WEBVTT 00:00:00.720 --> 00:00:04.620 Hopefully as you came in you would have got a piece of paper looking a bit like that. 00:00:04.960 --> 00:00:11.179 If you didn't get a piece of paper looking a bit like that, please would you put your hand in the air and somebody will come and give you one. 00:00:11.720 --> 00:00:20.500 That would be particularly useful today, our usual practice at Brunsfield as we anchor our sermon in a passage of scripture so we can all follow along together. 00:00:21.120 --> 00:00:26.539 Today we're going a bit off plot as we do a topical sermon on the mission of the church. 00:00:26.539 --> 00:00:34.679 We started this series two weeks ago with Graham and in week one Graham was talking about the foundation of the church. 00:00:35.159 --> 00:00:50.799 The unparalleled good news that God saw humanity in its lostness, hopelessness and helplessness and sent the Lord Jesus incarnated, born in a stable, we call that Christmas, lived a perfect life. 00:00:50.799 --> 00:00:59.059 Died a substitutionary death for our sins, dying our death for us and then raised to life. 00:00:59.179 --> 00:01:11.280 And we looked at Acts chapter 1 and 2 and saw how the church was birthed through the gospel, how it unites us in the gospel, how it sustains us through the grace of the Lord Jesus. 00:01:11.280 --> 00:01:24.859 And then last week Paul talked about the participation in the church, what it means to be a member of a local church, to participate together in God's goodness to us. 00:01:24.920 --> 00:01:31.020 That God hasn't just given us his son that unites us with him, but he's given us each other. 00:01:31.019 --> 00:01:38.000 And what a great means of grace that is in our lives to live this Christian life together. 00:01:38.879 --> 00:01:41.780 And so today I want to look at the mission of the church. 00:01:41.840 --> 00:01:43.159 I want to start to look at. 00:01:43.399 --> 00:01:45.099 This is a massive topic. 00:01:45.239 --> 00:01:48.000 People have written huge books on this. 00:01:48.039 --> 00:01:53.340 So I just want to give us an outline that will maybe help us think further on this subject. 00:01:54.219 --> 00:01:55.519 What does it mean? 00:01:55.819 --> 00:01:56.920 Why are we here? 00:01:57.439 --> 00:01:58.939 What are we supposed to be doing? 00:01:58.939 --> 00:02:04.060 Why has God given us local church? 00:02:04.140 --> 00:02:05.060 What is the point? 00:02:05.819 --> 00:02:07.200 It's quite a big question. 00:02:07.340 --> 00:02:08.960 It's a really important question. 00:02:09.500 --> 00:02:16.180 Or else we can just kind of go through the motions Sunday after Sunday with no real purpose or no real goal. 00:02:17.500 --> 00:02:20.000 So let me read 1 Peter 2 verses 9 and 10. 00:02:20.099 --> 00:02:21.199 I'll put it on the screen for you. 00:02:21.800 --> 00:02:23.819 And then we'll pray and then we'll have a look at this together. 00:02:25.819 --> 00:02:26.680 Peter writes, 00:02:26.680 --> 00:02:49.200 Dear friends, 00:02:49.199 --> 00:03:06.560 Let me pray. 00:03:07.679 --> 00:03:10.079 Father God, thank you so much for each other. 00:03:10.799 --> 00:03:13.439 Thank you for the joy it is to be your church. 00:03:13.439 --> 00:03:17.919 And so Lord, we come asking that you would clarify our thinking. 00:03:18.639 --> 00:03:19.919 You would enlarge our hearts. 00:03:20.000 --> 00:03:22.740 You would fix our eyes on your son Jesus. 00:03:23.659 --> 00:03:26.219 We pray that what we know not you would teach us. 00:03:26.659 --> 00:03:28.680 What we have not you would give us. 00:03:28.819 --> 00:03:32.120 And what we are not, both individually and corporately. 00:03:32.120 --> 00:03:34.980 You would make us for your glory alone. 00:03:35.700 --> 00:03:36.080 Amen. 00:03:37.200 --> 00:03:39.580 Companies love mission statements. 00:03:40.259 --> 00:03:43.400 All the great companies of the world have a mission statement. 00:03:43.539 --> 00:03:46.060 They have a purpose for which they exist. 00:03:46.159 --> 00:03:48.939 An eloquent, concise paragraph. 00:03:49.480 --> 00:03:53.500 Full of meaning and impact that sums up what they're all about. 00:03:54.099 --> 00:03:55.900 Here are some of my favourite companies. 00:03:55.900 --> 00:03:57.340 Apple. 00:03:59.920 --> 00:04:00.800 Apple says, 00:04:00.960 --> 00:04:03.460 We design the best personal computers in the world. 00:04:03.780 --> 00:04:05.920 We develop the best professional software. 00:04:06.540 --> 00:04:09.360 We lead the digital music revolution. 00:04:09.879 --> 00:04:12.520 And we continue to reinvent the mobile phone. 00:04:12.520 --> 00:04:15.140 And divine the future of portable media. 00:04:15.540 --> 00:04:15.759 Amen. 00:04:18.180 --> 00:04:19.199 Or Google. 00:04:19.340 --> 00:04:19.939 Quite ambitious. 00:04:19.939 --> 00:04:23.399 Our mission is to organise the world's information. 00:04:24.199 --> 00:04:26.740 And make it universally accessible and useful. 00:04:28.920 --> 00:04:29.519 Facebook. 00:04:30.160 --> 00:04:34.680 My least favourite company if you read this morning's newsletter. 00:04:35.180 --> 00:04:36.220 Give Facebook. 00:04:36.420 --> 00:04:38.800 We aim to give people the power to share. 