WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:11.980 The scripture reading today is taken from 1 Thessalonians 5, verse 12 to 28. 00:00:12.580 --> 00:00:14.460 ! Please follow along in your Bible. 00:00:14.759 --> 00:00:21.179 If you don't have a Bible, please feel free to grab one from the front of the stage on either side or at the back near the door. 00:00:22.460 --> 00:00:27.359 Our passage is on page 929 in the church Bible. 00:00:27.359 --> 00:00:28.699 929. 00:00:30.960 --> 00:00:34.079 Hear then God's word to us today. 00:00:35.299 --> 00:00:43.579 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 00:00:44.100 --> 00:00:48.960 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. 00:00:50.079 --> 00:00:52.060 Be at peace among yourselves. 00:00:52.060 --> 00:00:56.140 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle. 00:00:57.040 --> 00:00:58.600 Encourage the faint-hearted. 00:00:59.500 --> 00:01:00.160 Help the weak. 00:01:00.900 --> 00:01:02.500 Be patient with them all. 00:01:02.500 --> 00:01:11.159 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 00:01:12.219 --> 00:01:13.780 Rejoice always. 00:01:14.900 --> 00:01:16.579 Pray without ceasing. 00:01:16.579 --> 00:01:24.099 Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 00:01:24.659 --> 00:01:26.739 Do not quench the spirit. 00:01:27.539 --> 00:01:30.900 Do not despise prophecies, but test everything. 00:01:30.900 --> 00:01:33.580 Hold fast what is good. 00:01:34.260 --> 00:01:36.900 Abstain from every form of evil. 00:01:36.900 --> 00:01:49.040 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:01:49.040 --> 00:01:52.620 He who calls you is faithful. 00:01:53.420 --> 00:01:54.880 He will surely do it. 00:01:55.740 --> 00:01:57.700 Brothers, pray for us. 00:01:58.600 --> 00:02:00.780 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. 00:02:01.520 --> 00:02:06.380 I put you under oath before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers. 00:02:07.040 --> 00:02:09.379 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 00:02:10.360 --> 00:02:13.319 Let us believe and respond to God's true and living word. 00:02:13.319 --> 00:02:13.400 Amen. 00:02:18.439 --> 00:02:19.280 Thanks, Kingston. 00:02:21.919 --> 00:02:22.900 Good morning, everyone. 00:02:23.799 --> 00:02:24.539 Good morning. 00:02:25.659 --> 00:02:26.599 My name is Oscar. 00:02:26.659 --> 00:02:31.319 If you don't know me, I serve at Watermark as one of the non-staff elder pastors. 00:02:32.819 --> 00:02:34.319 That's a really mouthful, isn't it? 00:02:35.340 --> 00:02:38.039 That is, I guess, what I do, my role. 00:02:39.259 --> 00:02:42.759 It's a real privilege to be delivering God's word today. 00:02:43.780 --> 00:02:46.680 And welcome to all of our guests and our church family. 00:02:47.539 --> 00:02:48.180 Can you guys hear me okay? 00:02:48.859 --> 00:02:49.259 Okay. 00:02:50.139 --> 00:02:53.239 Let's pray together as we look into God's word. 00:02:54.439 --> 00:02:57.519 Father in heaven, we come before you humbly, Lord. 00:02:58.819 --> 00:03:03.599 I pray, God, as we listen to your word and this message, Father, that it may come from you, Lord. 00:03:03.599 --> 00:03:09.519 I pray that you give me just the humility and the conviction to speak your word, Father. 00:03:10.120 --> 00:03:13.740 If anything I've said is not of you, please remove it from our minds. 00:03:14.819 --> 00:03:19.299 I pray that our hearts would be soft to listen to you and to receive your word. 00:03:19.300 --> 00:03:23.219 Lord, we want to hear from you today, God. 00:03:23.740 --> 00:03:24.740 Your word is powerful. 00:03:25.439 --> 00:03:26.320 Your spirit is powerful. 00:03:26.620 --> 00:03:27.560 We want to hear from you, God. 00:03:28.380 --> 00:03:33.600 Help us to see ourselves and to see the beauty of our Savior, Jesus Christ. 00:03:34.540 --> 00:03:35.439 We give this time to you. 00:03:35.480 --> 00:03:36.880 We pray this in his name. 00:03:37.560 --> 00:03:37.740 Amen. 00:03:37.740 --> 00:03:37.840 Amen. 00:03:39.020 --> 00:03:53.080 So in December 1914, the British explorer Ernest Shackleton and his crew of 27 men set sail aboard the Endurance from Buenos Aires, Argentina, towards Antarctica. 00:03:53.900 --> 00:03:58.219 But after getting close to the Antarctic mainland, disaster struck. 00:03:59.219 --> 00:04:04.160 Massive blocks of floating ice surrounded and eventually crushed and sank the Endurance. 00:04:04.159 --> 00:04:08.979 And to survive, the crew, they camped on top of the blocks of ice. 00:04:09.479 --> 00:04:15.219 But when the blocks of ice started to crack, they had to grab lifeboats and they stayed on a deserted island. 00:04:16.439 --> 00:04:28.779 But soon realizing that no one would save them, Shackleton, the captain, and a few good men, they grabbed another lifeboat and they sailed 800 miles and somehow found their way in Chile 00:04:28.779 --> 00:04:35.839 and managed to convince the Chilean government to borrow a boat, which they took back and rescued the entire crew. 00:04:37.419 --> 00:04:49.259 So how did this crew, a hodgepodge of sailors, scientists, carpenters, doctors, and cooks, survive 10 whole months of freezing, life-threatening conditions? 00:04:49.259 --> 00:04:57.060 Well, historians write that it was mainly because of the mutual support that this crew had for each other. 00:04:57.779 --> 00:05:05.879 From doctors to chefs, all 27 men worked together to encourage each other, share and care for each other, 00:05:06.599 --> 00:05:12.279 working towards the same goal, the same shared goal, getting home safely. 00:05:12.279 --> 00:05:21.979 So whether we are shipwrecked and trying to get home or we are Christians trying to get to our eternal home, heaven, 00:05:22.299 --> 00:05:24.799 we all need people to help us. 00:05:26.739 --> 00:05:31.319 So as a church, we've been going through this entire book of one Thessalonians, 00:05:31.479 --> 00:05:34.759 and today is the last sermon in this series. 00:05:36.159 --> 00:05:39.459 The church in Thessalonica was a young church. 00:05:39.459 --> 00:05:44.680 After planting this church, the apostle Paul, he had to leave suddenly under persecution. 00:05:45.879 --> 00:05:49.219 Paul sends Timothy, his helper, to go see how the church was doing, 00:05:49.399 --> 00:05:52.079 and Timothy comes back with a favorable report. 