SERIES: THE GROWING CHURCH (3 OF 3)

NOTE: This sermon is part 5 and 6 of a 6 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 5: Lengthening the Cords - Part 1
Series: The Growing Church
Stuart Briscoe
Isaiah 61:1-11

Jehovah raised up different people to liberate the children of Israel from their exile, as Isaiah had predicted. Later Jesus said that He would fulfill the prophet's words in a much greater deliverance (See Luke 4:17 21). God still offers salvation through people-those who know how to "lengthen the cords."

I. Those Who Lengthen the Cords Testify to the Sovereign Lord.

A. They understand His self revelation. vv. 8-9
1. His love of justice.

2. His hatred of iniquity.

3. His promise of faithfulness.

4. His offer of blessing.

B. They experience His presence. v. 10
1. They speak of intimacy…"my God."

2. They speak of ecstasy…"my soul rejoices."

C. They demonstrate His grace. v. 11

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Part 6: Lengthening the Cords - Part 2
Series: The Growing Church
Stuart Briscoe
Isaiah 61:1-3

In the same way that the exiles returning from Babylon needed to know what they were going to do and how they were going to do it, the church of today needs to be clear about objectives and the means of achieving them. Isaiah's words give us readily applicable instructions.

I. Our Motivation.

A. The Spirit imposes an understanding of Lordship. v. 1; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18

B. The Spirit impresses a concern for people. 2 Corinthians 5:16f

C. The Spirit imparts a confidence in the gospel. vv. 4 7
1. Confidence in its relevance.

2. Confidence in its transforming power.

D. The Spirit imprints a sense of calling. v. 6
1. He has sent me. v. 1

2. Priests of the LORD.

3. Ministers of our God.

II. Our Mandate.

A. The mandate to preach.