Dr. Rob White - February 14, 2016
Believe - Chapter 5
February 14th, 2016
A sermon based on "Believe" by Randy Frazee by Rev. Dr. Rob White for Athens Universal Life Church
From Series: "Believe"
Believe is a unique spiritual growth journey that helps you to think, act, and be more like Jesus. In it, general editor and pastor Randy Frazee walks you through the ten key Beliefs of the Christian faith, the ten key Practices of a Jesus-follower, and the ten key Virtues that characterize someone who is becoming more like Jesus. Each chapter uses short topical passages from the New International Version to help you live the story of the Bible. As you journey through this book, whether in a group or on your own, one simple truth will become undeniably clear: what you believe drives everything. Each chapter includes both Old Testament and New Testament Scripture passages that relate to the specific belief, practice, or virtue in that chapter. Chapters being with a key question, a key idea, and a key verse to guide the reader, along with helpful introductions, summaries, and through-provoking questions. Using this edition of Believe, church families around the globe can now embrace a full ministry year through worship services, small group studies, and family activities. About the BELIEVE experience Know what you believe and why it matters. Grounded in Scripture, BELIEVE is a unique discipleship experience that helps Christians of all ages become more like Jesus in their beliefs, actions, and character. This series illuminates the core beliefs of the Christian faith to help you think, act, and be more like Christ. The BELIEVE experience includes books of carefully selected Scripture for adults, students, and kids; a companion book for discipleship and growth; a storybook and a coloring book for children; and curriculum for every age group. All editions of BELIEVE unpack 30 key ideas of the Bible: 10 key beliefs, 10 key practices, and 10 key virtues of a Christian, so your whole church can learn to be more like Jesus together.
More Messages from Dr. Rob White...
Powered by Series Engine
The sermon begins by highlighting the idea that Jesus calls people to do what comes unnaturally. It contrasts the natural tendencies of accumulating possessions, seeking honors, and prioritizing the best seats with the spiritual teachings of humility and selflessness.
The discussion revolves around Jesus’ advice about humility during a banquet at a Pharisee’s house. He advises not to compete for the best seats at such gatherings, as it may lead to embarrassment if the host asks the guest to move for someone more important. This emphasizes genuine humility that stems from recognizing one’s need for forgiveness and God’s grace.
The sermon also touches on the importance of hosting events for those less fortunate, rather than inviting friends and wealthy individuals who could reciprocate. This aligns with Jesus’ teachings about giving without expecting anything in return and living by the principles of the kingdom of God.
The sermon concludes with an anecdote about an act of kindness from a stranger in Austria, illustrating the idea that acts of selflessness and generosity reflect a commitment to Jesus as Lord and the goodness of God.
Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to embrace humility, prioritize selflessness, and live according to the principles of the kingdom of God, demonstrating genuine faith and gratitude for God’s forgiveness.