Brief Summary
This YouTube video from New Harvest Church of Maryville features a sermon about the importance of being a "doer" of the word, not just a hearer. It emphasizes the need to actively pursue the opposite of what the word tells us "do not" to do, and to meditate and speak the word daily. The sermon also touches on the vision and mission of New Harvest Church, and includes announcements about upcoming events.
- Being a doer of the word means actively pursuing the opposite of what the word tells us "do not" to do.
- Meditating and speaking the word daily is essential for spiritual growth and maturity.
- The vision of New Harvest Church is to present every person perfect in Christ Jesus.
Music and Exaltation
The service begins with a musical worship session, filled with expressions of praise and exaltation to God. The lyrics emphasize God's supreme position above all the earth and the act of exalting Him.
Announcements and Church Events
The speaker welcomes the congregation and shares several announcements. The ETBTC (East Tennessee Bible Training Center) term is ending, with final classes on Fruit of the Spirit, Communication, and Ministerial Ethics. Midweek services will resume on the 25th of the month. Next week is Pentecost Sunday, which the church will celebrate by bringing their best gifts to the Lord. Upcoming events include outreach on June 14th, life group on June 19th, and family fun night on June 22nd. The most reverend Melody has returned from Portugal and will lead the believer's meeting on June 29th, which will be worship-oriented. Bishop will be speaking in Knoxville this afternoon near Planned Parenthood from 2 to 3 PM.
Doers of the Word: Beyond Just Hearing
The speaker transitions to the sermon, focusing on the concept of being a "doer of the word." He introduces the idea of "do not" as not just ceasing an action, but actively pursuing the opposite. Using Matthew 6:25-33 as an example, he explains that instead of worrying, one should seek God's kingdom. Similarly, Romans 12 encourages transformation over conformity and overcoming evil with good. He references Matthew 21:21-22, emphasizing the importance of faith without doubt, expressing faith through words and actions. The speaker encourages the congregation to examine their lives and align their actions with the word, living in faith, trust, and reliance upon God.
Declarations and Giving
The congregation stands together to declare their commitment to a deeper relationship with God, obedience to His directions, and prosperity in all areas of life through faith. They affirm their giving as an act of faith, trusting God to meet their needs and bless others. A prayer is offered, thanking God for the opportunity to give and asking for the resources to further His kingdom.
New Harvest Church Vision and Maturity in the Word
The speaker reiterates the vision of New Harvest Church: to train, equip, and send, presenting every person perfect in Christ Jesus. The mission is to train believers to walk in the fullness of God, developing their gifts to win souls and disciple others. The sermon series focuses on maturity in the word as a key to unlocking the flow of the spirit. Previous points included cultivating a heart that honors the word, being filled daily with the Holy Spirit, and feeding consistently on the word.
Meditate and Speak the Word
The speaker introduces the fourth point: meditate and speak the word. He emphasizes the importance of giving God's word priority and consistently feeding on it to keep the spirit strong, the mind renewed, and the heart sensitive to God. Biblical meditation involves muttering, speaking, and repeating the word. Renewing the mind through daily meditation is essential for living a renewed life. Meditation is spiritual training that builds inner strength and sensitivity to God's voice.
The Power of Meditation and Scripture
Meditation allows the spirit to have dominion over the mind and body, preparing one to receive from God. It quiets the mind, opens the heart, and positions one to receive direction, correction, and revelation. Joshua 1:8 is cited, emphasizing the importance of meditating on the law day and night to observe and do according to what is written, leading to prosperity and success. Different Bible translations are referenced to highlight the need to speak and recite the word consistently.
Revelation and Abiding in the Word
Meditation builds revelation, which is essential for personal change and growth. The speaker shares a personal experience of reading John 15 daily, leading to revelation and a deeper understanding of abiding in Christ. Psalms 1:2-3 is explored, emphasizing the delight and desire in the law of the Lord, leading to prosperity and maturity. Various translations highlight the joy and pleasure found in God's word.
Chewing on the Word: A Cow Analogy
The speaker uses the analogy of a cow chewing its cud to explain the process of meditating on the word. Cows, as ruminants, have four stomachs and regurgitate their food to chew it thoroughly. Similarly, one must bring back up and rehearse the word until it becomes real and alive. If a cow stops chewing its cud, it may be a sign of illness, paralleling how a lack of meditation can indicate spiritual problems.
Practical Application and Confession
Maturity comes from meditation and pondering the word, renewing the mind. Speaking the word strengthens the inner man and aligns thoughts. The speaker encourages taking time to read and reread scripture, visualizing and personalizing it. Biblical meditation includes speaking the word repeatedly, asking questions, and seeking what belongs to you in the word. Speaking the word boldly and regularly is essential.
The Power of Confession and Agreement with God
Confession involves speaking in agreement with God's word, releasing faith, and activating spiritual realities. God's power is voice-activated. The Greek word for confess, homologeo, means to say the same thing. Confession strengthens hope and anchors faith, holding fast to God's word even when circumstances contradict it. It activates what you believe and spiritual authority, building up your life.
Testimony, Faith, and Speaking the Word
Testifying to what the blood has done is a powerful weapon. Faith is released through words, as stated in 2 Corinthians 4:13: "We believe, therefore we speak." Aligning your mouth with God's truth and speaking what the word says, not feelings, is crucial. The speaker encourages using the word like a sword.
The Sword of the Spirit: A Weapon Against the Enemy
Ephesians 6:17 is referenced, discussing the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. The helmet of salvation protects the mind from attacks of condemnation and confusion, securing identity in Christ. The sword of the spirit, the Greek word machaira, is a weapon that can rip to shreds the devil's strategies. The speaker differentiates between the logos (written word) and the rhema (spoken word inspired by the Holy Spirit).
Answering with Scripture and Trusting God
When pressure comes, answer immediately with scripture. Jesus did not hesitate when the devil tempted him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and fellowshipping with God. Thanking God and confessing His word can change your day. Head knowledge alone is not enough; the word must drop to the heart and spirit.
Firmly Planted and Bearing Fruit
The speaker revisits Psalms 1:3, emphasizing that those who meditate on the word will be firmly planted, bearing fruit in season. The sermon concludes with a call to action: to be helped, encouraged, and reminded of the importance of meditating and speaking God's word.
Prayer and Healing
The speaker feels led to pray for someone with stomach issues, either present or online. Prayers are offered for healing and comfort. The service concludes with a final blessing and dismissal.
