Francis Chan: Grace and the Holy Spirit

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of being obedient to God's appointed times, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3. We are reminded that God does everything at a specific time, and we must be willing to step out in faith when He calls us to do something new. This is evident in the life of Chuck, who has been called to plant a church in Portland, Oregon.

Key Scripture References

• Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 - God appoints times for everything, and we must be willing to trust Him when He calls us to do something new. This passage reminds us that God is sovereign over all things.
• Psalm 138:8 - God's plans are always good, and He delights in prospering His people. This verse encourages us to trust in God's goodness, even when we don't understand what He is doing.
• Matthew 6:10 - We must pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. This verse reminds us that our desires should align with God's plans and purposes.
• 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to each believer, enabling us to serve one another. This passage emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit in all we do.
• Hebrews 13:5-6 - We must be content with what God has given us and trust that He will provide for our needs. This verse reminds us to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us.

Application

This message encourages us to be obedient to God's appointed times, even when it requires stepping out in faith. We are reminded to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and empowerment. As we seek to serve one another, we must be willing to surrender our own desires and plans, trusting that God will work all things together for our good.

Changes at Cornerstone

As a result of this message, some changes will take place at Cornerstone. The college ministry will continue on Sunday nights, with Chuck taking over as the teacher. This service will be geared towards a younger crowd and will feature music that is more contemporary in style. Additionally, the church will have two Sunday night services: one at 5 pm with full children's ministry and another at 7 pm for a younger crowd.

Call to Action

We are encouraged to pray for Chuck and Barbara as they prepare to plant a church in Portland, Oregon. We must also be willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will guide us as we seek to serve one another. As we look to the future, let us remember that God's plans are always good, and He delights in prospering His people.