Pentecost: Embracing Our Global Mission in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we delve into the profound significance of Pentecost and its implications for our lives. Pentecost is not just an ancient festival; it marks the birth of a new way of living, a new creation launched through Jesus' death and resurrection. This new creation is characterized by a radical shift in allegiances and a common way of being in the world. At Pentecost, the disciples witnessed Jesus' enthronement as King over all creation, and they were called to join in ushering in His kingdom, starting from Jerusalem and extending to the ends of the earth ([03:31]).
The scene at Pentecost is a powerful one. The disciples, gathered in Jerusalem, experienced a rushing wind and tongues of fire, symbolizing God's presence. This event fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies about God's Spirit dwelling within His people, making them the new temple. The disciples began speaking in various languages, understood by the diverse crowd, signifying the unification of different tribes and cultures under Jesus ([05:12]). This moment undid the division of Babel, creating a new humanity united in Christ ([08:15]).
As we reflect on this, we see the early church's radical approach to life. They formed new families, sold their possessions to help the poor, and lived as if Jesus was the true King of the world. Their mission was not just local but global, encompassing the lost, the social, the cultural, and the global. This outward direction is crucial for us today as we consider our role in God's mission ([09:57]).
On this anniversary Sunday, instead of focusing on our immediate community, we turn our attention to the nations. We are called to care about global issues, but this can often lead to fatigue. The gap between our sphere of concern and our sphere of influence can be overwhelming. However, the Bible offers a practical starting point: caring for the most vulnerable. James 1:26-27 emphasizes the importance of genuine religion, which involves caring for orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself from being corrupted by the world ([14:43]).
The story of the Good Samaritan illustrates this beautifully. Jesus teaches that our neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of their background. This challenges us to see every person as an image bearer of God and to act with compassion and mercy ([20:48]). This principle is echoed in the Jewish teaching that saving one life is like saving an entire world. We are called to do for one what we wish we could do for everyone ([24:08]).
Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall a trip to El Salvador with World Vision, where I witnessed deep poverty and violence. This led my family to sponsor a child, Zepeda, through Compassion International. Sponsoring a child is a tangible way to make a difference, lifting them out of poverty and into their potential. Compassion International works through local churches to provide holistic care, significantly increasing the chances of these children finishing high school and going to college ([25:33]).
Today, I invite you to join in this mission. Each packet you received represents a real child in need. By sponsoring a child, you can make a profound impact on their life and contribute to the renewal of all things. This is not just about charity; it's about aligning our hearts with God's mission and making a tangible difference in the world. Let's take this opportunity to follow Jesus in caring for the least and the last, lifting them out of poverty and into their God-given potential ([38:27]).
### Key Takeaways
1. Pentecost and the New Creation: Pentecost marks the birth of a new creation through Jesus' death and resurrection. This new way of living involves a radical shift in allegiances and a common way of being in the world. The disciples witnessed Jesus' enthronement as King and were called to join in ushering in His kingdom, starting from Jerusalem and extending globally. This event signifies the unification of different tribes and cultures under Jesus, creating a new humanity. [03:31]
2. The Early Church's Radical Life: The early church formed new families, sold their possessions to help the poor, and lived as if Jesus was the true King of the world. Their mission was not just local but global, encompassing the lost, the social, the cultural, and the global. This outward direction is crucial for us today as we consider our role in God's mission. [09:57]
3. Caring for the Most Vulnerable: The Bible offers a practical starting point for addressing global issues: caring for the most vulnerable. James 1:26-27 emphasizes the importance of genuine religion, which involves caring for orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself from being corrupted by the world. This is a call to action for us to focus on those in immediate need. [14:43]
4. The Good Samaritan and Our Neighbor: The story of the Good Samaritan teaches that our neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of their background. This challenges us to see every person as an image bearer of God and to act with compassion and mercy. We are called to do for one what we wish we could do for everyone, embodying the love and justice of Jesus. [20:48]
5. Sponsoring a Child through Compassion International: Sponsoring a child is a tangible way to make a difference, lifting them out of poverty and into their potential. Compassion International works through local churches to provide holistic care, significantly increasing the chances of these children finishing high school and going to college. This is an opportunity to align our hearts with God's mission and make a tangible difference in the world. [25:33]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [03:31] - Pentecost and the New Creation
3. [05:12] - The Scene at Pentecost
4. [08:15] - Unification of Tribes and Cultures
5. [09:57] - The Early Church's Radical Life
6. [14:43] - Caring for the Most Vulnerable
7. [20:48] - The Good Samaritan and Our Neighbor
8. [24:08] - Jewish Teaching on Saving Lives
9. [25:33] - Sponsoring a Child through Compassion International
10. [38:27] - Invitation to Join the Mission
11. [45:06] - Filling Out Sponsorship Packets
12. [46:32] - Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV)
> "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."
