Next Chapter: Living Your Purpose

Sermon Quick Summary
            Change from summer to autumn in created nature and change in our lives brings the next chapter in God’s unfolding story. In the season for the next chapter of changes, we turn the page and begin the next chapter. The Apostle Paul explains in Ephesians 2:8-10 that our next chapter of life begins with the free gift of salvation by grace through faith. The free gift through faith cannot be earned, and sets up security in relationship with God as we live into our purpose. You are a masterpiece created by God for your purpose that is unique to you (as referenced by the song “Chosen” and a spiritual exercise of doodling). Lyrics of the song, “Chosen,” by Madison Ryann Ward remind that we are a masterpiece for a purpose. A spiritual exercise of doodling also reminds us that we are a masterpiece for a purpose. As you discover your next chapter to find or reexamine your unique purpose to live as God’s masterpiece there are four truths: First, root yourself in your identity in Christ. Second, seek God’s guidance through prayer and scripture. Third, follow your God-given gifts and passions. Fourth, trust God in every season. Every day is an opportunity to live into our purpose.

Change from summer to autumn in created nature and change in our lives brings the next chapter in God’s unfolding story
            Summer is officially behind us, and the cooler crisp days of fall are upon us. Transition and change are in the air, and a new chapter in Mother Nature’s unfolding story has begun.
            Many of us also feel change with a shift in our personal lives. Pastor Tammy shared: Being away for 3 months has given me fresh eyes to examine, (1) what am I really doing and why am I doing it, (2) to ponder if I am living the life I want to live and meant to live, (3) to consider if my day-to-day realities are in line with my professed priorities and values, and (4) to reflect on who I am becoming and whether I’m living into my purpose. I’ve returned from sabbatical inspired to focus, deepen, and work on some areas that have gotten lost in life and to reset for the next chapter of my story.
            Likewise, as a church, God is guiding us to examine, review, and reset with refreshed vitality and vision. This means making adjustments, revisiting priorities, and resetting direction with clarity and discernment as we intentionally engage the next chapter of our story individually and as a church. Pastor Tammy spent the summer seeking God in her story and seeing God’s authorship everywhere. Our church spent the summer looking at the Divine Story of Jesus and You.

In the season for the next chapter of changes, we turn the page and begin the next chapter
            As the seasons change in Mother Nature, so do our lives and the church change. The question is: What is next? The answer is: We turn the page and begin the next chapter.
            Many of you are in a season of transition. The winds of change are blowing. Maybe your employment reality has changed or your life circumstances have changed. Your vision for what you thought was going to be has changed. Maybe you see a change is on the horizon, and you are preparing for that change. Or perhaps you just feel yourself in between changes. Maybe your life is good over all, but in the quietness of your heart and mind, there are things you’d like to be different in your life. You may not even be able to articulate the difference you desire, but you sense and desire that difference (whatever it may be).
            You’ve heard the saying: Today is the first day of the rest of your life. In other words, every day is an opportunity to begin a new chapter. Some days seem to cry out to us to turn the page; it is time for the next chapter. For followers of Jesus, every next chapter should begin with Jesus and embrace God’s purpose for our lives.

The Apostle Paul explains in Ephesians 2:8-10 that our next chapter in life begins with salvation by grace through faith
“⁸ God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. ⁹ Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. ¹⁰For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (NLT). It’s important to understand the context of this passage. It was written over 2000 years ago by the Apostle Paul in a letter to the followers of Jesus living in Ephesus. Ephesus was a major urban center in the Roman Empire, known for its bustling trade, its famous temple to the goddess Artemis, and its diverse population. The Ephesian church at that time consisted primarily of Gentile converts, meaning, they weren’t Jewish, so they did not grow up with a .Jewish understanding of God and his promises to Israel. Many of these Gentiles would have grown up worshipping the Greek gods and goddesses. Paul is teaching Jews and Gentiles alike what it means to live as followers of Jesus and what it means to live in unity as brothers and sisters in Christ.
            For us today, teaching on salvation through grace is just as critical because God’s grace is the foundation for everything else. This was as challenging for the original hearers as it can be for us today. Even when we mentally understand grace (unmerited or undeserved favor is how we typically define it), it can still be hard to wrap our minds around this gift. The false narratives of this world tell us we have to earn whatever we receive. We’re supposed to work hard and get rewarded for our efforts in saying that nothing is free. We don’t like being indebted to anyone. The idea of earning the favor of God is so strong in our psyche, both in biblical days and now. Salvation is a free gift from God. It can feel wrong; like it is too good to be true. However, salvation is the truth of a loving God!
            In Ephesians 2:1-7, Paul explains that, because of sin, our spirits are dead to God which means being separated from a relationship between ourselves and God. Jesus paid the debt of humanity’s rebellion through his own life sacrifice of crucifixion and resurrection from the dead. That debt should have been ours to pay. As a result of what Jesus did, our spirits can be born again, with an enlivened spirit now able to connect with God. That’s why Jesus is called the Savior, and the salvation Jesus extends to each of us is a free gift.

