June 16th Recap & Application of Pastor Kevyn’s Sermon Notes: "Jesus & His Father’s Work"
By reflecting on these verses and principles this week, we can deepen our relationship with Jesus and live out our faith more fully each day, especially in our role as a Father or even a mentor.
"With the Help of God’s Work in a Man"
Introduction
The goal of a man, and especially a father, is to learn to love as much as Jesus loved and served the heart of God, the Father.
Jesus Knew the Heart of God as His Father
Jesus Loved and Prioritized the Young and Innocent
Cultures can often minimize children and youth, viewing them as distractions from worldly achievements. However, Jesus taught us to value and prioritize them.
Mark 10:13-16 "And they were bringing children to Him so that He would touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, 'Allow the children to come to Me; do not forbid them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.' And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them."
Thoughts to Live By: Make time to nurture and value children, recognizing their importance in the kingdom of God. Approach God with childlike faith and humility in your daily walk.
Jesus was Committed to Protect, Provide, and Nurture Life as the Empowered and Informed Son of God
Honoring God as Our True Father
Matthew 5:16 "Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
Thoughts to Live By: Let your actions reflect God's love and truth, inspiring others to glorify Him.
Understanding the Father's Priorities
John 5:20 "For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these."
Thoughts to Live By: Seek to understand God's will and priorities through prayer and study of the Scriptures.
Doing the Father's Works
John 5:36 "...for the works which the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works that I do—testify about Me, that the Father has sent Me."
Thoughts to Live By: Focus on fulfilling the tasks God has given you, knowing that your actions testify to your relationship with Him.
Expecting Greater Works
John 14:10-12 "Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? ... Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves. Truly, truly I say to you, the one who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works..."
Thoughts to Live By: Have faith that God will work through you to accomplish great things, beyond what Jesus did, through His Spirit in you.
The Life Purpose of a Man
Protect People from All Threats
Physical, cultural, and educational threats are real. As followers of Jesus, we must be vigilant in safeguarding others.
Thoughts to Live By: Actively work to protect those around you from physical harm, cultural negativity, and educational shortcomings.
Provide for Real Needs
People have physical and psychological needs, including security, love, self-worth, mentoring, and spiritual guidance.
Thoughts to Live By: Strive to meet the needs of those around you, offering support and guidance in all aspects of life.
Nurture with Truth
Real truth, as revealed by God and Jesus, is impartial and makes sense of life. It is often diluted by false narratives.
Application: Commit to understanding and sharing God's truth, standing firm against falsehoods and misconceptions.
The Life Purpose of a Father
A father should reflect God's heart toward everyone he encounters, especially his children.
Thoughts to Live By: As a father, or a mentor to others, embody the love, protection, provision, and truth of God in your relationships, nurturing those in your care with the same dedication Jesus showed.