Finding Peace and Community Through Christ's Example
Summary
### Summary
In today's gathering, we reflected on the comforting words of Jesus from John 16:33, where He assures us of peace despite the trials and tribulations we face in the world. Jesus' declaration, "I have overcome the world," serves as a powerful reminder that He has already triumphed over our struggles. We took a moment to honor the lives of two faithful servants, Mark Chip Chase and Miss Jean, who have recently passed away. While we mourn their loss, we celebrate their graduation to heaven and the legacy of faith they leave behind.
We then transitioned into a time of communal prayer, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another in our individual struggles, or "this," as we called it. Whether it's a physical ailment, a family issue, or a financial problem, we laid it all down at the feet of Jesus, trusting in His healing and peace.
Our ongoing series, "Table Talk," has been a journey through the Gospel of Luke, focusing on the meals Jesus shared and the profound lessons He taught during those times. Today, we had the privilege of hearing from three men in our School of Church Leadership, who continued this exploration. They highlighted how Jesus used meals to build relationships, teach life principles, and prepare His followers for spiritual battles.
We also discussed the significance of food in our lives, sharing personal memories and favorite meals from our childhood. This led to a broader conversation about how we can use our everyday meals to bless others, following Jesus' example of breaking bread with people from all walks of life. We were encouraged to reach out to someone in need this week, offering them the gift of our time and a shared meal.
Finally, we were reminded of the importance of community and accountability, as exemplified by Jesus' interactions with His disciples and others. We were encouraged to be intentional in our relationships, offering both encouragement and accountability to those around us.
### Key Takeaways
1. Jesus' Assurance of Peace: Jesus' words in John 16:33 remind us that despite the inevitable trials and tribulations we face, we can find peace in Him. His victory over the world assures us that our struggles are not insurmountable. This peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ in our lives, guiding us through every challenge. [17:56]
2. The Power of Communal Prayer: In times of personal struggle, the support of a faith community is invaluable. By praying together and for one another, we embody the love and unity that Jesus desires for His followers. This collective prayer strengthens our faith and reminds us that we are not alone in our battles. [19:19]
3. Lessons from "Table Talk": Jesus used meals as opportunities to teach and build relationships. Whether it was the Last Supper, dinner with Mary and Martha, or feeding the 5,000, these moments were filled with life-changing lessons. We are encouraged to use our meals similarly, to deepen our relationships and share the wisdom of Christ. [32:14]
4. Using Food to Bless Others: Food has a unique way of bringing people together. By sharing meals, we can extend love and support to those in need. This simple act can be a powerful ministry, reflecting Jesus' own practice of breaking bread with others to teach, heal, and build community. [56:52]
5. Intentional Relationships and Accountability: True friendships in Christ involve both encouragement and accountability. We need friends who can lovingly call us out on our shortcomings and support us in our spiritual growth. This mutual accountability helps us stay on the right path and grow stronger in our faith. [59:30]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:56] - Honoring Faithful Servants
[19:19] - Communal Prayer and Support
[32:14] - Introduction to "Table Talk"
[54:54] - Reflections on Food and Community
[56:52] - Using Food to Bless Others
[59:30] - Importance of Accountability
[01:00:14] - Encouragement to Reach Out
[01:06:46] - Prayer for Outreach
[01:07:17] - Invitation to Relationship with Jesus
[01:09:08] - Closing and Next Steps
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 16:33 - "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."
