Unity and Mission
Series: MADE NEW
Speaker: James Barnett
Date: 4th September 2022
Passage: Romans 15:1-33
00:00:00 --> 00:00:07 I love hearing stories and seeing videos of the strong helping the weak.
00:00:07 --> 00:00:10 I was reading one this week of these two men.
00:00:11 --> 00:00:19 This is Matthew Rees on the left and David Wyeth on the right.
00:00:19 --> 00:00:25 This is at the very end of a marathon, 42 odd kilometers.
00:00:25 --> 00:00:29 This is with 300 meters left.
00:00:30 --> 00:00:35 And have you seen these videos of someone getting to the very end of the race and their legs just turned to jelly?
00:00:36 --> 00:00:37 And they're just collapsing?
00:00:38 --> 00:00:40 This is how I feel most days.
00:00:40 --> 00:00:42 But this is at the very end.
00:00:42 --> 00:00:49 And so Matthew Rees on the left saw his competition and did he think,
00:00:50 --> 00:00:52 I'm just going to run over the line, I'm going to take care of myself.
00:00:52 --> 00:00:55 No, he came around the final corner.
00:00:56 --> 00:00:58 He said, I saw a runner struggling.
00:00:58 --> 00:01:00 His legs were collapsing beneath him.
00:01:00 --> 00:01:05 Every time he tried to get up, he kept on falling back to the ground.
00:01:05 --> 00:01:08 I went over to him and said, come on, you can do this.
00:01:08 --> 00:01:10 And I tried to G him up.
00:01:10 --> 00:01:14 But every time he tried to get up, I realized he wasn't going to make it.
00:01:15 --> 00:01:17 I said, come on, we can do this.
00:01:17 --> 00:01:18 We'll do it together.
00:01:18 --> 00:01:19 We'll cross this line together.
00:01:20 --> 00:01:21 And so he helps him up.
00:01:21 --> 00:01:25 But the strong helps the weak.
00:01:25 --> 00:01:28 Add a disadvantage to himself.
00:01:29 --> 00:01:32 Just as easily he could have finished the race.
00:01:33 --> 00:01:38 Just as easily he could have run past, shouted encouragement and kept going.
00:01:38 --> 00:01:43 But no, he goes back and lifts him up and helps him across the line.
00:01:44 --> 00:01:46 How do we use our strength?
00:01:46 --> 00:01:55 If you were in that situation, at the end of those 42 kilometers, you've got 300 meters left,
00:01:55 --> 00:02:01 and you see a person collapsing on the ground, would you just run past them without even a thought?
00:02:02 --> 00:02:03 Would you shout encouragement?
00:02:04 --> 00:02:04 You can do it.
00:02:04 --> 00:02:06 I believe in you.
00:02:06 --> 00:02:13 Or would you go back and help them at a disadvantage to yourself?
00:02:13 --> 00:02:16 We are all fallen people.
00:02:17 --> 00:02:19 We are all strong in different ways.
00:02:19 --> 00:02:21 Some of us are physically strong.
00:02:21 --> 00:02:22 Some of us are mentally strong.
00:02:22 --> 00:02:24 Some of us are financially strong.
00:02:25 --> 00:02:31 But the challenge we face is a desire to strengthen ourselves and build up our own selves.
00:02:31 --> 00:02:33 And to not look after others.
00:02:35 --> 00:02:39 And there is a temptation of not helping the weak because it's hard.
00:02:41 --> 00:02:42 It'll slow me down.
00:02:42 --> 00:02:47 Or maybe, do you know what, I actually consider myself weak, so other people should be helping me.
00:02:49 --> 00:02:54 And at its worst, we forget how weak we are before our God.
00:02:55 --> 00:02:58 And how he has built us up and how he has helped us.
00:02:58 --> 00:03:01 We are coming to the end of Romans.
00:03:02 --> 00:03:09 And it has taken us on a wonderful journey of God's grace to undeserved people.
00:03:09 --> 00:03:16 And how God takes those people and how he breaks down barriers between Jews and Gentiles so that they can worship together.
00:03:17 --> 00:03:22 And there is now a picture of what it should look like when they gather together to worship God.
00:03:23 --> 00:03:25 Where the strong lift up and build.
00:03:25 --> 00:03:28 Where they are accepting of one another.
00:03:29 --> 00:03:33 In such a way that it overflows out of love for other people.
00:03:33 --> 00:03:35 To be people just like Jesus.
00:03:36 --> 00:03:38 And then we'll see how this plays out.
00:03:38 --> 00:03:39 Not just in individuals.
00:03:39 --> 00:03:40 Not just in a local church.
00:03:41 --> 00:03:44 But in an international picture with different churches.
00:03:45 --> 00:03:48 And so our challenge today as we go through Romans 15.
00:03:48 --> 00:03:53 Will be to encourage ourselves that we are strong.
00:03:53 --> 00:03:54 We are already strong.
00:03:55 --> 00:03:56 And we are accepted in Jesus.
00:03:57 --> 00:04:02 And that he calls us to use our strength to build up others.
00:04:02 --> 00:04:06 And to be accepting of others across the world.
00:04:06 --> 00:04:09 Let me pray for us as we jump into Romans 15.
00:04:09 --> 00:04:11 Heavenly Father, I thank you.
00:04:12 --> 00:04:15 That in your strength you have not left us.
00:04:16 --> 00:04:19 But that in your strength in Jesus you have picked us up.
00:04:19 --> 00:04:20 That you have loved us.
00:04:20 --> 00:04:24 Help us today as we consider your words to us.
00:04:26 --> 00:04:29 Lord, help it not just be an interesting word.
00:04:29 --> 00:04:31 Or an interesting part of the Bible.
00:04:32 --> 00:04:34 But Lord, help it to change us.
00:04:34 --> 00:04:35 To make us more like you.
00:04:36 --> 00:04:36 Amen.
00:04:38 --> 00:04:40 Today as we have a look at Romans 15.
00:04:40 --> 00:04:41 There are three points.
00:04:41 --> 00:04:42 You can have a look on your app.
00:04:43 --> 00:04:46 You can be taking notes on an old-fashioned piece of paper.
00:04:46 --> 00:04:47 With the pens in front of you if you like.
00:04:47 --> 00:04:52 The three points are, first of all, the strong and accepting.
00:04:53 --> 00:04:54 The travelling church planter.
00:04:55 --> 00:04:57 And the international church.
00:04:57 --> 00:04:59 As we go through this.
00:04:59 --> 00:05:00 We are going to start in verse 1.
00:05:00 --> 00:05:02 So have a look with me at verse 1.
00:05:05 --> 00:05:06 Romans 1.
00:05:06 --> 00:05:11 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak.
00:05:11 --> 00:05:13 And not to please ourselves.
00:05:13 --> 00:05:16 Each of us should please our neighbours for their good.
00:05:17 --> 00:05:18 To build them up.
00:05:19 --> 00:05:25 The people with power ought to use their power to build up those who are weak.
00:05:26 --> 00:05:31 The strong and powerful aren't to use that power just to build more strength.
00:05:31 --> 00:05:32 And to make themselves more comfortable.
00:05:32 --> 00:05:35 Previously in chapter 14.
00:05:35 --> 00:05:37 Which Aidan preached on last week.
