CONNECT AND GROW
This morning, the theme I have chosen is “Connect and Grow,” and I will be focusing on the importance of connection in our journey towards maturity. The concept of connection implies that we do not develop in isolation. In the book of John, specifically in Chapter 15, Jesus uses the analogy of a vine and branches to illustrate this point. He emphasizes that those who remain connected to Him will bear much fruit, highlighting the necessity of this connection for growth and productivity. Without this vital connection, we are unable to achieve anything of significance.
Jesus further explains that abiding in Him and allowing His words to dwell within us will lead to answered prayers and glorification of the Father through the abundance of fruit produced. This process of bearing fruit is not merely about physical productivity but also about fulfilling our destiny and manifesting the potential that God has placed within us. Just as a tree grows from a seedling to maturity before bearing fruit, humans also need to undergo a process of growth and development to reach their full potential. This growth is essential for us to bring forth the gifts and abilities that lie dormant within us.
As individuals mature, they gain the capacity to fulfill their purpose and contribute to the world around them. Just as physical maturity is necessary for procreation, spiritual and emotional maturity are essential for us to bear fruit in our lives. When we fail to see signs of growth and development in ourselves or others, it can lead to feelings of unease and a sense of stagnation. Therefore, the journey towards maturity involves not only personal growth but also the ability to impact others positively through the fruits of our labor. By understanding the importance of connection and growth, we can strive to become true disciples of Christ and fulfill our divine purpose on this earth.
It is crucial to understand the significance of connection in our lives.
Connection, whether it be with others or with a community, plays a vital role in our growth and development.
Just like a child needs a family for their natural and psychological development, we as individuals also need connections to thrive. In the context of spiritual growth, being part of a community enhances our spiritual development and makes it not only possible but also more profound.
Reflecting on our existence, we realize that being born into the human race is just the beginning. It is when we are embraced by a family that we truly start to experience life in its fullness. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, being a Christian is just the first step. To truly grow and mature in our faith, we need to be part of a spiritual family that supports, guides, and holds us accountable. Without this connection, our spiritual growth may be stunted, just like a child’s development without a family.
As Charlie ‘Tremendous’ Jones aptly puts it, our growth and transformation are greatly influenced by the books we read and the people we meet. This emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with the right kind of connections that will help us become the best version of ourselves. Just as a child thrives in a loving and supportive family environment, we too flourish in a community that nurtures our spiritual growth and helps us become more like Christ. Therefore, let us remember that true fruitfulness and maturity come not in isolation but in connection, in community, and in family.
Two significant issues were highlighted by Jesus in John 15, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Him and His words. He mentioned that bearing fruit, which symbolizes change, growth, and maturity, is only achievable through a deep connection with Christ and His teachings. This connection with Christ is essential as it allows us to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit, leading to spiritual growth and the manifestation of desirable fruits in our lives. However, Jesus also emphasized the significance of connecting with others in order to bear fruit, indicating that true transformation and maturity occur within a community of believers.
The concept of personal growth and development was further elaborated by emphasizing the impact of the books we read and the people we interact with on our lives. It was pointed out that our future selves will largely be shaped by the knowledge we acquire from reading and the influence of the individuals we surround ourselves with. By paying attention to the type of information we expose ourselves to and the quality of relationships we cultivate, we can actively participate in our own transformation and development. This aligns with the biblical teaching in Romans 12:2, which encourages believers to renew their minds through the transformative power of God’s Word.
When believers come together in a community, the interaction with the Word of God becomes a defining characteristic of their fellowship. A strong community of believers is marked by their engagement with the Scriptures, challenging each other with the truth found in God’s Word. This communal approach to studying and discussing the Bible fosters spiritual growth and deepens the connections between individuals. By prioritizing the truth of God’s Word in their interactions and conversations, believers can strengthen their faith, support one another, and experience personal transformation through the renewing of their minds.
During my childhood, my mother had a deep admiration for Ebenezer Obey, a renowned musician. She was so enamored with his music that it became a significant part of our household discussions. Whenever any topic arose, my mother would often interject with a reference to something Ebenezer Obey had said or sung. This was particularly evident in her interactions with my father, where the influence of Ebenezer Obey’s music was palpable. It is important to note that my family background was Muslim, and yet, the impact of Ebenezer Obey’s music was undeniable. His songs were deeply rooted in scriptural-based principles, which resonated with my family, despite our religious background.
