November 28th, 2024
by Joey Hufstedler
by Joey Hufstedler
Hey Guys,
In our culture, “freedom” is often seen as the ability to do whatever we please. But in 1 Corinthians 9:19-27, the Apostle Paul shows us a different perspective—one that turns this idea of freedom on its head. As Christians, our freedom in Christ calls us to live for something greater than ourselves. This Sunday, we’ll explore what it means to embrace The Cost of Freedom: Serving Others to Glorify God.
---
Redefining Freedom in Christ
In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul declares, “Though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them” (v. 19). Here, he speaks of a freedom that doesn’t seek self-interest but willingly chooses to serve others. True freedom in Christ empowers us to lay down our personal rights for the sake of the gospel, to reach people with the life-transforming message of Jesus. In an age that prioritizes personal fulfillment, Paul’s message may sound radical—but it’s the path to a life that truly glorifies God.
In this sermon, we’ll explore the ways Paul’s example teaches us to live for God’s glory, showing that freedom is not self-serving but self-giving. Through sacrificial service, self-discipline, and a focused mission, Paul reveals the cost of following Christ and the incredible joy that comes from seeing others come to know Him.
---
Three Keys to Living Out the Cost of Freedom
1. Sacrificial Service
Paul’s example is one of setting aside his own preferences, even his own rights, to reach people of every background. He became “all things to all people” (v. 22) in order to share the gospel with as many as possible. This kind of love goes beyond comfort, convenience, and familiarity. In a world focused on self, sacrificial service is a powerful witness to the transforming love of Christ.
2. Self-Controlled Discipline
Paul uses the analogy of an athlete training for a prize, practicing self-control to maximize performance. For Christians, this discipline means focusing on our spiritual growth, seeking holiness, and resisting distractions. Just as athletes practice self-discipline to achieve a temporary crown, we practice self-discipline for an eternal reward, allowing us to stay effective in our witness.
3. Strategic Focus
Paul emphasizes that he does not “run aimlessly” (v. 26). He lived with clear purpose and intentionality, staying committed to God’s mission. Strategic focus means aligning our lives with God’s plan, making each decision with eternity in mind, and avoiding aimless pursuits that distract us from what matters most.
---
Why This Matters for Us Today
Paul’s life challenges us to reconsider how we use our freedom. Our society tends to idolize independence and self-fulfillment, but Paul’s example of freedom in Christ calls us to something higher. Our freedom isn’t a license to live for ourselves; it’s an invitation to live for others, to serve, to love, and to glorify God.
As we prepare for this message, think about your own life. Are you using your freedom to bring others closer to Jesus? Are there areas where you’re prioritizing comfort or convenience over God’s mission? This Sunday, we’ll be exploring how we can grow in sacrificial service, discipline, and strategic focus, learning to live in a way that truly glorifies God.
---
Join Us this Sunday
Whether you’re new to faith or have been following Christ for years, this message will encourage and challenge you to embrace The Cost of Freedom. Join us as we dive into 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 and discover how to live a life that uses our freedom to honor God and bring others to know Him.
? When: Sunday Dec. 1 @ 11:00 AM
? Where: New Hope Baptist Church 132 New Hope Rd. Dyer, Tn 38330
Come ready to be encouraged and challenged. Let’s grow together in our faith and learn what it means to live in the freedom of serving others, with our eyes on the eternal prize.
---
We look forward to seeing you there!
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
In our culture, “freedom” is often seen as the ability to do whatever we please. But in 1 Corinthians 9:19-27, the Apostle Paul shows us a different perspective—one that turns this idea of freedom on its head. As Christians, our freedom in Christ calls us to live for something greater than ourselves. This Sunday, we’ll explore what it means to embrace The Cost of Freedom: Serving Others to Glorify God.
---
Redefining Freedom in Christ
In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul declares, “Though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them” (v. 19). Here, he speaks of a freedom that doesn’t seek self-interest but willingly chooses to serve others. True freedom in Christ empowers us to lay down our personal rights for the sake of the gospel, to reach people with the life-transforming message of Jesus. In an age that prioritizes personal fulfillment, Paul’s message may sound radical—but it’s the path to a life that truly glorifies God.
In this sermon, we’ll explore the ways Paul’s example teaches us to live for God’s glory, showing that freedom is not self-serving but self-giving. Through sacrificial service, self-discipline, and a focused mission, Paul reveals the cost of following Christ and the incredible joy that comes from seeing others come to know Him.
---
Three Keys to Living Out the Cost of Freedom
1. Sacrificial Service
Paul’s example is one of setting aside his own preferences, even his own rights, to reach people of every background. He became “all things to all people” (v. 22) in order to share the gospel with as many as possible. This kind of love goes beyond comfort, convenience, and familiarity. In a world focused on self, sacrificial service is a powerful witness to the transforming love of Christ.
2. Self-Controlled Discipline
Paul uses the analogy of an athlete training for a prize, practicing self-control to maximize performance. For Christians, this discipline means focusing on our spiritual growth, seeking holiness, and resisting distractions. Just as athletes practice self-discipline to achieve a temporary crown, we practice self-discipline for an eternal reward, allowing us to stay effective in our witness.
3. Strategic Focus
Paul emphasizes that he does not “run aimlessly” (v. 26). He lived with clear purpose and intentionality, staying committed to God’s mission. Strategic focus means aligning our lives with God’s plan, making each decision with eternity in mind, and avoiding aimless pursuits that distract us from what matters most.
---
Why This Matters for Us Today
Paul’s life challenges us to reconsider how we use our freedom. Our society tends to idolize independence and self-fulfillment, but Paul’s example of freedom in Christ calls us to something higher. Our freedom isn’t a license to live for ourselves; it’s an invitation to live for others, to serve, to love, and to glorify God.
As we prepare for this message, think about your own life. Are you using your freedom to bring others closer to Jesus? Are there areas where you’re prioritizing comfort or convenience over God’s mission? This Sunday, we’ll be exploring how we can grow in sacrificial service, discipline, and strategic focus, learning to live in a way that truly glorifies God.
---
Join Us this Sunday
Whether you’re new to faith or have been following Christ for years, this message will encourage and challenge you to embrace The Cost of Freedom. Join us as we dive into 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 and discover how to live a life that uses our freedom to honor God and bring others to know Him.
? When: Sunday Dec. 1 @ 11:00 AM
? Where: New Hope Baptist Church 132 New Hope Rd. Dyer, Tn 38330
Come ready to be encouraged and challenged. Let’s grow together in our faith and learn what it means to live in the freedom of serving others, with our eyes on the eternal prize.
---
We look forward to seeing you there!
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
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