00:05:37 --> 00:05:40 Paul spoke about the relationships within the church.
00:05:40 --> 00:05:42 And now he's actually extending that teaching.
00:05:43 --> 00:05:44 He uses this word neighbour.
00:05:45 --> 00:05:47 Which Jesus uses.
00:05:47 --> 00:05:49 Love your neighbour as yourself.
00:05:50 --> 00:05:53 It is not literally just the people in your circles.
00:05:53 --> 00:05:55 Just the people who live next door to you.
00:05:55 --> 00:05:56 Just the people you like.
00:05:56 --> 00:05:59 This is a word for all people.
00:06:00 --> 00:06:02 Love all people around you.
00:06:02 --> 00:06:04 Each of us should not just love.
00:06:04 --> 00:06:07 But seek to build up our neighbours.
00:06:09 --> 00:06:10 We please our neighbour.
00:06:10 --> 00:06:12 We look out for their interests.
00:06:12 --> 00:06:13 To build them up.
00:06:14 --> 00:06:16 And this is a picture of discipleship.
00:06:16 --> 00:06:19 This is not just a picture of avoiding conflict.
00:06:19 --> 00:06:22 Which we could have thought from last week.
00:06:22 --> 00:06:24 It's a picture of discipleship.
00:06:25 --> 00:06:27 It's the strong looking to build up the weak.
00:06:27 --> 00:06:28 But it is not just one way.
00:06:28 --> 00:06:30 It is not just I'm strong.
00:06:30 --> 00:06:31 You're weak.
00:06:31 --> 00:06:32 I'll always be strong.
00:06:32 --> 00:06:33 You'll always be weak.
00:06:33 --> 00:06:36 I'm the one who's always giving handouts to you.
00:06:36 --> 00:06:40 It is a picture of the strong building up the weak.
00:06:40 --> 00:06:43 So that the weak would become strong.
00:06:43 --> 00:06:45 On mind in particular.
00:06:46 --> 00:06:50 Were Christians worried about the impact of food that they ate.
00:06:51 --> 00:06:53 Whether it would make them clean or unclean.
00:06:53 --> 00:06:55 And damage their relationship with God.
00:06:56 --> 00:07:00 And so the strong who are aware that food just goes into the stomach.
00:07:01 --> 00:07:03 Doesn't actually impact our relationship with God.
00:07:03 --> 00:07:04 They're to bear with.
00:07:04 --> 00:07:05 They're to be strong with.
00:07:05 --> 00:07:09 And gentle with those who are weak.
00:07:10 --> 00:07:13 Building up the weak looks like understanding.
00:07:13 --> 00:07:15 Long-suffering and patience.
00:07:16 --> 00:07:20 Particularly with all of the different aspects of what Christianity looks like.
00:07:20 --> 00:07:22 There are many differences.
00:07:22 --> 00:07:25 When it comes to our world views.
00:07:26 --> 00:07:27 The way we are shaped.
00:07:27 --> 00:07:29 And what it means when we become Christians.
00:07:31 --> 00:07:33 Aidan last week reminded us that there are some issues.
00:07:33 --> 00:07:35 That are worth disputing.
00:07:36 --> 00:07:37 And some that are not.
00:07:38 --> 00:07:42 But the priority of this part is that we are to bear with and love others.
00:07:42 --> 00:07:44 We are to accept and love others.
00:07:45 --> 00:07:47 But we do not get this right all the time.
00:07:48 --> 00:07:52 Years ago I was leading a group of year 12 boys.
00:07:52 --> 00:07:53 And a Bible study.
00:07:53 --> 00:07:55 And a new young man joined the group.
00:07:56 --> 00:07:57 And it was exciting.
00:07:57 --> 00:08:01 And this group of boys love to get into deep theological discussions.
00:08:01 --> 00:08:03 And at one point in our discussion.
00:08:04 --> 00:08:04 We were.
00:08:04 --> 00:08:08 It turned out that there was a division in the group.
00:08:08 --> 00:08:10 There was the new guy.
00:08:11 --> 00:08:12 Disagreeing with everyone else.
00:08:13 --> 00:08:14 Including myself.
00:08:15 --> 00:08:18 And I would like to say that I gently led him.
00:08:19 --> 00:08:20 Patiently heard him.
00:08:20 --> 00:08:23 And over many months worked through his struggle.
00:08:23 --> 00:08:24 And what he thought.
00:08:25 --> 00:08:27 And I was the strong bearing with the weak.
00:08:27 --> 00:08:29 But I didn't.
00:08:30 --> 00:08:31 I was.
00:08:32 --> 00:08:34 I was probably nicely hard.
00:08:36 --> 00:08:38 This is what the Bible says.
00:08:38 --> 00:08:40 This is what you should believe.
00:08:41 --> 00:08:43 And I had all the best arguments.
00:08:43 --> 00:08:45 The best pieces of scripture to back me up.
00:08:45 --> 00:08:45 But I.
00:08:46 --> 00:08:48 I didn't bear with the weak.
00:08:48 --> 00:08:49 I was just strong.
00:08:50 --> 00:08:51 And so.
00:08:51 --> 00:08:53 He never returned to that Bible study.
00:08:53 --> 00:08:56 And so for us.
00:08:57 --> 00:08:57 In this context.
00:08:57 --> 00:08:58 When it comes to church.
00:08:58 --> 00:08:59 And life.
00:08:59 --> 00:09:01 There are many different ways.
00:09:01 --> 00:09:02 That we are strong.
00:09:02 --> 00:09:04 And we are called to bear with the weak.
00:09:05 --> 00:09:06 There are those who are mentally strong.
00:09:06 --> 00:09:07 Financially strong.
00:09:07 --> 00:09:08 Physically strong.
00:09:09 --> 00:09:11 We have many opportunities to be right.
00:09:12 --> 00:09:14 Or to bear with.
00:09:14 --> 00:09:15 And love.
00:09:16 --> 00:09:18 And this takes a lot of time.
00:09:19 --> 00:09:20 To build people up in Christ.
00:09:20 --> 00:09:21 Here is a picture.
00:09:22 --> 00:09:24 Of a man named Half Thor.
00:09:25 --> 00:09:26 He is.
00:09:27 --> 00:09:28 Europe's strongest man.
00:09:29 --> 00:09:30 He.
00:09:30 --> 00:09:31 Was the mountain.
00:09:32 --> 00:09:33 In the TV show Game of Thrones.
00:09:35 --> 00:09:36 This is not a body.
00:09:36 --> 00:09:37 You can grow quickly.
00:09:39 --> 00:09:40 Sorry.
00:09:40 --> 00:09:41 What was that Leslie?
00:09:42 --> 00:09:42 Not sure.
00:09:43 --> 00:09:44 This is.
00:09:44 --> 00:09:45 I'll take it off.
00:09:45 --> 00:09:46 There you go.
00:09:47 --> 00:09:48 The picture off.
00:09:48 --> 00:09:49 Not my own shirt.
00:09:49 --> 00:09:49 Thank you for.
00:09:49 --> 00:09:52 To build a body.
00:09:52 --> 00:09:53 A mountain.
00:09:53 --> 00:09:54 Of strength like that.
00:09:54 --> 00:09:55 Takes years.
00:09:55 --> 00:09:56 And years.
00:09:56 --> 00:09:57 And years.
00:09:57 --> 00:09:59 It requires the right diet.
00:10:00 --> 00:10:01 Putting the body.
00:10:01 --> 00:10:03 Under incredible stress.
00:10:03 --> 00:10:04 Damaging muscles.
00:10:04 --> 00:10:06 So that they are forced to get better.
00:10:06 --> 00:10:07 And bigger.
00:10:07 --> 00:10:08 And years.
00:10:08 --> 00:10:09 And years.
00:10:09 --> 00:10:10 Of training.
00:10:11 --> 00:10:14 When it comes to building someone up.
00:10:14 --> 00:10:15 In discipleship.
00:10:15 --> 00:10:17 It is not just something we can say.
00:10:17 --> 00:10:18 There is the piece of Bible.
00:10:19 --> 00:10:21 Why don't you understand it?
00:10:23 --> 00:10:24 Bearing with the weak.
00:10:26 --> 00:10:27 And discipleship.
00:10:27 --> 00:10:29 Is something that takes time.
00:10:30 --> 00:10:32 We need the right diet.
00:10:33 --> 00:10:34 The right diet of the word of God.
00:10:35 --> 00:10:39 But we also must be willing for discipleship to take a long time.
00:10:39 --> 00:10:40 And so for you yourself.
00:10:40 --> 00:10:43 If you have been feeling frustrated with where you are at.
00:10:43 --> 00:10:44 Following God.
00:10:44 --> 00:10:45 Or your pain.
00:10:45 --> 00:10:47 In that you are not as close to following God.
00:10:47 --> 00:10:48 As you want to be.
00:10:49 --> 00:10:51 Understand that it does take time.
00:10:53 --> 00:10:55 Come back to God in his word.
00:10:56 --> 00:10:57 And know.
00:10:57 --> 00:10:59 That we continue to grow in him.
00:11:00 --> 00:11:02 Maybe we won't look like a mountain of a man.
00:11:02 --> 00:11:02 But we will.
00:11:03 --> 00:11:04 More and more look like Christ.
00:11:05 --> 00:11:06 As we grow following him.
00:11:06 --> 00:11:10 And the motive here for us.
00:11:10 --> 00:11:11 Is in verse 3.
00:11:11 --> 00:11:12 Oh it's already on the screen.
00:11:12 --> 00:11:13 Verse 3.
00:11:13 --> 00:11:15 Even Christ did not please himself.
00:11:16 --> 00:11:17 But as it is written.
00:11:17 --> 00:11:19 The insults of those who insult you.
00:11:19 --> 00:11:21 Have fallen on me.
00:11:22 --> 00:11:24 Jesus is both our example.
00:11:24 --> 00:11:26 And our motivation.
00:11:27 --> 00:11:29 Even Christ.
00:11:30 --> 00:11:33 Even the eternal second person of the Trinity.
00:11:34 --> 00:11:36 Even the one who is deserving of all praise.
00:11:36 --> 00:11:38 Even the very strongest.
00:11:39 --> 00:11:41 Did not please himself.
00:11:41 --> 00:11:43 He did not build up his own strength.
00:11:43 --> 00:11:44 Or his own reputation.
00:11:44 --> 00:11:46 But came to serve.
00:11:47 --> 00:11:49 Came to be mocked.
00:11:49 --> 00:11:50 Came to be tortured.
00:11:51 --> 00:11:51 And killed.
00:11:52 --> 00:11:53 By God's enemies.
00:11:54 --> 00:11:56 He did that to serve.
00:11:56 --> 00:11:57 And build up.
00:11:58 --> 00:11:58 Us.
00:12:00 --> 00:12:02 And we are to have the same attitude as Christ.
00:12:03 --> 00:12:06 To be willing to sacrificially serve.
00:12:06 --> 00:12:07 And build up.
00:12:07 --> 00:12:09 Even when it is costly.
00:12:09 --> 00:12:11 Paul builds on this image.
00:12:12 --> 00:12:12 In verse 7.
00:12:13 --> 00:12:13 With another word.
00:12:15 --> 00:12:16 Accept one another.
00:12:17 --> 00:12:19 Just as Christ accepted you.
00:12:20 --> 00:12:22 In order to bring praise to God.
00:12:23 --> 00:12:24 Accept one another.
00:12:25 --> 00:12:26 Those three little words.
00:12:27 --> 00:12:28 Are incredibly simple.
00:12:29 --> 00:12:30 Accept one another.
00:12:31 --> 00:12:34 But they are also profoundly difficult.
00:12:34 --> 00:12:35 We.
00:12:35 --> 00:12:36 As people.
00:12:36 --> 00:12:38 Are so good at dividing.
00:12:39 --> 00:12:42 We divide over small and meaningless things.
00:12:42 --> 00:12:44 And big and important things.
00:12:44 --> 00:12:45 But as soon as church finishes.
00:12:45 --> 00:12:46 We'll divide.
00:12:46 --> 00:12:48 Some of us will go to the tea line.
00:12:48 --> 00:12:50 And some of us will go to the coffee line.
00:12:50 --> 00:12:51 But we are.
00:12:51 --> 00:12:54 We are people who are so quick to divide.
00:12:56 --> 00:12:57 Let alone Rome.
00:12:57 --> 00:12:58 And the church there.
00:12:58 --> 00:12:59 Coming out of.
00:12:59 --> 00:13:02 Cultural differences.
00:13:02 --> 00:13:02 Between.
00:13:03 --> 00:13:05 The Gentiles and the Jews of Rome.
00:13:05 --> 00:13:08 Trying to be a people following Jesus together.
00:13:09 --> 00:13:11 How easy it is to divide.
00:13:11 --> 00:13:12 Over the food they ate.
00:13:13 --> 00:13:15 Or their family background.
00:13:16 --> 00:13:17 And yet Paul says to them.
00:13:18 --> 00:13:18 Accept.
00:13:19 --> 00:13:20 One another.
00:13:21 --> 00:13:22 Accept.
00:13:23 --> 00:13:24 Take in.
00:13:24 --> 00:13:25 Receive.
00:13:26 --> 00:13:28 Bring this person into part of your life.
00:13:28 --> 00:13:30 Accept.
00:13:31 --> 00:13:32 And why?
00:13:32 --> 00:13:36 Because Jesus accepted you.
00:13:37 --> 00:13:41 Only by knowing that we are first accepted by Jesus.
00:13:41 --> 00:13:42 Can we accept anyone.
00:13:43 --> 00:13:47 When we attempted to think that we can earn our salvation and acceptance.
00:13:48 --> 00:13:51 We can easily compare ourselves to others.
00:13:51 --> 00:13:53 To find out how close we are to God.
00:13:54 --> 00:13:55 And so we can think.
00:13:55 --> 00:13:58 I'm better than Frank.
00:13:58 --> 00:13:59 Or I'm better than John.
00:13:59 --> 00:14:01 And so I'm feeling a little bit closer to God.
00:14:01 --> 00:14:02 I'm doing a bit better.
00:14:03 --> 00:14:03 And it.
00:14:05 --> 00:14:06 Inevitably results in insecurity.
00:14:07 --> 00:14:08 A critical spirit.
