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Catch the Wind – Week 7

Breathed Into Motion

The Filling of the Holy Spirit

BIG IDEA

The Holy Spirit doesn’t just come upon you — He stirs within you.His filling is not a one-time event but a divine rhythm.When the stirring comes, it’s heaven’s signal: It’s time to move.

“On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.”

—Acts 2:1–4 (NLT)

1. You Were Designed to Carry God

You were made in God’s image — designed for His Spirit to dwell in you.

“Then the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person.”

—Genesis 2:7 (NLT)

“And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago.”

—Ephesians 1:13 (NLT)

2. Filling Is Not Just a Pouring — It’s a Stirring

He’s already in you. The stirring is His signal to act.Sometimes what we call instinct is actually the Holy Spirit’s gift being stirred.

“This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”

—2 Timothy 1:6–7 (NLT)

3. The Stirring Activates What’s Already in You

The filling is a reactivation of what the Spirit already placed inside of you.

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”

—Romans 8:11 (NLT)

4. The Gifts Are the Overflow

When the Spirit stirs, the gifts flow out to help others — not to highlight us.

“Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.”

—Ephesians 4:11–12 (NLT)

“A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.”

—1 Corinthians 12:7 (NLT)

“In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well… If your gift is serving others, serve them well… If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously… If you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.”

—Romans 12:6–8 (NLT)

5. The Gifts Are Given for Impact, Not Image

Don’t confuse charisma with calling.Spiritual showmanship never impressed Jesus — faithfulness did.We are vessels, not the source.Let’s avoid spiritual ego and gift envy — and let the Spirit express Himself through our true selves.

6. The World Is Waiting on What’s in You

You don’t need a title or a platform — just a willing heart and the Holy Spirit’s stirring.

“Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’ (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him…)”

—John 7:38–39 (NLT)

FAITH STATEMENT

I was created to carry the presence of God.I’m not just visited — I’m indwelt.The Holy Spirit is alive in me.When He stirs, I move.I receive the filling, and I express the gifts.Not someday. Not somewhere. But here and now.

Catch the Wind – Week 6

Gifted To Go

Gifts That Carry the Wind

You weren’t just gifted for church — you were gifted for life.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit were always meant to follow believers — not stay in the building.

Signs and wonders follow those who believe — not just those who preach.

“These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe…”

—Mark 16:17a (NLT)

Difference Between Natural Abilities & Spiritual Gifts

Ability is what you’re born with. Gifting is what you’re born again with.

God uses our natural strengths, but when the Spirit empowers them, they become tools for transformation — not just talent.

“A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.”

—1 Corinthians 12:7 (NLT)

What You Carry Is More Than You Think

Your gift isn’t just a talent — it’s a tool in God’s hands.

Gifts Are Meant to Follow Believers

Boardrooms, classrooms, studios — these are pulpits too.

“You are the salt of the earth…”

—Matthew 5:13 (NLT)

“These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name…”

—Mark 16:17–18 (NLT)

Gifts Are Given, Not Earned

You’re not impressive — you’re entrusted.

“It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.”

—1 Corinthians 12:11 (NLT)

You Have At Least One Gift — Use It!

You don’t have to be on stage to be impactful — just available.

“God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.”

—1 Peter 4:10 (NLT)

Gifts Are for Service, Not Status

God’s gifts weren’t meant to make you look good — they were meant to help people get free.

“Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves…”

—Romans 12:3 (NLT)

Faith Statement

I am gifted by God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and sent into the world on purpose.My abilities are not accidents — they are tools in the hands of a powerful God.I will no longer hide my gift or limit it to church settings.I am called, capable, and commissioned to carry the wind of the Spirit wherever I go.

Confession

Holy Spirit, I confess that I’ve often overlooked what You’ve placed inside me.I’ve thought too small and kept Your gifts boxed in.But today I choose to believe that I am gifted and called — not just for church, but for every space You send me.Let my words carry wisdom. Let my instincts be Spirit-led. Let my presence bring peace.I receive Your boldness to use what You’ve given me, right where I am.

When the Holy Spirit moves, He doesn’t just stir the atmosphere — He changes it. In this message, we explore how God uses different winds — east, west, north, and south — to bring correction, restoration, strength, and blessing. But above all, He brings transformation. This isn’t about resisting change — it’s about catching it. If you’ve felt stuck, stale, or uncertain, this is your reminder: the Spirit is shifting something in your life, and it’s time to raise your sails. Let go of what was, and step into what God is doing now.Catch the Wind – Living on Purpose by the Holy Spirit

Not all wind (movement) feels the same — but every wind God sends is significant.

1. East Wind – Judgment & Correction

“So Moses lifted his staff over the land of Egypt, and the Lord caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning arrived, the east wind had brought the locusts.”—(Exodus 10:13 NLT)

The east wind may feel like loss, but it leads to cleansing.

