Focusing on Christ: Unity and Mission in the Church
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the centrality of Jesus in the lives of believers, urging them to resist worldly temptations and idols that may detract from their focus on Christ. The speaker calls for a transformation in the congregation, encouraging them to become doers of the word and to actively engage in the mission of reaching out to those beyond the church walls. The importance of unity and teamwork within the church is highlighted, with references to Paul's care for the Colossians and the example of Epaphras, who worked diligently for the church.
The speaker praises God's humility and sacrifice on the cross, urging the congregation to repent and strive to emulate Jesus. The roles of various individuals within the early church are acknowledged, and the speaker sends greetings to brothers in different locations. The global mission of making disciples is emphasized, with gratitude expressed for missionaries and church networks. The speaker reminds the congregation that blessings are meant for a greater purpose, not for comfort, and that every individual has a role in the mission.
The role of church elders is discussed, noting their responsibility to oversee the church's direction and focus on making disciples. The speaker acknowledges the elders' imperfections but emphasizes their commitment to magnifying Jesus and holding each other accountable. The importance of forgiveness and unity within the church family is also stressed, with a call to resolve conflicts through humble conversations and extend mercy and grace to one another.
The speaker reflects on the desertion of leaders who failed to live out their faith and warns against allowing worldly things to take precedence over Christ. The congregation is challenged to examine their lives and ensure that Christ remains central. The speaker introduces a game to illustrate the concept of making disciples and emphasizes the church's purpose of refueling and expanding God's kingdom through intentional disciple-making.
The sermon also addresses the importance of all believers contributing to the gospel mission, with specific responsibilities given to the Believers in Colossi. The speaker involves the congregation in a demonstration to reinforce the impact of everyone working together. The relevance of studying the history found in Colossians 4 is discussed, with the speaker drawing parallels to the present mission of the church. The importance of having leaders to keep the church focused on its mission is underscored, with examples from Paul's Apostolic team.
Finally, the speaker discusses the relationship between Paul and Mark, highlighting the importance of reconciliation and unity within the team. The speaker also focuses on the need to struggle for the benefit of others, as exemplified by Paul's prayers for the believers' spiritual growth. The example of Onesimus and Philemon is used to emphasize the importance of treating others as equals and forgiving one another.
Key Takeaways:
- The centrality of Jesus in the believer's life is paramount, and maintaining this focus requires intentional resistance to worldly distractions and temptations. The transformation into doers of the word is a response to the greatness and glory of Jesus, and it is a continuous process that involves seeking forgiveness and realigning priorities when they stray from Christ. [01:15:35]
- The mission of the church extends beyond its walls, and believers are called to be intentional in their various spheres of influence. This mission involves recognizing that God has placed individuals in specific contexts to carry out His work, and it requires unity and teamwork, as exemplified by Paul and Epaphras in their care for the Colossian church. [58:44]
- The global mission of spreading the good news of Jesus is not just for missionaries or church leaders but for every believer. The church is compared to an aircraft carrier, with the purpose of refueling believers for the mission of expanding God's kingdom. This mission involves active participation and contribution from each individual. [49:55]
- Forgiveness and unity within the church are crucial for maintaining a healthy body of believers. Conflicts and tensions should be addressed through humble conversations, confession, and extending mercy and grace, reflecting the forgiveness and unity that believers have in Christ. [01:08:02]
- Leadership within the church plays a vital role in maintaining the focus on the mission of making disciples. Leaders are not perfect, but they are called to magnify Jesus in their lives and to oversee the direction of the church, ensuring that the focus remains on what Jesus has called them to do. [46:46]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Colossians 1:15-20
2. Colossians 4:7-18
3. 2 Timothy 4:9-11
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Colossians 1:15-20, what roles and attributes are ascribed to Jesus?
2. In Colossians 4:7-18, who are some of the individuals mentioned, and what roles do they play in Paul's ministry?
3. What does Paul say about Demas in 2 Timothy 4:10, and how does this contrast with his earlier mention in Colossians 4:14?
4. How does the sermon describe the importance of unity and teamwork within the church? ([41:46])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus is described as the "image of the invisible God" and the one through whom all things were created? How does this shape our understanding of His centrality in our lives?