00:05:53.319 --> 00:05:56.620 And so on the back of that report from Timothy, Paul writes this letter. 00:05:58.099 --> 00:06:01.039 Paul says, hey, I'm encouraged by you. 00:06:01.899 --> 00:06:04.019 But he also challenges the church, and he says, 00:06:04.019 --> 00:06:08.819 I see you've been loving God and loving each other, now do so more and more. 00:06:09.459 --> 00:06:13.459 Help each other to stay the course and finish well. 00:06:14.099 --> 00:06:17.139 For Jesus, our great hope, is returning. 00:06:18.979 --> 00:06:24.419 This book of 1 Thessalonians tells us that as Christians await the return of Jesus, 00:06:25.060 --> 00:06:26.839 it's a life of active waiting, 00:06:27.859 --> 00:06:31.179 of living to please the one who is inclined to be pleased with us. 00:06:31.180 --> 00:06:34.360 But of course, life is not easy. 00:06:35.180 --> 00:06:35.980 It's difficult. 00:06:37.980 --> 00:06:39.680 Life pulls us in all different directions. 00:06:40.420 --> 00:06:41.280 We have responsibilities. 00:06:41.879 --> 00:06:43.439 We have to work and make money. 00:06:44.079 --> 00:06:45.180 We have temptations. 00:06:46.379 --> 00:06:47.660 And so today in this final passage, 00:06:47.960 --> 00:06:53.300 we'll see that God has given us a special gift to help us stay the course. 00:06:53.300 --> 00:06:56.020 And this gift is the church. 00:06:56.680 --> 00:06:57.460 Not just a building, 00:06:58.300 --> 00:07:00.639 not just a once-a-week Sunday service, 00:07:01.060 --> 00:07:04.160 but a deeply connected community of Christ followers 00:07:04.160 --> 00:07:10.439 who authentically and sacrificially care for one another under God's authority. 00:07:10.439 --> 00:07:12.839 And for you today, 00:07:13.620 --> 00:07:18.639 if your church community is going to help you finish well and stay the course, 00:07:18.980 --> 00:07:22.139 there are three key things that you must grasp. 00:07:22.899 --> 00:07:27.699 For without them, you'll always be on the fringe and feel disconnected from church. 00:07:27.699 --> 00:07:31.039 So let's examine these three things. 00:07:33.459 --> 00:07:35.319 First, how we're called to relate to our leaders. 00:07:36.360 --> 00:07:38.519 Second, how we're called to care for our members. 00:07:39.259 --> 00:07:42.860 And third, how we're called to commune with God. 00:07:45.740 --> 00:07:46.199 You ready? 00:07:46.339 --> 00:07:46.779 Should we dive in? 00:07:49.180 --> 00:07:50.120 Someone in the back is ready? 00:07:50.240 --> 00:07:50.480 Great. 00:07:50.819 --> 00:07:51.459 Let's do it. 00:07:52.699 --> 00:07:54.759 First, how we're called to relate to our leaders. 00:07:54.759 --> 00:07:57.860 Let's look at verses 12 and 13. 00:07:59.420 --> 00:08:00.219 Paul writes, 00:08:00.680 --> 00:08:04.319 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord 00:08:04.319 --> 00:08:05.159 and admonish you, 00:08:05.579 --> 00:08:08.360 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. 00:08:08.839 --> 00:08:10.300 Be at peace among yourselves. 00:08:11.839 --> 00:08:13.639 In this church, in Thessalonica, 00:08:13.719 --> 00:08:17.000 there was likely some tension between leaders and members. 00:08:17.800 --> 00:08:20.000 That's why in verse 13, Paul writes, 00:08:20.319 --> 00:08:22.319 Be at peace among yourselves. 00:08:22.319 --> 00:08:25.159 Because there wasn't peace between leaders and members. 00:08:26.920 --> 00:08:27.939 Paul asks them, 00:08:28.079 --> 00:08:30.379 Hey, respect and esteem your leaders. 00:08:31.620 --> 00:08:34.019 Now before we continue, let's address the elephant in the room. 00:08:34.799 --> 00:08:37.460 History is riddled with bad leaders. 00:08:38.480 --> 00:08:40.879 Politicians who run on campaigns to serve the people, 00:08:41.340 --> 00:08:42.819 but end up serving themselves. 00:08:43.659 --> 00:08:47.939 Church clergy who, under the banner of authority, abuse congregants. 00:08:47.940 --> 00:08:53.800 Perhaps you're here and you've been hurt by someone that you've been told should be caring for you. 00:08:54.700 --> 00:08:58.560 A teacher or a church leader or a parent. 00:08:59.280 --> 00:09:01.040 And so now when you read that Paul says, 00:09:01.140 --> 00:09:02.940 Hey, respect and esteem your leaders, 00:09:03.080 --> 00:09:04.900 if you're honest, it's hard to accept. 00:09:06.520 --> 00:09:10.920 But notice that Paul isn't saying to respect your leaders just because they have some title. 00:09:10.919 --> 00:09:18.459 He doesn't even use the formal title of elder or overseer like he does in other passages of the Bible. 00:09:19.459 --> 00:09:21.659 But he's most certainly talking about elder pastors. 00:09:22.299 --> 00:09:26.139 Those whom the Bible say run or lead individual churches. 00:09:27.599 --> 00:09:32.679 Paul doesn't mention the title because he wants to focus on the elders' actions. 00:09:32.679 --> 00:09:38.859 Respect your church leaders, he says, not because of their position, but because of their labor. 00:09:40.519 --> 00:09:44.039 The translation of the word labor here is a very strong word. 00:09:44.859 --> 00:09:48.939 It's a picture of a farmer getting up early in the morning to water his crops, 00:09:49.459 --> 00:09:52.279 staying out in the hot sun to harvest those crops. 00:09:54.659 --> 00:09:59.079 Church elder pastors are not overlords who sit in some ivory tower, 00:09:59.519 --> 00:10:00.979 barking orders to people. 00:10:01.659 --> 00:10:02.579 They are to work hard. 00:10:03.479 --> 00:10:04.299 Teaching from the Bible. 00:10:05.279 --> 00:10:06.039 Praying for the people. 00:10:06.639 --> 00:10:09.219 And being hands-on in caring for the church. 00:10:10.559 --> 00:10:12.859 But they're under-shepherds. 00:10:13.219 --> 00:10:15.879 Serving under our chief shepherd, Jesus. 00:10:17.219 --> 00:10:21.279 Listen to how Jared Wilson describes a regular day of an elder pastor. 00:10:22.319 --> 00:10:22.959 Jared writes, 00:10:23.099 --> 00:10:28.659 The pastor is a multitasker, not just of duties, but of personalities and problems. 00:10:29.299 --> 00:10:31.019 Many Christians are focused on their own journey. 