Yesterday at NorthStar Mike Linch brought part 3 of the United series with "United by God's Plan" on John 17:17-23. We continued our study of Jesus' "high-priestly prayer" in John 17 as we saw how we are all united in our participation in God's plan.
Miss Sunday's service? Click here to download audio of Mike's message or to view or print sermon notes.
I. WHAT IS GOD’S BIG PLAN FOR US?
God’s plan for His people is that they GROW IN UNITY and REACH THE WORLD FOR JESUS. You need to tell them what He did for you. You need to invite them to church.
"My prayer is … that all of them may be one … SO THAT the world may believe that you have sent me. … May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” -- John 17:20-23 (NIV)
II. HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE IN HIS PLAN?
- Sanctification is when something is used for its INTENDED PURPOSE.
- How are we sanctified? We let God USE US for His purposes.
1. TRUST IN JESUS’ WORK ON THE CROSS.
“For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” -- John 17:19 (NIV)
- Jesus’ sacrifice made it possible for us to be used by God.
2. FOLLOW GOD’S WORD.
“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” -- John 17:17 (NIV)
- Following God’s Word will keep us on track to be used by God. The Word of God does not just make us smart. Its intended purpose is to make us holy.
3. SHARE THE MESSAGE ABOUT JESUS.
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” -- John 17:20b (NIV)
- Bringing people to Jesus is the primary way we are used by God.
Key Point: We become an answer to Jesus’ prayer and become more united when His followers FOLLOW GOD’S PLAN.
Upcoming
Check out these upcoming events at NorthStar...
- The Women's League Fall Kickoff: Meet other women and find a Bible study to jump into this fall. Tomorrow (Tuesday, August 25) at 7 p.m. in the Compass Centre. More info here about this free event.
- The Clothesline: Bring your new or gently used clothing this Sunday to the trailer. The big giveaway takes place Saturday, September 12.
- Crown Financial Small Group Orientation: This Sunday, August 30 immediately following each service on the bricks in the Compass Centre lobby. Drop by and find out more about this incredibly helpful 10-week study starting in September. Crown helps you manage your money according to the principles in God's Word.
- Couples Community Groups: New groups are forming this fall. Join a group or lead a group. Fill out the form in Sunday's Navigator.
- Quiet Time Seminar: This Sunday, August 30, 11 a.m.-12 noon in Center Court (Compass Building). Find out what a quiet time is and how it can take you to the next level in your walk with Christ. Register here.
- Men of NorthStar Fall Retreat: September 26-27 at Winshape Wilderness at Berry College in Rome. Cost is $75 until August 31; $85 thereafter. Register online.
Check out Digging Deeper this week as we continue our study through John 17. Use these daily devotions on the back of your sermon notes. Or find them posted online each day at www.growthstarts.org!
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