The free gift through faith cannot be earned, and sets up security in relationship with God as we live into our purpose  
            Paul states that salvation is not a reward for good things we’ve done. In other words, there’s nothing we did, nor is there anything we can do to earn God’s favor. Our salvation and reunion with God is not earned and not based on merit, or our goodness, or our worthiness. It is all God’s grace.
            Even the ability to have faith and believe is because of God’s grace which enables us to have faith and believe. We cannot take any credit, whatsoever. Boasting about our spiritual prowess is not a factor in salvation because we are equally in need of God’s grace. We are equally loved, equally washed cleaned by a loving God, and equally saved when we believe and accept Jesus as Savior. God offers salvation by grace and belief in God alone. This would have been Good News to the Ephesian believers, and it should be good news to us too because it frees us from the pressure to "earn" our place with God. Simply, we cannot earn our relationship with God.
            We are saved because of God’s love and grace, and this grace sets the stage for everything else in our lives including living into our purpose. This speaks to our security in our relationship with God. We don’t ever have to worry about falling out of favor with God. God’s love is forever. Our status as God’s sons and daughters is secure. God won’t disown us. Our part is to accept the free gift God offers. When we accept the free gift, we become children of God, as declared in John 1:12-13: “Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, not of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”  We become children of God just as we are broken and all. We don’t have to clean ourselves up. God has already done the work through the death and resurrection of Jesus. God will continue to clean us up, from the inside out, as part of God’s transforming work in our lives.
            Since, we have been saved by grace, God extends to us a new life, a born-again life where we are reunited with God spirit to spirit. We can live into the magnificent story God has planned for our lives as God’s masterpiece.