00:14:09 --> 00:14:11 Oh I'm better than these people.
00:14:11 --> 00:14:11 And so you.
00:14:11 --> 00:14:12 You need to.
00:14:12 --> 00:14:13 You need to shape up.
00:14:14 --> 00:14:15 And neither of those.
00:14:16 --> 00:14:17 Help us to accept.
00:14:17 --> 00:14:18 Others.
00:14:19 --> 00:14:20 Instead.
00:14:20 --> 00:14:20 We just say.
00:14:20 --> 00:14:21 Well you're not doing it right.
00:14:22 --> 00:14:23 You're not acceptable here.
00:14:23 --> 00:14:24 Because you don't fit the mold.
00:14:24 --> 00:14:26 Of what a Christian is supposed to look like.
00:14:28 --> 00:14:28 Father's Day.
00:14:28 --> 00:14:30 Is a wonderful day.
00:14:30 --> 00:14:31 To remind ourselves.
00:14:32 --> 00:14:33 That we have.
00:14:33 --> 00:14:34 A heavenly father.
00:14:34 --> 00:14:35 Who has.
00:14:35 --> 00:14:36 Accepted us.
00:14:36 --> 00:14:37 In Jesus.
00:14:38 --> 00:14:39 Who has adopted us.
00:14:39 --> 00:14:40 Into his family.
00:14:40 --> 00:14:42 The very best family.
00:14:43 --> 00:14:44 Not because of us.
00:14:44 --> 00:14:46 Whereas our biological fathers.
00:14:46 --> 00:14:47 That well.
00:14:47 --> 00:14:47 They kind of.
00:14:47 --> 00:14:49 Have to accept us.
00:14:49 --> 00:14:50 But God does not have to.
00:14:50 --> 00:14:50 And yet.
00:14:51 --> 00:14:52 Because of his great love for us.
00:14:52 --> 00:14:53 He adopts us.
00:14:53 --> 00:14:54 Into his family.
00:14:54 --> 00:14:55 And as John.
00:14:55 --> 00:14:56 Started.
00:14:56 --> 00:14:56 We get to.
00:14:56 --> 00:14:57 Call him Abba.
00:14:57 --> 00:14:58 Father.
00:14:59 --> 00:15:00 I think.
00:15:01 --> 00:15:02 I think this.
00:15:03 --> 00:15:03 To me.
00:15:03 --> 00:15:04 Is almost.
00:15:04 --> 00:15:06 The most significant part of.
00:15:06 --> 00:15:07 This part of Romans.
00:15:07 --> 00:15:07 Maybe all of Romans.
00:15:09 --> 00:15:09 Maybe.
00:15:10 --> 00:15:10 Maybe today.
00:15:11 --> 00:15:12 The very best thing.
00:15:12 --> 00:15:13 You could do.
00:15:14 --> 00:15:14 Is just.
00:15:15 --> 00:15:16 Take these words.
00:15:17 --> 00:15:18 And go home.
00:15:18 --> 00:15:19 And meditate on them.
00:15:20 --> 00:15:22 Christ has accepted.
00:15:22 --> 00:15:23 Me.
00:15:25 --> 00:15:26 He doesn't leave us.
00:15:27 --> 00:15:28 He doesn't leave us.
00:15:28 --> 00:15:29 To try and build ourselves up.
00:15:29 --> 00:15:31 But he accepts me.
00:15:32 --> 00:15:32 He accepts.
00:15:33 --> 00:15:33 You.
00:15:34 --> 00:15:36 In spite of all our flaws.
00:15:37 --> 00:15:37 And deficiencies.
00:15:38 --> 00:15:39 Despite our.
00:15:40 --> 00:15:41 Struggles with mental health.
00:15:41 --> 00:15:42 Despite the.
00:15:42 --> 00:15:43 The negative things you say.
00:15:43 --> 00:15:44 When you look in the mirror.
00:15:46 --> 00:15:48 Jesus has.
00:15:48 --> 00:15:48 Accepted you.
00:15:50 --> 00:15:51 You might be sitting here.
00:15:51 --> 00:15:52 Thinking.
00:15:52 --> 00:15:52 James.
00:15:52 --> 00:15:53 You don't.
00:15:53 --> 00:15:54 You don't really know me.
00:15:54 --> 00:15:56 You don't really know.
00:15:56 --> 00:15:56 Who I'm like.
00:15:56 --> 00:15:58 I am unacceptable.
00:16:00 --> 00:16:00 Father's day.
00:16:00 --> 00:16:01 Is just a reminder.
00:16:01 --> 00:16:02 That I'm not a good father.
00:16:03 --> 00:16:03 I've got a damaged.
00:16:03 --> 00:16:05 Relationship with my father.
00:16:05 --> 00:16:06 Surely.
00:16:06 --> 00:16:07 Jesus.
00:16:07 --> 00:16:08 Can't accept me.
00:16:09 --> 00:16:10 But he does.
00:16:11 --> 00:16:12 Not because.
00:16:12 --> 00:16:13 We are good enough.
00:16:13 --> 00:16:13 Not because.
00:16:13 --> 00:16:14 We are acceptable.
00:16:14 --> 00:16:15 But because.
00:16:15 --> 00:16:15 He is good.
00:16:17 --> 00:16:17 Have you caused.
00:16:17 --> 00:16:18 Conflict.
00:16:18 --> 00:16:18 And division.
00:16:19 --> 00:16:20 In your family.
00:16:20 --> 00:16:20 Jesus.
00:16:21 --> 00:16:22 Accepts you.
00:16:23 --> 00:16:24 Have you made mistakes.
00:16:24 --> 00:16:25 At work.
00:16:25 --> 00:16:26 Have you lost your job.
00:16:26 --> 00:16:26 Jesus.
00:16:27 --> 00:16:28 Accepts you.
00:16:29 --> 00:16:29 Jesus.
00:16:30 --> 00:16:31 Who knows.
00:16:31 --> 00:16:32 All of our flaws.
00:16:32 --> 00:16:34 And our hurts.
00:16:34 --> 00:16:35 And our pains.
00:16:35 --> 00:16:36 He.
00:16:36 --> 00:16:37 Accepts you.
00:16:39 --> 00:16:40 Brothers and sisters.
00:16:40 --> 00:16:40 I feel like stopping there.
00:16:40 --> 00:16:41 I feel like.
00:16:41 --> 00:16:41 Do you know what.
00:16:41 --> 00:16:42 If there's.
00:16:42 --> 00:16:44 If there's any value today.
00:16:44 --> 00:16:45 It is just for us.
00:16:45 --> 00:16:46 To sit in this.
00:16:46 --> 00:16:48 If we were people.
00:16:48 --> 00:16:49 Who went out of here.
00:16:49 --> 00:16:49 Knowing.
00:16:50 --> 00:16:51 Jesus accepts me.
00:16:52 --> 00:16:53 And then we did the first part of this.
00:16:53 --> 00:16:53 First.
00:16:54 --> 00:16:54 Do you know what.
00:16:54 --> 00:16:55 I'm going to accept other people.
00:16:57 --> 00:16:58 If we were that kind of church.
00:16:58 --> 00:16:59 That's.
00:16:59 --> 00:17:00 That's all we need to be.
