Transformative Power of Communion and Personal Surrender
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the profound significance of communion and the transformative power of Jesus Christ in our lives. We began by praying for our brother, acknowledging the unique journey God has led him through, and asking for strength and guidance in his life. We then transitioned to the Lord's Supper, emphasizing that everyone who professes Jesus Christ is welcome at our table. Communion is not just a ritual but a powerful act that reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant He established. We were encouraged to take a 30-day challenge to partake in communion at home, allowing the Lord to reveal its many aspects to us.
We delved into the essence of true surrender to Christ, which goes beyond religious rituals and transforms our very nature. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, His resurrection, and the new covenant He established are central to our faith. This transformation is not about avoiding hell but about becoming new creations in Christ. We were reminded that Jesus took our place in suffering and death, and through His resurrection, He offers us new life.
We also discussed the importance of self-examination and rightly discerning the body of Christ during communion. This involves not only confessing our sins but also recognizing our identity as the righteousness of God in Christ. The story of King David's repentance after his grave sins served as a powerful illustration of God's mercy and the transformative power of genuine repentance. David's heartfelt plea for a clean heart and a renewed spirit is a model for us all.
Finally, we were encouraged to seek a personal relationship with Jesus, beyond what others say about Him. This personal encounter with Christ is what truly transforms us. We were reminded that Jesus is always with us, even in our darkest moments, drawing us closer to Him. The call to follow Jesus involves denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and embracing the transformative journey He leads us on.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Communion: Communion is a profound act that goes beyond a mere ritual. It is a powerful reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant He established. By partaking in communion, we remember His body broken for us and His blood shed for the remission of our sins. This act of remembrance brings us closer to the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. [07:19]
2. True Surrender to Christ: Surrendering to Christ is not about adhering to religious rituals but about a deep transformation of our nature. When we truly surrender, Christ begins to change us from the inside out. This transformation is about becoming new creations in Christ, not just avoiding hell. It is a journey of becoming more like Him. [08:51]
3. Self-Examination and Identity in Christ: During communion, it is essential to examine ourselves and rightly discern the body of Christ. This involves confessing our sins and recognizing our identity as the righteousness of God in Christ. Understanding our true identity in Christ empowers us to live transformed lives. [13:57]
4. The Transformative Power of Repentance: The story of King David's repentance after his grave sins illustrates the transformative power of genuine repentance. David's heartfelt plea for a clean heart and a renewed spirit shows us that no matter how far we have fallen, God's mercy is available to us. True repentance leads to a deep transformation and restoration. [43:32]
5. Personal Relationship with Jesus: It is crucial to seek a personal relationship with Jesus beyond what others say about Him. This personal encounter with Christ is what truly transforms us. Jesus is always with us, even in our darkest moments, drawing us closer to Him. Embracing this personal relationship leads to a life of transformation and freedom in Christ. [54:15]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[05:27] - Prayer for Brother
[06:15] - Introduction to Communion
[07:19] - The Power of Communion
[08:51] - True Surrender to Christ
[09:55] - Wholeness Through Christ
[10:55] - Remembering Jesus' Sacrifice
[13:57] - Self-Examination and Identity in Christ
[15:57] - The Bread of Life
[18:51] - Transformation and Restoration
[21:16] - Personal Relationship with Jesus
[23:11] - The Long Road Home
[25:03] - Denying Ourselves and Taking Up Our Cross
[28:20] - The Cost of Following Christ
[32:55] - The Honor of Sacrifice
[34:14] - Jesus' Unchanging Love
[36:54] - Psalm 51: A Model of Repentance
[43:32] - David's Plea for a Clean Heart
[54:15] - Invitation to Run to Jesus
[59:11] - Confession and Transformation
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 - The institution of the Lord's Supper and the importance of self-examination.
2. Psalm 51:1-12 - David's prayer of repentance and plea for a clean heart.
3. Matthew 16:24-26 - Jesus' call to deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Him.
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 say about the significance of the Lord's Supper and how we should approach it?
2. In Psalm 51, what specific requests does David make to God in his prayer of repentance?
3. According to Matthew 16:24-26, what are the three actions Jesus says one must take to follow Him?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the act of communion serve as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant He established? ([07:19])
2. What does true surrender to Christ look like according to the sermon, and how does it differ from merely following religious rituals? ([08:51])
3. How does David's repentance in Psalm 51 illustrate the transformative power of genuine repentance? ([43:32])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your personal experience with communion. How has it impacted your understanding of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant? ([07:19])
2. The sermon encourages a 30-day challenge to partake in communion at home. How can you incorporate this practice into your daily routine, and what do you hope to gain from it? ([07:19])
3. True surrender to Christ involves a deep transformation of our nature. What areas of your life do you feel need transformation, and how can you begin to surrender them to Christ? ([08:51])
4. During communion, we are called to examine ourselves and recognize our identity in Christ. What steps can you take to better understand and live out your identity as the righteousness of God in Christ? ([13:57])
5. David's plea for a clean heart in Psalm 51 is a model for genuine repentance. Is there a specific sin or area of your life where you need to seek God's mercy and transformation? ([43:32])
6. The sermon emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus. How can you deepen your personal relationship with Him this week, beyond what others say about Him? ([54:15])
7. Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. What does this look like in your daily life, and what specific steps can you take to follow this call more closely? ([25:03])
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Communion
Communion is a profound act that goes beyond a mere ritual. It is a powerful reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant He established. By partaking in communion, we remember His body broken for us and His blood shed for the remission of our sins. This act of remembrance brings us closer to the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. Communion is an invitation to reflect deeply on the love and grace that Jesus extends to us through His ultimate sacrifice.