2. James 1:26-27 (NIV)
> "Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
3. Luke 10:25-37 (NIV)
> "On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. 'Teacher,' he asked, 'what must I do to inherit eternal life?' 'What is written in the Law?' he replied. 'How do you read it?' He answered, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 'You have answered correctly,' Jesus replied. 'Do this and you will live.' But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, 'And who is my neighbor?' In reply Jesus said: 'A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. "Look after him," he said, "and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have." Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?' The expert in the law replied, 'The one who had mercy on him.' Jesus told him, 'Go and do likewise.'"
### Observation Questions
1. What significant event took place on the day of Pentecost according to Acts 2:1-4?
2. In James 1:26-27, what does James describe as "pure and faultless" religion?
3. According to the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37, who does Jesus identify as the true neighbor?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the event of Pentecost in Acts 2:1-4 symbolize the unification of different tribes and cultures under Jesus? ([08:15])
2. What does James 1:26-27 suggest about the relationship between faith and action, particularly in caring for the most vulnerable? ([14:43])
3. How does the story of the Good Samaritan challenge our understanding of who our neighbor is and how we should treat them? ([20:48])
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on the early church's radical life, how can we form new "families" within our church community to support each other and those in need? ([09:57])
2. Considering the call to care for the most vulnerable, what practical steps can you take this week to help orphans, widows, or others in distress in your community? ([14:43])
3. How can the story of the Good Samaritan inspire you to act with compassion and mercy towards someone in need this week, regardless of their background? ([20:48])
4. Sponsoring a child through Compassion International was highlighted as a tangible way to make a difference. What are some other ways you can align your resources with God's mission to help the vulnerable? ([25:33])
5. The sermon mentioned the fatigue that can come from caring about global issues. How can you balance your concern for global issues with practical actions within your sphere of influence? ([14:43])
6. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by the needs around you. How can focusing on helping one person at a time, as suggested by the Jewish teaching and Andy Stanley's advice, change your approach to service? ([24:08])
7. How can you involve your family or small group in a collective effort to support a cause or individual in need, similar to the pastor's experience with sponsoring a child? ([25:33])
Devotional
Day 1: Pentecost and the New Creation
Pentecost marks the birth of a new creation through Jesus' death and resurrection. This new way of living involves a radical shift in allegiances and a common way of being in the world. At Pentecost, the disciples witnessed Jesus' enthronement as King over all creation, and they were called to join in ushering in His kingdom, starting from Jerusalem and extending to the ends of the earth. This event signifies the unification of different tribes and cultures under Jesus, creating a new humanity. The scene at Pentecost, with the rushing wind and tongues of fire, symbolizes God's presence and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about God's Spirit dwelling within His people, making them the new temple. The disciples began speaking in various languages, understood by the diverse crowd, signifying the unification of different tribes and cultures under Jesus. This moment undid the division of Babel, creating a new humanity united in Christ. [03:31]
Acts 2:1-4 (ESV): "When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Reflection: How can you embrace the new creation that Pentecost represents in your daily life? What steps can you take to live out this radical shift in allegiances and unity in Christ?
Day 2: The Early Church's Radical Life
The early church formed new families, sold their possessions to help the poor, and lived as if Jesus was the true King of the world. Their mission was not just local but global, encompassing the lost, the social, the cultural, and the global. This outward direction is crucial for us today as we consider our role in God's mission. The early Christians' radical approach to life was characterized by a deep sense of community and sacrificial love. They shared their resources, supported one another, and prioritized the needs of the vulnerable. This way of living was a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the gospel and the reality of Jesus' kingship. As modern believers, we are called to embody this same radical love and commitment to God's mission, extending our care and compassion beyond our immediate circles to the broader world. [09:57]
Acts 4:32-35 (ESV): "Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need."
Reflection: In what ways can you practice radical generosity and community in your own life? How can you contribute to God's global mission with the resources and opportunities you have?
Day 3: Caring for the Most Vulnerable
The Bible offers a practical starting point for addressing global issues: caring for the most vulnerable. James 1:26-27 emphasizes the importance of genuine religion, which involves caring for orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself from being corrupted by the world. This is a call to action for us to focus on those in immediate need. Genuine religion is not just about personal piety but about active compassion and justice. By caring for the most vulnerable, we reflect God's heart and participate in His mission to restore and renew all things. This practical approach helps bridge the gap between our sphere of concern and our sphere of influence, allowing us to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are often overlooked and marginalized. [14:43]
James 1:26-27 (ESV): "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
Reflection: Who are the most vulnerable people in your community, and how can you actively care for them? What steps can you take today to show God's love and compassion to those in need?
