2024-08-11 _ SERVING WITH ETERNITY IN MIND

Title: Serving Like Jesus: The Heart of a Deacon

You might wonder why the role of a deacon is so crucial in the church. Or perhaps you’ve asked yourself, "How can I serve my church in a way that truly honors God?" Today, we’re diving into the heart of what it means to serve as a deacon, inspired by a recent sermon on 1 Thessalonians 2. Whether you’re a deacon, aspiring to be one, or simply looking to deepen your service to God, this message is for you.

The Heart of Service: Glorifying God

The main point of the sermon is clear: True service in the church is about glorifying God, not ourselves. Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6 remind us that our service should be God-centered. Paul and his team served the Thessalonians not for personal gain or recognition but to honor God. They faced opposition and hardship, yet their focus remained on glorifying God through their actions.

Why is this important for you? Because when your service is rooted in glorifying God, it transforms not only your life but also the lives of those around you. It shifts the focus from self-promotion to God-promotion, creating a ripple effect of genuine, Christ-like love and service within the church.

The Substance of Service: The Gospel

Paul’s ministry was not just about preaching; it was about living out the gospel. In 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, Paul describes his gentle, nurturing approach, likening it to a nursing mother caring for her children. This imagery underscores the importance of sharing not just the message of the gospel but also our lives with others.

What does this mean for you? It means that your service should be deeply rooted in the gospel. The good news of Jesus Christ should inform and transform every aspect of your life. When you serve others, you’re not just meeting their physical needs; you’re also sharing the love and truth of Jesus with them.

The Context of Service: Relationships

Paul and his team didn’t just preach and leave; they lived among the Thessalonians, building deep, meaningful relationships. In 1 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Paul emphasizes the importance of sharing their lives with the new believers, working night and day to support them.

Why should you care? Because real, impactful service happens in the context of relationships. God created us for community, and it’s through these relationships that we grow and help others grow in their faith. When you invest in relationships within your church, you’re creating a strong, supportive community that reflects the love of Christ.

Action Steps: How You Can Serve Like a Deacon

1. Examine Your Motives: Reflect on why you serve. Are you seeking recognition, or are you genuinely aiming to glorify God? Ask God to purify your motives and help you serve with a heart focused on Him.

2. Root Your Service in the Gospel: Make the gospel the foundation of your service. Share the love and truth of Jesus in every act of service, whether big or small.

3. Invest in Relationships: Build meaningful relationships within your church. Spend time with others, listen to their needs, and support them in their walk with Christ.

4. Lead by Example: Whether you’re a deacon or not, strive to be an example of Christ-like service. Show others what it means to serve selflessly and with a heart full of love for God and His people.

Conclusion

The point is clear: Jesus wants your whole heart in service. What will you do this week to give it to Him? Will you examine your motives, root your service in the gospel, invest in relationships, and lead by example? Remember, without taking these steps, you’ll miss out on the fullness of what Jesus wants for you and your church community.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of selfless service that Jesus set for us. Help us to serve with hearts that seek to glorify You above all else. Root our service in the gospel and guide us to build meaningful relationships within our church. May our actions reflect Your love and truth, and may we lead others to do the same. 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.