2. West Wind – Restoration & Mercy

“The Lord responded by shifting the wind, and the strong west wind blew the locusts into the Red Sea. Not a single locust remained in all the land of Egypt.”—(Exodus 10:19 NLT)

The west wind changes everything. When it blows, God restores.

3. South Wind – Comfort, Favor, and Anticipation

“When the south wind blows, you say, ‘Today will be a scorcher.’ And it is.”—(Luke 12:55 NLT)

The south wind is the Spirit’s whisper: ‘You are not alone.’

4. North Wind – Challenge & Strength

“As surely as a north wind brings rain, so a gossiping tongue causes anger.”—(Proverbs 25:23 NLT)

“Awake, north wind! Rise up, south wind! Blow on my garden and spread its fragrance all around.”—(Song of Solomon 4:16 NLT)

The north wind doesn’t destroy — it develops.

Together, these winds represent the fullness of the Spirit’s work: to convict, to restore, to comfort, and to strengthen — all to transform us.

Each wind — east, west, south, and north — carries something different, but all of them are in God’s hands. Some winds bring correction. Others bring comfort. Some bring breakthrough, and others bring pressure and anticipation.

But the one thing they all have in common? They bring change. When the Spirit moves, you can’t stay the same. The wind always changes the atmosphere.

God is not in the business of comfort — He’s in the business of transformation. And transformation always starts with a change in the wind.

“And the Lord changed the wind to a very strong west wind, which caught up the locusts and blew them into the Red Sea.”—Exodus 10:19

God’s wind doesn’t always bring in something new — sometimes it blows something old away.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”—Isaiah 43:18-19

You can’t walk into newness while dragging old weight.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”—2 Corinthians 5:17The wind of the Spirit is not cosmetic — it’s creative.

You can’t catch the wind and cling to the dock at the same time.

RESPONSE1. Release – “God, I surrender my old identity, my fears, my past season.”2. Receive – “Holy Spirit, blow over my life. Move me.”3. Respond – “I will not resist the wind. I will chase it.”

FAITH DECLARATIONS– I embrace the change the Holy Spirit brings.– I am not stuck — I am being shifted into new purpose.– What God has for me is greater than what I’m leaving behind.

God, I will not resist the winds of change.You are doing a new thing in me.I leave behind the old and step into the new.I am transformed by Your Spirit.I raise my sails and catch the wind of Heaven.

Practice surrender: “I’m willing to follow, even if I don’t feel ready.”

Take inventory of what the Spirit is trying to blow out of your life.

Pray daily: “Holy Spirit, what needs to go?”

Fast from something that’s hindering spiritual progress.

Journal what you’re still clinging to and surrender it in prayer.

Step into something new that stretches you.

Reflect: Are you resisting or receiving change?

Declare biblical identity statements daily.

Replace negative self-talk with Scripture.

Take steps that reflect who God says you are.

Take a bold faith step this week. Do one thing that requires faith.

Confess comfort zones and get accountability.

Message 1: The Call to Live Spirit-Led.

We are called to live by the power of the Holy Spirit, not by our strength.The church is the most empowered, supernatural, and holy arrangement.

The age of the church (us) is governed, directed, corrected, and motivated by the Holy Spirit.

He works with the individual and the corporate.

That’s how he displayed himself to the Church the very first time He made himself known to them.

On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.—Acts 2:1-4 NLT

Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future.—Ephesians 4:1-4 NLT

Many Christians live life trying to row when God wants them to sail.Jesus promised greater works because He would send the Holy Spirit to empower us.

He gave us the sails, but the Holy Spirit is the one who fills them…

But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.—John 16:7 NLT

I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.—John 14:12 NLT

Not because we’re greater, but because the Spirit empowers us.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me.’—John 16:13-15 NLT

The activity Jesus needs us to be involved in is to be based on living on purpose for him and his kingdom.

We chase the wind instead of being empowered by Him.

We aren’t called to chase meaningless things but to catch the true Wind — the Spirit.

But when the wind blows — movement happens without striving.

Are you catching the Spirit’s wind, or chasing your own ambitions?

You are the church, and both individually and corporately we are what the Holy Spirit needs to complete the mission of Christ.

Determined 2 – Overcomers

Thinking like Jesus involves making decisions as He did—unwavering and purpose-driven. Circumstances never influenced His pre-decided convictions. He remained resolute in fulfilling His mission. And so can you!

For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes].

—1 Corinthians 2:16 AMP

VALUE-BASED DECISIONS

Making decisions like Jesus involves pre-determining our values and purpose and then resolutely following through with unwavering commitment.

THE ART OF PRE-DECIDING

Using Jesus’ values, we will determine our course of action before the moment of decision.

Relying on Jesus’ values makes the outcome inevitable!

When our values are clear, difficult decisions are made easier.

We make our decisions, but really, our decisions make us.

John 10:10 – Satan steals our lives by stealing the values upon which our decisions should be determined.

