Living Faith: Actions, Relationships, and Boldness in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the importance of living a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ. We began with a light-hearted discussion about favorite Fourth of July foods, but quickly transitioned into a deeper conversation about the eternal significance of our actions. We explored the idea that our deeds on this side of eternity have consequences, both good and bad, and that they matter in the grand scheme of God's judgment. This isn't about questioning salvation but understanding that our actions are a reflection of our worship and relationship with God.
We also discussed the importance of how we communicate our faith to others, especially those who do not yet believe. It's crucial to approach people with grace and patience, rather than condemnation. We shared personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate how being judgmental or confrontational can often push people further away from the faith. Instead, we should focus on building relationships and living out our faith authentically, which can open doors for meaningful conversations about Jesus.
Furthermore, we touched on the concept of sanctification—the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. This is a journey that requires patience, both with ourselves and with others. We emphasized that it's not our job to sanctify others before they even know Jesus; rather, we should introduce them to Christ first and let the Holy Spirit work in their lives.
Lastly, we encouraged everyone to be bold in their faith, to live differently, and to be prepared to share the hope that we have in Jesus. Whether it's through simple acts of kindness, sharing a Bible verse, or having deeper conversations, every action can be a step towards leading someone closer to Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Eternal Significance of Actions: Our actions on this side of eternity have eternal consequences. Good deeds reflect our worship and relationship with God, while bad actions have their own repercussions. This understanding should motivate us to live a life that honors God, not out of fear of losing salvation, but out of love and reverence for Him. [09:59]
2. Grace and Patience in Evangelism: When sharing our faith, it's crucial to approach others with grace and patience rather than condemnation. Yelling or being confrontational often pushes people further away. Instead, build relationships and live out your faith authentically, which can open doors for meaningful conversations about Jesus. [12:28]
3. Sanctification vs. Salvation: It's important to understand the difference between sanctification and salvation. Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ, which happens after one accepts Jesus. Trying to impose Christian standards on non-believers before they know Jesus is counterproductive. Introduce them to Christ first and let the Holy Spirit work in their lives. [13:44]
4. Boldness in Faith: Be bold in your faith and live differently. Whether it's through simple acts of kindness, sharing a Bible verse, or having deeper conversations, every action can be a step towards leading someone closer to Christ. Don't be afraid to share your faith and be a light in your community. [22:09]
5. Importance of Relationship with Jesus: Emphasize the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus from a young age. This relationship is a lifelong journey of knowing Him more deeply. Encourage young people to take their faith seriously and understand that their relationship with Jesus is the foundation for everything else in their lives. [38:04]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:08] - Introduction and Bracket Discussion
[02:20] - Fourth of July Food Debate
[07:27] - Group Outings and Church Events
[09:59] - Eternal Significance of Actions
[10:49] - Reaching People with Grace
[12:28] - Biblical Standards and Conviction
[13:03] - Salvation vs. Sanctification
[14:24] - Ministering with Patience
[17:08] - Teaching Jesus is the One
[19:05] - Sharing Faith in Daily Life
[21:17] - Building on the Foundation of Jesus
[22:09] - Boldness in Faith
[23:04] - Living Differently
[25:22] - Long-term Evangelism
[28:01] - Community and Knowing People
[29:43] - Staying Prepared and Prayed Up
[30:39] - Apologetics and Defending Faith
[33:09] - Stopping the Backslide
[36:16] - Importance of Relationship with Jesus
[38:04] - Taking Faith Seriously
[40:23] - Guiding the Next Generation
[42:37] - Final Thoughts and Encouragement
[43:24] - Closing Remarks and Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15: "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. 1 Peter 3:15: "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
3. Matthew 5:16: "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Corinthians 3:10-15, what materials are mentioned for building on the foundation of Jesus Christ, and what will happen to each type of material?
