Finishing the Race: Embracing God's Healing and Commitment
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the grace of God and the power of His healing. We began by acknowledging the importance of following the Lord's direction, even when it means changing our plans. This led us to a powerful moment of prayer and healing for those suffering from head and back issues. We laid hands on them, believing in the promise of Mark 16 that those who believe and lay hands on the sick will see them recover. This act of faith was a testament to our collective belief in God's healing power.
We then transitioned to the main theme: the importance of finishing our course in Christ. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical examples, we explored the significance of not just starting our journey with Christ but finishing it well. We looked at the lives of Jesus and the Apostle Paul, both of whom were committed to completing the work God had given them. Jesus' determination to finish His mission, even in the face of immense suffering, serves as a powerful example for us. Similarly, Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 about fighting the good fight and finishing the race underscores the importance of perseverance in our faith journey.
We also discussed the concept of eternal rewards and the crown of righteousness that awaits those who love Christ's appearing. This eternal perspective helps us make decisions that align with God's will, keeping our focus on our heavenly destiny. The story of a woman who received a miraculous healing but later backslid highlighted the need for ongoing commitment and community support to sustain our faith.
Finally, we extended an invitation for those who have never received Christ or have backslidden to come forward and recommit their lives to Him. We prayed together, asking for God's grace to help us finish what we have started in our walk with Christ. This collective commitment to continue with the Lord was a powerful way to conclude our time together.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Obedience and Healing: Following God's direction, even when it disrupts our plans, can lead to powerful moments of healing and transformation. When we laid hands on those suffering from head and back issues, we witnessed the fulfillment of God's promise in Mark 16:18. This act of faith not only brought physical healing but also strengthened our collective belief in God's power. [30:15]
2. Finishing the Race: Starting our journey with Christ is important, but finishing it well is crucial. Jesus and Paul both exemplified a commitment to completing the work God gave them. Jesus' determination to finish His mission, even in the face of immense suffering, serves as a powerful example for us. Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 about fighting the good fight and finishing the race underscores the importance of perseverance in our faith journey. [41:36]
3. Eternal Perspective: Keeping our focus on our heavenly destiny helps us make decisions that align with God's will. The crown of righteousness awaits those who love Christ's appearing, reminding us that our actions on earth have eternal consequences. This eternal perspective encourages us to live in a way that honors God and prepares us for our ultimate destiny in heaven. [01:01:42]
4. Community and Commitment: The story of the woman who received a miraculous healing but later backslid highlights the need for ongoing commitment and community support. Being part of a church community helps us stay accountable and encourages us to grow in our faith. It's not enough to experience a moment of transformation; we need to sustain our faith through continuous commitment and support from fellow believers. [46:56]
5. Invitation to Recommit: For those who have never received Christ or have backslidden, today is an opportunity to recommit their lives to Him. God's grace is always available, and He welcomes us back with open arms. By praying together and asking for God's help, we can renew our commitment to finish what we have started in our walk with Christ. This collective commitment strengthens our resolve and helps us stay on course. [01:24:49]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:15] - Following God's Direction
[31:04] - Healing Prayer for Head Issues
[35:06] - Healing Prayer for Back Issues
[41:36] - The Importance of Finishing Well
[46:56] - Story of Miraculous Healing and Backsliding
[01:01:42] - Eternal Perspective and Rewards
[01:24:49] - Collective Commitment to Finish the Race
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Mark 16:17-18: "And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
2. 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."