00:10:31.019 --> 00:10:32.860 The biblical pastor is too. 00:10:33.220 --> 00:10:37.379 But he's also focused on yours and his and hers and the next guy's. 00:10:37.559 --> 00:10:43.539 And one day he might hold a dying woman's hand, grieve in the office with a couple on the verge of divorce, 00:10:44.319 --> 00:10:46.840 celebrate 100 days of sobriety with someone, 00:10:46.840 --> 00:10:52.220 and then go home and laugh with his wife and kids at a Munster's rerun. 00:10:52.860 --> 00:10:54.200 That's an American sitcom, by the way. 00:10:54.259 --> 00:10:55.220 I just learned that recently. 00:10:56.820 --> 00:10:58.639 Jerry, by the way, misses a few things. 00:10:59.340 --> 00:11:01.060 How about preparing a sermon? 00:11:01.059 --> 00:11:10.500 Well, that's off the list at least for now. 00:11:11.599 --> 00:11:12.719 Paul writes, 00:11:13.359 --> 00:11:24.159 And Paul mentions one very specific part of this work in verse 12. 00:11:24.159 --> 00:11:26.779 He writes, 00:11:26.779 --> 00:11:28.719 Elders admonish the congregation. 00:11:30.539 --> 00:11:33.259 John Stott defines admonish to mean this, 00:11:33.620 --> 00:11:36.919 To warn against bad behavior, sin, and its consequences, 00:11:37.459 --> 00:11:40.459 and to correct and even discipline those who have done wrong. 00:11:41.299 --> 00:11:46.519 Now, it's not a harsh telling off to make us feel bad or to shame us. 00:11:47.019 --> 00:11:49.279 It's reminding us of what we already know from God's word, 00:11:49.360 --> 00:11:50.980 to help us to stay the course. 00:11:52.960 --> 00:11:54.620 I'll tell you, in my life as a Christian, 00:11:54.879 --> 00:11:57.199 I have been greatly blessed, 00:11:57.759 --> 00:12:03.600 but also challenged from both mentors and friends 00:12:03.600 --> 00:12:08.699 who have asked me penetrating and sometimes difficult-to-hear heart questions 00:12:08.699 --> 00:12:09.840 done out of love 00:12:09.840 --> 00:12:13.360 to help me see where I have put my hope and happiness 00:12:13.360 --> 00:12:14.980 in something other than Jesus. 00:12:16.519 --> 00:12:18.559 When I have gripped money too tightly, 00:12:18.980 --> 00:12:19.799 I was asked, 00:12:20.259 --> 00:12:22.579 Hey, isn't God a generous God? 00:12:23.199 --> 00:12:26.460 What does your stinginess reflect about your view of God? 00:12:27.139 --> 00:12:30.579 When I was idolizing my career, 00:12:30.919 --> 00:12:31.639 I was asked, 00:12:32.439 --> 00:12:33.199 Hey, Oscar, how about, 00:12:33.980 --> 00:12:35.019 if you didn't have your career, 00:12:35.559 --> 00:12:36.319 what is your identity? 00:12:38.419 --> 00:12:40.840 And so if you're a member of Watermark, 00:12:41.559 --> 00:12:43.740 remember that you have given the elders permission 00:12:43.740 --> 00:12:46.500 to ask you similar types of heart questions, 00:12:46.980 --> 00:12:48.159 because we love you, 00:12:48.759 --> 00:12:51.600 but don't be surprised if we ask you these questions. 00:12:53.019 --> 00:12:56.519 It's a gentle but honest reminder from God's word, 00:12:56.659 --> 00:12:57.620 done out of love, 00:12:58.159 --> 00:13:01.379 to help us all get back and stay the course. 00:13:01.379 --> 00:13:04.580 And so if you call Watermark your home church, 00:13:05.399 --> 00:13:08.500 how can you respect or esteem your elder pastors 00:13:08.500 --> 00:13:10.399 who labor, lead, and admonish you? 00:13:11.639 --> 00:13:13.740 Well, first, listen to them. 00:13:14.500 --> 00:13:16.439 This is Paul's main point in this passage. 00:13:17.320 --> 00:13:20.320 Don't blindly agree with everything they say. 00:13:20.919 --> 00:13:22.179 Test it with God's word. 00:13:22.840 --> 00:13:23.820 But have a heart posture, 00:13:23.919 --> 00:13:24.259 which is, 00:13:24.899 --> 00:13:27.720 How may God be speaking to me through my elder pastor? 00:13:27.720 --> 00:13:30.759 Second, care for them. 00:13:31.639 --> 00:13:32.279 If you didn't know, 00:13:32.379 --> 00:13:34.279 elder pastors have feelings too. 00:13:35.000 --> 00:13:36.160 They have real life challenges. 00:13:36.720 --> 00:13:37.480 They get tired. 00:13:38.019 --> 00:13:38.800 They have burdens. 00:13:39.300 --> 00:13:40.440 They make mistakes. 00:13:40.920 --> 00:13:41.519 Yeah, it's true. 00:13:42.340 --> 00:13:45.360 Have a two-way relationship with your elder pastor. 00:13:45.700 --> 00:13:47.720 Don't just unload on them. 00:13:48.320 --> 00:13:50.040 Also, ask them, 00:13:50.160 --> 00:13:50.759 How are they doing? 00:13:51.660 --> 00:13:52.700 Ask them good heart questions. 00:13:52.759 --> 00:13:54.100 Hey, are you resting in Christ today? 00:13:54.100 --> 00:13:56.040 And most importantly, 00:13:57.100 --> 00:13:58.220 pray for your elder pastors. 00:13:59.180 --> 00:14:00.659 See, our elder pastors are Watermark. 00:14:00.740 --> 00:14:03.860 We need to find our identity in Jesus 00:14:03.860 --> 00:14:04.920 and not in our work. 00:14:05.500 --> 00:14:07.279 We need to rest in the grace of Christ, 00:14:07.340 --> 00:14:08.700 even though the labor is hard. 00:14:09.399 --> 00:14:11.620 We need prayer to walk in humility 00:14:11.620 --> 00:14:15.480 because one of the biggest temptations of leaders is pride. 00:14:16.480 --> 00:14:18.480 We need prayer to experience the joy 00:14:18.480 --> 00:14:19.820 of knowing Christ deeply 00:14:19.820 --> 00:14:22.379 through the labor of leading his church. 00:14:22.379 --> 00:14:24.559 So this is number one, 00:14:24.620 --> 00:14:27.279 how we're called to relate to our church leaders. 00:14:29.399 --> 00:14:33.240 Second, how we're called to care for our church members. 00:14:34.179 --> 00:14:36.799 Let's look at verses 14 and 15. 00:14:38.059 --> 00:14:38.639 Paul writes, 00:14:38.639 --> 00:14:59.279 One of the biggest challenges in the modern church is consumerism. 00:15:00.059 --> 00:15:01.639 People hang back, 00:15:02.139 --> 00:15:04.100 thinking that it's the leaders who do all the work. 00:15:04.100 --> 00:15:06.100 Well, in these two verses, 00:15:06.899 --> 00:15:08.600 Paul urges not just leaders, 00:15:09.259 --> 00:15:12.659 but everyone to care for each other, 00:15:12.899 --> 00:15:14.779 to help each other to finish well, 00:15:15.899 --> 00:15:19.620 and specifically to care for three different kinds 00:15:19.620 --> 00:15:21.320 of fellow church members. 00:15:22.379 --> 00:15:23.540 First, he says, 00:15:24.320 --> 00:15:25.080 admonish the idol. 00:15:25.639 --> 00:15:28.320 We've already seen and talked about what admonish means. 