Finding Joy in Witnessing: Advancing Jesus' Kingdom
Summary
### Summary
This morning, we delved into the theme of "Entrusted with the Gospel," focusing on Luke 10:21 and the joy Jesus experienced when His disciples expanded His kingdom. We explored the profound question: What brings Jesus joy? The answer is clear—Jesus is filled with joy when His people advance His kingdom by His power. This joy is not just for Jesus but for us as well, as we find our true purpose and fulfillment in bringing Him joy.
We examined the mission Jesus gave to the 72 disciples, emphasizing that this mission applies to all of us. Jesus sends us out to be His witnesses, not just through words but through our lives and actions. We are called to step out of our comfort zones, travel light, invest in those who are interested, make witnessing a blessing, and leave the converting to Jesus. These steps are not just about fulfilling a duty but about experiencing the deep joy that comes from living out our purpose.
We also addressed common excuses for not witnessing, such as lack of Bible knowledge, being too busy, or feeling too shy. The 72 disciples had no formal training or extensive knowledge; they simply shared their experiences with Jesus. Witnessing is relational and can be integrated into our daily lives. It's about being a friend and sharing our story naturally and authentically.
Ultimately, the joy of witnessing is twofold: it brings joy to Jesus and fills us with joy. When we see the impact of our witness, whether it's a small step or a significant conversion, we experience a joy that is unparalleled. This is what we were made to do—to bring Jesus joy by advancing His kingdom through our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. Jesus' Joy in Our Witness: Jesus is filled with joy when His people expand His kingdom by His power. This joy is not just for Jesus but for us as well. When we live out our purpose as His witnesses, we experience deep and lasting joy. Our primary purpose is to bring Jesus joy, and in doing so, we find our own joy and fulfillment. [33:56]
2. Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Jesus calls us to step out of our comfort zones and into radical obedience. This involves taking risks, facing potential rejection, and depending on Him daily. True joy is found in this zone of radical dependence, where we rely on Jesus for guidance, protection, and empowerment in our witness. [58:04]
3. Traveling Light: Jesus advises us to travel light, both physically and spiritually. This means not getting bogged down by material possessions or distractions. By traveling light, we can focus more on our mission and give generously of our time and resources to advance His kingdom. [59:29]
4. Investing in the Interested: We should invest our time and energy in those who are open and receptive to the gospel. Jesus instructed His disciples to move on if their message was not welcomed. This teaches us to focus on fertile ground, where our witness can take root and grow, rather than wasting time on closed minds. [01:01:06]
5. Making Witnessing a Blessing: Witnessing should be seen as a blessing, not a burden. Sharing our story of what Jesus has done in our lives is the greatest gift we can offer others. It's about building relationships, listening to others' stories, and showing compassion. When we witness in this way, we bless others and experience the joy of fulfilling our purpose. [01:02:47]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:20] - Introduction to the Series
[33:07] - Jesus' Exuberant Joy
[33:56] - Our Purpose: Bringing Jesus Joy
[34:34] - Planned for God's Pleasure
[35:16] - Reading from Luke 10
[36:43] - The Mission of the 72 Disciples
[37:14] - Authority Over the Enemy
[38:18] - What Brings Jesus Joy
[39:26] - Being Part of God's Story
[40:36] - Every Battle is Jesus' Battle
[41:38] - Practical Examples of Witnessing
[43:16] - Common Excuses for Not Witnessing
[45:05] - Just Tell Your Story
[47:32] - Witnessing is Relational
[50:56] - The Command to All Believers
[52:31] - No Spectators in God's Kingdom
[54:20] - We Are All Missionaries
[56:19] - Joy in Advancing the Kingdom
[58:04] - Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
[59:29] - Travel Light
[01:01:06] - Invest in the Interested
[01:02:47] - Make Witnessing a Blessing
[01:09:47] - Leave the Converting to Jesus
[01:12:16] - Be a Blesser
[01:14:07] - Conclusion and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Luke 10:1-12, 16-24 (NLT)
