Pastor Jack Graham | Mission America | Prestonwood Baptist Church

Now take God's word, the Bible. Now take God's word, the Bible. Turn with me to Matthew's Gospel chapter Turn with me to Matthew's Gospel chapter Turn with me to Matthew's Gospel chapter 28. 28. 28. The Gospel of Matthew The Gospel of Matthew The Gospel of Matthew chapter chapter chapter 28. 28. 28. And I'm going to speak to you today And I'm going to speak to you today And I'm going to speak to you today this first Sunday in June, this first Sunday in June, this first Sunday in June, a month in which we are praying as we a month in which we are praying as we a month in which we are praying as we rededicate America, rededicate our lives rededicate America, rededicate our lives rededicate America, rededicate our lives at our church to Christ. at our church to Christ. at our church to Christ. Coming up at the last Sunday of this Coming up at the last Sunday of this Coming up at the last Sunday of this month on the 28th, month on the 28th, month on the 28th, we will have our traditional patriotic we will have our traditional patriotic we will have our traditional patriotic service and then some service and then some service and then some as we celebrate the 250th birthday of as we celebrate the 250th birthday of as we celebrate the 250th birthday of America. America. America. And we have special guest on that And we have special guest on that And we have special guest on that Sunday, Michael W. Smith is going to be Sunday, Michael W. Smith is going to be Sunday, Michael W. Smith is going to be with us on our celebration Sunday of with us on our celebration Sunday of with us on our celebration Sunday of America. And at our North Campus, the America. And at our North Campus, the America. And at our North Campus, the great Matthew West is going to be at our great Matthew West is going to be at our great Matthew West is going to be at our North Campus as well. So, what a North Campus as well. So, what a North Campus as well. So, what a wonderful time this is wonderful time this is wonderful time this is to celebrate America. to celebrate America. to celebrate America. And yesterday And yesterday And yesterday was D-Day.

D-Day signifying the day D-Day signifying the day June 6th, 1944. June 6th, 1944. June 6th, 1944. A day in which we remember those heroes A day in which we remember those heroes A day in which we remember those heroes and their extraordinary sacrifice at the and their extraordinary sacrifice at the and their extraordinary sacrifice at the Second World War on the Western Front. Second World War on the Western Front. Second World War on the Western Front. As they stormed the beaches of Normandy As they stormed the beaches of Normandy As they stormed the beaches of Normandy and defeated and defeated and defeated tyranny, Nazi tyranny. That was the tyranny, Nazi tyranny. That was the tyranny, Nazi tyranny. That was the beginning of the end beginning of the end beginning of the end of the Second World War. Those boys, of the Second World War. Those boys, of the Second World War. Those boys, they were just many of them still boys. they were just many of them still boys. they were just many of them still boys. 18, 18, 18, 19, some older in their 20s, but there 19, some older in their 20s, but there 19, some older in their 20s, but there is the first wave, the first boat. Not is the first wave, the first boat. Not is the first wave, the first boat. Not many of those guys many of those guys many of those guys left alive except in eternity. left alive except in eternity. left alive except in eternity. And there they go storming off And there they go storming off And there they go storming off towards Normandy Beach in France towards Normandy Beach in France towards Normandy Beach in France and and and defeated defeated defeated the Nazi tyranny on that beach. the Nazi tyranny on that beach. the Nazi tyranny on that beach. And And And we thank God for them. we thank God for them. we thank God for them. I went to Normandy, Deb and I did, I went to Normandy, Deb and I did, I went to Normandy, Deb and I did, several years ago, snapped these photos.

