Here is a recap of our message from this weekend...

From Weary to Worthy: Embracing Jesus' Invitations for Transformation and Purpose

In week 2 of Influencers, the focus shifts to the essence of discipleship under Jesus' invitation, highlighting the transformative journey from striving for self-worth to embracing a life of purpose and peace. Through an invitational rather than obligatory approach, Jesus calls us into a relationship that offers rest for the weary and a lighter life aligned with His will. The sermon unpacks this invitation through the perspectives of following, resting in, and aligning our lives with Jesus, urging us to embody discipleship in its truest form. 

Embracing Discipleship

Discipleship is more than a process of learning; it's an all-encompassing experience of imbibing and executing wisdom gleaned from a mentor. We defined it as "a leaner who FOLLOWS a master teacher". It goes beyond knowledge into a willingness to actually reflect the life of the teacher. This is no ordinary study - it's an adoption of teachings, going beyond the surface and actually changing the behaviors of the student. A disciple's journey does not merely involve compliance but a deeper application of wisdom into the very fabric of their life.

In the call to follow Jesus, we are given a two-fold instruction. We are leave behind the things that hinder our relationship with him and to embrace the call into a new life and purpose. This is not demanded of us, but it is an invitational call that Jesus extends to each and every one of us.

Weekly Bible Study List

1. Matthew 11:28-30 - An invitation from Jesus for rest and discipleship.
2. Matthew 22:1-14 - The parable of the wedding banquet, illustrating the inclusivity of Jesus' invitation.
3. Galatians 6:2 - Encouraging believers to bear one another's burdens.
4. John 10:11 - Jesus as the good shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. 

3 Invitations We Are Offered By Jesus:

1. The Invitation to Follow: Discipleship is an invitation, not an obligation. God doesn't force anyone into a relationship but extends an open hand, lovingly asking us to follow Him. This invitation is inclusive, extending not just to the 'righteous' or 'religious' but to anyone who is weary and seeking rest.
2. The Invitation to Rest: In our weariness and burden, Jesus offers rest. His grace isn't something to be earned or worked for, but a gift freely given. In Him, we find the rest and peace our lives desperately need.
3. The Invitation to a Lighter Life: Jesus invites us to align our lives with His, taking His yoke upon us. While this doesn't mean a life devoid of challenges, it does mean that those challenges are now shared with someone stronger than us - Jesus. 

Acceptance of these invitations brings about a radical transformation, changing not just our external world but our internal realities. Discipleship as Jesus intended is a journey from a weary and burdened life to a lighter, restful, and ultimately, a worthy life.

From Sermon to Action

The call to action is clear: come to Jesus, surrender your burdens, receive His rest, and walk in alignment with Him. Start the journey to transformation and purpose today.

Worship Setlist

1. Praise
2. Praise You Anywhere
3. More Than Able

Notable Sermon Quotes

1. "If we're not careful, we'll allow our fake selves to have the influence, and leave our real selves to have the brokenness."
2. "You don’t need to find a situation you like so that you find Jesus, you need to start finding Jesus in situations you don’t like."
3. "We find rest when we stop trying to meet the expectations of people, and we start resting in the presence of God."
4. "The longer you keep the real you hidden, the longer you keep the hurt you present"

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