Living a Life of Sacrifice and Unity in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the importance of living a life that honors Him. We began by acknowledging the significance of communion, emphasizing the need for self-examination and repentance before partaking in the Lord's Supper. This act of remembrance is not just a ritual but a proclamation of the Lord's death and a reminder of His ultimate sacrifice for our salvation.
We then transitioned into a discussion about the importance of being present and committed in our walk with God. Drawing from the story of Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17, we explored the necessity of support and accountability within the body of Christ. Moses' hands being held up by Aaron and Hur symbolizes the strength we draw from each other when we are united in purpose and faith. This unity is crucial for overcoming the battles we face, both individually and collectively.
The sermon also touched on the principle of seed time and harvest, highlighting the importance of patience and faithfulness in our giving and service. Just as a farmer waits for the seed to sprout, we must trust in God's timing and remain steadfast in our commitments. Our faithfulness in small things prepares us for greater responsibilities and blessings.
Finally, we were reminded of the weight of our "yes" to God. Saying yes to God means more than just words; it involves our time, energy, and resources. We must be honest with ourselves and with God about our commitments, ensuring that our actions align with His will. This honesty and integrity in our relationship with God enable us to support and uplift one another effectively.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Self-Examination and Repentance: Before partaking in communion, it is crucial to examine ourselves and repent for our sins. This act of self-examination ensures that we approach the Lord's table with a clean heart, honoring the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Taking communion in an unworthy manner is a serious offense, as it disrespects the body and blood of Christ. [22:42]
2. Unity and Support in the Body of Christ: The story of Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and Hur teaches us the importance of supporting one another in our spiritual battles. When Moses' hands grew tired, Aaron and Hur held them up, ensuring victory for the Israelites. This act of support symbolizes the strength we draw from each other when we are united in purpose and faith. [46:11]
3. Faithfulness in Small Things: Our faithfulness in small tasks prepares us for greater responsibilities and blessings. Jesus taught that those who can be trusted with little can also be trusted with much. This principle applies to all areas of our lives, including our service and giving. By being faithful in the small things, we demonstrate our readiness for greater assignments from God. [16:23]
4. The Weight of Our Yes to God: Saying yes to God involves more than just words; it requires our time, energy, and resources. We must be honest with ourselves and with God about our commitments, ensuring that our actions align with His will. This honesty and integrity enable us to support and uplift one another effectively, fulfilling our roles in the body of Christ. [17:32]
5. God's Timing and Patience: The principle of seed time and harvest teaches us the importance of patience and trust in God's timing. Just as a farmer waits for the seed to sprout, we must remain steadfast in our commitments, trusting that God will bring the harvest in due time. Our patience and faithfulness during the waiting period are crucial for experiencing God's blessings. [33:39]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[22:42] - Preparing for Communion
[25:06] - Taking Communion Together
[26:58] - Meet and Greet
[32:09] - The Principle of Seed Time and Harvest
[33:39] - Patience in the Waiting Period
[35:08] - Vision Statement and Announcements
[44:11] - Introduction to the Sermon
[45:11] - The Story of Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and Hur
[46:11] - The Importance of Support
[47:01] - The Lord is My Banner
[47:54] - Hold Me Up
[49:47] - Being All In for God
[50:45] - Doing It for the God Reasons
[52:04] - The Right Thing vs. The God Thing
[53:09] - The Concept of a Battle Buddy
[55:39] - The Importance of Communication
[57:45] - Accountability and Responsibility
[59:47] - Handling Offense and Forgiveness
[01:02:33] - The Israelites' Battle with the Amalekites
[01:06:25] - Identifying Your Support
[01:09:32] - Being Present and Prepared
[01:11:14] - Faithfulness in Small Things
[01:16:23] - Trusting God with Our Yes
[01:19:27] - The Cost of Our Yes
[01:23:09] - Self-Examination and Prioritizing God
[01:29:07] - Serving with Integrity
[01:30:35] - Seeking First the Kingdom of God
[01:34:07] - Aligning with God's Will
[01:37:26] - Daily Dying to Self
[01:38:25] - Closing Prayer and Invitation to Know Jesus
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 17:8-16 (NIV)
> The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.” So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. Then the Lord said to Moses, “Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it, because I will completely blot out the name of Amalek from under heaven.” Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner. He said, “Because hands were lifted up against the throne of the Lord, the Lord will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation.”
2. 1 Corinthians 11:23-28 (NIV)
> For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.
