Hector Ortiz
Connections Pastor
Do you have an authentic faith? Nurture your personal relationship with God—it’s the foundation for passion, vision, and sharing the truth.
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Sermon Summary
Do you ever feel frustrated by life? Does it seem like it is a to-do list, driven by the calendar and the clock instead of passion, vision, genuine righteousness, or overflow of Spirit-filled fruitfulness? Everything must begin with a growing, vibrant, personal, and authentic relationship with God. This relationship is foundational; from which is born passion, vision, righteousness, and fruitfulness; all of which fuels ministry. The world is hungry to experience something real—something grounded in Truth. Powered by your relationship with God, you can show it to them.
Scripture References from the Sermon
- Isaiah 53:11
- Romans 5:17
- Proverbs 3:5-6
- John 17:3
- Philippians 3:7-8
- Romans 1:16
- John 1:12-14
- Matthew 5:13-16
- John 3:17 & 21
- 2 Corinthians 5:20
- John 15:4-5, 7-8
Discussion Questions
- What were 2-3 takeaways from this week’s sermon?
- Read Proverbs 3:5-6. What are the key principles of this passage? The word that is often translated as “acknowledge” literally means to have direct, personal experience with God. How does this understanding change your perspective on this passage?
- Pastor Hector reminded us that maintaining our relationship with God is foundational to strengthening ourselves in the Lord, managing our households, and making disciples. Is anyone willing to share some principles that have worked well for you in maintaining your relationship with God?
- Read Romans 1:16. Take turns sharing the Gospel in your own words, and how you came to know Jesus as your Savior. Take time this week to write down the gospel and your testimony and commit to share it with someone in your life.
- Knowing God results in passion for His mission. Vision (what God wants to do through His people) is often born from this fertile soil. Has God given you vision for what He wants to do in you and through you? Share.
- Read Matthew 5:14-16. Discuss. What results from our good works? Why is this important?
- Your relationship with God should be attractive to others. Do you think people want what you have?
- We are well-steeped in a performance-based culture—you get what you earn. This feels right and just but does not translate well to our faith-walk. How does this aspect of our culture negatively affect our understanding of Christianity and the way we live it out? How can we battle against these tendencies?
- What will you do differently, or how will you be different as a result of this week’s message?