Whoever Has Ears, Let Them Hear Part 2—by Justin Renton
June 27, 2023
Sermon summary:
Revelation 2:8-11 Jesus had no criticism for the church in Smyrna. He knew their misery and hardship and commended them for being rich spiritually. We freak out when people say horrible things about the church. They were warned about the upcoming challenges they would face, and encouraged to persevere. It is tempting to compromise, but Jesus's sword will cut down all your excuses.
Watch the full service here (the sermon starts at 39 mins)
The Holy Spirit gives guidance and direction in our missionary work. Are we doing the work the Spirit has set aside for each one of us to do? He knows the time, place and person to reach out to. Are we listening and obeying when he nudges us? The Holy Spirit forms Christ in all of us and it's a lifetime journey. Seek to be filled. Listen to his voice. Step out boldly.
Giving is an act of trust. It is also not an obligation but an act of worship. Give from the heart, not as a duty, but as a way to express gratitude. Giving is about unity in the church, it is motivated by grace, not guilt, and a spiritual act of joyful worship. Jesus demonstrated sacrificial giving through his actions, leaving us an example to follow.
To embrace Jesus's mission, I must first clothe myself with Jesus and have his character formed in me. He must become greater, I must become less. Then I"ll be able to do as Jesus did.
God's grace is with me. We need each other. Grace is a gift.