Ebenezer Obey’s music was a constant presence in our lives, and his band, the Inter-Reformers, played a significant role in shaping the musical landscape of the time. It is worth mentioning that if you are unfamiliar with Ebenezer Obey, I would encourage you to look him up online. His influence extended beyond Nigeria, and his music touched the lives of many, much like the parables and stories of Jesus. The impact of his music was so profound that it even influenced my own journey of faith. As I grew older and embraced Christianity, I found myself surrounded by believers who, like my mother, drew inspiration from the word of God through the lens of Ebenezer Obey’s music.
The power of music, particularly that of Ebenezer Obey, cannot be understated. It has the ability to transcend cultural and religious boundaries, resonating with people from all walks of life. Even in my own experience, I have witnessed the transformative impact of music, as it played a pivotal role in shaping my upbringing and later, my spiritual journey. The influence of Ebenezer Obey’s music, much like that of other influential musicians, has the capacity to leave a lasting impression on individuals, transcending generations and cultural divides.
I recall a time when I was singing a popular song, surrounded by some of my friends. The song in question was “Baby Can I Hold You Tonight” by Tracy Chapman, a classic that many people enjoy. As I sang along to the lyrics, one of my friends made a comment that made me pause and reflect. They jokingly asked if I planned on holding anyone that night, which made me realize the potential impact of the song’s message. Despite being a new Christian at the time, I hadn’t considered how the lyrics could influence my thoughts and actions.
The conversation with my friend made me reassess my approach to music and its lyrics. Even though I had always loved that particular song and had the entire album, I started to question the messages conveyed in the songs I listened to. It was a pivotal moment for me, as I began to understand the importance of being mindful of the content I consumed, especially in terms of music. Without any explicit guidance from others, I took it upon myself to scrutinize the lyrics of songs and consider how they aligned with my values and beliefs.
This experience taught me the significance of surrounding myself with people who challenge me to think critically and reflect on my choices. The simple comment from my friend sparked a journey of self-discovery and introspection regarding the media I consumed. It made me realize that even seemingly harmless songs could have a subtle influence on my mindset and behavior. From that point on, I made a conscious effort to be more discerning about the music I listened to, ensuring that it resonated with my newfound faith and values. This incident served as a reminder of the power of music and the importance of being intentional about the content we expose ourselves to.
The importance of the company one keeps cannot be overstated when it comes to personal growth. While aging is a natural process, maturing and developing as a person is a deliberate and intentional effort. Many individuals may be advancing in age, but they are not necessarily growing in maturity. This lack of growth can often be attributed to the fact that they are not surrounded by the right people. In order to truly mature, it is essential to be in the right company. This concept is highlighted in Galatians Chapter 4, where it is emphasized that intentional growth is closely tied to the company one keeps.
In Galatians Chapter 4, verse 1, it is pointed out that intentional growth is necessary for individuals to reach their full potential. The analogy of an heir is used to illustrate this point. The heir, despite being the master of all, is not able to fully access their inheritance until they have matured and grown. This intentional growth is facilitated by being placed under the guidance and supervision of guardians and stewards. These individuals are responsible for preparing the heir for the responsibilities and privileges that come with their inheritance. The deliberate nature of this process underscores the idea that growth is not automatic, but rather a result of intentional effort and the right connections.
The deliberate and intentional nature of growth is further emphasized in Galatians Chapter 4, verse 2, where it is highlighted that the heir is under the care of guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. This underscores the idea that growth is a process that requires preparation and guidance. The father, in this context, represents the authority figure who determines when the individual is ready to assume their full responsibilities and privileges. The distance between being an heir with no access to authority and being an heir with full access to everything the father has is defined as growth. This distance can only be bridged through intentional effort, the right connections, and the guidance of those who are responsible for nurturing and preparing individuals for maturity and responsibility.
The Bible teaches us that God has a way of revealing important lessons to us through unexpected sources. Sometimes, our teachers may not be who we expect them to be. They could be a young child, a colleague at work, or even someone we do not particularly like. These individuals, whether intentionally or not, play a role in guiding us towards our true purpose and helping us grow spiritually. They serve as guardians and stewards, preparing us for the journey towards fulfilling our destinies in Christ Jesus.
