Hope and Perseverance: Finding Strength in Christ
Summary
In the sermon titled "Limitless Sunday Service," the speaker, Pastor Ron, along with other speakers, delves into the profound concept of hope in Jesus Christ and the Christian journey of faith, suffering, and perseverance. The sermon begins with an emphasis on the unwavering and reliable hope found in Jesus, setting the stage for an altar call where individuals can respond to God's word and allow the Holy Spirit to work within them.
Pastor Ron addresses the challenging topic of suffering for Christ, acknowledging that while it is not desirable, it serves a purpose and can profoundly impact others' perception of God. He also discusses the importance of perseverance, humorously relating it to the common struggle of maintaining a diet.
The speakers share personal stories and testimonies to illustrate their points. One story involves a young lady's financial struggle and her decision to tithe, which highlights the importance of placing hope in God rather than worldly circumstances. Another personal account describes a difficult season in the speaker's marriage, emphasizing the value of enduring through hardships.
The presence of God in the church community is highlighted as a significant factor that keeps individuals connected to the church. The speaker describes this presence as tangible and invites others to experience the love of Jesus through the church community.
Pastor Ryan speaks about the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and reflects on the unchanging character of God, which provides believers with hope. The concept of hope is further explored as something that is developed and built, not merely possessed. The speaker encourages the congregation to come to church with expectation, as those who do so are not left disappointed.
The impact of Limitless Church on the community, especially the youth, is emphasized, with stories of life-changing experiences resulting from simple invitations to church. The speaker also stresses the importance of having a relationship with Jesus to find hope for the future, citing biblical promises of renewed strength and overflowing hope for those who trust in God.
The sermon series "unboxing" is mentioned, which aims to unpack different aspects of the Christian faith. The speaker also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit as a comforter in hopeless situations and the importance of understanding true hope as a confident expectation based on a relationship with God.
The value of suffering and perseverance in building character is highlighted, with the speaker asserting that character becomes unshakeable when it is developed through enduring hardships. Personal testimonies of God's faithfulness are shared, encouraging others to share their own experiences of God's work in their lives.
The sermon concludes with a focus on putting hope into action and the importance of understanding that hope comes from knowing where it originates—Jesus Christ. The speaker also touches on upcoming church events and the significance of participating in community activities.
Key Takeaways:
- Hope in Jesus Christ is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast anchor that remains constant despite life's storms. It is this divine hope that invites individuals to respond to God's word and experience transformation through the Holy Spirit's work. [01:19:41]
- Suffering for Christ, while inherently challenging, serves a greater purpose by demonstrating the depth of our faith and potentially influencing others' beliefs. It is through witnessing steadfastness in adversity that the reality of God's strength and comfort can be most powerfully conveyed to onlookers. [01:09:04]
- True hope is not based on external circumstances or material wealth but is rooted in the character and promises of God. By understanding and pursuing the character of God, believers can find a hope that transcends the temporal and anchors them in the eternal. [01:18:26]
- The Christian journey is marked not by the absence of suffering but by the presence of divine companionship and purpose within it. As believers navigate through trials, their character is refined, and their testimony becomes a beacon of hope to others who witness God's sustaining power in their lives. [01:07:30]
- The act of giving, whether in tithes, offerings, or service, is a tangible expression of hope and trust in God. It is through these acts of obedience and surrender that believers demonstrate their reliance on God's provision and their commitment to His kingdom. [01:24:30]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Limitless Sunday Service"
#### Bible Reading
1. Romans 5:3-4 - "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."
2. Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
3. Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Romans 5:3-4, what are the steps that lead to hope? How does each step build upon the previous one?
2. In the sermon, Pastor Ron mentioned a story about a young lady's financial struggle and her decision to tithe. What was the outcome of her decision? [01:23:09]
3. How does Jeremiah 29:11 describe God's plans for us? What are the key elements of this promise?
4. Pastor Ryan spoke about the importance of having an expectation when coming to church. What did he say happens when people come with an expectation? [52:10]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the process of suffering, perseverance, and character development in Romans 5:3-4 relate to the personal testimonies shared in the sermon? [01:13:34]
2. What does it mean to have hope that is "not based on external circumstances or material wealth but is rooted in the character and promises of God"? How does this differ from worldly hope? [01:18:26]
3. Pastor Ron mentioned that suffering for Christ can serve a greater purpose. How can our response to suffering impact others' perception of God? [01:09:04]
4. In Isaiah 40:31, what are the promises given to those who hope in the Lord? How can these promises provide comfort during difficult times?
