Mingling Like Jesus: Embracing Compassion and Connection
Summary
Today, I began a new sermon series titled "The Church That Mingles," focusing on the methods of Jesus and how He interacted with those around Him. This series is designed to challenge and inspire us to follow Christ's example in our daily lives and ministry efforts.
The sermon opened with a reflection on the Gospel of Luke, chapter 15, verses 1 and 2, where tax collectors and sinners drew near to listen to Jesus. This passage highlights the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, contrasting sharply with the Pharisees and scribes who criticized Him for associating with what they considered undesirable company. This sets the stage for our discussion on mingling - a method Jesus used effectively to reach out to those in need.
I shared a touching story about a deacon who regularly visited an old age home with the church's youth group. This narrative illustrated how the deacon became Jesus' hands and feet, providing comfort to an elderly man who eagerly awaited these visits, equating them with holding the hand of Jesus. This story underscored the profound impact personal interactions can have, embodying the spirit of mingling that Jesus modeled.
Throughout the sermon, I emphasized the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones. Just as Jesus did not confine His ministry to comfortable or familiar settings, we too are called to reach beyond our comfort zones to engage with those who are different from us. This approach is not just about physical relocation but also about a willingness to engage empathetically and openly with others.
Another key point was the necessity of compromise in methods, not in message, to effectively minister to diverse groups. This was illustrated through the story of the woman caught in adultery, where Jesus chose a compassionate response over the legalistic harshness expected by the Pharisees. Here, Jesus compromised on the method by choosing forgiveness over condemnation, which is a powerful lesson for us today.
I also addressed the pitfalls of traditionalism within the church, pointing out that sometimes, our traditions can hinder rather than help our mission. It's crucial that we distinguish between biblical mandates and cultural or traditional practices that may not serve our mission of evangelism and service.
As we wrapped up, I made a heartfelt appeal for commitment to mingling, urging everyone to embody the methods of Jesus in their daily interactions. This call to action is about more than just attending church; it's about being active participants in the ministry of Christ, reaching out to those in need, and making a tangible difference in the world.
Key Takeaways:
1. Embracing Discomfort for Growth - Stepping out of our comfort zones is essential for spiritual growth and effective ministry. Jesus Himself left the comforts of divinity to engage humanity directly, showing us that true ministry happens not in comfort, but in the challenge. [28:31]
2. Compromise in Methods, Not Message - In our efforts to reach others, we must be flexible in our methods while remaining steadfast in our message. The story of the woman caught in adultery illustrates how Jesus prioritized compassion over condemnation without compromising the truth of the Gospel. [33:06]
3. The Power of Personal Interaction - The story of the deacon and the elderly man reminds us that personal interactions can have eternal implications. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, touching lives in profound ways through simple acts of kindness. [08:06]
4. Challenging Traditionalism - It's important to evaluate whether our traditions serve the mission of Christ or hinder it. Effective ministry often requires us to break free from unnecessary traditions to focus on what truly matters—sharing the love of Christ. [35:52]
5. Active Participation in Ministry - We are all called to be active participants in the ministry of Christ, not just passive attendees of church services. This involves mingling with others, sharing our faith, and living out the Gospel in tangible ways. [52:54]
Chapters:
0:00 - Welcome
03:53 - Introduction to the Sermon Series
05:43 - Reading from Luke 15
08:06 - Story of the Deacon and the Elderly Man
09:54 - Definitions of Methods
14:54 - Importance of Following All Methods
19:48 - Jesus' Interaction with Sinners
28:31 - Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
33:06 - Compromising Methods for Effective Ministry
35:52 - Addressing Traditionalism in Church
52:54 - Call to Active Ministry Participation
55:48 - Closing Worship and Appeals
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: "The Church That Mingles"
#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 15:1-2 (NIV)
> Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
2. Matthew 9:35-36 (NIV)
> Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
3. John 1:14 (NIV)
> The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the reaction of the Pharisees and scribes to Jesus mingling with tax collectors and sinners in Luke 15:1-2? ([05:43])
2. According to Matthew 9:35-36, what activities did Jesus engage in as He traveled through towns and villages? ([11:35])
3. How does John 1:14 describe the incarnation of Jesus and His interaction with humanity? ([16:33])
4. What story did the pastor share about the deacon and the elderly man, and what was its significance? ([08:06])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the Pharisees and scribes were so critical of Jesus' choice to associate with sinners? How does this reflect on their understanding of ministry? ([19:16])
2. In what ways did Jesus' compassion for the crowds in Matthew 9:35-36 demonstrate His method of ministry? How can this be applied to our own ministry efforts? ([11:35])
3. How does the incarnation of Jesus, as described in John 1:14, serve as a model for how we should engage with others? ([16:33])
4. The pastor emphasized the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones. Why is this necessary for effective ministry, and what challenges might we face in doing so? ([28:31])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt uncomfortable reaching out to someone different from you. What steps can you take to overcome this discomfort in the future? ([28:31])
2. The pastor mentioned the need to compromise in methods but not in the message. Can you think of a situation where you might need to adjust your approach to effectively share the Gospel? ([33:06])
