This sermon is given by GPP Director of Student Ministries Jayson Cromer. The scripture reference is from Acts 6:1-7.

Key Verses

Acts 6:1-7

1 Corinthians 12

Romans 12

Questions

What are some ways that conflicts or 'factions' can developin churches today, and how might they start small but grow into bigger problems?

The Hellenistic Jews felt their widows were being neglected.How important is it to speak up when we see unfairness or feel excluded in church settings?

The apostles said it wasn't right for them to 'give uppreaching the word of God to serve tables.' How do we balance staying focused on our calling while still being willing to serve wherever needed?

What does it mean to you that there is 'dignity in all parts' of the church body? How does this challenge or encourage you?

The apostles empowered others to solve the problem ratherthan handling it themselves. When is it wise for leaders to delegate, and when should they handle things personally?

All seven men chosen had Greek names, meaning the very group that felt excluded became part of the solution. What does this teach us about how God can use conflict for good?

Jayson mentioned that the best way to find your calling isto 'serve.' What opportunities to serve have helped you discover your gifts or passions?

How can we avoid the 'wombat method' of sticking our headsin the sand when conflicts arise, while also not creating unnecessary drama?

Life Application

This week, identify one area where you can serve at churchor in your community. If you're already serving, consider how you can encourage someone else to discover their calling by inviting them to serve alongside you.

Also, if there's a conflict or tension you've been avoiding, pray about whether God is calling you to address it in a loving, constructive way.

Key Takeaways

Conflicts in the church must be addressed head-on ratherthan ignored, as they can grow and threaten unity if left unchecked

Effective leadership involves empowering others to serveaccording to their calling rather than trying to handle every problem personally

Every member of the church body has dignity and an important role to play in advancing God's mission

The best way to discover your calling is to start servingsomewhere and see where God leads

When conflicts are handled with wisdom and unity, they canactually strengthen the church and advance its mission

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield Instagram: / gppchurch YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM