Our youth pastor, (JB), opened saying that he felt anointed for the message; he could even smell the anointing. It turned out he had a bottle of anointing oil in his pocket which had broken!
JB noted that he had learned to love all types of church services. But the services mean nothing if we are not fulfilling our purposes. If we don't step out to teach the lost, then the service is hollow.
There are currently about 7.6 billion people in the world. 2 billion plus claim to be Christian. That leaves 5 billion plus who need Jesus. They are lost and without hope.
We have to do more than go through the motions of church. There is work to be done for the kingdom of God. A life to be lived by each of us. Do we live the truth? What has He created us to be? He created each of us to be a light in the darkness.
We are to live differently than the world. You were made to shine. Matthew 5:14-16.
Unfortunately, too many Christians have become better at blending into the culture instead of standing out. When the church goes silent, the church goes dark.
JB recently turned on TV and the MTV awards show was just starting. Within two minutes they disrespected country and God and JB was offended so he turned it off.
Do not accept the lawless culture. Instead, remember the song “Though none go with me, still I will follow.” Jesus never lets you down like this world does.
Be careful of multiple identities. Too many Christians hide their light under a basket. Oftentimes it is due to selfishness and pride. Too often we are uncomfortable to reach out to lost people. We have to believe that no one needs to know my name, but they need to know who Jesus is and the gift of salvation he offers.
Romans 12:2 says not to conform to the world, but to be transformed. Reaching the low bar of the world is too easy. Instead, we should be trendsetters for Christ.
Matthew 5:14-16 states three key points: Our identity, our purpose, our reason.
We are a light…to shine God’s message of hope…so all men may praise Him!
Shine your light for all to see.
If we are going to make a difference, they (the world) need to see a difference.
We are going to have to be different.
Actions needed to back up our words. Own your identity! Your true identity will reveal your purpose.
Don't put a basket over your light.
Darkness only exists because there is an absence of light. 5 billion people need us to shine.
I thought I might use the I'll Follow song but I decided on this fitting song video instead:
Verses for today:Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
JB exhorts us to pray: "Lord, help me to live the life You've called me to."
Loving the music video. :)
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