Francis Chan: Azusa Pacific Chapel Nov. 2014

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message challenges the idea of independence and self-sufficiency in our Christian walk. We often adopt an "us vs. them" mentality, where we prioritize being right over being part of a community. However, God desires for us to be deeply attached to others under godly leadership, seeking oneness like the Father has with the Son.

Key Scripture References

• John 15:10-11 - Jesus says that if we keep His commandments, we will abide in His love. The commandment is to love one another as He has loved us. This passage reveals that our relationship with God is not just about individual devotion but also about how we relate to others.
• John 17:21-23 - Jesus prays for the unity of His followers, saying that they may be one as He and the Father are one. This passage emphasizes that our oneness is not just a sentimental feeling but a tangible reality that reflects God's character.
• Acts 2:44-47 - The early church in Jerusalem demonstrates what it means to be deeply attached to others under godly leadership. They sold their possessions and shared with one another, showing that they were one body in Christ.
• John 17:22-23 - Jesus says that His followers will be one as He and the Father are one, so that the world may believe that He was sent by God. This passage reveals that our unity is not just a personal experience but also an apologetic for the Gospel.
• 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 - The dedication of Solomon's temple is a powerful example of what it means to be one body in Christ. When the people saw the fire come down from heaven, they bowed down and worshiped, acknowledging God's goodness and steadfast love.
• John 17:21-23 - Jesus' prayer for unity is not just a request but a demonstration of His desire for us to be one as He and the Father are one. This passage challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God and others, seeking oneness in all aspects of life.

Main Message Continued

The idea that we should prioritize individual devotion over community is not supported by Scripture. In fact, Jesus' prayer for unity in John 17 reveals that He desires for us to be deeply attached to others under godly leadership. This attachment is not just a feeling but a tangible reality that reflects God's character.

Practical Application

This message challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and relationships. Rather than prioritizing individual devotion, we should seek oneness with others in Christ. This means being part of a community where we are deeply attached to one another under godly leadership. It also means seeking unity and oneness in all aspects of life, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable.

Conclusion

This message is not just about the importance of community but also about the nature of God Himself. Jesus' prayer for unity reveals that He desires for us to be one as He and the Father are one. This oneness is not just a personal experience but also an apologetic for the Gospel. As we seek to prioritize our relationship with God and others, we will find that our lives become more meaningful, purposeful, and fulfilling.