1st Thessalonians 4:1-8: Sactification

Understanding Sanctification: A Journey Towards Holiness

In today's sermon, we delved into the profound concept of sanctification, a process that God uses to make us holy. This journey is not just about avoiding sin but embracing a life that pleases God. Through the lens of biblical teachings, we explored how sanctification works and its significance in our Christian walk. Let's break down the key points and insights from the sermon.

What is Sanctification?

The Process of Becoming Holy

Sanctification is a big churchy word that essentially means the process of God making us holy. Holiness, in this context, means being set apart for God's purposes. This process is not instantaneous but a gradual transformation that the Holy Spirit works within us.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification. It is the Spirit's job to scrub the sin out of our lives, much like how mold needs to be eradicated from a house to prevent it from spreading. This cleansing process is ongoing and requires our cooperation and willingness to let the Spirit work in us.

The Importance of Pleasing God

Who Are You Trying to Please?

In our daily decisions, it's essential to ask ourselves, "Who am I trying to please?" Pleasing ourselves or others can lead to emptiness and burnout. However, pleasing God aligns us with His will and brings true fulfillment. God, as a good Father, knows what's best for us and desires to guide us towards a life that reflects His holiness.

Living to Please God

Paul's letter to the Thessalonians emphasizes the importance of living to please God. He encourages believers to continue growing in their faith and to strive for holiness more and more. This pursuit of pleasing God is not about earning His love but responding to His grace and love for us.

Avoiding Sin and Embracing Holiness

The Dangers of Sin

Sin, like mold, can start small but grow and spread if not addressed. It can lead to significant moral failures and distance us from God. The sermon highlighted the importance of recognizing and eradicating sin from our lives to prevent it from taking over.

Practical Steps to Avoid Sin

Paul's teachings often include lists of sins to avoid, such as sexual immorality, anger, malice, and greed. By identifying these areas in our lives, we can invite the Holy Spirit to help us overcome them. Regularly engaging with God's Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers are practical ways to stay vigilant against sin.

Consecration: Set Apart for God's Work

Understanding Consecration

Consecration is another aspect of sanctification. It means being set apart for a special purpose. Just as priests in the Old Testament were consecrated for their service, believers are consecrated for God's work. This involves a commitment to live according to God's standards and to be used for His glory.

Living as a Kingdom of Priests

Revelation 1:5-6 describes believers as a kingdom of priests, set apart to serve God. This calling requires us to live holy lives, free from the entanglements of sin. By embracing our consecration, we can effectively share the good news of Jesus and fulfill our mission as His representatives on earth.

Life Application

Embrace the Process of Sanctification

Sanctification is an ongoing journey that requires our active participation. Here are some practical steps to apply this week's sermon to your life:

1. **Identify Areas of Sin**: Reflect on areas in your life where sin may be lurking. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal these to you and help you overcome them.

2. **Engage with God's Word**: Make a habit of reading the Bible and meditating on its teachings. This will help you understand God's will and align your life with His standards.

3. **Pray Regularly**: Develop a consistent prayer life, seeking God's guidance and strength to live a holy life.

4. **Fellowship with Believers**: Surround yourself with other believers who can encourage and hold you accountable in your walk with Christ.

Questions for Reflection

1. What areas of sin do I need to address in my life?

2. How can I make pleasing God a priority in my daily decisions?

3. In what ways can I embrace my consecration and live out my calling as a kingdom of priests?

By taking these steps and reflecting on these questions, you can actively participate in the process of sanctification and experience the freedom and joy that comes from living a holy life.

Conclusion

Sanctification is a beautiful journey of becoming more like Christ. It involves the Holy Spirit's work in our lives, our commitment to pleasing God, and our willingness to be set apart for His purposes. As we embrace this process, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and effectively share His love with the world. Let's commit to this journey and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us into vessels of His grace and holiness.

Gospeler: What's Next?

Introduction

Welcome to Hope Summit! Today, we delve into the final sermon of our series, "The Gospeler." This series has explored the essence of the Gospel and its transformative power. As we wrap up, we focus on the responses to the Gospel, the importance of community, and the continuous journey of renewing our minds. Let's dive in and explore these themes in detail.

