A Different Path

Reference

Hebrews 12:2; Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 14:35; 2 Corinthians 5:13-20

THE FOLLOWING SERMON BEGINS AT PASTOR WILBUR’S RETIREMENT IN THE FUTURE (YEAR 2030)

Let’s Continue to Run the Race

- Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Focus on the Koinonia Vision

- Our vision is to build a truth-based faith community in the Greater Vancouver Area, with a focus to train disciples to become witnesses of Jesus Christ – Salt & Light – for the expansion of God’s Kingdom.

The Story of SS United States (1960’s)

- The fastest and most reliable troop carrier in the world has become a luxury liner that takes presidents, heads of state, and celebrities across the Atlantic leisurely.

Jesus' Mandate for the Church

- You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Let your light shine before others,
so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:15-16)

Jesus’ Warning to the Church

- You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? (Matthew 5:13)
- It is of no use either for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away. (Luke 14:35)

A Different Identity - Ambassador for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:13-20)

- All this is from God, who … gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
- Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Live Different

- Like firefighters stationed at a fire hall, the church is training Christians to save lives.
- Like soldiers on board a troop carrier, we are preparing to fight the battle rather than waiting to be served.
- Like ambassadors, we are representing Christ the King in a foreign land. We should present the terms of peace to a foreign nation in the hope of bringing them into God’s kingdom.