Shaping Our Legacy: Faith, Transformation, and Impact
Summary
In my sermon, I discussed the concept of legacy, particularly in the context of our church's 150-year history. I emphasized that everyone listening to the sermon is part of the legacy of the church, a legacy built by those who have faithfully served, loved others, and followed God's call obediently. I shared my personal experience of how my call to ministry was nurtured in this church, and how I was supported by the congregation. I also touched on the mixed nature of legacies, using my father's struggle with alcoholism as an example. Despite the challenges, I highlighted how God can transform any bad legacy, as evidenced by my father's surrender to Jesus and his subsequent sobriety.
In the second part of the sermon, I focused on the legacy we leave behind. I shared the story of Suzanne, a woman who left a legacy of generosity and love, despite her tragic death during childbirth. I also delved into the scripture, 2 Timothy 1:1-7, where Paul reminds Timothy of the powerful legacy of faith he received from his grandmother and mother. I emphasized the importance of living out faith in real time and real ways, and how this sets a powerful example for others. I concluded by encouraging everyone to consider the legacy they are part of and the legacy they will leave behind.
Key Takeaways:
1. Everyone is part of a legacy, and we all have a role to play in shaping that legacy. ([01:38
2. God can transform any bad legacy, turning our struggles and failures into testimonies of His grace and power. ([21:34
3. The legacy we leave behind is a reflection of God's work in our lives. It's His power at work in us that truly matters. ([22:14
4. Living out our faith in real time and real ways sets a powerful example for others and contributes to the legacy of faith. ([07:54
5. We should always remember and honor the legacy we are part of, and strive to leave a legacy that glorifies God. ([08:27
Study Guide
Bible Reading:
1) 2 Timothy 1:6 - [10:59
Observation Questions:
1) What does it mean to "fan into flame the gift of God" as mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:6?
2) How does the passage suggest that Timothy received his faith?
Interpretation Questions:
1) How does the concept of stewardship relate to the "gift of God" mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:6?
2) What might be the implications of not fanning into flame the gift of God?
Application Questions:
1) Who in your life has passed on the legacy of faith to you, similar to how Timothy received his faith?
2) How are you currently stewarding the gift of God in your life?
3) Can you identify a specific way you can "fan into flame" your faith this week?
4) How can you pass on the legacy of faith you've received to someone else in your life?
5) What are some obstacles that might prevent you from fanning into flame the gift of God, and how can you overcome them?
Quotes
1. "The legacy that you're building is the person that you're becoming. It's the thing you'll be remembered for, that you will have to offer others. What we do for ourselves usually dies with us, what we do for others will outlast us. Do you want to be remembered for stuff or stories?" - 15:06
2. "Who can you invest in? Who can you pour into? Some of you, especially if you're in the more mature category, have a critically important role to play. That is to pass on your wisdom and your experience and your presence. You have been through some things and seen some things, and you've kept the faith. This is so valuable to all of us because we will all pass through hard things." - 17:02
3. "After years of walking with Jesus, mature believers can hold our hands and say with utter confidence, 'It's going to be okay. Don't give up. God is good, he is faithful. Just keep trusting and leaning into his power. Follow his teaching. It will be hard, but you're not alone. Keep going, we'll do this together.' That's a gift that you can give." - 18:15
4. "Imagine what God could do in us and through our church family if we lived that kind of legacy. Imagine what people might say about this community of faith if we're all pouring into others and sharing the reason for our hope in real and tangible ways, one person at a time, one story at a time, one day at a time." - 24:35
5. "We only have so many days on this Earth to follow our calling and live into our purpose. The days are precious and every day we're leaving a little bit of a legacy. We have the opportunity to make it something significant, to be a part of God's good work in the world." - 04:03
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