00:04:39.180 --> 00:04:41.980 And make the world more open and connected. 00:04:42.680 --> 00:04:45.500 Whilst making a fortune advertising to you. 00:04:45.800 --> 00:04:47.040 And corrupting your mind. 00:04:47.040 --> 00:04:50.420 Coca-Cola. 00:04:50.580 --> 00:04:51.939 To refresh the world. 00:04:52.439 --> 00:04:53.260 Nice and simple. 00:04:53.420 --> 00:04:54.720 To refresh the world. 00:04:55.620 --> 00:04:56.020 Amazon. 00:04:56.560 --> 00:04:59.920 To be the earth's most customer-centric company. 00:05:00.840 --> 00:05:01.820 It's amazing, isn't it? 00:05:02.040 --> 00:05:04.400 That they know everything that I've ever looked at. 00:05:04.439 --> 00:05:05.980 And send me emails all the time saying, 00:05:06.060 --> 00:05:07.120 You might think about this. 00:05:08.100 --> 00:05:09.020 You might like this. 00:05:09.080 --> 00:05:10.780 It's a real test in self-control. 00:05:11.520 --> 00:05:12.620 And I love this one. 00:05:12.680 --> 00:05:13.120 VW. 00:05:13.120 --> 00:05:20.079 Our goal is to offer attractive, safe and environmentally sound vehicles. 00:05:21.079 --> 00:05:23.939 Which can compete in an increasingly tough market. 00:05:24.399 --> 00:05:27.660 And set world standards in their respective class. 00:05:28.819 --> 00:05:29.319 Nice. 00:05:30.939 --> 00:05:32.740 But what about the church? 00:05:32.959 --> 00:05:34.019 What is our mission? 00:05:34.120 --> 00:05:35.500 What is our mission statement? 00:05:35.560 --> 00:05:37.720 If we boiled it down, why are we here? 00:05:37.720 --> 00:05:41.020 Have you ever thought why we're here? 00:05:42.200 --> 00:05:45.420 Some of us, I dare say, have been coming to church since we were born. 00:05:46.700 --> 00:05:48.920 Do we ever think, why do I come? 00:05:49.740 --> 00:05:51.960 What are we meant to be doing together? 00:05:53.420 --> 00:05:54.480 What is this? 00:05:55.000 --> 00:06:00.680 For why has God so gifted us with and to Brunsfield Evangelical Church? 00:06:00.680 --> 00:06:04.459 Well, I've only just started my thinking on this. 00:06:05.120 --> 00:06:06.800 This is a work in progress. 00:06:07.199 --> 00:06:10.060 But I think it's all to do with the letter S. 00:06:10.660 --> 00:06:16.560 And it is one headline, overarching big S, which is the purpose for which we're created. 00:06:17.120 --> 00:06:25.519 And then five little S's, which are how we're to do that better and brighter and more deliberately in and through our lives. 00:06:26.480 --> 00:06:27.620 So here's the headline. 00:06:28.079 --> 00:06:30.399 Why does Brunsfield Evangelical Church exist? 00:06:30.399 --> 00:06:33.399 Well, the answer I would give is shining. 00:06:34.459 --> 00:06:38.560 Our purpose as a church is to shine. 00:06:38.939 --> 00:06:42.399 To shine in a very specific way. 00:06:42.479 --> 00:06:44.099 I'm not talking about lumens. 00:06:44.399 --> 00:06:47.019 I'm not talking about getting even more lights in here. 00:06:47.719 --> 00:06:49.339 I'm talking about shining. 00:06:49.560 --> 00:06:56.120 And by shining, I mean reflecting the glory of God back to God and out to the world. 00:06:56.120 --> 00:07:06.519 That our purpose as a church is to reflect God's infinite glory back to God and out to the world. 00:07:06.519 --> 00:07:13.939 Putting God's infinite beauty, manifold perfections and matchless worth on full display for everyone to see. 00:07:13.939 --> 00:07:15.939 People wasting their lives. 00:07:15.939 --> 00:07:21.139 People wasting their lives, seeing beauty in other places, searching for meaning in other places. 00:07:21.139 --> 00:07:23.199 And for us to say, no. 00:07:23.199 --> 00:07:31.439 You are missing the all satisfying, all beautiful, all powerful, all knowing, all benevolent God. 00:07:31.439 --> 00:07:35.579 And let us reflect what he's like to you. 00:07:36.240 --> 00:07:38.240 That you might see him for yourself. 00:07:38.240 --> 00:07:42.000 So Psalm 34, David says, 00:07:42.519 --> 00:07:44.660 I will extol the Lord at all times. 00:07:44.720 --> 00:07:47.040 His praise will always be on my lips. 00:07:47.540 --> 00:07:49.019 I will glory in the Lord. 00:07:49.340 --> 00:07:50.860 Let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 00:07:51.460 --> 00:07:52.939 Glorify the Lord with me. 00:07:53.060 --> 00:07:54.740 Let us exalt his name together. 00:07:55.540 --> 00:07:59.579 That word glorify is literally the word magnify. 00:08:00.340 --> 00:08:03.259 And we use the word magnify in two different ways. 00:08:03.600 --> 00:08:06.079 We use the word magnify speaking about a microscope. 00:08:06.079 --> 00:08:15.279 We've got a lot of scientists in here where you take something really small and you magnify it so that you can see it with your eyes. 00:08:15.879 --> 00:08:17.719 It's one way we use the word magnify. 00:08:18.180 --> 00:08:21.259 Taking something really small and making it visible. 00:08:21.419 --> 00:08:22.839 But we use it in another way. 00:08:24.000 --> 00:08:25.240 The way of the telescope. 00:08:26.180 --> 00:08:31.699 Taking something really big that we couldn't see otherwise and making it visible to us. 00:08:31.699 --> 00:08:40.460 When it comes to God, we are taking something so big, so massive and making it visible to others. 