00:17:00 --> 00:17:00 I'm going to accept.
00:17:03 --> 00:17:04 But unfortunately.
00:17:05 --> 00:17:06 We quickly forget.
00:17:06 --> 00:17:08 That God accepts me.
00:17:09 --> 00:17:11 And overlooks all of my issues.
00:17:11 --> 00:17:12 And overlooks all of my sins.
00:17:12 --> 00:17:14 And I will be judgmental on other people.
00:17:15 --> 00:17:17 And I actually become more judgmental than God.
00:17:18 --> 00:17:19 Well God might accept you.
00:17:19 --> 00:17:20 But I don't accept you.
00:17:21 --> 00:17:21 And.
00:17:21 --> 00:17:22 And you need to change.
00:17:25 --> 00:17:26 When we as a church.
00:17:26 --> 00:17:26 Know.
00:17:27 --> 00:17:29 How strong Jesus is.
00:17:29 --> 00:17:30 And how he builds us up.
00:17:31 --> 00:17:32 When we sit in the joy.
00:17:32 --> 00:17:33 And we pray that Jesus accepts us.
00:17:33 --> 00:17:34 We have.
00:17:35 --> 00:17:36 A wonderful picture.
00:17:36 --> 00:17:37 Of what bearing with others.
00:17:38 --> 00:17:40 And accepting other people looks like.
00:17:40 --> 00:17:41 Regardless of.
00:17:42 --> 00:17:43 Cultural differences.
00:17:43 --> 00:17:44 Theological differences.
00:17:46 --> 00:17:48 Brothers and sisters.
00:17:49 --> 00:17:50 A danger for us.
00:17:50 --> 00:17:52 Is that we can be tempted to think.
00:17:52 --> 00:17:53 That everyone should look like.
00:17:54 --> 00:17:55 Me.
00:17:55 --> 00:17:56 Everyone should have a.
00:17:56 --> 00:17:58 A version of Christianity like me.
00:17:58 --> 00:17:58 I'm right.
00:17:58 --> 00:17:59 Jesus accepts me.
00:17:59 --> 00:18:01 And so everyone should look like me.
00:18:01 --> 00:18:03 And that assumes that we.
00:18:03 --> 00:18:04 Are the perfect Christian.
00:18:04 --> 00:18:05 It assumes that we are right.
00:18:05 --> 00:18:06 We are the finished product.
00:18:07 --> 00:18:10 And we forget that Jesus is still building us up.
00:18:10 --> 00:18:11 To look like him.
00:18:12 --> 00:18:13 And the second thing.
00:18:14 --> 00:18:15 It assumes that difference.
00:18:15 --> 00:18:16 Equals.
00:18:16 --> 00:18:17 Wrong.
00:18:17 --> 00:18:18 The way.
00:18:18 --> 00:18:19 People sing.
00:18:19 --> 00:18:20 Or pray.
00:18:20 --> 00:18:21 Or read their Bible.
00:18:21 --> 00:18:22 They do it different.
00:18:22 --> 00:18:23 So it must be wrong.
00:18:23 --> 00:18:24 But here.
00:18:24 --> 00:18:26 Jesus calls us.
00:18:26 --> 00:18:27 To accept.
00:18:28 --> 00:18:29 To accept.
00:18:30 --> 00:18:31 And understand.
00:18:31 --> 00:18:32 Before we correct.
00:18:34 --> 00:18:35 This is how the church.
00:18:36 --> 00:18:37 Is called to function.
00:18:38 --> 00:18:39 It's called to be on mission.
00:18:40 --> 00:18:41 United by Jesus.
00:18:42 --> 00:18:43 And where Paul goes after this.
00:18:43 --> 00:18:44 Is quite interesting.
00:18:45 --> 00:18:45 He says.
00:18:45 --> 00:18:47 This is who the church is to be.
00:18:47 --> 00:18:48 To be strong.
00:18:48 --> 00:18:49 And bear with the weak.
00:18:49 --> 00:18:50 To be accepting of the other.
00:18:50 --> 00:18:51 Of others.
00:18:51 --> 00:18:53 And when we do this.
00:18:54 --> 00:18:55 People are saved.
00:18:56 --> 00:18:58 And in the middle.
00:18:58 --> 00:18:59 From verse 9 to 12.
00:18:59 --> 00:19:01 We get this list of quotes.
00:19:01 --> 00:19:03 Of all of the Old Testament.
00:19:04 --> 00:19:04 Paul quotes.
00:19:05 --> 00:19:06 Four different parts.
00:19:06 --> 00:19:08 That summarize the entirety of the Old Testament.
00:19:09 --> 00:19:10 And so when we are accepting.
00:19:11 --> 00:19:12 God gets glorified.
00:19:12 --> 00:19:15 And the nations get to know Jesus.
00:19:16 --> 00:19:17 And so verse 9 says.
00:19:18 --> 00:19:20 There's praise amongst the Gentiles.
00:19:20 --> 00:19:20 Verse 10.
00:19:21 --> 00:19:22 Rejoice you Gentiles.
00:19:22 --> 00:19:23 You get to know Jesus.
00:19:24 --> 00:19:24 Verse 11.
00:19:24 --> 00:19:26 Praise the Lord you Gentiles.
00:19:26 --> 00:19:27 Verse 12.
00:19:28 --> 00:19:29 In Jesus.
00:19:29 --> 00:19:30 The root of Jesse.
00:19:31 --> 00:19:32 The Gentiles will hope.
00:19:33 --> 00:19:35 That's where this is pointing.
00:19:36 --> 00:19:39 It is not just that we would be an accepting and loving community here.
00:19:39 --> 00:19:44 But it would actually be a place where people come into God's family.
00:19:44 --> 00:19:46 From all across the world.
00:19:49 --> 00:19:52 Yesterday my entire family did park run for the first time.
00:19:53 --> 00:19:57 It is something that has been mentioned far too many times from this pulpit.
00:19:57 --> 00:20:04 But one of the unique things that stood out to my family was how accepting everybody was.
00:20:05 --> 00:20:08 Like I'm there running with my two littlest kids.
00:20:09 --> 00:20:09 And running.
00:20:10 --> 00:20:10 Running.
00:20:10 --> 00:20:14 Trying to get them to continue moving in the right direction.
00:20:14 --> 00:20:16 And there are random people running past.
00:20:16 --> 00:20:17 Going great job guys.
00:20:17 --> 00:20:18 You can do it.
00:20:18 --> 00:20:19 You can keep coming.
00:20:20 --> 00:20:20 You can keep going.
00:20:21 --> 00:20:22 Even when we'd finished.
00:20:22 --> 00:20:26 One of the little kids we know from this church.
00:20:26 --> 00:20:27 Came back and ran with us.
00:20:28 --> 00:20:29 The strong bearing with the weak.
00:20:30 --> 00:20:31 Running with us.
00:20:32 --> 00:20:34 And it's like this is such a wonderful welcoming community.
00:20:34 --> 00:20:36 Accepting us even though that we're very slow.
00:20:37 --> 00:20:38 I want to come back next week.
00:20:39 --> 00:20:40 What if we were a church like that?
00:20:41 --> 00:20:43 A people who were accepting.
00:20:44 --> 00:20:44 And caring.
00:20:45 --> 00:20:46 And walking with others.
00:20:49 --> 00:20:50 God has been working throughout history.
00:20:51 --> 00:20:52 So that the Gentiles.
00:20:52 --> 00:20:54 The people who weren't God's people.
00:20:54 --> 00:20:55 Could be accepted by him.
00:20:56 --> 00:20:56 To his praise.
00:20:56 --> 00:20:57 And to his glory.
00:20:58 --> 00:21:00 It's always been God's plan.
00:21:00 --> 00:21:02 To accept other people in.
00:21:02 --> 00:21:03 And so.
00:21:03 --> 00:21:04 We do what God does.
00:21:05 --> 00:21:07 We welcome people in.
00:21:07 --> 00:21:09 Into our family first.
00:21:10 --> 00:21:11 Before we.
00:21:12 --> 00:21:12 Correct them.
00:21:12 --> 00:21:13 Or train them.
00:21:13 --> 00:21:14 Or rebuke them.
00:21:14 --> 00:21:15 In God's word.
00:21:16 --> 00:21:17 This is the heart of God's.
00:21:17 --> 00:21:19 Good gospel to us.
00:21:19 --> 00:21:20 That we are accepted.
00:21:20 --> 00:21:21 Before we are built up.
00:21:23 --> 00:21:24 God accepts the people to himself.
00:21:25 --> 00:21:26 Grows them as disciples.
00:21:27 --> 00:21:28 And they are to accept others.
00:21:29 --> 00:21:30 Who grow as disciples.
00:21:30 --> 00:21:32 It is a non-stop cycle.
00:21:33 --> 00:21:35 To see the world won for Jesus.
00:21:36 --> 00:21:37 And Paul.
00:21:37 --> 00:21:39 Is a wonderful example of this.
00:21:39 --> 00:21:39 That's been my.
00:21:39 --> 00:21:40 First point.
00:21:40 --> 00:21:41 That's the long point.
00:21:42 --> 00:21:43 We've got two short points.
00:21:43 --> 00:21:44 After this.
00:21:44 --> 00:21:45 The second point.
00:21:45 --> 00:21:46 We see Paul.
00:21:46 --> 00:21:47 The traveling church planter.
00:21:48 --> 00:21:49 For Paul.
00:21:49 --> 00:21:51 In response to being accepted by Jesus.
00:21:52 --> 00:21:53 He is going around.
00:21:53 --> 00:21:54 Starting churches.
00:21:55 --> 00:21:55 Accepting others.
00:21:57 --> 00:21:58 And.
00:21:59 --> 00:21:59 Going to a people.
00:22:00 --> 00:22:00 Who are very different to him.
00:22:01 --> 00:22:02 He was a Jew.
00:22:02 --> 00:22:04 Who'd lived all his life as a Jew.
00:22:04 --> 00:22:05 And he's going to Gentiles.
00:22:06 --> 00:22:07 Who are very different.
00:22:07 --> 00:22:10 In response to God.
00:22:11 --> 00:22:11 Accepting him.
00:22:12 --> 00:22:13 He joyfully goes to the Gentiles.
00:22:14 --> 00:22:16 Have a look at verse 15 with me.
00:22:17 --> 00:22:18 Because of the grace.
00:22:18 --> 00:22:18 Oh.
00:22:19 --> 00:22:19 Hang on.
00:22:20 --> 00:22:20 Verse 15.
00:22:20 --> 00:22:22 Because of the grace God gave me.
00:22:22 --> 00:22:23 To be a minister of Christ Jesus.
00:22:23 --> 00:22:24 To the Gentiles.
00:22:24 --> 00:22:26 He gave me the priestly duty.
00:22:26 --> 00:22:27 Of proclaiming.
00:22:27 --> 00:22:28 The gospel of God.
00:22:29 --> 00:22:30 So that the Gentiles.
00:22:30 --> 00:22:31 Might become an offering.
00:22:32 --> 00:22:33 Acceptable to God.
00:22:35 --> 00:22:36 Sharing his faith.
00:22:36 --> 00:22:37 Accepting others.
00:22:37 --> 00:22:38 And seeing them discipled.
00:22:38 --> 00:22:38 To know and love Jesus.
00:22:39 --> 00:22:40 Is not just an add-on.
00:22:40 --> 00:22:41 To Paul's life.
00:22:42 --> 00:22:43 It is central.
00:22:43 --> 00:22:44 To his life.
00:22:44 --> 00:22:45 And for Paul.
00:22:45 --> 00:22:46 It looks quite unique.
00:22:47 --> 00:22:49 It has always been my ambition.
00:22:49 --> 00:22:50 To preach the gospel.
00:22:50 --> 00:22:52 Where Christ was not known.
00:22:53 --> 00:22:54 So that I would not be building.
00:22:54 --> 00:22:56 On someone else's foundation.
00:22:56 --> 00:22:58 This is quite an interesting aspect.
00:22:58 --> 00:22:58 Of Paul's ministry.
00:22:59 --> 00:23:02 He is a unique church planter.
00:23:03 --> 00:23:05 He is going to places.
00:23:05 --> 00:23:06 That were unreached.
00:23:06 --> 00:23:08 So he could plant churches.
00:23:08 --> 00:23:10 It is pioneering work.
00:23:11 --> 00:23:13 There were plenty of Christian pastors.
00:23:14 --> 00:23:16 And teachers who stayed where they were.
00:23:16 --> 00:23:17 But for Paul.
00:23:17 --> 00:23:18 He went to new places.
00:23:19 --> 00:23:19 And planted churches.
00:23:20 --> 00:23:21 He went to the places.
00:23:21 --> 00:23:23 That were hard.
00:23:23 --> 00:23:24 That were furthest to reach.
00:23:25 --> 00:23:26 And this is why.
00:23:26 --> 00:23:27 In verse 22.
00:23:27 --> 00:23:28 It says.
00:23:28 --> 00:23:29 He had been hindered.
00:23:29 --> 00:23:30 From going to Rome.
00:23:31 --> 00:23:31 Because.
00:23:32 --> 00:23:33 There was already a church in Rome.
00:23:33 --> 00:23:35 So he doesn't have the same urgency.
00:23:35 --> 00:23:36 To go to Rome.
00:23:36 --> 00:23:37 Because there's already Christians there.
00:23:37 --> 00:23:39 So I've got to go to these other places.
00:23:39 --> 00:23:40 And plant churches.
00:23:40 --> 00:23:41 But I want to come to you.
00:23:42 --> 00:23:43 And this is truly wonderful.
00:23:43 --> 00:23:44 We need people.
00:23:44 --> 00:23:46 To be sent out.
00:23:46 --> 00:23:47 To do pioneering work.
00:23:48 --> 00:23:49 We need people.
00:23:49 --> 00:23:50 To go where there aren't many churches.
00:23:51 --> 00:23:53 So that they might get to know Jesus.
00:23:54 --> 00:23:54 Now this is.
00:23:54 --> 00:23:56 This is key to the reason.
00:23:56 --> 00:23:57 Why Sam and Sally Lowe.
00:23:57 --> 00:23:58 Left Sydney.
00:23:59 --> 00:24:01 There are so many good churches.
00:24:01 --> 00:24:01 Here in Sydney.
