Encountering Jesus: The Transformative Power of Worship

Summary

### Summary

Good morning, church. Today, we had the joy of witnessing the baptism of two precious children, Holden Dallas Smith and Josephine Marie Parrish. Baptism is a powerful reminder that we are children of God, and it signifies our relationship with His kingdom. As a church family, we commit to supporting these families in raising their children in the faith, even when life takes them far from us.

Our focus today is on encountering Jesus in worship. We read from Luke 19:1-9, the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Despite his social status and sins, Zacchaeus sought Jesus earnestly. Jesus invited him down and declared that salvation had come to his house. This story teaches us the importance of seeking Jesus with a genuine heart and responding to His invitation.

Worship is not just a routine; it is an opportunity to encounter the living God. Whether through songs, scripture, prayer, or sacraments, we should come with the expectation of meeting Jesus. I shared a personal experience from a conference where I encountered the Holy Spirit powerfully, reminding us that God’s love is poured out through His Spirit.

We also discussed the significance of corporate worship. Jesus promises to be present when two or three gather in His name. This gathering holds a special power and significance, allowing us to experience the Holy Spirit in a unique way. We must come to worship expecting transformation, just as Zacchaeus was transformed by his encounter with Jesus.

In closing, I encouraged everyone to respond to Jesus' invitation, just as Zacchaeus did. Worship is a time to open ourselves to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Let us not take this time for granted but come with great expectations to encounter Jesus and be changed by His presence.

### Key Takeaways

1. Baptism as a Sign of God's Kingdom: Baptism is a profound reminder that we are children of God and part of His kingdom. It signifies our relationship with God and our commitment to raise our children in the faith. As a church, we must support each other in this journey, recognizing the sacred responsibility we share. [15:22]

2. Seeking Jesus in Worship: Worship is not merely a routine but an opportunity to encounter Jesus. Like Zacchaeus, we must seek Jesus earnestly, regardless of our circumstances. When we come to worship with the expectation of meeting Jesus, we open ourselves to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. [44:24]

3. The Power of Corporate Worship: Jesus promises to be present when two or three gather in His name. Corporate worship holds a special significance, allowing us to experience the Holy Spirit in a unique and powerful way. This gathering is an opportunity to encounter God’s presence and be transformed by it. [40:39]

4. Responding to Jesus' Invitation: Jesus extends an invitation to each of us, just as He did to Zacchaeus. We must respond to this invitation with an open heart, ready to welcome Jesus into our lives. This response leads to a deeper relationship with God and a life transformed by His love and grace. [51:26]

5. Transformation Through Encounter: True worship leads to transformation. When we encounter Jesus, we are changed, just as Zacchaeus was. This transformation involves a shift in our priorities and actions, aligning our lives more closely with God’s will. Worship is a time to open ourselves to this transformative power. [56:43]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[15:22] - Introduction of Families for Baptism
[16:24] - Commitment to Raise Children in Faith
[17:13] - Congregational Support for Families
[33:49] - Reading from Luke 19:1-9
[35:47] - Prayer and Thanksgiving
[37:30] - Personal Encounter with the Holy Spirit
[38:35] - The Power of God's Love
[39:25] - Importance of Worship
[40:39] - The Significance of Corporate Worship
[41:49] - Background on Tax Collectors
[44:24] - Seeking Jesus in Worship
[46:33] - Commitment to Worship
[47:30] - Encountering God Through Songs and Scripture
[48:33] - Power of Prayer and Ministry Time
[49:36] - Sacraments as a Means of Encounter
[51:26] - Responding to Jesus' Invitation
[52:25] - Invitation to Experience Living Water
[53:43] - Invitation to Worship
[54:47] - Transformation Through Encounter
[56:43] - Mary and Martha: Choosing the Better Part
[59:00] - Personal Transformation and Relationship with God
[01:00:46] - William Holman Hunt's "Light of the World"
[01:01:37] - Invitation to Open the Door to Jesus
[01:02:42] - Closing Prayer and Invitation for Personal Prayer
[01:03:57] - Final Song and Prayer Time

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
- Luke 19:1-9: The story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who sought to see Jesus and was transformed by his encounter with Him.

