Instruments of Righteousness: Embracing Relational Ministry
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into Luke chapter 10, focusing on the theme of "Instruments of Righteousness." We celebrated the baptism of Amanda Watson, a powerful reminder of our transformation in Christ. Reflecting on Romans 6, we acknowledged that we are no longer slaves to sin but are now instruments of righteousness. This transformation is not just personal but communal, as we are called to live out our faith in relational environments.
We revisited the ministry model of Jesus, emphasizing His approach of sending out the 12 disciples and later the 72. Jesus' method was relational, effective, and reproducible. He didn't rely on traditional rabbinical education but empowered ordinary people to carry out extraordinary missions. This model of ministry to multiplication is something we aim to replicate in our church. We are committed to making, maturing, and mobilizing disciple-makers in relational environments.
We also discussed the importance of small groups as transformational relational environments. Jesus used small groups to disciple His followers, helping them grow in faith and ministry. This method is crucial for us as well. We need to embrace both Jesus' message and His method to see His miracles in our community.
Our mission is to make, mature, and mobilize disciple-makers. We aim to grow our small groups from three to six by 2026, ensuring that every disciple matures to ministry. This involves building friendships, connecting people to the body of Christ, and helping them decide to follow Jesus.
We concluded with a powerful story of Daryl Davis, who transformed the lives of over 200 Ku Klux Klan members through friendship and dialogue. This story underscores the impact of authentic relationships and the power of love and service. As we move forward, we are called to say "yes" to Jesus' call to mature in our faith and ministry, embracing the cross and a life of service.
### Key Takeaways
1. Transformation in Christ: Our baptism into Christ signifies a profound transformation. We are no longer slaves to sin but are now instruments of righteousness. This new identity calls us to live out our faith actively and relationally, impacting those around us. [29:55]
2. Relational Ministry: Jesus' ministry model was deeply relational. He sent out His disciples in pairs to minister in living rooms, emphasizing personal connections over large gatherings. This approach led to significant growth and transformation, a model we should emulate. [33:34]
3. Reproducible Models: Jesus' method of ministry was reproducible and scalable. He empowered ordinary people to carry out His mission, showing that effective ministry doesn't require advanced education but a willing heart. We are called to create similar reproducible models in our church. [42:35]
4. Authentic Relationships: Building authentic relationships is crucial in ministry. People value authenticity and can sense when our efforts are genuine. We must love and serve people sincerely, regardless of whether they choose to follow Christ. [52:53]
5. Commitment to Maturity: Jesus calls us to mature in our faith and ministry. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones, embracing the cross, and committing to a life of service. We must heed this call and continually seek to grow and mature in our walk with Christ. [01:00:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[29:55] - Instruments of Righteousness
[30:29] - Celebrating Amanda's Baptism
[31:04] - Mandy's Achievements
[31:33] - Recap of Remain in Him Series
[32:05] - Kenna Elementary Thank You
[32:34] - Mandy's Return to Ministry
[33:03] - Overview of Luke 9
[33:34] - Ministry in Living Rooms
[34:22] - Small Group Dynamics
[35:13] - Understanding Jesus' Identity
[36:03] - Jesus as the Suffering Servant
[37:02] - Discipling Through Small Groups
[37:59] - Counting the Cost of Discipleship
[39:06] - Sending Out the 72
[42:35] - Ministry to Multiplication
[45:37] - Embracing Jesus' Method
[49:30] - Reproducible Models in Ministry
[52:53] - Building Authentic Relationships
[01:00:41] - Commitment to Maturity
[01:02:50] - Encouraging Eric and Casey
[01:03:29] - Final Encouragement and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 10:1-12 - Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-Two
2. Romans 6:1-14 - Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
#### Observation Questions
1. In Luke 10:1-12, what instructions does Jesus give to the seventy-two disciples before sending them out?
2. According to Romans 6:1-14, what does it mean to be "dead to sin" and "alive in Christ"?
3. How did Jesus' method of sending out disciples in pairs (Luke 10:1) contrast with traditional rabbinical education? [33:34]
4. What was the significance of Amanda Watson's baptism as mentioned in the sermon? [29:55]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus emphasized relational ministry by sending out the seventy-two in pairs? How might this approach be effective in today's context? [33:34]
2. Romans 6:13 mentions being "instruments of righteousness." What practical steps can believers take to live out this identity in their daily lives?
