Excepts from sermon by Kyle Maestri at Willows Baptist Church, Prescott Az. July 14,2018 Nancy Percy says in her book Total Truth “Christianity is not just religious truth, it is total truth.” Is our relationship with Jesus relevant in the public square, market place and in our families? How is the world does this happen: Churchgoer and at the same time, a planned parenthood abortion counselor. Churchgoer and at the same time a morally corrupt swinger. Churchgoer and world follower caught in trap of pornography. Churchgoer and yet using scissors and white-out in their Bible as they pick and choose their “comfortable truths.” Such mixed messages that “Christians” send out are confusing the flock and leading others astray. Recently former president Jimmy Carter and Sunday school teacher said, “I believe Jesus would approve of same sex marriages.” Ephesians 3:16-19 ...all God wants us to have, “That he would grant you, according to the riches of His glory.....” We must see discipleship differently as we move from our justified and redeemed state. Discipling is so important in our churches and families, as the world seeks to devour and mislead people everyday. How do we do this? The first question to be addressed - What is the nature of reality?
A: The gospel is the entrance to the kingdom of God.
B: The kingdom has a king; King Jesus.
C: Jesus is not the King of just church stuff; Jesus is the Lord of the universe.
D: The gospel is not merely a transaction, but a life. Who am I ? ... identity.
A: As the world takes away standards of truth you can establish your own truth.
B. Spiritual identity? Are you just forgiven? Have you just been punched a ticket to heaven?
C: Are you a new creation? Is the fruit of the Spirit recognizable in your life?.
D: We are called saints...set apart and consecrated to God.
E: “In Christ” is not described by what you do, but by who you are. Choice and free will are still yours. Ask the Spirit of God what he thinks of you? How to live
A: Understand we are in a war zone.
B: Consume and abide in the Word.
C: Ideas are everywhere and we must filter them.
D: Repentance and forgiveness are so important; when is the last time you asked for forgiveness and repented? The cross, burial and resurrection are central.
E: We are ambassadors for Christ. We are God’s appeal to the world. Jesus was the culmination not just the beginning. Kingdom living is much more than living.