Eternal Faith: Transforming Lives and Desires
Summary
### Summary
Today, we celebrated Baptism Sunday, a powerful act of worship symbolizing internal transformation. Eleven candidates were baptized, each entering the water one way and emerging completely renewed in the name of Jesus. This celebration mirrors the heavenly rejoicing that occurs when someone enters the Kingdom of God. We then transitioned into our ongoing sermon series, "By Faith," focusing on Hebrews 11:13-16. This passage highlights the concept of eternal faith, a faith that persists beyond our lifetime and circumstances.
Eternal faith is about believing in God's promises even if we don't see them fulfilled in our lifetime. The Old Testament believers exemplified this by dying in faith without receiving the promises but seeing them from afar. This kind of faith changes who we are, how we speak, what we desire, and where we are going. It transforms us into strangers and exiles on this earth, making us citizens of heaven. Our speech should reflect this heavenly citizenship, seasoned with grace and devoid of corruption.
Eternal faith also changes our desires. As we walk with God, our appetite for worldly things diminishes, and we begin to crave what God has for us. This faith directs our steps towards a heavenly home, a place prepared by God, filled with His approval and access to His eternal presence. We are encouraged to live not for the approval of man but for the pleasure of God, who has prepared a city for us.
Finally, we discussed our "Who's Next" campaign, aimed at securing a permanent dwelling for our church. This campaign is not just about raising funds but about preparing for the souls that God will bring into our community. We are already seeing glimpses of what God wants to do, and we are called to give in faith, believing in the future He has planned for us.
### Key Takeaways
1. Eternal Faith Transforms Identity: Eternal faith changes who we are by making us strangers and exiles on this earth. Our primary citizenship is in heaven, and this should influence how we live and interact with the world around us. We are called to live according to the values of the Kingdom of God, not the world. [50:29]
2. Heavenly Accent in Our Speech: Eternal faith changes how we speak. Our words should be seasoned with grace and devoid of corruption, reflecting our heavenly citizenship. This means speaking in a way that builds others up and gives grace to those who hear, even in challenging situations. [01:12:55]
3. Transformation of Desires: As we walk with God, eternal faith changes what we want. Our desires shift from worldly pleasures to heavenly treasures. This transformation is a natural outcome of our relationship with God, making us crave what He has for us rather than what we left behind. [01:26:18]
4. Direction Towards a Heavenly Home: Eternal faith changes where we are going. It sets our GPS towards a heavenly home prepared by God, filled with His approval and eternal presence. This faith assures us that God's goodness continues beyond our lifetime, giving us hope and purpose. [01:35:14]
5. Living for God's Approval: Eternal faith encourages us to live for God's approval rather than man's. This brings a sense of peace and fulfillment that surpasses any earthly validation. God's pleasure over our lives is the ultimate affirmation, guiding us in our decisions and actions. [01:37:21]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[18:34] - Baptism Celebration
[19:11] - Prayer for Baptism Candidates
[19:55] - New Life in Christ
[48:03] - Introduction to Sermon
[48:35] - Hebrews 11:13-16 Reading
[49:11] - Eternal Faith Introduction
[51:06] - Disney+ and Eternal Faith
[53:06] - The Lesson from Little Mermaid
[54:23] - Believing Beyond a Day
[55:07] - Eternal Faith and Spoiled Food
[56:58] - Faith Beyond Expiration
[58:21] - Faith Without Receiving Promises
[59:50] - The Garden and Sin
[01:01:28] - Jesus the Rescuer
[01:03:12] - Dangerous Faith
[01:04:57] - Eternal Faith Changes Who You Are
[01:12:55] - Eternal Faith Changes How You Speak
[01:24:37] - Eternal Faith Changes What You Want
[01:35:14] - Eternal Faith Changes Where You're Going
[01:42:10] - Who's Next Campaign Update
[01:49:56] - Invitation to Prayer and Salvation
[01:51:29] - Closing Prayer and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 11:13-16 (ESV): "These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 11:13-16, what did the Old Testament believers acknowledge about their status on earth?
