Living Intentionally: Sharing the Hope of Jesus
Summary
### Summary
Over the past few weeks, our church has been actively involved in serving both locally and internationally. We began with a trip to the Lighthouse Family Retreat, where 19 of us served families dealing with childhood cancer. This retreat was a powerful opportunity to share the hope found in Jesus Christ with families from various spiritual backgrounds. Recently, 10 of us returned from India, where we partnered with a local organization to train leaders for after-school Bible clubs. Despite the opposition to the gospel in India, about 100 people committed to leading these clubs, using English as a tool to attract children and share the message of Christ.
These mission trips remind us of the intentionality required in our daily lives to fulfill God's mission. Whether on a mission trip or in our everyday routines, we are called to point people to Jesus. The early church in the book of Acts grew because believers were intentional about sharing Christ, and we are called to do the same today. Peter and John exemplify this in Acts 3 and 4, where they heal a man and seize the opportunity to share the gospel, despite their busy schedules and the opposition they faced.
We have been given hope, security, and power through Christ, and we are called to share these gifts with others. Our lives tell a story, and we should strive to make that story about Jesus. Peter and John’s interactions in Acts 3 and 4 show us that proclaiming Jesus is not just about sharing miracles but about sharing who He is—the Holy and Righteous One, the Author of Life, and the Cornerstone. Jesus heals, wipes away sins, and will ultimately restore all things.
We are all storytellers, and the story we should be telling is one of Jesus' transformative power. Despite the opposition we may face, we are called to share the name of Jesus boldly. The apostles couldn't help but speak about what they had seen and heard, and we should have the same urgency. If you haven't yet acknowledged Jesus as your Lord and Savior, today is the day to do so. Surrender to Him and receive the eternal life He offers.
### Key Takeaways
1. Intentionality in Mission: Whether on a mission trip or in our daily routines, we are called to live with intentionality, pointing people to Jesus. This mission is not confined to special trips but is a daily calling to share the hope and love of Christ with those around us. [25:23]
2. Gifts to Share: We have been given hope, security, and power through Christ. These gifts are not meant to be hoarded but shared with others. The hope of eternal life, the security of a firm foundation in Christ, and the power that raised Jesus from the dead are all things we can offer to those in need. [29:37]
3. The Story We Tell: Our lives are constantly telling a story. We can choose to tell a story of anxiety and worldly pursuits, or we can tell the story of Jesus and His transformative power. The story of Jesus is one of hope, healing, and eternal life, and it is the story the world needs to hear. [31:27]
4. Proclaiming Jesus Boldly: Despite the opposition we may face, we are called to proclaim Jesus boldly. The apostles in Acts couldn't help but speak about what they had seen and heard, and we should have the same urgency. Sharing Jesus is not just about talking about church or a nebulous idea of God; it is about sharing the person and work of Jesus Christ. [44:57]
5. Transformation Through Jesus: Jesus transforms ordinary people into powerful witnesses of His grace. The apostles were unschooled, ordinary men, but their time with Jesus transformed them into bold proclaimers of the gospel. This same transformation is available to us as we spend time with Jesus and allow His power to work through us. [41:16]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[23:51] - Mission Trip to India
[25:23] - Daily Mission and Intentionality
[26:30] - Peter and John’s Example
[28:13] - The Gift of Jesus
[29:37] - Sharing Hope, Security, and Power
[31:27] - The Story We Tell
[32:21] - Proclaiming Jesus
[35:39] - Jesus Heals and Restores
[37:09] - Eternal Family in Christ
[38:34] - Every Good Gift from God
[39:12] - Salvation in Jesus Alone
[41:16] - Transformation Through Jesus
[44:57] - Boldly Proclaiming Jesus
[47:13] - Invitation to Accept Jesus
[47:43] - Communion
[51:54] - The Last Supper
[52:53] - Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 3:1-10 - The Healing of the Lame Beggar
2. Acts 4:1-22 - Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin
3. Ephesians 1:18-20 - Paul's Prayer for the Ephesians
#### Observation Questions
1. What were Peter and John doing when they encountered the lame beggar in Acts 3? ([26:30])
2. How did Peter and John respond to the beggar's request for money? What did they offer instead? ([28:13])
3. In Acts 4, what was the reaction of the religious leaders to Peter and John's actions and message? ([32:43])
4. According to Ephesians 1:18-20, what are the three things Paul prays for the believers to understand? ([29:09])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Peter and John chose to stop and help the lame beggar despite their busy schedule? What does this tell us about their priorities? ([27:18])
