Saturday, September 30, 2023
Speaker:
Ben Snyder, Lead Pastor
Title:
Purposeful Steadiness
Theme Verse:
John 14:26 (NLT)
"But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you."
Bottom Line:
Clarity of PURPOSE increases my STEADINESS.
John 4:34-35 (NLT)
Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work. You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest."
Philippians 2:17-18 (NLT)
But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
How does PURPOSE increase STEADINESS?
Clarifies my IDENTITY
WHO before DO
(Matthew 17:5; Ephesians 2:8-10)
Clarifies my GIFTING
HOW before WHAT
(1 Corinthians 12, 1 Peter 4:10-12)
Clarifies my ASSIGNMENT
NOW before NEXT
(2 Corinthians 5:20; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23)
Ephesians 5:15-20 (NLT)
So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A church focused on itself dies.
A church focused on mission thrives.
Additional Resources:
Holy Trinity Brompton - Church in London
Ask NT Wright Anything
Surprised by Hope - NT Wright
Into the Heart of Romans - NT Wright.
Song Links:
Glorious Day
King of Kings
How I Need You
Discussion Questions:
- Icebreaker: Describe a time when you have been somewhere and wondered, "What am I doing here?"
- What are some areas people often mistake for purpose?
- Read John 4:34-35. What do you learn about Jesus and purpose in these verses?
- What defines your identity? How has God’s Spirit gifted and equipped you to serve others?
- What assignment has God given you to live out your purpose right now? What is one thing you can do to make the most of every opportunity he has put before you (Ephesians 5:16-17)?