00:15:28.399 --> 00:15:29.580 It's speaking truth in love. 00:15:29.580 --> 00:15:32.500 Paul mentions admonish the idol 00:15:32.500 --> 00:15:34.440 because if you were here last week, 00:15:34.700 --> 00:15:36.040 Kevin spoke about how 00:15:36.040 --> 00:15:39.280 there were church members in this church in Thessalonica 00:15:39.280 --> 00:15:39.780 who said, 00:15:39.879 --> 00:15:41.620 Hey, if Christ is coming back soon, 00:15:41.780 --> 00:15:42.740 well, we don't need to work. 00:15:43.420 --> 00:15:45.560 Well, that was disruptive to the church community 00:15:45.560 --> 00:15:47.860 because people who are idol get up to no good. 00:15:48.620 --> 00:15:50.580 And also, if they're mooching off of other people, 00:15:50.980 --> 00:15:52.480 they're using up precious resources 00:15:52.480 --> 00:15:54.620 that can be used for those truly in need, 00:15:54.700 --> 00:15:56.680 like elderly widows and orphans. 00:15:56.679 --> 00:15:59.299 So first, admonish the idol. 00:15:59.959 --> 00:16:01.039 Second, Paul writes, 00:16:01.459 --> 00:16:02.620 encourage the faint-hearted. 00:16:03.819 --> 00:16:04.779 Now, these are those 00:16:04.779 --> 00:16:07.739 who have experienced significant persecution, 00:16:08.579 --> 00:16:10.639 suffering, or grief. 00:16:11.419 --> 00:16:13.579 Those who have lost a loved one. 00:16:14.139 --> 00:16:16.379 Those who are under immense financial stress. 00:16:16.819 --> 00:16:19.179 Those who are battling severe mental illness. 00:16:21.000 --> 00:16:21.899 And so here at Watermark, 00:16:22.459 --> 00:16:23.819 let's encourage the faint-hearted. 00:16:24.719 --> 00:16:25.699 Let's sit with them. 00:16:26.700 --> 00:16:27.420 Comfort them. 00:16:28.100 --> 00:16:28.800 Pray with them. 00:16:29.620 --> 00:16:32.920 Remind them that even as their heart may feel heavy, 00:16:33.879 --> 00:16:35.840 that Jesus offers to carry that burden. 00:16:39.200 --> 00:16:40.560 Have a mindset that is, 00:16:40.660 --> 00:16:43.140 Hey, when you come to church on Sunday morning, 00:16:43.800 --> 00:16:45.000 have an open heart and say, 00:16:45.080 --> 00:16:47.140 Hey, how can I encourage one person today? 00:16:48.100 --> 00:16:49.580 If you see someone who's struggling, 00:16:50.120 --> 00:16:51.759 don't assume that someone else 00:16:51.759 --> 00:16:52.840 is going to encourage them. 00:16:52.840 --> 00:16:56.480 Make a note to text them Monday morning 00:16:56.480 --> 00:16:58.200 to say, Hey, how can I be praying for you? 00:16:58.920 --> 00:17:00.160 This is low-hanging fruit. 00:17:01.800 --> 00:17:03.340 You see, Watermark should not be a church 00:17:03.340 --> 00:17:05.539 just for those who have it all together, 00:17:05.940 --> 00:17:08.539 but a place where those who are down and discouraged 00:17:08.539 --> 00:17:10.400 can be lifted up 00:17:10.400 --> 00:17:12.900 and encouraged to hold fast to Jesus. 00:17:12.900 --> 00:17:17.440 And finally, third, help the weak, Paul says. 00:17:18.380 --> 00:17:22.540 This likely refers to both physical and spiritual weakness. 00:17:23.360 --> 00:17:25.460 To care for those with physical disabilities 00:17:25.460 --> 00:17:29.700 as well as those who are struggling with sin and addiction. 00:17:29.700 --> 00:17:33.900 So three imperatives to three different kinds of people. 00:17:35.400 --> 00:17:36.059 Admonish the idle, 00:17:36.759 --> 00:17:37.559 encourage the faint-hearted, 00:17:37.900 --> 00:17:39.120 and help the weak. 00:17:40.120 --> 00:17:41.600 You see, everyone at church is different. 00:17:42.100 --> 00:17:44.500 So we need to recognize where each person is at 00:17:44.500 --> 00:17:46.759 and ask ourselves and to pray, 00:17:47.039 --> 00:17:50.779 Hey, what would help this person most at this time? 00:17:50.779 --> 00:17:54.359 John Piper has a prescient quote 00:17:54.359 --> 00:17:56.579 which describes all of this. 00:17:57.579 --> 00:17:58.139 Piper writes, 00:17:59.460 --> 00:18:02.180 Picture your arm pointing to the idle, saying no more. 00:18:03.119 --> 00:18:05.619 Picture your arm touching the shoulder of the faint-hearted 00:18:05.619 --> 00:18:07.259 to let them know that you care 00:18:07.259 --> 00:18:09.180 and are beside them for encouragement. 00:18:10.119 --> 00:18:11.700 And picture your arm actually holding up 00:18:11.700 --> 00:18:12.460 and lifting the weak 00:18:12.460 --> 00:18:15.039 since they need extraordinary help. 00:18:15.039 --> 00:18:21.059 But of course, caring for people is difficult 00:18:21.059 --> 00:18:23.599 because people are messy. 00:18:24.659 --> 00:18:25.859 That is why Paul writes, 00:18:26.319 --> 00:18:28.440 Be patient with them all. 00:18:29.519 --> 00:18:32.000 People don't like being told they have a blind spot. 00:18:32.420 --> 00:18:33.200 Here it's our pride. 00:18:34.159 --> 00:18:36.879 The CG member that you've been trying to encourage 00:18:36.879 --> 00:18:39.759 may be discouraged for much longer than you had hoped. 00:18:41.099 --> 00:18:44.619 Patience is necessary when we care for our church family. 00:18:45.940 --> 00:18:47.259 Well, then Paul goes a step further 00:18:47.259 --> 00:18:50.700 and he writes in verse 15, he says, 00:18:51.180 --> 00:18:53.359 See that no one repays evil for evil, 00:18:53.720 --> 00:18:56.319 but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 00:18:57.879 --> 00:19:01.000 You see, in the messiness of church community, 00:19:01.379 --> 00:19:03.339 you may be trying to care for someone. 00:19:03.920 --> 00:19:06.039 They may just reject your care. 00:19:06.879 --> 00:19:09.000 They may even complain about you behind your back 00:19:09.000 --> 00:19:09.899 and slander you. 00:19:10.519 --> 00:19:15.019 And yet, always seek to do good to one another. 00:19:15.039 --> 00:19:18.139 I'm very challenged by that. 00:19:20.059 --> 00:19:22.039 Now, in no way are we to condone 00:19:22.039 --> 00:19:25.159 bad behavior and sin in the church. 00:19:25.859 --> 00:19:28.339 Paul writes about church discipline in other letters, 00:19:28.740 --> 00:19:30.000 but here he is saying, 00:19:30.799 --> 00:19:32.259 Don't let the offense of others 00:19:32.259 --> 00:19:35.399 cause you to stumble and sin right back. 00:19:36.119 --> 00:19:36.700 Be patient. 00:19:38.180 --> 00:19:38.579 Forgive. 00:19:39.440 --> 00:19:40.180 Do good. 00:19:40.180 --> 00:19:41.820 Honor Jesus. 00:19:43.960 --> 00:19:47.120 And the point of all this, friends, is simple. 