As heirs in Christ, we are promised both inheritance and authority. However, many Christians struggle with embracing their spiritual authority due to a lack of growth. True growth, as emphasized in the Bible, is achieved within a strong community of believers. Jesus himself surrounded himself with a diverse group of individuals, including tax collectors and sinners, but he also had a close-knit inner circle that provided support, validation, and guidance. This inner circle helped shape his destiny and allowed him to impact others in a profound way.
When it comes to personal growth, it is essential to have a balance between reaching out to a wide range of individuals to populate the kingdom of God and cultivating a close inner circle that fosters spiritual growth and development. Jesus’s example shows us the importance of having a core group of individuals who can speak into our lives, validate our purpose, and help us fulfill our destinies. By surrounding ourselves with a diverse community of believers and a select inner circle, we can navigate the journey towards spiritual maturity and authority with wisdom and discernment.
It is crucial for us to understand the significance of surrounding ourselves with people who can guide us and help us grow spiritually. These individuals, regardless of their age or status, serve as stewards and tutors in our lives. They play a vital role in bridging the gap between where we are currently and where we aspire to be. By tapping into the wisdom and guidance of these individuals, we are not only able to mature but also to develop a deeper connection with God.
The fruits of the spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23, are essential for our spiritual growth. These fruits, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, are relational in nature. In order to bear these fruits, we must be willing to cultivate meaningful relationships with others. Jesus emphasized the importance of remaining connected to Him and to a community in order to grow spiritually and bear fruit that glorifies God.
Therefore, it is clear that our spiritual growth is intertwined with our relationships with others. We cannot claim to be walking in the spirit and bearing the fruits of the spirit if we isolate ourselves from those who can nurture and support us in our faith journey. As we strive to grow spiritually, let us remember the importance of staying connected with individuals who can help us cultivate the fruits of the spirit in our lives. By embracing these relationships and remaining open to the guidance of those around us, we can continue to mature in our faith and bear fruit that reflects the love and grace of God.
Demonstrating love without being connected to anyone can indeed be challenging. Love is often shown through acts of giving and forgiving, which require a recipient. Without someone to give to or forgive, it becomes difficult to prove that one is a loving person. Similarly, joy is another fruit of the spirit that is best shared with others. Even in the face of adversity, maintaining joy in one’s heart and sharing it with others is a true testament to one’s joyful spirit.
Peace, on the other hand, is not merely the absence of chaos but rather a sense of serenity amidst chaos. Human interactions can often bring chaos into our lives, making it challenging to maintain inner peace. However, by allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us, we can find a sense of calmness even in the most chaotic situations. This requires patience and long-suffering, as love is said to suffer long according to the Bible.
Developing the fruits of the spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and patience, is a relational process that thrives within connections and communities. It is through interactions with others that we are able to cultivate these qualities and grow spiritually. Being part of a community of believers provides the necessary support and environment for spiritual growth, as we learn to demonstrate these fruits in our relationships with others. Therefore, it is essential to be actively engaged in a community of believers to foster spiritual growth and maturity.
It is essential for believers to not only connect with each other but also to connect with Christ in order to experience the grace of God flowing into their lives. When the spirit of God engages our hearts, we will begin to witness real and tangible growth in our spiritual journey. Many Christians are often compared to Christmas trees, adorned with material possessions and gifts of the spirit. However, it is crucial to remember that it is not the gifts themselves that matter, but the fruit that is produced as a result of our connection to Christ.
While it may be impressive to operate in spiritual gifts, Jesus emphasized the importance of bearing fruit rather than just relying on gifts.
God can use His gifts on anyone or anything, as seen in the Bible where even a donkey prophesied. Therefore, it is not enough to be like a Christmas tree filled with bling bling stuff, but rather to seek out real fruit that nourishes our spirits. It is vital to focus on producing fruit that reflects our connection to Christ, rather than solely relying on spiritual gifts that may not necessarily lead to spiritual growth.
As believers, it is crucial to strive to be like real trees that bear fruit, rather than just being like Christmas trees adorned with gifts and material possessions. While spiritual gifts such as prophecy and miracles are valuable, it is equally important to cultivate the fruit of the spirit in our lives. The fruit of the spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, is what truly reflects our connection to Christ and sustains us in our spiritual journey. By focusing on producing fruit rather than just relying on gifts, we can experience genuine spiritual growth and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on our Christian faith.
