Introduction

Good morning, beloved. We gather here today, hearts full of hope and minds eager for wisdom. We're here to seek and to find, to learn and to grow. We're here to lean on each other, to lean on the Word, and most importantly, to lean on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Before we begin, let's take a moment to prepare our hearts. Let's bow our heads in prayer. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for this day and for the opportunity to gather together in your name. We ask that you open our hearts and minds to your Word, that we may receive it with joy and apply it to our lives. Guide us in our understanding and help us to grow in our faith. We ask this in your precious name, amen.

In the book of Matthew, chapter 4, verse 19, Jesus says, "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people." This is the verse that will guide our conversation today.

G.K. Chesterton once said, "The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people." In this light, we see that our call to witness, to love, and to serve is not limited to those who are easy to love, but extends to all of God's children.

Today, we will consider purposeful witnessing, not just as a duty but as a joy-filled responsibility. We will look at the intention behind gifting Jesus, not just as a historical act, but as an ongoing, personal commitment. And finally, we will discuss how to apply Matthew 4:19 in our daily lives, not just as a verse to be read, but as a command to be lived.

As we open our hearts and minds to these ideas, may we find encouragement, inspiration, and direction. May we be reminded of the hope we have in Jesus, and the joy that comes from following Him. Let's look forward to a time of learning, of growth, and of fellowship, as we turn to the Word of God for guidance, for wisdom, and for truth.

Understanding Purposeful Witnessing

When we think about the call of Jesus, it's really a commission. A commission to go out into the world, to share the good news, to bring others into the fold. This is what we refer to when we talk about witnessing. But it's not just any kind of witnessing. It's purposeful witnessing. Purposeful witnessing is about being intentional. It's about making a conscious effort to share the love of Jesus with others. It's about showing others, through our words and actions, what it means to be a follower of Christ.

This kind of witnessing requires us to step out of our comfort zones. It requires us to engage with people who may not share our beliefs, who may not understand our faith. It requires us to be patient, to be understanding, to be compassionate. When Jesus called his disciples, he didn't just ask them to follow him. He commanded them to become fishers of men. He asked them to join him in his mission, to help him bring others into the kingdom of God. This is the same call that we have today.

The first aspect of purposeful witnessing is understanding our mission. Our mission is not just to believe in Jesus, but to share our belief with others. It's not just about personal salvation, but about bringing others to salvation as well. This is a mission that requires commitment, dedication, and sacrifice. But it's a mission that brings immense joy and fulfillment.

The second aspect of purposeful witnessing is understanding our audience. Our audience is not just those who are already believers, but those who are yet to believe. It's not just about preaching to the choir, but about reaching out to those who are lost, those who are searching, those who are in need. This requires us to be sensitive, to be respectful, to be loving.

The third aspect of purposeful witnessing is understanding our message. Our message is not just about the rules and regulations of religion, but about the love and grace of Jesus. It's not just about what we should do, but about what Jesus has done for us. This requires us to be knowledgeable, to be articulate, to be authentic.

The fourth aspect of purposeful witnessing is understanding our method. Our method is not just about talking, but about listening. It's not just about teaching, but about learning. It's not just about giving, but about receiving. This requires us to be flexible, to be adaptable, to be open-minded.

Purposeful witnessing is not just about what we do, but about who we are. It's not just about our actions, but about our character. It's not just about our words, but about our hearts. It's about being a true reflection of Jesus, about being his hands and feet in the world. It's about living out our faith in a way that draws others to Jesus, in a way that makes them want to know him, to love him, to follow him. This is the essence of purposeful witnessing. This is the essence of being a follower of Jesus.

The Intention Behind Gifting Jesus

As we reflect on the words of Matthew 4:19, we are drawn to the profound invitation Jesus extends to us ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO