Sermon Info
Summary
Jesus grew “in favor with man.” As we grow closer to God, we will naturally grow in our love for others. The key to spiritual growth is love. Jesus said the most important commandment is to love God and to love others. As we live like Jesus, people are changed and so are we. We cannot simply talk about being a Christian, we must live it out in our everyday lives. How do you plan to grow in “favor with man” in 2020? Be proactive. Don’t sit back, but truly engage in your family, church, neighborhood, and workplace for the glory of God. Let’s focus on Jesus this year.
Content
“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52
1. Know who you are.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness and into His wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9
- Be confident in Christ.
- Don’t conform to the world.
- People want to be around people who know what they believe.
2. Your deeds should point others to Jesus.
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us. 1 Peter 2:12
- How can you serve others?
- Always check your motives when serving.
- Be involved in your community.
3. Your walk should equal your talk.
For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 1 Peter 2:15
- If we talk about being a Christian, then we must live it.
- Most non-believers say they don’t want to come to church because of hypocrisy.
- None of us are perfect, but we should strive to live out our faith.
4. Focus on Jesus.
Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17
- The key to growing in “favor with man” is love.
- Be proactive. Jesus went out to people.
- Love. Everyone. Always.
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps. 1 Peter 2:21
Communion
If you are a follower of Christ, then you are invited to come to His table this morning as we receive Communion. This is “Christ’s Body broken for you.” As we come today, let’s focus on Jesus and dedicate this New Year (and new decade) to Him.
