Faithful Obedience: Embracing God's Call Beyond Comfort

Summary

### Summary

In today's message, we explored the profound themes of calling, challenge, and conviction in the context of Christian missions. Reflecting on personal experiences and scriptural insights, we delved into the journey of obedience to God's call, even when it leads us out of our comfort zones. The narrative began with a recount of the deep friendships and unity formed across denominations in Rome, Georgia, highlighting the importance of community and mutual support among believers. This unity and brotherhood were seen as the most significant achievements, underscoring the value of relationships in ministry.

We then transitioned to the story of pastoring during the 2008 recession, a challenging period that tested faith and resilience. This experience was a precursor to the call to missions in Scotland, a call that required leaving behind a well-established church and stepping into the unknown. The decision to move was not based on comfort or safety but on a deep conviction that God calls us to live by faith, not by sight. The message emphasized that God does not call us to a life of comfort but to a life of faith and obedience, even when it involves significant sacrifices.

The sermon also touched on the practical aspects of missions, including the challenges faced in Scotland, a nation with a rapidly declining Christian population. The call to Scotland was seen as a call to bring light to a place of spiritual darkness, to rebuild the church, restore faith in communities, and support local leaders. The narrative was enriched with personal anecdotes, including the humorous yet poignant story of navigating family dynamics and the cold climate of Scotland.

Ultimately, the message was a call to action for all believers to respond to God's call, regardless of the challenges. It was a reminder that God is faithful and that He equips those He calls. The encouragement was to step out in faith, trusting that God, who began a good work, will bring it to completion.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Value of Unity and Brotherhood in Ministry: The most significant achievement in ministry is often the relationships and unity formed among believers. These bonds of brotherhood, built across denominations and churches, provide strength and encouragement, reflecting the heart of Christ for His church. [39:38]

2. Obedience Over Comfort: God's call often leads us out of our comfort zones and into challenging situations. Obedience to His call is more important than personal comfort or safety. This principle was vividly illustrated through the decision to leave a well-established church for the mission field in Scotland. [43:27]

3. Faith in the Face of Challenges: The Christian journey is marked by challenges and difficulties. However, these challenges are opportunities for growth and deeper reliance on God. The story of pastoring during the 2008 recession and the subsequent call to Scotland exemplifies this truth. [44:40]

4. The Importance of Spiritual Conviction: Being convinced of God's call is crucial for enduring the hardships that come with it. This conviction provides the strength to persevere and remain faithful, even when the path is unclear or difficult. [49:32]

5. God's Faithfulness in Our Journey: God, who begins a good work in us, is faithful to complete it. Our responsibility is to remain obedient and faithful, trusting that He will bring His plans to fruition. This assurance provides peace and confidence in the midst of uncertainty. [01:08:19]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[39:38] - The Value of Unity and Brotherhood
[40:48] - Pastoring During the Recession
[41:56] - The Call to Missions
[43:27] - Obedience Over Comfort
[44:40] - Faith in the Face of Challenges
[45:40] - Family Dynamics and Mission
[47:00] - Answering God's Call
[48:12] - Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen
[49:32] - Spiritual Conviction
[50:41] - Personal Anecdotes and Scripture
[52:14] - Seeking God's Direction
[53:27] - The Challenge of Comfort
[54:38] - The Journey to Scotland
[57:16] - The Reality of Missions
[01:08:19] - God's Faithfulness in Our Journey
[01:26:14] - Final Prayer and Encouragement

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 4:12-16 (NIV)
> "When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali—to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: 'Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.'"

2. Philippians 1:6 (NIV)
> "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

3. Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
> "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

#### Observation Questions
1. What significant relationships and unity were formed in Rome, Georgia, and why were they important to the speaker? [39:38]
2. How did the speaker describe the challenges faced while pastoring during the 2008 recession? [40:48]
3. What was the speaker's reaction to the call to missions in Scotland, and what were some of the practical challenges mentioned? [43:27]
4. How does the speaker relate the passage from Matthew 4:12-16 to his own calling to Scotland? [50:41]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of unity and brotherhood in ministry? How does this reflect the heart of Christ for His church? [39:38]
2. What does the speaker mean by "obedience over comfort," and how does this principle apply to the decision to move to Scotland? [43:27]
3. How does the speaker's experience during the 2008 recession illustrate the concept of "faith in the face of challenges"? [44:40]
4. In what ways does the speaker's conviction about God's call provide strength and perseverance during difficult times? [49:32]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone in obedience to God's call. How did you handle the challenges that came with it? [43:27]
2. The speaker mentioned the importance of unity and brotherhood in ministry. How can you foster stronger relationships and unity within your own church community? [39:38]
3. Consider the speaker's experience during the 2008 recession. How can you maintain faith and resilience during your own challenging seasons? [40:48]
4. The speaker felt a strong conviction about God's call to Scotland. What is something you feel God is calling you to do, and how can you strengthen your conviction to follow through? [49:32]
5. The speaker mentioned the declining Christian population in Scotland and the need to bring light to spiritual darkness. How can you be a light in your own community, especially in places where faith is declining? [59:38]
6. Reflect on Philippians 1:6. How does the assurance that God will complete the good work He began in you provide peace and confidence in your current journey? [01:08:19]
7. Romans 8:38-39 speaks of being convinced of God's love despite circumstances. How can you remind yourself of God's unwavering love during difficult times? [01:14:08]

Devotional

Day 1: The Power of Unity in Ministry
In the journey of Christian ministry, the relationships and unity formed among believers are invaluable. These bonds of brotherhood, built across denominations and churches, provide strength and encouragement, reflecting the heart of Christ for His church. Unity in the body of Christ is not just a pleasant addition but a fundamental aspect of effective ministry. When believers come together in unity, they embody the love and grace of Christ, creating a powerful testimony to the world. This unity is a source of strength, enabling believers to support one another through challenges and celebrate victories together. [39:38]

Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."

