July 14th, 2025
by Dalton Jenkins
by Dalton Jenkins
Making the Personal Decision to Follow Jesus
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is an invitation extended to everyone, regardless of background, status, or nationality. Each of us stands at a crossroads, faced with a personal choice to either accept Jesus as Lord and Savior or turn away from Him.
What does the Bible say about who can be saved?
The universal nature of salvation is clearly stated throughout scripture:
John 3:16 reminds us that "God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."
In Acts 17:28, we're reminded that "in Him we live and move and have our being."
Romans 10:13 declares that "whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Acts 10:34-35 states that "God shows no partiality, but in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him."
This invitation reaches across every nation, to people of all statuses. As Peter declared, "God shows no partiality." The Gospel is available to everyone - whether you're Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, atheist, or from any other background.
Why do some people reject the Gospel message?
Despite being universally offered, the Gospel doesn't always receive a warm welcome. It often challenges people's pride and disrupts their way of living. Some people, when hearing about Jesus, become angry or defensive. Others try to shut down conversations about faith.
The Gospel can be offensive because it confronts us with truths we may not want to hear. It tells us we need salvation - that we can't save ourselves. This message challenges our self-sufficiency and pride.
What can we learn from the Herodian dynasty?
The responses of three generations of the Herodian dynasty provide powerful examples of different ways people reject Christ:
Herod the Great actively opposed Jesus, seeking to kill Him when the wise men announced His birth. Some people, when hearing the Gospel, actively fight against it.
Herod Agrippa I was so consumed with pride that when people praised him as having "the voice of a god," he accepted their worship instead of giving glory to God. The Bible tells us he was struck down and eaten by worms. Many today reject Christ because of pride in their accomplishments, education, or wealth.
Herod Agrippa II heard Paul's powerful testimony and said, "Almost thou persuadest me to become a Christian." He was close to accepting the truth but ultimately walked away. Many people today are "almost persuaded" but never make the decision to follow Christ.
Why is making a decision urgent?
But these excuses won't matter when your time runs out. The Bible says, "It is appointed unto man once to die, and after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).
How should we respond to the Gospel?
Unlike the Herodian dynasty, we should:
Accept the invitation - Don't let pride, distractions, or the opinions of others keep you from accepting Christ.
Share the message - Like Paul, use every opportunity to present the Gospel to everyone you meet, regardless of their position or status in life.
Respond with urgency - Don't say "almost" like Agrippa II. Make your decision today.
Life Application
Am I living with the urgency that comes from knowing time is limited?
Who in my life needs to hear about Jesus before their time runs out?
What excuses am I making that prevent me from fully following Christ?
How can I share my testimony with others this week?
Remember, it's not enough to almost believe. Make your decision today.
What does the Bible say about who can be saved?
The universal nature of salvation is clearly stated throughout scripture:
John 3:16 reminds us that "God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."
In Acts 17:28, we're reminded that "in Him we live and move and have our being."
Romans 10:13 declares that "whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Acts 10:34-35 states that "God shows no partiality, but in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him."
This invitation reaches across every nation, to people of all statuses. As Peter declared, "God shows no partiality." The Gospel is available to everyone - whether you're Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, atheist, or from any other background.
Why do some people reject the Gospel message?
Despite being universally offered, the Gospel doesn't always receive a warm welcome. It often challenges people's pride and disrupts their way of living. Some people, when hearing about Jesus, become angry or defensive. Others try to shut down conversations about faith.
The Gospel can be offensive because it confronts us with truths we may not want to hear. It tells us we need salvation - that we can't save ourselves. This message challenges our self-sufficiency and pride.
What can we learn from the Herodian dynasty?
The responses of three generations of the Herodian dynasty provide powerful examples of different ways people reject Christ:
Herod the Great actively opposed Jesus, seeking to kill Him when the wise men announced His birth. Some people, when hearing the Gospel, actively fight against it.
Herod Agrippa I was so consumed with pride that when people praised him as having "the voice of a god," he accepted their worship instead of giving glory to God. The Bible tells us he was struck down and eaten by worms. Many today reject Christ because of pride in their accomplishments, education, or wealth.