You are a masterpiece created by God for your purpose that is unique to you (as referenced by the song, “Chosen” and a spiritual exercise of doodling)
            We were not only saved from something, but we were saved FOR something. We have a purpose, and you are a masterpiece! “ For we are God’s masterpiece, He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago”(Ephesians 2:10).
            We serve a wonderful God who is a Creator. From God’s divine imagination and mind, God loves creating. All you have to do is look around this world at the beauty of nature, the diversity of life forms, even within species the individual uniqueness of everything, even things as small as snowflakes, and the microscopic. Our God delights in creating for the joy of creating and declares it good.
            Everything God creates has a purpose. Even if that purpose is solely to bring beauty and joy to the eyes, all of God’s creation has a distinct and unique purpose. The Bible repeatedly tells us we are part of God’s creative work (For example, Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 2:10). Paul explains in Ephesians 2:10 because we have been saved, we have been re-created, reborn, and reset as God’s masterpiece  to live into the good things God planned in advance for us to do as our purpose.
            Have you ever thought of yourself as a masterpiece? Even though you may love the thought as a masterpiece, you may have a hard time thinking of yourself in that way! A masterpiece is the highest artistic excellence, captivating, and awe-inspiring. Other translations say we are God’s workmanship suggesting the intentionality, designed with care, and the craftsmanship of the Creator. Some translations say we are God’s handiwork suggesting the tender caring work of God’s hands. Another translation says we are God’s works of art, suggesting beauty, creativity, and joy. The original Greek word is just as compelling in talking about you. In the Greek manuscript, the word is “poiema,” which is where we get our word for poem. Are you sensing the magnificence God created you to be as God’s masterpiece, tender care of God, creative work of art, and God’s poem.
            When we think of our purpose, we have to remember we are one of a kind and an original with God’s own signature and God’s image on our lives. There is no one exactly like you in the entire world. There never has been and there never will be. Isn’t that amazing when you think about it?
            We consider your purpose as a follower of Jesus and the good things God planned for you long ago.
Your purpose includes general good works like living out your love for God and neighbor, following God’s ways as Kingdom sons and daughters, caring for our world, seeking justice, demonstrating God’s love, and demonstrating everything Jesus taught. No one will do any of these things exactly like you.
            Our purpose includes our unique way of being in the world, our mission, and our assignments as God unfolds them for us. The truth is that you are not like anyone else. We are all chosen to be who God has called us to be as God’s masterpiece.
Lyrics of the song, “Chosen,” by Madison Ryann Ward remind that we are a masterpiece for a purpose
            She writes words of encouragement and a reminder that speaks to the truth that we are indeed a masterpiece chosen by God for a purpose to live into the good works God planned in advance for us to do:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X50F0YABbR8&ab_channel=MadisonRyannWard-Topic
“You are chosen for beautiful things. Even broken I hear the stars singing your praise, calling you out, saying your name. No, it’s no doubt, God made no mistake.”
“You are chosen for beautiful things. Don’t get caught up in comparison. Keep it original like you been. This is the time to be all you can. Give yourself another hand.”
“Take all the pressure off your head. Every blessing is heaven sent. You are chosen for beautiful things, for beautiful things, beautiful, beautiful things.”
A spiritual exercise of a doddle activity also reminds us that we are a masterpiece for a purpose
            There is a spiritual exercise involving a doddle activity. This is not about artistic ability. It is a spiritual exercise to more deeply connect with God as we reflect on God’s Word. Don’t worry about what it looks like.  The whole point of the exercise is to doodle freely, with no judgement, but with an openness to receive and listen to whatever stirs in your spirit. For this exercise on one side of your card or paper draw a simple bamboo tree. On the other side of the card or paper draw a simple fruit tree. If time permits, you can fill in the landscape. God is present, smiling, and wants you to know you are a masterpiece with a purpose, and you were chosen for beautiful things. The big idea from this doodle is that we are unique in our purpose. A bamboo tree cannot fulfill the purpose of a fruit tree or vice versa. Each of the trees is unique and share what only it can share. God designed the trees that way.  Both trees are needed and essential to this world to fulfill their purpose for the glory of God. To help you remember this exercise, please write on your card, “I am a Masterpiece with a Purpose. Ephesians 2:10.”
As you discover your next chapter to find or reexamine your unique purpose to live as God’s masterpiece there are four truths:
First, root yourself in your identity in Christ
            Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are created in Christ Jesus. Our purpose begins with knowing who we are in Jesus as new creations that were born again by the free gift of salvation. Contrary to how the fallen world system would have us think, you are not defined by your past mistakes, by your successes or failures, or by the expectations of others. You are only defined by your relationship with Jesus. You are His beloved and His masterpiece. You are loved beyond measure for which God made you to be. When you live from this place of security, it frees you from the need to strive for approval or validation. Instead, you can rest in the truth that God has already given you a purpose, and God will guide you into it as you walk and talk with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit daily.
Second, seek God’s Guidance through prayer and scripture
            Finding your purpose requires staying connected to God. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Our Purpose is not something we have to figure out on our own. As we seek God through prayer and study God’s Word, the divine God, (God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit) reveals the steps to take. Through prayer, we invite God to guide us and to open our eyes to the opportunities and good works God has set before us. Scripture gives us a framework for understanding God’s heart and what it means and looks like to love God and love others. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we begin to see how our lives fit into God’s grand story.
Third, follow your God-given gifts and passions
            One of the most tangible ways God reveals our purpose is through the gifts and passions He has placed in us. Each of us has unique talents, skills, and interests that reflect the creative nature of our Creator. These gifts are tools for fulfilling God’s purpose.
            What excites you? What are you passionate about? Often, the things that stir your heart are clues to the good works God has prepared for you. Whether it’s teaching, creating, serving, or leading, God can use your gifts to build God’s kingdom and bless others. If don’t know what your gifts are, or you want to revisit them, you can access our church’s spiritual gift test via the www.sobcc website. Next Sunday, we will dig more into this, so you are encouraged to spend time reflecting on these two questions: What excites you? What are you passionate about?
Fourth, trust God in every season
            Just as the seasons change, so do the seasons of our lives. There will be times of clarity and times of uncertainty. There will be moments when your purpose feels clear, and times when you are simply waiting and trusting. In these moments, remember that God is still writing your story. God’s timing is perfect, and God’s plan for your life is unfolding even when you cannot see it. Trust that God is shaping you through every season and preparing you for the good works God has chosen for you. Purpose is not always found in the grand moments but often in the small, faithful steps of everyday life.

