Deeper and More Beautiful

Key Takeaways

• The importance of maintaining a life of prayer and ministry of the Word, especially as church leaders

• The need for spiritual formation and ministry delegation as the church grows

• Building a gospel culture in the church while also growing through new believers

Study Questions

• Question 1

  The sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer, particularly adoration. Why is this of utmost importance for us?

• Question 2

  Pastor Scotty mentions losing his "first love" during a season of ministry. Have you ever experienced something similar in your spiritual journey? How did you reconnect with your passion for Christ?

• Question 3

  How can we balance spiritual growth (formation) with active ministry (delegation) in our own lives?

• Question 4

  The sermon addresses being entertained by preaching without truly believing or applying it. How can we ensure we're not just passive listeners but active participants in our faith?

• Question 5

  The sermon touches on the issue of "murmuring" in the early church. How can we address conflicts or complaints in our church community in a Christ-like manner?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Rekindling Our First Love

READING :

Revelation 2:1-7

DEVOTIONAL :

The church in Ephesus was commended for its perseverance and doctrinal purity, yet Jesus pointed out their critical flaw - they had forsaken their first love. Like the Ephesians, we too can become so caught up in doing good works that we neglect our relationship with Christ. Today, reflect on your own spiritual journey. Has your love for Jesus grown cold? Take time to remember the joy of your salvation and the wonder of God's grace. Pray for a renewed passion for Christ, asking him to restore the intimacy and awe you once had. Consider practical ways to prioritize your relationship with Jesus, such as setting aside dedicated time for prayer and worship.

APPLICATION :

Commit to spending time each day this week in adoration of God, focusing on his character and beauty.

Day 2 : The Power of Prayer

READING :

Acts 6:1-7

DEVOTIONAL :

The apostles recognized the vital importance of prayer, even amidst pressing ministry needs. They refused to neglect prayer and the ministry of the Word, understanding these as foundational to their calling. In our busy lives, prayer can often become an afterthought or a rushed ritual. Yet, it's through prayer that we commune with God and align our hearts with his will. Today, commit to deepening your prayer life. Start by spending time in adoration, focusing solely on God's character and attributes.

APPLICATION :

Identify one area of ministry or service in the church where you can get involved or deepen your involvement.

Day 3 : Serving with Wisdom and the Spirit

READING :

Galatians 5:22-26

DEVOTIONAL :

The early church sought leaders who were "full of the Spirit and wisdom" to serve the community. This reminds us that effective ministry flows from a Spirit-filled life. The fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - should be evident in our lives as we serve others. Reflect on how these qualities are manifesting in your life. Are there areas where you need to grow? Ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate this fruit in you, making you more effective in your service to God and others. Consider how you can use your gifts to serve in your church or community, relying on the Spirit's guidance and power.

APPLICATION :

Reflect on your current spiritual formation practices. Is there a new spiritual discipline you'd like to explore or an existing one you'd like to deepen?

Day 4 : Unity in Diversity

READING :

Ephesians 4:1-6

DEVOTIONAL :

The early church faced challenges in uniting diverse groups of believers. Today's passage reminds us of the importance of maintaining unity in the body of Christ. We are called to be humble, gentle, patient, and to bear with one another in love. This unity is not about uniformity, but about recognizing our shared faith in Christ. Reflect on any divisions your heart may harbor. Ask God to help you see fellow believers through his eyes of love.

APPLICATION :

Consider reaching out to someone from a different background or with different views, seeking to understand and appreciate their perspective. Pray for unity in your local church and the global body of Christ.

Day 5 : Sharing the Good News

READING :

Acts 8:26-40

DEVOTIONAL :

The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch reminds us of our calling to share the gospel. Like Stephen and Philip from Acts 6, we are all called to be witnesses of Christ's love and grace. As you read today's passage, notice how the Holy Spirit guided Philip. Are you open to God's leading in sharing your faith? Reflect on your own journey with Christ - what aspects of your testimony might resonate with someone who doesn't yet know Jesus? Pray for opportunities to share God's love with others this week.

APPLICATION :

If you're aware of any conflicts or "murmuring" in your circles, commit to addressing it in a gospel-centered way this week.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!

People: Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody! With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!

Psalm 98:4-6

Confession of Faith

From The Heidelberg Catechism

Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?

A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him.

Confession of Sin

Father, we confess that like the early church, we have neglected justice and overlooked the needs of others. We prioritize our own comfort over the care of the vulnerable. Forgive us for failing to serve as you call us. Make us a people who meet needs with wisdom and love, that your gospel may flourish among us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.

Isaiah 55:3

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 6:8-15, 7:51-60, 8:1