Herod Agrippa II heard Paul's powerful testimony and said, "Almost thou persuadest me to become a Christian." He was close to accepting the truth but ultimately walked away. Many people today are "almost persuaded" but never make the decision to follow Christ.
Why is making a decision urgent?
- None of us knows how much time we have. The Bible says, "Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, today is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2).
- We often hear stories of people who went to bed and never woke up, or who were in the middle of their daily activities when their lives suddenly ended. Your time will run out - the question is whether you'll be ready when it does.
- Some try to hide behind excuses:
- "It's a generational curse in my family"
- "I'll get to it later when I'm older"
- "I need to fix some things in my life first"
But these excuses won't matter when your time runs out. The Bible says, "It is appointed unto man once to die, and after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).
How should we respond to the Gospel?
Unlike the Herodian dynasty, we should:
Accept the invitation - Don't let pride, distractions, or the opinions of others keep you from accepting Christ.
Share the message - Like Paul, use every opportunity to present the Gospel to everyone you meet, regardless of their position or status in life.
Respond with urgency - Don't say "almost" like Agrippa II. Make your decision today.
Life Application
- The stories of the Herodian dynasty remind us that the Gospel reaches everyone - kings, prisoners, Jews, Gentiles, you and me. It is a universal invitation, but it requires a personal decision.
- This week, consider your own response to Jesus. Have you fully committed to following Him, or are you still saying "almost"? If you haven't made that decision, don't wait - your time is now.
- For those who have already accepted Christ, consider who in your life needs to hear this message. Like Paul, be bold in sharing your testimony, even when faced with opposition or ridicule.
Am I living with the urgency that comes from knowing time is limited?
Who in my life needs to hear about Jesus before their time runs out?
What excuses am I making that prevent me from fully following Christ?
How can I share my testimony with others this week?
Remember, it's not enough to almost believe. Make your decision today.
Devotions
Day 1: The Universal Invitation
Devotional
God's love knows no boundaries. It doesn't discriminate based on nationality, social status, or personal background. The invitation to salvation through Jesus Christ is extended to every single person on this planet. This truth should both humble and encourage us. Think about it: the Creator of the universe, the One who formed the stars and set the planets in motion, desires a relationship with you. Not because you've earned it or deserve it, but simply because He loves you. His invitation isn't reserved for the elite, the educated, or those who have it all together. It's for everyone. In a world that constantly divides people into categories of worthy and unworthy, God's universal invitation stands in stark contrast. He sees beyond our external appearances, past mistakes, and current struggles. He sees a heart that He created and longs to redeem. Today, remember that you are included in this invitation. No matter where you've been or what you've done, God's arms are open wide to welcome you home. And as recipients of this incredible grace, we're called to extend the same invitation to others, recognizing that everyone we meet is someone God loves deeply.
Bible Verse
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16
Reflection Question
How does knowing that God's invitation is extended to everyone, regardless of background or status, change the way you view both yourself and others you might consider different from you?
Quote
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is an invitation extended to everyone. No matter who you are or where you are from. Each of us stands at a crossroads faced with personal decisions, personal choices to either accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your universal invitation of love and salvation. Help me to fully embrace this truth for myself and extend the same grace to others. Remove any barriers of pride or prejudice that prevent me from seeing others as You see them. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, I praise You for Your boundless love and grace, extended to all people in every nation.
Response: I surrender my prejudices and assumptions. Thank You for including me in Your great redemptive plan.
Requests: Open my eyes to those around me who need to hear this invitation and give me the courage to speak with love.
Readiness: Today, I will look for opportunities to share Your invitation of salvation with someone I might otherwise overlook.
