NCCF Church Sharing - January 27, 2019

January 31, 201916mWatch on YouTube

Speaker: Church Title: Church Sharing Date: 01-27-2019 Our Goal as Christians is this: To be an exact reflection of Jesus, the Son of God (Romans 8:29) We do this individually by growing in purity in our personal lives (1 John 3:2-3) We do this corporately by becoming fully functioning members of a local Church (Ephesians 4:11-16)

Summary

The speaker uses the story of finding rats in his pockets after accepting unwanted cookies to illustrate how sin and worldly desires (the 'cookies') can secretly damage one's life, much like Judas's betrayal. He emphasizes that believers must be vigilant against these hidden 'encumbrances'—not just outright sin, but anything that hinders spiritual endurance—and must actively seek cleansing from God to maintain their 'robe of righteousness.'

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

A story about hidden cookies and unexpected damageThe speaker shares a memory of storing cookies in his pocket overnight, only to wake up and find his clothes ruined by rats that sneaked in to eat them.

Recognizing the potential to be like JudasReflecting on John chapter 13, the speaker notes how Judas allowed Satan to enter him, prompting the question of how easily hidden sin can enter our own lives.John 13:27

The subtle promptings before the fallThe devil first prompts people to stash small worldly desires before gaining a full foothold in their lives.

Wasted opportunities for cleansingJust as Judas had opportunities during the Last Supper and foot-washing to repent, believers are urged to immediately address and confess uncleanness when God highlights it.

Praying for daily cleansingThe speaker prays to continually recognize and get rid of the small fears and doubts that the enemy uses to stain the robe of righteousness.

Reciting and reflecting on Hebrews 12:1The congregation recites Hebrews 12:1 together, focusing on running the race with endurance by laying aside encumbrances and entangling sins.Hebrews 12:1

Being vigilant with encumbrances, not just sinWhile believers often take serious sin like pride or grumbling seriously, they are often less careful about harmless things that weigh down their spiritual endurance.

Examples of faith from biblical heroesFigures like Abraham and Moses treated earthly comforts, riches, and dwelling places as encumbrances because they were focused on an unseen heavenly destination.

When good things become weightsNormal, responsible things like saving money, retirement accounts, or property can become weights that cause discouragement and distract from following Jesus.

Our true destination is becoming like JesusBelievers are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ, fixing their eyes on Jesus as the ultimate finish line.Hebrews 12:2

Choosing the one needful thing like MarySpending just a few minutes sitting at Jesus's feet helps believers exchange their heavy, anxious yokes for His light and easy yoke.

Longing for fellowship with the FatherJust as Jesus endured the cross with joy to fellowship with His Father, believers should seek that same intimate connection above all else.

Surrendering lawful freedoms and habitsHobbies, sports, television, or excessive work may not be inherently sinful, but when they become consuming, God may ask us to lay them aside.

The cost of holding onto distractionsHolding onto these subtle weights can make us snappy, impatient, and out of peace with others, serving as a trap for the enemy.

Living for God's will and fellowshipInstead of constantly debating what is strictly right or wrong, the goal is to ask whether our freedoms and choices lead to deeper fellowship with God and others.

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NCCF Church Sharing - January 27, 2019

January 31, 2019 · 16m

Victory Freedom from sin