Sermon: Living Temples – Filled, Sent, and Shining for the Kingdom

Scriptures to Read and Ponder

• Exodus 40:34–35 – God’s glory fills the tabernacle.

• 1 Corinthians 3:16 – Believers as God’s temple filled with the Spirit.

• Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Holy Spirit for witness.

• Acts 4:29–31 – Boldness through the Holy Spirit.

• 1 Peter 2:4–5 – Believers as living stones and a holy priesthood.

• Ephesians 5:18–20 – Living as Spirit-filled children of light.

• John 20:21–22 – Sent by Jesus with the Holy Spirit.

• Matthew 28:18–20 – The Great Commission.

• Luke 4:18–19 – Jesus’ mission to proclaim freedom, healing, and hope.

Sermon Recap

Introduction

• The Israelites were led out of slavery by Moses, accompanied by God’s presence in a cloud and fire (Exodus 13:21–22).

• God’s glory filled the tabernacle and temple, symbolizing His dwelling among His people (Exodus 40:34–35; 2 Chronicles 7:1–3).

God’s New Temple

• In the New Testament, the temple is no longer a building but God’s people, individually and collectively (1 Corinthians 3:16).

• Believers are “living stones” built into a spiritual house, hosting God’s presence (1 Peter 2:4–5).

Filled with God’s Glory

• Just as the tabernacle and temple were filled with God’s glory, believers are filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1–4).

• The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness boldly and live transformed lives (Acts 1:8).

Living as Children of Light

• Believers are called to live as children of light, reflecting God’s love and righteousness in the world (Ephesians 5:8).

• This involves being Spirit-filled, singing psalms and hymns, and living in gratitude (Ephesians 5:18–20).

Sent on Mission

• Jesus sends His followers as Spirit-filled missionaries to proclaim good news, freedom, and healing (John 20:21–22; Luke 4:18–19).

• The Great Commission calls believers to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey Jesus’ commands (Matthew 28:18–20).

Call to Action

• Commit to being filled with the Spirit daily.

• Love extravagantly, serve selflessly, and speak boldly.

• Be God’s light in your family, workplace, and community.

Memorable Quotes

• “Those in whom the Spirit comes to live are God’s new Temple. They are, individually and corporately, places where heaven and earth meet.” – N.T. Wright

• “The temple is not a building—it’s God’s people filled with His presence.”

• “God’s glory doesn’t dwell in bricks and stones but in the hearts of His children.”

Questions for Discussion

1. What does it mean to you personally that you are a “living temple” of God?

2. How can you live as a “child of light” in your daily life? (Ephesians 5:8)

3. How does being filled with the Holy Spirit transform our witness and actions?

4. What steps can you take to embrace your role in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)?

5. Reflect on the quote from N.T. Wright—how does it inspire you to live as a place where “heaven and earth meet”?

Further Reading

• Exodus 13:21–22 – God’s presence guiding His people.

• Psalm 119:105 – God’s Word as a lamp to our feet.

• Romans 12:1–2 – Living as living sacrifices.

• Hebrews 12:28–29 – Worshiping God with reverence and awe.

• Books: The Temple and the Church’s Mission by G.K. Beale, Simply Christian by N.T. Wright.

Prayer Points

1. Thanksgiving: Praise God for making His dwelling among His people and for filling His Church with His Spirit.

2. Filling of the Spirit: Pray for a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit to live boldly and proclaim the Gospel.

3. Mission: Ask for courage and wisdom to live as Spirit-filled missionaries in your community.

4. Transformation: Pray that your life reflects the light and love of Christ in all you do.

5. Unity in the Body: Pray for the Church to live as one body, shining brightly for the Kingdom.

Sermon: Silver and Gold I Do Not Have

Scriptures to Read and Ponder

1. Acts 3:1–8 – The healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate.

2. Acts 2:1–4 – The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

3. Acts 2:17–21 – God’s promise to pour out His Spirit on all people.

4. Acts 1:8 – Receiving power through the Holy Spirit to be witnesses.

5. John 16:7 – Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as the Advocate.

6. Acts 3:16 – Faith in the name of Jesus brings healing.

Sermon Recap

1. The Miracle at the Beautiful Gate

• Peter and John encounter a lame man outside the temple.

• The man asks for money, but Peter offers something far greater: healing in the name of Jesus Christ.

• The man’s healing is both a physical restoration and a message of God’s power and compassion.

2. The Backstory: The Power of Pentecost

• Mission begins with power, not just activity (Acts 1:8).

• The Holy Spirit equips believers with dynamis—God’s supernatural enabling.

• Pentecost transforms followers into fearless witnesses.

3. God’s Heart for the Outcasts

• The lame man symbolizes those marginalized and excluded.

• God calls His people to align their hearts with His, reaching those “outside the temple.”

• The healing is a timely act of God’s grace (Greek: hōraios, meaning “beautiful” or “timely”).

4. What Do We Have to Offer?

• Peter declares, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you” (Acts 3:6).