THE VALUE STEALERS

(THAT JESUS OVERCAME)

1. TEMPTATION

Temptation occurs when we use values to make decisions that align with Satan’s desired outcome.

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.

—Romans 7:18-19 NLT

By trapping you in a circumstantial war against temptation, Satan keeps you from fully living the supernatural life.

THE EXCUSES

“I wasn’t ready…”“I didn’t see that coming.”“I didn’t want to have to think about it anymore.”“I was hurting so badly.”

Most of the bad things that happen to us are unplanned…But we have to plan how to handle them when they come our way…

Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

—Matthew 26:41 (Jesus)

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

—1 Corinthians 16:13 (Paul)

Why prepare? Ready? Be on your guard? Why watch & pray!

1. The devil is coming for you. (Mission steal…)

I wrote to you… so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes.

—2 Corinthians 2:9a, 11 NLT

Satan wants you to be wrecked by blame and shame. It’s not the deed of sin but the consequences he is interested in.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

—Romans 6:23 NLT

Determining to live life according to the values of Jesus and how He has asked us to live and not on the weakness of our own human nature is how we resist the Devil…

2. You are not as strong as you think.

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!

—1 Corinthians 10:12

Studies show that people overestimate their ability resist temptation.Restraint Bias—You think you can resist more than you can.

Resisting temptation takes tons of energy.

Willpower is a limited resource. The more you use – the less you have.

Because of the weakness of your human nature, I am using the illustration of slavery to help you understand all this. Previously, you let yourselves be slaves to impurity and lawlessness, which led ever deeper into sin. Now, you must give yourselves to be slaves to righteous living so that you will become holy.

—Romans 6:19 NLT

For I know that nothing good lives within the flesh of my fallen humanity. The longings to do what is right are within me, but willpower is not enough to accomplish it. My lofty desires to do what is good are dashed when I do the things I want to avoid.

—Romans 7:18-19 TPT

Three Keys to Fighting Temptation—Pre-Decide!

1. Move From The Line.(Tape)

Pre-Decide—”I’m putting distance between me and temptation.” (Move from the line)

Creating barriers between you and sin may seem restrictive but it is liberating.

The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.

—Psalm 16:6

2.Magnify the cost.What if the worst-case scenario comes true?

Satan loves the destructive consequences of sin.

…You will be sinning against the Lord; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.

—Numbers 32:23

3.Plan your escape.

Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, and Potiphar’s wife soon began to look at him lustfully. “Come and sleep with me,” she demanded.

—Genesis 39:6-7

Jospeh had many hurts to justify a little pleasure and fun.

We use our disappointments to justify our disobedience.We use the values of Jesus to build our determination.

Spouse isn’t meeting my needs—Do what I gotta do!. God let me be in this spot—I’m gonna “live” in it!

Joseph told her—No deal—Husband trusts—How sin him/God? He resisted—No more temptation?Day after day—She hit on him—Day after day—Devil wear down.

You might think Joseph was strong. He wasn’t half as strong as he was ready!He was smart enough to Pre-Plan his Escape!

But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.

—Genesis 39:12b

Better to have a good name than a good coat.

If you’re not strong enough to resist it—Run from it!

And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

—1 Corinthians 10:13

No one plans to mess up—Few plan not to!

Pre-Decide—I’m putting distance between myself and temptation.

Why would I resist a temptation in the future if I have the power to eliminate it today?

Decisions won’t be based on emotions in the momentBut on the values God placed on your heart!

A Value: YOU ARE VALUABLE

Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.

—Romans 6:14,16

Our defeat of the devil is recognizing the power of Jesus in our weakness.

…To be more like Jesus and not be defined or trapped by our circumstances.

No matter how often life’s unplanned circumstances have me falling, the grace of God has me standing. “I plan not to fall to temptation but to stand in His grace.”

There is no reason for you to take on the shame that keeps you bent over and your value diminished.

The temptation you may have submitted to may not be the temptation at all.

I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.

—Romans 7:21-25

TAKE BACK YOUR LIFE 

Thinking like Jesus involves making decisions as He did—unwavering and purpose-driven. Circumstances never influenced His pre-decided convictions. He remained resolute in fulfilling His mission. And so can you!

DETERMINED

Definition: Having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it.

JESUS PREDECIDEDJesus knew who He was and what He was set to do.

It would cost Him his life, He would die in the most painful way, but He would save the world – all becasue he was determined to follow through, having made a firm decision and remaining resolved to follow through with it.

Scholars estimate that Jesus fulfilled between 300 and 570 prophecies in the Old Testament.

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord ’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.

—Isaiah 61:1-3

Nothing Would change his decisions and He was determined to find the way of fulfilling them… At any cost…

Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry…

—Luke 4:1-2

THE RESOLVE

Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit’s power. Reports about him spread quickly through the whole region. He taught regularly in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. When he came to the village of Nazareth, his boyhood home, he went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath and stood up to read the Scriptures. The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. ” He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. All eyes in the synagogue looked at him intently. Then he began to speak to them. “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!”