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced suffering. How did you see God working in that situation, and how did it impact your faith and character? [01:04:18]
2. Pastor Ryan emphasized the importance of coming to church with an expectation. How can you cultivate a sense of expectation in your spiritual life, both in and out of church? [52:10]
3. The sermon highlighted the value of giving as an expression of hope and trust in God. How can you practice this in your own life, whether through tithing, offerings, or acts of service? [01:24:30]
4. Think about the people you surround yourself with. Are they positive influences that help build your character and hope in God? What changes might you need to make in your relationships? [01:17:14]
5. Pastor Ron shared a story about persevering through a difficult season in his marriage. How can you apply the principles of perseverance and hope in your own relationships? [01:13:34]
6. How can you actively share your personal testimonies of God's faithfulness with others to encourage them in their faith journey? [42:18]
7. Identify one area in your life where you need to put your hope into action. What specific steps can you take this week to demonstrate your trust in God's provision and promises? [01:25:07]
Devotional
Day 1: Hope Anchors the Soul
Hope in Jesus is the unshakeable anchor that steadies us amidst life's tumultuous waves, offering peace and stability when everything else seems uncertain. This divine hope is not just a feeling but a transformative power that draws us closer to God and reshapes our lives from the inside out. It is the bedrock upon which faith is built and the assurance that, no matter what storms may come, we are held secure in the hands of the Almighty. [01:19:41]
Hebrews 6:19 - "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain."
Reflection: How does envisioning hope as an anchor change your perspective on the challenges you are currently facing?
Day 2: Suffering with Purpose
Suffering for Christ is a profound testament to the depth of one's faith, serving as a beacon to others and revealing the strength and comfort God provides. It is in the furnace of affliction that faith is tested and proven genuine, and through such trials, believers can demonstrate to the world the transformative power of God's sustaining grace. This purposeful suffering is a journey through which one's character is refined and God's glory is made manifest. [01:09:04]
1 Peter 4:12-13 - "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed."
Reflection: Can you recall a time when your suffering led to a deeper understanding of God's purpose for your life?
Day 3: Rooted in Divine Character
True hope is cultivated in the fertile soil of God's character and promises, not in the shifting sands of worldly circumstances. This hope is a confident expectation that grows stronger as one delves deeper into the nature of God, discovering His unchanging faithfulness and love. It is a hope that looks beyond the temporal to the eternal, providing a steadfast assurance that God's plans are always for our ultimate good. [01:18:26]
Psalm 130:5 - "I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope."
Reflection: What attributes of God's character have you experienced that reinforce your hope in Him?
Day 4: Refined Through Trials
The Christian journey is characterized by the presence of God within our trials, offering purpose and companionship. As we navigate life's challenges, we are not abandoned but are instead accompanied by a divine presence that refines our character. This process of refinement turns our testimonies into powerful narratives of hope, showcasing God's faithfulness and the strength He provides to endure. [01:07:30]
James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Reflection: How can your current trials be seen as an opportunity for character development and a deeper reliance on God?
Day 5: Generosity as an Act of Hope
Giving is a profound expression of hope and trust in God, whether through tithes, offerings, or acts of service. It is a declaration of dependence on God's provision and a commitment to His kingdom's work. This generosity is a practical demonstration of faith, showing that our hope is not in material wealth but in the One who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. [01:24:30]
1 Timothy 6:17-19 - "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share."
Reflection: In what ways can you express your hope in God through acts of generosity this week?
