God's Call: Embracing New Adventures and Generosity
Summary
### Summary
Greetings from Seattle, Washington! Today, we delved into Acts chapter 7, focusing on the story of Moses and the broader theme of how God works through history to fulfill His purposes. We began by celebrating the impact of your generosity, which has led to hundreds of children accepting Jesus at our camps. This underscores the importance of investing in the next generation.
We then explored the life of Moses, emphasizing key moments: his birth during a time of oppression, his upbringing in Pharaoh's palace, his flight to Midian after killing an Egyptian, and his encounter with God at the burning bush. These events illustrate how God prepares and calls us, often in unexpected ways and times, to fulfill His purposes.
Stephen, a deacon filled with the Spirit, used Moses' story to address the Sanhedrin, highlighting the difference between religion and the gospel. Religion focuses on human efforts to reach God, while the gospel is about God's actions to reach us. Stephen's speech serves as a reminder that God is always at work, even when we don't see it, and that He often uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
We also discussed the importance of being present in others' pain, just as God is present with us. This was illustrated through personal stories, including a visit to a brothel in India and the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of those rescued from sex trafficking. The message is clear: God sees, hears, and comes down to rescue us, and He calls us to be His hands and feet in the world.
Finally, we were reminded that it's never too late for a new adventure with God. Whether you're young or old, God has a plan for you. He calls us to step out in faith, to be present in the lives of others, and to share the good news of the gospel. As we close, let's respond to God's call, whether it's for a new adventure or to accept Christ for the first time.
### Key Takeaways
1. Generosity's Ripple Effect: Your generosity has far-reaching impacts beyond what you can see. The investment in children's camps has led to hundreds of kids accepting Jesus, showing that our actions can have eternal consequences. This reminds us to be generous with our time, resources, and love, trusting that God will multiply our efforts. [02:19]
2. God's Timing and Preparation: Moses' life shows that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed. From being hidden as a baby to encountering God at the burning bush at 80, Moses' story teaches us that God prepares us through our life experiences for His purposes. We must trust His timing and be ready to respond when He calls. [05:38]
3. Presence in Pain: Just as God is present in our pain, we are called to be present in the pain of others. This means showing up, listening, and offering support without needing to fix everything. Our presence can be a powerful testament to God's love and compassion. [18:30]
4. The Gospel's Transformative Power: The gospel has the power to transform lives, even in the darkest places. The story of the brothel in India illustrates that the light of the gospel shines brightest in the darkest situations. We are called to bring this light to the world, trusting that God's love can change any heart. [16:34]
5. New Adventures with God: It's never too late to embark on a new adventure with God. Whether you're young or old, God has a plan for you. He calls us to step out in faith, to be present in the lives of others, and to share the good news of the gospel. Let's be open to His leading and ready to respond to His call. [32:49]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:19] - Impact of Generosity
[04:05] - Introduction to Acts 7
[05:38] - Life of Moses
[08:00] - Stephen's Speech
[09:20] - History Lesson
[10:03] - God's Promise to Abraham
[11:24] - Importance of Learning History
[12:22] - Hard Hearts and Stiff Necks
[13:01] - Moses' Birth and Upbringing
[14:48] - Encounter in India
[16:34] - Transformative Power of the Gospel
[18:30] - Presence in Pain
[19:15] - Personal Story of Loss
[20:50] - Moses' Flight and Calling
[21:53] - Holy Ground
[22:35] - Bible Study with Daughter
[24:03] - God's Kingdom and Our Role
[25:03] - Importance of Working with Children
[26:00] - Story of the Foster Child
[28:25] - Movie Night and Lessons from "Up"
[32:06] - New Adventures with God
[32:49] - Call to Respond
[33:57] - Invitation to Accept Christ
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 7:20-34 - The story of Moses as recounted by Stephen.