—Luke 4:14-21

THINKING LIKE HE DOES

For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes].

—1 Corinthians 2:16 AMP

Making decisions like Jesus involves pre-determining our values and purpose, and then resolutely following through with unwavering commitment.

Mapping Our Decisions to Jesus’ Mind…

We don’t live life discovering what we believe, we decide what we believe and live life accordingly.

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!

—Isaiah 43:18-19a

WE ARE NOT GREAT DECISION MAKERS

We may think we are, but a for a decision to be good, it must actually have the pre-determined outcome or impact.

Why Do We Struggle to Make Good Decisions?

We shouldn’t make permanent decisions based on temporary emotions.

The quality of our decisions determines quality of our lives.

It’s about pre-deciding and then following through with determination.Determination to do what you have decided to do, even when it is tough, will focus our attention, will procrastinate procrastination, and will help us make less emotional, circumstancial decisions.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

—Proverbs 16:3

With God’s help, we will—Determine our course of action before the moment of decision.

When faced with_________  (this situation) I have pre-decided to __________ (take this action).

VALUE-BASED DECISIONS

Genesis 22 – God told Abe offer son Isaac sacrifice. TRUSTRuth 1 – No matter what—Where you go—I go! RELATIONSHIPDaniel 1 – Daniel & friends—Taken to foreign land brainwashed. WORSHIP

But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine…Knew what he valued… So, he pre-decided!

—Daniel 1:8

What do you value?

When your values are clear, your decisions are easier.Based on what you value—Decide now what you will do later.

POWERFUL OUTCOMES

Decisions determine direction—Direction determines destiny.

If your life is moving in the direction of your decisions, do you like the direction your decisions are taking you?

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!

—Isaiah 43:18-19a

Becuase Jesus is_____, I am______!

·     I am ready.·     I am consistent.·     I am devoted.·     I am generous.·     I am faithful.·     I am a finisher. 

Decisions won’t be based on emotions in the moment but on the values God placed on your heart!

When you Values are clear, decisions are easy and your determination set.

BUT…We’re not saved by the quality of our decisions.We’re saved by the grace of God.

With God’s help, we will determine our course of action before the moment of decision

Too Busy Being Afraid

The greatest enemy to the life you want (supernatural) may be the life that you’re living (natural).

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

—John 10:10

Satan does not have to get us to sin to drift from our resolve to live in the presence of God. He just has to get us to be too busy.

A life lived too busy is a life lived in fear…

Now, the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.’” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.

—Genesis 3:1-6

The Fear of Missing Out. FOMOThe Fear of our Past.

We get so busy running from something OR we get too busy running to something.

It’s amazing how busy we are being afraid.

Examples: Security systems, investments, relationships to avoid loneliness, eating disorders, paranoia…

Too busy to take a moment and read the moment.Too busy to make decisions from a place of peace.

When we are too busy…

…we think things that are not true.…we believe in things that are only right at the moment.…we rush to find quick fixes and not the proper solution.…we lose appreciation and gratitude because we are too quickly on to the next thing.…we don’t believe we have ever achieved our best.…we lose confidence, focus, and direction.…we lose who we are and to whom we belong.…we stop praying, we stop believing, we stop growing.

Fear motivates a busy life, and a busy life produces fear…

JESUS NEVER SPENT A MOMENT IN FEAR

He came from somewhere (Identity), yet He didn’t run from his past.The needs of others gave him a divine purpose.Removing any obstacles so that we could have a future gave him hope.

Jesus was busy—Never rushed.Fear did not motivate him.

Jesus has not come to bring us a life of fear. He has come to give us an abundant life.

As he [Jesus] walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.

—Mark 2:14

• If Levi followed an unrushed Jesus, then Levi should’ve been living an unrushed life.

• If we follow an unrushed Jesus, we should be living an unrushed life.

An unrushed life is motivated by peace and not fear.

LOVE OVERCOMES FEAR

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

—1 John 4:18

He gives us life by overcoming the obstacles between us and God.

And this is the real and eternal life: That they know you, The one and only true God, And Jesus Christ, whom you sent.

—John 17:3

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

—1 Corinthians 13:7

We don’t miss out on anything when we are in the presence of God.

FEAR ROBS US OF LIFE

We have got too busy being afraid…

THE THIEF…

…STEALS GOD’S WORD FROM YOU.

When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart.

—Matthew 13:19

… SETS TRAPS TO ENSNARE YOU.

…and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

—2 Timothy 2:26

…FIGHTS TO STOP YOU.

For we wanted to come to you certainly I, Paul, did, again and again Satan stopped us.

—1 Thessalonians 2:18

…HE PLANS TO DESTROY YOU.

Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

—1 Peter 5:8

Satan understands a few things about us…

• You can’t be happy when you are not.• You can’t serve Jesus when you are not!• You can’t love people when you are not!

