Week 12 - Live Openhearted

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

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DECLARATION:

Ephesians 2:20–22 (ESV)

20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

SVCC is built by God, upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, and with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone.

We are joined together by union with Christ, we are growing, and we are a dwelling place of God by his Spirit.

Prayer for...

INTRODUCTION:

Review:

WHY?…

TODAY: Live Openhearted - an invitation to embody the transformative power of reconciliation in our lives.

Opening Scripture: 2 Cor. 6:1-13

2 Corinthians 6:11 ESV

11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open.

***Read 2 Cor. 6:1-11**

Summary of 2 Cor. 6:1-10 Paul Speaks on Giving No Offense but instead living in restored relationship and commending (i.e. recommending or demonstrating) others, and ourselves.

Live Openhearted:

v. 11 - The importance of plain speaking with an open heart

2 Corinthians 6:11 “11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open.”

v. 12 - Genuine affection between people is to be highly valued (vv. 12–13)

2 Corinthians 6:12–13 “12 You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. 13 In return (I speak as to children) widen your hearts also.”

How do we widen our hearts?

Make the first move.

Paul is moving towards them.

God moves towards us.

We must move towards others.

Approach others with integrity.

Integrity is opposed to coercing others.

Make room for others.

Accept others as they are.

This does not mean approving of what they do.

Make the sacrificial way of life normal.

Sacrifice Convince

Sacrifice Comfort

Sacrifice Connections

Sacrifice Capacity

Sacrifice FOR calling

Title: "Lincoln's Unifying Vision: A Nation Reconciled" In the midst of the Civil War, a period marked by division and strife in the United States, President Abraham Lincoln's unwavering commitment to reconciliation and unity stood as a testament to the principles outlined in 2 Corinthians 6:11-13.

President Lincoln recognized the urgent need to make the first move toward reconciliation. In the midst of the bloodiest conflict in American history, he extended an olive branch to the Southern states, offering amnesty and pardon through his famous Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction in 1863…he made the first move.

Lincoln's sacrificial commitment was evident in his dedication to preserving the Union, even if it meant personal and political sacrifice. He faced immense challenges and criticism for his approach, but he believed that the sacrificial way of life was necessary for the greater good of the nation.

In the aftermath of the Civil War, Lincoln's vision for reconciliation and unity became a foundational aspect of the nation's healing process. Though tragically cut short by his assassination, Lincoln's legacy reminds us all to embrace 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 and its principles for Living Openhearted - in order to see the transformative power of reconciliation in our lives and the places where God places us.

Conclusion/Reflection:

Living openhearted is not a solitary endeavor; it's a collective symphony where each note, each intentional act of kindness, and each gesture of understanding contributes to the harmonious melody of reconciliation. It is through our commitment to these principles that we echo the divine invitation to bridge divides and live at peace with God and others.

Let us not underestimate the impact of our choices, both great and small, in the larger journey of reconciliation. Our efforts, guided by love and a desire for unity, contribute to a legacy that extends far beyond our immediate circles. As we step into the challenge of widening hearts, let us remember that, in doing so, we become ambassadors of God who steward the power to heal, restore, and unite.

Talk It Over:

In what ways have you personally experienced or witnessed the widening of hearts in your community or relationships? Share specific examples and consider how these instances have impacted your perspective on reconciliation.

Consider the practical steps mentioned in the sermon: making the first move, approaching others with integrity, making room for others, accepting others as they are, and making the sacrificial way of life normal. Which of these steps resonates with you the most, and how can you apply it in your daily life to contribute to the widening of hearts?

Discuss potential barriers or challenges that individuals or communities might face in the process of widening hearts and fostering reconciliation. How can these barriers be overcome, and what role can individuals play in addressing these challenges within their spheres of influence?