2. How do the various roles of individuals mentioned in Colossians 4:7-18 illustrate the concept of teamwork and unity in the church? ([41:46])
3. What lessons can we learn from the reconciliation between Paul and Mark, and how does this apply to resolving conflicts within the church? ([01:06:31])
4. How does the example of Demas serve as a warning to believers about the dangers of worldly distractions? ([01:11:21])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life. Are there any distractions or temptations that are taking your focus away from Jesus? How can you intentionally resist these distractions this week? ([01:15:35])
2. Think about your role within the church. How can you actively contribute to the mission of making disciples in your specific context? Identify one practical step you can take this week. ([49:55])
3. Is there someone in your church family with whom you have unresolved tension? What steps can you take to initiate a humble conversation and seek reconciliation? ([01:08:02])
4. How can you support and encourage your church leaders in their mission to keep the church focused on making disciples? Consider one specific action you can take to show your support. ([46:46])
5. Identify one person in your life who may be curious about faith or in need of spiritual encouragement. How can you engage them in a meaningful conversation or act of kindness this week? ([49:55])
6. Reflect on the concept of the church as an aircraft carrier, refueling believers for the mission. How can you ensure that your time in church equips you for your mission in the world? ([58:12])
7. How can you emulate the example of Epaphras, who struggled in prayer for the maturity of others? Commit to praying for one person in your church this week, asking God to help them grow in their faith. ([01:01:11])
Devotional
Day 1: Christ Above All Distractions
In a world brimming with distractions, believers are called to prioritize their relationship with Jesus above all else. This means actively resisting the lure of materialism, status, and other idols that can easily divert attention from the path of faith. It is a conscious choice to focus on spiritual growth and to align one's actions with the teachings of Christ, ensuring that He remains the central figure in every aspect of life. [01:15:35]
Hebrews 12:1-2 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
Reflection: What worldly distractions are you currently allowing to overshadow your focus on Jesus, and what practical steps can you take to minimize their influence?
Day 2: United in Mission Beyond the Walls
Believers are encouraged to look beyond the comfort of their church community and to actively participate in the mission field that exists in their everyday lives. This mission is not a solitary endeavor but one that thrives on the collective efforts of the church body, working in unity to spread the message of Christ's love and salvation. Each person has a unique role to play, and together, they can make a significant impact in the world. [58:44]
1 Corinthians 12:12-14 - "Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink."
Reflection: How can you actively contribute to the church's mission in your current environment, and who can you partner with to amplify your efforts?
Day 3: Every Believer a Missionary
The call to spread the gospel is not limited to a select few but is the responsibility of every believer. The church serves as a spiritual refueling station, equipping members to go out and share the good news of Jesus Christ. Each individual's participation is crucial, and the collective action of the church can lead to a powerful expansion of God's kingdom on earth. [49:55]
Acts 1:8 - "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Reflection: What is one way you can be a witness for Christ in your daily life, and how can you prepare yourself for this role?
Day 4: Embracing Forgiveness and Unity
Forgiveness and unity are essential elements in the life of the church. Conflicts are inevitable, but they must be approached with humility and a willingness to engage in honest conversations. By extending mercy and grace to one another, believers reflect the forgiveness they have received in Christ, fostering a community that is strong, loving, and united in purpose. [01:08:02]
Ephesians 4:2-3 - "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
Reflection: Is there a relationship within your church community that needs reconciliation, and what steps can you take to initiate healing and forgiveness?
Day 5: Leadership Focused on Discipleship
Church leaders are tasked with guiding the congregation towards the ultimate goal of making disciples. While they are not without flaws, their commitment to magnifying Jesus and setting an example for others is paramount. They are responsible for steering the church in a direction that aligns with Christ's teachings and for creating an environment where every member can grow in their faith and contribute to the mission. [46:46]
1 Peter 5:2-3 - "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."
Reflection: How can you support your church leaders in their mission to make disciples, and what role can you play in this process?
Quotes
"Father, we don't often enough take time to be quiet before you... would you forgive us when we don't keep our priorities on you, make us a people that love Jesus more than anything." [01:17:35] (Download)
"Thank you for your mercy and Grace to us even when we struggle, even when we get off track, that thank you for what you accomplished for us so that we can have confidence to enter into the holy Place into your presence and give you the praise you deserve." [01:19:00] (Download)
"Just keep it simple. You start with two things: one, pray with them and for them; two, share the truths that you've been learning from God's word. If everyone in our church would just start with the people in their sphere of influence..." [57:27] (Download)
"Our church is not a cruise ship where we're just here to make you comfortable. We want to be like an aircraft carrier, where the church gathering every week is to refuel and then go out to serve and fulfill the mission." [58:12] (Download)
"Our Unity is in Christ and we get to work together for his kingdom. It's a powerful reminder that we are all part of the same team, striving together to serve and grow in our faith." [01:00:39] (Download)
"He's always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you might stand mature, fully assured in the will of God. It's a testament to the enduring commitment we have to each other's spiritual growth and well-being." [01:01:11] (Download)
"God has given us something greater; there is a greater purpose for your life. There is a reason that you are here, and you and I get to be a part of something so much bigger than ourselves." [51:03] (Download)
"If you have unresolved tension with another brother or sister in our church family, that can't keep going on. It means you have a conversation coming; it might mean you have to humble yourself, confess your sin, ask for forgiveness, and extend the same mercy and grace that you've been given in Christ." [01:09:39] (Download)
"Keep Christ at your center. Now it all comes full circle; Jesus must be at the center of our lives. And I love that here in Colossians chapter 4, we get all of these examples of men and women who kept Christ at their center." [01:10:32] (Download)
"The local church needs leaders who help keep the church's Focus outward on the mission. Don't lose sight of what we're doing here, don't forget why we're fighting." [45:36] (Download)
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