WEBVTT 00:00:00.600 --> 00:00:04.040 Thank you very much, everyone who's already participated in the service. 00:00:04.139 --> 00:00:10.300 If you have a Bible, keep it open at Matthew chapter 6, the passage that Esther read out to us. 00:00:10.400 --> 00:00:13.500 That would be really helpful as we look through this evening. 00:00:13.620 --> 00:00:16.820 We're starting a new series on what it means to be a distinct disciple. 00:00:18.000 --> 00:00:21.960 But before we do that, let's just bow our heads quickly and pray to our great God. 00:00:25.359 --> 00:00:26.719 Our great God in heaven. 00:00:27.719 --> 00:00:33.000 You are the God who can hold all the dust of the world in scales. 00:00:33.179 --> 00:00:37.799 You're the God who all the nations of this world are but a drop in a bucket in comparison to you. 00:00:38.700 --> 00:00:45.519 And yet you are the God who, like a shepherd, tenderly brings your flock to yourself. 00:00:45.879 --> 00:00:50.299 You gather your lambs in your arms and we thank you that we can be a part of that flock. 00:00:50.899 --> 00:00:55.340 We ask that as we turn to your word, you'd challenge us, you'd encourage us, 00:00:55.340 --> 00:00:57.060 and you'd help us live for your glory. 00:00:57.580 --> 00:00:58.540 In Jesus' name. 00:00:59.060 --> 00:00:59.380 Amen. 00:01:01.220 --> 00:01:07.460 So this evening, as has already been said, we're starting our short series on what it means to be a distinct disciple. 00:01:08.180 --> 00:01:12.000 So as Christians, we are different from the world around us. 00:01:12.640 --> 00:01:18.879 We have a different identity, a different citizenship, a different view of the world, 00:01:18.879 --> 00:01:21.039 and we have a different hope. 00:01:23.280 --> 00:01:25.159 But we are not called to be distant. 00:01:25.780 --> 00:01:27.019 We are called to be distinct. 00:01:28.479 --> 00:01:32.819 And so that distinction should be seen in every area of our lives. 00:01:33.399 --> 00:01:37.699 And so this evening, the thing I want us to think about and the big question I want us to have in the back of our minds 00:01:37.700 --> 00:01:42.000 as we walk through this passage is, what are you living for? 00:01:44.659 --> 00:01:48.460 Over the last few years, I've spent around teenagers and students, 00:01:48.460 --> 00:01:51.540 I've learned many, many wonderful new words. 00:01:52.040 --> 00:01:55.980 And some abbreviations as well, but probably the strangest one, 00:01:55.980 --> 00:02:02.740 and the one which really gives me or us an insight into the world we live in is this. 00:02:03.680 --> 00:02:04.159 FOMO. 00:02:04.640 --> 00:02:06.460 I wonder if you've ever heard that phrase before. 00:02:06.579 --> 00:02:08.860 It means fear of missing out. 00:02:09.060 --> 00:02:17.180 And the definition is an anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere. 00:02:18.060 --> 00:02:19.340 Hashtag FOMO. 00:02:20.379 --> 00:02:22.500 If you're on social media, that is everywhere. 00:02:22.500 --> 00:02:27.780 So maybe you know that feeling when you're scrolling through social media 00:02:27.780 --> 00:02:31.919 and you see that all of your friends, all of your mates have checked into a restaurant 00:02:31.919 --> 00:02:34.560 and you're sitting there and you're getting anxious because you're like, 00:02:34.639 --> 00:02:35.719 what if they're having fun? 00:02:36.300 --> 00:02:38.159 And what if I'm not part of that fun? 00:02:38.500 --> 00:02:40.659 I could be missing out on a great night. 00:02:41.900 --> 00:02:44.439 Or what if you go to that job interview and you think, 00:02:44.939 --> 00:02:48.920 oh no, but what if I get that one and then this other one comes back and it's a better offer? 00:02:49.719 --> 00:02:50.520 I'm missing out. 00:02:50.840 --> 00:02:51.800 Hashtag FOMO. 00:02:52.500 --> 00:02:56.180 Or what about those friends or family who are just about to go on holiday 00:02:56.180 --> 00:02:59.539 and they're telling you about all the wonderful places they're going to go, 00:02:59.819 --> 00:03:03.319 the lovely weather they're going to be enjoying as they sit on the beach with a book. 00:03:03.680 --> 00:03:08.139 And you're sitting there thinking, well, I'm stuck in a boring office behind a computer all day. 00:03:09.199 --> 00:03:10.560 Hashtag FOMO. 00:03:12.460 --> 00:03:17.960 See, this little catchphrase summarizes the state of the world that we live in 00:03:17.960 --> 00:03:20.180 and it summarizes what's driving people. 00:03:20.180 --> 00:03:23.240 People are living for the moment. 00:03:23.240 --> 00:03:26.420 So if there is something big or interesting happening, 00:03:26.620 --> 00:03:29.140 people feel this need that they have to be there. 00:03:29.980 --> 00:03:31.320 Or else they're missing out. 00:03:31.860 --> 00:03:34.659 And that is quickly becoming one of the biggest fears of our time. 00:03:34.760 --> 00:03:36.520 The fear of missing out. 00:03:36.520 --> 00:03:42.740 But if we only live for the moment, then we forget the bigger picture. 00:03:43.540 --> 00:03:46.300 And we forget that our actions have consequences. 00:03:46.300 --> 00:03:51.719 And so people living this kind of lifestyle will happily go out and get drunk. 00:03:51.980 --> 00:03:53.719 They'll happily go out and sleep around. 