Make the Shift: Embracing a New Move of God
In today's rapidly changing world, the call to "Make the Shift" is more crucial than ever. This message invites us to embrace the dynamic movement of God that is currently unfolding in our communities and beyond. This shift is not merely an increase in speed but a profound transition into a higher gear of spiritual engagement and participation.
A New Awakening
There is a divine awakening occurring, a powerful move of God sweeping across the earth, and it is taking root right here in our community. This shift presents us with an opportunity to transition from being mere spectators to active participants in God's unfolding plan. Pastor Michael Mehring emphasizes the urgency of this moment by referencing John 4:35-38. In this passage, Jesus tells His disciples, "Look at all the people coming. Now is harvest time." This scripture underscores the immediacy of the spiritual harvest around us and calls us to action.
Shifting Gears
The concept of making a shift is about moving from medium to high gear in our spiritual journey. Pastor Michael underscores the importance of this transition by highlighting Philippians 3:12-14: "Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching toward those things which are ahead." This scripture encourages us to let go of past limitations and press forward into the new dimensions God has for us. It is a call to pursue what lies ahead with determination and faith.
Embracing the Supernatural
A significant theme in this message is the merging of the natural and supernatural realms. The prophetic word shared by Dutch Sheets speaks of "a stronger merging in Christ's kingdom" that will result in "new levels and new manifestations" of God's power. This is echoed in Colossians 2:12, which reminds us that "Christ's Resurrection is your resurrection too." As believers, we are called to experience the fullness of this supernatural life. We are invited to feast on the treasures of the heavenly realm and align our thoughts with heavenly realities.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is at the heart of this shift, bringing about change and renewal. Acts 1:8 promises, "You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you." This power is essential for participating in the shift God is orchestrating. It requires a deeper commitment and alignment with God's purpose, as well as a willingness to embrace change as a catalyst for growth. The Holy Spirit empowers us to make the necessary shifts in our lives, enabling us to experience God's presence and power in new and profound ways.
A Call to Action
The message concludes with a call to embrace this shift wholeheartedly. It serves as a reminder that this is not an automatic process but requires our active participation and conscious choices. We must be intentional about aligning our thoughts, actions, and words with God's movement, as highlighted in Hebrews 12:1-2: "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." This call to action challenges us to discard the weights and sins that hinder us and to run the race with perseverance.
The Transformative Power of Commitment
As we commit to this shift, we are invited to embrace the transformative power of God's word and will in our lives. 2 Corinthians 3:18 speaks of our transformation: "We all, with unveiled faces, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory." This transformation is a journey from one level of glory to another, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is a process of becoming more like Christ, reflecting His image in our lives.
Conclusion
This is a pivotal moment for us to "Make the Shift" and step into the new levels God is calling us to. By embracing this move, we position ourselves to experience unprecedented breakthroughs and become active participants in the great harvest. As we align ourselves with God's purpose, we can expect to see His glory manifest in ways we've never imagined, transforming our lives and communities. Let us commit to this shift, trusting that God is with us every step of the way, and witness the unfolding of His extraordinary plan. Together, we can embrace the new move of God and make a lasting impact on the world around us.
Study Guide: Make the Shift
Reading
John 4:35-38: Reflect on Jesus’ call to recognize the urgency of the harvest and the readiness of the fields.
Philippians 3:12-14: Consider Paul’s exhortation to press on toward the goal, leaving behind past failures and focusing on future opportunities.
Colossians 2:12: Understand the significance of being raised with Christ and living a life reflective of this new reality.
Hebrews 12:1-2: Explore the metaphor of running a race, emphasizing perseverance and focus on Jesus.
2 Corinthians 3:18: Delve into the transformative process of becoming more like Christ, moving from glory to glory.
Acts 1:8: Examine the promise of receiving power from the Holy Spirit to be witnesses in the world.
Warm Up
Think about a moment in your life when you felt a shift in your personal or spiritual journey. What prompted this change, and what was the outcome?
Discuss your current understanding of what it means to "shift into a higher gear" in your spiritual life. How do you perceive this affecting your relationship with God?
Share a recent experience where you felt God prompting you to step out in faith or embrace a new opportunity. How did you respond?
