Granby church of Christ
Sermon Outline

A Look Ahead

 

Introduction:

2012 is drawing to a close and 2013 is knocking at our door.  We are one year closer to leaving this earthly realm.  Before we start thinking about the future, let us ask ourselves two very important questions.    Have I drawn closer to God through His Word and prayer?  (James 4:8)  Have I set a good example to the world?  (Matthew 5:13-16)

As we look ahead and make plans for the coming year, let us be like the emu and the kangaroo.  Neither can move backward.  The emu has three toes on the front of its foot.  If it tries to go backward, it falls down.  The kangaroo’s long heavy tail prevents it from going backward.  Let us look ahead and make plans; set goals for us as the Lord’s church in Granby.  Goals help to give us direction and purpose.  Proverbs 2:5 tells us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance. . .”  Keep this saying in mind as we move through this lesson, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

Body:

I.  Jesus Had Goals While on Earth

·  Fulfill the Law of Moses.  (Matthew 5:17)

·  Save the lost.  (Luke 19:10)

·  Do the will of the Father.  (John 4:34)

·  “It is finishes.”  (John 19:30)

Since we are to follow Christ’s example, we need to be about the Father’s business and work to accomplish the will of the Father in our own lives. 

II.  How to Set Goals and Keep Them

·  Text:  Philippines 3:12-14

1.  It requires work and patience.  (Hebrews 12:1-2)  Paul had been a Christian for some time, but was not perfect.  He knew he had much work left to do.

2.  It requires dedication.  “One thing I do.”  We must have single-mindedness and not allow the things of the world to distract us.  (I Corinthians 9:24-27)

3.  We must not dwell on the past accomplishments or failures.  (Luke 9:62)

4.  It requires enthusiasm, “straining forward.”  Look forward to the future.  (Psalm 16:5-8)

5.  It requires determination, “press on.”  “Strive”  (Luke 13:24)

6.  It requires setting priorities, heavenly goals.  (Colossians 3:1-2)

III.  Heavenly Goals

·  Ask ourselves some personal questions first. 

What would I truly like to become? 

What character quality if developed would make me a better parent, sibling, spouse, child. . .?

1.  I will recognize the value of time.  I will do all I can not to waste it.  (Psalm 39:4, Ephesians 5:15-16

2.  I will develop holiness.  (I Peter 1:15-16)  This means being dedicated to God; set apart for His service.  We must be different from the crowds due to God’s qualities in our lives.  His priorities are our priorities.

3.  I will try to be like Daniel in my prayer life.  (Daniel 6:10)  Spend regular periods each day talking with God.

4.  I will set aside quality time to become a better Bible student.  (II Timothy 2:15)

5.  I will visit a neighbor, co-worker. . . once a month and try to develop a meaningful relationship.  “Become all things to all men. . .”  (Galatians 6:10)

6.  I will try to persuade others to become a Christian.  (Matthew 28:19-20)    Use several methods:  invitations, tracts, CD’s, Spiritual Sword. . .

7.  I will give God my best, in everything!  If possible, increase my giving.  (Malachi 1:6:14)

Conclusion:

These are all worthwhile goals.  Write them down and keep them handy. 

Bobby Stafford     

December 30, 2012

 


 

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Matt 11:28-29
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."

The church of Christ in Granby Missouri

516 East Pine St.
P.O. Box 664
Granby, Mo. 64844
(417) 472-7109

Email: Bobby Stafford
Email: David Hersey