Overview
The sermon centers on the theme "Rise to the Occasion," encouraging believers to recognize and act upon the word and authority God has spoken over their lives, regardless of past failures or challenges. Emphasis is placed on faith, the power of God's word, generational unity, and responding actively to God's call in the present moment.
The Power of God's Word and Purpose
- God's purpose for each person exists before their creation; experiences do not nullify this purpose.
- The word spoken over your life contains authority, resources, and protection necessary to fulfill your calling.
- The enemy seeks to challenge or steal the word through doubt and questioning, leading to a loss of authority.
- Even if you drop the word, God offers grace and will speak again, providing new opportunities.
Faith and Authority
- True faith means trusting the one who speaks the word, not just the outcome you desire.
- The centurion in Matthew 8 demonstrates faith by believing Jesus' word alone can bring healing—this faith is commended by Jesus.
- Believers are reminded to rise above past disappointments and have faith that aligns with God's spoken word.
Role of the Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit guides, reveals, and empowers believers to live out their divine purpose.
- Spiritual revelation is available to those who pursue and listen to the Spirit, beyond what is naturally seen or heard.
- Creating an atmosphere through prayer and worship protects and nurtures the word in your life.
Generational Unity and Church Community
- The church values and celebrates its multi-generational makeup, recognizing the strength in diverse perspectives.
- Each generation contributes to understanding and advancing God's work in the community.
- Members are encouraged to honor, relate to, and learn from other generations.
Call to Action and Transformation
- Believers are challenged to examine and change patterns or relationships that undermine their spiritual authority.
- Rising to the occasion requires letting go of weights, doubts, and old mindsets to embrace new seasons confidently.
- Members are commissioned to activate their authority and contribute to the church's mission, not just rely on leadership.
Practical Invitations and Church Events
- Invitation to join or connect with the church community through QR code or in-person welcome.
- Announcement of Connect Week, church picnic, and upcoming anniversary and pastoral installation celebrations.
Decisions
- Encourage sowing a seed as a response to receiving the word.
- Call to rise to the occasion and step into the next season with faith and authority.
- Invitation to join the church community for those seeking a spiritual home.
Action Items
- This week – All members: Pray and ask how to rise to the occasion of what God is doing now.
- Saturday – Members/Attendees: Attend the church picnic.
- Sunday – All: Participate in the church anniversary and pastoral installation.
Recommendations / Advice
- Protect the word spoken over your life by creating a positive spiritual atmosphere.
- Engage with the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength in fulfilling your purpose.
- Do not let past failures or the words of others override God's declaration over your life.