We as a people are defined by what we believe, what we profess and what we act upon. In the United States "we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." I would take almost two centuries for us to figure out what that really meant.
When we consider what it means to be the church, the Body of Christ, we look to life and mission of Jesus of Nazareth. In Luke's Gospel (Luke 4:14-21), Jesus declares his mission in the fulfillment of God's promises through the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 61:1-2).
We are Gospel people, living out the mission of Jesus in our time. But what does that mean in a 21st century world of technology, global injustice and growing indifference to spiritual life.
How does the Gospel shape who we are, how we view the world and how we respond to the pressures, demand and choices for the life we live.
How do we become Gospel people, not just in words, but in action and power?
(1) Accept the Authority of God
All military men and women know that their orders come from their commanders. They accept the authority of those over them and carry out the tasks they are given. Our authority comes from God, the calling is from God and God is in charge.
(2) Look for the Inspiration of God the Spirit
During the Second World War, resistance fighter in occupied France were fighting an almost insurmountable force, the well trained, well supplied and well entrenched German army. But they had a vision, a dream of freedom for their children and cause worth fighting and dying for. Their cause was not about more prosperity, but about the meaning of life itself.
Ask yourself what your life is about.
(3) Participate in Church Life
All sports teams know the advantage of having a 'home-field-advantage' when preparing for a difficult task. They like positive affirming people around to encourage them and inspire them to continue to the end. Marathon runners always remark on the inspiration they receive from those along the course encouraging them to finish the race the best they can. We need the church if we're going to finish what we've started.
Sermon Notes 06.22.14 What Is the Good News
Gospel Centered Life 6.22.14
Sermon Audio
The Gospel Difference 6.22.14e
The Gospel Difference 6.22.14 L
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