We live differently

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of living a life that is distinct from the world around us. We are called to be a community of believers who demonstrate our faith through our actions, even when it means making sacrifices and going against the norms of society. By choosing to live differently, we can bring glory to God and be a light in a dark world.

Key Scripture References

• Romans 12:1-2 - This passage reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we should not conform to the patterns of this world. Instead, we should be transformed by the renewing of our minds so that we can prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God. This connects to the main message because it emphasizes the importance of living a life that is surrendered to God's will.
• 1 Peter 2:9-10 - As followers of Christ, we are called to be a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people belonging to God. This means we should live in such a way that honors our heavenly Father and brings glory to His name. This passage highlights the importance of living differently as a reflection of our identity in Christ.
• Matthew 6:19-21 - Jesus teaches us that where our treasure is, there our heart will be also. He warns against storing up treasures on earth, which can lead to anxiety and distraction from God's kingdom. Instead, we should store up treasures in heaven by investing in the things of God. This passage supports the idea that living differently means prioritizing God's kingdom above earthly pursuits.
• Proverbs 19:17 - This verse encourages us to lend to those who are in need and not be afraid to do so, for it will surely repay you at a later time. This passage connects to the main message by highlighting the importance of giving generously and living differently in our financial decisions.
• Galatians 6:2 - We should carry each other's burdens, and in doing so, fulfill the law of Christ. This means we should be willing to sacrifice our own interests for the benefit of others. This passage supports the idea that living differently involves putting others' needs before our own.
• Luke 12:15 - Jesus warns against loving money and possessions more than God. He reminds us that life is not measured by what we accumulate, but by how we live for Him. This passage emphasizes the importance of living differently in our pursuit of wealth and material possessions.
• Acts 2:44-45 - In the early church, believers sold their possessions and shared them with those in need. They lived in harmony with one another, sharing what they had so that no one was lacking. This passage highlights the practical application of living differently by prioritizing community and generosity.

Key Takeaways

• We are called to live a life that is distinct from the world around us, demonstrating our faith through our actions and choices. This means we should be willing to make sacrifices and go against the norms of society when necessary.
• Living differently involves prioritizing God's kingdom above earthly pursuits. We should invest in the things of God, such as serving others, giving generously, and storing up treasures in heaven.
• We should carry each other's burdens and put others' needs before our own. This means being willing to sacrifice our own interests for the benefit of others and living in harmony with one another.
• Living differently involves a willingness to give and serve others, even when it means making sacrifices. We should be generous with our time, talents, and resources, trusting that God will repay us at a later time.

This Week's Challenge

This week, we challenge you to take two specific steps towards living differently:

• Identify one area in your life where you can prioritize God's kingdom above earthly pursuits. This might be by giving more generously, serving others, or investing in the things of God.
• Pray for an opportunity to serve someone in need this week. It could be a friend, family member, or stranger. Be willing to sacrifice your own interests and make time for others.

Reflection Questions

• What are some areas in my life where I am conforming to the patterns of this world? How can I surrender these areas to God's will and live a more transformed life?
• How can we, as a community of believers, prioritize generosity and serving others? What practical steps can we take together to live out our faith in tangible ways?
• How does my daily routine reflect my priorities? Am I storing up treasures on earth or in heaven? How can I adjust my schedule and habits to align with God's will?