Transform Your Spiritual Growth Through Intimacy with God
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Purpose of Calvary Church
- Exposition of the Bible Verse by Verse
- The Invitation to Indonesia
- Knowing God Personally
- The Predicament of Paul the Apostle
- The Mind of a Scholar, the Heart of a Child, and the Hide of a Rhinoceros
- The Positive Side of Holiness
- Intimacy with God
- The Element of Personal Control in Spiritual Growth
- God's Comfort and the Comfort of Others
- The Difference Between Regret and Repentance
- Paul's Boasting in the Corinthian Church
📝 Article
Introduction
Calvary Church is a place dedicated to the study and application of the Bible. Here at Calvary Church, we believe in experiencing life change through knowing God's Word and living it out. In this article, we will delve into the teachings and experiences shared by Pastor Skip Heitzig, the senior pastor of Calvary Church, during a recent sermon.
The Purpose of Calvary Church
At Calvary Church, our purpose is clear: to provide sound doctrine and help individuals experience transformation through God's Word. We believe that by studying the Bible verse by verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of its teachings and how they apply to our lives. This commitment to expository preaching sets us apart and allows us to provide a rich spiritual experience for our members.
Exposition of the Bible Verse by Verse
One of the unique aspects of Calvary Church is our commitment to expounding on the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, and book by book. This allows us to dive deep into the text and thoroughly examine its meaning and implications. By going through the Bible systematically, we provide a comprehensive understanding of each verse and its role within the larger context of scripture.
The Invitation to Indonesia
During a recent ministry trip to Vietnam with Franklin Graham, Pastor Skip Heitzig was invited to speak in Indonesia by a group of leaders from the country. The invitation was extended with great enthusiasm and insistence, showcasing the impact of Pastor Skip's teachings on the individuals who heard him. This experience highlights the universal appeal and reach of Calvary Church's teachings.
Knowing God Personally
In his sermon, Pastor Skip reflected on the varying reactions he receives from different individuals who invite or reject him. He discussed how, despite the invitations and rejections, deep down, he knows that not everyone truly knows him. This sentiment resonates with the experience of Paul the Apostle, who faced similar predicaments in his ministry. Some people welcomed him and invited him, while others rejected him and created animosity. Despite these challenges, Paul remained committed to sharing the message of God's love and grace.
The Mind of a Scholar, the Heart of a Child, and the Hide of a Rhinoceros
Pastor Skip quoted Stuart Briscoe, who described the qualities every leader and pastor should possess - the mind of a scholar, the heart of a child, and the hide of a rhinoceros. This analogy highlights the importance of knowledge, humility, and resilience in ministry. Leaders must diligently study the word of God, remain open to the move of the Holy Spirit, and not be swayed by praise or criticism from others.
The Positive Side of Holiness
Holiness is often perceived as a negative concept, associated with a list of "thou shalt nots." However, Pastor Skip emphasized that holiness has a positive aspect - intimacy with God. Holiness allows us to enjoy a deep and meaningful relationship with God, in which He becomes our Father and we become His cherished children. Viewing holiness in this light enables us to see it as a joyous and desirable pursuit.
Intimacy with God
Building on the idea of holiness, Pastor Skip invited the congregation to consider the importance of experiencing intimacy with God. He stressed that it is not enough to know about God; rather, we should strive to know Him personally and develop an intimate relationship with Him. This intimacy brings about a closeness with God, aligning our hearts and desires with His.
The Element of Personal Control in Spiritual Growth
While God plays a significant role in sanctifying and keeping us, Pastor Skip highlighted the importance of personal cooperation and control in our spiritual growth. Yes, God cleanses us and gives us the power to obey His commands, but we must also actively choose obedience and submission to His will. Our spiritual growth and holiness require personal effort and a willingness to cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit.
God's Comfort and the Comfort of Others
Drawing from his own experience, Pastor Skip discussed the role of God's comfort and the comfort we can provide to others. He emphasized that God often comforts people through His people, and we should be willing vessels for His comfort. We should seek to encourage and uplift others, just as Titus was comforted and refreshed by the Corinthian church.
The Difference Between Regret and Repentance
Regret and repentance are distinct concepts with different outcomes. Pastor Skip pointed out that regret often stems from a place of sorrow without true change, while repentance leads to transformation and restoration. He encouraged the congregation to embrace godly sorrow that produces repentance, leading to salvation and a life free from regret.
Paul's Boasting in the Corinthian Church
In his final words, Paul expressed his genuine delight and confidence in the Corinthian church. Despite the challenges they faced and the corrective letters he had to write, Paul boasted of their obedience, diligence, and zeal. He commended them for their response to his teachings and their readiness to address the issues within their midst. Paul's pride in the Corinthian church displays his deep love for them and his belief in their potential for growth and transformation.
Highlights
- Calvary Church is committed to the study and application of the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, and book by book.
- Intimacy with God is the positive side of holiness, providing a joyous and meaningful relationship with God.
- Personal cooperation and control are essential in spiritual growth and holiness.
- God uses people to provide comfort and encouragement to others.
- Repentance leads to transformation, while regret leads to stagnation and sorrow.
- Paul's pride in the Corinthian church demonstrates his faith in their potential for growth and transformation.
FAQs
Q: How does God comfort His people?
A: God often comforts His people through other believers, His Word, or personal experiences that bring solace and encouragement.
Q: What is the difference between regret and repentance?
A: Regret is feeling sorry for past actions without true change, while repentance involves genuine remorse, turning away from sin, and seeking transformation.
Q: How can personal control contribute to spiritual growth?
A: While God sanctifies and keeps believers, personal cooperation and obedience are necessary for spiritual growth and the pursuit of holiness.
Q: What is the positive aspect of holiness?
A: Holiness allows for intimacy with God, enabling a deep and meaningful relationship between believers and their Heavenly Father.
Q: How did Paul view the Corinthian church?
A: Despite the challenges they faced, Paul boasted of the Corinthian church's obedience, diligence, and potential for growth, demonstrating his belief in their transformation.
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