The "Hope Diamond" of the Bible

Yesterday was Palm Sunday. It happens that this year is one of the earliest dates that Holy week can occur. Since Palm Sunday was March 16th, I preached a sermon yesterday on John 3:16. In keeping with the "Discipleship" theme for 2008 sermons. I entitled the sermon
" Discipleship Stated".

" For God so Loved the World that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Max Lucado says that John 3:16 is the "Hope Diamond" of the Bible.

"If you know nothing of the Bible, start here (John 3:16). If you know everything in the Bible, return here."

You can start here or end here and find it is one of the great gems in Scripture. Below is the list of things that we need for John 3:16 principles to be applied correctly:

10 things we need to make the John 3:16 principles effective:

Knowledge of the Word of God

A Prayer life that is consistent

A willingness to take risks
Trying new things is exciting.
Creativity is part of our God image design

Leaders at the helm
Gifts and skills to lead others into and through a deep relationship w/ Christ.
It is dangerous to be following someone without leadership gifts.

A heart to serve

A designed ministry structure that allows you to use your
Gifts
Knowledge
Energy
Resources

An understanding of and preparation for the spiritual battle against the forces of darkness

A desire to employ the concept of modeling.

A commitment to forward vision

A willingness to pay the price

When you come to a crossroad:

A personal decision is required
The decision will cost you something
Others will likely be influenced by it.


A conviction to never quit
There was once a sign on the wall of a small business:

The 57 rules of success:

#1 Deliver the goods
#2 The other 56 don’t matter


Matthew 6:21 “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also”