00:03:54.040 --> 00:03:56.200 And they will do whatever their heart desires. 00:03:57.860 --> 00:03:58.340 Why? 00:03:58.740 --> 00:04:01.240 Well, because you've only got one life to live, they'll tell you. 00:04:02.260 --> 00:04:04.080 And you've got to live it to the full. 00:04:04.360 --> 00:04:06.840 Don't miss out on any fun, people say. 00:04:07.460 --> 00:04:08.720 Just live for the moment. 00:04:08.719 --> 00:04:13.259 But as Christians, we are called to be distinct disciples. 00:04:13.419 --> 00:04:16.959 And the Bible gives us a far greater purpose for our life. 00:04:18.379 --> 00:04:21.420 The Bible says, don't live for the moment. 00:04:21.500 --> 00:04:25.699 But it says, live wholeheartedly and sacrificially for God. 00:04:26.779 --> 00:04:30.379 And so as Christians, we are set apart by God and for God. 00:04:30.459 --> 00:04:33.420 We are called to be holy because he is holy. 00:04:33.420 --> 00:04:37.439 And so this means that our lifestyle will be different. 00:04:37.580 --> 00:04:39.319 We'll be distinct disciples. 00:04:39.660 --> 00:04:42.160 We'll look very different from the world around us. 00:04:42.600 --> 00:04:44.259 So what are we living for? 00:04:46.379 --> 00:04:50.000 Are we living for God or are we living for the moment? 00:04:51.520 --> 00:04:58.180 And I'm not saying that Christians should buckle down and have an attitude of simply getting through this evil, broken world. 00:04:58.960 --> 00:05:01.540 Because we've been put here on earth for a reason. 00:05:01.540 --> 00:05:06.000 We've been given a job to do, but we are to live in light of eternity. 00:05:07.680 --> 00:05:12.200 So we aren't only to focus on eternity and completely forget about this world. 00:05:12.319 --> 00:05:17.240 But likewise, we're not only to focus on this world and completely forget about eternity. 00:05:18.020 --> 00:05:23.300 As Christians, we are called to live in this world, but we are called to live for God. 00:05:24.439 --> 00:05:25.660 What are you living for? 00:05:25.660 --> 00:05:33.860 And the first thing that we see in this passage this evening is living for eternity. 00:05:34.380 --> 00:05:38.200 Verses 19 to 24, living for eternity. 00:05:39.280 --> 00:05:46.160 So Matthew chapter 6, this passage is in the middle of Jesus' teaching blocks known as the Sermon on the Mount. 00:05:46.160 --> 00:05:50.380 And Jesus has just been teaching many different topics. 00:05:51.380 --> 00:05:55.980 And if his followers live according to the things he's been teaching, then they'll stand out. 00:05:56.240 --> 00:05:58.120 They'll be different from the world around them. 00:05:59.400 --> 00:06:04.120 And in these verses, Jesus is telling his disciples and the people listening into his sermon 00:06:04.120 --> 00:06:10.100 that they aren't only to focus on the here and now, but they are to store up their treasures in heaven. 00:06:10.100 --> 00:06:10.600 Why? 00:06:12.960 --> 00:06:15.720 Well, because the things of this earth will vanish. 00:06:17.060 --> 00:06:19.920 Instead, we are to live our lives for eternity. 00:06:20.980 --> 00:06:25.540 And so Jesus starts off his teaching on how to live for eternity in verse 19 00:06:25.540 --> 00:06:29.760 by stating some of the negative actions for his disciples. 00:06:30.439 --> 00:06:31.000 He says, 00:06:31.000 --> 00:06:46.920 The word used there for vermin, the ESV translates it as rust. 00:06:47.500 --> 00:06:53.279 Because the word in Greek describes a kind of consuming or an eating away of something. 00:06:53.819 --> 00:06:58.120 Meaning that all of our treasures here on earth are slowly decaying. 00:06:58.120 --> 00:07:02.780 They can be destroyed and they will be destroyed. 00:07:03.519 --> 00:07:05.040 The things of earth are temporary. 00:07:05.180 --> 00:07:06.120 They do not last. 00:07:07.079 --> 00:07:08.280 And we all know it. 00:07:08.780 --> 00:07:12.019 And so a few months ago, I went through to Glasgow with my mum 00:07:12.019 --> 00:07:16.139 and we were clearing out my grandpa's flat because he was just moving out. 00:07:16.840 --> 00:07:21.420 And so we boxed and we bagged 87 years worth of stuff. 00:07:22.459 --> 00:07:23.620 Some of it was valuable. 00:07:24.240 --> 00:07:25.439 Some of it was rubbish. 00:07:26.439 --> 00:07:28.040 But all of it was temporary. 00:07:28.120 --> 00:07:35.439 We spent one day and we filled my estate car to the brim with stuff for the dump. 00:07:35.939 --> 00:07:36.199 Why? 00:07:38.480 --> 00:07:40.000 Because our possessions are finite. 00:07:41.340 --> 00:07:44.280 They have a lifespan and they can break. 00:07:44.360 --> 00:07:46.420 And when we die, which we all will, 00:07:46.920 --> 00:07:50.759 all of our possessions, all of our titles will be gone. 00:07:50.759 --> 00:07:57.079 Whether you are a cleaner or a king, everything will be gone. 00:07:58.879 --> 00:08:00.019 Everything is fleeting. 00:08:00.019 --> 00:08:06.639 And so Jesus is calling for a complete shift from our former way of thinking of gathering possessions, 00:08:07.339 --> 00:08:12.939 focusing on the here and now and telling us to focus on the things that really last. 00:08:12.939 --> 00:08:18.500 Think of the implications of these verses to the original readers. 