3. Luke 16:10-13 (NIV)
> “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own? No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
### Observation Questions
1. What did Moses instruct Joshua to do in Exodus 17:8-16, and what was the outcome of Joshua's actions? ([45:11])
2. According to 1 Corinthians 11:23-28, what are the steps and significance of taking communion? ([25:06])
3. In Luke 16:10-13, what does Jesus say about being trustworthy with little and much? ([16:23])
4. How did Aaron and Hur support Moses during the battle against the Amalekites? ([46:11])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is self-examination important before taking communion, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 11:23-28? How does this practice honor Jesus' sacrifice? ([22:42])
2. How does the story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur in Exodus 17 illustrate the importance of unity and support within the body of Christ? ([46:11])
3. What does Jesus' teaching in Luke 16:10-13 imply about the relationship between faithfulness in small tasks and greater responsibilities? ([16:23])
4. How does the principle of seed time and harvest, as discussed in the sermon, relate to the concept of patience and trust in God's timing? ([33:39])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you took communion. Did you take the time to examine yourself and repent? How can you make this a more meaningful practice in the future? ([22:42])
2. Think about a situation where you needed support from others. How did their support impact the outcome? How can you be an Aaron or Hur to someone in your life right now? ([46:11])
3. Identify a small task or responsibility in your life. How can you be more faithful in this area, trusting that it prepares you for greater responsibilities? ([16:23])
4. Consider a commitment you have made to God. Are your actions and resources aligned with this commitment? What changes can you make to ensure your "yes" to God is genuine and wholehearted? ([17:32])
5. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for something you prayed for. How did you handle the waiting period? What can you do to cultivate more patience and trust in God's timing? ([33:39])
6. How can you create a habit of self-examination in your daily life to ensure your actions align with God's will? ([22:42])
7. Think about a person or group in your church who might need support. What practical steps can you take this week to offer them the help they need? ([46:11])
Devotional
Day 1: The Importance of Self-Examination and Repentance
Before partaking in communion, it is crucial to examine ourselves and repent for our sins. This act of self-examination ensures that we approach the Lord's table with a clean heart, honoring the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Taking communion in an unworthy manner is a serious offense, as it disrespects the body and blood of Christ. Self-examination involves a deep and honest look at our lives, identifying areas where we have fallen short and seeking God's forgiveness. This process not only prepares us for communion but also strengthens our relationship with God, allowing us to live in a way that honors Him.
Repentance is more than just feeling sorry for our sins; it involves a genuine turning away from sinful behaviors and a commitment to follow God's ways. As we prepare for communion, we should ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden sins and help us to repent sincerely. This act of repentance brings us closer to God and reminds us of the grace and mercy we have received through Jesus Christ. By approaching communion with a repentant heart, we acknowledge the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and reaffirm our commitment to live according to His will. [22:42]
1 Corinthians 11:28-29 (ESV): "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."
Reflection: What specific sins do you need to confess and repent of before taking communion? How can you make self-examination a regular part of your spiritual practice?
Day 2: Unity and Support in the Body of Christ
The story of Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and Hur teaches us the importance of supporting one another in our spiritual battles. When Moses' hands grew tired, Aaron and Hur held them up, ensuring victory for the Israelites. This act of support symbolizes the strength we draw from each other when we are united in purpose and faith. In our spiritual journey, we will face challenges and battles that we cannot overcome alone. It is in these moments that the support and encouragement of fellow believers become crucial.
Unity in the body of Christ means standing together, lifting each other up, and providing the necessary support to persevere through difficult times. This unity is not just about physical presence but also about being spiritually and emotionally available for one another. By fostering a sense of community and accountability, we create an environment where everyone can thrive and grow in their faith. Let us be intentional in building strong relationships within the church, offering our support and encouragement to those in need. [46:11]
Exodus 17:12 (ESV): "But Moses' hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun."
Reflection: Who in your life needs your support and encouragement right now? How can you be more intentional in offering your help and prayers to them?
Day 3: Faithfulness in Small Things
Our faithfulness in small tasks prepares us for greater responsibilities and blessings. Jesus taught that those who can be trusted with little can also be trusted with much. This principle applies to all areas of our lives, including our service and giving. By being faithful in the small things, we demonstrate our readiness for greater assignments from God. It is easy to overlook the significance of small tasks, but they are often the training ground for larger responsibilities.
Being faithful in small things means doing our best in every situation, no matter how insignificant it may seem. It involves a commitment to excellence and integrity in all that we do. When we are faithful in the little things, we build a foundation of trustworthiness and reliability that God can use for His greater purposes. Let us not despise the day of small beginnings but embrace every opportunity to serve and give with a faithful heart. [16:23]
Luke 16:10 (ESV): "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much."
Reflection: What small tasks or responsibilities have you been neglecting? How can you approach them with a renewed sense of faithfulness and commitment?
Day 4: The Weight of Our Yes to God
Saying yes to God involves more than just words; it requires our time, energy, and resources. We must be honest with ourselves and with God about our commitments, ensuring that our actions align with His will. This honesty and integrity enable us to support and uplift one another effectively, fulfilling our roles in the body of Christ. When we say yes to God, we are making a commitment to follow His lead and to prioritize His will above our own desires.