3. The sermon highlighted the importance of small groups as transformational environments. How do small groups facilitate spiritual growth and maturity? [37:02]
4. Reflecting on the story of Daryl Davis, how can building authentic relationships impact ministry and community transformation? [55:13]
#### Application Questions
1. Transformation in Christ: How has your understanding of being "dead to sin" and "alive in Christ" influenced your daily actions and decisions? What changes can you make to better reflect this transformation? [29:55]
2. Relational Ministry: Think about your current relationships. How can you intentionally build deeper, more meaningful connections that reflect Jesus' relational ministry model? [33:34]
3. Reproducible Models: What are some simple, reproducible methods you can implement in your ministry or personal life to help others grow in their faith? [42:35]
4. Authentic Relationships: Identify one person in your life with whom you can build a more authentic relationship. What specific actions will you take to show genuine love and care for them? [52:53]
5. Commitment to Maturity: What steps can you take to mature in your faith and ministry? Consider areas where you need to step out of your comfort zone and embrace a life of service. [01:00:41]
6. Small Group Involvement: If you are not already part of a small group, what is holding you back from joining one? How can you overcome these barriers to experience the benefits of a transformational relational environment? [37:02]
7. Next Yes to Jesus: Reflect on the sermon’s call to say "yes" to Jesus' call to mature in faith and ministry. What is your next "yes" to Jesus, and how will you act on it this week? [01:00:16]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Our baptism into Christ signifies a profound transformation. We are no longer slaves to sin but are now instruments of righteousness. This new identity calls us to live out our faith actively and relationally, impacting those around us. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a declaration of our new life in Christ. As we reflect on Romans 6, we understand that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with. This transformation is both personal and communal, urging us to live out our faith in relational environments, just as Jesus did.
In this new identity, we are called to be instruments of righteousness, actively participating in God's work on earth. This means that our actions, words, and relationships should reflect the righteousness of Christ. It is a daily commitment to live out our faith, not in isolation but within a community that supports and encourages us. As we grow in our faith, we become more effective in our witness, drawing others to the transformative power of Christ.
Romans 6:6-7 (ESV): "We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin."
Reflection: Think about an area in your life where you still feel enslaved to sin. How can you actively embrace your new identity in Christ and become an instrument of righteousness in that area today? [29:55]
Day 2: The Power of Relational Ministry
Jesus' ministry model was deeply relational. He sent out His disciples in pairs to minister in living rooms, emphasizing personal connections over large gatherings. This approach led to significant growth and transformation, a model we should emulate. Jesus understood that true transformation happens in the context of relationships. By sending His disciples in pairs, He ensured that they had support and accountability, which are crucial for effective ministry.
Relational ministry is about building genuine connections with people. It involves listening, understanding, and walking alongside others in their faith journey. This method is not only effective but also reproducible. As we invest in relationships, we create a ripple effect, empowering others to do the same. This approach aligns with our mission to make, mature, and mobilize disciple-makers in relational environments.
Luke 10:1-2 (ESV): "After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'"
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who needs to experience the love of Christ. How can you build a genuine relationship with them and minister to them in a personal and meaningful way? [33:34]
Day 3: Creating Reproducible Ministry Models
Jesus' method of ministry was reproducible and scalable. He empowered ordinary people to carry out His mission, showing that effective ministry doesn't require advanced education but a willing heart. We are called to create similar reproducible models in our church. This means equipping and empowering every believer to be a disciple-maker, regardless of their background or education.
Reproducible ministry models focus on simplicity and effectiveness. They are designed to be easily replicated, allowing for exponential growth. By investing in ordinary people and equipping them with the necessary tools and training, we can create a movement of disciple-makers who are capable of reaching and transforming their communities. This approach ensures that the mission of the church continues to expand and impact more lives.
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."
