One Encounter with the Living God, can. Set you on a Lifetime pursuit of serving Him.
The Greatest vision in the Kingdom comes when we can connect our personal Vision the thing that God is building on this earth.
Psalm 92:13-14
They are planted in the house of the LORD; they flourish in the courts of our God.
14 They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green,
You will grow in your own vision, but you will flourish when you are planted.
1 Corinthians 12:19 MSG
But I also want you to think about how this keeps your significance from getting blown up into self-importance. For no matter how significant you are, it is only because of what you are a part of.
Vision is all about direction, but not just where you are going, but what are you becoming.
Matthew 4:19
And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
4 realms that God has called us to influence:
1- Jerusalem. Our lives, our family, our neighbors and our local church.
2- Judea- The larger city that we are apart of. Those that are on the outside looking at the church.
3- Samaria- Those that are different than you.
4- Ends of the earth. Those beyond your reach. Those that you can have a global impact on.
Ephesians 3:20
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Discussion Questions:
Briefly describe your first personal encounter with God. How did God change you? How is that encounter still affecting you today?
Read Psalm 92:13-14. What does it mean to be planted in the House of God? How is the planting connected with the flourishing?
What are the differences between your personal vision and the vision God has for His church?
Discuss the 4 areas of influence (Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth). What are you currently doing now to have influence? What are some ways that you can reach these areas, but you are not walking fully in yet? Are there any areas that scare you, or you are hesitant to reach? Why?
What is one thing that you can do this week to serve those in your Jerusalem?