00:19:48.100 --> 00:19:50.779 All of us, whether we admit it or not, 00:19:51.279 --> 00:19:51.880 need help. 00:19:52.600 --> 00:19:53.440 Let's help each other. 00:19:55.080 --> 00:19:58.460 And through this sometimes inconvenient process 00:19:58.460 --> 00:20:00.080 of caring for someone, 00:20:00.079 --> 00:20:02.699 may God grant us a clearer vision 00:20:02.699 --> 00:20:05.319 of how Christ cares for us. 00:20:06.259 --> 00:20:09.419 And as we carry another person's burdens and pain, 00:20:10.199 --> 00:20:11.299 may we catch a glimpse 00:20:11.299 --> 00:20:14.099 of how Jesus Christ carries our sin 00:20:14.099 --> 00:20:16.199 and our shame on his shoulders. 00:20:16.200 --> 00:20:18.960 And as we sacrifice our time 00:20:18.960 --> 00:20:20.880 to care for our fellow church member, 00:20:21.480 --> 00:20:22.640 may we be reminded 00:20:22.640 --> 00:20:25.019 that Jesus didn't just give us time. 00:20:25.759 --> 00:20:28.200 He gave his very life for us on the cross. 00:20:29.600 --> 00:20:32.400 Yes, church community can be messy, 00:20:32.880 --> 00:20:35.059 but the messiness of church is not a bug. 00:20:35.720 --> 00:20:36.559 It's a feature. 00:20:37.840 --> 00:20:40.039 Caring for someone who is difficult to love 00:20:40.039 --> 00:20:42.340 is not a hindrance to church life. 00:20:43.100 --> 00:20:44.460 Friends, that is church life. 00:20:44.460 --> 00:20:46.360 Let me repeat that. 00:20:46.920 --> 00:20:49.640 Caring for someone who is difficult to care for, 00:20:49.960 --> 00:20:51.559 that it doesn't prevent us from growing. 00:20:52.079 --> 00:20:53.200 That is part of church life. 00:20:53.340 --> 00:20:53.980 That's how we grow. 00:20:55.460 --> 00:20:56.319 So let me ask you, 00:20:56.860 --> 00:20:59.360 how is your church community? 00:21:00.380 --> 00:21:02.259 Who is your church community? 00:21:03.440 --> 00:21:05.180 Who have you opened up your heart to 00:21:05.180 --> 00:21:06.880 that can help carry your burdens? 00:21:07.860 --> 00:21:09.819 Whose shoulder are you putting your hand on 00:21:09.819 --> 00:21:11.220 to remind them, hey, it's okay. 00:21:12.220 --> 00:21:14.279 Jesus, our Lord, he understands the pain 00:21:14.279 --> 00:21:14.920 you're going through. 00:21:15.819 --> 00:21:17.859 Who are you texting during the week 00:21:17.859 --> 00:21:20.279 to ask, hey, how can I be praying for you? 00:21:21.399 --> 00:21:22.819 Maybe you need them to pray for you back. 00:21:26.399 --> 00:21:28.139 So in this passage thus far, 00:21:28.940 --> 00:21:30.220 Paul has asked the church 00:21:30.220 --> 00:21:32.160 to respect their leaders 00:21:32.160 --> 00:21:33.539 who work hard to care for them, 00:21:33.899 --> 00:21:35.379 and he's urged the church 00:21:35.379 --> 00:21:37.579 to care for one another. 00:21:37.579 --> 00:21:39.980 And now Paul says to them, 00:21:40.299 --> 00:21:41.759 this is what it looks like 00:21:41.759 --> 00:21:42.639 for the church community 00:21:42.639 --> 00:21:44.740 to commune with God. 00:21:47.539 --> 00:21:48.799 So in these next few verses, 00:21:49.799 --> 00:21:50.740 Paul describes this, 00:21:51.119 --> 00:21:51.859 next slide please. 00:21:52.859 --> 00:21:54.379 Paul describes an interplay, 00:21:54.819 --> 00:21:57.599 a sort of back and forth 00:21:57.599 --> 00:21:59.519 between God speaking 00:21:59.519 --> 00:22:01.960 and the church responding. 00:22:01.960 --> 00:22:05.420 God speaking and the church responding. 00:22:05.600 --> 00:22:07.039 God speaking and the church responding, 00:22:07.120 --> 00:22:07.900 a back and forth. 00:22:08.220 --> 00:22:10.039 Let's look at God speaking first. 00:22:11.319 --> 00:22:13.420 Let's go to verses 19 to 22. 00:22:14.720 --> 00:22:15.319 Paul writes, 00:22:15.319 --> 00:22:26.200 Now it seems quite sudden, 00:22:27.439 --> 00:22:28.419 and we really don't know why, 00:22:28.519 --> 00:22:29.319 but Paul, out of the blue, 00:22:29.399 --> 00:22:30.419 brings up prophecy here. 00:22:32.200 --> 00:22:33.179 What is prophecy? 00:22:34.099 --> 00:22:37.039 In 1 Corinthians 14, verse 3, 00:22:37.700 --> 00:22:39.200 Paul writes in a different letter, 00:22:40.179 --> 00:22:41.379 the one who prophesies 00:22:41.379 --> 00:22:42.359 speaks to people 00:22:42.359 --> 00:22:43.339 for their upbuilding 00:22:43.339 --> 00:22:44.279 and encouragement 00:22:44.279 --> 00:22:45.559 and consolation. 00:22:47.399 --> 00:22:48.779 Prophecy isn't necessarily 00:22:48.779 --> 00:22:49.779 about telling the future, 00:22:50.179 --> 00:22:51.159 although it could be. 00:22:51.679 --> 00:22:52.720 It's a word of encouragement 00:22:52.720 --> 00:22:53.720 that God brings 00:22:53.720 --> 00:22:55.079 to the human mind 00:22:55.079 --> 00:22:56.399 to build up 00:22:56.399 --> 00:22:58.439 and encourage the church. 00:22:59.720 --> 00:23:00.839 And in Thessalonica, 00:23:01.259 --> 00:23:02.319 perhaps there were some 00:23:02.319 --> 00:23:03.720 wacky prophecies, 00:23:03.959 --> 00:23:04.799 or maybe the church 00:23:04.799 --> 00:23:05.459 just didn't know 00:23:05.459 --> 00:23:06.939 how to deal 00:23:06.939 --> 00:23:08.240 or respond to prophecy. 00:23:09.199 --> 00:23:10.299 Whatever the reason, 00:23:10.759 --> 00:23:11.319 Paul writes, 00:23:12.139 --> 00:23:12.599 Hey guys, 00:23:13.339 --> 00:23:14.439 don't despise prophecy. 00:23:15.119 --> 00:23:16.899 God speaks through His Spirit 00:23:16.899 --> 00:23:18.359 to people, 00:23:19.019 --> 00:23:19.959 but because people 00:23:19.959 --> 00:23:21.099 don't always get it right, 00:23:21.220 --> 00:23:23.199 we must test the prophecy. 00:23:24.339 --> 00:23:25.720 Is it in line with the gospel? 00:23:26.599 --> 00:23:27.799 Does it glorify Jesus? 00:23:28.439 --> 00:23:29.459 Does it build up 00:23:29.459 --> 00:23:30.879 and edify His church? 00:23:31.579 --> 00:23:32.679 If it aligns with Scripture, 00:23:33.279 --> 00:23:34.699 hey, embrace it. 00:23:35.199 --> 00:23:37.099 Hold fast to what is good. 00:23:37.099 --> 00:23:38.359 But if not, 00:23:38.859 --> 00:23:39.339 abstain, 00:23:40.019 --> 00:23:40.599 reject it. 00:23:41.699 --> 00:23:43.399 And this is the same approach 00:23:43.399 --> 00:23:44.359 for us today. 