#### Observation Questions
1. What specific instructions did Jesus give to the 72 disciples when He sent them out? ([35:16])
2. How did the 72 disciples respond when they returned from their mission, and what was Jesus' reaction? ([37:14])
3. According to the sermon, what brings Jesus joy, and how is this connected to the mission of the 72 disciples? ([38:18])
4. What are some common excuses people give for not witnessing, as mentioned in the sermon? ([43:16])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus advise His disciples to "travel light" and how does this principle apply to our spiritual journey today? ([59:29])
2. How does investing in those who are interested in the gospel differ from trying to convince those who are not receptive? ([01:01:06])
3. What does it mean to make witnessing a blessing rather than a burden, and how can this perspective change our approach to sharing our faith? ([01:02:47])
4. How does the concept of leaving the converting to Jesus relieve the pressure of witnessing, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this process? ([01:09:47])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone for Jesus. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your faith? ([58:04])
2. Identify one area in your life where you can "travel light" to focus more on your mission. What practical steps can you take to simplify and prioritize your spiritual journey? ([59:29])
3. Think of someone in your life who is open to the gospel. How can you invest more time and energy in building a relationship with them this week? ([01:01:06])
4. How can you shift your mindset to see witnessing as a blessing? Share a specific way you can bless someone with your story of faith this week. ([01:02:47])
5. What is one excuse you have used for not witnessing, and how can you overcome it? Share a practical step you can take to be more active in sharing your faith. ([43:16])
6. Reflect on a recent interaction where you felt pressured to convince someone about Jesus. How can you focus more on being a blessing and leave the converting to Jesus in future interactions? ([01:09:47])
7. Jesus finds joy when His people advance His kingdom. What specific action can you take this week to bring joy to Jesus by being His witness? ([38:18])
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus' Joy in Our Witness
Jesus is filled with joy when His people expand His kingdom by His power. This joy is not just for Jesus but for us as well. When we live out our purpose as His witnesses, we experience deep and lasting joy. Our primary purpose is to bring Jesus joy, and in doing so, we find our own joy and fulfillment. [33:56]
Luke 10:21 (ESV): "In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, 'I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.'"
Reflection: Think of a recent moment when you shared your faith or helped someone in need. How did it make you feel? Can you identify the joy that comes from fulfilling your purpose in Christ?
Day 2: Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
Jesus calls us to step out of our comfort zones and into radical obedience. This involves taking risks, facing potential rejection, and depending on Him daily. True joy is found in this zone of radical dependence, where we rely on Jesus for guidance, protection, and empowerment in our witness. [58:04]
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith. What practical steps can you take today to move out of your comfort zone and rely more on Jesus?
Day 3: Traveling Light
Jesus advises us to travel light, both physically and spiritually. This means not getting bogged down by material possessions or distractions. By traveling light, we can focus more on our mission and give generously of our time and resources to advance His kingdom. [59:29]
Hebrews 12:1 (ESV): "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."
Reflection: What are some "weights" in your life that are hindering your spiritual journey? How can you begin to lay them aside to focus more on your mission for Christ?
Day 4: Investing in the Interested
We should invest our time and energy in those who are open and receptive to the gospel. Jesus instructed His disciples to move on if their message was not welcomed. This teaches us to focus on fertile ground, where our witness can take root and grow, rather than wasting time on closed minds. [01:01:06]
Matthew 10:14 (ESV): "And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who is open to hearing about Jesus. How can you invest more time and energy in nurturing that relationship and sharing the gospel with them?