3. How can you incorporate personal interactions into your daily routine to make a tangible difference in someone's life, similar to the deacon's visits to the old age home? ([08:06])
4. Evaluate some of the traditions in your church or personal life. Are there any that might be hindering your mission to share Christ's love? How can you address these? ([35:52])
5. The pastor called for active participation in ministry. Identify one specific way you can be more involved in your church's outreach efforts this week. ([52:54])
6. Think about someone in your life who might feel marginalized or overlooked. What practical steps can you take to reach out to them and show Christ's love? ([20:49])
7. How can you ensure that your evangelism efforts are outward-focused rather than just within the church community? What changes might you need to make to achieve this? ([40:09])
Devotional
Day 1: Embrace Discomfort to Foster Growth
Stepping out of our comfort zones is not merely a challenge; it's a necessity for spiritual growth and effective ministry. Just as Jesus left the divine comforts to engage directly with humanity, we too are called to leave behind our familiar surroundings and engage with those who may be different from us. This act of stepping out is not just about changing locations but about changing hearts and minds. By embracing discomfort, we learn to rely more on God's strength and less on our own understanding. This is where true growth and ministry begin. [28:31]
"Then I will go to the altar of God, to God my exceeding joy, and I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God." - Psalm 43:4 ESV
Reflection: What is one specific situation or relationship where you feel God is calling you to step out of your comfort zone this week?
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Day 2: Flexibility in Approach, Firmness in Belief
In our mission to reach others, it's crucial to adapt our methods without compromising our core message. The story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery exemplifies this beautifully. Jesus showed compassion and offered forgiveness where others might have chosen condemnation, thus maintaining the integrity of His message while adapting His approach to the needs of the moment. This teaches us that our interactions should be characterized by grace and truth, tailored to encourage repentance and restoration rather than judgment. [33:06]
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness." - 2 Timothy 2:24-25 ESV
Reflection: How can you modify your approach in a current disagreement to reflect both truth and grace?
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Day 3: The Transformative Power of Personal Connections
Personal interactions can leave a lasting impact on both the giver and the receiver. The story of the deacon visiting the elderly man illustrates how simple acts of kindness can embody the love and compassion of Jesus. These moments of connection are not just acts of service; they are sacred encounters where we can minister to others and also see Christ in them. By being present and genuinely engaging with others, we fulfill a vital part of our calling. [08:06]
"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." - Philippians 2:4 ESV
Reflection: Who in your community needs a personal touch from you, and what simple act of kindness can you offer this week?
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Day 4: Questioning Tradition to Better Serve Christ's Mission
It's essential to discern which traditions uphold the gospel's truth and which ones hinder our mission. Sometimes, what we consider sacred traditions may only be comfortable routines that prevent us from fully embracing the mission Christ has for us. By critically evaluating our practices through the lens of Christ's teachings, we can ensure that our actions align with our mission to spread His love and truth. [35:52]
"Thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do." - Mark 7:13 ESV
Reflection: What is one tradition in your life or church that might be hindering more than helping, and how can you address it?
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Day 5: Active Participation in the Ministry of Christ
Being a follower of Christ means more than just attending church services; it involves active engagement in ministry and outreach. We are all called to be participants in the work of the Gospel, mingling with others, sharing our faith, and living out the teachings of Jesus in tangible ways. This active participation is what truly defines us as members of the body of Christ, working together to fulfill His great commission. [52:54]
"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: What is one way you can move from passive attendance to active participation in your church community this week?
Quotes
"If we are going to mingle, we must be willing to come out of our comfort zone and not be afraid to do so. God is in the business of putting you out of your comfort zone. It's God's job to disturb the comfortable. He wants you to come out of your comfort zones, because in your comfort zone, you're used to doing this this way." [28:31]
"If we're going to mingle, we must be willing to compromise. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9.22, to the weak, I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people, so that by all possible means I might save some. You ain't going to save everybody, but you're going to save some." [31:03]
"The woman who was caught in adultery, but driver, the law said that she should be stoned to death. That's what the law said, right? That she should be stoned to death, right? The Bible says when they brought this woman to Jesus, Jesus said, And the Bible says that Jesus began to write on the ground." [33:06]
"Some stuff that we have issues with in the church. Some of the stuff that y'all have issues in the church, it ain't even biblical. It's traditional stuff. It ain't nowhere in the word. But we got to have a board meeting about it." [35:52]
"Here's my prayer for you today my prayer is very simple prayer commitment today if you want to say church pastor I want to commit myself of mingling with people not just mingling with people who have the same faith as us but mingling with people on your job mingling with people in your neighborhood just having a nice conversation with them." [52:54]
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