Living Authentically: Building a Genuine Spiritual Foundation
Summary
Today, I began our sermon by sharing a humorous story about a man who thought a state trooper was returning his wife, which he had run away with. This light-hearted opening led into a deeper exploration of authenticity in our spiritual lives, particularly focusing on the theme of our ongoing message series, "Piece by Piece," where we add to our spiritual journey week by week.
I shared a personal story from my childhood about pretending to own dirt bikes to fit in with peers, which paralleled how sometimes, as Christians, we might also pretend to be more spiritual than we are. This set the stage for a discussion on the choice between being an 'artificial' Christian and an 'authentic' Christian, emphasizing that God calls us to authenticity.
We delved into the teachings of Paul to the Corinthians, highlighting the dangers of building our spiritual foundation on anything less than the teachings and character of Jesus Christ. I stressed the importance of building with materials that will withstand the test of time and fire, symbolizing the final judgment where our works will be tested for their eternal value.
The sermon also included a powerful reminder of the role of motives in our actions. I recounted an experience speaking at a prison ministry, which underscored the importance of authenticity in our testimony and interactions with others. This story illustrated how being real about our struggles can deeply connect and minister to others who might be experiencing similar challenges.
We discussed the concept of 'sincere' stemming from the Latin 'sine cera,' meaning 'without wax,' used to describe statues that were whole and without imperfections hidden by wax. This analogy was used to encourage our congregation to live lives without pretense, being whole and genuine in our faith and actions.
In closing, I urged the congregation to take practical steps towards authenticity by being transparent about their faith and struggles, which not only aligns with how Jesus lived but also deeply impacts those around us. The call to action was clear: to live authentically, reflecting Christ in all we do, ensuring our motives align with God's will, and preparing ourselves for the eternal rewards that come from genuine service to God and others.
### Key Takeaways
1. Authenticity in our spiritual life begins with the foundation we build upon. Just as Paul warned the Corinthians, our works must be built on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ, not on the shifting sands of societal approval or personal gain. This ensures our spiritual structure can withstand the tests and trials of life. [05:47]
2. Our motives play a crucial role in the authenticity of our actions. When we serve or give, it should not be for recognition or repayment but out of a genuine heart for God and His kingdom. This purity of motive is what transforms our actions into acts of worship and true service to God. [27:47]
3. The concept of 'sincere' or 'without wax' challenges us to live without hiding our flaws or pretending to be something we are not. In a world that often rewards presentation over substance, God calls us to a life of integrity and wholeness. [47:49]
4. Authenticity is not just about being true to ourselves but being true to God's calling and design for our lives. It involves transparency, where we openly share our struggles and victories, which can lead to deeper relationships and more effective discipleship. [43:40]
5. Engaging in authentic relationships and community impacts not only our spiritual growth but also our ability to reach others for Christ. By being real about our faith journey, we can better connect with others and fulfill our call to make disciples. [39:17]
### Youtube Chapters
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [00:52] - Humorous Opening Story
- [01:39] - Childhood Story of Pretense
- [03:35] - Choosing Authenticity
- [04:38] - Paul's Teaching on Authentic Foundations
- [16:33] - The Role of Motives in Authenticity
- [42:24] - Prison Ministry Testimony
- [43:40] - The Power of Being Real
- [46:22] - Historical Insight on 'Sincere'
- [47:49] - Closing Remarks on Authentic Living
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 3:9-15 (ESV)
> "For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building. According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire."
2. 2 Corinthians 5:10 (ESV)
> "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil."
3. Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)
> "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the two types of materials Paul mentions that can be used to build on the foundation of Jesus Christ? (1 Corinthians 3:12)
2. According to 1 Corinthians 3:13, what will reveal the quality of each person's work?
3. What does Paul say will happen to the work that does not survive the test of fire? (1 Corinthians 3:15)
4. How does Colossians 3:23-24 instruct us to approach our work and service?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize the importance of building on the foundation of Jesus Christ with materials that can withstand fire? (1 Corinthians 3:12-13) [05:47]
2. How does the concept of the judgment seat of Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:10 influence the way Christians should live their lives? [28:56]
3. What does it mean to serve the Lord with pure motives, as described in Colossians 3:23-24? How does this relate to the sermon’s emphasis on authenticity? [27:47]
4. In what ways can the analogy of 'sincere' or 'without wax' be applied to our daily lives as Christians? [46:22]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you may have been tempted to present yourself as more spiritual than you are. How can you strive for greater authenticity in your faith journey? [02:34]
2. The sermon mentioned the importance of motives in our actions. Think about a recent good deed you performed. What was your motive behind it, and how can you ensure your future actions are done with pure motives? [27:47]
3. How can you build your spiritual foundation on Jesus Christ in practical ways this week? Consider specific actions or habits you can adopt. [05:47]
4. The sermon highlighted the importance of being transparent about our struggles. Identify one struggle you are currently facing. How can sharing this struggle with a trusted friend or small group help you grow in authenticity? [43:40]
5. In what ways can you be more authentic in your relationships and community? Think of one specific relationship where you can practice greater transparency and integrity. [39:17]
6. How can you use your personal testimony, including your weaknesses, to connect with and disciple others? Reflect on a recent opportunity you had to share your faith and how you can improve in being authentic. [42:24]
7. Consider the concept of 'sincere' or 'without wax.' What are some areas in your life where you might be hiding imperfections? How can you work towards living a life of integrity and wholeness? [46:22]
Devotional
Day 1: Foundations of Authentic Faith
Building a spiritual life requires a foundation rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Just as a house built on sand is vulnerable to collapse, a spiritual life built on anything less than Christ is unstable and prone to falter under life's pressures. It's essential to examine what underlies our faith—are our actions and beliefs anchored in the solid rock of Christ's teachings, or are they swayed by the shifting sands of societal approval and personal gain? This foundation not only supports us during trials but also shapes our growth and resilience in faith. [05:47]
"For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done." (1 Corinthians 3:11-13 ESV)
Reflection: What aspects of your life are currently influenced more by societal approval than by Christ's teachings? How can you begin to realign these areas to the solid foundation of Jesus?