### Observation Questions
1. What actions did Zacchaeus take to see Jesus despite the crowd? ([33:49])
2. How did Jesus respond to Zacchaeus when He saw him in the sycamore tree? ([33:49])
3. What was Zacchaeus' reaction to Jesus' invitation to come down from the tree? ([51:26])
4. What transformation did Zacchaeus undergo after his encounter with Jesus? ([56:43])

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Zacchaeus was so eager to see Jesus, even though he was a wealthy tax collector? ([33:49])
2. What does Jesus' invitation to Zacchaeus teach us about His willingness to engage with those who are often marginalized or disliked? ([51:26])
3. How does Zacchaeus' response to Jesus' invitation reflect a genuine transformation in his life? ([56:43])
4. In what ways does the story of Zacchaeus illustrate the power of encountering Jesus in worship? ([39:25])

### Application Questions
1. Seeking Jesus in Worship: Like Zacchaeus, are there obstacles in your life that make it difficult to seek Jesus earnestly? What steps can you take to overcome these obstacles? ([33:49])
2. Responding to Jesus' Invitation: Jesus extends an invitation to each of us. How can you respond to His invitation in your daily life? Are there areas where you feel hesitant to let Jesus in? ([51:26])
3. Transformation Through Encounter: Zacchaeus was transformed by his encounter with Jesus. Reflect on a time when you felt transformed by an encounter with God. How did it change your actions and priorities? ([56:43])
4. Corporate Worship: Jesus promises to be present when two or three gather in His name. How can you make your participation in corporate worship more intentional and expectant of encountering Jesus? ([40:39])
5. Supporting Each Other in Faith: As a church family, we commit to supporting each other in our faith journeys. How can you actively support someone in your church community this week, especially those who might be struggling? ([16:24])
6. Encountering God in Different Ways: Worship can involve songs, scripture, prayer, and sacraments. Which of these do you find most impactful in your worship experience, and how can you engage more deeply with it? ([47:30])
7. Living Out the Transformation: Zacchaeus showed his transformation by giving half of his possessions to the poor and repaying those he had cheated. What tangible actions can you take to demonstrate the transformation Jesus has made in your life? ([56:43])

Devotional

Day 1: Baptism as a Sign of God's Kingdom
Baptism is a profound reminder that we are children of God and part of His kingdom. It signifies our relationship with God and our commitment to raise our children in the faith. As a church, we must support each other in this journey, recognizing the sacred responsibility we share. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a declaration of faith and a commitment to live according to God's will. It is a moment of grace where we are reminded of God's promises and our identity in Him.

When we witness a baptism, we are reminded of our own baptism and the vows we made or that were made on our behalf. It is a communal act that binds us together as a family of believers. We are called to support and encourage one another in our faith journeys, especially the newly baptized and their families. This support is crucial as they navigate the challenges of life and grow in their relationship with God. [15:22]

Romans 6:3-4 (ESV): "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."

Reflection: How can you actively support someone in your church community who has recently been baptized or is raising their children in the faith?

Day 2: Seeking Jesus in Worship
Worship is not merely a routine but an opportunity to encounter Jesus. Like Zacchaeus, we must seek Jesus earnestly, regardless of our circumstances. When we come to worship with the expectation of meeting Jesus, we open ourselves to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Worship is a time to set aside our distractions and focus on God, seeking His presence with a genuine heart.

Zacchaeus' story teaches us that no matter our past or social status, Jesus welcomes us when we seek Him earnestly. In worship, we have the chance to experience God's love and grace in a profound way. It is a time to be honest with God about our struggles and to receive His healing and guidance. By approaching worship with an open heart, we allow God to work in us and through us. [44:24]

Psalm 27:4 (ESV): "One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple."

Reflection: What steps can you take to prepare your heart and mind to encounter Jesus more deeply in worship this week?

Day 3: The Power of Corporate Worship
Jesus promises to be present when two or three gather in His name. Corporate worship holds a special significance, allowing us to experience the Holy Spirit in a unique and powerful way. This gathering is an opportunity to encounter God’s presence and be transformed by it. When we come together as a community of believers, we are strengthened and encouraged in our faith.

Corporate worship is a time to unite our hearts and voices in praise and adoration of God. It is a time to share in the sacraments, hear God's Word, and pray together. The collective experience of worship can deepen our sense of belonging and remind us that we are part of a larger body of Christ. It is in these moments that we can experience the fullness of God's presence and be inspired to live out our faith more boldly. [40:39]

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: How can you contribute to creating a more meaningful and transformative experience in your church's corporate worship gatherings?

Day 4: Responding to Jesus' Invitation
Jesus extends an invitation to each of us, just as He did to Zacchaeus. We must respond to this invitation with an open heart, ready to welcome Jesus into our lives. This response leads to a deeper relationship with God and a life transformed by His love and grace. Jesus' invitation is a call to leave behind our old ways and embrace a new life in Him.