2. How does the healing of the lame beggar serve as a demonstration of Jesus' power and authority? ([28:13])
3. What does it mean for Jesus to be described as the "Author of Life" and the "Cornerstone" in Acts 3 and 4? How do these titles impact our understanding of His role in our lives? ([33:36])
4. In Ephesians 1:18-20, Paul mentions hope, inheritance, and power. How do these gifts from God equip us to share the gospel with others? ([29:37])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily routine. How can you incorporate intentionality in pointing people to Jesus in your everyday activities? ([25:23])
2. Think of a time when you felt insecure or hopeless. How did your faith in Christ provide you with security and hope? How can you share this experience with someone in need? ([30:06])
3. Our lives tell a story. What story are you currently telling through your actions and words? How can you make your story more about Jesus and His transformative power? ([31:27])
4. Peter and John boldly proclaimed Jesus despite opposition. Have you ever faced opposition when sharing your faith? How did you handle it, and what can you learn from Peter and John's example? ([44:57])
5. Jesus transforms ordinary people into powerful witnesses. How has your time with Jesus transformed you? Share a specific example of how this transformation has impacted your life and those around you. ([41:16])
6. Identify one person in your life who is far from Jesus. What specific steps can you take this week to share the hope, security, and power of Christ with them? ([46:08])
7. Reflect on the gifts of hope, security, and power mentioned in Ephesians 1:18-20. How can you actively share these gifts with others in your community? ([29:37])
Devotional
Day 1: Intentionality in Mission
Whether on a mission trip or in our daily routines, we are called to live with intentionality, pointing people to Jesus. This mission is not confined to special trips but is a daily calling to share the hope and love of Christ with those around us. The early church in the book of Acts grew because believers were intentional about sharing Christ, and we are called to do the same today. Peter and John exemplify this in Acts 3 and 4, where they heal a man and seize the opportunity to share the gospel, despite their busy schedules and the opposition they faced.
We are reminded that our mission field is not just overseas but right where we are. Every interaction, every conversation, and every moment is an opportunity to reflect Jesus to those around us. This intentionality requires us to be aware and proactive, looking for ways to serve and share the love of Christ in our everyday lives. [25:23]
Acts 3:6-7 (ESV): "But Peter said, 'I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!' And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong."
Reflection: Think about your daily routine. How can you intentionally share the love of Christ with someone today? What specific action can you take to point someone to Jesus?
Day 2: Gifts to Share
We have been given hope, security, and power through Christ. These gifts are not meant to be hoarded but shared with others. The hope of eternal life, the security of a firm foundation in Christ, and the power that raised Jesus from the dead are all things we can offer to those in need. These gifts are transformative and can change lives, just as they have changed ours.
Sharing these gifts requires us to be open and willing to engage with others. It means stepping out of our comfort zones and being vulnerable about our own experiences with Christ. By doing so, we can offer the same hope, security, and power to others that we have received. [29:37]
Ephesians 1:18-19 (ESV): "Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about the hope, security, and power found in Christ? How can you share these gifts with them today?
Day 3: The Story We Tell
Our lives are constantly telling a story. We can choose to tell a story of anxiety and worldly pursuits, or we can tell the story of Jesus and His transformative power. The story of Jesus is one of hope, healing, and eternal life, and it is the story the world needs to hear. Our actions, words, and attitudes all contribute to the story we are telling.
By focusing on Jesus and His work in our lives, we can ensure that our story points others to Him. This requires us to be mindful of how we live and the message we are conveying through our daily actions. [31:27]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: What story is your life currently telling? How can you make sure that your story points others to Jesus and His transformative power?
Day 4: Proclaiming Jesus Boldly
Despite the opposition we may face, we are called to proclaim Jesus boldly. The apostles in Acts couldn't help but speak about what they had seen and heard, and we should have the same urgency. Sharing Jesus is not just about talking about church or a nebulous idea of God; it is about sharing the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Boldly proclaiming Jesus means being unashamed and confident in our faith. It means speaking up even when it is uncomfortable or when we face resistance. Our boldness can inspire others and open doors for the gospel to be shared. [44:57]
Acts 4:20 (ESV): "For we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard."