00:08:19.060 --> 00:08:21.699 The majority of whom were probably quite poor. 00:08:21.699 --> 00:08:26.279 And so their life would have been marked by living for the here and now, 00:08:26.379 --> 00:08:28.360 worrying about what they should put on the table. 00:08:28.740 --> 00:08:31.279 And we'll get to that in the second half of the passage. 00:08:31.279 --> 00:08:37.259 But here he is saying, do not put your hope in your earthly possessions. 00:08:37.259 --> 00:08:43.659 Because if we base our identity and our hope on our earthly possessions and treasures, 00:08:43.939 --> 00:08:48.960 then we're basing our lives on things that will be gone in the blink of an eye. 00:08:51.480 --> 00:08:56.179 But it is important to note that Jesus isn't saying that we shouldn't have possessions. 00:08:57.500 --> 00:09:01.980 And that the things of this world are evil and that we should stay as far away from them as possible. 00:09:02.799 --> 00:09:06.919 He isn't saying that as Christians we shouldn't care about this world. 00:09:07.259 --> 00:09:09.319 Because God knows us. 00:09:09.519 --> 00:09:15.139 God created this world and filled it with wonderful good gifts that point us to him. 00:09:16.980 --> 00:09:20.379 But Jesus is saying, do not store up treasures for yourselves. 00:09:21.059 --> 00:09:26.299 We aren't to selfishly accumulate possessions for the sake of it. 00:09:26.960 --> 00:09:29.879 But we are to store up our treasures in heaven. 00:09:31.299 --> 00:09:35.819 And people in our world today, they're living for the here and now. 00:09:35.820 --> 00:09:41.580 They're living for relationships, for money, for jobs, for houses and for fame. 00:09:41.700 --> 00:09:43.840 And those are all great, wonderful things. 00:09:44.580 --> 00:09:49.900 But I'm sure all of you have probably heard this quote by the famous actor and comedian Jim Carrey, 00:09:50.080 --> 00:09:53.280 who has a net worth of $150 million. 00:09:53.960 --> 00:09:55.080 And he says this, 00:09:55.080 --> 00:10:10.500 Ultimately, the treasures of this world are meaningless. 00:10:10.500 --> 00:10:15.440 They do not give the kind of fulfillment that the world tells us they do. 00:10:16.440 --> 00:10:18.919 And so Jesus says, store up your treasures in heaven. 00:10:18.919 --> 00:10:25.339 But as I was studying this passage this week, I was thinking, well, what are these treasures? 00:10:25.839 --> 00:10:28.299 Jesus doesn't really tell us what they are. 00:10:28.360 --> 00:10:32.779 But if we look at the rest of Matthew's gospel, and if we look at the rest of the Bible, 00:10:32.779 --> 00:10:40.759 we'll see that the treasures that we have been promised in heaven are far, far greater than anything we can have on this earth. 00:10:40.759 --> 00:10:48.519 The primary treasure and the treasure that should take our breath away every single time we think about it 00:10:48.519 --> 00:10:57.960 is the fact that we as sinful, broken human beings get to spend an eternity in the presence of a holy, good God. 00:10:57.960 --> 00:11:06.560 Our future hope of heaven is the treasure that should make us wake up and praise God every single day 00:11:06.560 --> 00:11:12.340 because we've been chosen, as 1 Peter says, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father. 00:11:14.680 --> 00:11:19.800 That we are being made more like Christ, more like Jesus through the work of the Holy Spirit. 00:11:20.300 --> 00:11:26.120 And that by the obedience of Jesus Christ, we have been made right with God because he went to the cross for us. 00:11:27.960 --> 00:11:29.700 Why did God do this? 00:11:30.960 --> 00:11:33.180 Was it because it's something we deserve? 00:11:34.180 --> 00:11:36.680 Was it because we've earned it? No. 00:11:37.840 --> 00:11:40.060 It is because of God's great mercy. 00:11:41.180 --> 00:11:42.660 And now we have a hope. 00:11:43.200 --> 00:11:44.300 We have a treasure. 00:11:44.440 --> 00:11:50.759 We have an inheritance that can never perish, that can never spoil, and that can never fade. 00:11:51.720 --> 00:11:55.940 A treasure that is securely stored up for us in heaven 00:11:55.940 --> 00:11:58.680 through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 00:11:59.580 --> 00:12:01.000 What are you living for? 00:12:03.440 --> 00:12:08.880 I think that these treasures are also referring to the things that Christians are called to live out. 00:12:09.560 --> 00:12:11.240 To become more like Jesus. 00:12:12.020 --> 00:12:14.620 To increase in faith, love, and hope. 00:12:14.720 --> 00:12:17.540 To grow in the knowledge and love of God. 00:12:17.539 --> 00:12:25.159 To actively work to see people know Jesus by gossiping the gospel in every single day life. 00:12:26.419 --> 00:12:29.099 And to use our money for Christian causes. 00:12:30.319 --> 00:12:34.459 Because that is the only investment that will bring everlasting fruit. 00:12:34.460 --> 00:12:38.240 So these are the treasures that are lasting. 00:12:38.379 --> 00:12:39.500 But why are they lasting? 00:12:40.400 --> 00:12:43.000 Well because they are things that we are doing for God. 00:12:43.820 --> 00:12:46.300 And in verse 21 it says, 00:12:46.440 --> 00:12:50.019 Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 00:12:51.920 --> 00:12:55.080 Friends, this is the glorious truth of the Christian message. 