How Do We Extend the Table?
The love of the Father is so profound that He sent His Son to bear the weight of our sin, longing to bring His children back into relationship with Him. This love is not just something to be celebrated in our gatherings, but something that compels us to action. As we wrapped up our latest series, “Compelled: Extending the Table,” Pastor Jake challenged us to live on mission everyday and allow God to use us in the lives of those around us.
Just as a football team huddles to receive the play but must eventually break and execute it, we as followers of Jesus are called to break from our comfortable gatherings and step into the world with the mission He has given us. Too often, we remain in the huddle, enjoying the presence of God and the fellowship of believers, but hesitating to go and share the good news with those who need it most. Many of us struggle to step out because of fear, a sense of inadequacy, or simply not knowing how to begin. Yet, God’s call is clear: we are to go into the world and invite others to His table.
Key Takeaways
– The Father’s Love Compels Us to Action
God’s love is not passive; it is a pursuing, sacrificial love that seeks to restore relationship with His children. This love is meant to move us beyond comfort and into mission, echoing the heart of the Father who longs for all to come to His table. When we truly grasp the depth of His love, it becomes impossible to remain unmoved or inactive.
– Breaking the Huddle: Moving from Gathering to Going
It is easy to find comfort and strength in Christian community, but the true test of our faith is whether we are willing to “break the huddle” and step into the world with the gospel. The gathering is essential for equipping and encouragement, but it is not the end goal. We are called to take what we receive and put it into practice, running the play that Jesus has given us.
– Building Trust in a Skeptical World
In a culture where many are wary of Christians, trust must be earned through humility, consistency, and genuine care. Jesus modeled this by crossing social and cultural barriers, engaging people with respect and vulnerability. Our first step in someone’s spiritual journey is often simply to be a trustworthy friend, showing up in their lives without an agenda and building bridges through shared interests and honest confession.
– Curiosity and Openness: The Power of Questions
Spiritual curiosity rarely arises on its own; it is often sparked by thoughtful, non-threatening questions that invite deeper reflection. Jesus was a master at asking questions that drew people out and awakened spiritual hunger. As we journey with others, we can gently prompt them to consider their own stories, experiences, and longings, creating space for God to stir their hearts toward openness.
– Journeying with Others Through the Thresholds
Evangelism is not about quick conversions but about faithfully walking with people through each stage of their spiritual journey. This means praying with them, helping them wrestle with their questions, and being present as they seek. When the time is right, we invite them to follow Jesus, trusting that the Holy Spirit is the one who brings transformation. Our role is to take the next step in love and obedience, leaving the results to God.
Reflection Questions
- The Father’s love is described as sacrificial and pursuing. When you think about God’s love for you, does it move you to action, or do you find yourself staying in the “huddle”? What holds you back from stepping out?
- Jake challenged us to identify someone in our lives who may be on a spiritual journey. Who is one person God is putting on your heart right now, and what threshold do you think they are in?
- Building trust often means showing up in someone’s life without an agenda. What is one practical way you can build trust with a friend, neighbor, or coworker this week?
- Think about a time when you were curious about faith or spiritual things. What helped you move from curiosity to openness? How can you create that kind of space for someone else?
- Jake encouraged us to ask good questions to spark curiosity. What is one non-threatening, thoughtful question you could ask someone in your life to open up a spiritual conversation?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from Oct 19
- “This Is Our God”
- “Homecoming”
- “Reckless Love”
- “The Sending”
Listen to the songs we play on Sundays by clicking the image below to access our Spotify playlist!
