God’s Mission, My Mission – Lesson 6: Motivation and Preparation for Mission | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 6: Motivation and Preparation for Mission |
Memory Text: 1: Luke 24:44 – These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me. |
Content:
6.1 To Share the Good News
The women experienced the resurrection of Jesus and were full of joy and enthusiasm. Despite initial skepticism from some disciples, they were not discouraged and hurried back to share the good news. Their motivation to spread the redemption through Jesus was based on their personal experience with God, recognizing the immeasurable value of this message.
6.2 A Prophetic Foundation
The encounter of the apostles with the resurrected Jesus in Luke 24:36–49 was of great significance as it dispelled their initial doubts and fears, giving them the certainty that He indeed lives. This was crucial in strengthening their faith and motivation for the mission. Jesus also showed them the prophetic foundation of His work and ministry to ensure that their faith rested on the Word of God and that they understood the true meaning of His resurrection. This underscores the need to build our understanding of the gospel and our experiences with Jesus on the solid foundation of the Word of God to be prepared and motivated for the mission.
6.3 Waiting and Mission
The disciples waited in unity and prayer, following Jesus’ instructions, for the fulfillment of His promise, the Holy Spirit. During this waiting period, they prepared for their mission by organizing themselves and selecting a replacement for Judas. This illustrates that waiting for God’s work does not have to be idle but can result in meaningful mission preparation. This attitude of collective prayer and practical preparation should also inspire us as we wait for God’s work in our lives.
6.4 “Whom you crucified”
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost was a pivotal moment when the disciples were empowered to speak in various languages to fulfill God’s mission for the lost. Even those who crucified Christ could receive forgiveness, emphasizing the power of the gospel. This reminds us that our mission as followers of Jesus is to proclaim the saving message in a sinful world without judgment but by bearing witness to the grace of Jesus.
6.5 A Picture of the Early Church
Acts 2:41-47 presents an impressive image of the early church, where newly baptized believers were not mere members but equal parts of the community. Discipleship was a central aspect, and the apostles taught not only through words but also through their daily lives. Guidance on how to live one’s faith in daily life was provided not just through teaching but also through the shared experiences and the example set by existing believers, highlighting the importance of practical living in faith.
The Great Controversy | The Battle of Faith
In the midst of our everyday lives, where joy and pain intertwine, where successes meet challenges, we are part of a larger reality that manifests in an invisible yet significant battle. This battle, as mentioned in the Holy Scriptures, is not merely a mythological allegory but a reality deeply woven into the fibers of our existence.
The text from the book of Job opens a window to a truth often concealed. It portrays a dialogue between the heavenly council and Satan – a conversation that extends beyond the earthly sphere. It highlights the greater conflict between good and evil, light and darkness, which transcends the boundaries of our world. In this account, we witness the testing and faith of a man involved in a conflict that not only affects his life but also the heavenly realms.
This narrative is more than the story of an individual. It mirrors our own reality. Just as Job was entangled in this divine conflict, we too are part of this epic struggle. Every day, every decision, every thought is part of this cosmic battle.
This “Great Controversy” is not confined to Job’s time alone. Scripture offers numerous examples of this battle between the powers of heaven, between good and evil, between God and Satan. The battle rages within the pages of the Bible, in life events, and in the decisions we make.
Awareness of this invisible battle can help us see life in a different light. It reminds us that our faith, steadfastness, and trust in God are crucial. It encourages us not only to see the visible challenges but also the greater reality behind them.
So, let us not forget that our lives, though different from Job’s, are intertwined in this epic struggle. Let us remain steadfast in this awareness, cling to God’s promises and guidance, and consciously advocate for what is good. May our faith strengthen us amid this battle and encourage us to bring God’s light into the darkness.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-the-battle-of-faith/
Adventist News Network – November 3, 2023
Adventist News Network – November 3, 2023 |
This week on ANN: |
We introduce new leaders during Annual Council 2023. |
The Adventist Church’s Treasurer’s Report promotes faithfulness to the mission. |
Plus, stay tuned for a story about a vegan restaurant launched by the Adventist Church in the capital of Colombia. |
These are the top stories from around the world.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/adventist-news-network-november-3-2023/
The End | Summary
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Faith in Jesus Christ gives us hope beyond death. Death is not the final word in our lives but the beginning of something new and eternal.
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Our earthly stories often end with death, whether through the loss of loved ones or our own mortality. However, faith in Jesus offers the prospect of eternal life with God and triumph over death.
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Amidst tears and pain in this world, the Gospel presents a greater story that extends beyond this world. It is the story of redemption, resurrection, and eternal life.
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Our end in this world is not the end of our true story. Through faith in Jesus, we have the opportunity to write a story that never ends, a story that continues in His eternal presence.
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The true “happy ending” is not in earthly prosperity but in our relationship with God. As Job shows, true happiness is found in the nearness of God, regardless of external circumstances.
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While life is often marked by pain, suffering, and tragic circumstances, we can learn important lessons from biblical stories with tragic endings. They challenge us to see the suffering of others and offer support and encouragement.
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The incomplete restoration in Job’s story reminds us that there are many unresolved questions and suffering in this fallen world. However, the Gospel promises complete redemption and restoration in eternity through Jesus Christ.
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Eschatology in the Bible points to the hope that God’s kingdom will be established at the end of time and will endure forever. Our true end lies in the promise of an eternal home with God.
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The question of resurrection and life posed by Job is answered in Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him, we have the assurance that death is not the ultimate end but the beginning of eternal life in His presence.
In summary, these devotions offer deep insights and remind us that our faith in Jesus Christ provides hope, comfort, and confidence beyond death. They invite us to live in gratitude and await the fulfillment of God’s promises in the future. May this hope shine in our hearts, reminding us that death is not the final end but the beginning of eternal life with Jesus.
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