When we partake in communion, we are not just performing a religious duty; we are engaging in a sacred act that connects us to the very heart of the Gospel. It is a moment to pause and remember the immense love that led Jesus to the cross. This remembrance is not passive but active, calling us to live out the implications of His sacrifice in our daily lives. By taking the 30-day challenge to partake in communion at home, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding and experience of its many facets. [07:19]
1 Corinthians 11:24-25 (ESV): "And when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.'"
Reflection: How can you make your next communion experience more meaningful by reflecting on the specific ways Jesus' sacrifice has impacted your life?
Day 2: True Surrender to Christ
Surrendering to Christ is not about adhering to religious rituals but about a deep transformation of our nature. When we truly surrender, Christ begins to change us from the inside out. This transformation is about becoming new creations in Christ, not just avoiding hell. It is a journey of becoming more like Him. True surrender involves letting go of our own desires and allowing Christ to shape our thoughts, actions, and character.
This transformation is a continuous process that requires daily commitment and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of growing in Christlikeness. As we surrender more of ourselves to Him, we begin to see changes in our attitudes, behaviors, and relationships. This journey of transformation is marked by a deepening love for God and others, as well as a growing desire to live in a way that honors Him. [08:51]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Day 3: Self-Examination and Identity in Christ
During communion, it is essential to examine ourselves and rightly discern the body of Christ. This involves confessing our sins and recognizing our identity as the righteousness of God in Christ. Understanding our true identity in Christ empowers us to live transformed lives. Self-examination is not about condemning ourselves but about aligning our hearts with God's truth and grace.
Recognizing our identity in Christ means understanding that we are forgiven, loved, and accepted by God. It means living out of this identity rather than being defined by our past mistakes or current struggles. This understanding transforms the way we see ourselves and others, leading to a life marked by grace, humility, and love. By regularly examining ourselves and embracing our identity in Christ, we can experience the fullness of the new life He offers. [13:57]
1 Corinthians 11:28-29 (ESV): "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."
Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on your identity in Christ. How does understanding that you are the righteousness of God in Christ change the way you view yourself and your actions?
Day 4: The Transformative Power of Repentance
The story of King David's repentance after his grave sins illustrates the transformative power of genuine repentance. David's heartfelt plea for a clean heart and a renewed spirit shows us that no matter how far we have fallen, God's mercy is available to us. True repentance leads to a deep transformation and restoration. It involves acknowledging our sins, turning away from them, and seeking God's forgiveness and renewal.
Repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins but about a complete change of heart and mind. It is about turning away from sin and turning towards God, allowing Him to cleanse and restore us. David's example teaches us that genuine repentance brings about a profound change in our relationship with God and others. It leads to a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper commitment to living a life that honors God. [43:32]
Psalm 51:10-12 (ESV): "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."
Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you need to seek God's forgiveness and renewal? How can you take steps towards genuine repentance today?
Day 5: Personal Relationship with Jesus
It is crucial to seek a personal relationship with Jesus beyond what others say about Him. This personal encounter with Christ is what truly transforms us. Jesus is always with us, even in our darkest moments, drawing us closer to Him. Embracing this personal relationship leads to a life of transformation and freedom in Christ. It involves spending time with Him, listening to His voice, and allowing His presence to guide and shape our lives.
A personal relationship with Jesus is marked by intimacy, trust, and dependence on Him. It is about knowing Him personally and experiencing His love and grace in a tangible way. This relationship transforms the way we live, think, and interact with others. It brings about a deep sense of peace, joy, and purpose, as we walk closely with our Savior. [54:15]
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: How can you cultivate a deeper personal relationship with Jesus this week? What specific steps can you take to spend more time in His presence and listen to His voice?