Responding to Jesus requires a willingness to be vulnerable and to trust in His plan for our lives. It means allowing Him to enter into every aspect of our lives and to guide us in our decisions and actions. When we respond to Jesus' invitation, we experience His peace, joy, and purpose. It is a journey of continual growth and transformation as we seek to follow Him more closely. [51:26]

Revelation 3:20 (ESV): "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to respond to Jesus' invitation more fully? How can you take a step towards that today?

Day 5: Transformation Through Encounter
True worship leads to transformation. When we encounter Jesus, we are changed, just as Zacchaeus was. This transformation involves a shift in our priorities and actions, aligning our lives more closely with God’s will. Worship is a time to open ourselves to this transformative power. It is a time to reflect on God's goodness and to allow His Spirit to work in us.

Transformation through encounter with Jesus is not a one-time event but a continual process. It requires us to be intentional in our worship and to seek God's presence daily. As we encounter Jesus, we are called to live out our faith in tangible ways, showing love and compassion to others. This transformation is a testimony to the power of God's love and grace in our lives. [56:43]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: In what ways have you experienced transformation through your encounters with Jesus? How can you continue to seek His transformative power in your daily life?

Quotes

1. "And we worship an audience of one. And so as we gather to worship, may we not consider that we're here because, oh, it's a good routine, or it's something good to do, or I get to go see those friends I hadn't seen in a while, or I need to go just to be seen. But we're coming with a purpose, and that is to worship. And audience of one, to worship our God." [17:13] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "When we come to worship, again, we come different Sundays with different stuff, right? Some Sundays we might come and we might think, oh, it'd be good to sleep in. Anybody ever been there? Oh man, my couch feels good. What a beautiful day outside. My coffee cup is just extra great this morning. And we might come thinking, oh, I'll go. And we rush in, right? Right? And we might come from a place of broken or challenged relationships with someone under our roof in our own home or another relative or a friend or someone we thought was our friend or a coworker." [45:26] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "When we consider that there's an expectation in worship and that that is all about God and not about us and that we can encounter the power of God in our life, well, that makes worship a little bit different, doesn't it? And so may we commit to worship. May we commit to coming. Maybe it's in our church here at Asbury. Maybe it's in our church if we're visiting from out of town, wherever we live. When we go on vacation, may we want to be in worship." [46:33] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "We can encounter Jesus through the songs. Most of the songs we sing, especially in this room, are written either for God or about God and about our relationship with him. And so we can encounter God through songs. Most of the songs we have have different clips of scripture all throughout the praise song genre. Another one is read the word of God, right? As the word is read, as it's proclaimed. Hopefully, we're listening to what God is saying. And if we're listening to what God is saying, then God is speaking, right? He's speaking through his word, and we encounter him." [47:30] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The invitation is here for us all the time to worship God through his word, through the music. You can do that on the radio these days through your phone, uh, to worship corporately where two or three are gathered. There I will be. The invitation is there, uh, of, of Jesus saying, Hey, come to me. All you who are weary in Matthew chapter 11 verses 28 to 30, come all who are weary and heavy laden with burden. And. Let you rest. The invitation is always there. May we follow Zacchaeus his lead, no matter where we've been, what we're going through. May we respond to the invitation of Jesus to worship an audience of one, to seek him, to encounter him." [54:47] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "When we answer the invitation, we open ourselves to be transformed by the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords in Zacchaeus in Luke chapter 19, verse eight, we read, but Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, look, Lord here. And now I give half of my possessions. Possessions to the poor. Now think about that. A tax collector of many years who had invested all that extra money, uh, and one talent became two and, and five talents became 10 and 10 talents became 20, right? So he had all this stuff and all this well, and he said, Lord, from this day forward, I'll give half of everything I have to the poor." [56:43] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Luis Palau was a great evangelist for many years in the, uh, late nineties or eighties, nineties, uh, early two thousands. And Luis Palau said one encounter with Jesus. Is enough to change you instantly forever friends. I had several encounters in my life, several encounters when I was nine, when I threw out couples, when I was a teenager, uh, in college, I had encounters with Jesus, but it wasn't until that encounter I had at that conference that I really opened myself to receive the, the power of his Holy spirit to invite him in." [59:00] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "May we never take our time of worship for granted. May we worship an audience of one. May we strive when we come into this room to seek out Jesus, to seek out the Holy Spirit, to encounter. The power of our God. Let us do that now, as we continue to worship in song, as we enter into a time of prayer and ministry, uh, friends, uh, as the praise team comes up, uh, and the prayers come up, they're going to be spread out here in the front of the room. Uh, we invite you to come, uh, maybe you want to pray for someone that's hurting in your life." [01:02:42] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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