Francis Chan: The Year of Intimacy 2005

Sermon Summary

Here is a rewritten version of the sermon with added biblical references and emphasis on key points:

**Living Life as Though It's Our Last**

As we begin this new year, I want to challenge you to think about what truly matters in life. What would you do if you knew that 2005 was your last year on this earth? Would you live differently? Would you prioritize the things that bring you joy and fulfillment?

In Matthew 16:26, Jesus says, "What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" He's asking us to consider what's truly important in life. Is it our possessions, our status, or our relationships with others? Or is it our relationship with God and living a life that honors Him?

As we reflect on this question, I want to share with you an exercise that can help you identify your priorities. Take some time to write down what you would do if you knew 2005 was your last year on earth. What would you do differently? What would you prioritize?

This exercise is not just about planning for the end of life; it's about living intentionally every day. It's about recognizing that our time on this earth is limited and making the most of it.

**Reevaluating Membership at Cornerstone Church**

As a church, we've been thinking about how we can better serve each other and live out our faith together. One area we've been examining is our membership process. We've realized that our current system doesn't really hold people accountable for their commitments to the church.

In 2 Corinthians 8:10-12, Paul writes about the importance of giving generously and cheerfully to those in need. He says, "And now you know what we're doing. But I want you to be ahead of us as always in this gracious work by your eager willingness." As a church, we want to encourage generosity and service among our members.

To achieve this, we're introducing a new one-year membership model. This way, we can have more accountability and ensure that those who are committed to serving the church are actually doing so. We'll be tracking progress and providing support to help each other live out our commitments.

**Living Life with Purpose**

As we begin this new year, I want to encourage you to live life with purpose. Don't just go through the motions; truly prioritize what matters most to you. Ask yourself:

* What would I do if I knew 2005 was my last year on earth?

* Am I living intentionally every day?

* Am I prioritizing my relationship with God and serving others?

In Philippians 1:20-21, Paul writes, "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or death." Let's strive to live lives that honor God, regardless of what the future holds.

**Conclusion**

As we embark on this new year, let's remember that our time on earth is limited. Let's make the most of it by living intentionally and prioritizing what truly matters. Let's work together as a church family to support each other in our commitments and serve others with love and generosity.

In 1 Corinthians 13:2-3, Paul writes, "If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and expropriate myself for others, but have not love, it profits me nothing." Let's strive to live lives of love, service, and generosity.

May God bless us as we begin this new year with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to living out our faith together.