2. How does the passage describe the faith of the Old Testament believers in relation to the promises of God?
3. What does the passage say about the desires of the Old Testament believers and their ultimate destination?
4. In the sermon, how did the pastor describe the transformation that occurs through eternal faith? ([49:11])
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to be a "stranger and exile" on this earth according to Hebrews 11:13-16? How does this concept affect a believer's identity? ([50:29])
2. How does the idea of eternal faith challenge the way we view unfulfilled promises in our lifetime? ([54:23])
3. The sermon mentioned that eternal faith changes our desires. How does walking with God shift our focus from worldly pleasures to heavenly treasures? ([01:26:18])
4. How does the concept of living for God's approval rather than man's approval impact our daily decisions and actions? ([01:37:21])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life. In what ways do you see yourself as a "stranger and exile" on this earth? How does this perspective influence your daily interactions and decisions? ([50:29])
2. Think about a promise from God that you are still waiting to see fulfilled. How can you maintain faith and hope even if you don't see it come to pass in your lifetime? ([54:23])
3. How can you ensure that your speech is seasoned with grace and devoid of corruption, especially in challenging situations? Can you think of a recent conversation where you could have applied this principle? ([01:12:55])
4. Identify one worldly desire that has diminished as you have grown in your faith. What heavenly treasure has replaced it, and how has this transformation impacted your life? ([01:26:18])
5. Consider a recent decision you made. Was it influenced more by seeking God's approval or man's approval? How can you shift your focus to prioritize God's pleasure in future decisions? ([01:37:21])
6. The sermon mentioned the "Who's Next" campaign and the importance of giving in faith. How can you contribute to your church's mission and vision, believing in the future God has planned for your community? ([01:42:10])
7. Eternal faith changes where we are going. How does the assurance of a heavenly home prepared by God give you hope and purpose in your current life circumstances? ([01:35:14])
Devotional
Day 1: Our True Identity as Citizens of Heaven
Eternal faith transforms our identity, making us strangers and exiles on this earth. This means that our primary citizenship is in heaven, and this should influence how we live and interact with the world around us. We are called to live according to the values of the Kingdom of God, not the world. This transformation is not just a change in status but a profound shift in how we see ourselves and our purpose. As citizens of heaven, our lives should reflect the love, grace, and truth of God in every aspect.
This new identity calls us to live differently, to prioritize heavenly values over earthly ones. It means that our actions, decisions, and interactions should be guided by our eternal perspective. We are to be ambassadors of Christ, representing His kingdom in a world that often opposes it. This can be challenging, but it is also a powerful testimony to the transformative power of faith. [50:29]
Hebrews 13:14 (ESV): "For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come."
Reflection: How does knowing your primary citizenship is in heaven change the way you approach your daily life and interactions with others today?
Day 2: Speaking with a Heavenly Accent
Eternal faith changes how we speak. Our words should be seasoned with grace and devoid of corruption, reflecting our heavenly citizenship. This means speaking in a way that builds others up and gives grace to those who hear, even in challenging situations. Our speech is a powerful tool that can either reflect the love of Christ or contribute to the brokenness of the world.
As believers, we are called to use our words to encourage, uplift, and speak truth in love. This requires intentionality and a heart aligned with God's purposes. It means avoiding gossip, slander, and negativity, and instead, choosing words that bring life and hope. Our speech should be a reflection of the transformation that has taken place within us, pointing others to the grace and truth of Jesus. [01:12:55]
Ephesians 4:29 (ESV): "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."
Reflection: Think about your conversations today. How can you intentionally use your words to build others up and reflect your heavenly citizenship?
Day 3: Desiring Heavenly Treasures
As we walk with God, eternal faith changes what we want. Our desires shift from worldly pleasures to heavenly treasures. This transformation is a natural outcome of our relationship with God, making us crave what He has for us rather than what we left behind. This shift in desires is a sign of spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of what truly matters.
Worldly desires often lead to temporary satisfaction and can distract us from our eternal purpose. In contrast, heavenly desires align with God's will and bring lasting fulfillment. As our relationship with God deepens, we begin to see the emptiness of worldly pursuits and the richness of a life devoted to Him. This change in desires is not something we can force but is a result of the Holy Spirit's work in our hearts. [01:26:18]
Colossians 3:2 (ESV): "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Reflection: What worldly desires are you holding onto that may be hindering your walk with God? How can you begin to shift your focus towards heavenly treasures today?