What Does It Mean to Say Yes to Jesus?

The Call to Repentance and Baptism

In Acts 2:36-38, Peter addresses the crowd, convicting them of their role in Jesus' crucifixion. The people, cut to the heart, ask, "What shall we do?" Peter's response is clear: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

This passage highlights the initial steps of becoming a Christian: repentance and baptism. It's a humbling experience, allowing us to participate in God's kingdom despite our imperfections.

The Privilege of Baptism

Baptism is a profound act of faith, symbolizing the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ. It's a privilege to baptize others, participating in their spiritual journey. If you ever get the chance, seek guidance from someone experienced to ensure the process is meaningful and respectful.

The Role of Community in a Christian's Life

The Early Church Model

Acts 2:42-47 paints a picture of the early church, a community devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They shared everything, supported each other, and grew in numbers daily. This model emphasizes the importance of being part of a church community, where we can grow, support one another, and experience God's love collectively.

The Importance of Small Groups

Small groups play a crucial role in personal spiritual growth. They provide a space for deeper conversations, accountability, and support. Many life-changing moments happen in these intimate settings, where we can learn from each other and grow together in faith.

Renewing Our Minds: A Continuous Journey

Living Sacrifices

Romans 12:1-2 urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This involves not conforming to the patterns of this world but being transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation allows us to discern God's will, which is good, pleasing, and perfect.

Practical Steps for Renewal

1. **Reading the Word**: Engaging with the Bible regularly helps us understand God's will and challenges us to grow.

2. **Being with Others**: Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides support, accountability, and practical examples of living out our faith.

Overcoming Sin and Living a New Life

The Danger of Habitual Sin

Romans 6:1-4 reminds us that we are called to live a new life, free from the bondage of sin. Habitual sin, or a lifestyle of sin, is dangerous and provides a foothold for Satan. It's crucial to seek help and accountability to overcome these struggles.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

1 John 2:1-2 assures us that we have an advocate in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, and empowers us to live righteously. Even when we fail, God's grace is sufficient, and the Holy Spirit continues to work in us.

Life Application

Embrace Community

This week, make an effort to engage more deeply with your church community. Join a small group, attend a fellowship event, or simply spend more time with fellow believers. These relationships are vital for your spiritual growth and support.

Renew Your Mind

Commit to daily Bible reading and prayer. Reflect on areas where you need transformation and ask God to renew your mind. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers to track your progress and stay accountable.

Overcome Sin

Identify any habitual sins in your life and seek help. Talk to a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor. Remember, you are not alone, and there is no shame in seeking help. God's grace is available, and the Holy Spirit is your advocate.

Questions for Reflection

1. **Community**: How can I engage more deeply with my church community this week?

2. **Renewal**: What areas of my life need transformation? How can I commit to renewing my mind daily?

3. **Overcoming Sin**: Are there habitual sins I need to address? Who can I reach out to for support and accountability?

Conclusion

As we conclude this series on the Gospel, remember that saying "yes" to Jesus is just the beginning. Embrace the journey of faith, engage with your community, continuously renew your mind, and seek to overcome sin. God's grace is abundant, and the Holy Spirit is with you every step of the way. Let's live out our faith boldly and support one another in this incredible journey.

Gospeler: First Importance

Understanding the Resurrection: A Path to Faith

Introduction

Welcome to our weekly sermon summary! This week, Pastor Jeff delved into the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and how it serves as the cornerstone of our faith. Whether you missed the sermon or want a quick refresher, this summary will help you grasp the key points and apply them to your life.

How Do You Know When You're Winning?

**Questioning Success in Life and Faith**

Pastor Jeff began with a thought-provoking question: "How do you know when you're winning?" This question applies to various aspects of life, from sports to relationships, and even to our spiritual journey. In the context of our faith, winning is not about personal achievements but about spreading the gospel and helping others consider the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Scoreboard of the Church

**Measuring Success in Faith**

At Hope Summit, we measure our success through our five next steps: attending church regularly, serving, studying and praying, joining groups, and sharing Jesus. These steps are our scorecard, helping us track our spiritual growth and commitment to spreading the gospel.