00:12:55.080 --> 00:13:00.420 If you live for God, your life is secure in him for an eternity. 00:13:00.660 --> 00:13:02.060 Nothing can take that away. 00:13:03.379 --> 00:13:07.480 There is no doubt whatsoever that God is faithful to his promises. 00:13:08.060 --> 00:13:10.060 And that he will abide with his people. 00:13:12.660 --> 00:13:16.840 But I want to warn you of the seriousness of not living for eternity. 00:13:16.840 --> 00:13:21.100 Because if we do not live for eternity. 00:13:21.680 --> 00:13:24.220 If you do not live for the things of God. 00:13:24.360 --> 00:13:28.139 And your future is not found solely on the good gift of Jesus. 00:13:28.139 --> 00:13:31.740 Then your future is not something to be eagerly awaited. 00:13:34.340 --> 00:13:39.300 Jesus came into this world and lived the perfect obedient life that we could not live. 00:13:40.000 --> 00:13:43.300 He died the horrible death that we deserve. 00:13:43.720 --> 00:13:46.740 And he rose again proving to the entire world. 00:13:46.740 --> 00:13:48.580 That he is God in the flesh. 00:13:49.039 --> 00:13:51.860 And he made it possible for us to be in right relationship with him. 00:13:53.740 --> 00:13:56.080 If you reject this gift from God. 00:13:56.139 --> 00:13:58.060 The greatest gift in the world. 00:13:59.060 --> 00:14:00.639 Then you too will be rejected. 00:14:03.279 --> 00:14:06.379 Please do not live for anything but eternity. 00:14:07.899 --> 00:14:13.340 Please do not base your identity or your hope on anything that this world has to offer. 00:14:13.340 --> 00:14:15.100 Because it is gone in a second. 00:14:16.740 --> 00:14:19.919 And Jesus expands on this comparison. 00:14:20.279 --> 00:14:22.139 In verses 22 and 23. 00:14:22.279 --> 00:14:24.980 Using the imagery of light and darkness. 00:14:26.120 --> 00:14:26.980 Now a few. 00:14:27.440 --> 00:14:28.480 I think it was last week. 00:14:28.580 --> 00:14:30.960 I walked into my bedroom at night in the evening. 00:14:31.139 --> 00:14:31.879 And for some reason. 00:14:32.039 --> 00:14:33.379 I didn't turn on the light. 00:14:34.039 --> 00:14:38.460 And so you can imagine that it wasn't long before my foot got caught on one of Sabina's bags. 00:14:39.019 --> 00:14:41.080 And I decided to headbutt the floor. 00:14:41.080 --> 00:14:45.900 Now if I would have turned on the light like every normal person in the world. 00:14:46.460 --> 00:14:47.940 I would have seen the bag. 00:14:48.100 --> 00:14:49.040 Stepped over it. 00:14:49.400 --> 00:14:50.620 And everything would have been fine. 00:14:52.440 --> 00:14:53.879 See if there is light. 00:14:54.180 --> 00:14:55.220 Then we can focus. 00:14:55.759 --> 00:14:57.300 Then we know where we're going. 00:14:57.460 --> 00:14:58.780 And we know what we're doing. 00:14:58.779 --> 00:15:03.120 And the same can be said for spiritual vision. 00:15:03.740 --> 00:15:08.100 If our perspective is correctly adjusted on God and on eternity. 00:15:08.959 --> 00:15:12.319 Then our life will be filled with purpose and determination. 00:15:13.000 --> 00:15:16.259 To live for God because he knows what is best for us. 00:15:16.259 --> 00:15:22.379 But if our vision becomes clouded by the false gods of materialism. 00:15:22.899 --> 00:15:26.080 And by the fleeting things of this world. 00:15:26.439 --> 00:15:29.279 Then we lose our sense of values. 00:15:30.279 --> 00:15:32.860 And Jesus says that your whole life is in darkness. 00:15:33.480 --> 00:15:35.759 We cannot see where we're going. 00:15:35.860 --> 00:15:37.500 And we cannot see what we're living for. 00:15:39.120 --> 00:15:41.259 We cannot serve two masters. 00:15:41.419 --> 00:15:44.279 We cannot live in darkness and in light. 00:15:44.279 --> 00:15:48.379 Naturally we are born into darkness. 00:15:48.559 --> 00:15:50.259 We are born as enemies of God. 00:15:50.620 --> 00:15:54.259 But God calls us from that darkness into glorious light. 00:15:55.720 --> 00:15:57.500 He gives us a new identity. 00:15:57.899 --> 00:15:59.179 A new set of priorities. 00:15:59.379 --> 00:16:00.919 A new point of orientation. 00:16:01.519 --> 00:16:03.379 And a new meaning to life. 00:16:04.939 --> 00:16:09.079 So he calls us to make a complete shift from a former way of thinking. 00:16:09.919 --> 00:16:11.779 And instead to live in the light. 00:16:11.779 --> 00:16:14.620 To focus on him and live for the eternal. 00:16:14.959 --> 00:16:15.779 Not the fleeting. 00:16:17.879 --> 00:16:19.139 What are you living for? 00:16:21.000 --> 00:16:23.379 We've often sung the song here at Brunsfield called. 00:16:23.480 --> 00:16:24.839 Take my life and let it be. 00:16:25.759 --> 00:16:27.819 And I wonder if when we sing that song. 00:16:27.939 --> 00:16:30.419 We actually realize what we're asking God to do. 00:16:30.419 --> 00:16:33.199 We're saying God. 00:16:33.199 --> 00:16:35.639 We are willing for you to take our lives. 00:16:35.919 --> 00:16:36.879 Our time. 00:16:37.019 --> 00:16:37.559 Our actions. 00:16:37.719 --> 00:16:38.179 Our words. 00:16:38.319 --> 00:16:38.779 Our lips. 00:16:38.919 --> 00:16:39.339 Our money. 00:16:39.479 --> 00:16:39.879 Our will. 00:16:40.000 --> 00:16:40.479 Our hearts. 00:16:40.579 --> 00:16:41.279 Our desires. 