Soldiers of Chirst: Embracing Unity and Mission

Outline:

Foundational Elements:

Sermon Title: "Soldiers of Christ: Embracing Unity and Mission"Text of Sermon: Galatians 3:28, Hebrews 12:2, Romans 12:5Subject: Christian Unity and MissionCentral Idea of the Text (CIT): Paul and the author of Hebrews emphasized the unity and mission of believers in Christ.Proposition: In Christ, we are united and called to a common mission under His leadership.Objective: Hearers will commit to embracing unity and actively participating in the mission of Christ.Main Point of the Sermon (MPS): As soldiers of Christ, we are equal, guided by our Commander, and united in suffering and mission.

Introduction:

Church Attention: Move Move Move, Let’s Go Private. .

How would it be to open Church like that every Sunday?

See today we are going to talk a little about something that I am familiar with and something That I am still learning to teach and practice.

I bet none of you have ever drawn a comparison between military life and that of the life of the church.

At basic training we were all on one level and that was the bottom. Some people like myself was able to enter service with a little rank because of college or ROTC but that little rank only ment a little more pay.

Once you get off the bus you all learn the first aspect of service and that is discipline

I was lucky to start the first day of basic training on my birthday.There is nothing like getting sung to by 250 recruits and 40 of the nicest Drill Sergeants. I had to do push-ups until they got done singing happy birthday 20 times. Thank God I wasn’t a late bloomer.

See the form of disciple you receive is to break you down and to build you up.

Next up was unity. one drill sergeant said it ment that we would by a unit and from the equation they were going to remove the YOU.

One of the greatest experiences and life lessons for me at this time was learning that we humans really don’t come in many different colors and expectantly in the military you are all GREEN. We were all coming from different walks of life and different times in our lives but we learned to work together in a unifying suffering.

Shared Mission

See in training there is one mission- get out of basic alive, without getting kicked out, and move on to your job training. This shared mission becomes the driving force and common point of communication that we share nightly when the drill Sargent’s go home and we get that 5 hours of rest.

Equality in Christ

Galatians 3:28 “There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

I. Equality in Christ (Galatians 3:28)

Explanation: Discuss how in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female.

Argumentation:

A compelling metaphor for Christians as soldiers of Christ could be "Warriors of the Light." This metaphor captures the essence of the spiritual battle Christians face, emphasizing the virtues of bravery, unity, and mission in the service of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Light of the World.

Explanation of the Metaphor:

Warriors: This term denotes strength, courage, and readiness to engage in battle, reflecting the Christian's commitment to stand firm in faith.Of the Light: Light symbolizes truth, goodness, and the presence of God, highlighting the divine purpose and righteous cause Christians fight for.

Breakdown of the Metaphor:

Courage and Strength: Just as warriors must be brave and strong, Christians are called to have spiritual fortitude, relying on God's strength to face life's challenges.Unity in Battle: Warriors fight together, supporting one another. Similarly, Christians are called to stand united, supporting and encouraging each other in their spiritual journey.Mission and Purpose: Warriors have a clear mission. For Christians, this mission is to spread the gospel and live out the teachings of Christ, bringing light to the world.Armor of God: Drawing from Ephesians 6:10-18, Christians are metaphorically equipped with the armor of God, symbolizing spiritual readiness and protection in the face of evil.

Illustrative Example:

Story: Share a story of a historical or fictional group of warriors who fought valiantly for a noble cause, emphasizing their unity, courage, and unwavering commitment to their mission. Then, draw parallels to how Christians, as "Warriors of the Light," are called to embody these same qualities in their spiritual walk.

This metaphor effectively communicates the spiritual realities of the Christian life, inspiring believers to embrace their roles as devoted, courageous, and mission-driven followers of Christ.

Application: Encourage the congregation to break down barriers and embrace unity within the church.