00:24:02 --> 00:24:03 You could drive 10 minutes.
00:24:03 --> 00:24:04 In any direction.
00:24:04 --> 00:24:05 And go past 10 good churches.
00:24:06 --> 00:24:08 We are wonderfully blessed.
00:24:08 --> 00:24:09 Here in Sydney.
00:24:10 --> 00:24:10 It is good.
00:24:12 --> 00:24:14 But out of our strength.
00:24:14 --> 00:24:16 Do we just seek to build up.
00:24:17 --> 00:24:19 The kingdom of St. Paul's Chatswood.
00:24:19 --> 00:24:20 Are we just seeking to build up.
00:24:21 --> 00:24:22 And have more and more Christians.
00:24:22 --> 00:24:23 Here in Sydney.
00:24:23 --> 00:24:25 Now there are millions of people.
00:24:25 --> 00:24:26 Unreached in Sydney.
00:24:26 --> 00:24:27 So it is a good thing.
00:24:28 --> 00:24:30 But it is also good to support.
00:24:30 --> 00:24:32 Those who are going.
00:24:32 --> 00:24:33 To places.
00:24:33 --> 00:24:35 Where there is great need.
00:24:36 --> 00:24:37 And so Sam and Sally Lowe.
00:24:37 --> 00:24:38 Are on the Gold Coast.
00:24:38 --> 00:24:39 A place.
00:24:39 --> 00:24:40 Which is beautiful.
00:24:41 --> 00:24:42 But doesn't have many Christians.
00:24:42 --> 00:24:43 And doesn't have many churches.
00:24:45 --> 00:24:46 Richard and Ali McGrath.
00:24:47 --> 00:24:47 Are in Berlin.
00:24:47 --> 00:24:49 We are going to hear about them more next week.
00:24:50 --> 00:24:50 They are in Germany.
00:24:51 --> 00:24:53 A country that has a wonderful.
00:24:53 --> 00:24:54 Christian heritage.
00:24:56 --> 00:24:56 In name.
00:24:57 --> 00:24:58 And buildings only.
00:25:00 --> 00:25:01 From what I hear.
00:25:02 --> 00:25:03 Is that there are so few Christians.
00:25:03 --> 00:25:05 And Bible believing churches.
00:25:05 --> 00:25:06 The McGrath said to me.
00:25:06 --> 00:25:07 Just recently.
00:25:07 --> 00:25:09 That there are so many Muslims.
00:25:09 --> 00:25:10 Moving into the area.
00:25:10 --> 00:25:13 They see that Christianity has failed.
00:25:14 --> 00:25:16 Because you have building.
00:25:16 --> 00:25:16 After building.
00:25:17 --> 00:25:19 After very impressive building.
00:25:19 --> 00:25:21 That are empty.
00:25:22 --> 00:25:24 And so the people coming in.
00:25:24 --> 00:25:26 See the church has failed.
00:25:26 --> 00:25:27 In Germany.
00:25:27 --> 00:25:28 Ironically.
00:25:28 --> 00:25:29 They ring the bells.
00:25:29 --> 00:25:30 They ring the bells.
00:25:30 --> 00:25:31 They ring the bells.
00:25:32 --> 00:25:32 At 11 o'clock.
00:25:32 --> 00:25:33 A call to worship.
00:25:34 --> 00:25:35 And nobody goes.
00:25:37 --> 00:25:38 It's failed.
00:25:39 --> 00:25:41 There are not vibrant communities of Christians.
00:25:41 --> 00:25:42 And so.
00:25:42 --> 00:25:43 We want to support.
00:25:44 --> 00:25:44 The McGrath.
00:25:45 --> 00:25:47 Because they've planted a church.
00:25:47 --> 00:25:48 They're raising.
00:25:48 --> 00:25:50 Christian leaders.
00:25:50 --> 00:25:51 To be doing that work.
00:25:51 --> 00:25:53 They're seeing people come to know and love him.
00:25:53 --> 00:25:55 We need to continue.
00:25:55 --> 00:25:57 To send trained people.
00:25:57 --> 00:25:58 To train people like Paul was.
00:25:59 --> 00:26:00 To start churches.
00:26:01 --> 00:26:02 And so brothers and sisters.
00:26:03 --> 00:26:04 Let me ask you.
00:26:04 --> 00:26:06 What is God calling you to do?
00:26:07 --> 00:26:08 Is it possible?
00:26:08 --> 00:26:11 He's calling you to go somewhere out of your context.
00:26:12 --> 00:26:13 Out of your comfort zone.
00:26:13 --> 00:26:16 It could be as simple as.
00:26:17 --> 00:26:18 Sharing your faith at work.
00:26:19 --> 00:26:20 Or potentially.
00:26:21 --> 00:26:22 It could be that God wants to train.
00:26:22 --> 00:26:23 And equip you.
00:26:24 --> 00:26:25 To go somewhere else.
00:26:26 --> 00:26:27 To start a new church.
00:26:28 --> 00:26:29 To support Christians.
00:26:29 --> 00:26:30 In that place.
00:26:31 --> 00:26:33 But we won't all go.
00:26:34 --> 00:26:37 It is good that there is a church here in Chatswood.
00:26:37 --> 00:26:38 For the saints to gather.
00:26:39 --> 00:26:39 It is good.
00:26:40 --> 00:26:41 That we are here.
00:26:41 --> 00:26:44 Not everyone is a missionary.
00:26:45 --> 00:26:46 The whole pastoral team.
00:26:47 --> 00:26:48 Thinks it is good to be in Chatswood.
00:26:48 --> 00:26:49 Otherwise there would not be.
00:26:50 --> 00:26:51 A team here to be bringing you the gospel.
00:26:53 --> 00:26:54 But while we are here.
00:26:55 --> 00:26:56 We get to support the ministry.
00:26:56 --> 00:26:57 Of the international church.
00:26:58 --> 00:26:59 Final point this morning.
00:26:59 --> 00:27:00 The international church.
00:27:00 --> 00:27:02 Paul talks about this church.
00:27:02 --> 00:27:05 In the last part of his letters.
00:27:06 --> 00:27:07 And it's often just.
00:27:07 --> 00:27:09 Something we can skip over.
00:27:09 --> 00:27:11 But we see this wonderful.
00:27:12 --> 00:27:12 Interconnected.
00:27:13 --> 00:27:14 International church.
00:27:14 --> 00:27:15 Supporting one another.
00:27:15 --> 00:27:16 Have a look with me.
00:27:16 --> 00:27:16 Verse 23.
00:27:18 --> 00:27:18 But now.
00:27:19 --> 00:27:22 That there is no more place for me to work in these regions.
00:27:22 --> 00:27:25 And since I have been longing for many years to visit you.
00:27:26 --> 00:27:28 I plan to do so when I go to Spain.
00:27:29 --> 00:27:31 I hope to see you while passing through.
00:27:31 --> 00:27:33 And to have you assist me on my journey there.
00:27:34 --> 00:27:36 After I have enjoyed your company for a while.
00:27:36 --> 00:27:39 Paul is planning on going to Spain.
00:27:39 --> 00:27:43 To do a pioneering church planning missionary work there.
00:27:43 --> 00:27:44 And he's going to go via Rome.