00:16:41.779 --> 00:16:42.879 And our love. 00:16:43.500 --> 00:16:45.240 And we're giving it entirely to you. 00:16:48.500 --> 00:16:52.159 We're saying that we are surrendering ourselves completely to God. 00:16:52.259 --> 00:16:54.319 And his plans and purposes for our lives. 00:16:54.320 --> 00:16:56.700 That is a bold thing to say. 00:16:59.100 --> 00:17:02.060 But that is exactly what it means to live for eternity. 00:17:03.300 --> 00:17:06.160 It means holding nothing back from God. 00:17:06.620 --> 00:17:09.620 Letting him into every area of our lives. 00:17:09.799 --> 00:17:12.039 And setting our minds completely on him. 00:17:12.039 --> 00:17:17.359 Now again this doesn't mean that we focus so much on eternity. 00:17:17.359 --> 00:17:19.259 That we don't think about this world. 00:17:19.759 --> 00:17:21.779 Or that we think everything in this world is evil. 00:17:21.779 --> 00:17:22.779 Because it isn't. 00:17:23.619 --> 00:17:25.619 And we aren't to be separate from the world. 00:17:25.980 --> 00:17:27.500 We aren't to be distant. 00:17:27.779 --> 00:17:28.619 We're to be distinct. 00:17:29.839 --> 00:17:32.359 God calls us to live in the world. 00:17:32.440 --> 00:17:36.119 To live our ordinary lives whilst rubbing shoulders with non-Christians. 00:17:36.259 --> 00:17:36.539 Why? 00:17:37.619 --> 00:17:39.759 Because then we're acting as light in the darkness. 00:17:39.759 --> 00:17:43.039 So if we live for eternity. 00:17:43.460 --> 00:17:47.079 If we live our lives with our eyes fixed on the things of God. 00:17:47.180 --> 00:17:49.039 Then we will be distinct disciples. 00:17:50.160 --> 00:17:51.160 We'll be different. 00:17:51.259 --> 00:17:52.519 And people will wonder why. 00:17:52.660 --> 00:17:56.640 And then we can tell of our glorious hope that is found in Jesus Christ. 00:17:58.779 --> 00:18:00.700 If you're not a Christian here this evening. 00:18:01.519 --> 00:18:03.240 And if you've never heard this before. 00:18:03.379 --> 00:18:06.160 I hope you see the beauty of this message. 00:18:06.160 --> 00:18:10.460 Christianity is not just a belief system. 00:18:11.600 --> 00:18:16.279 Christianity is not just a crutch for the weak people of this world to get through life. 00:18:16.640 --> 00:18:22.340 Nor is Christianity a message of empty hope based on a fairy tale story from years ago. 00:18:23.460 --> 00:18:28.019 But Christianity is the glorious message that God created this world perfectly. 00:18:28.019 --> 00:18:33.039 For humanity to enjoy together in close relationship with Him. 00:18:34.059 --> 00:18:36.519 And even though we rebelled and we rejected Him. 00:18:36.579 --> 00:18:37.759 He didn't cast us off. 00:18:39.000 --> 00:18:40.940 He didn't cut us off. 00:18:41.579 --> 00:18:42.700 Or give up on us. 00:18:43.200 --> 00:18:48.519 But instead He set in motion His grand plan for the people to be reconciled to Him. 00:18:48.579 --> 00:18:49.879 And He sent His Son. 00:18:49.980 --> 00:18:51.119 His perfect Son. 00:18:51.559 --> 00:18:52.980 To come to earth. 00:18:52.980 --> 00:18:56.700 To die for an undeserving people like you and like me. 00:18:56.700 --> 00:19:01.960 And so now we can spend an eternity with God in heaven. 00:19:04.440 --> 00:19:09.720 So how do we live in a world that is gripped by the fear of missing out on life? 00:19:12.360 --> 00:19:14.460 Well we live this message out. 00:19:15.100 --> 00:19:18.279 And we point people to the true meaning of true life. 00:19:18.799 --> 00:19:21.519 The life that we were created to live. 00:19:21.519 --> 00:19:26.759 And we fix our eyes on Jesus Christ and on eternity. 00:19:28.980 --> 00:19:33.839 The second thing that we see in this passage is don't worry about the temporary. 00:19:34.740 --> 00:19:36.619 Verses 25 to 34. 00:19:37.119 --> 00:19:38.879 Don't worry about the temporary. 00:19:38.880 --> 00:19:44.080 Jesus starts off this teaching based on things He's just said. 00:19:44.620 --> 00:19:49.680 And He's highlighting the difference between those who are living in darkness and those who are living in light. 00:19:50.100 --> 00:19:51.940 Those who are focusing on eternity. 00:19:52.480 --> 00:19:54.580 And those who are focusing on the temporary. 00:19:55.740 --> 00:20:00.840 And so Jesus is inviting His original hearers and us to listen to His wisdom. 00:20:00.839 --> 00:20:06.379 To search our own hearts and to determine where our treasure is. 00:20:09.179 --> 00:20:16.720 Only once we have grasped the beauty of eternity and the durability of our unchanging treasure. 00:20:17.279 --> 00:20:19.980 Can we really see the finiteness of this world. 00:20:19.980 --> 00:20:27.220 And also once we see the beauty of what it looks like and means to live for eternity. 00:20:27.220 --> 00:20:28.799 Then and only then. 00:20:29.640 --> 00:20:31.779 We see how trusting in God. 00:20:31.940 --> 00:20:33.839 The one who has given us life. 00:20:34.019 --> 00:20:35.680 And has brought us into light. 00:20:36.259 --> 00:20:37.799 Is the best way to live. 00:20:39.579 --> 00:20:43.019 And it's actually us living out the life we were supposed to. 00:20:43.019 --> 00:20:50.119 And so one of the big things that is coming more and more to the forefront of our society today. 