Sermon Outline / Reflection
I. WHO IS ON THE CROSS?
(a) praise to persecution
(b) disciples - once faithful now fearful
II. THE INTRUSION OF THE CROSS
(a) interrupted by God to bring you to Jesus
(b) new direction turning your life upside down
III. THE AGONY OF THE CROSS
(a) public embarrassment
(b) unjustly misunderstood
(c) keeping faithful to love & forgive
IV. THE JOY OF THE CROSS
(a) drawn into the deep love of Jesus
(b) taste of death to appreciate the gift of life
(c) transformation: stranger – spectator – servant
V. ENDURE THE LAST MILE
(a) refuse to walk away/embrace the cross-life
(b) know you are placed in a favored position to serve Jesus as Lord
PRAYER OF SALVATION
Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge I’ve lived my own life in ungodly ways not really knowing who you are. I now desire to turn from such ways to follow your good and best ways for my life. I believe You sent Your Son Jesus Christ to shed His precious blood on the cross for the forgiveness of my sins so I may receive the gift of eternal life. I desire now for Jesus, the Son of God, to be my Lord and Savior moving forward. Thank you God, my Heavenly Father, for your grace and the gift of Your Son Jesus Christ. Jesus please enter into life through the Holy Spirit and may I move forward with your help, to bring glory and honor to you.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
GROWING DEEPER IN REFLECTION
1. How did God specifically speak into your heart with today’s message?
2. What fears could be driving you away from fully committing to Jesus?
3. a) Do you feel forced or reluctant to come to church or to serve in ministry?
b) Would you assess yourself as a stranger, spectator, or, servant of Jesus?
4. How might God be trying to draw you closer to Jesus and for what purposes
(e.g., to receive Jesus as Lord & Savior, to serve Jesus for His Kingdom purposes)?
5. Did you say the Prayer of Salvation? We’d love to know so we may rejoice with you and encourage your walk with Jesus! Please email Pastor Trevor or complete the “Keep in Touch” section in our bulletin and place in our prayer box or with our office.
Reflecting upon the Savior's love,
Pastor Trevor