00:23:45.219 --> 00:23:46.740 God gives His church today 00:23:46.740 --> 00:23:48.139 prophetic words 00:23:48.139 --> 00:23:49.219 to encourage 00:23:49.219 --> 00:23:50.339 and edify us. 00:23:52.099 --> 00:23:53.699 And so if we reject 00:23:53.699 --> 00:23:55.019 this spiritual gift today, 00:23:55.419 --> 00:23:56.199 we are quenching 00:23:56.199 --> 00:23:57.159 the Spirit. 00:23:57.799 --> 00:24:00.399 We are putting the fire 00:24:00.399 --> 00:24:01.559 out of the Spirit's power 00:24:01.559 --> 00:24:02.959 and missing a key way 00:24:02.959 --> 00:24:04.799 that God can encourage 00:24:04.799 --> 00:24:05.599 His church. 00:24:07.319 --> 00:24:08.220 And by the way, 00:24:08.299 --> 00:24:09.000 if you sense 00:24:09.000 --> 00:24:10.059 that you have this gift 00:24:10.059 --> 00:24:10.599 of prophecy, 00:24:11.059 --> 00:24:11.799 be encouraged 00:24:11.799 --> 00:24:12.480 and come talk 00:24:12.480 --> 00:24:13.240 to the watermark elders. 00:24:13.359 --> 00:24:14.899 We'd love to help you, 00:24:14.980 --> 00:24:15.440 encourage you, 00:24:15.500 --> 00:24:16.019 work with you 00:24:16.019 --> 00:24:17.359 to see how your gift 00:24:17.359 --> 00:24:19.139 can encourage His church. 00:24:21.579 --> 00:24:22.299 But prophecy 00:24:22.299 --> 00:24:23.940 is not the primary way 00:24:23.940 --> 00:24:25.079 that God speaks 00:24:25.079 --> 00:24:26.079 to His church. 00:24:26.879 --> 00:24:28.240 Even in the first century, 00:24:28.879 --> 00:24:29.960 the main way 00:24:29.960 --> 00:24:31.339 God spoke to the church 00:24:31.339 --> 00:24:32.699 was His Word. 00:24:33.519 --> 00:24:34.259 They didn't have 00:24:34.259 --> 00:24:35.379 bound Bibles 00:24:35.379 --> 00:24:36.459 like we do today. 00:24:36.839 --> 00:24:37.679 They had Old Testament 00:24:37.679 --> 00:24:38.099 scriptures. 00:24:39.359 --> 00:24:40.439 In Acts 17, 00:24:41.019 --> 00:24:42.019 when the author writes 00:24:42.019 --> 00:24:42.899 about Paul going 00:24:42.899 --> 00:24:43.799 to Thessalonica 00:24:43.799 --> 00:24:44.699 for three weeks, 00:24:45.379 --> 00:24:45.959 the author writes 00:24:45.959 --> 00:24:46.939 that Paul reasoned 00:24:46.939 --> 00:24:47.799 with the people there 00:24:47.799 --> 00:24:49.139 from the scriptures, 00:24:49.259 --> 00:24:50.379 the Old Testament scriptures. 00:24:51.799 --> 00:24:53.179 But today, friends, 00:24:53.579 --> 00:24:54.419 think about it. 00:24:54.699 --> 00:24:55.659 We are so privileged 00:24:55.659 --> 00:24:58.099 to have a bound Bible 00:24:58.099 --> 00:24:58.959 in our hands. 00:24:58.960 --> 00:25:01.200 God's infallible 00:25:01.200 --> 00:25:02.680 and authoritative Word 00:25:02.680 --> 00:25:03.759 that does not need 00:25:03.759 --> 00:25:04.840 to be tested. 00:25:05.620 --> 00:25:06.279 The living and active 00:25:06.279 --> 00:25:07.240 words of Christ 00:25:07.240 --> 00:25:07.940 illuminated through 00:25:07.940 --> 00:25:09.079 the power of His Spirit. 00:25:10.039 --> 00:25:11.340 Today, the Bible 00:25:11.340 --> 00:25:12.460 is the primary way 00:25:12.460 --> 00:25:14.640 that God speaks to us. 00:25:16.059 --> 00:25:16.519 And by the way, 00:25:16.579 --> 00:25:17.360 next week's sermon 00:25:17.360 --> 00:25:18.600 will be on exactly 00:25:18.600 --> 00:25:19.319 this topic, 00:25:19.880 --> 00:25:21.920 why the Bible 00:25:21.920 --> 00:25:22.700 is authoritative 00:25:22.700 --> 00:25:24.299 and the main way 00:25:24.299 --> 00:25:25.140 God speaks. 00:25:26.880 --> 00:25:28.200 So here's an application. 00:25:29.660 --> 00:25:30.779 Treat God's Word 00:25:30.779 --> 00:25:32.519 as precious gold. 00:25:33.279 --> 00:25:34.039 Actually, before that, 00:25:34.500 --> 00:25:35.079 here's an application. 00:25:35.279 --> 00:25:35.840 Buy a Bible 00:25:35.840 --> 00:25:36.680 if you don't have one. 00:25:37.319 --> 00:25:38.880 If you can't buy a Bible, 00:25:39.120 --> 00:25:39.900 if there's an issue for you, 00:25:39.960 --> 00:25:40.600 come talk to me. 00:25:41.680 --> 00:25:42.500 Treat God's Word 00:25:42.500 --> 00:25:44.019 as precious gold. 00:25:45.200 --> 00:25:46.079 Read it every day 00:25:46.079 --> 00:25:46.700 with an open 00:25:46.700 --> 00:25:48.000 and humble heart, 00:25:48.740 --> 00:25:49.019 praying, 00:25:49.160 --> 00:25:49.420 God, 00:25:49.940 --> 00:25:50.480 speak to me 00:25:50.480 --> 00:25:51.059 through Your Word. 00:25:51.539 --> 00:25:52.600 Feed your soul 00:25:52.600 --> 00:25:54.259 as God's Word 00:25:54.259 --> 00:25:54.920 reveals to you 00:25:54.920 --> 00:25:55.720 the inner workings 00:25:55.720 --> 00:25:56.460 of your own heart 00:25:56.460 --> 00:25:57.440 and who you are 00:25:57.440 --> 00:25:58.960 in Christ Jesus. 00:26:00.779 --> 00:26:02.500 So this is the first part 00:26:02.500 --> 00:26:03.140 of the section three, 00:26:03.279 --> 00:26:04.940 which is God speaking. 00:26:06.860 --> 00:26:07.660 The second part 00:26:07.660 --> 00:26:08.539 of the section now 00:26:08.539 --> 00:26:10.140 is how does a Christian 00:26:10.140 --> 00:26:11.660 respond to God 00:26:11.660 --> 00:26:12.700 speaking to us? 00:26:14.160 --> 00:26:14.900 Well, let's go to 00:26:14.900 --> 00:26:16.200 verses 16 to 18. 00:26:17.779 --> 00:26:18.680 Rejoice always, 00:26:19.380 --> 00:26:20.360 pray without ceasing, 00:26:20.779 --> 00:26:21.460 give thanks 00:26:21.460 --> 00:26:22.700 in all circumstances. 00:26:22.700 --> 00:26:25.740 As we hear God's Word 00:26:25.740 --> 00:26:26.559 speak to us, 00:26:27.279 --> 00:26:28.340 primarily from His Word, 00:26:28.880 --> 00:26:29.960 reminding us of the goodness 00:26:29.960 --> 00:26:31.120 and grace of Jesus, 00:26:31.580 --> 00:26:32.440 we respond to Him 00:26:32.440 --> 00:26:33.140 with joy 00:26:33.140 --> 00:26:34.340 and thanksgiving. 00:26:35.380 --> 00:26:36.500 And if you think about it, 00:26:36.600 --> 00:26:37.500 that is the rhythm 00:26:37.500 --> 00:26:38.440 of our Sunday morning 00:26:38.440 --> 00:26:39.220 worship service. 00:26:39.799 --> 00:26:40.759 We hear God's Word 00:26:40.759 --> 00:26:41.940 from the beginning, 00:26:42.019 --> 00:26:42.819 from the call to worship, 00:26:43.580 --> 00:26:44.400 through the Scripture reading, 00:26:45.220 --> 00:26:47.319 and through the sermon. 00:26:48.319 --> 00:26:49.840 God's Word speaks to us. 00:26:50.160 --> 00:26:51.680 And throughout the service today, 00:26:51.680 --> 00:26:52.700 we respond to Him. 00:26:53.620 --> 00:26:54.640 We rejoice in Him 00:26:54.640 --> 00:26:55.320 through the song, 00:26:55.420 --> 00:26:56.080 through the music, 00:26:56.880 --> 00:26:57.360 through prayer, 00:26:57.440 --> 00:26:58.100 with thanksgiving. 