00:20:50.240 --> 00:20:52.099 Is the sheer volume of anxiety. 00:20:52.759 --> 00:20:53.720 That exists. 00:20:54.619 --> 00:20:55.639 Last year in April. 00:20:56.539 --> 00:20:59.079 The newspaper The Independent published an article. 00:20:59.079 --> 00:21:03.079 That explained that in primary schools across the UK. 00:21:03.519 --> 00:21:05.779 Children as young as four years old. 00:21:06.119 --> 00:21:07.259 Four years old. 00:21:07.599 --> 00:21:09.079 Are suffering from anxiety. 00:21:10.019 --> 00:21:11.000 Eating disorders. 00:21:11.000 --> 00:21:14.079 All because they're worried about school. 00:21:15.000 --> 00:21:16.519 They're worried about bullying. 00:21:16.740 --> 00:21:18.380 They're worried about family life. 00:21:18.980 --> 00:21:20.220 And all manner of things. 00:21:20.319 --> 00:21:21.339 At four years old. 00:21:22.619 --> 00:21:24.500 We live in an anxious world. 00:21:24.640 --> 00:21:27.339 And a lot of it revolves around material things. 00:21:28.880 --> 00:21:30.900 Our world is worried about life. 00:21:31.019 --> 00:21:31.819 And what that means. 00:21:31.920 --> 00:21:33.000 And what that looks like. 00:21:33.400 --> 00:21:36.240 Our young people are gripped by this fear of missing out. 00:21:37.359 --> 00:21:39.160 We worry about the future. 00:21:39.160 --> 00:21:40.980 We worry about what we'll eat. 00:21:41.080 --> 00:21:41.680 What we'll drink. 00:21:41.800 --> 00:21:42.519 What we wear. 00:21:42.800 --> 00:21:44.779 And all of that is boosted by the media. 00:21:44.880 --> 00:21:49.600 Which popularizes this unattainable idea of perfection and bliss. 00:21:52.320 --> 00:21:57.300 And so do you see how Jesus' words at the end of verse 25 are so freeing? 00:21:57.299 --> 00:22:00.940 Is not life more than food? 00:22:00.940 --> 00:22:03.680 And the body more than clothes? 00:22:05.680 --> 00:22:10.139 Jesus is saying that your life is not just a meaningless, pointless thing. 00:22:11.419 --> 00:22:13.059 That the world will tell you it is. 00:22:13.119 --> 00:22:15.480 There is so much more to life than we're born. 00:22:15.579 --> 00:22:15.960 We eat. 00:22:16.039 --> 00:22:16.399 We live. 00:22:16.500 --> 00:22:16.919 We die. 00:22:16.920 --> 00:22:22.080 The truth is that you were created for eternity. 00:22:22.800 --> 00:22:24.620 And if you live for eternity. 00:22:24.620 --> 00:22:27.779 Then you know that God is alive and that he is real. 00:22:27.900 --> 00:22:29.000 And what does Jesus say? 00:22:29.259 --> 00:22:30.720 Look at the birds of the air. 00:22:31.820 --> 00:22:35.400 They do not sow or reap or store up away in barns. 00:22:36.019 --> 00:22:39.019 And yet your heavenly father feeds them. 00:22:39.960 --> 00:22:42.360 Are you not much more valuable than they? 00:22:42.359 --> 00:22:47.740 So why should we focus on the eternal and not the temporary? 00:22:47.959 --> 00:22:50.639 Well because God is our heavenly father. 00:22:50.779 --> 00:22:52.359 And he cares for his children. 00:22:53.299 --> 00:22:55.879 He is the one who feeds the animals of the world. 00:22:55.959 --> 00:22:59.519 And he is the one who adorns the flowers that we love to look at. 00:23:01.819 --> 00:23:04.359 God is the one who created this whole world. 00:23:04.479 --> 00:23:07.119 He is the one who spoke the world into being. 00:23:07.659 --> 00:23:10.199 He is the one who sees and knows what is happening. 00:23:10.200 --> 00:23:15.240 And he is the one who gives good gifts to his people and to the wider world. 00:23:16.019 --> 00:23:18.640 So if this is the God that we stand before. 00:23:18.840 --> 00:23:22.340 Then surely it makes no sense for us to worry about things. 00:23:23.980 --> 00:23:24.420 Why? 00:23:25.200 --> 00:23:27.000 Because of who we are in God's sight. 00:23:28.700 --> 00:23:33.580 See God doesn't look on us this evening and see a bunch of cells thrown together to make a person. 00:23:35.200 --> 00:23:38.299 God doesn't look on us and see an insignificant being. 00:23:38.299 --> 00:23:43.899 But God looks at you this evening and sees you as someone who is bearing his image. 00:23:45.799 --> 00:23:50.279 And if you are a Christian here this evening God looks at you and he sees his child. 00:23:52.159 --> 00:23:55.919 Someone who has been called to be different by God and for God. 00:23:56.259 --> 00:24:00.519 God sees you and calls you to live the way he knows is best for you. 00:24:00.519 --> 00:24:06.220 Now if Jesus just stood there and said don't worry about anything. 00:24:07.059 --> 00:24:09.079 Then it wouldn't really make much sense. 00:24:09.660 --> 00:24:13.559 It would be like putting a children's dinosaur plaster on a severe cut. 00:24:15.559 --> 00:24:18.940 Simply worry not worrying about things is not the answer. 00:24:19.079 --> 00:24:22.039 But Jesus continues and he says do not worry. 00:24:22.039 --> 00:24:24.740 Because of who God says you are. 00:24:26.180 --> 00:24:27.920 And because of who God is. 00:24:28.039 --> 00:24:30.960 And because God knows what you need in life. 00:24:32.700 --> 00:24:34.379 Jesus is saying to his followers. 00:24:34.559 --> 00:24:35.940 Don't worry about the temporary. 00:24:36.779 --> 00:24:38.399 Like the rest of the world. 00:24:39.220 --> 00:24:40.759 And do not run after these things. 