Francis Chan: Re:New NYC Outreaches 2015

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of seeking a genuine, lasting connection with God, rather than relying on external factors such as emotional highs or superficial obedience. The speaker encourages us to slow down and pray for a supernatural love and longing for Jesus that will endure beyond our own efforts or manipulations.

Key Scripture References

• Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 - This passage warns against using many words when approaching God, instead urging us to be mindful of His glory and respond with reverence. The speaker applies this principle to their own speaking and praying, recognizing the importance of being careful with our words in God's presence.
• Malachi 1:10-14 - In these verses, God expresses His dissatisfaction with the Israelites' superficial worship and offerings. He longs for genuine devotion and obedience from His people, rather than mere external rituals. This passage serves as a warning against relying on outward appearances of faith without true internal change.
• 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 - Paul's rebuke to the Corinthian church highlights their tendency to focus on external expressions of worship while neglecting the reality of their hearts. The speaker uses this passage to caution against superficial Christianity, emphasizing the need for genuine obedience and love for God.
• John 17:20-23 - Jesus' prayer in John 17 serves as a model for our own prayers and relationships with one another. He prays that His followers may be united, just as the Father and Son are united, and that this unity will demonstrate God's love to the world.
• John 17:21 - Specifically, Jesus' phrase "that they may all be one" underscores the importance of oneness among believers. The speaker encourages us to look beyond external differences and see the Holy Spirit at work in others, recognizing them as brothers and sisters in Christ.

The Importance of Unity and Oneness

The speaker emphasizes that true unity and oneness among believers are essential for demonstrating God's love to the world. He encourages us to look beyond external differences and see the Holy Spirit at work in others, recognizing them as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Seeking a Genuine Connection with God

The message emphasizes the importance of seeking a genuine, lasting connection with God, rather than relying on external factors such as emotional highs or superficial obedience. The speaker encourages us to slow down and pray for a supernatural love and longing for Jesus that will endure beyond our own efforts or manipulations.

Practicing Humility and Obedience

The speaker urges us to practice humility and obedience, recognizing the importance of being careful with our words in God's presence. He encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of God's Word and to apply its principles to our lives, rather than relying on superficial expressions of faith.

Conclusion

The message concludes by emphasizing the importance of seeking a genuine connection with God and practicing humility and obedience. The speaker encourages us to look beyond external differences and see the Holy Spirit at work in others, recognizing them as brothers and sisters in Christ. By doing so, we can demonstrate God's love to the world and bring glory to His name.