00:08:40.539 --> 00:08:43.360 So this is the IC1101 galaxy. 00:08:44.100 --> 00:08:46.860 It's got a hundred trillion stars. 00:08:47.259 --> 00:08:49.779 It's 60 times bigger than our solar system. 00:08:49.779 --> 00:08:54.100 It's the biggest galaxy that we know of. 00:08:54.919 --> 00:08:57.059 But it's a long way away. 00:08:58.220 --> 00:09:04.379 That when you look up on a dark night in Fife, of which there are many, you can't see it, really. 00:09:05.179 --> 00:09:12.459 Until you invite our friend Mr. Hubble and then it becomes big and beautiful and it's reflected into our eyes. 00:09:12.460 --> 00:09:14.080 And that's what we're doing. 00:09:14.700 --> 00:09:22.080 We're taking God's infinite beauty that is imperceivable to the world and we're reflecting its bigness, its greatness. 00:09:22.860 --> 00:09:25.000 His glory to others. 00:09:26.040 --> 00:09:28.340 This is what the heavens have been doing since creation. 00:09:28.560 --> 00:09:29.780 Psalm 19 verse 1. 00:09:30.259 --> 00:09:35.580 The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky the works of his hands. 00:09:36.660 --> 00:09:37.259 It's amazing. 00:09:37.259 --> 00:09:41.080 I went to a faith and cosmology seminar last Saturday. 00:09:42.220 --> 00:09:47.019 And the one thing that they were puzzling over is why the galaxy, why the universe is so massive. 00:09:48.179 --> 00:09:57.879 Well, if it's for that, then the universe is just the right size to reflect God's infinite power, his glory and his beauty. 00:09:58.220 --> 00:09:59.939 It's why you and I were created. 00:10:01.299 --> 00:10:02.240 Isaiah writes, 00:10:02.240 --> 00:10:22.139 Your whole purpose, our whole purpose for living is for the glory of God. 00:10:22.139 --> 00:10:28.340 But because of sin, our ability to reflect that is marred and tainted and lost. 00:10:29.159 --> 00:10:32.659 Like when you were doing your makeup this morning as I was. 00:10:34.240 --> 00:10:39.600 If you move the mirror, you can't reflect as well anymore. 00:10:40.600 --> 00:10:41.559 And so that's what we did. 00:10:41.699 --> 00:10:47.639 God was shining his glory into us, but we rebelled and we always turn away from him. 00:10:47.639 --> 00:10:54.659 Again, we're constantly turning from God and that impedes our ability to both witness and reflect God's glory. 00:10:55.340 --> 00:11:03.720 But as we saw in week one, he sent his son to bring us back to reorientate our lives once again, not around ourselves, 00:11:04.120 --> 00:11:08.740 but around the God who created us, who made us for his glory. 00:11:08.740 --> 00:11:15.180 And so 1 Corinthians 6, 19 to 20, talking to a church, you are not your own. 00:11:16.039 --> 00:11:20.180 You were bought with a price, so glorify God in your body. 00:11:21.620 --> 00:11:23.980 There was a corporate nature as we saw in 1 Peter. 00:11:24.080 --> 00:11:27.779 You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood. 00:11:28.659 --> 00:11:34.080 Or Ephesians 3, now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine, 00:11:34.080 --> 00:11:40.180 according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church. 00:11:40.240 --> 00:11:42.680 Our whole purpose is to shine. 00:11:43.620 --> 00:11:50.560 Our mission as a church is to reflect God's glory, his infinite beauty, manifold perfections and matchless worth, 00:11:51.080 --> 00:11:53.460 back to God and out to the world. 00:11:53.520 --> 00:11:54.340 That's why we're here. 00:11:54.900 --> 00:11:57.080 We even have it at the beginning of our vision statements. 00:11:58.180 --> 00:12:03.660 Brunsfield Evangelical Church exists to glorify God. 00:12:03.659 --> 00:12:10.059 I'm pleased that we all know that really well and got it tattooed between our shoulder blades so we can never see it. 00:12:13.139 --> 00:12:17.419 So if you're not a Christian here today, that's why life doesn't really make sense. 00:12:18.919 --> 00:12:25.059 That's why it is so dissatisfying, so seemingly futile, like you're not getting anywhere. 00:12:25.839 --> 00:12:30.519 Because your whole existence is meant to witness and reflect the glory of God. 00:12:30.519 --> 00:12:36.879 And because of all of our sinful nature, we cannot do that. 00:12:37.879 --> 00:12:45.360 That you're separated from a God, you're separated from God, blind to his glory and unable to enjoy life in all its fullness. 00:12:46.340 --> 00:12:48.899 Because of a severed relationship, because of sin. 00:12:50.419 --> 00:12:52.659 And that's why Jesus came to bring us back. 00:12:52.659 --> 00:12:57.839 So once again, we might witness that glory and reflect it to the world. 00:12:58.819 --> 00:13:01.019 That's why life is so futile. 00:13:02.159 --> 00:13:05.839 That's why life, apart from Christ, is so meaningless. 00:13:07.679 --> 00:13:11.179 So the Westminster Shorter Catechism for our Presbyterian friends. 00:13:12.179 --> 00:13:13.639 What is the chief end of man? 00:13:14.399 --> 00:13:17.259 To glorify God by enjoying him forever. 00:13:17.259 --> 00:13:20.659 And without Jesus, you are unable to do that. 00:13:22.419 --> 00:13:26.960 Our mission as individuals and as a church is to shine. 00:13:27.639 --> 00:13:29.259 To reflect God's glory. 