This commitment often comes with a cost, as it requires us to sacrifice our time, energy, and resources for the sake of God's kingdom. However, the rewards of saying yes to God far outweigh the sacrifices. By aligning our actions with God's will, we experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives. Let us be mindful of the weight of our yes to God and strive to live in a way that reflects our commitment to Him. [17:32]
Matthew 16:24 (ESV): "Then Jesus told his disciples, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'"
Reflection: What specific areas of your life require a deeper commitment to God? How can you ensure that your actions align with your yes to Him?
Day 5: God's Timing and Patience
The principle of seed time and harvest teaches us the importance of patience and trust in God's timing. Just as a farmer waits for the seed to sprout, we must remain steadfast in our commitments, trusting that God will bring the harvest in due time. Our patience and faithfulness during the waiting period are crucial for experiencing God's blessings. It is easy to become discouraged when we do not see immediate results, but God's timing is always perfect.
Trusting in God's timing requires us to have faith that He is working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see it. It involves a willingness to wait patiently and to continue being faithful in our service and giving. By trusting in God's timing, we demonstrate our reliance on His wisdom and sovereignty. Let us cultivate a heart of patience and trust, knowing that God will bring the harvest in His perfect time. [33:39]
Galatians 6:9 (ESV): "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's timing more? How can you practice patience and faithfulness during the waiting period?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "This is the reason why we give because at the end of the day this is how the kingdom moves forward right and I learned a long time ago that my seed is directly connected to the house that I serve in my seed is directly connected to the church that I that I live in that I grow in right so where we where we uh where we get food from and where we eat from and where we grow from and where we do our work is because we understand that the seed time and harvest is a it's a prince it's a kingdom principle." [32:09] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We pray that you uh sense and experience and that you have a personal experience with the lord and savior jesus christ today we thank you for being here with us and at this time what we'll do is we will move forward and we'll meet and greet so let's do that real quick tell somebody what's up give them a high five give them a high five and we'll see you next time hug we gonna move forward hallelujah hallelujah right hallelujah glad to see everybody today glad you're here with us why don't you just give yourselves a hand of praise for making it into the house say this is the day that the lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it." [26:58] (266 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. And then all these other things will be added. But we as humans, because there is a way that seems right to us. Somehow God ends up. In the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth spot. Because there's a way that seems right. Like this is more important than that. And if that's where you are, that's cool. Because, look, at the end of the day, I'm there, too." [01:30:35] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have to do what God is calling us to do, because when God calls me to do it, I understand that he shields me and he covers me in this thing. And no matter how frustrated I get, no matter how disillusioned I get, no matter how mad I get, no matter how upset I get, no matter how mad, how bad I want to just drop it and say I'm done and walk out the door. At the end of the day, I understand I'm doing it for him." [50:45] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have to be careful about how we handle. Our support. Because when we're not careful how we handle our support. What happens is offense happens. Both of us got caught sleeping. But now we're both blaming one another. Not blaming ourselves. We're not taking the onus on us. We're blaming one another. And watch this. The scripture says in Proverbs 18 that a brother offended is harder to win. Then. In a strong city." [59:47] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "We have to be faithful and a lot of times what happens is because we're not faithful the things that the things that God has given us can't produce faith in us because we're not faithful to begin with again I'm not I'm not talking about nobody here I'm just preaching I'm just giving it to him I'm just giving it to you the way he gave it to me faithful in fact I forget where it is but I'll paraphrase it Jesus said when he comes back he said when the son of man returns will he find anybody operating in faith when the son of man returns will he find anybody operating in faith moving in faith." [01:14:39] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We have to be careful about how we handle. Our support. Because when we're not careful how we handle our support. What happens is offense happens. Both of us got caught sleeping. But now we're both blaming one another. Not blaming ourselves. We're not taking the onus on us. We're blaming one another. And watch this. The scripture says in Proverbs 18 that a brother offended is harder to win. Then. In a strong city." [59:47] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We have to do what God is calling us to do, because when God calls me to do it, I understand that he shields me and he covers me in this thing. And no matter how frustrated I get, no matter how disillusioned I get, no matter how mad I get, no matter how upset I get, no matter how mad, how bad I want to just drop it and say I'm done and walk out the door. At the end of the day, I understand I'm doing it for him." [50:45] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have to be careful about how we handle. Our support. Because when we're not careful how we handle our support. What happens is offense happens. Both of us got caught sleeping. But now we're both blaming one another. Not blaming ourselves. We're not taking the onus on us. We're blaming one another. And watch this. The scripture says in Proverbs 18 that a brother offended is harder to win. Then. In a strong city." [59:47] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have to be faithful and a lot of times what happens is because we're not faithful the things that the things that God has given us can't produce faith in us because we're not faithful to begin with again I'm not I'm not talking about nobody here I'm just preaching I'm just giving it to him I'm just giving it to you the way he gave it to me faithful in fact I forget where it is but I'll paraphrase it Jesus said when he comes back he said when the son of man returns will he find anybody operating in faith when the son of man returns will he find anybody operating in faith moving in faith." [01:14:39] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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