Recently, I had the opportunity to address graduates of our most recent Abundant Life Program class. Below are my notes:
2 short thoughts:
-What do CHURCHES need, as transformational agents in their communities?
-What do YOU need, as you continue to seek what are the good works God ordained you walk in?
What do the churches need?
1. Commitment to the Gospel
Acts 13 – First Missionaries: Paul and Barnabas give the 1st missionary sermon
15 After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.”
23 “From this man’s descendants (David) God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.
38 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39 Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.
More than any program, communities need the person of Jesus Christ
2. Leaders equipped to serve
Titus 1:9 – Regarding Elders
9He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.
What do You need?
There are two commitments you must carry with you wherever you go:
1. To be persistent and teachable students of God’s Word.
-We must submit to the wisdom of the Word (I delight to do your will. Ps. 40:8)
-We must crave the nutrition of the Word (Like newborns crave milk. 1 Pet. 2:2)
-We must be equipped by the Word (2 Tim. 3:16-17)
2. To a habit of ongoing self-examination.
You and I need to get used to standing before the mirror of the Word of God, so that we can see ourselves as we really are.
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)
Healthy Christianity is found at the intersection of accurate self-knowledge and the true knowledge of God.
Colossians 2:6-7 reads, Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Just as you have faithfully completed Abundant Life, continue to grow in Christ-likeness and serve your community for His glory.