2. John 8:36 - "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
#### Observation Questions
1. What were the key moments in Moses' life that Stephen highlighted in his speech to the Sanhedrin? [04:55]
2. How did Stephen use the story of Moses to differentiate between religion and the gospel? [04:05]
3. What was the significance of the burning bush encounter in Moses' life? [05:38]
4. How did the story of the brothel in India illustrate the transformative power of the gospel? [16:34]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Moses' life teach us about God's timing and preparation? How does this apply to our own lives? [05:38]
2. How can being present in others' pain reflect God's love and compassion? What are some practical ways to do this? [18:30]
3. In what ways does the gospel shine brightest in the darkest situations, as illustrated by the story of the brothel in India? [16:34]
4. How does the concept of "new adventures with God" challenge our understanding of God's plans for us, regardless of our age? [32:49]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's perfect timing in your life. How did it shape your faith and trust in Him? [05:38]
2. Think of someone in your life who is currently in pain. How can you be present for them this week, showing God's love and compassion? [18:30]
3. The story of the brothel in India shows the power of the gospel in transforming lives. Is there a dark situation in your community where you can bring the light of the gospel? How can you get involved? [16:34]
4. How can you be more generous with your time, resources, and love, trusting that God will multiply your efforts? Reflect on the impact of generosity as discussed in the sermon. [02:19]
5. Have you ever felt like Moses, running from something God has called you to do? What steps can you take to respond to God's call in your life now? [20:50]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation. How can you actively participate in mentoring or supporting children and youth in your church or community? [25:03]
7. Consider the idea of embarking on a new adventure with God. What is one new step of faith you feel called to take, and how can you prepare for it? [32:49]
Devotional
Day 1: The Ripple Effect of Generosity
Generosity has far-reaching impacts beyond what we can see. The investment in children's camps has led to hundreds of kids accepting Jesus, showing that our actions can have eternal consequences. This reminds us to be generous with our time, resources, and love, trusting that God will multiply our efforts. When we give, we often don't see the immediate results, but God uses our generosity to create ripples that touch lives in ways we may never know. Our acts of kindness and giving can lead to transformative changes in others' lives, just as the generosity of the congregation led to many children finding faith.
Generosity is not just about financial giving; it encompasses our time, talents, and love. When we invest in others, especially the younger generation, we plant seeds that can grow into a strong faith foundation. This principle is evident in the story shared about the children's camps. Hundreds of children accepted Jesus because of the congregation's generosity. This serves as a powerful reminder that our contributions, no matter how small they seem, can have a significant and lasting impact. [02:19]
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: Think of a way you can be generous today, whether with your time, resources, or love. How can you trust God to multiply your efforts for His kingdom?
Day 2: Trusting God's Timing and Preparation
Moses' life shows that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed. From being hidden as a baby to encountering God at the burning bush at 80, Moses' story teaches us that God prepares us through our life experiences for His purposes. We must trust His timing and be ready to respond when He calls. Moses' journey was filled with unexpected turns, yet each step was part of God's divine plan. His upbringing in Pharaoh's palace, his flight to Midian, and his encounter with God at the burning bush were all crucial in preparing him for his ultimate calling.
God's preparation often involves periods of waiting and growth. Moses spent 40 years in the desert before God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This time was not wasted; it was a period of preparation and refinement. Similarly, we may experience seasons of waiting or feel that our progress is slow, but God is at work, shaping us for His purposes. Trusting in His timing requires faith and patience, knowing that He sees the bigger picture and is orchestrating everything for our good and His glory. [05:38]
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (ESV): "He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God's timing was delayed. How did that experience prepare you for something greater? How can you trust His timing in your current situation?
Day 3: Being Present in Others' Pain
Just as God is present in our pain, we are called to be present in the pain of others. This means showing up, listening, and offering support without needing to fix everything. Our presence can be a powerful testament to God's love and compassion. Being present in someone's pain involves empathy and a willingness to walk alongside them in their struggles. It's about offering a listening ear and a comforting presence, rather than trying to provide solutions or answers.
The story shared about visiting a brothel in India and witnessing the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of those rescued from sex trafficking highlights the importance of being present in others' pain. By showing up and offering support, we can be a tangible expression of God's love and compassion. Our presence can bring hope and healing to those who are hurting, reminding them that they are not alone and that God sees and cares for them. [18:30]
Romans 12:15 (ESV): "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who is going through a difficult time. How can you be present for them today, offering support and compassion without trying to fix their situation?