00:13:30.960 --> 00:13:34.639 And so, the big headline, if you remember nothing else from this morning, 00:13:35.100 --> 00:13:38.539 we are here, you are here to shine. 00:13:39.179 --> 00:13:43.059 To reflect God's glory back to God and out to the world. 00:13:44.179 --> 00:13:45.720 But how are we going to do that? 00:13:45.720 --> 00:13:46.879 That's quite a big thing. 00:13:47.259 --> 00:13:51.120 That's quite a lifetime goal. 00:13:52.399 --> 00:13:54.559 So how are we going to help each other do that better? 00:13:54.659 --> 00:13:56.019 Well, it's five little S's. 00:13:56.679 --> 00:13:57.679 And here's the first. 00:13:58.779 --> 00:13:59.220 Spurring. 00:13:59.960 --> 00:14:02.360 Not talking about your cowboy in Westonville. 00:14:03.480 --> 00:14:06.120 I'm talking about spurring each other on. 00:14:06.179 --> 00:14:06.860 Hebrews 10. 00:14:07.960 --> 00:14:11.120 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess. 00:14:11.779 --> 00:14:13.639 For he who promised is faithful. 00:14:13.639 --> 00:14:20.080 And let us, as a church, consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 00:14:20.080 --> 00:14:23.720 Not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing. 00:14:23.720 --> 00:14:29.040 But encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day approaching. 00:14:29.039 --> 00:14:33.980 How are we going to shine brighter for the Lord Jesus? 00:14:34.120 --> 00:14:37.620 How are we going to reflect God's glory better, clearer, brighter and more intensely? 00:14:38.360 --> 00:14:40.599 By spurring one another on. 00:14:41.299 --> 00:14:43.939 By hanging out together. 00:14:44.079 --> 00:14:46.039 By sharing life together. 00:14:46.039 --> 00:14:49.039 The minute we leave this place. 00:14:51.000 --> 00:14:54.919 We're told to glory in a million other things other than God. 00:14:55.360 --> 00:14:57.019 Glory in this relationship. 00:14:57.299 --> 00:14:58.480 In this Apple product. 00:14:58.599 --> 00:14:59.699 In this motor car. 00:15:00.179 --> 00:15:01.240 Glory in yourself. 00:15:01.379 --> 00:15:02.620 Make it much of yourself. 00:15:02.620 --> 00:15:09.139 As we go out into a world addicted to sin and deceived by the lies of sin. 00:15:09.840 --> 00:15:12.820 We're told to glory in a million things. 00:15:12.820 --> 00:15:16.039 To make your life about this and that and the next thing. 00:15:16.100 --> 00:15:18.360 And so we meet together to spur each other on. 00:15:19.200 --> 00:15:20.980 To say, no God, you're worth it. 00:15:21.039 --> 00:15:22.560 No Jesus, you're worth it. 00:15:22.940 --> 00:15:25.039 No Jesus, you are the reason that I live. 00:15:25.100 --> 00:15:30.860 You are the one in whom all my hope and identity and worth and security and future is bound up. 00:15:32.620 --> 00:15:35.399 That's why we need each other. 00:15:36.200 --> 00:15:38.179 Because as we go out into the world. 00:15:38.980 --> 00:15:41.639 Singing our gospel song and the pressure comes in. 00:15:41.700 --> 00:15:43.580 We start to shrink down. 00:15:43.700 --> 00:15:46.759 And so we meet together to spur one another on. 00:15:48.279 --> 00:15:49.620 That we're a team. 00:15:50.840 --> 00:15:52.340 This is like our HQ. 00:15:52.539 --> 00:15:55.100 This is like our Louis van Hul team talk. 00:15:55.100 --> 00:16:00.019 Where we get together and then we go out onto the field that God has given us to reflect his glory. 00:16:00.440 --> 00:16:02.200 And we're spurring one another on. 00:16:02.200 --> 00:16:02.960 How are we doing that? 00:16:03.000 --> 00:16:04.000 We're reading God's word. 00:16:04.320 --> 00:16:08.259 We're learning more about this God of infinite beauty and matchless worth. 00:16:08.280 --> 00:16:09.600 So we might love him more. 00:16:10.860 --> 00:16:13.400 As we learn more of him, we love him. 00:16:13.580 --> 00:16:15.400 As we love him, we live for him. 00:16:15.440 --> 00:16:17.220 And it's this most virtuous circle. 00:16:17.740 --> 00:16:20.240 We sing together declaring his praises. 00:16:21.360 --> 00:16:22.960 How great is our God. 00:16:24.000 --> 00:16:24.840 Sing with me. 00:16:25.200 --> 00:16:26.120 How great. 00:16:26.120 --> 00:16:28.779 How great is our God. 00:16:31.139 --> 00:16:33.759 We do what they say in Colossians 3. 00:16:35.759 --> 00:16:40.820 Teaching and admonishing one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. 00:16:42.039 --> 00:16:45.360 Singing to God with gratitude in our hearts. 00:16:45.500 --> 00:16:46.740 We pray together. 00:16:46.740 --> 00:16:49.399 Declaring our reliance on God. 00:16:49.399 --> 00:16:50.919 Our thankfulness to God. 00:16:51.320 --> 00:16:54.820 Our asking him that he would be even kinder to us. 00:16:55.480 --> 00:16:59.120 And give us all that we need that we might shine for his glory. 00:16:59.120 --> 00:17:03.159 And we do it as we meet over coffee and tea and in a pew. 00:17:04.259 --> 00:17:06.779 That we ask, how are you doing? 00:17:07.240 --> 00:17:08.279 And not just fine. 00:17:10.480 --> 00:17:14.279 How are you doing in your ability to reflect God's glory to the world? 00:17:14.380 --> 00:17:15.420 Well, shall we pray together? 00:17:16.220 --> 00:17:18.140 Our overall purpose is shining. 