Day 4: Journeying Towards Our Heavenly Home
Eternal faith changes where we are going. It sets our GPS towards a heavenly home prepared by God, filled with His approval and eternal presence. This faith assures us that God's goodness continues beyond our lifetime, giving us hope and purpose. Knowing that we have an eternal home with God changes how we live our lives here on earth.
This eternal perspective helps us endure hardships and remain steadfast in our faith. It reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and that we have a glorious future awaiting us. This hope gives us the strength to persevere and the motivation to live in a way that honors God. Our journey towards our heavenly home is marked by faith, hope, and a deep sense of purpose. [01:35:14]
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV): "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: How does the assurance of a heavenly home influence your perspective on current challenges and your daily decisions?
Day 5: Living for God's Approval
Eternal faith encourages us to live for God's approval rather than man's. This brings a sense of peace and fulfillment that surpasses any earthly validation. God's pleasure over our lives is the ultimate affirmation, guiding us in our decisions and actions. Living for God's approval means prioritizing His will and seeking to please Him in all that we do.
This can be challenging in a world that often values human approval and recognition. However, the peace and fulfillment that come from knowing we are pleasing God far outweigh any temporary accolades from people. When we live for God's approval, we are free from the pressure to conform to worldly standards and can fully embrace our identity and purpose in Christ. [01:37:21]
Galatians 1:10 (ESV): "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you seeking human approval over God's? How can you shift your focus to live for God's approval today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Baptism is simply an external act of worship that shows an internal transformation. We believe that as those who are coming today go into the water, they go in as one way, but they come out a different way. They come out completely and totally brand new, living a life that is oriented and for the matchless name of Jesus." [18:34] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "New hope. New power. New mercy. New transformation that comes up out of this water today. God, bless this moment and be near. It's in Jesus' name I pray. If you agree, shout amen, family. Come on, let's continue to worship God." [19:55] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Family, let's get to the point. There are some things that God has promised you that he has prepared for you at a predetermined time. And some of us get discouraged because of how long it takes to come into the promises of God. But I believe there's a lesson in my children today that says I have to believe beyond a day. I have to believe beyond a year. I have to believe beyond two years." [54:23] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Eternal faith is a dangerous type of faith. Because it tells God, even if I don't live to see it, I believe you'll do it. Even if I don't live to see my child come back, I believe you'll do it. Even if I don't live to see the city of Charlottesville won, I believe you'll do it. Even if I don't live to see Victory Church become all that God had called it to be, I believe you'll do it." [01:03:12] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Eternal faith changes who you are. Eternal faith changes how you speak. Eternal faith changes what you want and eternal faith changes where you're going. Eternal faith changes who you are, how you speak, what you want and where you're going." [01:04:57] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When we look at our text this morning, we are in between characters. We've heard already of Abel. We've heard already of Noah. We've heard of Enoch. We've heard of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We've heard of Sarah. We're in between this moment. And all of a sudden, the text interjects with a reflection, and then it gets back to listing. Before we see by faith, by faith, by faith, by faith, and here it says in faith. It says in faith that, or that it says, these all died, excuse me, in faith." [58:21] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The gospel, when we have eternal faith, changes who we are. I identify not with the world. I identify with the kingdom of God. I identify with heaven. My home isn't here. So there should be something that's always uncomfortable about what the world tries to present to me because I've got the answer. There's not a teacher that shows up to the test concerned. know why? Because they got the answer key." [01:11:18] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When we are walking eternally by faith, it actually changes where our GPS is taking us. We're going to a place that has two things, God's approval and God's access. If we look at the text, we recognize that it is talking about if you believe this way, you believe in a way in which God is not ashamed that you call him your God. To have the Lord's pleasure on your life is one of the most beautiful, peaceful, settling feelings in the world." [01:35:14] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When we think about what it is to live by faith, when we think about what it is to walk by faith? I believe this portion of Hebrews 11 is reminding us that faith is not on our own time scale. That faith, what we're believing God for it goes beyond us. And what I tell you I'm excited about what I'll see you receive. see from heaven. It's because just like the saints of old, I've got a glimpse." [01:38:34] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So my prayer over this house, eternal faith, that no matter what the situation speaks to when God's activity will expire, I'll say at the end, there is someone with no hope. That at the end, there's a door at the dead end. There's a door that what you think ends, there's something after the end. And I'm living for that." [01:40:17] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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