Transformative Faith: Embracing Community and God's Call
Summary
As I reflect on my journey with Granville Chapel, I am filled with gratitude for the ways God has woven my story into the fabric of this community. My own faith began with a profound sense of lostness, only to be transformed by an encounter with the living God—a moment that reoriented my life and set me on a path of discipleship. From the very beginning, I experienced the power of community, as I was welcomed, prayed for, and immediately invited to participate in the life of the church. This spirit of inclusion and encouragement has been a defining mark of Granville Chapel, shaping not only my journey but the journeys of so many others.
Throughout my years here, I have witnessed the beauty of a church that is not content to simply grow at the center, but is committed to extending its reach, multiplying its impact, and empowering its people. The stories of Granville’s past—its passion for young people, care for refugees, and creative neighborhood initiatives—are treasures that reveal a deep DNA of generosity, compassion, and humility. These values have been embodied by leaders like Andy, whose partnership and friendship I deeply cherish. His generosity with time and resources, his compassion for those in need, and his humility in making room for others have set a tone for leadership that is about building platforms for others to thrive.
One of the greatest joys has been discovering and fanning into flame the gifts and passions that God has distributed throughout this body. The most significant initiatives have often bubbled up from within the community, not from the staff or leadership, but from people responding to God’s prompting. Whether it’s community houses, neighborhood outreach, or the perseverance seen in marathon runners and Ironman trainees, there is a simplicity and intentionality to the way faith is lived out here—a “long obedience in the same direction,” as Eugene Peterson puts it.
As we celebrate milestones and remember God’s faithfulness, we are reminded that the journey is not over. Like the Israelites crossing the Jordan and setting up stones of remembrance, we mark these moments not to glorify ourselves, but to point to a God who has faithfully led, protected, and blessed us. The call is to keep moving forward, to seek God for what’s next, and to ensure that our lives and our church serve to bless and encourage the generations to come. The legacy we leave is not in our achievements, but in our abiding in Christ, trusting Him, and telling the stories of His faithfulness so that all who follow will know that He is always good.
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Key Takeaways
- Encountering God Transforms Our Trajectory
True faith often begins not with understanding, but with a deep sense of need and a willingness to seek God. When we encounter the living God, everything changes—not just our beliefs, but the very orientation of our lives. This transformation is not a one-time event, but the start of a lifelong journey of discipleship, marked by openness to God’s leading and a readiness to step into new chapters, even when we feel unprepared. [03:36]
- The Power of Community and Shared Mission
Spiritual growth flourishes in the context of authentic community. Being welcomed, prayed for, and immediately invited to participate in the life of the church demonstrates the importance of inclusion and shared mission. When a church commits to supporting, equipping, and releasing its members, it becomes a place where people are empowered to discover and use their gifts for God’s purposes, multiplying the impact far beyond what any individual could achieve alone. [04:37]
- Leadership Rooted in Generosity, Compassion, and Humility
Effective leadership is not about prominence or control, but about making room for others to flourish. Generosity with time and resources, compassion that moves to action, and humility that builds platforms for others are the marks of Christlike leadership. Such leaders create a culture where people are encouraged to step out, take risks, and grow, knowing they are supported and covered in love. [12:44]
- God’s Blueprint: Every Member Activated
The fullness of Christ is expressed when the whole body is mobilized—apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers all contributing their unique gifts. The church is not a stage for a few, but a living organism where everyone’s contribution matters. When we listen for God’s voice and fan into flame the passions and callings He places in each person, the church becomes a dynamic force for good, extending God’s kingdom in creative and unexpected ways. [20:13]
- The Legacy of Long Obedience and Faithful Remembrance
Fruitfulness in the Christian life is often the result of “long obedience in the same direction.” Marking milestones and telling stories of God’s faithfulness are vital, not as monuments to our own efforts, but as testimonies to God’s steadfast love. Our calling is to keep moving forward, trusting God for what’s next, and ensuring that our lives and our church serve as a blessing to future generations, always abiding in Christ and pointing to His goodness. [28:57]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - Personal Journey of Faith
[03:36] - Encountering God and Transformation
[04:37] - Early Discipleship and Community Support
[09:06] - Connections with Granville Chapel
[10:30] - Responding to God’s Call and Moving
[12:44] - Reflections on Leadership and Partnership
[14:09] - Generosity, Compassion, and Humility in Action
[20:13] - Discovering Granville’s DNA and Community Initiatives
[25:07] - Living Faith with Purpose and Simplicity
[28:57] - The Fruit of Long Obedience
[30:44] - Marking Milestones and Looking Forward
[32:00] - Encouragement for the Next Generation
[33:00] - Abiding in Christ and Trusting God’s Faithfulness
Study Guide
Granville Chapel Small Group Bible Study Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. Joshua 4:1-9
(Setting up stones of remembrance after crossing the Jordan River)
2. John 15:4-5
(“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”)
3. Ephesians 4:11-13
(“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”)
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### Observation Questions
1. In Joshua 4, what did God command the Israelites to do after crossing the Jordan, and what was the purpose of the twelve stones?