Quotes
"A relationship with Jesus Christ will give you a hope that will guarantee you a future period. Nothing else matters; a relationship with Jesus gets you the hope that you're looking for." [56:00] (Download)
"Sometimes you get tired, sometimes you get a little weary, you get a little drained. You've given everything you've got and you feel like everyone wants more. But the Bible says that if you put your hope in God, he will renew your strength." [56:37] (Download)
"Too many marriages fail because of suffering and problems, and when they come, we run and quit instead of persevering and allowing character to grow so that our future generations have hope." [01:12:32] (Download)
"Suffering produces perseverance which then builds into a character that produces hope that cannot be shaken." [01:17:14] (Download)
"Perseverance is not just about enduring; it's about setting an example. When my sons face hardship, they won't quit either, because they saw their mother and father persevere through difficulty with a 'won't quit' mentality." [01:13:34] (Download)
"Following Jesus is the greatest thing you'll ever do, not because it's easy, but because it's worth it. It gives purpose to our lives, even amidst hardship, and that's what makes it the most profound gift we could ever receive." [01:14:10] (Download)
"We never find success or favor when we quit; difficulty hope comes when you have faced opposition and you keep going." [01:10:54] (Download)
"Hope says I may not see it now, but I've seen Him do it before. Hope says I don't see how, but I know who will make a way. Hope says I don't have to depend on what I produce, but I know I can depend on what He promised." [01:19:07] (Download)
"The presence of God is the thing you notice right away; you just feel this, you're walking into an anointing oil that's all over the church, from every single individual." [45:19] (Download)
"Church is one of the places where you will see Jesus come to life; He will use people and show His love through them. The presence of God is here in this place, no matter what." [45:57] (Download)
"The sense of community was a contributing factor to why I stayed here and have served here ever since. It's not just about being in a place, but about growing in faith together." [45:19] (Download)
"Hope is from the Lord, so the first thing that we understand about where hope comes from: it doesn't come from a better job, a better spouse, a nicer paycheck, better friends, or anything you can do for yourself." [01:00:32] (Download)
"Welcome to Limitless Church, we're here to take the limits off the way you see Jesus' faith in the church, and I'm not going to sit here and make you feel good, I'm going to sit here and preach truth so you can live a life that is significant, impactful, and meaningful." [01:01:07] (Download)
"Character doesn't seem like a big deal until you don't have it. Character is built when you go through some suffering and you persevere in it." [01:15:27] (Download)
"I know who I am now because I know who God has been for me before. I know what I stand on because he's been with me in the difficulty, he's given me the strength to get through it." [01:15:58] (Download)
"In these last days, it's very important for us to seek God, and we start that with the youth. That's the one thing you see at this church, you see youth all over the place." [47:02] (Download)
"You never know what a simple invitation will do in the life of another person. Mike, you've been an example of that in every single aspect of your life." [47:38] (Download)
"Hope isn't something you can create for yourself; if you try it, you're not going to have hope. Hope is what comes with promises and guarantees from the word of God that will never let you down." [49:53] (Download)
"When you have hope in our savior, it comes with promises and guarantees from the word of God that will never let you down, and your hope will never be cut off." [50:30] (Download)
"Our hope is found in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Everything changes; hopeless situations turn into hopeful opportunities for God to move in your life and begin to unveil his faithfulness to you in the midst of difficulty." [51:05] (Download)
"Suffering is necessary to build toward hope, meaning that you and I may need to go through some seemingly hopeless situations to get to a place where we know the hope is." [01:04:54] (Download)
"Quit running from hardship, quit running from suffering, and let God help you through." [01:05:26] (Download)
"When you walk in the house of God because hope is a feeling of expectation, not wishing. I expect this to happen because I know what the God of the Bible says His promises are, and they are for sure and they are yes and amen." [54:16] (Download)
"I expect him to answer and he will answer. That is my expectation. It is an expectation and a desire for a certain thing to happen, not an ambivalent thing, not a random thing, not a guess that you're going to throw out in the universe." [54:52] (Download)
"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. You walk in here this morning going, 'I don't have a clue what my future holds.'" [55:27] (Download)
"The one thing that really stood out to me was the love and it wasn't just No Ordinary Love, it's the love that Jesus gives, so it's literally heaven on Earth." [44:42] (Download)
