You Are The Church | Part 2

Matthew 22:34-40

Love God

  • Scripture teaches that the greatest command is to “Love God” (Matt. 22:34-40). This is where we must begin our journey as as the people of God.
  • To “love God” seems a bit open-ended. What does it look like to live in a way that honors this commandment?
    • The Bible tells us that truly “loving God” is to first acknowledge Him, then trust and obey Him, and finally to worship Him in all things.
    • Today we hit the first of these. Know one can “love God” without first “acknowledging” that He exists — Hebrews 11:6.
    • Many people sadly believe that we are cosmic accidents. They say we are genetic anomalies existing with no rhyme or reason. The people of God know that we are not a coincidence that came from nothing and going nowhere! We exist as the work of His hands and full of His purpose. — Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:14; Col. 1:16; Eph. 2:10

Follow Jesus

  • There is no better example of what a perfect human life looks like than God who became flesh and dwelt among us. — John 1:14
  • This is why Jesus calls to His disciples and bids them “follow me” (Matt. 16:24). In following Jesus we will learn to love others, make disciples, and endure all hardship. 
  • Today we focus on loving others. Jesus didn’t just love his followers. He loved His haters also.
  • This is why He is our example. Christ could have done His own thing, sat on an earthly crown, and ruled and reigned as God. Instead, He came to serve. — Mark 10:35-45

Depend On The Spirit

  •     Most churches understand loving God and following Jesus. However, few understand their dependance on the Spirit!
  • Scripture is clear that we will need God’s Spirit to live the Christian life. — Romans 8:5-10
  • Our dependence upon His Spirit is what brings power, fruitfulness, and victory to our lives.
  • Today we focus on His power we desperately need. Why are so many churches who have the Gospel void of growth and good works? They lack the power of God!
  • Jesus sends us the Spirit so we can have power to be effective in His name. — Acts 1:8; John 14:15-17; 26; 16:4-15