The State of the American Church

**Facing the Reality**

Pastor Jeff shared some sobering statistics about the decline of Christianity in America. While these numbers can be discouraging, they serve as a wake-up call for us to be more proactive in sharing our faith. The American church may be struggling, but the global church is thriving, especially in regions like Africa and Latin America.

The Resurrection: The Cornerstone of Our Faith

**Why the Resurrection Matters**

1 Corinthians 15:1-4 emphasizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the most important aspect of our faith. Without the resurrection, our faith is futile, and we are still in our sins. The resurrection validates everything Jesus said and did, offering us the promise of eternal life.

Planting the Seed: The Role of a Gospeler

**Spreading the Gospel**

Being a gospeler means planting the seed of the gospel in people's hearts. The power to grow that seed lies with God, not us. Our role is to create opportunities for others to consider the resurrection and its impact on their lives.

Life Application

**Living Out the Sermon**

This week, challenge yourself to be a gospeler. Here are some questions to ponder:

1. **Who in your life needs to hear about the resurrection of Jesus Christ?**

2. **How can you create opportunities to share your faith with them?**

3. **Are you taking the five next steps at Hope Summit to grow in your faith and help others do the same?**

Conclusion

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith and the ultimate proof of God's promises. As gospelers, our mission is to spread this good news and help others consider its life-changing impact. Let's commit to planting the seed of the gospel and trust God to make it grow.

Thank you for joining us this week. We look forward to seeing you next Sunday for our special Missions Fest!

Gospeler: Two Choices, Two Lifestyles

Jesus: The Only Way, Truth, and Life

In today's blog, we explore the profound and often controversial statement made by Jesus in John 14:6, where He declares Himself as the only way to the Father. This message challenges us to examine the two distinct lifestyles we can choose: one that leads to destruction and one that leads to life. Let's delve into the key points and lessons from the sermon.

What Did Jesus Mean in John 14:6?

In John 14:6, Jesus states, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." This declaration is a clear line in the sand, emphasizing that Jesus is the sole path to a relationship with God. For Christians, this is good news, as it provides a clear direction and purpose in life.

However, many people find this message difficult to accept because it challenges their personal beliefs and lifestyles. Living by one's own truths and choosing our own pathways in life can feel liberating, but it often leads to a life filled with lies and destruction. Jesus offers a way out of this cycle, leading us to true life and a relationship with our Heavenly Father.

The Two Lifestyles: Flesh vs. Spirit

Galatians 5:19-21 lists the acts of the flesh, including sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, and orgies. These behaviors lead to a life of destruction and separation from God.

In contrast, Galatians 5:22-25 describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are the result of living by the Spirit and following Jesus. They lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life, connected to the Father.

Sharing the Good News When it Doesn’t Seem like Good News

Sharing the gospel can be challenging, especially when the message doesn't sound like good news to others. It's essential to approach this task with empathy, understanding, and respect. 1 Peter 3:15 advises us to always be prepared to give an answer for the hope we have, but to do so with gentleness and respect.

Gospelers remember the main focus is on Christ and how he is the only one who can bring us to the Father. It's easy to get caught up in the deeds and laws, focusing on what people should or shouldn't do. However, the core of the gospel is about Jesus and His transformative power in our lives. We must remember that the fruit of the Spirit is produced by the Spirit, not by our efforts.

How Can We Apply This to Our Lives?

This week, challenge yourself to reflect on your own life. Are you living by the flesh or by the Spirit? Consider the following questions:

1. Am I relying on my own truths and ways, or am I following Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life?

2. Do I exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in my daily interactions? If not, what does it look like to keep in step with the Spirit?

3. How can I share the hope I have in Jesus with gentleness and respect?

A Challenge for the Week

Identify one person in your life who doesn't have a relationship with Jesus. Pray for the courage to share your testimony with them, focusing on how Jesus has transformed your life. Remember to approach them with empathy and respect, keeping Jesus at the center of your message.

