Stepping into Faith: Embracing Change and Hope

 

Summary

In this final gathering, I reflect on the journey of the past 16 years, filled with moments of growth, mistakes, and profound experiences. It's a bittersweet moment as I prepare to step into the unknown, feeling called to serve in Los Angeles, particularly in the inner city where the need is great. This transition is not just about moving locations but about trusting God's plan and stepping out in faith. I express deep gratitude for the unwavering support and grace shown by the congregation, likening it to the unconditional love within a family. This grace has allowed me to grow and mature, and I urge the same support for Todd and the elders who will continue the mission here.

The core of our journey has always been rooted in the unwavering belief in the Bible as the ultimate truth. As I read from Revelation 21, I emphasize the eternal hope we have in Christ—a future where God will dwell with us, wiping away every tear and making all things new. This hope compels us to live fearlessly, knowing that there will be no cowards in heaven. We are called to stand firm in our faith, to confess Jesus boldly, and to live in a way that reflects our belief in His promises.

As I prepare to leave, my heart is heavy with the thought of those who have not yet fully surrendered to Christ. The reality of eternal separation from God is far more tragic than any earthly goodbye. I urge those who have been holding back to take this moment to truly commit to Jesus, to let go of anything that holds them back, and to embrace the life He offers. Baptism is a powerful symbol of this commitment, a declaration that Jesus is worth more than anything this world can offer.

Key Takeaways:

- Embrace Change with Faith: As we face transitions, whether personal or communal, it's essential to trust in God's plan. Stepping into the unknown requires faith, especially when called to serve in challenging environments like the inner city. This faith is not blind but rooted in the assurance that God is leading us to where we are most needed. [01:58]

- The Power of Grace and Community: Over the years, the grace and support from the community have been invaluable. This grace mirrors the unconditional love within a family, allowing for growth and forgiveness. As we move forward, it's crucial to extend this same grace to new leaders, fostering an environment of support and encouragement. [09:19]

- The Unchanging Truth of Scripture: The Bible remains the foundation of our faith, a constant in a world that often mocks or dismisses it. Holding onto its truths is vital, as it guides us through life's challenges and assures us of God's promises. This commitment to Scripture is what transforms lives and communities. [11:28]

- Living with Eternal Perspective: Revelation 21 offers a glimpse of the future God has promised—a time without pain or sorrow. This hope should shape how we live today, encouraging us to prioritize eternal values over temporary comforts. It's a call to live fearlessly, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. [13:11]

- The Call to Bold Confession: There will be no cowards in heaven. Our faith requires us to boldly confess Jesus, even when it's uncomfortable or risky. This confession is not just verbal but lived out in our actions and choices, demonstrating that we truly believe in the power and authority of Christ. [20:00]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:17] - Reflections on the Journey
- [01:40] - Stepping into the Unknown
- [02:46] - Gratitude and Goodbyes
- [03:18] - Lessons from the Past
- [04:33] - The Importance of Honor
- [05:35] - Community and Support
- [06:59] - The Bond of Leadership
- [08:31] - The Reality of Change
- [10:46] - The Unchanging Word
- [13:11] - A New Heaven and Earth
- [16:03] - Living with Eternal Perspective
- [19:00] - No Cowards in Heaven
- [21:31] - Bold Confession
- [23:21] - The Urgency of Eternity

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Revelation 21:1-8

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Observation Questions:

1. What emotions does the pastor express about his transition and the journey of the past 16 years? How does he describe the support from the congregation? [03:18]

2. In Revelation 21, what are the key elements of the future hope described? How does this passage depict the new heaven and new earth? [13:11]

3. What does the pastor identify as the core belief that has guided the church's journey over the years? [11:28]

4. How does the pastor describe the role of grace and community in his personal growth and the church's development? [09:19]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the pastor's decision to move to Los Angeles reflect the theme of "Embrace Change with Faith"? What does this suggest about the nature of faith in times of transition? [01:58]

2. What does the pastor mean when he says, "There will be no cowards in heaven"? How does this statement challenge the congregation's understanding of faith and courage? [20:00]

3. How does the pastor's emphasis on the "Unchanging Truth of Scripture" influence the church's mission and individual lives? What challenges might arise from holding onto these truths in today's world? [11:28]

4. In what ways does the pastor urge the congregation to live with an "Eternal Perspective"? How might this perspective alter daily decisions and priorities? [13:11]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant change. How did your faith influence your response to that change? How can you apply this experience to future transitions? [01:58]

2. The pastor speaks about the power of grace and community. How can you actively contribute to a supportive and forgiving community within your church or small group? [09:19]

3. Consider the pastor's call to boldly confess Jesus. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate your faith in your daily life, even when it might be uncomfortable or risky? [20:00]

4. How does the vision of a new heaven and new earth in Revelation 21 inspire you to live differently today? What specific changes can you make to align your life with this eternal hope? [13:11]

5. The pastor expresses concern for those who have not fully surrendered to Christ. Is there an area in your life where you feel hesitant to fully commit to Jesus? What steps can you take to overcome this hesitation? [23:21]

6. Reflect on the pastor's gratitude for the congregation's support. How can you show appreciation and support for your church leaders and fellow members in tangible ways? [03:18]

7. The pastor mentions the importance of baptism as a declaration of faith. If you have been baptized, how does this commitment continue to shape your life? If not, what might be holding you back from taking this step? [27:36]

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting God's Plan in Uncertainty
In times of transition, it is natural to feel apprehensive about the unknown. However, embracing change with faith means trusting that God has a purpose for every step we take. This faith is not blind but is rooted in the assurance that God is leading us to where we are most needed. Whether it is a personal change or a communal shift, stepping into the unknown requires courage and a deep trust in God's plan. As we face these transitions, we are reminded that God is with us, guiding us through every challenge and opportunity. [01:58]

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are facing uncertainty? How can you actively trust God with this situation today?


