The Pursuit of Christ: A Life on the Look-out for Jesus — Jeremy Utley — June 11, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/the-pursuit-of-christ-a-life-on-the-look-out CFC NA Singles Discipleship Gathering 2022 - Session #12 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon uses Simeon's devotion in Luke's Gospel as an example of pursuing Christ, emphasizing that true discipleship involves an expectant heart. The speaker outlines three ways new covenant believers must remain on the lookout for Jesus, starting with maintaining a genuine expectation of Christ's return, which should evoke profound joy rather than surprise.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Learning from the Early Accounts in LukeBelievers can learn how to pursue Christ by examining the faithful examples recorded in the opening chapters of Luke's gospel.
Simeon's Devout ExpectationSimeon was righteous, devout, and actively looking for the consolation of Israel because the Holy Spirit had revealed he would see the Lord's Christ before dying.
Being on the Lookout as New Covenant DisciplesNew covenant disciples are not exempt from being on the lookout; rather, they must actively cultivate an expectant heart for Jesus.
Expecting Christ's ReturnThe first area in which disciples must be on the lookout is living with a ready, drop-everything expectation of the return of Jesus Christ.Titus 2:13
Remember Lot's Wife and Drop EverythingJesus warns through the example of Lot's wife not to have a heart clinging to this world when He returns, but instead to drop everything and run to Him.
Fixing Hope on Christ's Daily RevelationThe second way to be on the lookout is to fix hope completely on the grace brought by the daily revelation of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit.1 Peter 1:13
Mary as a Treasurer of God's WordUnlike those who merely wonder casually, Mary continuously treasured and pondered God's words in her heart.Luke 2:16
Longing for the Word Like Newborn BabiesBelievers are commanded to long for the pure milk of God's word with the singular appetite, total contentment, and frequent hunger of a newborn baby.1 Peter 2:2
A Passion That Reaches Beyond OneselfSimeon, Mary, and Zechariah demonstrate that those who look for the Lord are ultimately consumed with a passion for God's people and His broader redemptive purposes.
Appointed Watchmen on the WallsGod appoints watchmen who take no rest and give Him no rest until He establishes His church as a praise in the earth.Isaiah 62:6
Closing Prayer of StewardshipThe message concludes with prayer, thanking God for the Holy Spirit and asking for grace to be faithful, watchful stewards who multiply what they have been given.
