In the June 11 worship service conducted by LivingStone Church, the focus was on a passage from the Gospel of Luke. The passage discusses the sacrifices involved in following Jesus Christ and how the world often views Christianity as a religion of loss and sacrifice. However, Jesus reveals the value and rewards that come with following Him. The service highlighted the concept of surrendering worldly possessions to embrace the treasure found in Jesus, and the importance of letting go of personal achievements to gain Christ’s righteousness. It also touched on the topic of difficult family dynamics and the sacrifices that may come from choosing to follow Jesus despite strained relationships. The message encourages readers to stay committed to their faith and not sacrifice their relationship with God for the sake of preserving other relationships.
Overall, the worship service aimed to show the audience the value and rewards that come with following Jesus, despite the sacrifices and challenges that may arise.
June 11 Worship Service
Welcome to the article recapping the June 11 worship service conducted by LivingStone Church. This service was filled with powerful moments of worship, an enlightening musical performance, and a thought-provoking focus on the Gospel of Luke 18:28-30.
Musical Performance and Applause
The worship service began with a beautiful musical performance that captivated the congregation. The talented musicians played melodious tunes that touched the hearts of everyone present. The atmosphere was electric as their songs filled the space, uplifting and inspiring all those in attendance. The heavenly melodies resonated with the souls of the worshippers and set the tone for a deeply meaningful service.
Focus on Gospel of Luke 18:28-30
The main focus of the sermon was the Gospel of Luke 18:28-30, which explores the theme of sacrifices in following Jesus. This passage recounts the disciples’ boastful sacrifices and Jesus’ perspective on sacrifices. It also highlights the value and rewards of following Jesus.
Sacrifices in Following Jesus
Disciples’ Boastful Sacrifices
In Luke 18:28, Peter boldly declares to Jesus, “We have left our homes and followed you.” This statement reflects the disciples’ willingness to make sacrifices in order to follow Jesus. They left behind their homes, careers, and way of life to fully commit themselves to his teachings. It is important to note that their sacrifices were not made in a boastful manner. Instead, they were acts of devotion and a genuine desire to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Jesus’ Perspective on Sacrifices
Jesus, in his response to the disciples’ boastful sacrifices, reminds them of the true nature of their sacrifices. In Luke 18:29-30, Jesus reassures them that anyone who has left behind worldly possessions and relationships for the sake of the kingdom of God will be rewarded in this life and in eternity. He emphasizes the significance of their sacrifices and encourages them to continue walking the path of discipleship.
Value and Rewards in Following Jesus
Following Jesus comes with its own set of sacrifices, but it also brings immeasurable value and rewards. The act of surrendering everything for the sake of Christ is not in vain. It is through sacrifice that our faith is strengthened and our commitment to Jesus deepens. The rewards may not always be tangible or immediate, but we can trust in God’s faithfulness to bless and provide for those who choose to follow him wholeheartedly.
Parables of Jesus
Parables of the Buried Treasure and the Pearl
Jesus often used parables to teach profound truths about the kingdom of Heaven. In this worship service, two parables were explored – the Parable of the Buried Treasure and the Parable of the Pearl. These parables serve as analogies for the Kingdom of Heaven as a hidden treasure and a valuable pearl.
Kingdom of Heaven as Hidden Treasure and Valuable Pearl
In the Parable of the Buried Treasure, Jesus describes a man who discovers a hidden treasure in a field. Overjoyed by his find, the man sells everything he has to purchase the field and claim the treasure as his own. Similarly, in the Parable of the Pearl, Jesus speaks of a merchant who finds a valuable pearl and sells everything he has to acquire it. Both parables illustrate the immense value and worth of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Sacrifice to Obtain the Treasure
The central message of these parables lies in the sacrifice made by the individuals who find the hidden treasure and the valuable pearl. They willingly give up everything they possess, recognizing that the incredible value of the Kingdom of Heaven surpasses anything else they could ever possess. These parables vividly depict the sacrificial nature of following Jesus and highlight the importance of wholehearted commitment to him.
Impact of the Disciples’ Sacrifice
Disciples’ Decision to Follow Jesus
The disciples’ decision to follow Jesus was not an easy one. They left behind their livelihoods, families, and security to become his devoted followers. Their choice to embrace a life of sacrifice and service laid the foundation for the mission and impact of the early Christian church.
Regretting Sacrifices
While the disciples’ sacrifice carried great significance and purpose, they also faced moments of doubt and regret. In moments of weakness, they may have questioned whether their sacrifices were truly worthwhile. Yet, despite their occasional doubts, they remained committed to Jesus and his teachings, persevering through challenges and spreading the message of hope.
Significant Impact on the World
The sacrifices made by the disciples had a significant impact on the world. Through their unwavering dedication, they spread the Good News of Jesus Christ far and wide, establishing churches and sharing the transformative power of the Gospel. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for the growth and expansion of Christianity, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Letting Go of Valuable Things
God’s Call to Let Go
God often calls upon his followers to let go of worldly possessions and attachments. This call to let go is not to deprive us, but rather to free us from the chains of materialism and to cultivate a heart of generosity and trust in God’s providence.
