
***messages in this series are based on Andy Stanley’s book “Irresistible: Reclaiming the New that Jesus Unleashed for the World”
Our
matters -
If you want to be
If you want to make a difference, you care enough to consider your
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. —1 Peter 3:15-16
What’s the reason for your hope?
- It’s NOT
The Wrong Approach - “The Bible Says…”
“Our faith does not teeter on the brink of collapse based on the historicity, credibility, or even the believability of the Old Testament.” (Irresistible, page 290)
“The Bible did not create Christianity. Christianity created the Bible. The Christian faith existed for decades before there was a The Bible. Faith in Jesus existed for decades before the Bible as well.” (Irresistible, page 294)
We don’t believe because the Bible says. We believe because
Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection is the reason for our hope.
- Shouldn’t our approach reflect that?
A New Approach - “Jesus Did…”
“Resurrection is the horse. The Bible is the cart.” (Irresistible, page 299)
“First-century Christians prayed for boldness, not revival.” (Irresistible, page 275) - Acts 4:29-30
What is the faith of the next generation worth?
“When your mission is to win some and save some, you never give up influence unnecessarily. When your mission in life is to be right, maintaining influence isn’t important. …You can right kids right out the door.” —Irresistible, page 312