Saying “Yes” to God’s Ask: Embracing Divine Purpose
Jeremy Skaggs   -   January 19, 2025

This sermon explores the tendency we have to question God’s choices, particularly when He calls us to action. We examine Biblical examples of individuals who tried to convince Jesus to alter His ministry, as well as those who felt inadequate when called by God. The message discusses the importance of saying “Yes” to God’s ask, both as individuals and as a church body, highlighting the eternal consequences of our response to His call.

Takeaways:

  • God’s choice in calling us is perfect and questioning it undermines His divine nature.
  • Distractions, even seemingly positive ones, can keep us from fulfilling God’s purpose for us.
  • Our primary calling as a church is to fulfill the Great Commission, making disciples and teaching obedience to Christ’s commands.

As we move forward, let’s prayerfully consider what God is asking of us individually and as a church.

Remember, the most spiritual act we can perform is one of obedience. By saying “Yes” to God’s ask, we open ourselves to experiencing His work in extraordinary ways.

May we all have the courage to respond with a resounding “Yes” when God calls us to action.

 

Blessings,

Pastor Jeremy

 

Saying Yes to God’s Ask: Embracing Divine Purpose

Sunday, 19 January 2025
Matthew 3.13-17

Challenging Divine Authority

  • Examples of groups trying to stop Jesus’ ministry
  1. Religious Leaders
  2. Herod Antipas
  3. Scribes
  4. Demons
  5. Local Populations
  6. Judas Iscariot

Questioning God’s Choice

  • Implications of doubting God’s decision
  • Biblical examples of people feeling inadequate
  1. Moses
  2. Gideon
  3. Jeremiah
  4. Zechariah

Call to Action

  • Possible ways God may be calling individuals

Call to be One Body

  • Considering God’s call for the church collectively

Distractions From Purpose

  • How distractions can lead churches astray

The Call to Obedience

  • Jesus’ response to John (Matthew 3.15)

Evaluating Our Mission

  • Consequences of our response to God’s call
  • The Great Commission (Matthew 28.18-20)

Embracing our Call

  • Importance of saying “Yes” to God’s ask
  • Consequences of saying “No”

Responding to His Call

  • What John would have missed (Matthew 3.16-17)
  • The importance of saying “Yes” as a church

 

Small Group Guide: Saying “Yes” to God’s Ask

Sermon Text: Matthew 3.13-17

Prayer:
Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to open hearts and minds to His message and guide the discussion.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Many people throughout history, including biblical figures, have tried to challenge or resist God’s plans.
  2. God often calls those who feel inadequate or unqualified, demonstrating His strength through our weakness.
  3. Distractions, even seemingly good ones, can prevent us from fulfilling God’s purpose for us.
  4. Obedience to God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense, is crucial for both individuals and the church.
  5. The Great Commission (Matthew 28.18-20) is God’s primary “ask” for the church.

Discussion Questions:

  1. The sermon mentions several groups that challenged Jesus’ ministry. Can you think of modern-day examples where people or institutions might resist God’s work?
  2. Have you ever felt like God made a mistake in choosing you for a task? How does the idea that God doesn’t make mistakes change your perspective?
  3. The sermon lists several biblical figures who initially doubted saying “yes” to God. Which of these stories resonates most with you and why?
  4. What are some common distractions that prevent individuals or churches from saying “yes” to God’s call?
  5. How can we discern between our personal preferences and God’s will for our lives or our church?
  6. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being a “Great Commission church.” What does this mean practically?
  7. How might our church look different if we “wiped the slate clean” and focused solely on saying “yes” to God’s ask?

Practical Applications:

  1. Personal Reflection: Take some time this week to prayerfully consider what Go might be asking you to do. Write down any insights or promptings you receive.
  2. Accountability Partners: Pair up with another group member to share your reflections and hold each other accountable in pursuing God’s call
  3. Church Involvement: Identify one area in the church where you can serve or contribute more actively, aligning with the Great Commission.
  4. Community Outreach: As a group, brainstorm and plan a small outreach activity that aligns with the church’s mission to make disciples.
  5. Scripture Memorization: Commit to memorizing Matthew 28.18-20 as a reminder of the church’s primary calling.

Closing Prayer:
End the session by praying for courage and willingness to say “yes” to God’s ask, both individually and as a church community.