It is essential to understand that when individuals seek to find Christ-likeness in others, they are not merely looking for material gifts. Rather, they are searching for the manifestation of the fruits of the spirit. It is intriguing to note that the concept of gifts is not limited to being part of a community. In fact, one can draw parallels to the life of John the Baptist, who resided in the wilderness, dedicating his time to prayer and fasting. It is believed that gifts can come upon an individual even in solitude, away from the hustle and bustle of society.
However, when one eventually emerges from seclusion and interacts with others, like John the Baptist did, it is crucial to maintain a balance. Simply possessing gifts is not enough. Jesus emphasized the importance of bearing fruits, as it is through these fruits that one’s discipleship is truly recognized. In one of His parables, Jesus illustrated a scenario where individuals claimed to have performed miracles in His name, yet they were not acknowledged because they lacked the essence of bearing fruit. This serves as a poignant reminder that true connection with others goes beyond mere displays of gifts.
As we navigate our relationships and connections with others, it is imperative to reflect on the demonstration of the fruit of the spirit. It is easy to encounter challenges in our interactions with family members, friends, or even spouses. However, the key lies in embracing the grace to connect with individuals who may seem undeserving or difficult to love. By adopting a perspective aligned with Christ’s teachings, we can cultivate meaningful connections and foster a spirit of understanding and compassion towards others, even in the face of adversity. Let us strive to embody the fruits of the spirit in our interactions, as this is a true reflection of our discipleship and connection with Christ.
In the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel of John, the account of the Last Supper is narrated. This significant event in the life of Jesus is a poignant moment where He displayed an act of humility and love towards His disciples, despite knowing that some of them would betray, deny, and desert Him. Jesus, aware of the impending betrayal and denial, chose to wash the feet of His disciples, a task usually reserved for servants. This act of servanthood and love was a powerful demonstration of Jesus’ character and teachings.
The example set by Jesus at the Last Supper serves as a profound lesson for all believers. It challenges us to reflect on our relationships with those around us, especially with those whom we may find difficult to love or respect. Jesus’ actions towards His disciples, even in the face of their impending betrayal, highlight the importance of showing love and grace to others, regardless of their shortcomings or faults. This message resonates with the idea of forgiveness, compassion, and unconditional love that Jesus embodied throughout His ministry.
As we contemplate the scene of the Last Supper and Jesus’ interactions with His disciples, we are reminded of the transformative power of love and humility. Jesus’ willingness to serve and love those who would soon turn against Him is a powerful example of selflessness and grace. It challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards those we may find challenging or unlovable, urging us to emulate Jesus’ spirit of forgiveness and compassion. By following the example of Jesus at the Last Supper, we are called to demonstrate patience, longsuffering, and joy in our relationships with others, reflecting the love and grace that Jesus showed to His disciples.
Lazarus was miraculously raised from the dead, a feat that left many in awe of the power of Jesus.
However, even in the midst of such incredible miracles, Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, denied knowing Him. This denial was a stark contrast to the loyalty and devotion that Jesus expected from his inner circle. Peter’s actions were puzzling, especially considering the profound experiences he had shared with Jesus.
Despite witnessing the extraordinary miracles performed by Jesus, Peter’s denial of Him was a betrayal that foreshadowed his future actions. It is perplexing to see someone who had been so close to Jesus, who had witnessed His teachings and miracles firsthand, turn away from Him in such a critical moment. Peter’s refusal to allow Jesus to wash his feet, claiming that Jesus was too great to perform such a humble task, was a reflection of his lack of understanding of the true nature of Jesus’ teachings.
The narrative highlights the complexities of human nature and the challenges of faith and loyalty. It serves as a reminder that even those who have witnessed great miracles and teachings can falter in their beliefs. The story of Peter’s denial underscores the importance of humility, faith, and unwavering devotion in the face of adversity. It is a cautionary tale that urges us to reflect on our own actions and beliefs, reminding us of the need to stay true to our convictions even in the most challenging circumstances.
Jesus emphasized the importance of developing the fruit of the spirit within oneself in order to truly love those who are difficult to love. He compared this development to a child learning to walk, stating that being in a community of believers can provide the necessary support and encouragement for spiritual growth.
He urged those without a community to attend to find one, emphasizing the importance of being grounded in a church and submitting oneself to a group of people who can help in spiritual growth and accountability. This support system, he explained, can help individuals to watch their steps in Christ and continue to grow in their faith.