00:24:40.879 --> 00:24:42.819 But instead keep your focus on Jesus. 00:24:42.980 --> 00:24:44.680 The temporary is fleeting. 00:24:45.079 --> 00:24:46.619 But the God that we serve is faithful. 00:24:46.619 --> 00:24:53.759 So Jesus says rather than pursuing the material things that will ultimately be destroyed. 00:24:54.539 --> 00:24:57.619 Instead they should be pursuing something of far greater significance. 00:24:58.639 --> 00:25:00.439 The kingdom of God. 00:25:02.179 --> 00:25:03.599 And so our worries. 00:25:03.919 --> 00:25:04.619 Our anxieties. 00:25:05.579 --> 00:25:07.339 Of the temporary things of this world. 00:25:07.500 --> 00:25:10.479 Can only be cured by the assurance. 00:25:11.219 --> 00:25:13.259 Of us living for our king. 00:25:13.259 --> 00:25:18.200 Therefore we live for his kingdom and righteousness. 00:25:18.500 --> 00:25:20.259 Which means that our chief drive. 00:25:21.420 --> 00:25:24.259 Should be to live under the authority of our king. 00:25:24.740 --> 00:25:27.000 And to see his kingdom extended. 00:25:29.579 --> 00:25:32.240 Our chief aim should be to see God honoured. 00:25:32.480 --> 00:25:34.359 To see his reign as king extended. 00:25:34.599 --> 00:25:37.420 And for his will to be done on this earth. 00:25:39.039 --> 00:25:42.519 This is what it means to keep our focus on eternity. 00:25:43.259 --> 00:25:47.980 And seeking God's kingdom means pursuing him in life. 00:25:48.259 --> 00:25:50.519 In absolute submission to his will. 00:25:50.859 --> 00:25:53.359 Because he knows what's best for us. 00:25:53.539 --> 00:25:55.259 And he provides what we need. 00:25:56.400 --> 00:25:57.740 What are you living for? 00:26:00.779 --> 00:26:03.720 Living this way doesn't mean we'll always have happy lives. 00:26:04.740 --> 00:26:06.240 Without a care in the world. 00:26:06.359 --> 00:26:07.480 That isn't true. 00:26:07.480 --> 00:26:12.360 But it does mean that our focus and our perspective will be different. 00:26:13.960 --> 00:26:16.099 Christians are called to suffer. 00:26:17.099 --> 00:26:19.400 There is a cost to being a Christian. 00:26:19.519 --> 00:26:20.319 And it is big. 00:26:23.319 --> 00:26:26.339 But the glory far outweighs the cost. 00:26:26.339 --> 00:26:30.759 As Christians we're called to live distinct lives. 00:26:30.819 --> 00:26:32.359 And we will suffer because of that. 00:26:32.619 --> 00:26:34.939 But the price of escaping that suffering. 00:26:34.939 --> 00:26:36.980 Is far too high to pay. 00:26:37.139 --> 00:26:39.139 Because it would mean abandoning Jesus. 00:26:42.019 --> 00:26:45.159 So not worrying about the temporary means not focusing. 00:26:45.559 --> 00:26:48.699 And putting such a huge emphasis on having that bigger house. 00:26:48.939 --> 00:26:50.019 Or that second home. 00:26:50.019 --> 00:26:56.119 Not worrying about whether you'll get that promotion at work or not. 00:26:57.680 --> 00:27:02.720 Not worrying about the temporary things means the day to day things of life. 00:27:03.839 --> 00:27:08.099 But it also means as we face sickness and death. 00:27:08.460 --> 00:27:09.480 We have hope. 00:27:11.000 --> 00:27:13.879 Because our final place of rest is not the grave. 00:27:14.039 --> 00:27:15.539 But it is the presence of God. 00:27:15.539 --> 00:27:20.659 Everything that we see in this world. 00:27:21.039 --> 00:27:22.659 Including our own lives. 00:27:22.980 --> 00:27:23.779 Are temporary. 00:27:26.700 --> 00:27:30.759 There was a missionary family who lived in the province of Assam in India. 00:27:31.220 --> 00:27:33.180 And they labored for years and years. 00:27:33.339 --> 00:27:34.940 And one day they saw some fruit. 00:27:35.039 --> 00:27:36.440 And a family became Christians. 00:27:36.659 --> 00:27:37.559 And they were baptized. 00:27:37.899 --> 00:27:38.720 And then they left. 00:27:40.599 --> 00:27:41.460 And once they'd left. 00:27:41.519 --> 00:27:44.779 The chief of that village decided to make an example of these Christians. 00:27:45.539 --> 00:27:48.839 And so he dragged the whole family into the village square. 00:27:49.039 --> 00:27:50.559 And he looked at the father and said. 00:27:50.659 --> 00:27:52.420 Renounce Jesus Christ right now. 00:27:52.480 --> 00:27:53.940 Or your whole family will be executed. 00:27:56.539 --> 00:27:58.920 And the story was later told to the missionaries. 00:27:59.899 --> 00:28:01.659 And they said what this man said. 00:28:03.099 --> 00:28:04.379 He responded with. 00:28:04.460 --> 00:28:06.240 I have decided to follow Jesus. 00:28:08.240 --> 00:28:09.779 There is no turning back. 00:28:11.940 --> 00:28:14.139 And with those words his children were killed. 00:28:14.140 --> 00:28:16.880 And he wept. 00:28:16.980 --> 00:28:18.340 And yet in his pain he said. 00:28:18.420 --> 00:28:19.520 The world behind me. 00:28:19.600 --> 00:28:20.880 The cross before me. 00:28:24.600 --> 00:28:26.000 And then his wife was killed. 00:28:29.620 --> 00:28:30.580 And the chief said. 00:28:30.620 --> 00:28:32.520 You've got one more chance to renounce Jesus. 00:28:34.080 --> 00:28:34.780 And he said. 00:28:34.820 --> 00:28:36.800 Though none is here to go with me. 00:28:36.920 --> 00:28:37.920 Still I will follow. 00:28:37.920 --> 00:28:43.500 And with that the man was killed. 