00:17:19.220 --> 00:17:21.500 And we do it by spurring one other up. 00:17:21.980 --> 00:17:24.079 By this being a hotbed of encouragement. 00:17:24.079 --> 00:17:29.599 That we might go out into a hostile world to live differently. 00:17:30.799 --> 00:17:32.500 Secondly, sharing. 00:17:33.439 --> 00:17:37.139 Sharing that as those that have witnessed God's glory. 00:17:37.799 --> 00:17:39.839 And the meaning and purpose. 00:17:40.859 --> 00:17:45.019 And satisfaction we get from him that we can't find anywhere else. 00:17:45.139 --> 00:17:46.659 We tell others about him. 00:17:47.519 --> 00:17:50.599 We seek to share this message. 00:17:50.599 --> 00:17:54.199 That has a complete monopoly on eternal life. 00:17:54.319 --> 00:17:55.639 No one else has got this. 00:17:55.740 --> 00:17:56.619 Except Jesus. 00:17:57.459 --> 00:17:58.240 And the gospel. 00:17:59.240 --> 00:18:02.419 There are hundreds of thousands of people in this city. 00:18:02.699 --> 00:18:04.779 Without God and without hope in the world. 00:18:04.859 --> 00:18:06.099 Because they're without Christ. 00:18:06.679 --> 00:18:08.199 They know nothing of this gospel. 00:18:09.219 --> 00:18:12.500 These people would have spent longer deciding what they were going to have for breakfast. 00:18:12.639 --> 00:18:15.139 Than their eternal standing before our holy gods. 00:18:16.219 --> 00:18:20.339 And so God has appointed us to be those that share this message. 00:18:21.559 --> 00:18:23.179 That as we reflect that glory. 00:18:23.619 --> 00:18:28.819 We invite them to witness that glory through the good news of Jesus. 00:18:30.199 --> 00:18:31.779 And as more people gather together. 00:18:31.859 --> 00:18:35.079 Do you see how more intensely God's glory is reflected to the world. 00:18:36.480 --> 00:18:38.839 And so that most classic verse in Matthew 28. 00:18:40.740 --> 00:18:43.240 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations. 00:18:43.459 --> 00:18:46.079 Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son. 00:18:46.480 --> 00:18:47.519 And of the Holy Spirit. 00:18:47.639 --> 00:18:50.119 And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. 00:18:50.119 --> 00:18:55.019 And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. 00:18:55.099 --> 00:18:58.959 The God ordained means of people being made into disciples. 00:19:00.079 --> 00:19:03.219 Is you and me sharing that great news. 00:19:03.339 --> 00:19:04.719 That glorious message. 00:19:05.359 --> 00:19:06.579 With others. 00:19:06.579 --> 00:19:09.299 As we share and they believe. 00:19:09.639 --> 00:19:12.859 There are more people to shine and reflect God's infinite glory. 00:19:13.099 --> 00:19:13.679 Back to him. 00:19:14.419 --> 00:19:15.399 And out to the world. 00:19:16.679 --> 00:19:17.119 Thirdly. 00:19:18.179 --> 00:19:19.599 It's not just spurring. 00:19:19.720 --> 00:19:20.599 It's not just sharing. 00:19:20.759 --> 00:19:22.500 But it's also sending. 00:19:22.500 --> 00:19:25.500 We must always remember. 00:19:25.720 --> 00:19:27.339 We must always lift our eyes. 00:19:27.480 --> 00:19:29.240 And stretch our field of vision. 00:19:29.339 --> 00:19:31.259 That our God is not some tribal deity. 00:19:32.599 --> 00:19:34.539 He is not just the God of Edinburgh. 00:19:34.880 --> 00:19:36.839 He is the God of the entire world. 00:19:37.480 --> 00:19:38.700 Who sent his son. 00:19:38.779 --> 00:19:41.500 That the entire world might have hope and life. 00:19:41.720 --> 00:19:42.880 Through his son Jesus. 00:19:42.880 --> 00:19:44.780 He is the creator. 00:19:44.780 --> 00:19:46.660 Who flung stars into space. 00:19:46.660 --> 00:19:49.760 Who sits enthroned over the circle of the earth. 00:19:50.640 --> 00:19:52.740 Who desires that news of his son. 00:19:53.060 --> 00:19:56.660 Reach every tribe and tongue and nation of the world. 00:19:57.720 --> 00:19:59.700 That they too might witness. 00:20:00.280 --> 00:20:02.620 And be fully satisfied by his glory. 00:20:04.220 --> 00:20:08.040 So Matthew 24 talks about a glacier of coldness. 00:20:08.039 --> 00:20:10.599 Because of the increase of wickedness. 00:20:10.740 --> 00:20:12.960 The love of most will grow cold. 00:20:13.859 --> 00:20:16.619 But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 00:20:17.139 --> 00:20:20.700 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world. 00:20:21.019 --> 00:20:22.960 As a testimony to all nations. 00:20:23.079 --> 00:20:24.099 And then the end will come. 00:20:24.579 --> 00:20:26.399 See what's going on in that verse. 00:20:26.779 --> 00:20:27.279 That there is. 00:20:27.460 --> 00:20:28.299 As time goes on. 00:20:28.339 --> 00:20:29.539 There's a coldness. 00:20:29.899 --> 00:20:32.720 A glacier of hostility towards God growing. 00:20:33.480 --> 00:20:34.619 But not everywhere. 00:20:36.059 --> 00:20:37.539 Because the second half says. 00:20:37.539 --> 00:20:39.019 And the gospel will be preached. 00:20:39.119 --> 00:20:41.659 There will be people going to torch that glacier. 00:20:42.319 --> 00:20:45.240 Going to share that good news. 00:20:45.339 --> 00:20:48.099 To bring them into the burning presence of God. 00:20:48.319 --> 00:20:49.500 Through the Lord Jesus. 