In what ways can we actively participate in God's work as a community? Our Calling to Work While It Is Day “While it is day, we must do the works of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4) What the Verse Tells Us • “Must” — divine necessity, not optional • “We” — corporate responsibility; Jesus draws His followers into the mission with Him • “Works” — multiple expressions of God’s activity, not confined to preaching alone • “Day” — limited opportunity; obedience has a deadline • “Night” — future point when opportunity ends, whether by death, Christ’s return, or hardening of hearts Key Principles for Community Participation • Shared stewardship of time: Ephesians 5:15-16 • Unity of purpose: Philippians 1:27 • Diversity of gifts for one mission: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 • Urgent compassion: Jude 22-23 • Confidence that God prepares the works: Ephesians 2:10 Practical Ways We Work Together 1. Proclaim the gospel corporately – Plan neighborhood outreaches, mission trips, and evangelistic events (Acts 13:2-3) – Equip one another to give clear testimony (1 Peter 3:15) 2. Cultivate a worshiping, praying body – Gather faithfully (Hebrews 10:24-25) – Agree in intercession for laborers, revival, and needs (Matthew 18:19-20) 3. Disciple and mentor believers – Older teach younger (Titus 2:3-5) – Small groups study and apply Scripture together (Colossians 3:16) 4. Serve practical needs side-by-side – Food, clothing, visitation, and benevolence (James 1:27; Galatians 6:10) – Community projects that display good works and glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16) 5. Exercise spiritual gifts for the common good – Speaking gifts: teaching, exhortation, prophecy – Serving gifts: administration, mercy, helps (Romans 12:4-8; 1 Peter 4:10-11) 6. Foster a culture of generous giving – Fund missions and relief (Philippians 4:15-17) – Share resources so that none lack (Acts 2:44-45) 7. Model reconciliation and unity – Resolve conflicts biblically (Matthew 18:15-17) – Show the world Christ’s love through oneness (John 13:34-35; 17:21) 8. Send and support gospel workers – Commission qualified leaders (Acts 14:26-27) – Provide prayer, finances, and encouragement (3 John 6-8) Encouragements and Promises • God’s strength enables every assignment (Philippians 4:13) • Labor in the Lord is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Faithful service brings reward when the Chief Shepherd appears (1 Peter 5:4) Living with Daylight Urgency The “day” is passing quickly. As a united body, we step into prepared works, leverage every gift, and shine Christ’s light until He returns. |
    |