A Long Obedience In The Same Direction - Renaud von Wielligh | Hillsong Africa | 23 February 2025

Summary

This sermon highlights the theme of walking by faith, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God despite challenges. It explains that Jesus, as the author and perfecter of our faith, modeled a life of unwavering obedience, even to the cross. The message calls believers to trust in God's grace, recognizing that salvation is not earned but given through Jesus' sacrifice. It encourages those who have strayed from God to return, and offers support through a 21-day Good News Guide to help new believers begin their journey of faith.

Takeaways

• 😀 Faith is a long journey of obedience in the same direction, not a one-time decision.
• 😀 Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith, empowering us to walk by faith.
• 😀 We are called to walk by faith, not by our own strength, but by trusting in Jesus.
• 😀 Jesus' life, from birth to crucifixion, demonstrates the ultimate example of long obedience.
• 😀 Jesus' journey was motivated by His love for us and the joy of our reconciliation with God.
• 😀 Walking by faith leads to joy, even when we don't feel it or fully understand it.
• 😀 Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is the foundation of our faith journey and empowers us to turn towards God.
• 😀 The invitation to follow Jesus is not about earning or deserving His love but about accepting His grace.
• 😀 When we choose to walk towards Jesus, we are empowered by His strength, not our own.
• 😀 The church community is here to support those who make the decision to follow Jesus, offering guidance and prayer.

Q & A

What is meant by 'long obedience in the same direction'?

The phrase refers to a sustained commitment to following God's will, staying faithful in the journey of life regardless of challenges, and not losing focus on the end goal of growing in relationship with God.

How does the speaker describe Jesus' role in our faith journey?

The speaker highlights that Jesus is the 'author and perfecter' of our faith, meaning He initiates and empowers the journey of faith, guiding us to spiritual maturity and helping us through challenges.

What is the significance of Jesus' life in relation to faith?

Jesus’ life serves as a perfect example of walking in 'long obedience in the same direction.' His entire life, especially His 33 years leading to the cross, demonstrated unwavering commitment to God's purpose, showing love and dedication to humanity.

Why did Jesus walk this 'long obedience' according to the speaker?

Jesus walked this long path of obedience for 'the joy set before Him,' which is the reconciliation of humanity with God, empowering individuals to walk by faith and step into the fullness of their purpose.

How does the speaker encourage those who may feel unworthy or far from God?

The speaker encourages individuals to understand that Jesus' sacrifice was made while we were still sinners, not after we were 'perfect.' He invites everyone to respond by faith, no matter where they are in their spiritual journey.

What does the speaker suggest people do if they want to follow Jesus?

The speaker urges individuals to make a conscious decision to turn towards Jesus, acknowledging His sacrifice, and to begin a journey of faith by following Him through a prayer of commitment.

What is the meaning of the prayer at the end of the message?

The prayer is a declaration of turning away from living life on one's own terms and choosing to follow Jesus, acknowledging His sacrifice, and inviting Him to lead one's life in a relationship with God.

What is the significance of the '21-day Good News Guide' mentioned?

The 21-day Good News Guide is a resource offered to those who have made a decision to follow Jesus, providing structured steps and support for the first 21 days of their new faith journey.

Why does the speaker emphasize that we do not decide what is true or not about our faith?

The speaker stresses that truth is defined by God, not by personal feelings or experiences. The life and actions of Jesus serve as the ultimate evidence of God's truth, regardless of individual circumstances.

What is the ultimate hope that the speaker mentions for believers?

The ultimate hope is the fulfillment of God's promise of a new Heaven and a new Earth, where there will be no more suffering or tears, and where believers will live in complete unity with God forever.