00:20:50.960 --> 00:20:53.639 That it will be preached to all nations. 00:20:54.519 --> 00:20:57.079 It's not just sharing with our friends. 00:20:57.279 --> 00:20:58.980 And those in our lives. 00:20:59.379 --> 00:21:02.159 But it's about being committed to God's global mission. 00:21:03.000 --> 00:21:05.399 And being prepared to go where he sends. 00:21:05.399 --> 00:21:06.980 To say what he wants. 00:21:06.980 --> 00:21:10.779 To do what he desires amongst whomever he chooses. 00:21:12.039 --> 00:21:14.599 John Piper talks about three types of people. 00:21:14.759 --> 00:21:15.539 There are goers. 00:21:16.039 --> 00:21:17.279 There are senders. 00:21:17.740 --> 00:21:19.380 And there are those that are disobedient. 00:21:19.480 --> 00:21:20.279 It's not an option. 00:21:21.240 --> 00:21:24.839 Mission is not for the elite crack team of Christians. 00:21:25.019 --> 00:21:26.220 It's for his church. 00:21:26.360 --> 00:21:29.360 That his glory might shine out into all the world. 00:21:29.359 --> 00:21:33.519 And the fame of his son might be broadcast from east to west. 00:21:35.699 --> 00:21:37.859 Just imagine what it would look like. 00:21:39.419 --> 00:21:42.979 For God's glory to be reflected back to him. 00:21:43.039 --> 00:21:44.259 And out to the world in Sudan. 00:21:44.779 --> 00:21:45.479 And Yemen. 00:21:45.799 --> 00:21:46.599 And Pakistan. 00:21:46.899 --> 00:21:47.679 And North Korea. 00:21:47.839 --> 00:21:48.259 And Laos. 00:21:48.339 --> 00:21:49.119 And Tajikistan. 00:21:49.479 --> 00:21:50.599 And France. 00:21:50.699 --> 00:21:51.419 And Belgium. 00:21:51.599 --> 00:21:52.899 In greater intensity. 00:21:52.900 --> 00:21:56.000 With greater clarity. 00:21:56.000 --> 00:21:58.600 So that God might be glorified fully. 00:21:59.280 --> 00:22:01.720 There is spurring and sharing and sending. 00:22:02.380 --> 00:22:05.040 And then fourthly there is subverting. 00:22:06.320 --> 00:22:06.920 Subverting. 00:22:07.080 --> 00:22:08.300 Living differently. 00:22:09.140 --> 00:22:12.140 Living alternatively to the drumbeat of the world. 00:22:12.800 --> 00:22:15.600 Living as those that have been saved from ourself. 00:22:15.599 --> 00:22:17.859 To worship the true and living God. 00:22:17.919 --> 00:22:18.599 Who are freed. 00:22:19.079 --> 00:22:20.959 We don't need to make much of ourselves. 00:22:20.959 --> 00:22:22.839 Because Jesus has saved us. 00:22:22.879 --> 00:22:24.519 We don't need to try and be a success. 00:22:24.519 --> 00:22:26.019 Because Jesus is a success. 00:22:26.599 --> 00:22:28.819 We don't need to try and prolong our own lives. 00:22:28.879 --> 00:22:31.759 Because Jesus holds our lives in his hands. 00:22:33.939 --> 00:22:37.519 And therefore we're free to subvert the way of the world. 00:22:37.740 --> 00:22:39.339 That says it's all about me. 00:22:39.599 --> 00:22:41.259 We can actually say it's all about him. 00:22:42.699 --> 00:22:44.319 We can live life differently. 00:22:44.519 --> 00:22:45.579 Loving the unlovable. 00:22:45.599 --> 00:22:46.599 Loving the unlovable. 00:22:47.219 --> 00:22:48.619 Giving sacrificially. 00:22:48.740 --> 00:22:49.980 Knowing that he who gives. 00:22:50.059 --> 00:22:50.899 Gives in abundance. 00:22:53.859 --> 00:22:56.599 It's what Peter was talking about in our opening reading. 00:22:59.119 --> 00:23:01.000 Live such good lives. 00:23:01.679 --> 00:23:02.679 But in your hearts. 00:23:03.319 --> 00:23:04.779 Revere Christ as Lord. 00:23:05.099 --> 00:23:07.959 Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you. 00:23:08.039 --> 00:23:09.759 To give a reason for the hope that you have. 00:23:10.039 --> 00:23:12.019 As you live with Christ Jesus as Lord. 00:23:12.079 --> 00:23:12.819 You look different. 00:23:14.000 --> 00:23:15.019 You look different. 00:23:15.019 --> 00:23:16.619 And people are provoked to ask. 00:23:16.900 --> 00:23:18.700 Where does your hope come from? 00:23:21.400 --> 00:23:24.019 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable. 00:23:24.639 --> 00:23:27.099 So that when they speak against you as evil do. 00:23:27.180 --> 00:23:28.680 As they may see your good deeds. 00:23:28.759 --> 00:23:31.400 And glorify God on the day he visits. 00:23:32.200 --> 00:23:33.180 Living differently. 00:23:33.599 --> 00:23:35.079 Subverting the way of the world. 00:23:35.079 --> 00:23:37.259 As those that are not their own. 00:23:37.259 --> 00:23:39.199 As those that are bought at a price. 00:23:40.539 --> 00:23:40.980 Shining. 00:23:42.399 --> 00:23:44.119 Through spurring one another on. 00:23:44.240 --> 00:23:45.639 Sharing this good news with others. 00:23:45.819 --> 00:23:48.619 Sending people to the far corners of the earth. 00:23:48.699 --> 00:23:50.839 And subverting the way the world does life. 00:23:51.179 --> 00:23:54.500 As those that have been saved to live a better way. 00:23:54.740 --> 00:23:55.500 And then lastly. 00:23:56.259 --> 00:23:56.740 Suffering. 00:23:56.740 --> 00:23:57.539 Reflecting. 00:23:59.220 --> 00:23:59.740 Reflecting. 00:23:59.960 --> 00:24:02.220 And living for God's glory in a dark world. 00:24:02.279 --> 00:24:04.480 Is a difficult costly task. 00:24:04.480 --> 00:24:07.339 It's not popular. 