For His Glory: Introduction

 

For His Glory: Introduction
Pastor Mark Johnson
September 18, 2011


Philippians 4:10–13 
The church is God’s idea.

Instead of being divided by all our differences we should be united by our common bond, Jesus. Being built up together by the Spirit and unified by His word.
The Church is supposed to be the body of Christ and a place where Jesus is Lord, His presence is honored and His will is sought. It is to be a place of worship, a place of prayer, and a place to grow in Him.
The scriptures are given to us so that we can discover God and grow into His image.
 
God is doing a work in the Church.
There is a worldview that comes into conflict with the Kingdom of God.
The American and personal worldview of life being all about me is in contrast to a biblical worldview of life being lived out for His glory.
In the American and personal worldview, when we face difficulties we want the answers to two questions.

        1. Why did this happen?

        2. Where was God?
As if God exists and I invite him into my life to empower me to achieve the American Dream.
Philippians 4:10–13
What do we typically ask when we face trial? Why?
Why did God allow this to happen?
2 Corinthians 4:7–18
Afflicted, Perplexed, persecuted, struck down - have you ever been there?
Why? So that the life of Jesus may be manifest in us.
Philippians 1:21
The way of God’s Kingdom is to understand that my life is about living for His Glory.
Philippians 4:12
Do you know how to live in every circumstance?
Can you say “if the worst happens to me I will still follow Him?”
How can I live with this and have joy?
Philippians 4:13
Through Jesus we can face anything: He will give us strength.
1 Corinthians 4:16-18
1. Outer self is wasting away.

2. Inner self is renewed, day by day.

3. Reminded that afflictions today that seem heavy, are light in comparison to the eternal weight of His Glory.

4. Look past circumstances and see the promise.

5. Seek the presence of the Spirit.

6. Today is temporary but to the victor there is the eternal.
 
The American Dream is about pleasure and riches today.
The Jesus Dream is about God’s Glory for eternity.
I surrender myself to you, Christ Jesus. May the words that come from my mouth honor You. May the actions of my life be a reflection of Your will. May the values of my heart be formed by Your Word and by Your Spirit. I submit all that I have, all that I am, every dream and desire to You and You alone. Use my life as You will. May your love grow in my heart each day. I live for Your glory! Amen.

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