Illustration: Share a story of a diverse community coming together in Christ.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, a remarkable spiritual awakening known as the "Jesus Movement" brought together two seemingly disparate groups: the countercultural hippies and the traditional Christian church. This movement began in Southern California, where disillusioned young people, searching for meaning in a time of social upheaval, encountered the message of Jesus Christ. Many of these hippies, who were originally part of the flower power generation, found themselves drawn to a simple and authentic faith that emphasized love, peace, and a personal relationship with God. The Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California, became a central hub for this movement, led by Pastor Chuck Smith. Smith opened the doors of his church to these unconventional seekers, welcoming them with open arms despite their long hair, casual attire, and unconventional lifestyles. The church services were transformed, with traditional hymns being replaced by contemporary Christian music, often led by newly converted musicians who were part of the hippie scene. This blend of cultures created a unique and powerful worship experience that resonated deeply with both the church members and the new converts. As a result, a vibrant community emerged, characterized by a profound sense of unity and shared purpose. The church saw rapid growth, with thousands of young people coming to faith and being baptized in the Pacific Ocean. The Jesus Movement spread across the country, influencing countless churches and leading to the establishment of new Christian communities. This period of unity between the hippies and the church not only revitalized traditional congregations but also demonstrated the power of inclusivity and the transformative impact of God's love. The legacy of this movement continues to inspire contemporary worship practices and outreach efforts, emphasizing that God's grace transcends cultural boundaries and unites diverse groups in heartfelt worship.

Transition: Having seen our unity and direction, let's now consider our shared suffering and mission.

II. Directed by a Commander (Hebrews 12:2)

Hebrews 12:2 “keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.”

Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Explanation: Describe Jesus as the author and perfecter of our faith, guiding us in our mission.

Author of Our Faith: Initiator: Jesus is the originator of our faith. He laid the foundation through His teachings, miracles, and, most significantly, His sacrificial death and resurrection. Without His work, the Christian faith would not exist.

Example: Jesus’ life on earth serves as the ultimate example of faith in action. He demonstrated perfect obedience to God, unwavering trust in the Father’s plan, and love for humanity, even to the point of death on the cross.

Revelation: Jesus reveals the nature and character of God. Through Him, we understand God’s love, grace, and righteousness. His life and words are the blueprint for how we should live and believe.Perfecter of Our Faith: Completer: Jesus brings our faith to completion. He not only begins the work in us but also sees it through to its ultimate fulfillment. This includes sanctifying us and preparing us for eternal life with God .

Sustainer: Jesus sustains and strengthens our faith. Through the Holy Spirit, He empowers us to grow in faith, overcome obstacles, and endure hardships. He is actively involved in our spiritual development.

Finisher: Jesus will bring the work He started in us to perfection. This assurance gives us hope and confidence that despite our flaws and struggles, we will reach the fullness of our faith through Him.Guiding Us in Our Mission: Leader: As our Commander, Jesus directs our steps. He gives us a clear mission: to spread the gospel, love others, and live according to God’s will. We follow His lead, knowing He has gone before us and knows the way.

Teacher: Jesus provides guidance through His teachings. The principles and commands He imparted to His disciples continue to instruct and guide us today. His words are a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

Empower-er: Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus equips us with the gifts and strength needed to carry out our mission. He does not leave us to accomplish it on our own but empowers us with divine resources.

Intercessor: Jesus prays for us and intercedes on our behalf. This ongoing advocacy ensures that we receive the grace and help we need to stay on course and fulfill our calling.Practical Applications: Daily Focus: Keep your eyes on Jesus daily through prayer, Bible study, and worship. Let His life and teachings continually inspire and guide you.

Trust and Obedience: Trust in His plans for your life and obey His commands, knowing that He is leading you towards His purposes.

Strength in Hardship: Rely on Jesus’ strength during difficult times. Remember that He is perfecting your faith through every trial and challenge.

Active Participation: Engage actively in the mission He has given you, sharing the gospel, serving others, and living out His teachings with dedication and love.By seeing Jesus as the author and perfecter of our faith, we are reminded of His comprehensive role in our spiritual journey—from beginning to end—and His active involvement in guiding us towards fulfilling our God-given mission.

Argumentation: Argue that just as soldiers follow their commander, we must look to Jesus for direction.