several years ago, snapped these photos. several years ago, snapped these photos. If you ever get a chance to go to If you ever get a chance to go to If you ever get a chance to go to Normandy, you should. Normandy, you should. Normandy, you should. It's one of the most sacred experiences It's one of the most sacred experiences It's one of the most sacred experiences of my life to pray there, of my life to pray there, of my life to pray there, to see the rows of crosses. to see the rows of crosses. to see the rows of crosses. And uh that particular cross right there And uh that particular cross right there And uh that particular cross right there is of interest to us. That is my wife's is of interest to us. That is my wife's is of interest to us. That is my wife's Deb's uncle. Deb's uncle. Deb's uncle. Uh some of you did anyone in this room Uh some of you did anyone in this room Uh some of you did anyone in this room have a family member direct or maybe a have a family member direct or maybe a have a family member direct or maybe a little indirect like an an uncle die at little indirect like an an uncle die at little indirect like an an uncle die at Normandy? Anyone here? Okay. Well, Normandy? Anyone here? Okay. Well, Normandy? Anyone here? Okay. Well, that's She never met him. This happened that's She never met him. This happened that's She never met him. This happened before Deb was born. before Deb was born. before Deb was born. But uh that's Simpson Scott and there's But uh that's Simpson Scott and there's But uh that's Simpson Scott and there's actually a little ceremony that takes actually a little ceremony that takes actually a little ceremony that takes place there at Normandy where they bring place there at Normandy where they bring place there at Normandy where they bring dirt and uh you see on most of the dirt and uh you see on most of the dirt and uh you see on most of the crosses the the names are faded, but crosses the the names are faded, but crosses the the names are faded, but they they put the date I mean the the they they put the date I mean the the they they put the date I mean the the dirt in the creases and rub it in so you dirt in the creases and rub it in so you dirt in the creases and rub it in so you can see the sacrifice of that one can see the sacrifice of that one can see the sacrifice of that one individual. So, individual. So, individual. So, uh we today celebrate that mission. It uh we today celebrate that mission. It uh we today celebrate that mission. It was one of the great maritime missions was one of the great maritime missions was one of the great maritime missions of all time and led by Dwight D.

of all time and led by Dwight D. of all time and led by Dwight D. Eisenhower who became president. He was Eisenhower who became president. He was Eisenhower who became president. He was the first president when I was a little the first president when I was a little the first president when I was a little boy. Truman was actually in office when boy. Truman was actually in office when boy. Truman was actually in office when I was born, but then came Eisenhower. I was born, but then came Eisenhower. I was born, but then came Eisenhower. Eisenhower was the president uh of my Eisenhower was the president uh of my Eisenhower was the president uh of my childhood and I remember him fondly. I childhood and I remember him fondly. I childhood and I remember him fondly. I like Ike. And uh he was the uh the like Ike. And uh he was the uh the like Ike. And uh he was the uh the general in charge, commander-in-chief, general in charge, commander-in-chief, general in charge, commander-in-chief, of that great mission. Well, of that great mission. Well, of that great mission. Well, our commander-in-chief, our commander-in-chief, our commander-in-chief, the Lord Jesus Christ, has given us the Lord Jesus Christ, has given us the Lord Jesus Christ, has given us a mission. a mission. a mission. And that mission And that mission And that mission is to invade Earth with the message of is to invade Earth with the message of is to invade Earth with the message of Jesus Christ, the hope that is in him. Jesus Christ, the hope that is in him. Jesus Christ, the hope that is in him. It's repeated It's repeated It's repeated five times in the New Testament, five times in the New Testament, five times in the New Testament, including the book of Acts and the including the book of Acts and the including the book of Acts and the Gospels, Gospels, Gospels, just so we don't miss it. just so we don't miss it. just so we don't miss it. There are no exceptions for any of us to There are no exceptions for any of us to There are no exceptions for any of us to miss miss miss the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, for so many Christ. Unfortunately, for so many Christ. Unfortunately, for so many in churches, in churches, in churches, the Great Commission has become the the Great Commission has become the the Great Commission has become the Great Omission, but the Commission can't Great Omission, but the Commission can't Great Omission, but the Commission can't be our omission.