2. According to John 15:4-5, what is the result of abiding in Christ, and what happens if we don’t?
3. In Ephesians 4:11-13, what roles does Paul say God has given to the church, and for what purpose?
4. The sermon described how many of Granville Chapel’s most significant initiatives came from within the community, not just from leaders. What are some examples mentioned? ([20:13])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think God wanted the Israelites to set up stones of remembrance after crossing the Jordan? How might this practice help future generations trust God? ([28:57])
2. The speaker described his faith journey as beginning with a sense of lostness and being found by God. Why is it important to remember and share our own stories of encountering God? ([03:36])
3. Ephesians 4 talks about different gifts in the church. How does recognizing and activating these gifts in everyone (not just leaders) change the way a church functions? ([20:13])
4. The sermon emphasized “long obedience in the same direction.” What does this phrase mean in the context of Christian life and community? ([28:57])
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### Application Questions
1. The speaker shared how he was immediately welcomed, prayed for, and invited to participate when he first came to church. Think back to your own experience—how were you welcomed into this community? Is there someone new you could reach out to this week? ([04:37])
2. The sermon highlighted leadership marked by generosity, compassion, and humility. Is there a leader in your life who models these qualities? How can you encourage or thank them? Or, if you’re in a leadership role, what is one way you could make more room for others to flourish? ([12:44])
3. The idea of “every member activated” means everyone’s gifts matter. What is one gift or passion God has given you that you haven’t used much in the church? What’s a small step you could take to use it? ([20:13])
4. The community at Granville Chapel has a history of creative initiatives that started with ordinary people responding to God’s prompting. Is there something God has been nudging you to do—big or small? What’s holding you back? ([20:13])
5. The sermon talked about “long obedience in the same direction.” Is there an area of your life or faith where you’re tempted to give up? What would it look like to persevere, even when progress feels slow? ([28:57])
6. Joshua 4 shows the importance of marking milestones and telling stories of God’s faithfulness. What is one story of God’s faithfulness in your life that you could share with someone this week? ([30:44])
7. Jesus says, “Abide in me.” Is there a specific distraction or habit that keeps you from abiding in Christ? What practical step could you take this week to stay more connected to Him? ([30:44])
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Devotional
Day 1: God’s Faithfulness Through Generations
Throughout the years, the story of this church has been marked by God’s unwavering faithfulness, guiding, protecting, and blessing His people as they journeyed together. Just as the Israelites set up stones to remember how God parted the waters and led them into the promised land, we are called to mark and celebrate the ways God has shown Himself faithful in our own lives and community. These markers are not just for us, but for the generations to come, pointing beyond our own efforts to the God who has loved and led us every step of the way. As we look back, we are reminded that our legacy is not about our achievements, but about God’s steadfast presence and provision, encouraging us to trust Him for what lies ahead. [30:44]
Joshua 4:4-7 (ESV)
Then Joshua called the twelve men from the people of Israel, whom he had appointed, a man from each tribe. And Joshua said to them, “Pass on before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and take up each of you a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the people of Israel, that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’ then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever.”