2. Luke 24:30-31 - "When he was at the table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight."
3. Revelation 3:20 - "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."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus promise us in John 16:33 about the trials we face in the world? How does He assure us of peace? [19:19]
2. In Luke 24:30-31, what significant event happens when Jesus breaks the bread with His disciples? How do they respond? [57:56]
3. According to Revelation 3:20, what does Jesus say He will do if we open the door to Him? How does this relate to the concept of sharing a meal together? [01:07:17]
4. How did the sermon describe the role of communal prayer in supporting one another through personal struggles? [19:19]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Jesus' assurance of peace in John 16:33 help us understand the nature of the peace He offers? How is this peace different from the absence of trouble? [19:19]
2. What can we learn from Jesus' use of meals to teach and build relationships, as seen in the Gospel of Luke? How can we apply this in our own lives? [32:14]
3. In what ways does the act of sharing a meal with someone reflect Jesus' ministry and teachings? How can this be a form of ministry in our daily lives? [56:52]
4. How does the concept of intentional relationships and accountability, as discussed in the sermon, align with Jesus' interactions with His disciples? Why is this important for our spiritual growth? [59:30]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced peace in the midst of a difficult situation. How did your faith in Jesus help you through it? How can you seek His peace in your current struggles? [19:19]
2. Think about your own "this" – a personal struggle or challenge you are facing. How can you bring this to Jesus in prayer and seek support from your faith community? [19:19]
3. Jesus used meals to build relationships and teach life principles. Identify one person you can invite for a meal this week to deepen your relationship and share your faith. What steps will you take to make this happen? [56:52]
4. Consider the significance of food in your own life. How can you use your everyday meals to bless others, especially those in need? What specific actions can you take this week to follow Jesus' example? [56:52]
5. Reflect on your current relationships. Are there friends who provide both encouragement and accountability? How can you be more intentional in offering this to others? [59:30]
6. Jesus calls us to reach out to those in need. Identify one person in your life who might need encouragement or support. How can you reach out to them this week, perhaps through a shared meal or a simple act of kindness? [01:06:46]
7. How can you cultivate a habit of communal prayer in your life? What steps can you take to pray more regularly with others and support them in their struggles? [19:19]
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus' Assurance of Peace
In John 16:33, Jesus offers a profound assurance of peace to His followers, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. He declares, "I have overcome the world," reminding us that His victory is already accomplished. This peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ in our lives, guiding us through every challenge. When we face difficulties, we can find solace in knowing that Jesus has already triumphed over them, and His peace is available to us.
This assurance is a call to trust in Jesus' sovereignty and His ability to bring us through any situation. It encourages us to shift our focus from our problems to His presence, allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds. As we navigate life's challenges, we can rest in the confidence that Jesus' victory is our victory, and His peace is our strength. [17:56]
John 14:27 (ESV): "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
Reflection: What specific trial or tribulation are you facing today? How can you invite Jesus' peace into that situation and trust in His victory over it?
Day 2: The Power of Communal Prayer
Communal prayer is a powerful expression of unity and support within the faith community. When we come together to pray, we embody the love and unity that Jesus desires for His followers. This collective prayer strengthens our faith and reminds us that we are not alone in our battles. By praying together and for one another, we create a supportive environment where individuals can share their struggles and receive encouragement.
In times of personal struggle, the support of a faith community is invaluable. Whether it's a physical ailment, a family issue, or a financial problem, laying it all down at the feet of Jesus in communal prayer brings healing and peace. This practice not only strengthens our individual faith but also fosters a sense of belonging and mutual care within the community. [19:19]
James 5:16 (ESV): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
Reflection: Think of a specific struggle you are currently facing. How can you share this with your faith community and invite them to pray with you and for you?
Day 3: Lessons from "Table Talk"
Jesus often used meals as opportunities to teach and build relationships. Whether it was the Last Supper, dinner with Mary and Martha, or feeding the 5,000, these moments were filled with life-changing lessons. Through these shared meals, Jesus demonstrated the importance of community, hospitality, and spiritual nourishment. He used these gatherings to impart wisdom, offer comfort, and prepare His followers for spiritual battles.
In our own lives, we can follow Jesus' example by using our meals to deepen relationships and share the wisdom of Christ. By inviting others to our tables, we create spaces for meaningful conversations and spiritual growth. These moments of fellowship can be transformative, as we break bread together and reflect on the teachings of Jesus. [32:14]
Luke 24:30-31 (ESV): "When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight."
Reflection: Who can you invite to share a meal with this week? How can you use this time to build a deeper relationship and share the teachings of Jesus?
Day 4: Using Food to Bless Others
Food has a unique way of bringing people together and creating a sense of community. By sharing meals, we can extend love and support to those in need. This simple act can be a powerful ministry, reflecting Jesus' own practice of breaking bread with others to teach, heal, and build community. Whether it's inviting a neighbor for dinner or providing a meal for someone in need, these acts of kindness can have a profound impact.