THE BETTER WAY

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me so that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

—John 14:1-6

WHAT YOU SEE IS NOT ALL THERE IS

YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN YOUR BATTLES.

WE DO NOT FIGHT FOR VICTORY. WE FIGHT FROM VICTORY.

FEAR IS REMOVED WHEN WE HAVE THE FAITH TO SEE THE SUPERNATURAL WAY.GOD IS PRESENT!

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

—1 John 4:4

THE PRAYER OF THE ABUNDANT LIFE GIVER…

John 17

The Way of Love

Elevating Our Love

Living by how we feel is dangerous. Our emotions and feelings are focussed on the natural.

Love is NOT a feeling…

LOVE IS GOD

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

—1 John 4:8

LOVE IS THE EVIDENCE OF GOD’S PRESENCE

This is how God showed his love among us:

—1 John 4:9a

LOVE IS THE FORCE BEHIND OUR SALVATION

He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 

—1 John 4:9b

TRUE LOVE IS TO BE RECEIVED

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

—1 John 4:10

LOVE BETWEEN US IS LOVE RECEIVED

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

—1 John 4:11-12

LOVE IS THE GOD WE WORSHIP

This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

THE WAY OF LOVE

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

—1 Corinthians 13:1-8

Being IN God, we are IN love!

Being loved by God is different than trying to love Him.

Trying to love Him puts us into a mindset of doing, structuring, striving, working, all in the name of love.

Our love is best expressed by reflecting God.

The greatest identifying mark of a disciple is love. “By this all will know that you are my disciples if you have love among yourselves.

If you reflect the characteristics of God amongst yourselves – Not the characteristics of the things we prioritize (no matter how genuine) or the things that seem to be worshipful or religious practices (clanging symbol), we are in fact walking out what is His good, pleasing and perfect will.

LOVE REQUIRES SACRIFICE TO BE GODLY

Our Response To God’s Love is our Faith in His Sacrifice.

The World is transactional – we are sacrifical.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

—ROMANS 12:1-2

Reflecting God’s love is changing our minds. When our mind screams out for justice, retribution and human rights, God prevails when SUperntural Love is presented to the situation.

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

—MATTHEW 5:44 ESV

WHO IS THAT?

THOSE PEOPLE….

Hurting people cause hurt.

To Love Those Who Cause Hurt is To Retsore…

To Love Those Who manipulate is to bring peace…

To love the hypocrite is to bring truth.

You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.

To love is to reflect God.To love supernaturally is to sacrifice one’s perceptions.

In our journey of exploring what it means to be a follower of Jesus, we’ve come to understand that following Him is not a one-time decision but a continuous, daily practice. It’s about engaging in a rhythm of life that draws us closer to Him, despite the challenges and tribulations we face. Jesus calls us to become more like Him every day, knowing that we will never be perfect but encouraging us to strive for spiritual growth through daily practices such as reading the Bible, praying, and finding moments of quiet reflection.

The essence of discipleship is not just personal transformation but also communal engagement. Jesus’ call to “follow me” was a rabbinical invitation to learn and grow, but it also included the command to “go and make disciples.” This involves living in community, sharing life with others, and helping them realize the better way of living that Jesus offers. The practice of being together, of forming a community, is crucial. We are not meant to walk this journey alone; we are called to be part of a family, a community of believers who support and encourage one another.

The early church exemplified this communal life, as described in Acts 2:42-47. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They lived in unity, shared their possessions, and met each other’s needs. This model of community is what we strive to emulate today. We are called to be spiritual contributors, not consumers, to be irrationally generous, and to unapologetically share the love of Jesus.

Our mission is to create a space that honors Jesus, where grace, healing, and mission are at the forefront. We aim to be a church that reaches out to the lost, not just those who haven’t accepted Jesus but also those who feel isolated and in need of love and support. We are committed to being a disciple-making church, where each member is encouraged to grow in their faith and help others do the same. This is the revival we seek—a revival of love, grace, and community that extends beyond the walls of the church and into the world we serve.

**Key Takeaways:**

– **Daily Practices for Spiritual Growth:** Following Jesus requires daily engagement in practices that draw us closer to Him, such as reading the Bible, praying, and finding moments of quiet reflection. These practices help us become more like Jesus, even amidst life’s challenges. [01:55]

– **Community and Discipleship:** Discipleship is not just about personal transformation but also about living in community. We are called to be part of a family of believers who support and encourage one another, helping each other grow in faith. [05:17]

– **Generosity and Unity:** The early church exemplified a life of unity and generosity, sharing their possessions and meeting each other’s needs. We are called to be irrationally generous and to live in unity, focusing on what we have in common rather than our differences. [21:01]

– **Creating a Space for Jesus:** Our mission is to create a space that honors Jesus, where grace, healing, and mission are at the forefront. We aim to be a church that reaches out to the lost and provides a place of love and support for all. [45:59]

– **Revival Through Love and Community:** The revival we seek is one of love, grace, and community that extends beyond the church walls. We are called to be disciple-makers, helping others realize the better way of living that Jesus offers. [01:04:17]

