The Year of God's Favor // Chris Holm

Sermon Summary: In this New Year's message, we explored four pivotal scriptures that define the essence and purpose of the church. Beginning in Matthew 16, we journey to Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus declared He would build His church on the foundation of His identity as Messiah. We learned how the original Greek word "ekklesia" described a dynamic movement rather than just a building. The Great Commission in Matthew 28 reveals our mandate to make disciples, not merely as overseas missionaries but in our daily lives through sharing faith, extending specific invitations, and walking alongside others. Acts 1:8 shows how the Holy Spirit empowers believers for this mission, while Luke 4 presents Jesus' own mission statement - bringing good news to the poor, freedom to captives, sight to the blind, and declaring God's favor. This creates a complete picture of the church's purpose: to continue Jesus' mission through the power of the Spirit, making disciples who make disciples. We're reminded that we're not saved just to be saved, but saved to be sent - blessed to be a blessing to others. The church isn't about buildings or programs but about being Jesus' hands and feet in the world, bringing freedom, healing, and transformation to our communities.