00:24:08.339 --> 00:24:11.620 I think we're all aware that the air is turning more toxic. 00:24:12.259 --> 00:24:15.480 And to love and live for and speak up for the Lord Jesus. 00:24:15.740 --> 00:24:17.740 Is becoming ever more unpopular. 00:24:19.200 --> 00:24:20.839 As social norms. 00:24:20.940 --> 00:24:22.519 Shifts in popular opinion. 00:24:23.299 --> 00:24:24.480 Pluralistic leanings. 00:24:25.559 --> 00:24:27.900 As the remnants of our cultural Christianity. 00:24:28.140 --> 00:24:30.120 Disappear over the horizon of history. 00:24:30.119 --> 00:24:31.479 In this country. 00:24:31.659 --> 00:24:33.239 It's growing increasingly difficult. 00:24:34.039 --> 00:24:35.539 To reflect God's glory. 00:24:35.659 --> 00:24:36.259 Back to him. 00:24:36.319 --> 00:24:37.359 And out to the world. 00:24:38.759 --> 00:24:40.699 Because the world would have us sit down. 00:24:40.819 --> 00:24:42.199 And stay quiet. 00:24:43.519 --> 00:24:44.539 But do you see. 00:24:44.639 --> 00:24:45.859 That even when it's tough. 00:24:46.219 --> 00:24:47.639 Even when suffering comes. 00:24:47.679 --> 00:24:48.799 If we cling to Jesus. 00:24:49.959 --> 00:24:51.219 If we cling to him. 00:24:51.259 --> 00:24:52.979 It only shows him to be more valuable. 00:24:53.779 --> 00:24:55.359 That when it really costs us. 00:24:55.439 --> 00:24:55.899 And say no. 00:24:55.959 --> 00:24:57.219 We will not let go. 00:24:58.219 --> 00:24:59.379 Then that only proves. 00:24:59.380 --> 00:25:00.900 To make him look even better. 00:25:01.560 --> 00:25:03.580 And even more glorious. 00:25:04.920 --> 00:25:06.880 To seek to shine brightly for Jesus. 00:25:06.880 --> 00:25:08.740 In every area of our lives. 00:25:08.740 --> 00:25:12.060 Is increasingly to paint a target on our backs. 00:25:12.520 --> 00:25:13.560 But as we go out. 00:25:13.900 --> 00:25:14.460 Knowing. 00:25:15.200 --> 00:25:17.880 That Jesus wins in the end. 00:25:18.780 --> 00:25:19.800 Knowing that. 00:25:20.680 --> 00:25:22.480 And paying the cost. 00:25:22.600 --> 00:25:24.080 And clinging to him anyway. 00:25:24.440 --> 00:25:25.320 We show that actually. 00:25:25.460 --> 00:25:27.220 He's of the greatest value in our lives. 00:25:27.220 --> 00:25:30.920 It just causes us to shine brighter. 00:25:31.779 --> 00:25:33.400 And so Paul can write to the Romans. 00:25:33.400 --> 00:25:35.279 Who were facing severe persecution. 00:25:36.220 --> 00:25:38.559 Therefore since we have been justified through faith. 00:25:38.920 --> 00:25:40.339 We have peace with God. 00:25:40.460 --> 00:25:42.039 Through our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:25:42.420 --> 00:25:45.180 Through whom we have gained access by faith. 00:25:45.220 --> 00:25:47.339 Into this grace in which we now stand. 00:25:48.140 --> 00:25:50.660 And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 00:25:50.660 --> 00:25:52.060 Not only so. 00:25:52.180 --> 00:25:53.360 But we also glory. 00:25:53.800 --> 00:25:55.060 In our sufferings. 00:25:55.700 --> 00:25:58.480 Because we know that suffering produces perseverance. 00:25:58.800 --> 00:25:59.720 Perseverance character. 00:25:59.900 --> 00:26:00.800 And character hope. 00:26:01.400 --> 00:26:02.180 And hope. 00:26:02.600 --> 00:26:03.840 Does not put us to shame. 00:26:04.420 --> 00:26:07.180 Because God's love has been poured out into our hearts. 00:26:07.180 --> 00:26:08.300 Through the Holy Spirit. 00:26:08.779 --> 00:26:11.019 Who has been given to us. 00:26:11.660 --> 00:26:12.820 So we cling to Jesus. 00:26:13.080 --> 00:26:13.600 And say no. 00:26:13.720 --> 00:26:14.680 We'll suffer for him. 00:26:14.759 --> 00:26:16.000 We'll pay the cost. 00:26:16.080 --> 00:26:16.800 Whatever it is. 00:26:16.860 --> 00:26:17.960 Even our own lives. 00:26:17.960 --> 00:26:20.940 It only goes to show that he is more glorious. 00:26:21.519 --> 00:26:23.100 Than people could ever imagine. 00:26:23.940 --> 00:26:27.200 And the intensity with which we reflect that glory to the world. 00:26:27.600 --> 00:26:30.200 Goes out even more brightly from our lives. 00:26:31.200 --> 00:26:31.920 Just to recap. 00:26:32.120 --> 00:26:33.799 Our mission is to shine. 00:26:34.440 --> 00:26:36.420 Why does Brunsfield Evangelical Church exist? 00:26:36.559 --> 00:26:37.360 Why are we here this morning? 00:26:37.440 --> 00:26:38.059 Well to shine. 00:26:38.680 --> 00:26:40.759 To shine God's glory back to him. 00:26:41.200 --> 00:26:42.380 And out to the world. 00:26:42.460 --> 00:26:44.480 To testify to his infinite beauty. 00:26:44.860 --> 00:26:46.340 His manifold perfections. 00:26:46.340 --> 00:26:47.360 And matchless worth. 00:26:47.960 --> 00:26:49.900 How are we to accomplish this? 00:26:50.019 --> 00:26:50.860 Well five things. 00:26:51.500 --> 00:26:53.160 By spurring one another on. 00:26:53.720 --> 00:26:55.240 By saying yes it's tough. 00:26:55.360 --> 00:26:56.779 But Jesus is worth it. 00:26:57.380 --> 00:26:58.980 By sharing together. 00:26:59.120 --> 00:27:00.700 By saying you need this news. 00:27:01.380 --> 00:27:02.279 You are lost. 00:27:02.440 --> 00:27:03.240 And without hope. 00:27:03.340 --> 00:27:04.039 And without Jesus. 