In a world that often demands perfection, it’s easy to feel inadequate when it comes to sharing our faith. Yet, as Pastor Jim emphasized in his sermon at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, God calls us to share the Gospel not because we are perfect, but because He is. Our mission requires faith, not perfection, and it is through our willingness to step out in faith that God accomplishes His work.
The Disciples’ Journey of Faith
The story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 (Luke 9:10-17) provides a powerful illustration of faith in action. The disciples, having just returned from a missionary journey, were faced with a seemingly impossible task: feeding a multitude with only five loaves and two fish. Initially, they questioned their ability to meet the needs of the crowd, reasoning that they lacked the necessary resources.
Yet, Jesus challenged them to take a step of faith. He instructed them to have the crowd sit down and then took the loaves and fish, blessed them, and distributed them through the disciples. The result was a miraculous provision that not only met the needs of the crowd but exceeded them, with twelve baskets of leftovers remaining.
This story reminds us that God doesn’t require us to have all the answers or resources. Instead, He asks us to trust Him and take the first step. As we do, He works through us to accomplish His purposes.
Share: The Heart of Our Mission
At Lakeview Christian Church, sharing the Gospel is at the heart of our mission. The “Share” aspect of our “Just 3” approach emphasizes the importance of knowing and loving others by sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. We are called to be the change as Jesus has changed us, and this begins with sharing our faith.
Sharing the Gospel is not about having all the right words or being a theological expert. It’s about being willing to testify to the work God has done in our lives and inviting others to experience His love and grace. As we share our stories, we become vessels through which God can reach others.
Overcoming Fear in Sharing
Fear often holds us back from sharing our faith. We worry about saying the wrong thing or being rejected. Yet, as the disciples discovered, faith overcomes fear. Jesus reassured them of His presence and empowered them to carry out His mission. In the same way, He promises to be with us as we share the Gospel.
Matthew 28:18-20, known as the Great Commission, reminds us that Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth. He commands us to go and make disciples, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. Importantly, He assures us, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This promise gives us the confidence to step out in faith, knowing that we are not alone.
Conclusion
As we embrace the call to share, let us remember that it is faith, not perfection, that God requires. He uses our willingness to step out in faith to accomplish His purposes and reach others with His love. At Lakeview Christian Church, we invite you to join us in this mission. Engage in evangelism and outreach opportunities, and trust that God will work through you to make a difference.
Together, let us be the change as Jesus has changed us, sharing the Gospel with boldness and faith, and trusting in His presence every step of the way.
