God's Redemption Journey: From Covenants to Community
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound journey from the Old Testament to the New Testament, focusing on the covenants God made with key figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. Each covenant represented a step in God's long redemption plan, which began in Eden and culminated in the New Testament with Jesus Christ. Adam's covenant was about living in perfect harmony with God, which was broken, leading to a world in need of redemption. Noah's covenant brought peace and a fresh start, while Abraham's covenant promised a vast lineage and a holy land. Moses' covenant introduced the law and the power of God, and David's covenant promised an everlasting kingdom, which found its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.
We discussed how the kingdom of God has evolved from a physical nation to a spiritual reality that transcends geographical boundaries. Jesus' teachings, particularly the parable of the wheat and the weeds, illustrate this shift. The kingdom of God is now wherever God's people are, and it includes everyone, not just the Israelites. This new covenant through Jesus brings a new creation, where we are all part of God's kingdom, living in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises.
The sermon also emphasized the importance of community and connection within our church. We are part of a connectional denomination, which means we support and are supported by other United Methodist churches. This connection allows us to grow and receive resources that enrich our spiritual lives. We were reminded of the importance of supporting church ministries through offerings and prayer requests, and we were encouraged to participate in upcoming events like the Pork Butt fundraiser and the new sermon series.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Long Redemption Plan: God's plan for redemption started in Eden and has been unfolding through various covenants with key figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. Each covenant built upon the previous one, leading to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. This plan shows God's unwavering commitment to restoring humanity to a perfect relationship with Him. [30:43]
2. The Kingdom of God: The kingdom of God has shifted from a physical nation to a spiritual reality that includes all believers. Jesus' parable of the wheat and the weeds illustrates that the kingdom is now wherever God's people are, and it includes everyone, not just the Israelites. This shift challenges us to see God's kingdom as a global, inclusive community. [43:52]
3. Living in the New Covenant: Through Jesus, we are part of a new creation and a new covenant that fulfills all previous covenants. We are children of Abraham, David, Moses, and Noah, living in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises. This new covenant calls us to live as ambassadors of God's kingdom, spreading His love and grace to all. [47:44]
4. Community and Connection: Being part of a connectional denomination means we support and are supported by other United Methodist churches. This connection enriches our spiritual lives and allows us to grow together. Supporting church ministries through offerings and prayer requests is crucial for maintaining this connection and fostering a strong, united community. [24:52]
5. The Importance of Participation: Engaging in church activities, such as the Pork Butt fundraiser and the new sermon series, helps us stay connected and grow in our faith. These events provide opportunities for fellowship, learning, and spiritual growth. Active participation in church life strengthens our community and deepens our relationship with God. [01:08:13]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [22:47] - Pork Butt Fundraiser Announcement
3. [23:29] - Importance of Buying Tickets
4. [24:08] - Connectional Denomination
5. [24:52] - Supporting Church Ministries
6. [25:40] - Prayer Requests
7. [26:56] - Transition to New Testament
8. [30:01] - Review of Old Testament Covenants
9. [30:43] - Adam's Covenant
10. [31:32] - Noah's Covenant
11. [32:29] - Abraham's Covenant
12. [33:25] - Moses' Covenant
13. [34:22] - David's Covenant
14. [35:04] - Division of the Kingdom
15. [37:01] - Exile and Return
16. [38:40] - Setting of the New Covenant
17. [40:30] - Jesus and the Kingdom of God
18. [42:08] - The Kingdom of God Explained
19. [43:52] - The New Covenant for All
20. [45:48] - God's Protection and the New Creation
21. [47:44] - Living in the New Covenant
22. [49:20] - The Promise of the New Covenant
23. [51:24] - Responding to God
24. [53:00] - Communion
25. [54:55] - Communion Instructions
26. [01:07:14] - Pork Butt Fundraiser Reminder
27. [01:08:13] - Upcoming Sermon Series
28. [01:09:15] - Wednesday Night Activities
29. [01:10:41] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 13:24-30 - The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the key elements of the parable of the wheat and the weeds that Jesus tells in Matthew 13:24-30?
