Overview
This sermon and congregational gathering centers on the call to live as "apostolic Christians"—those who pursue scriptural fidelity, embrace the ecclesia as an embassy of God's kingdom, and uphold wisdom and transformation over ritual. The message addresses the difference between church traditions and the original apostolic model, emphasizes wisdom, and outlines a vision for future church transition.
Worship and Creed
- Congregation encouraged to praise and affirm their identity as "the congregation of the mighty."
- Creed recited, stressing the mission to disciple Christians to be biblically grounded and culturally unmodified.
- Offering collected, with instructions provided for giving.
Wisdom Versus Clichés
- Speaker challenges popular religious clichés that can distract from true wisdom.
- Emphasis placed on the pain and necessity of wisdom, which provides knowledge, discernment, and sound judgment.
- Wisdom's role is to guide actions, not to spare from difficult experiences.
The Soul, Sin, and Redemption
- Explanation that the soul originates from God and is distinct from the physical body.
- Sin began as a being (Lucifer) before becoming a concept or act, with roots in rebellion and alternative ways.
- Apostles and prophets are described as "soul curers," equipped to restore and sanctify souls through divine law.
Apostolic Versus Institutional Church
- Apostles and prophets predate the church and are foundational to its true nature and governance.
- The institutional church is critiqued for focusing on rituals rather than transformation and for misunderstanding its embassy role.
- Apostolic Christians are called to embrace knowledge, order, and the full authority of God's kingdom.
Transformation and Next Steps
- The speaker introduces the transition from church as ritual to church as embassy—governing, equipping, and sanctifying.
- Conversion trail and discipleship journey highlighted: rekindling conviction, political transformation, and facilitating a true apostolic movement.
- Not every church is called to become an "embassy church"; discernment of calling is necessary.
Practical Implementation
- Congregants urged to study the provided manual and book, and to prepare for upcoming tours and teachings.
- The shift to apostolic Christianity is framed as an advancement, not a critique, of previous church expressions.
- The mission is to mature and transition the church to its eternal role as God's ambassador on earth.
Offering and Announcements
- Third Sunday offering collected for the chief apostle, who does not receive a salary.
- Online giving instructions and support contact (Nicole) provided.
- Members encouraged to greet each other following dismissal.
Recommendations / Advice
- Read Proverbs 1–4, 8–9 for biblical wisdom.
- Seek understanding of your calling and the nature of ecclesia.
- Prepare spiritually and intellectually for the transition to an embassy model.
Action Items
- August–September – Congregation: Launch of the 'churches to embassies' tour; members to read manuals and prepare for transition.
- TBD – Apostle Ashley: Receive special prayer instruction from the chief apostle.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Consider personal calling: Is your church called to be an embassy church?
- How can members cultivate and maintain conviction about Jesus Christ in daily life?
- Reflect on the meaning of being an apostolic Christian and how it differs from traditional expressions.