Day 2: Overcoming Pride
Devotional
Pride is perhaps the most significant barrier between us and God. It whispers that we don't need help, that we can manage on our own, that surrendering to God is weakness. Yet the Gospel message directly challenges this mindset. When we encounter Jesus, we must confront the uncomfortable truth that we cannot save ourselves. This realization can be jarring, especially in a culture that celebrates self-sufficiency and personal achievement. The Gospel asks us to acknowledge our brokenness and need for a Savior. Herod Agrippa I provides a sobering example of pride's destructive power. He accepted worship meant for God alone, placing himself in God's position. His story reminds us that pride doesn't just damage our relationship with God—it fundamentally distorts our understanding of who we are. True freedom comes when we release the exhausting burden of self-sufficiency and embrace our dependence on God. When we acknowledge our limitations and need for grace, we open ourselves to experience God's transformative power in our lives. Humility before God isn't weakness—it's the beginning of strength rooted in truth.
Bible Verse
"God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." - 1 Timothy 2:3-4
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might pride be preventing you from fully surrendering to God and experiencing His grace?
Quote
I can see how the Gospel sometimes offends people. It challenges people's pride. It makes you discomfort. It disrupts your way of living.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times my pride has created distance between us. Help me recognize when I'm relying on my own strength rather than Yours. Create in me a humble heart that acknowledges my need for You in every aspect of my life. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, I honor You as the only true source of wisdom, strength, and salvation.
Response: I confess my pride and self-reliance. I lay it down before You.
Requests: Teach me to walk in humility. Show me how to depend on You more deeply each day.
Readiness: Today, I choose humility by seeking Your will over my own.
Day 3: Beyond Almost
Devotional
Herod Agrippa II stands as a powerful warning in Scripture. After hearing Paul's compelling testimony about Jesus, he famously responded, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." He recognized truth but stopped short of commitment. How many of us live in this dangerous "almost" territory? We understand the Gospel intellectually. We appreciate its beauty and wisdom. We might even attend church regularly and identify with Christian culture. But we haven't fully surrendered our hearts and lives to Jesus. "Almost" is comfortable because it requires no real change. We can maintain control while appearing spiritual. But "almost" never saves anyone. It's like standing at the edge of a pool on a hot day—you can see the refreshing water, but until you jump in, you'll never experience its relief. God doesn't call us to partial commitment or intellectual agreement. He invites us to complete surrender—to move beyond "almost" to "altogether." Today is the day to cross that line, to stop standing at the threshold and step fully into the life God has for you. Don't let "almost" be your epitaph.
Bible Verse
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." - Mark 16:15-16
Reflection Question
What is holding you back from moving beyond "almost" to full commitment to Christ in your life?
Quote
I don't want to almost catch you. I want the word of God to hold your heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don't want to be someone who almost follows You. Give me courage to move beyond hesitation and fully commit my life to You. Remove whatever barriers are keeping me from complete surrender. I choose today to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, You are worthy of full devotion and absolute surrender.
Response: I confess my hesitation and my half-heartedness. I want to be all in.
Requests: Help me take the final step of total surrender. Remove fear and grant me boldness.
Readiness: Today, I step beyond “almost” into full obedience and commitment.
Day 4: The Urgency of Now
Devotional
Time is the one resource we can never recover once it's spent. Yet when it comes to spiritual decisions, we often act as if we have an unlimited supply. We postpone, delay, and procrastinate, assuming tomorrow will always be available for the important choice of following Jesus. The reality is sobering: none of us knows how much time we have. The Bible consistently emphasizes the urgency of responding to God's invitation today, not tomorrow. Every heartbeat is a gift, not a guarantee. Common excuses abound: "I'll get right with God when I'm older," "I need to fix my life first," or "I'm not ready yet." But these rationalizations miss a crucial truth—we don't clean ourselves up to come to Jesus; we come to Jesus to be cleaned. The time between our birth and death is brief, even at its longest. In this short span, the most consequential decision we make is how we respond to Jesus Christ. Don't let another day pass without settling this most important question. The invitation is extended today, but tomorrow is promised to no one.
Bible Verse
"For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." - Romans 10:13
Reflection Question
What specific excuses have you been using to delay fully committing your life to Christ, and what would it look like to address them today rather than tomorrow?
