2024-09-29 UNTIL JESUS COMES...

Title: Building a Gospel Community at Highland

How often do you think about what we’re building together at Highland Baptist Church? You might walk in and out of the building every week, but have you ever paused to consider what our collective efforts are creating? If you’re like most of us, you might not have given it much thought. But understanding our mission is crucial for our growth and unity as a church family.

At Highland, we’re committed to building a gospel-shaped community. This means everything we do—from how we spend our money to how we invest our time—is aimed at creating a community that reflects the teachings and love of Jesus Christ. But how do we achieve this? Let’s explore four key actions that can guide us in building this gospel community until Jesus comes.

1. Honor Those Who Lead You

Until Jesus comes, we are called to honor those who lead us. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Paul urges us to recognize and respect those who labor among us and lead us in the Lord. These leaders work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to guide us in our spiritual journey. They could be our deacons, growth group leaders, or even those who serve in children’s ministry.

How can you honor them?

• Recognize their efforts: Take note of their hard work and dedication.
• Regard them highly in love: Show genuine love and appreciation for their service.
• Live peaceably: Avoid conflicts and support their leadership.

2. Encourage the Weak

Until Jesus comes, we must encourage the weak among us. Paul gives us a clear directive in 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 to warn the idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, and be patient with everyone. The weak could be those struggling with physical ailments, spiritual doubts, or life’s challenges.

How can you encourage them?

• Warn the idle: Lovingly correct those who are straying from their path.
• Comfort the discouraged: Offer a listening ear and a comforting word to those who are downhearted.
• Help the weak: Provide support, whether it’s through prayer, a helping hand, or just being there for them.
• Be patient: Understand that everyone’s journey is different and requires time and grace.

3. Continue Personal Spiritual Growth

Until Jesus comes, we must continue our personal spiritual growth. Paul emphasizes the importance of rejoicing always, praying constantly, and giving thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). These outward expressions of faith are crucial for our spiritual development.

How can you grow spiritually?

• Rejoice always: Cultivate a joyful heart that finds its source in Jesus.
• Pray constantly: Make prayer a regular part of your daily routine.
• Give thanks in everything: Recognize God’s grace in all circumstances, even the challenging ones.

4. Let Christ Work in You

Until Jesus comes, let Christ work in you. Paul’s prayer in 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 is a powerful reminder that God is committed to sanctifying us completely. He who calls us is faithful and will complete the work He has begun in us.

How can you let Christ work in you?

• Trust in His faithfulness: Believe that God will complete the work He has started in you.
• Partner with God: Actively participate in your spiritual growth by following Jesus and His teachings.
• Stay connected: Engage with your church community to support and be supported in your faith journey.

Conclusion

Building a gospel community is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. What steps will you take this week to honor your leaders, encourage the weak, grow spiritually, and let Christ work in you? Remember, our faithfulness to the gospel is not measured by numbers or buildings but by our commitment to living out these principles until Jesus comes.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the leaders who guide us, the community that supports us, and the grace that sustains us. Help us to honor those who lead, encourage the weak, and grow in our faith. May we always let Christ work in us, shaping us into a gospel community that reflects Your love and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2024-09-22 BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Title: Living in the Light: Embracing Spiritual Growth Together

You might wonder why spiritual growth is so important. Why should you care about growing in your faith? The truth is, your spiritual journey is not just about you; it's about how you can impact others and live a life that reflects Jesus. In our recent sermon, we explored the parallels between physical fitness and spiritual growth, and how both require intentionality, consistency, and community. Let's dive into how you can take concrete steps to grow in your faith and help others do the same.

The Main Point: Commit to Spiritual Growth Together

The main point of the sermon is clear: We are called to be committed to one another's spiritual growth by helping each other grow in Jesus as we wait for His return. This commitment involves remembering that Jesus' return is sure and sudden, resisting complacency, resting in the finished work of Christ, and realizing that salvation is just the beginning of our relationship with Him.

Remember That Jesus' Return is Sure and Sudden

You need to understand that Jesus' return is not a distant possibility; it's a certainty. The Bible tells us that His return will be like a thief in the night—unexpected and sudden. This should motivate you to live a life that is always ready for His return. Are you living in a way that reflects this urgency?

Resist the Urge to Live in Complacency

It's easy to become spiritually lazy, especially when life gets busy. But Paul reminds us that we are children of the light, not of the darkness. This means we should be awake, self-controlled, and actively growing in our faith. Are you complacent in your spiritual life? If so, it's time to wake up and take action.

Rest in the Finished Work of Christ

One of the most freeing truths of the gospel is that Jesus has already won the victory. You don't have to strive for salvation; you work from it. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross means that you are not appointed to wrath but to obtain salvation. Are you resting in this truth, or are you still trying to earn God's favor?

Realize That Salvation is Just the Beginning

Salvation is not the end goal; it's the starting point of a lifelong journey with Jesus. Paul encourages us to build each other up and to be committed to one another's spiritual growth. Are you investing in the spiritual growth of those around you? Are you allowing others to invest in you?

Action Steps to Take

1. Be Intentional: Set aside time each day for prayer and Bible study. Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
2. Join a Community: Get involved in a small group or Bible study where you can encourage and be encouraged by others.
3. Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve in your church or community. Serving others helps you grow and keeps you focused on Jesus.
4. Share Your Faith: Don't keep the good news to yourself. Share it with your friends, family, and coworkers.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart. What will you do this week to give it to Him? Will you commit to growing in your faith and helping others do the same? Remember, your outlook determines your outcome. If you focus on Jesus and His mission, you'll find purpose and joy in your spiritual journey.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation and the promise of Your return. Help us to live with urgency, resisting complacency and resting in Your finished work. Guide us to invest in the spiritual growth of others and to be open to their investment in us. May our lives reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.