Reflection: Identify one person in your church or community whom you can mentor and equip to become a disciple-maker. What steps can you take to invest in their growth and development? [42:35]
Day 4: Building Authentic Relationships
Building authentic relationships is crucial in ministry. People value authenticity and can sense when our efforts are genuine. We must love and serve people sincerely, regardless of whether they choose to follow Christ. Authentic relationships are built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. They require us to be vulnerable and open, sharing our own struggles and victories in faith.
Authenticity in relationships creates a safe space for others to explore their faith and ask questions. It allows for deeper connections and meaningful conversations. As we build authentic relationships, we demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways, making a lasting impact on those around us. This approach aligns with the story of Daryl Davis, who transformed the lives of over 200 Ku Klux Klan members through friendship and dialogue.
1 Thessalonians 2:8 (ESV): "So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us."
Reflection: Reflect on your current relationships. Are there any where you need to be more authentic and vulnerable? How can you show genuine love and service to those individuals today? [52:53]
Day 5: Commitment to Spiritual Maturity
Jesus calls us to mature in our faith and ministry. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones, embracing the cross, and committing to a life of service. Spiritual maturity is a continuous journey of growth and transformation. It requires us to be intentional about our spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.
Maturing in our faith also means being willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities. It involves a willingness to serve others and to be used by God in whatever capacity He calls us to. As we grow in our faith, we become more effective in our ministry and more capable of making a lasting impact on the world around us. This commitment to maturity is essential for fulfilling our mission to make, mature, and mobilize disciple-makers.
Hebrews 6:1 (ESV): "Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God."
Reflection: What is one area of your spiritual life where you need to grow and mature? What specific steps can you take this week to pursue spiritual maturity in that area? [01:00:41]
Quotes
1. "We're no longer slaves to that. But the part that jumped out to me is that we're instruments of righteousness. I was like, alright. I didn't have a title for my sermon. Guess what the title for my sermon is? Instruments of righteousness." [29:55] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus chose a small group. He chose some people He could build deep relationships with and build a transformational relational environment. A place where they could know each other and help each other to grow into Christ. And so he, after a little while, sends those 12 out to actually do ministry. And what we talked about was they matured to ministry. They matured to the mission." [33:03] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We cannot hope to spread Jesus' message minus Jesus' method and expect to see Jesus' miracles. You with me? We have to both embrace the message but we also have to embrace the method. Okay? And that's what we're doing. That's what everything we're doing with small groups, everything that we're trying to apply in the church." [45:05] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Our mission statement as a church... It's to make, mature, and mobilize disciple makers in relational environments. That's what we want to do as a church. We look at Jesus' ministry. That's what they did. Guess what we want to do? That same thing. We want to be all about making, maturing, and mobilizing disciple makers in relational environments." [45:59] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We want to create reproducible models in our church to where anybody can feel equipped to do ministry. You with me? One of ours is the ABCD Disciple making method. That's even easier to remember, right? What is it, D? No, no. I need to hear it with some fervor. What is it? Bam. There it is." [49:50] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Ask the Lord of the harvest. That's what he says here. The harvest is plentiful. What's the problem? Workers. Laborers. Right? He needs us. God needs you. You're a big deal. Okay? Ask the Lord of the harvest. Send workers into the harvest field." [50:26] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We have got to authentically care about people and love people and learn to build great friendships without, hey, they may never become Christians. I'm going to be a great friend regardless. You know what I mean? We have to be authentic in our love for people but building great friendships." [53:19] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "If we're going to fulfill Jesus' mission, we have to follow His method. Okay? And we're trying to provide reproducible models so that anybody can feel equipped to lead a small group and go out and do ministry. Amen?" [54:41] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Dare I say that we're not maturing to ministry because life is choking us out. This is Jesus' call. This is not me. This is not our KVC plan. This is Jesus. He's saying to each one of us, what's holding you back? Maybe it's time to decide. You know what? It's time for me to mature." [01:01:18] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We have a real opportunity here. Look around. There's not a bunch of us, is there? We need everybody. They started with 12 and they were at 5,000. I don't care what number we get to. But guys, we have the opportunity to fire Jesus up. And we say, you know what? I love Jesus. I want to be transformed by Him. I am going to say yes. I'm going to mature to ministry and see God do great things." [01:03:29] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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