• Believers carry the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, enabling them to be conduits of His power and love.

5. The Role of the Church: A Beautiful Gate

• The church is called to be a “Beautiful Gate,” a place where God’s presence and power invite the broken into fellowship and restoration.

• The name of Jesus brings healing, hope, and transformation.

Memorable Quotes

• “Some miracles in the Bible are not just miracles—they are messages!”

• “Mission begins with power, rather than with activity.”

• “The Holy Spirit doesn’t fill buildings; He fills His people so His people can fill the world.”

• “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you.”

• “The ‘Beautiful Gate’ is a picture of God’s open door for all people to encounter His beauty, wholeness, and acceptance.”

Questions for Discussion

1. Reflect on Acts 3:6—What “silver and gold” do we often prioritize over the spiritual power we carry through the Holy Spirit?

2. How does Pentecost (Acts 2) shape our understanding of the church’s mission today?

3. In what ways can Living Waters Church become a “Beautiful Gate” for our community?

4. Have you ever felt “outside the temple,” marginalized, or unseen? How does this story speak to those experiences?

5. How can we practically align our hearts with God’s heart for the outcasts?

Further Reading

1. Isaiah 61:1–3 – God’s mission to bring good news to the poor and bind up the brokenhearted.

2. Luke 4:18–19 – Jesus’ proclamation of His mission to bring freedom and healing.

3. Ephesians 3:16–21 – Paul’s prayer for spiritual strength and fullness in Christ.

4. Books:

• Forgotten God by Francis Chan (on the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives).

• Spirit-Led Evangelism by Che Ahn.

Prayer Points

1. Thanksgiving

• Praise God for His Spirit that empowers us to be witnesses.

• Thank Him for the transformative power of the name of Jesus.

2. Intercession

• Pray for those in the community who feel “outside the temple” and marginalized.

• Ask for boldness to share the Gospel and minister in Jesus’ name.

3. Petition

• Request a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit to ignite our mission.

• Pray for Living Waters Church to be a beacon of hope and restoration.

4. Personal Reflection

• Ask God to reveal areas in your life where you can offer what you have, in His name, to bless others.

Closing Reflection

May the Living Waters Church family be filled with the fire of Pentecost, empowered to lift up the broken and usher them into God’s presence. May we be a “Beautiful Gate” for our city, reflecting His love and glory.

Sermon: A Life Pleasing to God: Called to holiness

Sermon: A Life Pleasing to God

Sermon Guide: A Life Pleasing to God

Scriptures to Read and Ponder

1. Main Teaching Text:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:1–12

Key themes: Instruction, sanctification, brotherly love, and witness.

2. Additional Scriptures Shared:

• 1 John 2:27 – The anointing of the Holy Spirit as our teacher.

• 1 Corinthians 2:9–14 – Spiritual truths revealed by the Holy Spirit.

• John 8:32 – The truth will set you free.

• John 13:35 – Love as a distinguishing mark of discipleship.

• Romans 8:28–29 – All things work together for good for those called according to God’s purpose.

Sermon Recap

Introduction: Context of 1 Thessalonians

• Paul’s letter, written around A.D. 50–51, addresses a new church in Thessalonica, a multicultural city steeped in pagan practices.

• The believers were called to live holy lives despite societal pressures, similar to the challenges faced by Christians today.

Main Points of the Sermon

1. Receive Instruction (1 Thessalonians 4:1–2)

• Paul emphasizes the importance of living to please God.

• Holy Spirit-inspired teaching produces conviction and transformation, unlike worldly wisdom.

• Believers must welcome godly instruction, resisting the modern spirit of pride and individualism.

2. Pursue Purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3–6)

• God’s will is our sanctification—holiness in every aspect of life.

• The Greek word for sanctification (ἁγιασμός, hagiasmos) means being set apart for God.

• Paul calls for moral purity in a culture that normalized sexual immorality, reminding us that sanctification is a lifelong process.

3. Prioritize Power (1 Thessalonians 4:7–8)

• Living a holy life is empowered by the Holy Spirit.

• Rejecting holiness is equated with rejecting God.

• God works through every circumstance, molding us into Christlikeness.

4. Progress in Love (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10)

• The Thessalonians were already known for their love, yet Paul urges them to continue growing in love.

• The Greek word for brotherly love (φιλαδελφία, philadelphia) emphasizes affection and genuine care for one another.

• Jesus taught that love is the hallmark of His disciples (John 13:35).

5. Promote a Good Witness (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12)

• Paul encourages believers to lead quiet, diligent lives, respecting others and maintaining integrity.

• Everyday faithfulness, even in routine tasks, can powerfully reflect Christ.

• Illustration: A lamp on a dark street—steady and reliable, shining God’s light without drawing attention to itself.

Conclusion

• God calls us to a life of holiness, love, and faithful witness.

• We are being refined and empowered by His Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel.

Memorable Quotes

• “Discipleship is a long obedience in the same direction.” – Eugene Peterson

• “Truth is what sets us free, not emotional highs.”

