2024-08-04 BASIC TRAINING

Title: Living in Light of Eternity: BASIC TRAINING-Four Fundamentals for a Faithful Life

Have you ever wondered how to live your life today with an eye on eternity? If you're like me, you might find it challenging to balance the demands of daily life while keeping your focus on the eternal promises of God. In our recent sermon series, "Living in Light of Eternity," we explored the book of 1 Thessalonians to uncover practical ways to live faithfully in the here and now, all while keeping our eyes on the future that God has promised us.

The Centrality of Prayer

One of the key takeaways from our study is the importance of prayer. Prayer isn't just a ritual; it's a lifeline. Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonians, emphasizes the need for comprehensive and focused prayer. He says, "We always thank God for all of you, making mention of you constantly in our prayers" (1 Thessalonians 1:2).

Why is prayer so crucial? Because it connects us directly to God. It’s our way of communicating with Him, sharing our burdens, and seeking His guidance. Imagine having a direct line to the Creator of the universe—why wouldn't we use it?

Action Step: Make prayer a central part of your daily routine. Start with a few minutes each morning, thanking God for His blessings and asking for His guidance throughout the day.

The Confidence of Life Change

Another fundamental is having confidence in the life-changing power of the gospel. Paul assures the Thessalonians that their faith is genuine because they have seen the power of the gospel at work in their lives. He writes, "For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit and with full assurance" (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5).

Have you experienced this life change? The gospel isn't just a story; it's a transformative power that changes lives. Whether it's breaking free from addiction, finding peace in turmoil, or experiencing joy in sorrow, the gospel has the power to change your life.

Action Step: Reflect on how the gospel has changed your life. Share your testimony with someone this week to encourage them in their faith journey.

The Commitment to Discipleship

Discipleship is another cornerstone of living in light of eternity. Paul and his team lived among the Thessalonians, setting an example for them to follow. He says, "You yourselves became imitators of us and of the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Discipleship is about relationships—learning from those who are further along in their faith journey and helping those who are just starting out.

Who is your Paul? Who is pouring into your life, helping you grow in your faith? And who is your Timothy? Who are you mentoring and guiding?

Action Step: Identify a mentor who can pour into your life and someone you can disciple. Commit to meeting with them regularly to grow together in your faith.

The Call to Faithfulness

Finally, Paul commends the Thessalonians for their faithfulness. He writes, "For the word of the Lord rang out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achai, but in every place that your faith in God has gone out" (1 Thessalonians 1:8). Their faithfulness was evident to everyone around them, and it made a significant impact.

Are you living a life that echoes the gospel? Your actions, words, and attitudes can be a powerful testimony to those around you.

Action Step: Be intentional about living out your faith in your daily interactions. Let your life be a testimony to the transformative power of the gospel.

Conclusion

Living in light of eternity means making prayer central, having confidence in the gospel's life-changing power, committing to discipleship, and being faithful in our daily lives. These fundamentals are not just for our benefit but for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

So, what will you do this week to live in light of eternity? Will you make prayer a priority? Will you share your testimony? Will you commit to discipleship? Will you live faithfully?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word and the guidance it provides. Help us to make prayer central in our lives, to have confidence in the life-changing power of the gospel, to commit to discipleship, and to live faithfully each day. May our lives echo Your love and grace to those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2024-07-28 One Minute After You Die - Questions & Answers

Title: What Happens One Minute After You Die? - Questions & Answers

Have you ever wondered what happens one minute after you die? It's a question that can be both frightening and hopeful. In our recent sermon series, we explored this profound topic, and today, I want to address some of the most pressing questions you might have about life after death.

What Happens to Babies When They Die?

You might be wondering, "What happens to babies when they die?" It's a question that weighs heavily on many hearts. While the Bible doesn't provide a single verse that explicitly states the fate of babies, there are strong indications that God's mercy covers them. Jesus' love for children is evident throughout the Scriptures. In Matthew 18:2-4, Jesus calls a child to stand among them and says, "Unless you turn and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This shows God's special place for children in His heart.

Will We Become Angels When We Die?

Another common question is, "Will we become angels when we die?" The answer is no. Angels are distinct, created beings with different roles and responsibilities. We, as humans, are created in God's image and have a unique relationship with Him. When we die, we don't transform into angels; instead, we become perfected in the image of Jesus Christ.

Will My Pet Be in Heaven?

For many of us, our pets are like family. So, it's natural to ask, "Will my pet be in heaven?" While the Bible doesn't explicitly say that our pets will be in heaven, it does indicate that there will be animals in the new creation (Isaiah 11). God, in His infinite love and generosity, may very well recreate our beloved pets to bring us joy in eternity.

Will Our Abilities Be Restored in Heaven?

You might also wonder, "Will a person's mental and physical abilities be restored in heaven?" The answer is a resounding yes. Revelation 21:5 says, "Behold, I am making all things new." This includes the restoration of our bodies and minds. Those who have suffered from physical or mental disabilities will be fully restored, free from the curse of sin.

What About Cremation?

If you're concerned about cremation, rest assured that it doesn't affect your soul's journey to heaven. 2 Corinthians 5:8 tells us, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." Whether you're buried or cremated, your soul will be with God, and He will restore your body in the new creation.

Will We Be Married in Heaven?

Marriage is another topic that raises questions. Jesus addressed this in Matthew 22:30, saying, "In the resurrection, they neither marry nor are given in marriage." While we won't be married in heaven, we will have a deeper, more intimate relationship with our loved ones and with God.

Conclusion

The main point of this sermon series is that God's love and mercy extend beyond our earthly lives. He has a plan for us, and we can trust Him with our future. So, what will you do this week to deepen your relationship with Jesus? Will you trust Him with your questions and uncertainties?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and mercy. Help us to trust You with our questions about life after death. Strengthen our faith and draw us closer to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.