Family and the Church
Sermon • Submitted • Presented • 54:41
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Notes
Transcript
Introduction
Text
15 One day some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But when the disciples saw this, they scolded the parents for bothering him.
16 Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.
17 I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.”
Main Idea
Transition
Point 1
Parents must take the initiative
Parents must take the initiative
Become the primary means of discipleship for your children and family.
6 Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.
In the context of church life: Parents should actively engage in church ministry—your children are watching.
What you prioritize—your children will prioritize.
Point 2
The Church must provide experiential Discipleship
The Church must provide experiential Discipleship
Studies routinely expose a serious deficiency in the American church when it comes to effective discipleship.
Families need to experience the genuine, authentic presence of the Holy Spirit.
Cultural reality: Truth does not matter—what matters is does it work.
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.
43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders.
The church is an empowered church, providing an empowered message that changes lives—all within the context, realm (domain), and authority of the Kingdom of God.
Point 3
People must approach the Kingdom of God with Child-like Faith.
People must approach the Kingdom of God with Child-like Faith.
Adults tend to complicate faith or interpret faith and truth through personal experiences.
Children tend to trust in authority—and take authority at face value.
Genuine faith takes God at His Word.
17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)
6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.Romans 10:9 (ESV)
9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Conclusion
Take the initiative on personal discipleship.
The church provides life-changing discipleship.
Trust God like a child.