Quote
Every one of us have two dates that's certain in life. The time we born and the time we exit this world. And in between it, you better get right with God.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for treating time as if it were unlimited. I recognize the urgency of responding to Your invitation now, not later. Remove my excuses and give me courage to act today. Thank You for Your patience with me, even when I've delayed. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: God, You are eternal and outside of time, yet You step into our moments to call us to Yourself.
Response: I confess my procrastination. I choose to respond now.
Requests: Help me live with urgency and spiritual awareness. Remove all excuses.
Readiness: Today, I will act on what You’ve shown me—no more delay.
Day 5: Sharing What Matters Most
Devotional
When we truly grasp the universal invitation of the Gospel and experience its transformative power in our lives, sharing it with others becomes not just a duty but a natural overflow of our joy. The message that changed us is too important to keep to ourselves. Every person we encounter—family members, colleagues, neighbors, even strangers—stands at their own spiritual crossroads. Some actively oppose God, others are blinded by pride, and many are stuck in the "almost" of indecision. Our testimony might be the very thing God uses to help them take the next step toward Him. Sharing our faith isn't about perfect theological arguments or pressured sales tactics. It's about authentically communicating the difference Jesus has made in our lives and extending the same invitation that was once extended to us. We plant seeds, but God causes the growth. Remember: we may be the only Bible some people ever read. Our lives speak volumes about what we truly believe. As we live out our faith with integrity and speak about it with gentleness and respect, we participate in God's redemptive work in the world around us.
Bible Verse
"For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" - Romans 10:11-13
Reflection Question
Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus, and what specific step can you take this week to share God's love with them?
Quote
This is why you and I must take every opportunity to preach the gospel. You don't know when is the last time you're gonna say something to that person. You don't know when that person is gonna have that last message of salvation preached to them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me both courage and compassion to share Your good news with others. Help me recognize opportunities to speak about You and live in a way that draws others to You. Remove my fear and fill me with Your love for those who don't yet know You. Use me as Your messenger of hope. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, You are the Savior of all who call on Your name.
Response: I praise You for saving me. Help me never to keep this message to myself.
Requests: Grant me divine appointments to share the Gospel. Equip me with words of life and love.
Readiness: Today, I will be bold and faithful to share Jesus with at least one person.
Devotional
God's love knows no boundaries. It doesn't discriminate based on nationality, social status, or personal background. The invitation to salvation through Jesus Christ is extended to every single person on this planet. This truth should both humble and encourage us. Think about it: the Creator of the universe, the One who formed the stars and set the planets in motion, desires a relationship with you. Not because you've earned it or deserve it, but simply because He loves you. His invitation isn't reserved for the elite, the educated, or those who have it all together. It's for everyone. In a world that constantly divides people into categories of worthy and unworthy, God's universal invitation stands in stark contrast. He sees beyond our external appearances, past mistakes, and current struggles. He sees a heart that He created and longs to redeem. Today, remember that you are included in this invitation. No matter where you've been or what you've done, God's arms are open wide to welcome you home. And as recipients of this incredible grace, we're called to extend the same invitation to others, recognizing that everyone we meet is someone God loves deeply.
Bible Verse
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16
Reflection Question
How does knowing that God's invitation is extended to everyone, regardless of background or status, change the way you view both yourself and others you might consider different from you?
Quote
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is an invitation extended to everyone. No matter who you are or where you are from. Each of us stands at a crossroads faced with personal decisions, personal choices to either accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your universal invitation of love and salvation. Help me to fully embrace this truth for myself and extend the same grace to others. Remove any barriers of pride or prejudice that prevent me from seeing others as You see them. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, I praise You for Your boundless love and grace, extended to all people in every nation.
Response: I surrender my prejudices and assumptions. Thank You for including me in Your great redemptive plan.
Requests: Open my eyes to those around me who need to hear this invitation and give me the courage to speak with love.
Readiness: Today, I will look for opportunities to share Your invitation of salvation with someone I might otherwise overlook.
