"Going" Somewhere Planning With Purpose
Introduction:
This is the year where we must pick up our spirits, believe in God’s plan, and move on to hope & a positive spirit. 2 Tim. 1:6-9 Look at Paul’s axioms about progress in Phil. 3:12-15. We must forget some things in the past to be able to press on to the successes of the future. Let’s look ahead, ponder the problems and possible solutions, and plan our work. A church must "go" somewhere. It needs a sense of momentum. It needs focus & purpose; members need to have a common vision that excites them in their work.
I. Making plans; having a vision is biblical.
Pro. 16:1-3 – planning is a statement or testimony of our faith.
Paul had a plan for his life & preaching. His work in God’s kingdom.
Paul had a picture of where he was going, goals to meet, all with God’s help.
Making plans isn’t a lack of faith – it is a statement of faith!
Goals/planning are absolutely vital & help build our faith!
Planning helps supply energy to our work!
II. Remember…You’re on the team!
Teamwork as illustrated in scripture:
1 Sam. – David’s mighty men; Numbers 13 – 12 spies
Lk. 10 – 70 disciples sent out 2x2.
Gospels – 12 apostles’ w/3 years/training w/Jesus.
These individuals were commissioned with a task and became partners with a common goal.
III. Teamwork requires joint participation.
Biblically, teamwork is defined by fellowship.
Broad definitions: partnership; communion; contribution; joint participation; companionship; sharing; partakers. Acts 2:42
Thayer: association; community; joint participation.
What share do I have in this congregation?
Am I a spectator or a participant?
IV. Even with the best laid plans – wrinkles will come.
Conflict will come. Not that we go out looking for it – but its part of life & work.
Conflict is not necessarily a threat.
If handled right, conflict can be turned into an opportunity.
1 Cor. Is a conflict resolution letter. 10:31-11:1
In every conflict, God gives us an opportunity to exalt Him.
Conflict must be managed in a healthy way.
Unhealthy conflict has ruled in many congregations.
1. When going gets tough, teammates don’t jump out of the plane.
1 Cor. 12:28-31 – God has ordered the church to work together.
V. Let’s step out in faith.
God gives us tasks we "cannot" do.
God is still giving out God-sized tasks! 1. Let’s act on our faith!
Conclusion:
God is inviting us to action. To what may seem impossible.
Let’s have an active, get up & do obedience.