Reflection: When was the last time you boldly proclaimed Jesus to someone? What is one step you can take today to share Jesus more boldly in your life?
Day 5: Transformation Through Jesus
Jesus transforms ordinary people into powerful witnesses of His grace. The apostles were unschooled, ordinary men, but their time with Jesus transformed them into bold proclaimers of the gospel. This same transformation is available to us as we spend time with Jesus and allow His power to work through us.
Transformation through Jesus is not just about a one-time change but a continual process of growth and renewal. As we spend time in prayer, reading the Word, and seeking His presence, we are continually being transformed into His likeness. [41:16]
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
Reflection: How has Jesus transformed you? What areas of your life still need His transformative power, and how can you seek that transformation today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We as families had an opportunity to go and to serve and point these families towards the ultimate hope that they can find in Jesus Christ. The families come from all over the U.S. for a week in the Panhandle, all over the map spiritually. And so it was a powerful opportunity for us to live out the hope that we have in Christ and to be able to share with these families, some of whom are very far from Jesus, of what Jesus can offer them." [23:51] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Recognizing that God has given us a purpose, and that purpose is to point people to Jesus. If you've been here for a while at church, you've heard us say our ultimate mission is to be disciples who make disciples. That is our calling. Whether we're in India, in the panhandle, whether you're just going to work, or whether you're in your neighborhood, we have that same mission, and God calls us to an intentionality in pointing people to Jesus Christ." [25:23] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The reality is, we are all storytellers. Every one of us. Our lives are telling a story. And for some of us, that story is anxiety, and worry, fear, and obsession with various things of this world. That's a story that we're telling. It's somewhere to watch our lives and our lips, what we're talking about. How would they describe the story that you're telling?" [31:02] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "It should be our desire as well that everyone we interact with might know the hope and the power and the security that only Jesus offers. And so they first proclaim it because of who he is. You can see this in chapter three, verse 14. They describe Jesus as the holy and righteous one. He is holy and righteous. Which means that unlike us, Jesus is perfect. He's the one who the world needs." [32:43] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Salvation is found in no one else. For there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. And the greatest need for all of humanity is salvation. Salvation from death, salvation from sin, salvation from an alienation from God, salvation from judgment and hell. And notice that verse. It's only found. It's found in no one else. There's no other name." [38:53] (4 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so it was powerful to go and to serve and to partner with this organization and those 100 people, people that had traveled all over the country, some that had traveled as far as four days in each direction, to come to this training to more effectively be able to share Jesus Christ. And so it was a wonderful opportunity. And whether in the panhandle or in India, you wake up each morning on those kind of trips with an intentionality." [24:39] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The power of God that they've experienced in their own lives works through them to transform this man's life. And this is the opportunity we have in every relationship as we're going about our days to stop and be able to share Jesus with those that come across our path. And as we do that, we're simply just sharing what God has already worked out of our lives into the lives of others." [28:13] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The reality is, though, it's only in part now. Until Christ comes and makes all things right, the healing is only partial. This man was healed. He could walk. But ultimately, at some point after this, he's going to die. He's not going to experience full healing until later. But God, even now, can work in our lives to bring physical healing. God can do it. Emotional healing, relational healing, financial healing. When we're broken, Jesus can step in and provide healing in our lives." [36:00] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And if you're here this morning and you've never yet acknowledged Jesus as Lord and Savior, today can be the day. You need salvation. You need forgiveness. You need eternal life. And that comes as chapter 4 tells us. It comes through the name of Jesus. Jesus died on the cross in your place. He rose from the dead so you could have forgiveness and life. Surrender everything else that you've trusted in for life and receive Jesus today." [47:13] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus makes the difference in our lives. Jesus makes the difference in others' lives as well. That's the story we're to tell. Every day. We're to wake up with an intentionality, with a purpose. Today is not about my agenda, my schedule. Today is about making Christ known. Telling a better story than what we're currently doing. And inevitably, as we do that, as we proclaim Christ, we'll see lives transform, but we'll also probably face opposition as well." [43:16] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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