Day 2: Overcoming Pride
Devotional
Pride is perhaps the most significant barrier between us and God. It whispers that we don't need help, that we can manage on our own, that surrendering to God is weakness. Yet the Gospel message directly challenges this mindset. When we encounter Jesus, we must confront the uncomfortable truth that we cannot save ourselves. This realization can be jarring, especially in a culture that celebrates self-sufficiency and personal achievement. The Gospel asks us to acknowledge our brokenness and need for a Savior. Herod Agrippa I provides a sobering example of pride's destructive power. He accepted worship meant for God alone, placing himself in God's position. His story reminds us that pride doesn't just damage our relationship with God—it fundamentally distorts our understanding of who we are. True freedom comes when we release the exhausting burden of self-sufficiency and embrace our dependence on God. When we acknowledge our limitations and need for grace, we open ourselves to experience God's transformative power in our lives. Humility before God isn't weakness—it's the beginning of strength rooted in truth.
Bible Verse
"God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." - 1 Timothy 2:3-4
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might pride be preventing you from fully surrendering to God and experiencing His grace?
Quote
I can see how the Gospel sometimes offends people. It challenges people's pride. It makes you discomfort. It disrupts your way of living.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times my pride has created distance between us. Help me recognize when I'm relying on my own strength rather than Yours. Create in me a humble heart that acknowledges my need for You in every aspect of my life. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, I honor You as the only true source of wisdom, strength, and salvation.
Response: I confess my pride and self-reliance. I lay it down before You.
Requests: Teach me to walk in humility. Show me how to depend on You more deeply each day.
Readiness: Today, I choose humility by seeking Your will over my own.
Day 3: Beyond Almost
Devotional
Herod Agrippa II stands as a powerful warning in Scripture. After hearing Paul's compelling testimony about Jesus, he famously responded, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." He recognized truth but stopped short of commitment. How many of us live in this dangerous "almost" territory? We understand the Gospel intellectually. We appreciate its beauty and wisdom. We might even attend church regularly and identify with Christian culture. But we haven't fully surrendered our hearts and lives to Jesus. "Almost" is comfortable because it requires no real change. We can maintain control while appearing spiritual. But "almost" never saves anyone. It's like standing at the edge of a pool on a hot day—you can see the refreshing water, but until you jump in, you'll never experience its relief. God doesn't call us to partial commitment or intellectual agreement. He invites us to complete surrender—to move beyond "almost" to "altogether." Today is the day to cross that line, to stop standing at the threshold and step fully into the life God has for you. Don't let "almost" be your epitaph.
Bible Verse
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." - Mark 16:15-16
Reflection Question
What is holding you back from moving beyond "almost" to full commitment to Christ in your life?
Quote
I don't want to almost catch you. I want the word of God to hold your heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don't want to be someone who almost follows You. Give me courage to move beyond hesitation and fully commit my life to You. Remove whatever barriers are keeping me from complete surrender. I choose today to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, You are worthy of full devotion and absolute surrender.
Response: I confess my hesitation and my half-heartedness. I want to be all in.
Requests: Help me take the final step of total surrender. Remove fear and grant me boldness.
Readiness: Today, I step beyond “almost” into full obedience and commitment.
Day 4: The Urgency of Now
Devotional
Time is the one resource we can never recover once it's spent. Yet when it comes to spiritual decisions, we often act as if we have an unlimited supply. We postpone, delay, and procrastinate, assuming tomorrow will always be available for the important choice of following Jesus. The reality is sobering: none of us knows how much time we have. The Bible consistently emphasizes the urgency of responding to God's invitation today, not tomorrow. Every heartbeat is a gift, not a guarantee. Common excuses abound: "I'll get right with God when I'm older," "I need to fix my life first," or "I'm not ready yet." But these rationalizations miss a crucial truth—we don't clean ourselves up to come to Jesus; we come to Jesus to be cleaned. The time between our birth and death is brief, even at its longest. In this short span, the most consequential decision we make is how we respond to Jesus Christ. Don't let another day pass without settling this most important question. The invitation is extended today, but tomorrow is promised to no one.
Bible Verse
"For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." - Romans 10:13
Reflection Question
What specific excuses have you been using to delay fully committing your life to Christ, and what would it look like to address them today rather than tomorrow?