Every day is an opportunity to live into our purpose
            God has created you as God’s masterpiece, and no one can do them like you. What may God be stirring in your spirit this morning? What may be one step, big or small, toward your purpose? Perhaps there is something you’ve been putting off, and now is the time to begin. Perhaps you’re sensing the need to shift your priorities. Maybe it’s a different way of being with your family or friends. Perhaps you’re feeling a pull toward a different vocation, or a different volunteer service. 
            Maybe there’s a dream you’ve been holding for a long time; it is a “a one day, I really would like to …” vision.  Perhaps God is saying today is the day to take one step, start your next chapter, and live into your purpose.
            As we prepare to close, let us do three things. First, close yourself in with the Lord and listen. Listen to your heart; listen to what comes to your thoughts; listen for what God may be inviting you to do as a first step for your next chapter. Second, write down whatever comes to your mind on the back of your card or paper. Many times God speaks to us during our worship service, and we forget by the time we get to the parking lot. If something comes to you, write it down and hold it in prayer this week. Third, as you are listening to God, also listen to the words of this song, ‘Have Thine Own Way,” and allow God to speak to your spirit as we invite God to have God’s way in our lives.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKgRQf5VJA&list=RDNKgRQf5VJA&start_radio=1&ab_channel=ChristianJazzArtistsNetwork-Topic
            Before you go into your time of prayer, let us review our scripture text in the First Nations Bible. This translation offers insight that God is the Potter and you are God’s masterpiece.
“It is by trusting in the gift of his great kindness that we have been made whole. It is not because of any good thing we have done, but only by accepting a gift that we could never earn. 9 In this way, no one can brag or boast about themselves, but only humbly give thanks. 10 We are like clay in his hands, molded from the Chosen One, made to be like him, and walking the ancient pathways he originally created us for (Ephesians 2:8-10 FNVT)        
            Take the next few moments now to listen for how God may be inviting you to live into your purpose.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS INCLUDING FAMILY GROUPS
Sermon Quick Summary
-For further explanation of any statement in the Quick Review Summary, review the discussion and questions under the heading for that statement.
Change from summer to autumn in created nature and change in our lives brings the next chapter in God’s unfolding story 
-In what ways does change in the season from summer to autumn bring about physical changes in created nature? -Do these physical changes bring a new purpose like providing fruit and shade during summer changing to a different purpose during the autumn season?
-In your life, when there are changes to a new chapter, how does this impact your purpose in God’s unfolding story in your personal life?
In the season for the next chapter of changes, we turn the page and begin the next chapter
-If you are in a season of transition in your life, in what ways do you cry out and desire to start a new chapter for purpose in your life? Have you ever sensed that God is inviting you to turn the page and begin a new chapter in your life? What steps can you take to respond to that call?
The Apostle Paul explains in Ephesians 2:8-10 that our next chapter of life begins with the free gift of salvation through faith
-Even though the Ephesian Church original hearers were primarily Greek, not Jewish, believers in Christ, why does the book of Ephesians apply equally to both Greek and Jewish believers in Christ? How does this encourage unity among believers with diverse backgrounds?
-In what ways have your struggled with the concept of grace? How does understanding that salvation is a free gift of God, rather than something you earn, impact the way you live your life?
The free gift through faith cannot be earned, and sets up security in relationship with God as we live into our purpose  
-As a human, did you contribute anything to your physical creation, or was it all the work of God? Likewise, for your new creation, why should you accept the truth that faith in salvation is entirely the work of God? Why is this important for your eternal security as a believer?
You are a masterpiece created by God for your purpose that is unique to you
-What does it mean to you personally that God calls you God’s masterpiece? How does this change your perspective on your purpose?
Lyrics of the song, “Chosen,” by Madison Ryann Ward remind that we are a masterpiece for a purpose
-From the lyrics to the song, “Chosen,” what encouraged you that you are a masterpiece for a purpose?
A spiritual exercise of a doddle activity also reminds us that we are a masterpiece for a purpose
-In what ways did the spiritual exercise of a doddle activity of a fruit tree and a bamboo tree help you understand from Ephesians 2:10 that you are a masterpiece in God’s story for your life?
First, root yourself in your identity in Christ
-In what ways has the fallen world system tried to define you by your past mistakes, your successes or failures, or the expectations of others? How important is it to instead root yourself in your identity in Christ?
Second, seek God’s Guidance through prayer and scripture
-Why is it so important to seek God’s guidance through prayer and scripture? What may be the consequences if you do not study God’s Word in scripture?
Third, follow your God-given gifts and passions
-What gifts or passions has God placed in you? How can these be used to fulfill God’s purposes in your life and in the world?
Fourth, trust God in every season
-In times of uncertainty, how can you trust that God is still writing your story and shaping your purpose?
Every day is an opportunity to live into our purpose
-What are some practical ways (either small actions or large life decisions) that you can live out your God-given purpose this week?