Day 2: The Purity of Motives in Service
Our actions and service within the kingdom of God should stem from pure motives, not tainted by the desire for recognition or repayment. When we serve with the right intentions, our actions become genuine acts of worship and true service to God. This purity of motive ensures that our service is not just an outward show but a reflection of our deep love for God and His people. Reflecting on why we do what we do is crucial in maintaining the authenticity of our faith and service. [27:47]
"But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:3-4 ESV)
Reflection: Consider a recent act of service or giving. Reflect on your motives—were they purely for God's glory, or was there a part of you seeking human approval?
Day 3: Living Without Wax
The concept of 'sincere' or 'without wax' challenges us to live lives that are whole and genuine, without hiding our flaws behind a facade. In a world that often values appearance over substance, God calls us to integrity and wholeness. This means being honest about our imperfections and not pretending to be something we are not. Living a life 'without wax' allows us to be true to ourselves and to God, fostering a deeper connection with Him and with others. [47:49]
"Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." (Ephesians 4:25 ESV)
Reflection: What are some areas in your life where you might be 'applying wax' to appear more whole or perfect than you are? How can you start to remove that wax and live more authentically?
Day 4: Transparency in Our Spiritual Journey
Authenticity involves being transparent about our struggles and victories, which can lead to deeper relationships and more effective discipleship. By sharing our true selves, we allow others to see God's work in our lives, encouraging them in their faith journeys. This transparency not only helps us to live true to God's calling but also fosters a community where honesty and support are paramount. [43:40]
"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." (James 5:16 ESV)
Reflection: Who in your community can you be more transparent with about your spiritual struggles and victories? How might this transparency enhance your relationships and spiritual growth?
Day 5: The Impact of Authentic Relationships
Engaging in authentic relationships and community has a profound impact on our spiritual growth and our ability to reach others for Christ. By being real about our faith journey, we not only grow personally but also empower others to explore and deepen their faith. Authenticity in our relationships encourages a culture of genuine discipleship and outreach, where people feel valued and connected. [39:17]
"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: How can you foster more authentic relationships within your community? What steps can you take this week to encourage openness and genuine connection?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We live today, in my opinion, in one of the most propagandized fake cultures since the beginning of mankind. We are living in one of the most fake times possible... And yet, God calls Christians to authenticity. He calls us to be people that are willing to speak truth and love in one of the most fake times possible." [12:59]
2. "We have the most unbelievable opportunity right now in front of us. And that's to build God's kingdom. And we get to do it together and we get to do it as a team. And it's so exciting." [37:04]
3. "You may not know this, but the goal of being a disciple is to make disciples. Jesus said, go into all the world and make disciples. Who did he tell that to? His disciples. So he told his current disciples to go out and make disciples." [38:04]
4. "We want to be authentic and talking to people about your faith. Authenticity is what changed people's lives when Jesus walked the face of the earth. Why would we do anything different?" [39:17]
5. "We might impress people with our strengths, but we connect with them through our weaknesses. Some of you have forgotten to show weakness. You've stopped showing vulnerability. She may be the very thing that enables you to make disciples." [41:25]
### Quotes for Members
1. "The church has to decide, will we be authentic or will we be artificial? I've been a part of a lot of churches that are artificial... We have an authentic God. We're going to be an authentic church." [14:16]
2. "Take steps forward in your faith. You may not be where you want to be today. That's okay. Just take one step forward. And the next day, take one more step forward and keep moving forward in your faith." [16:33]
3. "Everything that we do for God that is not genuine is going to be burned up, guys. It's pointless to do good stuff for God unless it's genuine. So let's be authentic. Like God." [20:09]
4. "Being authentic means doing the right thing for the right reasons unto God. We're doing it as worship unto God. That's when you're authentic." [24:08]
5. "Sincere is believed to have originated with the Romans... It's actually in the Latin, that word sine means without, and sere actually means wax. So holistic statue actually means wax... That's what God wants us to be, without wax, without pretension, without pretending, being people that are whole, integrous, people that are authentic." [46:22]
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