Matthew 25:31-46

Often Christians are known for what they are against rather than what they are for. This year we seek to be more than negative Christians or Christians in name only. As Christians, we seek to make meaningful progress in our walk as Disciples of Jesus.

Being a Christian involves much more than just being against things!

Being a Disciple means being dedicated to loving God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and loving others as ourselves.

In Mark 12:28-31, Jesus said:

"One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these."

Faith compels us, as followers of Christ, to do all the good we can to and for others.

Faith Leads to Action.

A follower of Christ is one who lives like Jesus lived - who does the things Jesus would do.

"What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:14-17).

If faith is only thoughts or beliefs that leave our lives untouched, it is dead. It is worthless.

Faith is NOT a belief; Faith is a Practice.

Faith is actively worshipping God.

Faith is being accountable, with other believers, for your own spiritual growth.

Faith is ministry with and to others - for their benefit.

Ministry is about making a difference in the lives of others.

Called to Make a Difference

The challenge we face is to bless others as God has blessed us.

NO ONE is called to be a passive Christian.

The challenge we often face is not a willingness or desire to make a difference, but instead a paralyzing fear of failure.

Focusing our efforts to do all the good we can do: Support your church!

Every time people step out in faith, they experience tremendous blessings and joy, not sorrow and regret. God wants to use you to make a difference in someone else’s life.