00:27:04.180 --> 00:27:05.380 It will not get any better. 00:27:06.240 --> 00:27:08.400 And therefore we say for God's glory. 00:27:08.519 --> 00:27:09.299 I'll tell you. 00:27:09.740 --> 00:27:10.720 About his son. 00:27:10.799 --> 00:27:12.720 Who brings you into a relationship with him. 00:27:13.600 --> 00:27:14.519 It's about sending. 00:27:14.519 --> 00:27:17.700 And having a global vision of our global God. 00:27:17.960 --> 00:27:21.720 Whose glory wants to be spread from east to west. 00:27:22.759 --> 00:27:24.440 It's about subverting. 00:27:24.559 --> 00:27:26.140 Living life differently. 00:27:26.980 --> 00:27:30.200 Because of the one who loved us and gave himself for us. 00:27:30.740 --> 00:27:32.160 And it's about suffering. 00:27:32.799 --> 00:27:36.319 That even when people would want to say Jesus is not worth it. 00:27:36.319 --> 00:27:39.899 We would say he certainly is. 00:27:40.000 --> 00:27:41.740 And we cling to him no matter what. 00:27:42.379 --> 00:27:43.599 No matter what the cost. 00:27:44.399 --> 00:27:46.359 So let me finish with these words from Philippians. 00:27:46.500 --> 00:27:47.740 Therefore my dear friends. 00:27:48.259 --> 00:27:49.879 As you have always obeyed. 00:27:49.879 --> 00:27:51.220 Not only in my presence. 00:27:51.700 --> 00:27:53.299 But now much more in my absence. 00:27:53.480 --> 00:27:56.480 Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. 00:27:56.480 --> 00:27:59.880 For it is God who works in you to will and to act. 00:27:59.980 --> 00:28:02.180 In order to fulfill his good purposes. 00:28:03.180 --> 00:28:05.240 Do everything without grumbling or arguing. 00:28:05.819 --> 00:28:08.740 So that you may become blameless and pure children of God. 00:28:08.779 --> 00:28:11.099 Without fault in a warped and crooked generation. 00:28:12.099 --> 00:28:15.599 Then you will shine among them. 00:28:16.079 --> 00:28:17.339 Like the stars in the sky. 00:28:17.339 --> 00:28:17.939 Let me pray. 00:28:28.939 --> 00:28:31.759 Father God thank you that you alone are glorious. 00:28:34.279 --> 00:28:37.259 Father thank you that you are infinitely beautiful. 00:28:39.179 --> 00:28:43.980 That you are manifoldly perfect in every way. 00:28:43.980 --> 00:28:48.980 Father that your worth cannot be declared. 00:28:52.120 --> 00:28:55.680 And yet Lord because of your grace and your kindness to us. 00:28:55.740 --> 00:28:59.079 You sent your son that we might once again witness and live for that glory. 00:29:00.759 --> 00:29:05.120 And so Lord I pray that we as individuals might be caught up with fresh visions. 00:29:05.460 --> 00:29:07.400 Of just how glorious you are. 00:29:08.120 --> 00:29:10.299 That we would spur one another on. 00:29:10.759 --> 00:29:13.720 That we would share honestly and openly about Jesus. 00:29:13.720 --> 00:29:15.799 Who's captivated all of our hearts. 00:29:16.480 --> 00:29:20.039 Father that we would be willing to go where you call to do what you do. 00:29:20.259 --> 00:29:23.880 In order that you would receive the glory that you alone are worthy of. 00:29:24.360 --> 00:29:26.420 Father that we would live differently. 00:29:26.539 --> 00:29:29.720 As those that have been captivated by your glory. 00:29:30.380 --> 00:29:32.360 Who are living for your glory alone. 00:29:33.259 --> 00:29:35.259 And Father that we would be those. 00:29:35.779 --> 00:29:37.700 Lord who would be willing to suffer. 00:29:38.660 --> 00:29:40.460 Willing to suffer for you. 00:29:40.460 --> 00:29:43.120 Saying that it doesn't matter what it costs. 00:29:43.279 --> 00:29:44.600 Jesus is worth it. 00:29:44.920 --> 00:29:45.620 Every time. 00:29:46.420 --> 00:29:48.120 Father I pray for our church here. 00:29:48.840 --> 00:29:51.299 That Brunsfield would be a real beacon of your glory. 00:29:51.740 --> 00:29:53.299 Shining out ever brighter. 00:29:54.059 --> 00:29:55.279 Into this lost city. 00:29:56.000 --> 00:29:58.620 In order that others might be attracted to your glory. 00:29:59.140 --> 00:30:00.000 And live for you. 00:30:00.600 --> 00:30:02.340 Father we cannot do this by ourselves. 00:30:02.440 --> 00:30:03.480 So would your spirit come. 00:30:03.480 --> 00:30:05.279 And make Jesus big. 00:30:05.680 --> 00:30:07.720 And your glory big in our lives. 00:30:08.240 --> 00:30:09.779 Father we pray this in his name. 00:30:10.339 --> 00:30:10.559 Amen. 00:30:10.559 --> 00:30:10.779 For what? 00:30:10.779 --> 00:30:10.799 Amen. 00:30:11.259 --> 00:30:11.619 Amen. 00:30:11.839 --> 00:30:12.039 Amen. 00:30:12.059 --> 00:30:12.440 Amen. 00:30:12.440 --> 00:30:12.799 Amen. 00:30:13.460 --> 00:30:13.740 Amen. 00:30:14.000 --> 00:30:14.519 Amen. 00:30:14.519 --> 00:30:14.779 Amen. 00:30:15.399 --> 00:30:15.519 Amen. 00:30:15.940 --> 00:30:16.200 Amen. 00:30:16.639 --> 00:30:16.659 Amen. 00:30:16.659 --> 00:30:17.319 Amen. 00:30:17.980 --> 00:30:18.319 Amen. 00:30:18.319 --> 00:30:19.119 Amen. 00:30:19.819 --> 00:30:20.619 Amen. 00:30:20.759 --> 00:30:21.639 Amen. 00:30:21.639 --> 00:30:22.099 Amen. 00:30:22.119 --> 00:30:34.319 Amen. 00:30:36.700 --> 00:30:36.879 Amen. 00:30:36.879 --> 00:30:37.559 Amen. 00:30:38.179 --> 00:30:38.659 Amen. 00:30:38.659 --> 00:30:39.259 Amen. 00:30:39.259 --> 00:30:40.399 Amen.