Quote
Every one of us have two dates that's certain in life. The time we born and the time we exit this world. And in between it, you better get right with God.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for treating time as if it were unlimited. I recognize the urgency of responding to Your invitation now, not later. Remove my excuses and give me courage to act today. Thank You for Your patience with me, even when I've delayed. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: God, You are eternal and outside of time, yet You step into our moments to call us to Yourself.
Response: I confess my procrastination. I choose to respond now.
Requests: Help me live with urgency and spiritual awareness. Remove all excuses.
Readiness: Today, I will act on what You’ve shown me—no more delay.
Day 5: Sharing What Matters Most
Devotional
When we truly grasp the universal invitation of the Gospel and experience its transformative power in our lives, sharing it with others becomes not just a duty but a natural overflow of our joy. The message that changed us is too important to keep to ourselves. Every person we encounter—family members, colleagues, neighbors, even strangers—stands at their own spiritual crossroads. Some actively oppose God, others are blinded by pride, and many are stuck in the "almost" of indecision. Our testimony might be the very thing God uses to help them take the next step toward Him. Sharing our faith isn't about perfect theological arguments or pressured sales tactics. It's about authentically communicating the difference Jesus has made in our lives and extending the same invitation that was once extended to us. We plant seeds, but God causes the growth. Remember: we may be the only Bible some people ever read. Our lives speak volumes about what we truly believe. As we live out our faith with integrity and speak about it with gentleness and respect, we participate in God's redemptive work in the world around us.
Bible Verse
"For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" - Romans 10:11-13
Reflection Question
Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus, and what specific step can you take this week to share God's love with them?
Quote
This is why you and I must take every opportunity to preach the gospel. You don't know when is the last time you're gonna say something to that person. You don't know when that person is gonna have that last message of salvation preached to them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me both courage and compassion to share Your good news with others. Help me recognize opportunities to speak about You and live in a way that draws others to You. Remove my fear and fill me with Your love for those who don't yet know You. Use me as Your messenger of hope. In Jesus' name, amen.
6:4 Prayer Prompts
Reverence: Lord, You are the Savior of all who call on Your name.
Response: I praise You for saving me. Help me never to keep this message to myself.
Requests: Grant me divine appointments to share the Gospel. Equip me with words of life and love.
Readiness: Today, I will be bold and faithful to share Jesus with at least one person.
Small Group Guide
Summary
In this sermon, the pastor discusses the universal invitation of salvation through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that regardless of background, status, or nationality, everyone must make a personal decision to accept or reject Jesus as their Savior. The sermon examines the responses of three rulers from the Herodian dynasty (Herod the Great, Herod Agrippa I, and Herod Agrippa II) who all had opportunities to accept Jesus but failed to do so.
The pastor stresses the urgency of making this decision, reminding the congregation that life is temporary and unpredictable. He warns against putting faith in worldly possessions, status, or accomplishments rather than in Jesus. The message concludes with a call to action, urging listeners not to delay their decision for salvation and to share the gospel with others before their time runs out.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your universal invitation of salvation, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive Your truth. Help us to recognize the urgency of responding to Your call in our lives. Lord, we invite Your Holy Spirit to guide our conversation today, revealing what each of us needs to hear. May we be honest with ourselves about where we stand in our relationship with You. Give us the courage to make decisions that honor You and the wisdom to share Your love with others. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would you choose and what one question would you ask them?
Key Verses
John 3:16-17
Romans 10:13
Acts 10:34-35
1 Timothy 2:3-4
Mark 16:15-16
Questions
Life Application
This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear about Jesus - someone whose 'time might run out' without knowing Him. Commit to praying for them daily and look for an opportunity to share your testimony with them. Remember Paul's example of being respectful yet bold, even when facing opposition. Don't focus on getting a specific response; instead, be faithful in sharing the message and trust God with the results. Also, take time to examine your own life for areas where you might be putting your trust in worldly things rather than in God, and make a conscious decision to reorient those priorities.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your universal invitation of salvation that extends to each one of us. We acknowledge that our time on earth is limited, and we don't want to waste the opportunities You've given us. Forgive us for the times we've placed our trust in worldly things rather than in You. Help us to be bold yet loving witnesses of Your gospel, never hesitating to share Your truth with those around us. Give us discernment to recognize the urgency of both our own salvation and that of others. May we live each day with eternity in mind, making choices that honor You and draw others to Your saving grace. We pray this in the powerful name of Jesus, amen.