Gospeler: Ask a Question

Understanding the Power of Asking Questions when Sharing the Gospel

At Hope Summit, we are witnessing a beautiful movement of faith as more individuals are stepping forward to embrace Jesus as their Savior. This week, we continue our "Gospeler" series, focusing on the importance of sharing the gospel. Today, we delve into the art of asking questions and how it can pave the way for meaningful conversations about faith.

Why Asking Questions Matters

Asking questions is a powerful tool in sharing the gospel. It shows genuine interest in the other person's beliefs and experiences, creating a foundation of trust and openness. When we ask questions, we communicate that we value their perspective and are not just interested in pushing an agenda.

In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abram to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation, blessing all peoples on earth through him. This passage highlights God's desire to bless humanity and reestablish His connection with us. As gospelers, we are called to be a blessing to others, sharing the good news of Jesus.

The BLESS Acronym

To help us share our faith effectively, we use the BLESS acronym:

B - Be in prayer

L - Listen to their story.

E - Eat together, building a relationship.

S - Serve them or allow them to serve you.

S - Share your story and Jesus' story.

Listening and asking questions are integral parts of this process, helping us understand where the person is spiritually and how best to share the gospel with them.

Jesus' Example

Jesus was a master at asking questions. Throughout the gospels, He asked 183 questions and answered directly only a few times. This approach allowed Him to engage deeply with people, understanding their hearts and guiding them towards truth.

Quick to Listen

In our world today there is an abundance of opinions and information. What if Christians became known for being quick listeners instead of quick with our opinions or even how we believe we have the answer? James 1:19 tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. When Gospelers ask good questions, they show they are more interested in the person than being heard. The Gospeler’s first job is to love those they want to reach with the Gospel.

Challenge for the Week

This week, I challenge you to identify one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus. Commit to praying for them and look for opportunities to ask meaningful questions about their beliefs and experiences. Focus on listening well and building a genuine relationship.

Reflective Questions

1. Who is one person in your life that you can pray for and engage in meaningful conversation?

2. How can you improve your listening skills to better understand others' perspectives?

3. What questions can you ask to open up a dialogue about faith without making the other person feel pressured?

By following Jesus' example and asking good questions, we can create opportunities for the gospel to take root in people's hearts. Let's be intentional in our interactions, seeking to bless others and share the transformative message of Jesus.

Gospeler: Unschooled and Ordinary

Embracing Our Ordinary for God's Extraordinary Work

Today, we delve back into the the idea of becoming a "Gospeler"—a bearer of the gospel. It's not just about receiving Jesus' grace but allowing it to flow through us to others. Let’s look at how God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

The Call of Ordinary Fishermen

In Matthew 4:18-22, Jesus calls His first disciples—ordinary fishermen. Peter, Andrew, James, and John were not scholars or religious leaders; they were simple men doing their daily jobs. Did Jesus choose these men because they had some hidden potential that no one else could see? Perhaps. But what if it wasn’t what Jesus saw, but what he didn’t see that matters? What if God doesn't require or even desire extraordinary qualifications in his followers? What if he is more interested in willing, humble hearts who he can equip with his Spirit? After spending three years with Jesus, these four une Acts 4:13, Peter and John would stand firm against the opposition of some of the most powerful and brightest leaders in Jerusalem and as a result, people took note that these unschooled and ordinary men had been with Jesus.

God's Preference for the Ordinary

Paul wrote to the church in Corinth explaining that God chooses the foolish, weak, and lowly to shame the wise and strong (1 Cor 1:26-29). This ensures that no one can boast before Him. The ordinary nature of Jesus' disciples allowed God's power to shine through them, making it clear that their accomplishments were due to divine intervention, not human ability.

Later, in his second letter to the Corinthians, he would remind us that God's power is made perfect in weakness (2 Cor 12:9-10). When we acknowledge our limitations, we create space for God's strength to manifest. This counter-cultural message challenges us to boast in our weaknesses, knowing that they are opportunities for God's power to be revealed.