00:26:59.340 --> 00:27:00.480 And it's also how we 00:27:00.480 --> 00:27:01.779 commune with God daily, 00:27:02.400 --> 00:27:04.480 outside of Sunday service, 00:27:05.220 --> 00:27:06.140 either in our CGs 00:27:06.140 --> 00:27:07.820 or by ourselves. 00:27:08.279 --> 00:27:10.180 We read God's Word, 00:27:11.180 --> 00:27:12.779 and then we respond to Him 00:27:12.779 --> 00:27:14.880 with awe, 00:27:15.080 --> 00:27:15.700 with praise, 00:27:16.259 --> 00:27:16.860 with joy, 00:27:17.220 --> 00:27:17.880 as we're reminded 00:27:17.880 --> 00:27:18.980 of the gift of Christ, 00:27:18.980 --> 00:27:20.579 always, 00:27:21.079 --> 00:27:22.099 in all circumstances. 00:27:23.799 --> 00:27:24.180 But, 00:27:24.539 --> 00:27:25.920 if we're honest, 00:27:26.680 --> 00:27:27.299 sometimes, 00:27:27.640 --> 00:27:29.579 it's hard to have joy. 00:27:30.099 --> 00:27:31.180 It's hard to be thankful. 00:27:32.940 --> 00:27:33.980 Maybe on Sunday morning 00:27:33.980 --> 00:27:34.500 at church, 00:27:34.539 --> 00:27:35.740 in the midst of our church community, 00:27:35.920 --> 00:27:36.880 it's a bit easier. 00:27:37.400 --> 00:27:38.160 But on Monday morning 00:27:38.160 --> 00:27:38.940 when the alarm rings 00:27:38.940 --> 00:27:40.240 and we have to get up again 00:27:40.240 --> 00:27:41.360 for another week of work 00:27:41.360 --> 00:27:43.299 or in the middle of the night 00:27:43.299 --> 00:27:44.460 when our baby wakes us up 00:27:44.460 --> 00:27:45.420 and is demanding 00:27:45.420 --> 00:27:46.259 a nappy change 00:27:46.259 --> 00:27:48.099 or when the bills pile up 00:27:48.099 --> 00:27:49.619 or maybe when life 00:27:49.619 --> 00:27:51.079 just nails us 00:27:51.079 --> 00:27:52.839 with pain and disappointment, 00:27:53.279 --> 00:27:54.900 it's hard to experience joy 00:27:54.900 --> 00:27:56.240 and thanksgiving. 00:27:58.140 --> 00:27:58.599 And yet, 00:27:59.000 --> 00:28:01.500 this is the will of God 00:28:01.500 --> 00:28:02.900 in Christ Jesus for you. 00:28:04.140 --> 00:28:05.019 End of verse 18. 00:28:07.019 --> 00:28:07.640 You see, friends, 00:28:07.700 --> 00:28:08.839 the Bible never promises 00:28:08.839 --> 00:28:10.160 that the Christian life 00:28:10.160 --> 00:28:11.579 is easy. 00:28:12.480 --> 00:28:12.879 And yet, 00:28:13.399 --> 00:28:14.240 in the midst of both 00:28:14.240 --> 00:28:15.460 blessing and abundance 00:28:15.460 --> 00:28:17.240 as well as during hardship 00:28:17.240 --> 00:28:18.460 and suffering, 00:28:18.899 --> 00:28:20.319 it is God's will 00:28:20.319 --> 00:28:22.159 somehow 00:28:22.159 --> 00:28:23.000 that you can rejoice 00:28:23.000 --> 00:28:24.480 and give thanks. 00:28:25.480 --> 00:28:25.980 Why? 00:28:26.980 --> 00:28:27.480 How? 00:28:28.919 --> 00:28:29.960 Well, notice this verse. 00:28:31.279 --> 00:28:32.139 It's the will of God 00:28:32.139 --> 00:28:34.359 in Christ Jesus 00:28:34.359 --> 00:28:35.259 for you. 00:28:36.699 --> 00:28:37.259 If today, 00:28:38.000 --> 00:28:38.839 if you're a Christian, 00:28:38.980 --> 00:28:39.679 if you're a follower 00:28:39.680 --> 00:28:40.700 of Jesus, 00:28:41.240 --> 00:28:42.539 you are united 00:28:42.539 --> 00:28:43.279 with Christ. 00:28:43.880 --> 00:28:46.120 You are in Christ. 00:28:46.680 --> 00:28:47.759 His Spirit lives 00:28:47.759 --> 00:28:48.799 in you. 00:28:49.759 --> 00:28:50.299 And therefore, 00:28:50.900 --> 00:28:52.180 all of the blessings 00:28:52.180 --> 00:28:53.620 of Jesus Christ 00:28:53.620 --> 00:28:55.060 flow to you. 00:28:56.340 --> 00:28:57.340 In Christ, 00:28:57.940 --> 00:28:58.580 you're adopted 00:28:58.580 --> 00:28:59.480 into God's family. 00:29:00.460 --> 00:29:01.039 In Christ, 00:29:01.140 --> 00:29:02.160 you can know God 00:29:02.160 --> 00:29:03.640 and be known by Him. 00:29:04.340 --> 00:29:05.019 In Christ, 00:29:05.019 --> 00:29:06.420 your record is clean. 00:29:06.960 --> 00:29:07.519 Your sins 00:29:07.519 --> 00:29:08.259 are forgiven. 00:29:08.259 --> 00:29:09.799 In Christ, 00:29:09.960 --> 00:29:10.480 God's Spirit 00:29:10.480 --> 00:29:11.559 is working in you 00:29:11.559 --> 00:29:12.240 to help you 00:29:12.240 --> 00:29:12.980 to please Him. 00:29:13.799 --> 00:29:14.579 And in Christ, 00:29:15.279 --> 00:29:17.140 when Jesus returns again, 00:29:17.259 --> 00:29:18.039 you will inherit 00:29:18.039 --> 00:29:19.519 your eternal home 00:29:19.519 --> 00:29:20.140 in heaven. 00:29:23.819 --> 00:29:24.940 If you're not a Christian 00:29:24.940 --> 00:29:25.420 this morning, 00:29:26.279 --> 00:29:27.299 the blessings of Christ 00:29:27.299 --> 00:29:28.579 do not flow to you. 00:29:30.000 --> 00:29:30.879 But the good news, 00:29:31.019 --> 00:29:31.180 friends, 00:29:31.259 --> 00:29:31.680 is this. 00:29:32.359 --> 00:29:33.400 You don't have to be 00:29:33.400 --> 00:29:34.240 a better person 00:29:34.240 --> 00:29:35.720 to be in Christ. 00:29:35.720 --> 00:29:37.299 but you have to simply, 00:29:38.160 --> 00:29:39.380 but you must repent 00:29:39.380 --> 00:29:41.079 and you must believe 00:29:41.079 --> 00:29:42.000 in Jesus. 00:29:44.539 --> 00:29:46.140 Paul ends this passage, 00:29:46.279 --> 00:29:47.900 this book of the Bible 00:29:47.900 --> 00:29:48.620 with a prayer. 00:29:49.779 --> 00:29:50.860 In verse 23, 00:29:51.519 --> 00:29:52.100 Paul writes, 00:29:52.099 --> 00:29:54.279 Now may the God 00:29:54.279 --> 00:29:55.119 of peace Himself 00:29:55.119 --> 00:29:56.759 sanctify you completely 00:29:56.759 --> 00:29:58.819 and may your whole spirit 00:29:58.819 --> 00:29:59.779 and soul and body 00:29:59.779 --> 00:30:00.439 be kept blameless 00:30:00.439 --> 00:30:01.819 at the coming 00:30:01.819 --> 00:30:03.240 of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:30:03.779 --> 00:30:04.679 He who calls you 00:30:04.679 --> 00:30:05.240 is faithful. 00:30:05.959 --> 00:30:06.679 He will surely 00:30:06.679 --> 00:30:07.619 do it. 00:30:09.379 --> 00:30:10.379 There's been a theme 00:30:10.379 --> 00:30:10.959 in this book. 00:30:12.000 --> 00:30:12.779 Paul constantly talks 00:30:12.779 --> 00:30:14.240 about the second coming 00:30:14.240 --> 00:30:14.699 of Jesus. 