3. Ecclesiastes 7:8: "The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride."
#### Observation Questions
1. What promise does Mark 16:17-18 give to those who believe and lay hands on the sick? How was this demonstrated in the sermon? [31:04]
2. According to 2 Timothy 4:7-8, what are the three things Paul says he has done in his faith journey? How does this relate to the sermon's emphasis on finishing well? [41:36]
3. Ecclesiastes 7:8 states that "the end of a matter is better than its beginning." How does this verse tie into the sermon's message about the importance of finishing our course in Christ? [48:21]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the act of laying hands on the sick, as described in Mark 16:17-18, strengthen the collective faith of a church community? [31:04]
2. In 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Paul speaks about fighting the good fight and finishing the race. What does this suggest about the nature of the Christian journey and the challenges one might face? [41:36]
3. Ecclesiastes 7:8 mentions that "patience is better than pride." How can this principle be applied to our spiritual journey, especially in the context of finishing well? [48:21]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you followed God's direction, even when it disrupted your plans. How did this experience impact your faith and the faith of those around you? [30:15]
2. The sermon highlighted the importance of finishing our course in Christ. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are not just starting well but also finishing well in your faith journey? [41:36]
3. How can maintaining an eternal perspective, as discussed in the sermon, influence your daily decisions and actions? What specific changes can you make to align more closely with this perspective? [01:01:42]
4. The story of the woman who received a miraculous healing but later backslid underscores the need for community support. How can you actively contribute to the spiritual growth and accountability of your church community? [46:56]
5. If you have ever felt like you were backsliding in your faith, what steps did you take to recommit your life to Christ? How can you support others who might be in a similar situation? [01:24:49]
6. Think about the concept of the crown of righteousness mentioned in 2 Timothy 4:8. How does this promise motivate you to persevere in your faith journey? What specific actions can you take to keep this promise in mind? [41:36]
7. The sermon concluded with a collective commitment to finish the race. What are some ways you can remind yourself and others of this commitment in your daily life? How can you hold each other accountable to this goal? [01:24:49]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Obedience and Healing
Description: Following God's direction, even when it disrupts our plans, can lead to powerful moments of healing and transformation. When we laid hands on those suffering from head and back issues, we witnessed the fulfillment of God's promise in Mark 16:18. This act of faith not only brought physical healing but also strengthened our collective belief in God's power. [30:15]
When we choose to obey God's direction, even if it means altering our plans, we open ourselves up to His miraculous works. In moments of prayer and laying on of hands, we see the tangible evidence of God's healing power. This obedience is not just about physical healing but also about spiritual growth and collective faith. By stepping out in faith, we allow God to work through us, bringing healing and transformation to those in need.
Obedience to God often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and trust in His promises. As we witnessed during the healing prayers, God's power is made manifest when we act in faith. This experience serves as a reminder that our obedience can lead to profound moments of divine intervention, strengthening our faith and the faith of those around us.
Bible Passage: "And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover." (Mark 16:17-18, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt God prompting you to change your plans. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How can you be more open to following God's direction in your daily life?
Day 2: Finishing the Race
Description: Starting our journey with Christ is important, but finishing it well is crucial. Jesus and Paul both exemplified a commitment to completing the work God gave them. Jesus' determination to finish His mission, even in the face of immense suffering, serves as a powerful example for us. Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 about fighting the good fight and finishing the race underscores the importance of perseverance in our faith journey. [41:36]
The journey of faith is not just about how we start but how we finish. Jesus' unwavering commitment to His mission, despite the immense suffering He faced, is a powerful example for us. Similarly, Paul's words in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 remind us of the importance of perseverance. He speaks of fighting the good fight and finishing the race, emphasizing that our faith journey requires endurance and dedication.
Finishing well means staying true to our faith, even when challenges arise. It involves a continuous commitment to God's work and a determination to see it through to the end. By looking at the lives of Jesus and Paul, we are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that the ultimate reward awaits those who persevere.
Bible Passage: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." (2 Timothy 4:7-8, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on your own faith journey. What are some challenges you have faced, and how have you persevered? What steps can you take to ensure you finish your race well?
Day 3: Eternal Perspective
Description: Keeping our focus on our heavenly destiny helps us make decisions that align with God's will. The crown of righteousness awaits those who love Christ's appearing, reminding us that our actions on earth have eternal consequences. This eternal perspective encourages us to live in a way that honors God and prepares us for our ultimate destiny in heaven. [01:01:42]
An eternal perspective shifts our focus from the temporary to the everlasting. When we keep our eyes on our heavenly destiny, we are reminded that our actions on earth have eternal consequences. The promise of the crown of righteousness for those who love Christ's appearing serves as a powerful motivator to live in a way that honors God.
This perspective helps us make decisions that align with God's will, knowing that our ultimate reward is not of this world but in heaven. By focusing on our eternal destiny, we are encouraged to live faithfully, making choices that reflect our commitment to Christ and His kingdom.