Embrace Your Ordinary

God's call to be a gospeler is not limited to pastors or missionaries. It's for everyone. Reflect on your life and recognize that your ordinary circumstances are precisely where God wants to work. Think of the ordinary things you can do and imagine how God could use them for building his kingdom. He looked to four fishermen and told them he would teach them to fish for people. Your job, neighborhood, and daily interactions are your mission field and God can use the ordinary in your life to make an extraordinary impact in eternity.

Questions for Reflection

1. Who is one person in your life (OneLife) who needs to hear about Jesus?

2. What ordinary aspects of your life can God use for His extraordinary purposes?

3. How can you overcome feelings of inadequacy and trust in God's strength and the Spirit he promises to all who follow Him?

Challenge for the Week

Identify one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus. Pray for an opportunity to share your story of faith with them this week. Remember, it's not about having all the answers but trusting that God will use your willingness to make an impact.

Gospeler: Gospel Genealogy

Welcome to our new series "Gospeler" where we explore what it means to be someone who shares the gospel (which means good news) to others. This can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, as we delve into this topic, remember that our strength and courage come from God. Let's embark on this journey together, learning how to become gospelers who share the love of Jesus with the world.

The Great Commission

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives us the Great Commission: "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Reflect on the people who have been part of your gospel genealogy. These are the individuals who shared the love of Jesus with you and helped you grow in your faith. Just as they played a role in your spiritual journey, you are called to be part of someone else's gospel genealogy.

A disciple is someone who learns from a teacher and then passes on that knowledge. Jesus' disciples were expected to carry on His teachings, and this call has echoed through generations. Our task is to continue this legacy by sharing the gospel and making disciples.

Why is Sharing the Gospel Intimidating?

Many Christians, even seasoned ones, find the idea of sharing their faith intimidating. The fear of rejection, the feeling of inadequacy, and the concern of not being knowledgeable enough can all contribute to these fears. However, it's essential to remember that our role is not to save people but to plant the seeds of the gospel.

Dependence on God and the Power of the Gospel

In 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, Paul explains that he planted the seed of God’s Word, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. A seed is hardwired for the harvest. In the same way, the gospel is hardwired for salvation. Our role is to share the good news and encourage others in their faith, but it is God who brings spiritual growth. Just as we depend on God for the sun to rise and our hearts to beat, we must rely on Him when sharing the gospel. This dependence on God should bring us joy and peace, knowing that we are not alone in this mission.

The Gospel's Power to Save

Romans 1:16 states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." The power to save lies in the gospel itself, not in our abilities or eloquence. Our job is to share the message and trust God to do the rest. Many Christians feel the responsibility to be the super hero who swoops in to save non-believers from going to Hell. We need to remember that Jesus, the true hero, has already come and will come back again. Our role is to be unashamed that we know the way to be saved.

How Can You Be a Gospeler?

1. **Grow in Your Faith and Love**: As you deepen your relationship with God, you will naturally produce the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Fruit have seeds and one of the purposes of the fruit is so that the seeds might be dispersed. The fruit that results from growing in faith and love will naturally attract others to how great it is to follow God and give us a chance to share the gospel.

2. **Look for Opportunities**: Be attentive to moments when you can share the gospel. It could be a simple invitation to church, a conversation about faith, or an act of kindness that opens the door to sharing about Jesus.

3. **Trust in God's Power**: Remember that it is not your job to save people. Your role is to plant and water the seeds of the gospel, trusting that God will make them grow.

Questions to Reflect On

1. Who are the people in your gospel genealogy, and how did they impact your faith journey?

2. What fears or anxieties do you have about sharing the gospel, and how can you rely on God to overcome them?

3. How can you grow in your faith and love this week to become a more effective gospeler?

Conclusion

As we embark on this six-week series, let's commit to becoming gospelers who share the love of Jesus with the world. Remember, our role is to plant and water the seeds of the gospel, trusting that God will bring the growth. Let's embrace this call with joy and courage, knowing that we are not alone in this mission.

Join us next week as we continue to explore what it means to be a gospeler. And don't forget to get involved in a small group for a more interactive learning experience. Together, we can make a difference in the world by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.