Reflection: What is one way you can mark and remember God’s faithfulness in your life today, and how might you share that story with someone from a younger generation?
Day 2: The Power of Long Obedience
There is a unique fruit that comes from long, faithful obedience in the same direction—a perseverance that shapes both individuals and communities. The journey of faith is not always fast or easy, but as we remain committed to God’s call and continue to seek Him first, we discover that He is at work in ways we may not immediately see. Looking back, we often realize that we have moved further than we thought, and the testimony of those who have gone before us inspires us to keep running the race with endurance. This kind of steadfastness is a gift to the church and a witness to the world of God’s enduring goodness. [28:57]
Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Reflection: Where in your life do you need to practice perseverance and “long obedience,” and what is one step you can take today to keep moving forward in faith?
Day 3: Living Out the Fullness of Christ’s Gifts
God’s blueprint for the church is that every member is gifted and called to participate in expressing the fullness of Christ. The church is not just a place for a few to serve, but a body where apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers are all activated and encouraged. When each person’s gifts are fanned into flame and released, the church reflects Jesus more completely and is empowered to extend His kingdom. This collaborative, Spirit-led approach invites everyone to listen for God’s leading and to step out in faith, trusting that He will use their unique passions and talents for His purposes. [17:30]
Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV)
And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
Reflection: What is one gift or passion God has placed in you that you can offer to build up the church or bless your community this week?
Day 4: Humility and Making Room for Others
True leadership and community are marked by humility—a willingness to make room for others, to create platforms for them to thrive, and to celebrate the unique contributions each person brings. Rather than seeking the spotlight, humble leaders and members look for ways to encourage, support, and empower those around them. This spirit of humility fosters a culture where people are free to step into their callings, and where the church becomes a place of genuine collaboration and flourishing. [14:09]
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Reflection: Who is someone you can encourage or make room for today, and how can you practically support their growth or calling?
Day 5: Abiding in Christ for Lasting Fruit
At the heart of all faithful living and fruitful ministry is a simple, profound focus: abiding in Jesus. Like Mary, who chose the “one thing” of sitting at Jesus’ feet, we are invited to remain in His presence, trusting that apart from Him we can do nothing of lasting value. When we abide in Christ, our lives bear much fruit—not by striving, but by staying connected to the source of life and love. This abiding shapes our legacy and ensures that all we do points to God’s glory and faithfulness, not our own. [32:00]
John 15:4-5 (ESV)
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally abide in Jesus today, making space to listen to Him and rest in His presence?
Quotes
I think my journey of faith, I think, is one I've shared it from here before. It's really a story of lostness and being found, I think, as a young man graduating university and then encountering the love of the Father. That was my story. And it was one that radically changed my life and the trajectory of it. Not just what I understood, but in every way in which my life was oriented. [00:03:11] (33 seconds)
I think the first word of that, Andy, would be one of generosity. He was a very generous man with his time, with his resources, in his love for the church. And not just in the, when I say the church, I really mean the church as we, the living stone. So his love and care for people. [00:13:32] (24 seconds)
There was just this incredible initiative of what does it mean to live in community and be community and and how can we so that very intentionally uh as christian community in the community and and you know kingdom values being worked out. [00:24:55] (20 seconds)
But just the fruit that Granville can today give testimony to of that long obedience in the same direction and that perseverance and faithfulness to what the Lord does as we seek him first. [00:29:39] (18 seconds)
As you're erecting this altar and assembling these stones, they point not to a people that have, like, look how we've faithfully followed, but they point to a God who has faithfully loved and guided, cared for, protected, and blessed all the way through these years who parted waters, enabled them to walk to cross on dry land and take them into the promised land. [00:31:18] (22 seconds)
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