In this sermon, the pastor discusses the universal invitation of salvation through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that regardless of background, status, or nationality, everyone must make a personal decision to accept or reject Jesus as their Savior. The sermon examines the responses of three rulers from the Herodian dynasty (Herod the Great, Herod Agrippa I, and Herod Agrippa II) who all had opportunities to accept Jesus but failed to do so.
The pastor stresses the urgency of making this decision, reminding the congregation that life is temporary and unpredictable. He warns against putting faith in worldly possessions, status, or accomplishments rather than in Jesus. The message concludes with a call to action, urging listeners not to delay their decision for salvation and to share the gospel with others before their time runs out.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your universal invitation of salvation, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive Your truth. Help us to recognize the urgency of responding to Your call in our lives. Lord, we invite Your Holy Spirit to guide our conversation today, revealing what each of us needs to hear. May we be honest with ourselves about where we stand in our relationship with You. Give us the courage to make decisions that honor You and the wisdom to share Your love with others. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would you choose and what one question would you ask them?
Key Verses
John 3:16-17
Romans 10:13
Acts 10:34-35
1 Timothy 2:3-4
Mark 16:15-16
Questions
- The sermon emphasizes that salvation is offered to everyone regardless of background or status. How does this truth challenge or comfort you personally?
- The pastor discusses three rulers who all had opportunities to accept Jesus but failed to do so. What similarities do you see in their responses, and what can we learn from their mistakes?
- How might pride or worldly success become obstacles to accepting Christ? Have you witnessed this in your own life or in others?
- The sermon states, 'In all you're getting, get God.' What does this statement mean to you, and how can we apply it practically in our daily lives?
- The pastor emphasizes the urgency of making a decision for Christ because 'your time will run out.' How does this perspective impact how you approach sharing your faith with others?
- What are some ways we can effectively share the gospel with others even when they seem resistant or offended by the message?
- The sermon mentions that some people hide behind 'generational curses' as an excuse. How can we embrace our 'generational blessing' in Christ instead?
- How has your personal response to the gospel changed over time? Were you once like Agrippa II saying 'almost thou persuadest me,' or did you respond differently?
Life Application
This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear about Jesus - someone whose 'time might run out' without knowing Him. Commit to praying for them daily and look for an opportunity to share your testimony with them. Remember Paul's example of being respectful yet bold, even when facing opposition. Don't focus on getting a specific response; instead, be faithful in sharing the message and trust God with the results. Also, take time to examine your own life for areas where you might be putting your trust in worldly things rather than in God, and make a conscious decision to reorient those priorities.
- Key Takeaways
The Gospel is a universal invitation extended to everyone regardless of background, nationality, or status, but it requires a personal response. - We shouldn't delay our decision to follow Christ or to share the gospel with others because our time on earth is limited and unpredictable.
- Pride, worldly success, and material possessions can become obstacles that prevent people from accepting salvation.
- No matter what your family background or past might be, you have the opportunity to make your own decision to follow Christ today.
- Sharing the gospel may cause offense to some, but we should continue to speak the truth in love, using every opportunity to tell others about Jesus.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your universal invitation of salvation that extends to each one of us. We acknowledge that our time on earth is limited, and we don't want to waste the opportunities You've given us. Forgive us for the times we've placed our trust in worldly things rather than in You. Help us to be bold yet loving witnesses of Your gospel, never hesitating to share Your truth with those around us. Give us discernment to recognize the urgency of both our own salvation and that of others. May we live each day with eternity in mind, making choices that honor You and draw others to Your saving grace. We pray this in the powerful name of Jesus, amen.
Dalton Jenkins
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