Reflection: Think of a fellow believer from a different denomination or church with whom you can build a stronger relationship. How can you reach out to them this week to foster unity and mutual support?

Day 2: Obedience Over Comfort
God's call often leads us out of our comfort zones and into challenging situations. Obedience to His call is more important than personal comfort or safety. This principle is vividly illustrated through the decision to leave a well-established church for the mission field in Scotland. Obedience to God requires a willingness to step into the unknown, trusting that His plans are greater than our own. It involves prioritizing His will over our desires, even when it means making significant sacrifices. This kind of obedience is a testament to our faith and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. [43:27]

Hebrews 11:8 (ESV): "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."

Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you feel God is calling you to step out of your comfort zone. What steps can you take this week to begin obeying that call, even if it feels challenging or uncertain?

Day 3: Faith in the Face of Challenges
The Christian journey is marked by challenges and difficulties. However, these challenges are opportunities for growth and deeper reliance on God. The story of pastoring during the 2008 recession and the subsequent call to Scotland exemplifies this truth. Challenges test our faith and resilience, pushing us to depend more on God's strength and provision. They refine our character and deepen our relationship with Him. Embracing challenges with faith allows us to experience God's faithfulness and power in new and profound ways. [44:40]

James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Reflection: Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did it impact your faith and reliance on God? What can you learn from that experience to apply to future challenges?

Day 4: The Importance of Spiritual Conviction
Being convinced of God's call is crucial for enduring the hardships that come with it. This conviction provides the strength to persevere and remain faithful, even when the path is unclear or difficult. Spiritual conviction is the inner assurance that God has called you to a specific task or mission. It anchors you in times of doubt and difficulty, reminding you of God's purpose and promises. This conviction is nurtured through prayer, scripture, and a deep relationship with God, enabling you to stand firm in your calling. [49:32]

2 Timothy 1:12 (ESV): "Which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me."

Reflection: Consider a time when you felt a strong conviction about something God was calling you to do. How did that conviction help you persevere through challenges? How can you strengthen your spiritual convictions today?

Day 5: God's Faithfulness in Our Journey
God, who begins a good work in us, is faithful to complete it. Our responsibility is to remain obedient and faithful, trusting that He will bring His plans to fruition. This assurance provides peace and confidence in the midst of uncertainty. God's faithfulness is a constant source of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey. He is with us, guiding and sustaining us every step of the way. Trusting in His faithfulness allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that He will fulfill His promises and complete the work He has started in us. [01:08:19]

Philippians 1:6 (ESV): "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. How did it impact your trust in Him? What steps can you take to remind yourself of His faithfulness in your current circumstances?

Quotes

1. "Because I thought if I'm doing this based on my comfort or if I'm doing this based on what is safe or if I'm doing anything that I'm doing because of the cause of Christ, based on my comfort and my wellbeing, then I'm doing the wrong thing. Because God never called any of us to be comfortable." [43:27] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "But God never called us to be comfortable. He never called us to have a life that's just secure. He called us to live a life of faith and to trust him. You know, if he gave us this wonderful thing called salvation through the blood of Jesus, it cost a great deal for him to live a life of faith and to trust him." [44:40] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "I wonder how that might be similar to maybe some of us. Sometimes I wonder if God might be calling some of us to take a step into something that we might not feel very comfortable with. That might be a bit challenging at sometimes in our lives, but he's calling, but maybe sometimes we just don't pick up, you know, the phone, if you will." [47:00] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "I don't feel comfortable doing certain things God asks me to do. I don't like what he asks me to do sometimes. Hey, why don't you go talk to your neighbor today? I don't want to talk to them. Like, I don't have time to do that right now. Yeah, but I want to talk to them. Can you just give me one day? Can I get one day without you asking me to do anything?" [48:12] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The people who walk in darkness, they will see a great light. For those who live in a dark land, the light will, shine on them again. I read this and I knew exactly what it meant. It's time for you to head out, son. Your hometown has been great to you and you've had a good time here, but I'm asking you to go somewhere where the people there are sitting in darkness, where there's not as much light." [50:41] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "The persistent are the ones who inherit the promises of God. There's no promise of us having an easy life, but there is a promise though. If we will endure, if we will stay steadfast, if we will push through, the promise isn't in this life anyway. It's in that life. And I don't know about you, but this life stinks sometimes." [01:06:50] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "He began it. And then I look at the person you didn't look at that time, maybe you didn't like him, I don't know. Look at this other person beside you and say, and he will finish it. So what does that do for you and I? That is freedom, my friends. Because that tells me I'm not responsible for all the outcomes. My job is to be faithful, to do what he asks me to do." [01:08:19] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "But I can stand and tell you right now, the Lord is good. And the Lord is faithful. He's always, I've never seen the righteous forsaken. is children begging for bread. Now listen, they may not all get Starbucks every week. That's not a promise in the Bible. You might just get some drip coffee from the house today. That's, sometimes that's just the way it is. But I've never been begging for bread." [01:09:51] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "We assume that difficulty sometimes means that God is not with us. I want to encourage you with this. Be convinced on this one thing that first Timothy 6, 12 says we are to fight. The good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you are called. And you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses." [01:12:43] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Paul said it like this. Romans 8 38 says, for I'm convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other thing created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Jesus Christ, our Lord. He's convinced of this. No matter what else he sees, he's convinced that God is with him." [01:14:08] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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