• “Sanctification isn’t self-improvement; it’s being shaped into Christlikeness by God.”

• “Our ambition should be quiet faithfulness—steady illumination in a dark world.”

Questions for Discussion

1. How does Paul’s instruction to the Thessalonians apply to the modern challenges we face as believers?

2. What does sanctification mean in practical terms, and how can we pursue it daily?

3. In what ways can we progress in love toward one another in the church?

4. How can leading a quiet, faithful life be a powerful witness in today’s noisy world?

5. What obstacles make it difficult to live a life pleasing to God, and how can we overcome them?

Further Reading

1. Romans 12:1–2 – Living as a holy sacrifice, transformed by the renewal of the mind.

2. Galatians 5:16–25 – Walking by the Spirit and exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit.

3. Ephesians 5:1–21 – Instructions for Christian living and walking in love.

4. 1 Peter 1:13–16 – A call to be holy as God is holy.

5. Books: The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson.

Prayer Points

1. For a heart open to instruction

• “Lord, help us to humbly receive your Word and instruction, and give us the grace to live in a way that pleases You.”

2. For strength to pursue purity

• “Holy Spirit, empower us to live sanctified lives, set apart for Your glory, even when it feels like we’re swimming against the current.”

3. For the power of the Holy Spirit

• “Father, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. Strengthen us daily to live out the life You’ve called us to.”

4. For growth in love

• “Lord Jesus, teach us to love more and more, beginning with our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

5. For a faithful witness

• “God, in our work, our homes, and our neighborhoods, may our lives be a quiet testimony to Your goodness and grace.”

Sermon: Heart-Soil Check

Scriptures to Read and Ponder

1. Matthew 13:3-9 – The Parable of the Sower (Primary text)

2. 1 Corinthians 11:28 – “Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.”

3. Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

4. Psalm 23:2-3 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters; he refreshes my soul.”

5. Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

6. Psalm 1:2-3 – “Their delight is in the law of the Lord… They are like trees planted by streams of water.”

7. Matthew 13:19-22 – Jesus’ explanation of the parable.

Sermon Recap

Main Idea:

This sermon focuses on the parable of the sower, highlighting how different types of soil represent the varying conditions of human hearts in response to God’s word.

Key Points:

1. Paths: Hardened Hearts

• The seed on the path represents a hardened heart where the word cannot penetrate.

• Application: Silence and solitude are necessary for cultivating spiritual growth amidst the noise of a busy world.

• Supporting scriptures: Psalm 23:2-3, Luke 5:16.

2. Rocks: Superficial Roots

• Rocky soil represents a shallow, emotional faith that lacks depth.

• When adversity comes, such faith quickly withers because it is not deeply rooted.

• Application: Meditating on God’s word and developing deep roots in the truth helps build an unshakable faith.

• Supporting scriptures: Matthew 13:20-21, Psalm 1:2-3.

3. Thorns: Choking Concerns

• Thorny soil symbolizes a heart crowded by the worries of life and the deceitfulness of wealth, choking spiritual growth.

• Application: We need to identify and remove distractions that choke God’s word from bearing fruit.

• Supporting scriptures: Matthew 13:22.

4. Fruitful Fields: Open Hearts

• Good soil represents a receptive heart that yields fruit in abundance.

• Application: A fruitful life comes from a cultivated heart where God’s word is sown and nurtured.

• Supporting scriptures: Matthew 13:8, Psalm 1:3.

Memorable Quotes

• “The degree of fruitfulness does not depend on the sower or the seed, but on the soil.”

• “God’s word is the touchstone against which the authenticity of our hearts is tested.”

• “We live in a noisy world, but we can cultivate moments of silence and prayer.”

• “Roots that go deep produce faith that remains unshakable during adversity.”

Questions for Discussion

1. Which type of soil best represents the current state of your heart?

2. How can you create moments of silence and stillness in your busy life to allow God’s word to take root?

3. What are some “thorns” in your life that could be choking your spiritual growth?

4. How can you develop deeper roots in your faith to remain steadfast during difficult times?

5. What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate a more fruitful heart?

Further Reading

1. Isaiah 55:10-11 – God’s word will not return empty but will accomplish what He desires.

2. James 1:21-25 – Be doers of the word and not hearers only.

3. Hebrews 4:12 – The word of God is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

4. Colossians 2:6-7 – Be rooted and built up in Christ, strengthened in faith.

Prayer Points

1. For Receptive Hearts:

“Lord, help us to have hearts that are good soil, ready to receive Your word and bear lasting fruit.”

2. Against Distractions:

“Father, reveal the thorns in our lives that choke Your word, and give us grace to remove them.”

3. For Spiritual Depth:

“Jesus, deepen our roots in You so that we may stand firm in times of trouble and adversity.”

4. For Fruitfulness:

“Holy Spirit, cultivate in us a heart that yields a harvest of righteousness and love.”

5. For Rest and Stillness:

“God, teach us to withdraw to lonely places like Jesus did, to find silence, rest, and renewal in Your presence.”