Empowering Global Ministry Through Partnership and Generosity
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. It is an honor to join you at the 9th Annual Church Leaders virtual breakfast. My name is John Chestnut, and I serve as the President and CEO of Wycliffe Bible Translators USA. I am thrilled to hear about the exciting things God is doing in the church among you in the Caribbean. Your ongoing partnerships with Wycliffe Caribbean and your engagement in projects like the Western Caribbean Old Testament translation, which will impact nine million people, are truly inspiring. This work is not confined to your country but extends to communities worldwide where such speakers are found.
The collaboration between churches, theological institutions, and Wycliffe Caribbean to engage God's Word in languages that speak to the hearts of people is crucial. This story of partnership and engagement is being repeated globally. For instance, the Church of Iran, despite facing severe challenges, is one of the fastest-growing churches in the world. Church planting networks there are working with Bible translators to ensure that God's Word is available in the languages of the communities they serve. This is essential for establishing healthy churches.
Your topic this morning, "partnering and generosity," resonates deeply with what I see God doing worldwide. While the world seems to be getting harder, your leadership and commitment to shepherding your congregations through these difficult times are commendable. It is a privilege for Wycliffe U.S. to partner with Wycliffe Caribbean and engage with you in spreading God's Word across nations. The vision of Revelation 7:9, where people from every tongue, tribe, language, and nation worship God, is a future we strive for together. Thank you for your ministry and partnership. May God bless you as you gather today.
### Key Takeaways
1. Global Impact of Local Efforts: The work you are doing in the Caribbean, such as the Western Caribbean Old Testament translation, has a global impact. This project will touch the lives of nine million people, not just locally but in communities worldwide where these languages are spoken. This highlights the far-reaching effects of local ministry efforts. [01:30]
2. The Power of Partnership: The collaboration between churches, theological institutions, and organizations like Wycliffe Caribbean is essential for engaging God's Word in languages that resonate with people's hearts. This partnership model is being replicated globally, demonstrating the power of unity in fulfilling the Great Commission. [02:59]
3. Resilience in Adversity: The Church of Iran, growing rapidly under difficult circumstances, exemplifies resilience and faith. Their commitment to church planting and ensuring scripture is available in local languages shows the importance of perseverance and strategic collaboration in ministry. [02:59]
4. Generosity and Partnership: The themes of partnering and generosity are crucial in today's world. Despite the increasing hardness of the world, your leadership and willingness to shepherd your congregations through these times are vital. Generosity in spirit and resources can pave the way for significant spiritual breakthroughs. [02:59]
5. Vision of Unity in Worship: The vision from Revelation 7:9, where people from every tongue, tribe, language, and nation worship God, is a powerful reminder of our ultimate goal. This vision drives our efforts in Bible translation and ministry, encouraging us to work towards a future where God's Word is accessible to all. [04:17]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[0:30] - Introduction and Greetings
[01:00] - Exciting Developments in the Caribbean
[01:30] - Western Caribbean Old Testament Translation
[02:00] - Global Impact of Local Efforts
[02:30] - Church Growth in Iran
[02:59] - Partnering and Generosity
[03:30] - Challenges and Leadership
[04:00] - Vision of Revelation 7:9
[04:17] - Gratitude and Blessings
[04:30] - Closing Remarks
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 7:9 (NIV) - "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands."
2. Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV) - "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."
3. Acts 1:8 (NIV) - "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."
#### Observation Questions
1. What is the significance of the vision in Revelation 7:9 where people from every nation, tribe, people, and language are worshiping God? How does this vision relate to the work of Bible translation? [04:17]
2. According to the sermon, how is the Church of Iran demonstrating resilience and faith despite facing severe challenges? [02:59]
3. What are some examples of the global impact of local ministry efforts mentioned in the sermon, particularly in the Caribbean? [01:30]
4. How does the collaboration between churches, theological institutions, and organizations like Wycliffe Caribbean help in engaging God's Word in different languages? [01:30]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the vision in Revelation 7:9 inspire and motivate the work of Bible translation and ministry efforts globally? [04:17]
2. In what ways does the Church of Iran's growth under adversity illustrate the importance of perseverance and strategic collaboration in ministry? [02:59]
3. How does the theme of partnering and generosity, as discussed in the sermon, reflect the biblical mandate in Matthew 28:19-20? [02:59]
4. What does Acts 1:8 suggest about the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to be witnesses "to the ends of the earth"? How does this relate to the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators? [04:17]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Revelation 7:9, how can you personally contribute to the vision of people from every nation, tribe, and language worshiping God? What steps can you take to support Bible translation efforts? [04:17]
2. Considering the resilience of the Church of Iran, how can you apply similar perseverance in your own faith journey, especially when facing challenges? [02:59]
3. How can your local church or small group engage in partnerships that promote the spread of God's Word, both locally and globally? What specific actions can you take to foster these partnerships? [01:30]
4. In what ways can you practice generosity in your daily life to support ministry efforts? Can you think of a recent opportunity where you could have been more generous with your time, resources, or talents? [02:59]
5. How does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 challenge you to be more active in making disciples? What practical steps can you take this week to share your faith with others? [02:59]
6. Reflect on Acts 1:8 and the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. How can you seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment to be a more effective witness for Christ? [04:17]
7. Think about a specific community or group that does not have access to the Bible in their language. How can you raise awareness or support efforts to translate the Bible for them? [01:30]
Devotional
Day 1: Global Impact of Local Ministry
The work being done in the Caribbean, such as the Western Caribbean Old Testament translation, is a testament to the profound global impact that local ministry efforts can have. This project is set to touch the lives of nine million people, not only within the Caribbean but also in communities worldwide where these languages are spoken. This highlights the far-reaching effects of local ministry efforts and the importance of engaging in work that transcends geographical boundaries. The ripple effect of such initiatives demonstrates how local actions can contribute to the global mission of spreading God's Word. [01:30]
"For from the rising of the sun to its setting my name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my name, and a pure offering. For my name will be great among the nations, says the Lord of hosts." (Malachi 1:11, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a local ministry or project you are involved in. How can you contribute to its impact beyond your immediate community?
