Show Us Your Glory

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message reminds us that when we gather as a church, something special happens. When we assemble with one heart and one Spirit, we are not just coming together for our own agendas or desires, but rather to behold the glory of God. We come seeking communion with His body and blood, and a deeper understanding of His word.

Key Scripture References

• Psalm 24:7-10 - "Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! That the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty; the Lord mighty in battle." This passage reminds us that when we gather as a church, we are opening ourselves to the presence of our Sovereign Lord.
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 - "For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For in fact the body does not consist of one member but of many." This passage highlights the importance of unity and oneness among believers, which is essential for experiencing God's glory.
• Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing but rather encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage emphasizes the importance of regular assembly and encouragement among believers.
• Matthew 18:20 - "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” This passage reminds us that when we gather together, God is present with us.
• Ephesians 4:1-6 - "I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." This passage highlights the importance of living in harmony and unity as believers.
• John 17:20-23 - "My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. All that are mine are yours and all that are yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. And I will remain in the world no longer, but these disciples are to remain with you until the end of time." This passage reminds us that our unity as believers is a reflection of God's glory.

Key Takeaways

• We must come together as a church with one heart and one Spirit, seeking to behold the glory of God. This requires humility, gentleness, patience, and love towards one another.
• When we gather, we are not just coming for our own agendas or desires, but rather to experience the presence of our Sovereign Lord.
• We must be willing to put aside our individual interests and seek unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
• The church is not just a gathering of individuals, but a living body where we are all connected and interdependent.

This Week's Challenge

Take time this week to reflect on your own heart and motivations for attending church. Ask yourself: Am I coming seeking my own desires or the glory of God? Make an effort to put aside your individual agendas and seek unity with your brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for opportunities to encourage and spur one another towards love and good deeds.

Reflection Questions

• What are some areas where I need to surrender my own desires and seek the glory of God in our church gatherings?
• How can I practically show love and encouragement to my brothers and sisters in Christ this week?
• What does it mean for me to "behold the glory of God" in our church gatherings, and how can I cultivate a deeper sense of awe and wonder at His presence?