"What if the suffering you're going through is meant for the people around you to see God move in your situation and encourage them and let them see what God can do in the middle of difficulty." [01:08:05] (Download)
"What if what you're going through is designed for God to be able to use it to reach other people through the testimony you're going to have when you." [01:08:38] (Download)
"There's purpose in suffering for the cause of Christ. Can you imagine how many people would change their view of God if they see you go through it and watch God move in your life through it?" [01:09:04] (Download)
"Perseverance is the persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. It's about continuing the journey even when the road gets tough." [01:09:42] (Download)
"Christmas and the exciting thing about unboxing Christmas is that it doesn't matter which part of Christmas you unbox something new comes out and you learn the beauty of the gift of Jesus and the love of God in a new way from a different angle every time." [48:11] (Download)
"Every time you open up another part of Christmas you learn the love of God in a new way and it is an Incredible Gift that we have in this Christmas season." [48:11] (Download)
"Silver and gold I don't have, but what I do have I'm going to give you: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk. And that moment, that man's legs got strength in him, and he stood to his feet." [53:07] (Download)
"He had an expectation, he showed up looking for something, he didn't know what it was, he just knew he needed something and he said, 'God, I'm going to sit outside of your house.'" [53:39] (Download)
"The Bible in Revelations talks about they overcame by the blood of the lamb and the word of the testimony, and so what we want to do is we want to have an opportunity to share those testimonies." [42:18] (Download)
"We want to be able to share your story not only with our church here but all of those in the city to hear about what God has done." [42:49] (Download)
"Hope isn't just a thing you have; hope is something that is developed and built." [51:36] (Download)
"When you show up to the house of God with expectation, you don't leave disappointed." [52:10] (Download)
"Hope is not hope that is not in God; it's a wish. And we don't wish upon a star; we have hope through the blood of a savior. Wishing produces disappointment; hoping in God produces faith." [58:52] (Download)
"The hope we have comes from one place and one place alone, and that is in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Hope comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, where you say, 'God, I'm done doing this thing by myself.'" [59:26] (Download)
"The Holy Spirit is a great comforter, and you know what you need in the middle of hopeless situations? You need some comfort." [57:10] (Download)
"I promise you, if you'll let me comfort you in difficulty, we'll get to the promise." [57:39] (Download)
"Let's unbox what hope is, because suffering produces perseverance, perseverance character, and character produces hope." [58:13] (Download)
"Hope is not just a wish; it is a hope that is found in Jesus Christ that will not waver, fade, change, give up, or let me down." [01:19:41] (Download)
"The altar call is your opportunity to respond to the word of God preached, to allow the Spirit of God to work in you, to come to a place and say, 'God, your word resonated in my heart, and I want to do business with you.'" [01:20:14] (Download)
"There are two sermons preached every Sunday: the one that Pastor Keenan and I deliver, and the one the Holy Spirit is conducting to you personally." [01:20:42] (Download)
"As we prepare to transition to our time and tithe and offering, we're talking about this idea of Hope and this idea of an expectancy and just seeing all that hearing and receiving all that God is saying." [01:21:17] (Download)
"I had this opportunity and it was this moment where I had to decide where my Hope was, you know, is it in my job or is it in God." [01:22:36] (Download)
"He's not going to deliver you from suffering; he's going to help you in the suffering. He's not going to deliver you from the valley; he'll help you get through the valley." [01:05:57] (Download)
"The God we serve can deliver us from this suffering, but if he doesn't, we want you to know we're still not going to bow down and worship that god." [01:06:25] (Download)
"They're in the suffering, they're in the season they're supposed to be at their worst, what does the king say, 'How many did I throw in there?'" [01:06:57] (Download)
"Good morning church, how we doing this morning? I am excited, wasn't that an awesome time in worship this morning? Hallelujah." [37:35] (Download)
"Next week is Christmas at Limitless and we have a special performance for our kids ministry that is going to be amazing." [38:10] (Download)
"Bring Grandma, bring Grandpa, bring great grandma, bring aunties, bring uncles, bring everybody but most importantly bring your child because they are necessary in order for this to happen." [38:46] (Download)
"Traditionally, we do not have a service on the week of Christmas, but we're making some adjustments and this year we will have a Christmas Eve service." [39:56] (Download)
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