2. In 1 Peter 3:15, what are believers instructed to be prepared to do, and how should they do it?
3. What does Matthew 5:16 say about the purpose of letting our light shine before others?
4. In the sermon, what were some examples given of how being judgmental or confrontational can push people further away from faith? [12:28]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of building on the foundation of Jesus Christ with different materials (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) relate to the idea of the eternal significance of our actions discussed in the sermon? [09:59]
2. What does it mean to "make a defense" for the hope that is in you with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15), and how does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on grace and patience in evangelism? [12:28]
3. How can letting our light shine before others (Matthew 5:16) be seen as an act of boldness in faith, as encouraged in the sermon? [22:09]
4. The sermon mentioned the difference between sanctification and salvation. How does this distinction help us understand our role in sharing faith with non-believers? [13:44]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily actions. Are there specific areas where you can better reflect your faith in Jesus Christ? How can you ensure your actions have eternal significance? [09:59]
2. Think of a recent conversation where you shared your faith. Did you approach it with grace and patience? How can you improve your approach to be more effective in future conversations? [12:28]
3. Identify a person in your life who does not yet believe in Jesus. What steps can you take to build a relationship with them and authentically live out your faith in front of them? [12:28]
4. Consider your own journey of sanctification. What areas of your life do you feel need more growth to become more like Christ? How can you be patient with yourself in this process? [13:44]
5. How can you be bolder in your faith this week? Think of one specific action, whether it’s a simple act of kindness, sharing a Bible verse, or having a deeper conversation about Jesus. [22:09]
6. Reflect on your relationship with Jesus. How can you deepen this relationship and make it the foundation for everything else in your life? What practical steps can you take to prioritize this relationship? [38:04]
7. How can you encourage young people in your community to take their faith seriously and develop a personal relationship with Jesus? What role can you play in guiding the next generation? [40:23]
Devotional
Day 1: The Eternal Weight of Our Actions
Our actions on this side of eternity carry eternal significance. They are not just fleeting moments but reflections of our worship and relationship with God. Good deeds are a testament to our love and reverence for Him, while bad actions have their own repercussions. This understanding should motivate us to live a life that honors God, not out of fear of losing salvation, but out of a deep love and respect for Him. Our daily choices, whether big or small, contribute to the grand tapestry of our faith journey and have lasting impacts beyond what we can see. [09:59]
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."
Reflection: Think about a recent decision you made. How did it reflect your relationship with God? What can you do today to ensure your actions align more closely with your faith?
Day 2: Grace and Patience in Sharing Faith
When sharing our faith, it is crucial to approach others with grace and patience rather than condemnation. Being judgmental or confrontational often pushes people further away from the faith. Instead, we should focus on building relationships and living out our faith authentically. This approach can open doors for meaningful conversations about Jesus. By showing grace and patience, we reflect the love of Christ and create a welcoming environment for others to explore their faith. [12:28]
Colossians 4:5-6 (ESV): "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who does not yet believe in Jesus. How can you show them grace and patience this week? What specific actions can you take to build a relationship with them?
Day 3: Understanding Sanctification and Salvation
It's important to understand the difference between sanctification and salvation. Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ, which happens after one accepts Jesus. Trying to impose Christian standards on non-believers before they know Jesus is counterproductive. Instead, we should introduce them to Christ first and let the Holy Spirit work in their lives. This approach respects the journey each person is on and acknowledges that transformation is a work of God, not something we can force. [13:44]
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (ESV): "Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it."
Reflection: Reflect on your interactions with non-believers. Are there ways you might be imposing Christian standards prematurely? How can you better introduce them to Christ and trust the Holy Spirit to work in their lives?
Day 4: Boldness in Living Out Faith
Be bold in your faith and live differently. Whether it's through simple acts of kindness, sharing a Bible verse, or having deeper conversations, every action can be a step towards leading someone closer to Christ. Don't be afraid to share your faith and be a light in your community. Boldness in faith means being willing to stand out and make a difference, even when it's uncomfortable. It’s about letting your life be a testament to the hope you have in Jesus. [22:09]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you can be bolder in your faith. What specific action can you take today to let your light shine more brightly in your community?