Just as soldiers follow their commander, we must look to Jesus for direction. This analogy emphasizes the importance of obedience, trust, and unity under a single leader in both military and spiritual contexts. Here’s how this parallel can be drawn:

Authority and Leadership

Commander's Role: In the military, the commander holds authority over the soldiers. The commander is responsible for devising strategies, making decisions, and leading troops into battle. Soldiers are trained to follow their commander’s orders without hesitation because their success and survival often depend on it.

Jesus' Role: Similarly, Jesus is our spiritual Commander. He has ultimate authority over our lives, as stated in Matthew 28:18, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Jesus provides the direction, guidance, and leadership we need to navigate life’s challenges and fulfill our mission.

Trust and Obedience

Military Trust: Soldiers trust their commanders because they believe in their training, experience, and ability to lead them effectively. This trust is built on the understanding that the commander’s decisions are made with the best interest of the soldiers and the mission in mind.

Spiritual Trust: As believers, we are called to trust Jesus fully. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Just as soldiers rely on their commander’s wisdom, we rely on Jesus’ divine wisdom and perfect plan for our lives.

Unity and Coordination

Military Unity: A cohesive military unit functions efficiently because all soldiers follow the same leader and work towards a common goal. Disobedience or deviation from the commander’s orders can lead to confusion, inefficiency, and even failure of the mission.

Spiritual Unity: In the same way, Christians are called to be unified in their faith and mission. 1 Corinthians 1:10 urges believers to “be perfectly united in mind and thought.” By looking to Jesus for direction, we maintain unity and coordination in our efforts to advance His kingdom. Ephesians 4:3-6 further emphasizes this unity by encouraging believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Mission and Purpose

Military Mission: Soldiers follow their commander to accomplish specific missions. These missions give them purpose and direction, and success depends on each soldier’s commitment to the commander’s plan.

Spiritual Mission: Jesus has given us a clear mission: to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Our purpose as Christians is to spread the gospel, love others, and live out our faith. By following Jesus, we align ourselves with His mission and work towards the common goal of expanding God’s kingdom on earth.

Support and Protection

Military Support: Commanders are responsible for the well-being of their soldiers, providing support, resources, and protection. This ensures that soldiers are equipped to face the challenges of their mission.

Spiritual Support: Jesus promises to support and protect us. He equips us with spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) and provides the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us. Psalm 23:1-4 beautifully illustrates the Lord as our shepherd, leading, guiding, and protecting us through life’s trials.

Obedience in Action

Military Obedience: Soldiers demonstrate their obedience through their actions, following orders precisely and faithfully. Their commitment to their commander is evidenced by their willingness to act according to the commander’s instructions.

Spiritual Obedience: Our obedience to Jesus should also be evident in our actions. James 1:22-25 encourages us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only.” By living out Jesus’ teachings and commands, we show our commitment to following Him.

Application: Provide examples of how we can keep our eyes on Jesus in daily life.

1. Daily Prayer: Morning and Evening Prayers: Start and end your day with prayer, thanking God for His blessings, seeking His guidance, and asking for strength to live according to His will.

Prayer Throughout the Day: Cultivate a habit of talking to God throughout the day, sharing your thoughts, worries, and joys with Him.

2. Bible Study: Daily Scripture Reading: Set aside time each day to read and meditate on the Bible. Use devotionals or reading plans to help guide your study.

Scripture Memorization: Memorize key verses that speak to you, so you can recall and meditate on them throughout the day.

3. Worship: Corporate Worship: Regularly attend church services to join others in worship, learn from sermons, and participate in communal prayer and singing

.Personal Worship: Spend time in personal worship, singing praises, and expressing your love and gratitude to God.

4. Christian Community: Fellowship Groups: Join a small group or Bible study group to build relationships with other believers, share your faith journey, and encourage each other.

Accountability Partners: Find an accountability partner who can support you in your walk with Christ, offering encouragement, prayer, and guidance.

5. Service:Volunteering: Use your talents and time to serve others, both within your church and in your community, demonstrating Christ’s love through your actions.

Acts of Kindness: Look for opportunities to help and encourage those around you, showing compassion and kindness in everyday interactions.