Bible Passage: "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." (Colossians 3:2-4, ESV)
Reflection: How does keeping an eternal perspective influence your daily decisions? What changes can you make to ensure your actions align with your heavenly destiny?
Day 4: Community and Commitment
Description: The story of the woman who received a miraculous healing but later backslid highlights the need for ongoing commitment and community support. Being part of a church community helps us stay accountable and encourages us to grow in our faith. It's not enough to experience a moment of transformation; we need to sustain our faith through continuous commitment and support from fellow believers. [46:56]
The journey of faith is not meant to be walked alone. The story of the woman who experienced miraculous healing but later backslid underscores the importance of ongoing commitment and community support. Transformation is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires dedication and the encouragement of fellow believers.
Being part of a church community provides the accountability and support needed to sustain our faith. It helps us stay committed to our walk with Christ, offering encouragement, guidance, and prayer. By engaging with our church family, we can grow in our faith and remain steadfast in our commitment to God.
Bible Passage: "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." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection: How has being part of a church community helped you in your faith journey? What steps can you take to deepen your commitment and support others in their walk with Christ?
Day 5: Invitation to Recommit
Description: For those who have never received Christ or have backslidden, today is an opportunity to recommit their lives to Him. God's grace is always available, and He welcomes us back with open arms. By praying together and asking for God's help, we can renew our commitment to finish what we have started in our walk with Christ. This collective commitment strengthens our resolve and helps us stay on course. [01:24:49]
God's grace is always available, offering us the opportunity to recommit our lives to Him. Whether we have never received Christ or have backslidden, today is a chance to renew our commitment. God welcomes us back with open arms, ready to help us finish what we have started in our walk with Him.
By praying together and seeking God's help, we can strengthen our resolve and stay on course. This collective commitment not only renews our individual faith but also unites us as a community, encouraging us to support one another in our journey with Christ.
Bible Passage: "Return to me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts." (Zechariah 1:3b, ESV)
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you need to recommit to Christ? Take a moment to pray and ask for God's grace to help you renew your commitment and stay on course in your walk with Him.
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When we receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we've just begun. We have just started and so we want to get off to a great start... because some Christians live life and their horizon goes no for no more than this planet but isn't there a destiny we're going to and what's that destiny called heaven that's our final place that's our destiny." [43:04] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I fought the good fight, I finished my course, and I kept the faith. Now this is now, now go down the next verse, look at this, this is so cool. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me... but also to all that's us who have loved his appearing." [01:01:42] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If Jesus Christ were to come today for his church, for God's family, for God's kids... do you know that you know that you know without a doubt you would make it to heaven? And most of you will say yes, it's an important question but not everybody in this congregation can say yes... we need to know." [01:17:48] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Father, thank you for Jesus Christ. I believe with all my heart he raised from the dead. And Jesus, I know you're alive, hearing my prayer right now. So Lord, I take self off the throne of my heart, and I invite you to sit on the throne of my heart, and be my Lord, be my Master, and my wonderful Savior. I receive this now in Jesus' name, amen." [01:22:38] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "So what we're going to talk about is it's just not how you start it's how you finish... starting's one thing but finishing's another... in the same way we all have our race in Christ when we receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior we've just begun we have just started." [41:36] (88 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I fought the good fight, I finished the race, and I kept the faith. All this pressure on him to deny the faith and pull back from the faith and he said I fought the good fight that's the good fight of faith... we don't fight the devil he's been defeated we fight the good fight of faith." [01:00:12] (-13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And now little children abide in him abide in Christ that when he appears we may have confidence and not be ashamed before him at his coming... if he showed up I'd have been ashamed because I wasn't abiding but now thank God after that 1979 not been perfect at all but if he were to show up I would look up and just yeah come Lord Jesus come." [01:16:00] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "How many of you are willing, by the grace of Almighty God, to make a determination, I want to finish what I started? How many of you are willing to do that? And if so, then this prayer will work. And it's by the grace of God. So let's pray this, church. This is what this is all about right here." [01:24:49] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Father, thank you for salvation. Thank you for working in me. What pleases you. And now, Lord, I purpose in my heart and by your grace to finish, to finish, to finish, to what I started. Holy Spirit, I invite you to work in me that finishing work. I receive it now in Jesus' name. Amen." [01:25:31] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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