00:27:45 --> 00:27:48 And he's expecting that the church in Rome would support him.
00:27:49 --> 00:27:51 To have you assist me on my journey.
00:27:52 --> 00:27:55 Whether that's by having helpers to go with him.
00:27:55 --> 00:27:57 People like Timothy and Epaphrodites.
00:27:57 --> 00:27:59 Or just to send him with food.
00:27:59 --> 00:28:00 Or money.
00:28:00 --> 00:28:04 There is this expectation that the Roman church.
00:28:04 --> 00:28:09 Would help church plant via Paul into Spain.
00:28:10 --> 00:28:11 But that's going to come later.
00:28:11 --> 00:28:13 Because he's on his way to Jerusalem.
00:28:14 --> 00:28:17 Carrying money from the church in Macedonia.
00:28:17 --> 00:28:17 Have a look.
00:28:17 --> 00:28:18 Verse 25.
00:28:18 --> 00:28:20 Now however I am on my way to Jerusalem.
00:28:20 --> 00:28:22 In the service of the Lord's people there.
00:28:23 --> 00:28:26 For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution.
00:28:26 --> 00:28:28 For the poor among the Lord's people in Jerusalem.
00:28:28 --> 00:28:32 There had been a great drought and famine in Jerusalem.
00:28:33 --> 00:28:35 And so the church in Macedonia and Achaia.
00:28:35 --> 00:28:38 Sent Paul with money to go and give it to that church.
00:28:39 --> 00:28:41 Out of their financial strength.
00:28:41 --> 00:28:44 They are supporting the churches in Jerusalem.
00:28:45 --> 00:28:48 Spreading support for these fledgling churches.
00:28:48 --> 00:28:50 Was so important that Paul.
00:28:50 --> 00:28:51 The church planter.
00:28:52 --> 00:28:54 He is the one who is carrying the finances.
00:28:56 --> 00:28:58 But it's not only financial support.
00:28:58 --> 00:28:59 But it's prayer as well.
00:28:59 --> 00:29:00 Verse 30.
00:29:00 --> 00:29:01 I urge you brothers and sisters.
00:29:01 --> 00:29:03 By our Lord Jesus Christ.
00:29:03 --> 00:29:04 And by the love of the spirit.
00:29:04 --> 00:29:06 To join me in my struggle.
00:29:07 --> 00:29:09 By praying to God for me.
00:29:11 --> 00:29:13 God is the one who called Paul.
00:29:14 --> 00:29:15 He provides for us.
00:29:15 --> 00:29:18 So that we can support others out of our generosity.
00:29:19 --> 00:29:22 And Paul knows who is the one who is in control of all things.
00:29:22 --> 00:29:26 And he calls on the church to remember that too.
00:29:27 --> 00:29:28 For them to be praying.
00:29:29 --> 00:29:32 Because we get to be part of the mission that God is on about.
00:29:33 --> 00:29:34 And so brothers and sisters.
00:29:34 --> 00:29:38 Today is the first Sunday in mission month.
00:29:38 --> 00:29:39 All of September.
00:29:39 --> 00:29:43 The focus of this month is on those three words.
00:29:43 --> 00:29:44 Give.
00:29:44 --> 00:29:45 Pray.
00:29:45 --> 00:29:46 And share.
00:29:46 --> 00:29:50 And Romans 15 calls us to do these three things.
00:29:51 --> 00:29:52 To share the gospel.
00:29:53 --> 00:29:56 The good news that God has accepted us in Jesus.
00:29:58 --> 00:30:00 Let me encourage you to come to the training this afternoon.
00:30:00 --> 00:30:01 Four o'clock on Zoom.
00:30:01 --> 00:30:03 Do it from wherever you are.
00:30:03 --> 00:30:04 And so we can continue to think.
00:30:04 --> 00:30:08 What does it look like to share the gospel with other people?
00:30:08 --> 00:30:13 What does it look like to see other people accepted into God's family?
00:30:15 --> 00:30:20 And then come in a couple of weeks time to learn how to read the Bible one-to-one with other people.
00:30:21 --> 00:30:22 And so we want to share.
00:30:22 --> 00:30:23 But we also want to be praying.
00:30:24 --> 00:30:26 We want to pray for the spread of the gospel.
00:30:26 --> 00:30:28 For the church in the Gold Coast.
00:30:28 --> 00:30:30 For the church in Berlin.
00:30:31 --> 00:30:36 But as a church that we would also take the gospel to our city.
00:30:36 --> 00:30:39 And so come next Sunday afternoon as we pray.
00:30:40 --> 00:30:44 There's a guide in the back of the booklet for what you can be praying about this month.
00:30:45 --> 00:30:48 And finally this is a season that we would be a church.
00:30:48 --> 00:30:51 Just like Achaia and Macedonia and Rome.
00:30:52 --> 00:30:56 That we would be financially supporting the work of ministry across the world.
00:30:56 --> 00:30:57 And so we give.
00:30:58 --> 00:31:00 We give to the work in Berlin.
00:31:00 --> 00:31:02 We give to the work in the Gold Coast.
00:31:02 --> 00:31:06 God in his goodness to us has made us strong.
00:31:07 --> 00:31:08 He has accepted us.
00:31:09 --> 00:31:11 And we get to be a blessing to these other churches.
00:31:11 --> 00:31:13 And to the people around us.
00:31:13 --> 00:31:14 Let me pray that we would do that.
00:31:17 --> 00:31:18 Dear Heavenly Father.
00:31:19 --> 00:31:20 Our Lord.
00:31:21 --> 00:31:24 I thank you for your great love for us.
00:31:24 --> 00:31:27 That in Jesus you have accepted us.
00:31:27 --> 00:31:30 Despite who we are.
00:31:31 --> 00:31:33 Despite our struggles and our flaws.
00:31:33 --> 00:31:39 And you invite us to call others into your family.
00:31:40 --> 00:31:43 Help us to be an accepting people.
00:31:44 --> 00:31:49 Help us to be a people who reach out in love with the good news of the gospel.
00:31:50 --> 00:31:52 Not in rebuking and in correcting.
00:31:53 --> 00:31:55 But in generosity of spirit.
00:31:55 --> 00:31:55 Lord.
00:31:55 --> 00:31:56 And Lord.
00:31:56 --> 00:31:58 Out of your generosity to us.
00:31:59 --> 00:32:04 We ask that we would continue to support these churches.
00:32:04 --> 00:32:07 That are doing pioneering work across the world.
00:32:07 --> 00:32:07 Lord.
00:32:08 --> 00:32:09 Be with them today.
00:32:09 --> 00:32:12 Be with the McGraths as they prepare for church.
00:32:12 --> 00:32:15 Be with Sam and Sally as they are probably leading church right now.
00:32:17 --> 00:32:18 Lord.
00:32:18 --> 00:32:19 Be with them.
00:32:20 --> 00:32:24 As they continue to try and build something out of your goodness to them.
00:32:24 --> 00:32:24 Be with them.
00:32:24 --> 00:32:28 Be with them as they disciple and evangelize.
00:32:29 --> 00:32:33 So that more and more people would come to know and love you for your glory.
00:32:34 --> 00:32:36 We pray this in Jesus name.
00:32:36 --> 00:32:36 Amen.