Next Gen: Identity| Saved-Sons-Sent

“If my days tell a story, may it be for the honor of your name,” FC sang, and that is how I want my life to count-for the honor of His name. The kids sang, worshipped, and led in prayer. They are the future of the church, and we are so blessed to see the young ones leading us in worship and prayer.

Then the NexGen tag team came up beginning with Pastor Tim, who led off the sermon entitled “Identity “with the first section, “Saved.” Pastor Tim reminded us that we have something in common, sin, which he defined as “missing God’s mark.” In other words, sin violates what God wants us to do. 

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ’You shall not 

murder, (a) and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But

I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister (b)(c) will be

subject to judgment.” Matthew 5:21-22 (NIV)

Another verse that has the same idea is “But I tell you  that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:28 (NIV)

These verses illustrate how sin begins in the heart. We need to look inward for the source of sin instead of trying to blame “My kids for my anger issues.” In other words stop blaming your circumstances for the condition of your heart. Pastor Tim continued,”It is hard to experience freedom when you don’t realize you’re in bondage.”

The fact is we are all sinners. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NIV) The Bible is not giving you a license to sin but rather a reason to begin. Through the sacrifice of the Savior, we can begin to live. “For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.” Romans 3:25 (NIV)

A statement often said is “We are sinners saved by grace.” Pastor Tim contended that he no longer identified as a sinner. The problem was his sinful nature. Because Jesus’ blood covered us and transformed, we are new creations in Jesus. The answer is Jesus. ”You are sinner saved by grace.”

Children’s pastor, Pastor Michel was next, and he stated that he valued deeply his relationship with Jesus. “Without Him you have nothing,” Pastor Michel asserted. 

Then he asked,”Who is your father?” He read from John 1:12,”But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name,  he gave the right to become children of God.” (ESV) He continued,”Is Jesus your Lord? If so, you’re His child.” His sacrifice made us His children, and He cannot give you up. He has given you new life, abundant life as it states in John 10:10. So now Pastor Michel declared,”I get to pray. I get to worship. I get to read the Word of God.” He recommended that we take off the shackles of performance to be in the house of the Lord!

The final person on the tag team was Pastor Franklin of the FC youth. He declared that he was excited to be saved and grateful to be His child. God after growing you speaks to you of purpose, and He has a purpose for each of us.

“Jesus came and told his disciples, ’I have been given all 

authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make

disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of

the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:18-19 (NLT)

God is sending you. To be sent means that God authorizes, equips, and directs you to carry out a specific assignment for His purpose. God is ready to make you uncomfortable. “Some of you are looking for a mike, but He gives you a broom,” asserted Pastor Franklin.

Pastor Franklin gave us four words:

#1-Direction-Where are you being sent to? In Mark, Jesus directed His disciples,”Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Mark 16:15 (NLT) He is sending you to the dark places where people may not like you. Are you willing and ready to go? However, wait until He gives you direction.

#2-Assignment-What are you being sent to do? Maybe you are to serve in the house. What is the need in the house? Jesus told His disciples,”Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19 (NLT)

#3-Authority-What are you being sent with? Who gave you the power? Who gave you permission? Pastor Franklin declared,”But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere…” Acts 1:8 (NLT) Wait for God to give you permission to move. Ask for His discernment.

#4-Presence-Who are you being sent with? “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 (NLT)  The greatest thing you will have is His presence.This opportunity is the chance to walk by faith not by sight; to walk by faith not by feelings. God is sending us. Maturity says,”I am here to bless, here to pour out my life.” Maturity means that you are not always here to be blessed. Your purpose is never comfortable.

The three pastors shared about Identity-‘saved, sons (and daughters), and sent. When we realize who we are and what we can do, we are blessed to go and be salt and light in this troubled world.

Calendar:

12/2-10:00 at FC-Carol Gardner’s celebration of life. Please LBs bring finger food for the reception.

12/6-11:00 in the Activity Center Women’s Christmas Tea. Are you registered?

12/12-6:00 in the Activity Center-the LB potluck and caroling

Merry Christmas,

Larry and Annette