00:28:46.840 --> 00:28:48.360 And the missionaries went back. 00:28:48.560 --> 00:28:50.000 And what they found. 00:28:50.660 --> 00:28:51.720 Was unbelievable. 00:28:54.259 --> 00:28:56.640 Because the people who murdered this family. 00:28:56.740 --> 00:28:58.759 And the whole town had become Christians. 00:28:58.960 --> 00:28:59.220 Why? 00:29:00.180 --> 00:29:00.920 Well because. 00:29:01.440 --> 00:29:04.080 This man's focus was not on the momentary things. 00:29:04.079 --> 00:29:05.220 It was on eternity. 00:29:05.419 --> 00:29:07.740 And his witness changed their hearts. 00:29:09.240 --> 00:29:12.399 His gaze was fixed on the kingdom of God. 00:29:14.480 --> 00:29:16.819 This family's testimony spread. 00:29:16.899 --> 00:29:18.819 And was the beginnings of the song that we sing today. 00:29:18.819 --> 00:29:20.720 I have decided to follow Jesus. 00:29:20.859 --> 00:29:21.899 No turning back. 00:29:22.439 --> 00:29:23.359 No turning back. 00:29:27.079 --> 00:29:28.859 This is the life that I want to live. 00:29:28.859 --> 00:29:32.859 This is the life that I want all of you to live. 00:29:33.879 --> 00:29:36.459 And this is the life that God wants us all to live. 00:29:38.219 --> 00:29:41.219 Friends if we base our identity on the things of this earth. 00:29:41.279 --> 00:29:43.639 Then we are on a path that is not leading to life. 00:29:44.959 --> 00:29:49.019 But we are on a path that is leading to a selfish existence. 00:29:49.019 --> 00:29:50.419 That will end in God's judgment. 00:29:52.719 --> 00:29:54.979 Jesus calls us to a far greater life. 00:29:54.980 --> 00:29:59.880 And we have the privilege to surrender our everything to God. 00:29:59.940 --> 00:30:01.579 The one who created us. 00:30:01.720 --> 00:30:02.759 The one who knows us. 00:30:02.819 --> 00:30:03.680 The one who loves us. 00:30:03.700 --> 00:30:06.380 And the one who has already given up so much for us. 00:30:06.460 --> 00:30:07.880 By dying on the cross. 00:30:11.339 --> 00:30:14.480 The world is gripped by a fear of missing out. 00:30:16.740 --> 00:30:18.799 Our world lives for the moment. 00:30:19.400 --> 00:30:21.860 But we are called to a greater purpose. 00:30:21.860 --> 00:30:23.380 And a greater person. 00:30:23.720 --> 00:30:24.539 Jesus Christ. 00:30:25.339 --> 00:30:26.519 God in the flesh. 00:30:26.620 --> 00:30:27.539 Who died on the cross. 00:30:27.680 --> 00:30:28.380 And rose again. 00:30:28.480 --> 00:30:30.400 And calls us to be distinct disciples. 00:30:30.740 --> 00:30:31.880 For our own fame. 00:30:32.000 --> 00:30:32.220 No. 00:30:32.480 --> 00:30:33.380 For his fame. 00:30:33.599 --> 00:30:34.700 And for his glory. 00:30:37.220 --> 00:30:38.559 And my fear is. 00:30:38.720 --> 00:30:40.640 That there are millions of people in this world. 00:30:40.720 --> 00:30:41.599 Who are missing out. 00:30:42.620 --> 00:30:43.480 Not on life. 00:30:43.860 --> 00:30:45.480 But on the good news of Jesus Christ. 00:30:45.860 --> 00:30:47.920 And the true life that they were created to live. 00:30:49.720 --> 00:30:51.160 Because they don't believe it. 00:30:51.539 --> 00:30:53.160 And as Romans 10 says. 00:30:53.160 --> 00:30:55.300 How will they believe if they do not know. 00:30:55.980 --> 00:30:57.080 And how will they know. 00:30:57.080 --> 00:30:58.660 If nobody tells them. 00:30:59.620 --> 00:31:01.180 What are you living for? 00:31:02.240 --> 00:31:03.460 Let's pray together. 00:31:03.460 --> 00:31:11.600 I have decided to follow Jesus. 00:31:12.600 --> 00:31:14.019 No turning back. 00:31:14.740 --> 00:31:15.880 No turning back. 00:31:15.880 --> 00:31:19.000 Lord. 00:31:19.000 --> 00:31:20.140 As we live in a world. 00:31:20.660 --> 00:31:21.680 That hates you. 00:31:22.420 --> 00:31:24.000 We ask for that strength. 00:31:24.640 --> 00:31:25.960 And for that endurance. 00:31:26.700 --> 00:31:28.560 To live distinct lives. 00:31:28.559 --> 00:31:30.740 That point to your glory. 00:31:30.740 --> 00:31:31.659 And your fame. 00:31:32.579 --> 00:31:34.419 We ask for your strength. 00:31:34.419 --> 00:31:34.960 And your help. 00:31:35.039 --> 00:31:35.859 To live lives. 00:31:36.019 --> 00:31:36.919 Of light. 00:31:37.059 --> 00:31:37.839 And not darkness. 00:31:38.960 --> 00:31:40.259 Because that life. 00:31:40.419 --> 00:31:40.980 And that light. 00:31:41.059 --> 00:31:41.799 That was given to us. 00:31:41.859 --> 00:31:42.659 Was so costly. 00:31:43.940 --> 00:31:45.299 And we thank you Jesus. 00:31:45.299 --> 00:31:47.159 That you were willing to pay that price. 00:31:50.599 --> 00:31:51.480 For undeserving. 00:31:51.859 --> 00:31:52.259 Sinful. 00:31:52.379 --> 00:31:53.599 Broken human beings. 00:31:53.759 --> 00:31:54.299 Like us. 00:31:54.299 --> 00:31:57.079 Lord we ask that our lives. 00:31:57.159 --> 00:31:58.859 Will be marked by obedience. 00:31:59.899 --> 00:32:01.259 By submission to you. 00:32:02.579 --> 00:32:03.539 And by an out. 00:32:04.440 --> 00:32:05.700 All out surrender. 00:32:06.059 --> 00:32:06.659 To your will. 00:32:07.419 --> 00:32:08.319 For your fame. 00:32:08.839 --> 00:32:09.839 And for your glory. 00:32:10.500 --> 00:32:11.799 We ask this in your son's. 00:32:11.799 --> 00:32:13.059 Holy and precious name. 00:32:13.700 --> 00:32:14.019 Amen.