**YouTube Chapters:**

– [00:00] – Welcome– [01:55] – Running on Empty– [03:12] – The Rabbinical Call– [04:00] – The End Goal: Making Disciples– [05:17] – The Practice of Together– [06:07] – Spiritual Multiplication– [08:26] – The Importance of Community– [10:02] – Spiritual Formation is Relational– [11:53] – Layers of Community– [13:17] – The Village Level– [14:41] – Devotion to Teaching and Fellowship– [16:12] – Authority in Breaking Bread– [18:38] – Signs and Wonders in Everyday Life– [21:01] – Unity and Generosity– [23:16] – The Future of the Church– [26:03] – Spiritual Contributors, Not Consumers– [27:42] – Building Disciples for the World– [30:04] – The Meaning of Devotion– [33:10] – Irrational Generosity– [35:23] – Sharing the Love of Jesus– [39:19] – Reaching the Lost– [42:14] – Needs, Hurts, and Love– [45:59] – Creating a Space for Jesus– [47:41] – Gathering of Grace and Healing– [48:57] – Mission and Community– [50:28] – Overcoming Excuses– [54:22] – Immeasurably More– [56:05] – The Power Within Us– [58:51] – Embracing Imperfection– [01:00:54] – A Place of Grace and Healing– [01:02:32] – Revival in the Community– [01:04:17] – Ready to Serve

**Bible Reading:**– Acts 2:42-47– Matthew 28:19-20– Ephesians 4:32

—

**Observation Questions:**

1. What daily practices are mentioned in Acts 2:42-47 that the early church devoted themselves to, and how do these practices contribute to spiritual growth?2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of Jesus’ rabbinical call to “follow me” and how does it relate to the concept of making disciples? [03:12]3. How does the sermon describe the role of community in the life of a disciple, and what examples from the early church are given to illustrate this? [05:17]4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between generosity and unity within the church community? [21:01]

—

**Interpretation Questions:**

1. How might the practices of the early church in Acts 2:42-47 serve as a model for modern-day discipleship and community life?2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that personal spiritual growth is linked to communal engagement and support? [10:02]3. How does the sermon interpret the command to “go and make disciples” in Matthew 28:19-20, and what implications does this have for individual believers? [04:00]4. What does Ephesians 4:32 imply about the nature of relationships within the church, and how does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on grace and healing? [46:27]

—

**Application Questions:**

1. Reflect on your current daily spiritual practices. Are there any changes you feel led to make to draw closer to Jesus? How can you incorporate more moments of quiet reflection into your routine? [01:55]2. Consider your role within your church community. How can you contribute to creating a space that honors Jesus and supports others in their spiritual journey? [45:59]3. Think about a time when you experienced generosity within your church community. How did it impact you, and how can you practice irrational generosity in your own life? [21:01]4. Identify one person in your life who might be feeling isolated or in need of support. What steps can you take this week to reach out and offer them love and encouragement? [39:19]5. How can you actively participate in the mission of making disciples in your everyday life? What specific actions can you take to share the love of Jesus with those around you? [36:51]6. Reflect on any personal hurts or grievances you may have towards the church. How can you work towards healing and unity within your church community? [58:51]7. What is one way you can show kindness and hospitality to someone in your church or community this week, as encouraged in Ephesians 4:32? [50:28]

Day 1: Daily Engagement with JesusFollowing Jesus is a continuous, daily practice that involves engaging in spiritual disciplines that draw us closer to Him. This journey is not about achieving perfection but about striving for spiritual growth through daily practices such as reading the Bible, praying, and finding moments of quiet reflection. These practices help us become more like Jesus, even amidst life’s challenges. By committing to these daily habits, we open ourselves to transformation and allow Jesus to work in our lives, shaping us into His likeness. [01:55]

“Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” (Colossians 2:6-7, ESV)

Reflection: What specific daily practice can you commit to this week to deepen your relationship with Jesus, and how will you ensure it becomes a consistent part of your routine?

Day 2: Living in CommunityDiscipleship is not just about personal transformation but also about living in community. We are called to be part of a family of believers who support and encourage one another, helping each other grow in faith. This communal aspect of discipleship is essential, as it reflects the early church’s model of unity and shared life. By engaging in community, we learn from one another, share our burdens, and celebrate our victories together, creating a space where spiritual growth can flourish. [05:17]

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: Who in your community can you reach out to this week to offer support or encouragement, and how can you intentionally foster deeper connections within your church family?

Day 3: Generosity and UnityThe early church exemplified a life of unity and generosity, sharing their possessions and meeting each other’s needs. We are called to be irrationally generous and to live in unity, focusing on what we have in common rather than our differences. This spirit of generosity and unity is a powerful testimony to the world and reflects the heart of Jesus. By choosing to live generously, we demonstrate the love of Christ and create a community where everyone feels valued and cared for. [21:01]

“All who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” (Acts 2:44-45, ESV)

Reflection: What is one way you can practice irrational generosity this week, either with your time, resources, or talents, to bless someone in your community?

