Public recognition is not synonymous with Godly reward.
We just marked our third week at Nippon Kan Theatre, where we continued our series in the Book of John - a series which both comforts and challenges us.
This past weekend Pastor Filmore walked us through the unique store of a man who didn't search the spotlight yet still found impact within God's work. Andrew, first introduced on the basis of being Peter's brother, was one of the first disciples to follow Jesus. Biblical and world history has never forgotten Peter, but through examining John 1:35-42 we learn that between the two brothers, Andrew was the first to encounter the Messiah and then bring that news to Peter. That being said, we do not hear about Andrew very often, yet we see how he found rhythm within God's timing.
Have you ever felt that no matter how much effort you put into something, your efforts have gone unnoticed? Andrew's life illuminates this subject.
Peter, the church icon, wasn't brought to Jesus because of a miracle or theology lesson. Rather, it was through his brother's testimony that he found Jesus. Andrew brought Peter to Jesus. This one individual not only changed the trajectory of his brother's life but church history as a whole. His life exemplified the understanding of not needing fame in order to still have an impact.
What is your goal - is it recognition or reward from heaven?
In this message, we are encouraged to go beyond our external images and take an internal reflection on who we are. Far too often we value human praise above praise from our Heavenly Father leading to chaos in our identity. We seek validation from different sources, leaving us lost. Pastor Filmore challenges us to confront the dangers of wanting to be perceived as good rather than actually being good. We are reminded of the importance found in how we walk with God in private. If we take care of our private lives, our public lives will take care of themselves.
Influence is in God's control. Our security is found in Jesus, not in what we do.
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Message: Filmore Bouldes
Videography: David Mazara & Onechurch Creative
Production: Aa Hernandez & Onechurch Productions