Day 2: The Transformative Power of Grace
Grace is a powerful force that mirrors the unconditional love found within a family. It allows for growth, forgiveness, and maturity. Over the years, the grace and support from a community can be invaluable, providing a safe space for individuals to learn from their mistakes and become better versions of themselves. As we move forward, it is crucial to extend this same grace to new leaders and members, fostering an environment of support and encouragement. This grace is not just a passive acceptance but an active choice to love and support one another through all circumstances. [09:19]

"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8, ESV)

Reflection: Who in your community needs your grace and support today? How can you show them unconditional love in a practical way?


Day 3: Holding Firm to the Truth of Scripture
In a world that often mocks or dismisses the Bible, holding onto its truths is vital. The Bible remains the foundation of our faith, guiding us through life's challenges and assuring us of God's promises. This commitment to Scripture is what transforms lives and communities, providing a constant in an ever-changing world. By immersing ourselves in the Word, we find the strength and wisdom needed to navigate the complexities of life. It is through Scripture that we understand God's character and His plans for us, allowing us to live in alignment with His will. [11:28]

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16, ESV)

Reflection: How can you incorporate more Scripture into your daily routine? What specific steps will you take to deepen your understanding of God's Word?


Day 4: Living with an Eternal Perspective
Revelation 21 offers a glimpse of the future God has promised—a time without pain or sorrow. This eternal hope should shape how we live today, encouraging us to prioritize eternal values over temporary comforts. By living with an eternal perspective, we are called to focus on what truly matters, aligning our lives with God's purposes. This perspective allows us to live fearlessly, knowing that our ultimate home is with God. It challenges us to evaluate our priorities and make choices that reflect our belief in the promises of Christ. [13:11]

"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day." (2 Corinthians 4:16, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are prioritizing temporary comforts over eternal values? How can you shift your focus to align with God's eternal perspective?


Day 5: Boldly Confessing Faith in Christ
Our faith requires us to boldly confess Jesus, even when it is uncomfortable or risky. This confession is not just verbal but is lived out in our actions and choices, demonstrating that we truly believe in the power and authority of Christ. There will be no cowards in heaven, and we are called to stand firm in our faith, living in a way that reflects our belief in His promises. By boldly confessing our faith, we become witnesses to the transformative power of Christ, inspiring others to seek Him and experience His love. [20:00]

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." (Romans 1:16, ESV)

Reflection: In what situation do you find it most challenging to confess your faith? How can you take a step of boldness today to share your belief in Christ with someone?

Quotes


I think there's work to be done today before I go. I think there's some things that need to be said that I'm excited to share once again, um, of some things that the Lord has placed on my heart. Um, real quickly, we don't know where we're going still, um, yet feel very confident the Lord is calling us to take a step of faith. [00:01:33]

I say thank you because I've done some really dumb things over the last 16 years. I mean really dumb, um, things that uh just humans don't do, um, you know much less pastors. You know, remember the BB gun thing? That was like one of my ultimate dumb ones, um, but just I'm just looking through the years and going man what was I thinking there. [00:03:38]

There's an interesting passage in Ephesians 6 when it talks about the kids and it says you know honor your parents. First it talks about obeying them but he says honor them because that command comes with a promise. He says you honor your parents and it's going to go well with you. It's going to be good. [00:04:40]

I bring that all up because I'm just begging you the grace that you've shown me and my family I'm asking you to do the same thing for Todd and for the elders here. Um, it's a process. It's going to be a process. I believe great things are going to happen under his leadership. I also think he's going to screw up because we all do. [00:09:10]

This book, everything this book says, everything, everything this book says you got to follow it. Guys, people like me were going to come and go but this book you can't let it go. You got to trust the words of this book. Okay, this has done me right for the last 30 years. Every time I follow this book, every time I obey its words it works out. [00:10:41]

Revelation 21: Then I saw a new Heaven and a new Earth for the first Heaven and the first Earth had passed away and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city New Jerusalem coming down out of Heaven from God prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying Behold The Dwelling Place of God is with man. [00:13:11]

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and Death Shall be no more neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain anymore for the former things have passed away. And he who was Seated on the throne said behold I am making all things new also he said write this down for these words are trustworthy and true. [00:13:45]

There will be no cowards in heaven. I heard that over and over this week. There will be no cowards in heaven. Doesn't mean we don't get scared every once in a while but that's not the spirit he put in us. He doesn't allow us to be cowards. That's why like I shared last week when I heard about the inner city and I thought oh I'm scared. [00:19:05]

The one who conquers, the one who overcomes, he says I'll be his God he'll be my son. See the strong ones, the ones that conquer those fears, the ones that conquer their temptations, that conquer their doubts, he says those are my children. But then the first thing he says in verse 8 he goes but as for the Cowardly. [00:19:37]

If you will stand up and confess me before men, if you'll speak up for me like I'm doing right now to tell you look Jesus Christ really is the Son of God. He really did come down on this Earth take the form of a man die on a cross to pay for all your sins of which you are guilty of. [00:20:36]

I think man even if there's one person in this room who if you were to die today and you have never confessed Jesus you have never really lived for him then you are going to spend an eternity apart from God and I just began dwelling on that cuz I can't imagine that. I can't imagine being apart from God forever. [00:23:32]

At some point in your life you've got to believe that he is more valuable than all of that, that he's worth it. And he says because you know it's the Liars he says the Liars they're the ones that are in this room some of you are in this room where you've got us all fooled, congratulations you know you seem like a Christian to us. [00:25:10]

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Transcript
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