Day 4: Creating a Space for JesusOur mission is to create a space that honors Jesus, where grace, healing, and mission are at the forefront. We aim to be a church that reaches out to the lost and provides a place of love and support for all. This involves being intentional about creating environments where people can encounter Jesus and experience His transformative love. By prioritizing grace and healing, we become a beacon of hope for those who are hurting and in need of a Savior. [45:59]

“Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (Hebrews 13:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: How can you create a welcoming and loving environment in your home or church this week that reflects the grace and love of Jesus to those who may feel lost or isolated?

Day 5: Revival Through Love and CommunityThe revival we seek is one of love, grace, and community that extends beyond the church walls. We are called to be disciple-makers, helping others realize the better way of living that Jesus offers. This revival is not just about personal renewal but about transforming our communities through the love of Christ. By living out our faith in tangible ways, we become agents of change, bringing hope and healing to a world in need. [01:04:17]

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.” (Acts 2:42-43, ESV)

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take this week to be a disciple-maker in your community, and how can you share the love and grace of Jesus with those around you?

In today’s session of “The Follower” series, we explored the profound journey of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of moving beyond mere salvation to truly following Jesus. The analogy of a trellis was used to illustrate how our thoughts and lives need to be structured and supported by Jesus’ teachings. Just as a vine needs a trellis to grow and bear fruit, we need the framework of Jesus’ teachings to thrive spiritually. Salvation is the starting point, but the journey involves a continuous process of transformation, aligning our thoughts and actions with Christ’s teachings.

We discussed the importance of understanding where we are in our spiritual journey and where we need to go. Like using a GPS, we need to know our current location and destination to navigate effectively. This involves being aware of our thoughts and ensuring they align with Jesus’ teachings. Our thoughts shape our lives, and by focusing on Christ, we can transform negative thoughts into positive actions.

The sermon also highlighted the significance of being a disciple and a disciple-maker. The call to follow Jesus is not just about personal salvation but about making disciples and bearing fruit. This requires staying connected to Jesus, the vine, and allowing His teachings to guide our lives. We must remain focused, avoiding distractions, and continually renewing our minds through prayer and meditation on God’s Word.

Ultimately, our lives are directed by our strongest thoughts. By aligning our thoughts with Jesus, we can live a life of purpose, bearing fruit for God’s glory. This involves identifying and overcoming strongholds, meditating on truth, reframing our circumstances, and committing to prayer. Through this process, we become more like Christ, impacting the world around us.

**Key Takeaways:**

– **The Journey of Discipleship:** Salvation is just the beginning. True discipleship involves a continuous process of transformation, aligning our thoughts and actions with Jesus’ teachings. This journey requires focus and commitment to grow spiritually and bear fruit. [02:31]

– **The Power of Thoughts:** Our lives are shaped by our strongest thoughts. By aligning our thoughts with Christ, we can transform negative thoughts into positive actions. This requires intentional focus and meditation on God’s Word. [10:02]

– **The Trellis of Jesus’ Teachings:** Like a vine needs a trellis to grow, we need the framework of Jesus’ teachings to thrive spiritually. This structure helps us stay connected to Christ and bear fruit for God’s glory. [15:48]

– **Overcoming Strongholds:** Identifying and overcoming strongholds in our minds is crucial for spiritual growth. By meditating on truth and reframing our circumstances, we can align our thoughts with Jesus and live a life of purpose. [28:53]

– **The Role of Prayer:** Prayer is essential for maintaining focus on Jesus’ teachings. It helps us stay connected to the vine and navigate life’s challenges with faith and confidence. Regular prayer keeps our thoughts aligned with Christ. [42:10]

**Youtube Chapters:**

– [00:00] – Welcome– [01:19] – The Voting Booth for Jesus– [02:31] – Salvation: The Starting Point– [03:53] – Knowing Where You Are– [04:59] – The Importance of Grace– [05:53] – The Mind of a Disciple– [06:53] – Staying Focused on Jesus– [07:57] – Transformation is Possible– [09:14] – The Battle of the Mind– [10:02] – Thoughts Shape Our Lives– [12:09] – Positive Life, Positive Mind– [14:19] – The Trellis of Jesus’ Teachings– [15:48] – Bearing Fruit for God’s Glory– [17:29] – The Call to Make Disciples– [18:38] – Staying True to Jesus’ Teachings

**Bible Reading:**1. John 15:5-82. Romans 12:23. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

—

**Observation Questions:**

1. In John 15:5-8, what does Jesus mean when He says, “I am the vine, you are the branches”? How does this relate to the concept of bearing fruit? [15:10]

2. According to Romans 12:2, what is the difference between being conformed to the world and being transformed by the renewing of your mind? How does this transformation occur? [09:14]

3. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, what are the weapons mentioned that are used to demolish strongholds? How do these differ from worldly weapons? [30:39]

4. The sermon uses the analogy of a trellis to describe Jesus’ teachings. How does this analogy help us understand the role of Jesus’ teachings in our spiritual growth? [14:19]

**Interpretation Questions:**

1. How does the analogy of the vine and branches in John 15:5-8 illustrate the importance of staying connected to Jesus for spiritual growth and fruitfulness? [15:10]

2. Romans 12:2 speaks about the renewal of the mind. What might this renewal look like in a believer’s daily life, and why is it essential for transformation? [09:14]

3. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, Paul talks about taking every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ. What practical steps can believers take to achieve this in their thought life? [30:39]

4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being both a disciple and a disciple-maker. How does this dual role contribute to the growth of the church and the believer’s spiritual journey? [18:38]

**Application Questions:**

1. Reflect on your current spiritual journey. Are you more focused on the starting point of salvation, or are you actively pursuing discipleship and transformation? What steps can you take to move forward? [02:31]

2. Identify a stronghold in your mind that you struggle with. How can you apply the truth of 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 to overcome this stronghold? [28:53]

3. The sermon discusses the importance of aligning our thoughts with Jesus’ teachings. Is there a specific area in your life where your thoughts are not aligned with Christ? How can you work on this alignment? [10:02]

4. Consider the analogy of the trellis. What structures or practices can you implement in your life to ensure you remain connected to Jesus and bear fruit? [15:48]

5. Prayer is highlighted as essential for maintaining focus on Jesus’ teachings. How can you improve your prayer life to stay connected to the vine and navigate life’s challenges? [42:10]

6. The sermon mentions the importance of reframing our circumstances through the lens of Jesus’ teachings. Can you think of a recent situation where you could have applied this principle? How might it have changed your perspective? [35:40]

7. The call to make disciples is a lifelong journey. Identify one person in your life who you can mentor or guide in their spiritual journey. What steps will you take to engage with them this week? [18:38]

Day 1: The Continuous Journey of TransformationThe journey of discipleship is not a one-time event but a continuous process of transformation. It begins with salvation, but true discipleship involves aligning our thoughts and actions with the teachings of Jesus. This requires focus and commitment to grow spiritually and bear fruit. Just as a vine needs a trellis to grow, we need the framework of Jesus’ teachings to thrive spiritually. By understanding where we are in our spiritual journey and where we need to go, we can navigate effectively, much like using a GPS. This involves being aware of our thoughts and ensuring they align with Jesus’ teachings. [02:31]

“Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” (Colossians 2:6-7, ESV)

Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to align your daily actions more closely with the teachings of Jesus?

Day 2: The Power of Aligned ThoughtsOur lives are directed by our strongest thoughts. By aligning our thoughts with Christ, we can transform negative thoughts into positive actions. This requires intentional focus and meditation on God’s Word. Our thoughts shape our lives, and by focusing on Christ, we can transform negative thoughts into positive actions. This involves identifying and overcoming strongholds, meditating on truth, and reframing our circumstances. Through this process, we become more like Christ, impacting the world around us. [10:02]

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one negative thought pattern you struggle with. How can you replace it with a truth from God’s Word today?

Day 3: The Trellis of Jesus’ TeachingsJust as a vine needs a trellis to grow and bear fruit, we need the framework of Jesus’ teachings to thrive spiritually. This structure helps us stay connected to Christ and bear fruit for God’s glory. The call to follow Jesus is not just about personal salvation but about making disciples and bearing fruit. This requires staying connected to Jesus, the vine, and allowing His teachings to guide our lives. We must remain focused, avoiding distractions, and continually renewing our minds through prayer and meditation on God’s Word. [15:48]

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (John 15:4, ESV)

Reflection: What practical steps can you take to ensure you are abiding in Jesus’ teachings daily?

Day 4: Overcoming Mental StrongholdsIdentifying and overcoming strongholds in our minds is crucial for spiritual growth. By meditating on truth and reframing our circumstances, we can align our thoughts with Jesus and live a life of purpose. Our lives are directed by our strongest thoughts, and by aligning our thoughts with Jesus, we can live a life of purpose, bearing fruit for God’s glory. This involves identifying and overcoming strongholds, meditating on truth, reframing our circumstances, and committing to prayer. [28:53]

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: What is one mental stronghold you need to overcome? How can you begin to dismantle it with God’s truth?

Day 5: The Essential Role of PrayerPrayer is essential for maintaining focus on Jesus’ teachings. It helps us stay connected to the vine and navigate life’s challenges with faith and confidence. Regular prayer keeps our thoughts aligned with Christ. By aligning our thoughts with Jesus, we can live a life of purpose, bearing fruit for God’s glory. This involves identifying and overcoming strongholds, meditating on truth, reframing our circumstances, and committing to prayer. [42:10]

“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2, ESV)

Reflection: How can you incorporate more intentional prayer into your daily routine to stay connected to Jesus?