Every member of a family has a role to play and some level responsibility to all of the other members of the family. So it is with the Body of Christ (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:12-26 & Romans 12:4-5). We are children of God, brothers and sisters in Christ – each of us has a responsibility to God and to one another. What do you believe your responsibilities include? Are you carrying out those responsibilities, i.e. are you a committed member of God’s family?
This weekend’s message was about how God rewards those who diligently pursue Him. (Heb. 11:6) It’s easy to lose sight of this promise as we face struggles and the routine of day to day life. Colossians 3:1-2 states “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated…set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (NIV) How do you keep your mind fixed on eternal things?
Paul expresses in Colossians 3:16-17 and Ephesians 5:18-21 that we are to be a Spirit-filled, Word-filled, worshiping and ministering body of believers. In what ways are you growing in these areas? How are you letting the Spirit fill and lead you? What has God been teaching you in His Word recently? Are you actively engaging in worship? Give some examples of how you are ministering to others and being ministered to by others.
The Book of Acts closes with an exceptional verse that is loaded with meaning for us today. Acts 28:31 “Boldly and without hindrance he [Paul] preached the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.” (NIV) We are called to continue this preaching and teaching in our present day. In what ways are you preaching the Kingdom and teaching others about the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you have any encouraging testimonies from the past few months about how others experienced God’s Kingdom through you and were brought closer to Jesus Christ because of their relationship with you?
If you had one story to share with people – one message of hope for them based on what God has done in your life – what would that story/message be?