00:30:15.339 --> 00:30:15.959 And again here, 00:30:16.019 --> 00:30:16.459 he writes 00:30:16.459 --> 00:30:19.259 that Jesus is coming again. 00:30:19.259 --> 00:30:21.960 This was Paul's 00:30:21.960 --> 00:30:22.559 great hope 00:30:22.559 --> 00:30:24.500 and this is our 00:30:24.500 --> 00:30:25.539 great hope. 00:30:26.839 --> 00:30:27.279 In light 00:30:27.279 --> 00:30:28.799 of the return 00:30:28.799 --> 00:30:29.339 of Jesus, 00:30:29.539 --> 00:30:30.680 may we live lives 00:30:30.680 --> 00:30:31.640 pleasing to Him 00:30:31.640 --> 00:30:32.579 so that 00:30:32.579 --> 00:30:34.279 our entire being, 00:30:34.759 --> 00:30:35.539 every part of us, 00:30:35.700 --> 00:30:36.019 soul, 00:30:36.200 --> 00:30:36.460 spirit, 00:30:36.539 --> 00:30:36.940 and body 00:30:36.940 --> 00:30:38.119 will be blameless 00:30:38.119 --> 00:30:39.279 at His coming. 00:30:41.299 --> 00:30:41.720 Watermark. 00:30:42.359 --> 00:30:43.559 May we stay the course 00:30:43.559 --> 00:30:45.039 and finish well. 00:30:46.140 --> 00:30:47.240 To help us finish well, 00:30:47.319 --> 00:30:48.000 God has given us 00:30:48.000 --> 00:30:49.140 this gift of our 00:30:49.140 --> 00:30:49.660 church community. 00:30:51.099 --> 00:30:51.559 And so today, 00:30:51.680 --> 00:30:52.799 if you are on the fringe 00:30:52.799 --> 00:30:53.420 of church, 00:30:54.319 --> 00:30:55.279 I urge you, 00:30:56.220 --> 00:30:56.920 make the investment. 00:30:58.200 --> 00:30:59.559 Dive into church community. 00:31:00.759 --> 00:31:01.599 Respect good leaders 00:31:01.599 --> 00:31:02.359 who work hard 00:31:02.359 --> 00:31:03.119 to care for you. 00:31:04.099 --> 00:31:05.119 Care for your church community 00:31:05.119 --> 00:31:06.920 and be cared for by them. 00:31:08.400 --> 00:31:09.579 And let's do this together 00:31:09.579 --> 00:31:11.319 as a messy church. 00:31:12.160 --> 00:31:13.480 Let's listen to God's word 00:31:13.480 --> 00:31:13.880 and spirit, 00:31:13.980 --> 00:31:15.420 remind us of the gospel. 00:31:15.539 --> 00:31:16.140 And as we do that, 00:31:16.180 --> 00:31:17.279 let's respond to Him 00:31:17.279 --> 00:31:19.220 with joy and thanksgiving 00:31:19.220 --> 00:31:20.960 because we are in Christ. 00:31:24.899 --> 00:31:25.980 I'll close with the words 00:31:25.980 --> 00:31:26.420 of Jesus 00:31:26.420 --> 00:31:29.519 from John 16, 33. 00:31:30.639 --> 00:31:31.259 Jesus said, 00:31:32.259 --> 00:31:32.960 In the world, 00:31:33.079 --> 00:31:33.879 you will have tribulation, 00:31:34.539 --> 00:31:35.299 but take heart. 00:31:35.859 --> 00:31:36.660 I have overcome 00:31:36.660 --> 00:31:37.619 the world. 00:31:38.379 --> 00:31:39.920 We can rejoice always. 00:31:40.440 --> 00:31:41.559 We can give thanks 00:31:41.559 --> 00:31:42.960 even in the midst of pain, 00:31:43.740 --> 00:31:44.139 disappointment, 00:31:44.140 --> 00:31:44.840 and suffering. 00:31:44.920 --> 00:31:45.520 Because ultimately, 00:31:45.920 --> 00:31:47.280 as we look to heaven, 00:31:47.400 --> 00:31:48.759 we know with great confidence 00:31:48.759 --> 00:31:50.580 that our Lord Jesus Christ 00:31:50.580 --> 00:31:52.920 will be coming back soon 00:31:52.920 --> 00:31:53.900 to welcome us 00:31:53.900 --> 00:31:55.759 into our eternal home. 00:31:57.500 --> 00:31:58.780 So may our prayer be 00:31:58.780 --> 00:32:00.600 that when we see Him again, 00:32:01.000 --> 00:32:01.780 face to face, 00:32:01.840 --> 00:32:02.600 He'll say to us, 00:32:03.120 --> 00:32:03.300 Hey, 00:32:03.980 --> 00:32:04.820 you've stayed the course. 00:32:05.600 --> 00:32:06.540 You've finished well. 00:32:06.539 --> 00:32:07.879 Well done, 00:32:08.399 --> 00:32:09.480 my good and faithful servant. 00:32:10.500 --> 00:32:11.420 Let's pray together. 00:32:11.940 --> 00:32:12.279 Let's pray. 00:32:19.619 --> 00:32:20.279 Father in heaven, 00:32:20.399 --> 00:32:22.579 we give you thanks 00:32:22.579 --> 00:32:24.079 for your word, Lord. 00:32:24.980 --> 00:32:26.539 Thank you that we don't have to 00:32:26.539 --> 00:32:28.819 be in the dark. 00:32:29.680 --> 00:32:30.980 We don't have to guess 00:32:30.980 --> 00:32:31.960 what you're saying to us, Lord. 00:32:31.960 --> 00:32:34.799 You've told us in your word. 00:32:36.620 --> 00:32:37.400 Thank you, Father, 00:32:37.519 --> 00:32:39.420 for the church community 00:32:39.420 --> 00:32:40.759 which you have created 00:32:40.759 --> 00:32:43.400 thousands of years ago, Lord, 00:32:44.079 --> 00:32:45.140 to help us stay the course. 00:32:47.880 --> 00:32:48.519 Pray, God, 00:32:48.579 --> 00:32:51.340 that as we meditate 00:32:51.340 --> 00:32:52.559 on your word today 00:32:52.559 --> 00:32:54.319 and as we allow it 00:32:54.319 --> 00:32:56.279 to gestate in our hearts, 00:32:56.360 --> 00:32:56.519 Father, 00:32:56.600 --> 00:32:57.380 that we'll be convicted, 00:32:57.980 --> 00:32:58.160 God, 00:32:58.160 --> 00:33:00.100 where we need 00:33:00.100 --> 00:33:01.140 to 00:33:01.140 --> 00:33:05.259 show kindness 00:33:05.259 --> 00:33:05.840 and goodness 00:33:05.840 --> 00:33:06.640 and grace to each other, 00:33:06.700 --> 00:33:07.320 help us to do that. 00:33:08.540 --> 00:33:08.740 God, 00:33:08.779 --> 00:33:09.480 where we have been 00:33:09.480 --> 00:33:11.040 hiding our true selves 00:33:11.040 --> 00:33:12.220 and not opening up our hearts, 00:33:12.340 --> 00:33:13.500 help us to do that as well, Lord, 00:33:13.519 --> 00:33:14.259 to be vulnerable 00:33:14.259 --> 00:33:15.340 and to ask, 00:33:15.420 --> 00:33:15.519 Hey, 00:33:15.600 --> 00:33:16.140 we need help. 00:33:17.860 --> 00:33:19.080 Help us to see that actually 00:33:19.080 --> 00:33:21.320 we all need 00:33:21.320 --> 00:33:22.180 to experience Christ 00:33:22.180 --> 00:33:22.840 through the church, 00:33:23.480 --> 00:33:23.620 Lord. 00:33:24.560 --> 00:33:25.440 And as we do that, 00:33:25.540 --> 00:33:25.940 may we 00:33:25.940 --> 00:33:28.799 listen to your word 00:33:28.799 --> 00:33:31.000 and respond to you, God, 00:33:31.420 --> 00:33:31.940 with joy 00:33:31.940 --> 00:33:33.120 and thanksgiving 00:33:33.120 --> 00:33:34.880 as we await the return 00:33:34.880 --> 00:33:36.600 of Jesus Christ, 00:33:36.680 --> 00:33:36.980 our Lord. 00:33:38.180 --> 00:33:39.880 We pray this in his name. 00:33:40.820 --> 00:33:41.080 Amen.