As we reflect on the significance of food in our lives, we are encouraged to use our everyday meals to bless others. By following Jesus' example, we can create opportunities for connection, healing, and spiritual growth. This week, consider how you can use the gift of food to reach out to someone in need and offer them the love and support of Christ. [56:52]
Isaiah 58:7 (ESV): "Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?"
Reflection: Think of someone in your community who might be in need of a meal or companionship. How can you reach out to them this week and offer the gift of a shared meal?
Day 5: Intentional Relationships and Accountability
True friendships in Christ involve both encouragement and accountability. We need friends who can lovingly call us out on our shortcomings and support us in our spiritual growth. This mutual accountability helps us stay on the right path and grow stronger in our faith. Jesus' interactions with His disciples and others exemplify the importance of intentional relationships and accountability.
Being intentional in our relationships means investing time and effort into building deep, meaningful connections. It involves offering both encouragement and constructive feedback, helping one another grow in faith and character. As we cultivate these relationships, we create a supportive network that strengthens our spiritual journey and keeps us accountable to our commitments. [59:30]
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV): "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Reflection: Who in your life can you turn to for both encouragement and accountability? How can you be more intentional in nurturing this relationship and supporting each other's spiritual growth?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "So you may have a this today you're this may be a physical problem you're this may be a family issue something going on financially whatever your this is we're going to pray about that gonna do something just a little bit different we did this in the first service we are a family I wanna surround those of you who may need prayer today so if you're comfortable would you just take the hand of somebody next to you put your hand on your shoulder make a new friend it's okay we are brothers and sisters in Christ and we are going to pray we're going to pray we are brothers and sisters one for another so that no one is standing alone today in their this." [18:30] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What I'd like for you to do today, what I want you to do right now is think about one person that you could reach out to this week. Maybe you could call that person, family or friend, neighbor. Say, hey, let's grab a cup of coffee. I just want to check on you. I want to see how you're doing. I don't want anything from you. I want to see how you're doing. And if you're taking notes, I'd like for you to write that person's name down then be purposeful to call them this week." [01:06:13] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Look, Jesus is saying, Hey, I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and you'll open the door, I'll come in and we'll just share a meal together as friends. See, I love that. He doesn't come in and say, Hey, I'm going to make you change everything in your life. I'm going to tell you all the areas of your life that are going wrong. He says, I'll share a meal together with you as friends." [01:07:17] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Dear God, thank you for sending your son to be my friend. Today, I ask him to forgive me of my sins and come in and share a meal with me. I want to transfer my trust to Jesus be his best friend. In Jesus name. Amen and amen." [01:08:42] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "So for the past few weeks, we've been in the series Table Talk. We've been looking into Luke's Gospel, where Jesus is either going to a meal, sitting at a meal, or coming from a meal. But the series just hasn't been about the food that he's eaten. It's been about what he has taught us. It's been about the wisdom in his message, and the messages of grace and the mission where he is leading us as we discover life principles that you and I can live by." [32:14] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "He taught us life-changing principles on the road to Emmaus. Take Him with you. He's there for you. He taught us to slow down and just be in His presence with dinner with Mary and Martha. He loved the unloved. Jesus ate with the tax collectors, right? Zacchaeus. Nobody thought He would ever do that. Take a little bit of time and serve your community as He fed the 5,000." [58:44] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Sometimes as we sit together with friends, not only do we need to be encouraged or encourage someone, but I want my friends, my true friends, be able to call me out and say, Hey, Tim, you need to get it together in this area. I have a few men that I meet regularly with or we talk on the phone, and they have the ability to call me out on my stuff and keep me accountable, but also keep me encouraged in that same moment." [59:30] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You don't have to be a great cook or a master gardener or a restaurant owner to bless others. We take our little, we give it to the master who is the great multiplier as long as we are willing to be his servant." [01:05:44] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Here at the Father's House, we have a group of men and women who are trained, and we call them freedom coaches. Our freedom coaches are not clinicians. They are simply brothers and sisters in Christ that have went through some specific training that are willing to listen over a cup of coffee, over a meal, over a text, over a phone call, whatever it is. These brothers and sisters are here for you." [01:00:51] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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