Sermon Central
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The Ministry Of Presence
Contributed by Dr. Jonathan Vorce on May 24, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: In this sermon Dr. Vorce examines the importance of the Ministry of Presence flowing from the believer's life. Using the Good Samaritan, the Story of Ruth, and Paul's prison experience as examples, he explains the power of both extending and receiving "presence" as a ministry.
Scripture Reading
• Matthew 18:20 (NIV): "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
• John 1:14 (NIV): "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
Introduction
• Briefly introduce the concept of "The Ministry of Presence."
• Explain its importance in the context of faith and community.
• Just because we are “faith people” doesn’t mean we always get what we want, particularly in times of grief and loss.
o The Sovereignty of God comes into play here.
o God will never go against His Word when it comes to His sovereignty.
I. Biblical Examples of Presence
A. Jesus' Incarnation (John 1:14)
1. Discuss how Jesus’ coming to earth exemplifies God’s desire to be present with humanity.
B. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
1. Reflect on the Samaritan’s willingness to be present and provide care.
C. Job's Friends (Job 2:11-13)
1. Analyze the initial silent presence of Job's friends during his suffering.
II. The Impact of Presence in Personal Relationships
A. Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17)
1. Explore Ruth’s commitment to stay with Naomi as an act of loving presence.
B. Paul's Letters (2 Timothy 4:9-13)
1. Discuss Paul’s request for companionship during his imprisonment, emphasizing the need for presence in times of trial.
2. Suffering in silence is always a bad idea, usually rooted in personal pride.
III. Practical Applications for Modern Believers
A. Actively Listen
James 1:19-20 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
1. Encourage the congregation to practice active listening as a form of presence.
B. Be Present in Community
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
1. Urge believers to bear one another’s burdens through physical and emotional presence.
C. Offer Support in Silence
Romans 12:15-16 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. 16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
1. Emphasize the power of silent support during others' moments of distress or grief.
Conclusion
• Summarize the key points discussed.
• Reiterate the significance of embodying the Ministry of Presence in daily life.
• Challenge the congregation to commit to practicing the Ministry of Presence in the coming week.