6. Mindfulness and Gratitude: Mindful Living: Be mindful of God’s presence in every aspect of your life. Recognize His hand in the beauty of creation, the people you meet, and the circumstances you face.

Gratitude Journals: Keep a journal to regularly write down things you are grateful for, focusing on God’s blessings and faithfulness.

7. Obedience to God’s Commands: Living Out Scripture: Apply biblical principles to your daily decisions and actions, striving to live a life that honors God in all you do.

Seeking God’s Will: In making decisions, seek God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture, prioritizing His will over your own desires.

8. Spiritual Disciplines: Fasting: Engage in regular fasting to draw closer to God, seeking spiritual clarity and growth.

Silence and Solitude: Spend time in silence and solitude to listen to God’s voice, away from the distractions of daily life.By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can keep your eyes on Jesus, deepening your relationship with Him and living out your faith more fully.

Illustration: Use a story or example of someone who followed Jesus' guidance in a difficult situation.

Example: Rick Warren and the Purpose Driven Life

Rick Warren, the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in California, offers a modern example of following Jesus’ guidance through his influential work and personal life. Known for his best-selling book, "The Purpose Driven Life," Warren has inspired millions of people worldwide to discover their God-given purpose and live a life centered on Christ. His book emphasizes the importance of focusing on God's plan, living with intention, and serving others, drawing from biblical teachings.

One profound instance of Warren keeping his eyes on Jesus occurred in the wake of his son Matthew’s tragic death in 2013. Matthew struggled with mental illness for many years, and his passing brought immense grief to Warren and his family. Despite this personal tragedy, Warren chose to lean on his faith and openly share his family's journey through grief. He and his wife, Kay, started advocating for mental health awareness, using their platform to support others facing similar struggles. Their response to their loss demonstrated how deeply their faith in Jesus guided their actions, turning their pain into a ministry that brings hope and healing to countless individuals. Through their example, the Warrens show how keeping one's eyes on Jesus can provide strength, purpose, and a path to help others, even in the darkest times.

Transition: Moving from our unity in Christ, let's focus on our direction under His leadership.

III. Suffering Together (Romans 12:5)

Romans 12:5 “in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ and individually members of one another.”

Explanation: Explain how we are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.

The concept of being "one body in Christ, and individually members of one another" comes from the New Testament, specifically Romans 12:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.

1 Corinthians 12:12–17 “For as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body—so also is Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. So the body is not one part but many. If the foot should say, “Because I’m not a hand, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I’m not an eye, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?”

This idea emphasizes the unity and interdependence of believers within the Christian community, using the metaphor of a physical body to illustrate how Christians are connected to each other through their shared faith in Jesus Christ.

Explanation:

1. Unity in Diversity:

The body of Christ is made up of diverse members, each with unique gifts, talents, and roles. Just as a physical body has different parts (hands, feet, eyes, ears) that perform various functions, so does the Christian community. Every believer has a distinct role and purpose, contributing to the overall health and function of the body. This diversity is essential for the body to operate effectively, as each part brings something valuable and necessary to the whole.

2. Interdependence:

In a physical body, each part relies on the others to function properly. The hand cannot operate without the arm, and the eyes need the brain to process what they see. Similarly, in the body of Christ, believers depend on one another. This interdependence means that no one can thrive in isolation; we need each other's support, encouragement, and contributions to grow spiritually and accomplish God's purposes.

3. Mutual Care and Support:

Being members of one another implies a deep sense of mutual care and responsibility. When one part of the body suffers, the whole body feels the pain. In the same way, when a member of the Christian community faces difficulties, others are called to offer support and compassion. Conversely, when one part rejoices, the whole body shares in the joy. This mutual empathy strengthens the bonds between believers and fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity.

4. Common Purpose:

The ultimate purpose of the body of Christ is to glorify God and advance His kingdom. Each member plays a role in this mission, working together to spread the gospel, serve others, and live out Christ's teachings. This shared mission unites believers, giving them a common goal that transcends individual differences and personal agendas.

Practical Applications:

1. Using Spiritual Gifts:

Recognize and use your spiritual gifts to serve the community. Whether your gift is teaching, hospitality, administration, or encouragement, offer it to benefit others and contribute to the church's mission.

2. Supporting Each Other:

Be attentive to the needs of fellow believers. Offer help, prayer, and encouragement to those who are struggling. Celebrate their successes and joys as if they were your own.

3. Building Relationships:

Invest time in building genuine relationships within your church community. Join small groups, attend fellowship events, and be intentional about getting to know others. Strong relationships foster a sense of unity and mutual support.

4. Promoting Unity:

Avoid actions and attitudes that cause division. Seek to build up and encourage rather than criticize or tear down. Embrace diversity within the body of Christ, understanding that different perspectives and experiences enrich the community.

Argumentation: Discuss the significance of shared suffering and support within the Christian community.

Significance of Shared Suffering and Support Within the Christian Community

One significant aspect of shared suffering and support within the Christian community is the deep sense of solidarity and empathy it fosters among believers. When Christians face trials together, they strengthen their bonds and grow closer as a spiritual family. This shared experience allows members to empathize with one another, providing emotional and spiritual support that is crucial during difficult times. As Galatians 6:2 states, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This mutual support helps individuals feel less isolated in their suffering, knowing they are part of a compassionate and understanding community.

Another important aspect is the growth in faith and resilience that comes from facing challenges together. When Christians support each other through suffering, they collectively witness God’s faithfulness and provision. This communal experience of God’s presence during hardship strengthens the faith of the entire community. It encourages believers to trust in God’s promises and rely on His strength. Furthermore, shared suffering often leads to increased unity and a greater sense of purpose within the community, as members are reminded of their dependence on one another and on God. This unity is a powerful testimony to the wider world of the transformative power of Christ’s love and the strength found in Christian fellowship.

Application: Challenge the congregation to support one another in times of trial and suffering.

Illustration: Share a testimony or story of a church or group of believers who endured hardship together.

Testimony: The Church in Charleston, South Carolina

In June 2015, the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Charleston, South Carolina, experienced a devastating tragedy when a gunman entered their Bible study and opened fire, killing nine members of the congregation. This act of violence could have easily torn the community apart, but instead, it became a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and unity.

In the wake of the shooting, the church community and the city of Charleston came together to support one another through their grief and pain. Church members held vigils and prayer meetings, leaning on their faith and each other for strength. The church leaders, despite their immense personal loss, preached messages of forgiveness and love, reflecting the teachings of Jesus Christ. They forgave the shooter, a radical act that stunned the nation and exemplified Christ-like forgiveness and grace.

The broader Charleston community, including other local churches, provided overwhelming support to Emanuel AME Church. They offered prayers, financial assistance, and physical presence at memorial services. This outpouring of love and solidarity helped the church members feel surrounded by a supportive and empathetic community. Through shared suffering, the church and the community grew stronger in their faith and commitment to one another. This tragic event, while deeply painful, became a powerful testimony of how shared hardship can unite believers and demonstrate the profound impact of Christian love and forgiveness.

Conclusion

Today, we have delved into three crucial aspects of our faith: our equality in Christ, our direction under Jesus, and our shared suffering and mission. We learned from Galatians 3:28 that in Christ, there are no distinctions among us, and we are all one body. We explored how Jesus, as our Commander, guides us in our mission, providing us with direction and purpose. Finally, we reflected on the significance of shared suffering and support within our community, emphasizing that we are called to bear one another’s burdens and grow stronger together.

Our objective is clear: to embrace this unity and actively participate in the mission of Christ. As we stand united, let us break down barriers, support each other through trials, and commit to living out our faith with courage and purpose, just as soldiers of Christ would do.

Let us close with a prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the profound truths we have learned today. We are grateful for the unity we have in Christ, for the direction You provide us, and for the strength we gain through shared suffering and support. Help us to embrace our unity and to actively participate in Your mission. Grant us the courage, strength, and wisdom to serve as faithful soldiers of Christ. Unite us in love, and empower us to spread Your light in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.