2. According to the sermon, what was the original plan for Adam's covenant, and how was it broken? ([30:43])
3. How did the covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David each contribute to God's long redemption plan? ([31:32])
4. What does the sermon say about the shift in the kingdom of God from the Old Testament to the New Testament? ([43:52])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the parable of the wheat and the weeds illustrate the shift in the kingdom of God from a physical nation to a spiritual reality? ([42:08])
2. In what ways does the new covenant through Jesus fulfill the previous covenants with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David? ([47:44])
3. What does it mean to live in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises, as mentioned in the sermon? ([47:44])
4. How does being part of a connectional denomination enrich our spiritual lives and support our church community? ([24:52])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the parable of the wheat and the weeds. How can you apply the lesson of patience and trust in God's timing in your own life when dealing with difficult situations or people? ([42:08])
2. The sermon emphasized the importance of community and connection within our church. How can you actively support and engage with church ministries, such as through offerings or prayer requests? ([24:52])
3. Considering the shift from a physical kingdom to a spiritual reality, how can you contribute to building God's kingdom in your daily interactions and relationships? ([43:52])
4. The sermon mentioned the importance of participating in church activities like the Pork Butt fundraiser and the new sermon series. What steps can you take to be more involved in these events and strengthen your connection with the church community? ([01:08:13])
5. How can you live as an ambassador of God's kingdom, spreading His love and grace to all, especially in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises? ([47:44])
6. Reflect on the idea of being part of a new creation through Jesus. What changes can you make in your life to better align with this new identity and live out the new covenant? ([47:44])
7. The sermon highlighted the importance of supporting other United Methodist churches. How can you contribute to this connectional support system, and what benefits do you see in being part of a larger denominational family? ([24:52])
Devotional
### Day 1: God's Unwavering Redemption Plan
God's plan for redemption started in Eden and has been unfolding through various covenants with key figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. Each covenant built upon the previous one, leading to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. This plan shows God's unwavering commitment to restoring humanity to a perfect relationship with Him. Adam's covenant was about living in perfect harmony with God, which was broken, leading to a world in need of redemption. Noah's covenant brought peace and a fresh start, while Abraham's covenant promised a vast lineage and a holy land. Moses' covenant introduced the law and the power of God, and David's covenant promised an everlasting kingdom, which found its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.
Understanding this long redemption plan helps us see the continuity and faithfulness of God throughout history. It reminds us that God's promises are steadfast and that His ultimate goal is to bring us back into a perfect relationship with Him. Reflecting on these covenants can deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus and the fulfillment of God's promises through Him. [30:43]
Bible Passage:
"For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith." (Romans 4:13, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about a promise God has made in the Bible that you find particularly meaningful. How does understanding God's long redemption plan through various covenants strengthen your faith in that promise today?
### Day 2: The Inclusive Kingdom of God
The kingdom of God has shifted from a physical nation to a spiritual reality that includes all believers. Jesus' parable of the wheat and the weeds illustrates that the kingdom is now wherever God's people are, and it includes everyone, not just the Israelites. This shift challenges us to see God's kingdom as a global, inclusive community. The kingdom of God is now a spiritual reality that transcends geographical boundaries and includes all who believe in Jesus Christ. This new understanding of the kingdom calls us to embrace a broader perspective of God's work in the world and to recognize the unity we have with believers everywhere.
This inclusive nature of God's kingdom means that we are all part of a larger family, regardless of our background or nationality. It challenges us to break down barriers and to see each person as a valuable member of God's kingdom. Reflecting on this can help us to live out the values of the kingdom in our daily interactions and to be more inclusive and loving towards others. [43:52]
Bible Passage:
"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:28, ESV)
Reflection:
Consider someone in your life who is different from you in background or beliefs. How can you show them the love and inclusivity of God's kingdom today?
### Day 3: Living in the New Covenant
Through Jesus, we are part of a new creation and a new covenant that fulfills all previous covenants. We are children of Abraham, David, Moses, and Noah, living in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises. This new covenant calls us to live as ambassadors of God's kingdom, spreading His love and grace to all. The new covenant through Jesus brings a new creation, where we are all part of God's kingdom, living in the "already but not yet" reality of God's promises. This means that while we experience the blessings of God's kingdom now, we also look forward to its complete fulfillment in the future.
Living in this new covenant involves embracing our identity as God's children and living out the values of His kingdom. It calls us to be ambassadors of God's love and grace, sharing the good news of Jesus with others and living in a way that reflects His character. Reflecting on this can help us to align our lives with God's purposes and to be more intentional in our daily walk with Him. [47:44]
Bible Passage:
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)
Reflection:
What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
### Day 4: The Power of Community and Connection
Being part of a connectional denomination means we support and are supported by other United Methodist churches. This connection enriches our spiritual lives and allows us to grow together. Supporting church ministries through offerings and prayer requests is crucial for maintaining this connection and fostering a strong, united community. The importance of community and connection within the church cannot be overstated. Being part of a connectional denomination means that we are not isolated in our faith journey but are part of a larger network of believers who support and encourage one another.