Scripture Exploration
John 4:35-38: What imagery does Jesus use to describe the harvest? How can this be applied to the current spiritual climate in your community?
Philippians 3:12-14: How does Paul’s determination to press on inspire you to pursue your spiritual goals? What are some practical ways you can "forget what is behind"?
Hebrews 12:1-2: Identify the "weights" and "sins" in your life that might be hindering your spiritual progress. How can you lay them aside to run your race more effectively?
2 Corinthians 3:18: What does it mean to be transformed "from glory to glory"? How does the Holy Spirit facilitate this transformation in your life?
Personal Reflection
Reflect on the concept of a "spiritual harvest" as mentioned in John 4:35-38. How does this align with your understanding of evangelism and discipleship?
In Philippians 3:12-14, Paul speaks of a "prize" that he is pursuing. What might this prize represent for you, and how does it motivate your spiritual journey?
Consider the role of community and accountability as described in Hebrews 12:1-2. How can being part of a "cloud of witnesses" encourage you to persevere?
Explore the idea of being "resurrected with Christ" from Colossians 2:12. How does this new identity empower you to live differently?
Personal Application
Identify a specific area in your life where you sense God calling you to shift into a higher gear. What practical steps can you take to align with this calling?
How can you actively participate in the "harvest" within your church or community? Consider ways you might contribute to outreach, service, or discipleship efforts.
Reflect on the "weights" you identified earlier from Hebrews 12:1-2. What strategies can you implement to overcome these obstacles and maintain focus on Jesus?
Commit to one action this week that reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in your life. How will you ensure accountability and measure your progress?
Consider how you can share the message of this sermon with others. What impact could this have on your community, and how can you facilitate discussions about embracing spiritual shifts?
Group Discussion
In a group setting, discuss the sermon's theme of shifting into a higher gear. How can you support each other in recognizing and responding to God’s call to action?
Share personal testimonies of times when you experienced a spiritual shift. How did these experiences shape your faith, and what encouragement can you offer to others?
By engaging with these questions and reflections, aim to deepen your understanding of the sermon's themes and apply them to your life, fostering both personal growth and community transformation.
Discussion Questions for Small Groups
Icebreaker: Share a recent "shift" or change in your life that had a significant impact on you, whether it was in your personal, professional, or spiritual life. How did you navigate through this change, and what did you learn from it?
Understanding the Shift: Pastor Michael Mehring discussed a "shift" happening at Lighthouse Church, moving us into a higher gear of spiritual engagement. What do you think this shift entails for our church community, and how can we collectively embrace this change to fulfill our mission?
Biblical Reflection: In John 4:35-38, Jesus speaks of the fields being ripe for harvest. Reflect on this passage and discuss how it relates to our current opportunities for ministry and outreach in Walworth County. What practical steps can we take to engage more actively in this "harvest"?
From Spectators to Participants: The sermon challenged us to move from being spectators to active participants in God's work. What specific actions or changes in mindset can you implement to become more involved in the spiritual and communal life of our church? Share any personal experiences where you transitioned from observing to actively participating.
Shifting into Higher Gear: Pastor Michael encouraged us to "shift into a higher gear" in our spiritual journey. What does this mean for you personally? Identify areas in your spiritual life where you feel called to grow or change, and discuss how you can pursue these changes with the support of your small group.
Letting Go and Moving Forward: Philippians 3:12-14 urges us to forget what lies behind and press forward. How can this scripture guide you in overcoming past challenges or regrets? Share with the group a personal experience where focusing on the future helped you move past a difficult situation.
Faith and the Holy Spirit: The sermon emphasized the need for faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit to embrace change and growth. Discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in your life and how you can cultivate a deeper reliance on His guidance. How can we, as a group, support and encourage one another in this spiritual journey?
New Pentecost Power and Community Impact: Pastor Michael spoke of a "new Pentecost power" and the potential impact of our church on the wider community. How does this vision inspire you, and what steps can we take as a church to reflect this power and authority in our community outreach efforts? Consider specific initiatives or projects that could embody this vision.
Personal and Collective Call to Action: Reflect on the sermon's call to action for both individuals and the church community. What are some practical ways you can respond to this call in the coming week? Share ideas for personal spiritual disciplines, acts of service, or ways to encourage and uplift one another in faith.