Day 4: The Transformative Power of the Gospel
The gospel has the power to transform lives, even in the darkest places. The story of the brothel in India illustrates that the light of the gospel shines brightest in the darkest situations. We are called to bring this light to the world, trusting that God's love can change any heart. The gospel's transformative power is evident in the lives of those who have been rescued from sex trafficking and have experienced the life-changing love of Jesus. Their stories serve as a testament to the hope and redemption that the gospel brings.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be bearers of this transformative message, bringing the light of the gospel into the darkest corners of the world. Whether it's through sharing our faith, serving others, or simply living out the love of Christ in our daily lives, we have the opportunity to be instruments of God's transformative power. The gospel can change hearts, heal wounds, and bring hope to the hopeless. [16:34]
Isaiah 61:1 (ESV): "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you witnessed the transformative power of the gospel in someone's life. How can you be a bearer of this transformative message in your community today?
Day 5: Embracing New Adventures with God
It's never too late to embark on a new adventure with God. Whether you're young or old, God has a plan for you. He calls us to step out in faith, to be present in the lives of others, and to share the good news of the gospel. God's call to new adventures is not limited by age or past experiences. He continually invites us to step out in faith and embrace the opportunities He places before us.
The reminder that it's never too late for a new adventure with God encourages us to remain open to His leading, regardless of our stage in life. Whether it's a new ministry, a new relationship, or a new way of serving, God has a unique plan for each of us. By stepping out in faith and responding to His call, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from walking in His purposes. [32:49]
Isaiah 43:19 (ESV): "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Reflection: What new adventure is God calling you to embark on? How can you step out in faith and embrace this opportunity, trusting that He has a plan and purpose for you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We love kids. We love the future. We got to invest in them and they need to know there's a whole church behind them. I taught at the middle school camp a breakout on how your next step is your biggest step. By the way, a lot of people are hearing the word of God today but what are you doing with it? Biggest step is when you walk out of here." [02:19] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The blessing is the gospel. That God has come to pay for our sins. Christ crucified on the cross for us once and for all. Buried and risen on the third day. God's spirit alive, healing our hearts, filling us with the Holy Spirit. And we come alive spiritually. And we become part of God's family. To what? Bless this world with the message of the gospel." [10:03] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The gospel wins wherever it goes. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. God's got a plan. He loves to rescue. At that time, Moses was born, grows up in the palace. But then one day, when he's 40 years old, he goes and he sees the pain of the Israelites, his own people." [16:34] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We are called to show up in people's pain and to share the good news and the message of the gospel. The older I get, the easier it gets for me to say that was something from my past, but it's not something that's in my future." [28:25] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The stories of God's move in our nation, in your state, in your city, and through this church are incredible. But it's time for another adventure, you guys. And I don't know how old you are, but if you're still breathing, Carl, God's speaking to you today. And there's some young person. They might even annoy you a little bit. But you're going to go on an adventure together. The world's going to be different." [32:49] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Religion, what we do to make ourselves right before God, the gospel is what God does to make us right before him. Religion focused on what we do. The gospel focused on what Christ did and how we receive that." [04:05] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God's at work. But our hearts when they become hard and our necks become stiff. We actually become religious and we actually are not filled with God's Spirit. And he's showing them this by talking about the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph." [08:35] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Stephen is like, this is, God has always been at work to bless this world. To rescue this world. To rescue us. To transform our hearts. And we get hard-hearted and stiff. These are the people. They could quote you the law of Moses. But their hearts are far from God. They have valued the exterior over the inside transformation. They elevated the rules over compassion. They were missing the heart of God." [12:22] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Taking off your sandals, one, it's holy because God's presence is there. But two, in Eastern culture, if you show up in someone's house, the first thing you do is what? This is God's home. God's home is anywhere that you recognize his presence, his rule, and his reign is coming from heaven onto earth. Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand. God is at work to bring his kingdom here." [21:53] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We are Christ's ambassadors. We are the body of Christ. We are the hands and feet of Jesus. And God shows up to Moses, and he says, take off your sandal. You're on holy ground. And he says, I have seen, I've heard, and I've come down, and I'm sending you back. I've seen, I've heard, I've come down, and I'm sending you back." [24:03] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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