High Stakes
Evangelism and Generosity | High Stakes | Week 4
August 20, 2023 | By Jim Burgen
When most people think “spiritual warfare,” they jump to the sexy Hollywood images like Ghost Busters. Normally, we imagine holding up crosses and shouting at demons and exorcisms. While most of us will never be called upon to do that, every one of us has been commanded to enlist in the spiritual warfare of the Great Commission. In today's message, Jim will challenge us to get serious about the fight we're in by taking steps toward evangelism and generosity.
Setlist
Battle Belongs Available on “Hymn Of Heaven” from Phil Wickham
Who You Say I Am Available on “There is More” from Hillsong Church
Homecoming Available on "Homecoming (Live)" from Bethel Music
The Jesus Way Available from Phil Wickham
Group Questions
Evangelism and Generosity as Spiritual Warfare
Jim Burgen
Aug 20th, 2023
// Bible References
Eph: 6:12; Matthew 6:19-21,24; 28:18-20; 1 Cor 15:22-26
// Community Question
What do you think of when you hear the word Evangelism? What about Generosity?
// Discussion Questions
- In the sermon Jim emphasized that two pivotal weapons in spiritual warfare are evangelism and generosity. Evangelism, because it enables every believer to spread the gospel. Generosity, because it allows believers to use what they have been given for the expansion of God's kingdom. Why are evangelism and generosity necessary elements in a believer's life?
- Jim highlights the importance of showing the reality of a true Christian life through our actions, so others desire the same. Why is it important to have our actions align with our beliefs as followers of Jesus, and how can this bring others to desire a relationship with Him?
- Read Matthew 6:19-21. In this section Jesus switches our focus from accumulating earthly treasures and encourages us to invest in heavenly treasures. What does it mean to invest in heavenly treasures, and how does this impact our financial priorities? Can you identify any areas in your personal finances where you could make a change to better align with investing in heavenly treasures?
- Jim discusses the importance of generosity as a way to battle against the idolatry of money and the influence of Mammon, a pagan god associated with wealth. How does generous giving function as a spiritual weapon against greed and self-centeredness? In what ways can you commit to being more generous with your finances, and how might this impact your spiritual growth?
- Jim emphasized spiritual growth requires active involvement and urged anyone who consider Flatirons home to fully engage in service, giving, or evangelism. Why is active involvement in the body of Christ essential for spiritual growth? What areas of your spiritual life do you think could improve if you actively involved yourself in service that made a positive impact for the Kingdom of God?
// Challenge: What are some ways you can live out your faith more authentically and openly to positively impact those around you? Who is someone you feel God is asking you to commit to praying for and presenting the gospel to in the next 12 months?