Day 4: The Good Samaritan and Our Neighbor
The story of the Good Samaritan teaches that our neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of their background. This challenges us to see every person as an image bearer of God and to act with compassion and mercy. We are called to do for one what we wish we could do for everyone, embodying the love and justice of Jesus. This principle is echoed in the Jewish teaching that saving one life is like saving an entire world. The parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates the radical nature of Jesus' command to love our neighbors. It calls us to cross cultural and social boundaries, to show mercy and kindness to those who are different from us, and to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person. By doing so, we participate in God's redemptive work and reflect His character to the world. [20:48]
Luke 10:33-37 (ESV): "But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.' Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?" He said, "The one who showed him mercy." And Jesus said to him, "You go, and do likewise."
Reflection: Who is a "neighbor" in your life that you might be overlooking? How can you show them compassion and mercy today, regardless of their background or circumstances?
Day 5: Sponsoring a Child through Compassion International
Sponsoring a child is a tangible way to make a difference, lifting them out of poverty and into their potential. Compassion International works through local churches to provide holistic care, significantly increasing the chances of these children finishing high school and going to college. This is an opportunity to align our hearts with God's mission and make a tangible difference in the world. By sponsoring a child, we participate in God's redemptive work, offering hope and a future to those who are often trapped in cycles of poverty and despair. This act of love and generosity not only transforms the life of the child but also impacts their family and community, contributing to the renewal of all things. [25:33]
Proverbs 31:8-9 (ESV): "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy."
Reflection: Consider the impact of sponsoring a child through Compassion International. How can you take a step today to support a child in need and contribute to their future potential? What sacrifices can you make to align your heart with God's mission of justice and compassion?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "James 1 26 says that if you claim to be religious, but you don't control what you post on social media, you're fooling yourself and your religion's worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." [18:04]
2. "The answer is who's ever in front of you who's in need. That's who. That's who your neighbor is. Person had their clothes taken from them. You can't tell which religious or ethnic community they're a part of. This person is unconscious, can't speak, so you can't hear the accent to give you any details of where this person's from, right? How bad was he beaten up, covered in blood? You can't tell what community they're a part of. It's just an image bearer." [22:32]
3. "Do for one what you wish you could do for everyone. Save a life. Save the whole world. Start with the most vulnerable." [25:33]
4. "You can't do everything, but you can do something. I asked Guy at Compassion if he would, if he wanted us to focus in on one particular region. And the places where we've done work in the past, building medical clinics in Congo and things like that, there wasn't any immediate work there that made sense for us for this timing. And so I said, well, then would you just give us the folks that have been waiting? Give us the kids that have been waiting, the longest." [40:43]
### Quotes for Members
1. "And this in so many ways is what's happening at Pentecost. And this also is this coming together of these two temples. You've got the temple that Herod had built in Jerusalem where Jesus' disciples had worshiped like the rest of the Israelites. But now there's also Jesus' temple, which consists of people. We are called the temple. The temple is meeting together in homes all over Jerusalem. And they're approaching life in a radical new way in the book of Acts." [09:57]
2. "Their allegiance now to Jesus as king bonded tribe, different tribes and different tongues and different cultures together. And of all the things they were doing, caring for one another, providing for one another, worshiping together, listening to God together, they were on mission together." [09:57]
3. "The gospel actually has gone out to the nations. And in fact, in places where you might have a harder time identifying where the local church is because it's persecuted, it's in those places right now, statistically, that the church is exploding. Exploding. There is something beautiful about knowing that not only are we matching breath as we sing about the goodness of God here this morning, but if we could lock everybody into the same time zone, there are millions around the world singing of that same goodness." [08:15]
4. "When Christians get power and money, there have been absolutely moments where it has gaffed things up. Jesus literally warns about this, our leader. It's really hard to enter the kingdom of God. It's really hard to enter the kingdom of God when there's money and power involved. But when we've done that and stewarded that well for the most part, the reason why the most generous group in the United States of America is evangelical Christians." [29:51]
5. "To give without sacrifice, we read, is to walk the way of death. To give without sacrifice is the way of the world that cannot abide in the church. And so I just ask you, would you be willing to step up and lift the kid out of poverty today and partner with him?" [45:06]
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