Kings & Priests | Charles Nieman

Sunday, November 17

Scriptures

Revelation 1:5-6, Proverbs 19:21, Proverbs 29:18, Jude 1:22, Nehemiah 2:20, 2 Timothy 1:9-12, 1 Corinthians 3:9, 1 Chronicles 29:1-14.

Introduction

Welcome to our small group study on the sermon "Kings and Priests" preached by Pastor Charles Neiman. This session will delve into the profound truths found in Revelation 1:5-6, where John writes:

Revelation 1:5-6 (NIV): "and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen."

Today, we will explore several key themes:

Identity in Christ: Understanding our role as both kings and priests in God's kingdom. This identity isn't just about titles but about living a holy life and the purpose to serve God and bless others.

The Power of Vision: Pastor Neiman emphasized that vision has "pulling power." It's not just about dreaming but about having a clear, actionable vision that aligns with God's purposes.

Advancing Christ's Cause: We are called to advance the cause of Christ on earth. This involves living out our faith in practical, transformative ways.

Freedom Through Sacrifice: The sermon highlighted how Jesus' sacrificial death frees us from sin, making us part of a new spiritual reality where we serve as priests directly connected to God.

We'll discuss how these concepts apply to our daily lives:

How does understanding our priesthood affect the way we interact with God and others? (1 Peter 2:5,9)

What does it mean to reflect Christ's kingdom in our daily choices and behaviors?

See Proverbs 19:21. How can we ensure that our vision for our life aligns with and furthers God's kingdom?

Let's begin by reading the scripture together and then move into a time of discussion, reflection, and prayer, allowing these truths to challenge and encourage us in our walk with Christ.

Be the Light

God has saved us to lead a holy life in accordance with His purpose. He instructs us to spread the gospel and to live our lives in a way so the light continues to shine.

2 Timothy 1:9-12

who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. (ESV)

Paul’s letter to Timothy reminds us we are to live a holy life not because of our giftings, or talents, strengths or abilities but because of His purpose for us. We have a gracious and selfless God that never gives up on us and working behind the scenes in our lives, so don’t give up on living for Him no matter what challenges you face.

We as believers have a call to live a holy, righteous and different lifestyle from the rest of the world. The lifestyle we live shines a light - the least we can do is to keep that light bright. Never feel ashamed of the gospel and live as though you are not!

What does it mean to you to live a "holy life"? How does this align or differ from the world's standards of living?

According to 2 Timothy 1:9, why were we saved? Discuss how this differs from the notion that we are saved by our own works or merits.

Paul mentions being appointed as a "preacher and apostle and teacher" for the gospel. What does this suggest about the roles believers might be called to in their own lives?

How does Paul's readiness to suffer for his calling reflect his understanding of his purpose?

Share personal experiences or challenges where you felt tempted to hide or minimize your faith. How did you or could you address this feeling?

Visionary Guardianship

The image of the absence of a vision from God is a world/culture the is overrun with chaos and moral decay. Why, because our very nature is rooted in sin and defaults to selfish ambitions.

“Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is he who keeps the law.” Proverbs 29:18

“…without vision, the people are ungovernable.” Solomon was speaking to the critical role of the priests/prophets to provide “Chazon” or divine direction. It is the application of God’s Word into the life of His Church and His people. More than just a specific Word into our personal lives, this encompasses the greater vision of corporate ministry and the societal foundations of our communities and country. Failure to provide this vision will yield tragic results: “…the people are unrestrained,”

Paul speaks to this in Ephesians 2:3, “Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest”

Pastor Charles’ message challenged believers to be a part of the provision and participate in the vision - providing sound stewardship and governance to those we are called to serve.

Discuss how the absence of a vision from God can lead to a culture of chaos and moral decay. Can you provide contemporary examples where this might be observed?

How can we support those who are giving us clear and Godly Biblical visions?

Ephesians 2:3 Context: Paul describes a life without vision as living in the lusts of the flesh. How does having a vision from God change the way we live our lives?

For the flourishing of both countries and individuals, it's essential that people understand and adhere to God's principles. Simply possessing knowledge of God's Word is not the same as putting it into practice.

Co-Workers with Christ

If we are followers of Christ, then we have a divine partnership and thus carry a weighty responsibility in such. Pastor Nieman boldly indicated that most often this divine partnership is sorely neglected due to a lack of understanding our place and our purpose in His great cause.

1 Corinthians 3:9 (NIV) “For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”

God’s cause affects and directs our vision, our purpose, and our part or calling in His Kingdom’s work. This plays out in our lives on a daily basis.

Today, many don’t see His power because they don’t recognize the divine partnership in His objective.

Pastor Nieman stated that the vision progresses in relation to how much provision is given. We must not neglect the importance of our role as co-workers, as it will enable the follow-through toward the Lord’s mission.

When we align ourselves with His vision and our role as contributors, we will play a vital part.

Pastor Nieman mentions that the divine partnership is often neglected due to a lack of understanding. Discuss what you think it means to be in a 'divine partnership' with Christ. How does this concept influence the way you live your daily life?

Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 3:9, what does it mean to you personally to be a "co-worker in God’s service"? How can we practically align ourselves more fully with God’s vision for His Kingdom in our daily activities?

Servitude and Sovereignty: Embracing Our Role in God's Kingdom

Understanding our role as Christ’s ambassadors and stewards of His resources will enable us to provide for God's Cause and will also set us on the right purpose and mission for God's Cause or Movement.

Revelations 17:14 states: “These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful.”

Who we align with and how we walk this out in our daily lives determine what ‘team’ we end up on.

Deuteronomy 15:12-17 describes a practice where if a servant, after serving his term, chooses to stay with his master because he loves him and his household, the master would take the servant to the door or doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. This act was a permanent mark of belonging, symbolizing a lifelong commitment to serve. It illustrated a voluntary, loving servitude as an echo of the commitment and love one might show in serving others

There is a parallel to our new life in Jesus as He has set us free and when we choose to follow Him, we allow His Spirit to work through us in witnessing and providing for His Kingdom.

What differentiates your life from those who are not in His army?

How are you providing for His Kingdom?

Conclusion

As we conclude our discussion, let's reflect on the profound truths found in Nehemiah 2:20 and 1 Chronicles 29:6. Nehemiah reminds us that it is God who prospers us, prompting us not merely to exist but to rise and build, to engage actively in the work set before us by the Lord. This work isn’t just physical building but encompasses all areas where God calls us to use our resources, talents, and time for His kingdom.

In 1 Chronicles 29:6, we see the leaders of Israel giving willingly for the construction of the temple, inspired by King David's example and commitment. Their generosity was a response to their recognition of God’s blessings in their lives, showcasing a community united in a shared vision. As we move forward, let’s challenge ourselves to adopt a mindset of 'moreover giving,' where we go beyond merely meeting needs to joyfully exceeding them, driven by our delight in God and His purposes. Let's pray for a heart that delights in generosity, seeing everything we own and every resource we steward as gifts from God, intended for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

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