Day 2: The Power of Partnership
The collaboration between churches, theological institutions, and organizations like Wycliffe Caribbean is essential for engaging God's Word in languages that resonate with people's hearts. This partnership model is being replicated globally, demonstrating the power of unity in fulfilling the Great Commission. By working together, these entities can achieve more than they could individually, creating a synergy that amplifies their efforts and reaches more people with the message of the Gospel. The strength of partnership lies in the shared vision and combined resources that enable the translation and dissemination of God's Word to those who need it most. [02:59]
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a partnership or collaboration you are part of. How can you strengthen this partnership to better serve God's mission?
Day 3: Resilience in Adversity
The Church of Iran, growing rapidly under difficult circumstances, exemplifies resilience and faith. Despite facing severe challenges, church planting networks there are working with Bible translators to ensure that God's Word is available in the languages of the communities they serve. This commitment to church planting and scripture translation shows the importance of perseverance and strategic collaboration in ministry. The resilience of the Church of Iran serves as an inspiration to believers worldwide, reminding us that faith can flourish even in the most challenging environments. [02:59]
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." (James 1:2-3, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you draw strength from the resilience of the Church of Iran to persevere in your faith?
Day 4: Generosity and Partnership
The themes of partnering and generosity are crucial in today's world. Despite the increasing hardness of the world, leadership and willingness to shepherd congregations through these times are vital. Generosity in spirit and resources can pave the way for significant spiritual breakthroughs. By embodying a spirit of generosity, individuals and churches can create an environment where God's love and provision are evident, encouraging others to do the same. This generosity is not just about financial giving but also about sharing time, talents, and support with those in need. [02:59]
"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one way you can practice generosity today, whether through your time, resources, or support. How can this act of generosity impact those around you?
Day 5: Vision of Unity in Worship
The vision from Revelation 7:9, where people from every tongue, tribe, language, and nation worship God, is a powerful reminder of our ultimate goal. This vision drives efforts in Bible translation and ministry, encouraging believers to work towards a future where God's Word is accessible to all. The unity in worship depicted in this vision serves as a call to action for Christians to embrace diversity and work together to spread the Gospel. It is a vision that inspires hope and motivates believers to strive for a world where everyone can experience the transformative power of God's Word. [04:17]
"And they sang a new song, saying, 'Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.'" (Revelation 5:9, ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to the vision of unity in worship within your community? What steps can you take to embrace and celebrate diversity in your church?
Quotes
1) "You know, your story, it's happening there is being repeated I believe all around the world today. I'm seeing an outpouring of God's Spirit as maybe in areas and workings that maybe I don't know maybe we've not seen in the history of the world before. Stories such as what God is doing in the church in Iran. You may be aware that the Church of Iran, under very difficult circumstances, is one of the fastest growing churches around the world in any country today. And one of the things for me that is really exciting is to see how God has laid on the heart of men and women who desire to plant churches across that country." [01:30] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "And your topic this morning of partnering and generosity, that word partnering and generosity, those are two of the things that I'm seeing that God is really pouring out His Spirit in the midst of what's going on in the world today. At the same time, I'm also seeing that it feels like that the hard today is getting harder. And you all have been, as leaders, you're right in the midst of that as well, as you've been leading your congregations and churches. Through this difficult season in which we find ourselves in the world today." [02:59] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "It's a privilege for us as Wycliffe U.S. to be able to partner with Wycliffe Caribbean and to engage with you as the church in the Caribbean. As we see God's word come across all the nations around the world. That picture that we have in Revelation 7-9 where we have people from every tongue, tribe, language and nation that's circling around the throne and they're worshiping God. That's a picture that we have in our future. That's a picture that we're striving for." [04:17] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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