge traditional views of gender roles within the church? What implications does this have for both men and women in the congregation? [55:45]
2. In what ways does being an ambassador for Christ influence a believer's daily life and interactions with others? How does this role shape our understanding of our temporary assignment on earth? [01:30:39]
3. What does it mean to see others through the eyes of Christ, and how can this perspective transform our relationships and interactions with those around us? [01:12:01]
4. How does the concept of the ministry of reconciliation align with the idea of being carriers of God's goodness in a world that is losing heart? [01:36:30]
---
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt empowered by God to step into a new role or responsibility. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How can you encourage others to embrace their God-given callings? [56:04]
2. As an ambassador for Christ, what specific actions can you take this week to represent His kingdom in your community or workplace? How can you ensure that your actions point to God and not to yourself? [01:09:04]
3. Identify someone in your life whom you struggle to see through the eyes of Christ. What steps can you take to change your perspective and honor them as God does? [01:12:01]
4. The sermon mentioned the world losing heart at a rapid pace. How can you be a source of hope and light to those around you who may be feeling discouraged or hopeless? [01:36:30]
5. Consider the ministry of reconciliation. Who in your life needs to hear the message of reconciliation, and how can you share it with them in a loving and effective way? [01:15:54]
6. Reflect on your role as a carrier of God's goodness. What practical ways can you demonstrate God's goodness to others this week, especially to those who may not yet know Him? [01:39:32]
7. How can you remain focused on your identity as a citizen of heaven while navigating the challenges and distractions of this world? What practices can help you stay grounded in this truth? [01:31:25]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
---
Day 1: Embracing the Esther Anointing
God is calling women to rise to positions of influence and impact, much like Esther did in her time. This "Esther anointing" is a divine empowerment that encourages women to embrace their unique roles and step into the positions God has prepared for them. It is a celebration of how God uses each of us for His purposes, not to the exclusion of men but as a part of His divine plan. Women are encouraged to recognize this calling and to trust in God's empowerment to fulfill it. This empowerment is a reminder that God has a specific purpose for each individual, and by embracing it, we can make a significant impact in our communities and beyond. [55:45]
Esther 4:14 (ESV): "For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
Reflection: What unique role or position of influence do you feel God is calling you to embrace today? How can you take a step towards fulfilling this calling?
Day 2: Living as Ambassadors of Goodness
As believers, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing His kingdom on earth. This role involves carrying the message of reconciliation, helping others find their way to God through Jesus Christ. Our identity as ambassadors means we are citizens of heaven, living temporarily in this world with a mission to proclaim the good news. This divine assignment urges us to live with purpose, knowing that our actions and words reflect the kingdom we represent. By embracing this role, we can bring hope and light to those around us, sharing the goodness of God in a world that desperately needs it. [01:28:27]
2 Corinthians 5:20 (ESV): "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."
Reflection: In what ways can you actively represent Christ's kingdom in your daily interactions this week? How can you be a beacon of reconciliation and goodness to those around you?
Day 3: Seeing Others Through Christ's Eyes
We are challenged to see others not through the lens of the flesh but through the eyes of Christ, recognizing the new creation in each believer. This perspective prevents us from dehumanizing others and instead calls us to honor and love them as God does. By adopting this mindset, we can foster a community of love and respect, where each person is valued for who they are in Christ. This shift in perspective encourages us to look beyond outward appearances and to see the potential and worth in every individual, just as Christ does. [01:11:26]
2 Corinthians 5:16-17 (ESV): "From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: Think of someone you struggle to see through Christ's eyes. How can you begin to view them as a new creation in Christ today?
Day 4: Being Carriers of God's Goodness
The world is losing heart at a rapid pace, and as believers, we are tasked with sharing the goodness of God. This involves offering hope and light in a world that often feels dark and hopeless, being generous in the distribution of God's goodness. By being carriers of this goodness, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us, providing encouragement and support where it is needed most. This calling challenges us to be proactive in our faith, seeking opportunities to share God's love and kindness in practical ways. [01:36:30]
Romans 12:21 (ESV): "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Reflection: What is one practical way you can share God's goodness with someone in need today? How can you be a source of hope and light in your community?
Day 5: Proclaiming God's Reconciliation
Our divine assignment is to be proclaimers of God's goodness, sharing His love and reconciliation with those around us. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we carry out this mission, knowing that we are not acting on our own behalf but as representatives of God's kingdom. This calling invites us to be intentional in our interactions, seeking to build bridges and foster understanding among those we encounter. By proclaiming God's reconciliation, we can help others experience the transformative power of His love and grace, leading them to a deeper relationship with Him. [01:33:40]
Colossians 1:20 (ESV): "And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about God's reconciliation today? How can you share this message of love and grace with them in a meaningful way?
Quotes
1. "I believe that God is releasing a real powerful anointing, an Esther anointing over women. And we want to pray over the women. So women, if you want to be prayed over just to release that powerful anointing, come forward. Come meet us at the altar. If you're in the choir stand, you can come down here." [00:54:48] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You know that God used this humble woman. He used this humble woman who was obscure, was unlikely. And he used her by his sovereign grace. And he rose her to a place of great prestige and great position. And great power. And God used this woman. And I believe he's releasing that anointing over women today. He's releasing it over women in this house." [00:55:10] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "He says, God has reconciled us, all of humanity, to himself. He has made it possible for what I call, or what is called, the great exchange. What he did was once for all. Tickets in hand. And all you have to do as a human being is to go to Jesus to get your ticket. You do that, you have an all-access pass to eternal life." [01:14:00] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "If you want to know what your ministry is, at the end of the day, your ministry is a ministry of reconciliation, where we are assigned to help folks get that ticket. The train is leaving soon, and it's not sufficient to wave your ticket saying, I got mine. What about you? It's not sufficient. It's not right." [01:16:22] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We are ambassadors for Christ. As though God were pleading through us. We are not acting on our own behalf. Which means that we don't get to mix in our own agendas. Right? We're acting on behalf of God through Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit." [01:32:40] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We implore you on Christ's behalf be reconciled to God. This is our call. This is our mandate. We get to be carriers of His goodness. That's what we get to do. Now, I find it interesting because how many know that the world is like dying for the goodness of God?" [01:34:04] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And I always like to say it this way you know like we often take a pass on those assignments because we feel somebody else will come around but my thinking is exactly what that person needs is inside of you you're the assignment you're the one that's carrying it and they need it from you they need your words they need the tone of your words they need the handshake the smile the embrace they need the token of appreciation from your lips from your mouth not from the next person's mouth from your mouth we are say we are carriers of the goodness of God I am an ambassador from the kingdom of heaven while living in the kingdom of this world." [01:39:44] (75 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Nov 04, 2024. Do you have any questions about it?