Surrendering Wealth, Homes, and Achievements
Letting go may involve surrendering wealth, homes, and personal achievements. By relinquishing the hold that these things have on our lives, we create space for God to work in and through us. It is through our willingness to release our grasp on the material that we can fully embrace the spiritual. We must remember that possessions do not define our worth or satisfaction; rather, it is our relationship with God that brings true fulfillment.
Example of Apostle Paul
A powerful example of letting go can be seen in the life of the Apostle Paul. Before his conversion, Paul was a highly educated and respected Pharisee, with numerous achievements under his belt. Yet, upon encountering Jesus, he willingly let go of his former way of life, regarding it as garbage compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8). Paul’s life serves as a powerful reminder that the greatest achievements pale in comparison to the immeasurable value found in Christ.
Confidence in Personal Accomplishments
Speaker’s Personal Accomplishments
During the worship service, the speaker shared personal accomplishments they had achieved before surrendering their life to Christ. They spoke of their achievements with a sense of pride and self-assurance, not realizing that the true measure of their worth would be found in their relationship with Christ.
Lost Accomplishments in Light of Christ
The speaker’s perspective on their personal accomplishments changed dramatically upon encountering Christ. They realized that their former achievements, while impressive by worldly standards, held little eternal value. In light of Christ’s saving grace, their accomplishments became insignificant compared to the immeasurable worth found in a relationship with Jesus.
Embracing Christ’s Righteousness
In the face of their lost accomplishments, the speaker found solace and hope in embracing the righteousness of Christ. They understood that it is not their personal achievements that bring them closer to God, but rather the gift of Christ’s righteousness imputed to them by faith. This realization allowed the speaker to let go of their past accomplishments and to confidently place their trust in Christ.
Faith in Christ’s Righteousness
Acceptable Righteousness Before God
Faith in Christ’s righteousness is the key to acceptance before God. No amount of personal achievements or moral goodness can earn salvation. It is only through faith in Jesus, and the righteousness he offers, that we can be made acceptable before God.
Exchanging Failures for Christ’s Righteousness
The beauty of faith in Christ’s righteousness lies in the exchange it offers. We have the opportunity to exchange our failures and shortcomings for Christ’s perfect righteousness. It is through this exchange that we can stand before God blameless and justified, not on our own merit, but on the righteousness of Jesus.
Embracing the Value of Jesus Christ
When we place our faith in Christ’s righteousness, we acknowledge the immeasurable value of Jesus Christ. Our salvation and standing before God are not based on our own worthiness, but on the inestimable worth of the Son of God. It is through embracing Jesus and his sacrifice that we can confidently approach the throne of grace.
Strained Family Relationships
Matthew 10: Division and Strife Among Family Members
In Matthew 10, Jesus speaks about the potential division and strife that following him may bring within family relationships. He acknowledges that adherence to his teachings and the gospel may cause tension, even between close family members.
Personal Story of Strained Relationship
During the worship service, a member of the congregation courageously shared their personal story of a strained relationship within their family due to their commitment to follow Jesus. They spoke about the difficulties they faced, the pain of rejection, and the toll it took on their emotional well-being.
Prioritizing Faith Over Relationships
While it can be incredibly challenging to navigate strained family relationships caused by differing beliefs, Jesus encourages his followers to prioritize their faith in him above all else. He reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to him, even if it means letting go of familial ties. This difficult decision can bring about heartache but is founded on the conviction that following Jesus is the most important and fulfilling path to take.
Sacrifice in Difficult Family Dynamics
Loss and Sacrifice for Following Jesus
Choosing to follow Jesus in the midst of difficult family dynamics often involves sacrifice and loss. It may mean embracing ridicule, rejection, or even estrangement from loved ones. However, it is essential to remember that the sacrifice made for the sake of Christ’s kingdom is never in vain. God sees our sacrifices and promises to reward and bless those who faithfully follow him.
Value of Relationships within the Church
While strained family relationships can cause deep pain, it is crucial to recognize the value of relationships within the church. The body of Christ, comprising fellow believers, becomes a spiritual family that provides support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. In times of difficulty, these relationships can offer solace and strength, helping us navigate any sacrifice we may be experiencing in our familial relationships.
Staying Committed to Faith Amidst Challenges
Remaining committed to faith amidst challenges is never easy, especially when it involves strained family dynamics. However, it is vital to lean on God’s strength and seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors and friends. By continuously surrendering our pain and concerns to God, we can find the courage and perseverance needed to navigate the sacrifices and challenges of following Jesus. Trusting in God’s plan and staying committed to our faith will ultimately lead to the growth and deepening of our relationship with him.
In conclusion, the June 11 worship service conducted by LivingStone Church was a powerful and enlightening experience. Through the exploration of sacrifices in following Jesus, the parables of the buried treasure and the pearl, the impact of the disciples’ sacrifice, letting go of valuable things, confidence in personal accomplishments, faith in Christ’s righteousness, strained family relationships, and sacrifice in difficult family dynamics, attendees were challenged to consider their own commitment to Christ and the sacrifices involved in following him. The service reminded us of the immeasurable value and rewards that come with surrendering our lives to Jesus and staying committed to our faith, even in the face of challenges and sacrifices. May we all be encouraged and inspired to wholeheartedly pursue a life of sacrifice and devotion to Jesus Christ.