Day 5: Making Witnessing a Blessing
Witnessing should be seen as a blessing, not a burden. Sharing our story of what Jesus has done in our lives is the greatest gift we can offer others. It's about building relationships, listening to others' stories, and showing compassion. When we witness in this way, we bless others and experience the joy of fulfilling our purpose. [01:02:47]
1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
Reflection: Reflect on your personal testimony. How can you share your story with someone this week in a way that is natural, compassionate, and respectful?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The primary purpose of our life is to live in a way. That brings Jesus joy. Revelation chapter 4 verse 11. Says you Lord created everything. And it is for your pleasure. They exist. You and I were planned for God's pleasure. You and I were designed for God's delight. And we will never find meaning or purpose. Or satisfaction. Or joy. Unless we are doing what we made to do. Unless we are living in a way. That brings Jesus joy." [34:34] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus is filled with joy. When his people are expanding his kingdom. By his power. Jesus is thrilled with joy. When we are telling other people. What Jesus' power has done in our life. When we are showing other people. What Jesus' power has done in our life. By the way we live. And by the fruits of the spirit. Jesus is thrilled with joy. When we let his power. Change us. Flow through us. Advance his kingdom. Rescue his lost sheep. Set people free from guilt and shame. And heal them. And heal broken hearts. Broken homes. And broken lives." [38:55] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The way we bring Jesus joy. Is simple. But it's not easy. So we say. Well Jesus. I'll support the missionaries. And the evangelists. I'll pray for them. And I'll give money for them. I'll volunteer to work in the church building. But don't expect me. To be a witness. That's just not who I am. I'm too busy Jesus. I don't have the time. To be a witness. I don't know enough of the Bible. They will ask me questions. And I won't know the answers. I'm too shy. I just don't have the right personality." [43:16] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You don't need Bible knowledge. You just need the knowledge of what you have seen. What you have heard. And Jesus has done for you. And then you know how to present it. Very quickly and concisely. What about our next excuse. Maybe you say. I'm too busy. I don't have the time. Right? The 72 disciples didn't have the time. They had full time jobs. They had families to support. They didn't have the time. They made the time. And the truth is. We all make the time for the things that are important to us. Don't we?" [45:36] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The beautiful thing about witnessing. Is that it is relational. You do it with the people you already know. You do it with the people who are your friends. So if you have time for friends. You have time for witnessing. Most of you probably eat two or three meals a day. Right? Eat some of your meals. With a friend who needs to know Jesus. Maybe you bike. Maybe you do sports. Maybe you have hobbies. Maybe you work out at the gym. Well do your biking. Do your sports. Do your workout. Do your hobbies. With a friend who needs to know Jesus." [48:06] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Jesus joy came. Because his people were expanding his kingdom. By his power. Jesus is filled with joy. When his people are expanding his kingdom. By his power. Jesus is thrilled with joy. When we are telling other people. What Jesus' power has done in our life. When we are showing other people. What Jesus' power has done in our life. By the way we live. And by the fruits of the spirit. Jesus is thrilled with joy. When we let his power. Change us. Flow through us. Advance his kingdom. Rescue his lost sheep. Set people free from guilt and shame. And heal them. And heal broken hearts. Broken homes. And broken lives." [38:18] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Every battle that you fight. Is part of Jesus battle. Against the kingdom. Of darkness. Every triumph of yours. Is a triumph of his. Every time you win a victory. Between yourself and Satan. And every time. That you win the victory. By inviting someone to step. From the kingdom of darkness. To the kingdom of light. Jesus sees Satan fall. And his heart explodes with joy. Because it's a picture. Of the victory he won. At the cross of Calvary. And it's a picture. Of the day when he will return. And rule on this earth. And Satan will be vanquished." [41:04] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You don't need to have all the answers because it's not a debate. You don't have to have the answers. You just have to tell your story. You don't need to have extra time. You just need to have time for friends. The next excuse we give is I'm too shy. I don't have the right personality. People are better witnesses. You know, I'm an introvert. I can't think fast on my feet. But the truth is, when Jesus said, go, I am sending you, was talking to all of us." [50:56] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You do the blessing. You leave the converting to Jesus. Listen to these verses 17 Lord even the demons obey us when we use your name whose name and authority and power is it Jesus Jesus says look I have given you authority over the power of the enemy whose authority has been given to us Jesus whose authority has been given to us Jesus says look I have given you authority over the power of the enemy Mark 3 verse six Jesus says father thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever and revealing them to the childlike who's doing the revealing to people who need Jesus God is My Father has entrusted everything to me No one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Father chooses to reveal them. Who is revealing God to people? Jesus is." [01:09:47] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You see, God made us so that what brings Jesus joy brings us joy. God made us so that what brings Jesus joy is what brings us joy. So find out what brings Jesus joy and do that if you want to have joy and Jesus is filled with joy when his people are advancing his kingdom by his power by being witnesses and if you miss that you'll never find the deep and lasting joy and purpose and meaning and fulfillment in life that your heart longs for because it's what you were made to do." [56:19] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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