This connection allows us to share resources, grow together, and be enriched by the diverse gifts and perspectives within the body of Christ. It also reminds us of our responsibility to support church ministries through offerings and prayer requests, as these are vital for maintaining the health and vitality of our community. Reflecting on this can help us to be more intentional in our involvement and support of the church. [24:52]
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:
Think of a way you can support your church community this week, whether through prayer, giving, or volunteering. How can you take a step to strengthen the bonds within your church family?
### Day 5: The Importance of Active Participation
Engaging in church activities, such as the Pork Butt fundraiser and the new sermon series, helps us stay connected and grow in our faith. These events provide opportunities for fellowship, learning, and spiritual growth. Active participation in church life strengthens our community and deepens our relationship with God. Participating in church activities is not just about being busy; it's about being connected and growing in our faith. Events like the Pork Butt fundraiser and the new sermon series provide opportunities for fellowship, learning, and spiritual growth. They help us to build relationships with other believers and to be encouraged in our walk with God.
Active participation in church life also strengthens our community and helps us to be more united in our mission. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and that our involvement makes a difference. Reflecting on this can help us to be more intentional in our participation and to see it as an essential part of our spiritual growth. [01:08:13]
Bible Passage:
"And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." (Acts 2:42, ESV)
Reflection:
What is one church activity or event you can commit to participating in this week? How can your involvement help you grow in your faith and strengthen your church community?
Quotes
1. "Friends, all summer we have been unpacking the Old Testament. And this week, we have left the Old Testament and got into the new. So who's excited? Some of you are like, finally. If you'd like to see the full images of these pictures that I've just shown, you can find them inside the sermon notes, along with the scriptures that I'm using. And you can take those notes by either going to the websites, you can find them by going to the e-mag, or you can open the church app." [26:56] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The kingdom of God is something that we say is here and not yet. We have seen it come forward as Christ included us into the new covenant, and yet it is still to come in the new creation in the final days. We get to live into it. We get to live into it. We get to live into it. We get to live into it. Now, and it will be even more glorious when all of creation has returned." [47:44] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We are the children of God now, and the new creation is still coming. The place, the kingdom of God on earth is everywhere, friends. We carry the kingdom everywhere we go. There is no longer a geographical kingdom, but we are the kingdom, and yet the kingdom of God is also the new Jerusalem that has not yet begun. What we call heaven, when every tribe will be, and we will sing, and we will dance, and we will worship, and we will exist in creation that is no longer going against us, and the humidity is not going to kill us, and the hurricanes are not coming to our shores." [49:20] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The reality is, is now God walks with us, not behind nations. And that's a hard pill for us to swallow. Let's just admit, take a second, it's a little hard to swallow. But he hasn't done that, friends, for 2,000 years. He hasn't done that for 2,000 years. This is not new. Jesus is saying here that we have to let both grow up and wait to the end, because now the covenant of God is for everyone. Now the protection of God is set free across the world." [45:48] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We often wish it would be easy if God could just take all the evil out in the world, don't we? Yeah. But which evil does he take out? Does he take out the evil that's harmful to me? Does he take out the evil that's harmful to you? Does he take out the evil that's harmful to the United States? Or maybe the evil that's harmful to Mexico? What if our evil hurts another country when he takes it all out from us?" [43:52] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The kingdom of God is no longer the land mass of God's nation. The kingdom of God is wherever the people of God are. And Jesus is trying to say, you may have God's people, and other people rising up together. We can't just pull things out. Meaning, it's not the world it used to be now that Jesus has set the covenant free to everything." [43:52] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We are a product of Abraham. We are a product of David. We are a product of Moses, and of Adam, and of Noah. The kingdom of God is something that we say is here and not yet. We have seen it come forward as Christ included us into the new covenant, and yet it is still to come in the new creation in the final days." [47:44] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "It's my prayer that each of us can experience a glimpse of the new creation in this life, because that is the intention. When we pray things like your kingdom come on heaven as it is on earth, what we're praying is that we are experiencing that glimpse of what is true. We are experiencing that to come now." [49:20] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The people of God are the children of Abraham. They are us, yet they will also be fully 100% reborn when we come back in our resurrected bodies. Who is ready to not have anything wrong with them? Anybody. I sure hope I can eat chocolate and not feel guilty about it. God, give me that one. My resurrected body can have sugar guilt-free. Okay. Banquet feast better have lots of sweets on it." [49:20] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We are the children of God now, and the new creation is still coming. The place, the kingdom of God on earth is everywhere, friends. We carry the kingdom everywhere we go. There is no longer a geographical kingdom, but we are the kingdom, and yet the kingdom of God is also the new Jerusalem that has not yet begun." [49:20] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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