Brief Summary
This sermon explores how to make godly decisions, drawing from the example of the apostles in Acts 1 choosing a replacement for Judas. It highlights the importance of scripture, prayer, seeking counsel from fellow believers, and trusting that God can work through imperfect decisions. The message encourages listeners to consider whether their choices will uplift Christ and further their faith, emphasizing that God looks at the heart and guides those who seek Him.
- Importance of scripture and prayer in decision-making.
- Seeking counsel from fellow believers.
- Trusting that God can work through imperfect decisions.
Introduction
Pastor Larry Rodencil introduces himself and welcomes the congregation, including those watching online. He encourages everyone to connect with the church and share any prayer requests through the church center. The sermon will focus on how to make godly decisions, referencing the example in Acts chapter 1.
Confession and Peace
The congregation participates in a confession of sins, acknowledging their need for God's guidance. Following the confession, they share the peace of God with one another.
Acts 1:12-26
The first reading is from Acts 1:12-26, which describes the apostles returning to Jerusalem after Jesus' ascension. Peter addresses the believers, who number about 120, stating that Judas's betrayal was foretold in scripture and that a replacement must be chosen to continue his ministry and witness the resurrection. They nominate Joseph Barsabbas (also known as Justice) and Matthias. After praying for God's guidance, they cast lots, and Matthias is chosen to join the eleven apostles.
John 17:1-11
The Gospel reading is from John 17:1-11, where Jesus prays to the Father, asking to be glorified and to protect those whom the Father has given Him. Jesus emphasizes that He has revealed the Father to His followers and that they have obeyed His word. He prays not for the world, but for those who belong to Him, asking that they may be one as He and the Father are one.
Apostles Creed
The congregation recites the Apostles' Creed, affirming their belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as well as the core tenets of Christian faith, including the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.
Presidential Debate Decisions
The sermon uses the example of how decisions are made in presidential debates to illustrate the concept of decision-making. Details such as who arrives first, who gets the first question, and podium placement are all determined by a coin flip to ensure fairness. The coin used is specially designed for the debate, larger and thicker than a regular quarter, with the debate logo and location on either side.
Everyday Decisions
The pastor discusses the multitude of decisions people make daily, ranging from mundane choices like what to wear or eat to more significant life decisions such as buying a new car or marriage. He notes that without guidance, these decisions can be paralyzing, especially when the Bible doesn't offer specific answers.
Replacing Judas: A Church-Impacting Decision
The sermon returns to the example of the early church needing to replace Judas. Two candidates, Joseph Barsabbas (Justice) and Matthias, were considered. Historical accounts provide limited information about them, but one had to be chosen. The method of casting lots, similar to drawing stones with names, was used to seek God's direction. Matthias was selected, highlighting the desire for divine guidance in important decisions.
Seeking God's Direction
The pastor explains that while some decisions might seem as simple as a coin flip, the process of choosing Matthias was taken seriously, with the apostles genuinely seeking God's direction. This is compared to the Old Testament practice of the high priest using the Urim and Thummim to make decisions. He emphasizes that the congregation is also in a call process, seeking God's chosen leader.
Steps for Godly Decision-Making
The pastor outlines several steps for making godly decisions, mirroring what the early disciples did. First, they started with scripture, understanding that Judas's fate was foretold. Second, they gathered together, seeking the Lord's will as a community. Third, they prayed, acknowledging that God knows everyone's heart. Finally, they stepped out in faith, trusting that God would guide them even if their decisions were imperfect.
Qualities of Godly Decisions
The sermon poses questions to help guide decision-making: Will this choice lift up the risen Christ in me? Will it help me in my Christian life and faith? Will it send me forth into the harvest field to seek the lost? These questions emphasize the importance of considering the impact of decisions on one's relationship with Christ and their service to others.
Practical Considerations and Trusting God
The pastor acknowledges that while praying over every decision, like choosing clothes, might seem excessive, it's important to consider how choices reflect one's Christian faith. He shares personal experiences of parenting and the challenges of making decisions without an instruction manual, emphasizing the need to witness to one's faith and discipline in love. He reiterates the importance of prayer, Christian fellowship, and trusting that God will not let decisions turn out badly for those who trust in Him.
Faith and Trust in God's Plan
Drawing from Romans 8:28, the pastor reminds the congregation that all things work together for good for those who love God. He uses the example of Abraham, who obeyed God's call to go to the promised land without knowing where he was going, as an example of faith. He offers a prayer for those venturing into the unknown, trusting in God's guidance and love.
Announcements
Pastor John Benham shares announcements, thanking the congregation for their contributions and highlighting various ministry opportunities, including the CARE fund, Fellowship Sunday, pavilion potlucks, VBS, and volunteer opportunities with the Faith Alliance and Hope Seeds. He also acknowledges recent graduates and invites them to stand for recognition.
Senior Pastor Call Team Announcement
Matt, co-chair of the senior pastor call team, announces that they will bring forward a candidate for a call. He explains that the call committee, along with Pastor John and the staff, have unanimously supported and endorsed the candidate. A voters meeting is scheduled in two weeks to officially extend the call. Details about the candidate will be shared via email and at the information desk. The candidate will visit Royal Redeemer after the call has been extended, out of respect for his current church.
Prayers of the Church
The congregation engages in a series of prayers, seeking God's guidance for pastors, families, the needy, the sick, and for strength against the adversary. They conclude with the Lord's Prayer, uniting in a common expression of faith and dependence on God.
Benediction and Closing
The pastor offers a benediction, invoking God's blessing, grace, and peace upon the congregation. The service concludes with a closing song.
Closing Story and Final Thoughts
The pastor shares a humorous story about a farmer who receives a sign to "go preach Christ" but later interprets the same sign to "go pick corn" when seminary becomes challenging. The story illustrates the importance of seeking God's guidance while acknowledging the complexities of decision-making. He concludes by reminding the congregation that God walks with them and that all things work for the good of those who trust in Him, even in unwise decisions.