Day 5: The Importance of a Personal Relationship with Jesus
Emphasize the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus from a young age. This relationship is a lifelong journey of knowing Him more deeply. Encourage young people to take their faith seriously and understand that their relationship with Jesus is the foundation for everything else in their lives. A strong, personal relationship with Jesus provides the strength and guidance needed to navigate life's challenges and joys. [38:04]
Jeremiah 9:23-24 (ESV): "Thus says the Lord: 'Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.'"
Reflection: Reflect on your personal relationship with Jesus. How can you deepen this relationship today? What steps can you take to ensure that your faith is the foundation of your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "You don't have to affirm a lifestyle to be nice to the person and think about their humanity. Yeah. I get why people are mad when influencers are like, they come out and they're like, Oh, I'm pro this. I kind of get it. Also to speak to that, like every NFL team, except for one posted a pride post. So don't watch the NFL this year because you're mad at miss Rachel. Cause she like, you know what I mean?" [15:39] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "How about just being bold with the fact that you are Christian? How about being bold with the fact that, yeah, this is my church. Like this is my friends. They all are. This is what I'm reading in my Bible. Like maybe here's the value of posting your verse of the day that I disliked so much. I've just worked myself in a circle there. But just being bold with that." [23:04] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Whenever you have conversations, live differently. Like when you go to work, live differently. When you're with your friends, be different. Like I don't, what, how, how are you benefiting reaching more people if you only hang out with people who've already been reached? Yeah. Like as a believer, go and make disciples, like go, go be a part of the community of people who don't." [23:46] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If you're someone who's not comfortable with it, how about just being bold with the fact that you are Christian? How about being bold with the fact that, yeah, this is my church. Like this is my friends. They all are. This is what I'm reading in my Bible. Like maybe here's the value of posting your verse of the day that I disliked so much. I've just worked myself in a circle there. But just being bold with that." [23:04] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus is the one. Jesus is the one. He appointed us to tell everyone that Jesus is the one. Mm. Yeah. I think that's the important piece. Oh, a hundred percent. Not that your sin is wrong. Not that it's worse than my sin, but that Jesus is the one go and preach that he is the one." [18:37] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "It's about the, the value of the actions that we portray on this side of eternity. Um, and essentially it's a, it's a counter suit to, I believe Jesus is Christ. I believe he's Lord. I am saved. Now I'm going to go do whatever I want. This is kind of the alter conversation of like the things that we do here matter eternally. There is a consequence for bad action. There's a glory for good action." [09:59] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I think that I really think that more so the, the object. Yeah. The object of our, our process of faith should be the worship of God in the first place and that everything else is kind of the by-product of that. This is that this is like, okay, you profess that you are followers of Jesus. You believe that he is God, you believe he is Lord and savior. Now here's why it's important to live the life under the standard and that God has set aside for you because in the end, there's a judgment for the right things and the wrong things that you have done, but it's a consequence of the worship. It's not the worship itself." [11:40] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It's people forget that there's like this idea of salvation, understanding that Jesus is Lord. And then there's sanctification, which is the development of faith. And I was like, that's a great point. Like these people are not, they're trying to like sanctify these people before they're saved in the first place. You know, they're trying to give them the standard and be like, here's what the Bible says. And it's like, they don't believe that the Bible is right. Like you're missing the point." [13:44] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I think that people get, they get really caught up in this, like, um, this idea that if I am nice to these people, I'm affirming what they believe could not be further from the truth, right? be nice to everyone. You don't have to affirm a lifestyle to be nice to the person and think about their humanity." [15:39] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "What will you have built when it's tested by the fire? Yep. Will it still be standing? What will you have done in this place that translates to the next? Is it precious? Is it heavy metal? Or is it wood stray haul? No. Hey. Stopping the backslide." [42:37] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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