Quotes
1. "We take the Lord's Supper, we take communion here, and I don't care who you are, you're welcome at our table. Amen. If you profess the Lord Jesus Christ, come on, you're welcome at our table. So as they pass out, feel free to take it. And some may go, well, I'll go the way. That's fine. There's no pressure either way. Okay? But this is something we do, and I believe it's powerful. In fact, what I've encouraged you all to do, if you will and you want to and you can, to take the 30-day challenge, to take communion in your home, yourself, by yourself, or with your spouse or your family, however you want to do it, but do it the next 30 days. And as you do, pray and let the Lord reveal to you. There's so many aspects of what the Lord's Supper brings to believers. Amen." [07:19] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When you surrender to Christ, when you truly surrender to Christ, He begins to change your nature. You know what I'm saying? It's a transformation. It's not just about beating hell or not going to hell. It's about being new, amen, in Christ. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. And so we, truly, we're offering this when He, when He, that last supper, as they were eating the Passover meal, He changed history forever, because He said, when He broke that bread, He said, take and eat, this is my body, which is broken for you. Amen. When He held the cup up and said, now take and drink, this is the blood of my new covenant. Hallelujah." [08:51] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Word of God says, without the shedding of blood, there's no remission of sin. The Word says, that with His stripes we have been made whole. So with that body, thank you brother, with that body that was broken, with that body that was beaten, thank you brother, we have access to wholeness. Now, what that was talking about more than anything was being made whole with the Lord, was being reunified with Him in your spirit. Amen. However, it's also talking about being healed in your physical body. I believe in divine health. Amen. But it far surpasses anything that I can try to communicate. Anything, Jerry, that I can try to say, I can bring out this, and it's never good enough. Come on, y'all. It's never enough." [09:55] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Are you really crazy enough to believe that Jesus was physically dead? Yes. And then three days later, rose from the dead? Yes. You mean to tell me y'all believe that? Yes. Me too. Hallelujah. And that's what sets Christ apart from any other and I don't like religion, I don't like to use the word, but from any other religious entity. Hallelujah. So when you walk with Him, it's not about a bunch of news and documents. It's not about a bunch of cans and cans. It's not about condemnation. But it's about transformation, freedom." [11:26] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I want to encourage you, whoever you are, to get to know him for yourself. Amen. I want to encourage you, whoever you are, wherever you're at spiritually, to seek him yourself. And there's a lot of well-meaning people that tell you about Jesus and that's good. But I found out something. A lot of well-meaning people will tell you stuff that's crazy. I only got one amen out of that. Have you ever had some religious group tell you something that was just absolutely nuts? Don't point. So find him for yourself. And yes, find out about him. But don't just find out about him. Get to know him." [21:16] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Then Jesus said to his disciples, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me. Well, you know, that's three things that he said for us to do if we're going to follow him. Amen. So I'm going, I'm going, okay, if any man will come after me. All right, Lord, I want to do that. Amen. Yes, I want to follow you, Jesus. All right. Well, can we, how about the next thing? Can we get back to that hope? Don't look at me like a mule staring down a new gate. You know what I'm talking about. Can we deny ourself? Yeah, it sounds good. I can say it, but every time I have to exercise that, I don't like it. Amen. So Lord, let's just get back to it. Let's move to the next step. Maybe this is a little better. Deny yourself. Take up your cross." [25:03] (81 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "What is a man profiting if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul? What good does it do to have a bank full of money if you lose your own soul, man? What good does it do to have a successful business and have a bunch of kids? If you don't know Jesus, I'm telling you, man, it's just not worth it. What shall a man give in exchange for his soul? I love the lyrics of that song. It says, every time I try to make it on my own, how many of you ever try to do that? How did it work out for you? Every time I try to stand and start to fall, all these lonely roads that I have traveled on, there was Jesus." [33:33] (65 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Wherever we're at today, wherever you're at today, Jesus is there, man, with arms outstretched. I want to tell you, he's never changed his mind about you. He's never decided to throw you away and go, oh, wow, okay, John, that's too much. I'm going to have to catch you. No, that's not the nature of our Lord. Come on, y'all. That's not his nature. I'm keeping score. Oh, now, you're going to, all right, now, let's get her now. No, he doesn't have that get him now attitude. Oh, yeah, get him now because he wants you. Because he knows that once he comes in, the transformation starts." [34:49] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Create in me, Lord, in order for me to be good, in I'm going supernatural assistance from you. I can't just make up my mind to be good or make up my mind to serve God. No. Create in me, create something in me that doesn't exist right now. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. Don't cast me away from your presence and take not your Holy Spirit from At that point, they've craved the presence of God. My heart is that in this season in our lives that we will begin to crave like an addiction, crave his presence. Don't take your presence away. Don't take your Holy Spirit from me." [46:34] (76 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "So today, I don't know where everybody's at, spiritually, emotionally. I don't know. A lot of people watch this. I don't know why. I don't know what they do. I believe people have come across through watching our services on social media and found out for that. But I don't know where everybody's at. I don't know where you're at. I don't know if you're there, if you're running from the Lord, or if you're not. But let me tell you, if you're not where you ought to be, man, with Him, let me encourage you to run to Jesus. It's not about joining the church or shaking the preacher's hand, but run to Jesus. See, the enemy will come in and try to disrupt and try to create chaos and try to create dissension and stuff. What the Lord wants to do today is restore. Forgive me for ever complicating because it's simple. There is Jesus." [54:15] (88 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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