be our omission. be our omission. This is our calling, and this is God's This is our calling, and this is God's This is our calling, and this is God's command upon our lives. And command upon our lives. And command upon our lives. And verse 18 says, "Jesus came and said to verse 18 says, "Jesus came and said to verse 18 says, "Jesus came and said to them." He came from where? From the them." He came from where? From the them." He came from where? From the empty tomb. empty tomb. empty tomb. After 40 days on Earth, he gathers his After 40 days on Earth, he gathers his After 40 days on Earth, he gathers his disciples and then meets with them one disciples and then meets with them one disciples and then meets with them one last time before he ascends into heaven. last time before he ascends into heaven. last time before he ascends into heaven. And what did he say? He said, "All And what did he say? He said, "All And what did he say? He said, "All authority, exousia, meaning power, but authority, exousia, meaning power, but authority, exousia, meaning power, but beyond power, authority. And where is beyond power, authority. And where is beyond power, authority. And where is that authority? that authority? that authority? In heaven and Earth has been given to In heaven and Earth has been given to In heaven and Earth has been given to me." Literally, in heaven, not just me." Literally, in heaven, not just me." Literally, in heaven, not just above heaven above, but the heavenlies above heaven above, but the heavenlies above heaven above, but the heavenlies around us. around us. around us. The heavenly forces, both good and evil, The heavenly forces, both good and evil, The heavenly forces, both good and evil, all authority is given to him, the risen all authority is given to him, the risen all authority is given to him, the risen Christ. All authority on Earth and in Christ. All authority on Earth and in Christ. All authority on Earth and in the other Earth, the heavenlies. the other Earth, the heavenlies. the other Earth, the heavenlies. This has been given to me. This has been given to me. This has been given to me. And so with that, And so with that, And so with that, that all authority that all authority that all authority comes comes comes the commission. the commission. the commission. Go.

Go. Go. I've said many times over the years, you I've said many times over the years, you I've said many times over the years, you can't even spell gospel without can't even spell gospel without can't even spell gospel without beginning with G-O. beginning with G-O. beginning with G-O. You can't spell God You can't spell God You can't spell God without starting with G O. without starting with G O. without starting with G O. So, go. So, go. So, go. Go therefore because Christ is Lord. He Go therefore because Christ is Lord. He Go therefore because Christ is Lord. He is the risen savior, redeemer, and make is the risen savior, redeemer, and make is the risen savior, redeemer, and make disciples of all nations. disciples of all nations. disciples of all nations. Baptizing them, immersing them Baptizing them, immersing them Baptizing them, immersing them literally, in the name of the Father and literally, in the name of the Father and literally, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Teaching them to observe all that I have Teaching them to observe all that I have Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you and behold, commanded you and behold, commanded you and behold, here's the promise, here's the promise, here's the promise, I am with you always I am with you always I am with you always to the end of the age. to the end of the age. to the end of the age. To the end of the earth To the end of the earth To the end of the earth and to the end of time or this time, the and to the end of time or this time, the and to the end of time or this time, the end end end of the age. of the age. of the age. Dear church, Dear church, Dear church, this is our mission. It's not an impossible mission or a It's not an impossible mission or a mission impossible. It is a mission mission impossible. It is a mission mission impossible. It is a mission possible because he has given us his possible because he has given us his possible because he has given us his spirit.

spirit. spirit. You shall receive power, Acts 1:8, after You shall receive power, Acts 1:8, after You shall receive power, Acts 1:8, after the Holy Spirit is come upon you and you the Holy Spirit is come upon you and you the Holy Spirit is come upon you and you shall be my witnesses. Judea, Samaria, shall be my witnesses. Judea, Samaria, shall be my witnesses. Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. and to the ends of the earth. and to the ends of the earth. This is the mission of Jesus Christ. This is the mission of Jesus Christ. This is the mission of Jesus Christ. And America, in so many ways has been such a big part in so many ways has been such a big part of the mission of Jesus Christ on earth. of the mission of Jesus Christ on earth. of the mission of Jesus Christ on earth. Think about it. Think about it. Think about it. America, since its founding in 1776, has America, since its founding in 1776, has America, since its founding in 1776, has become become become the most mission sending nation in the the most mission sending nation in the the most mission sending nation in the history of the world. history of the world. history of the world. A launching pad for missions and A launching pad for missions and A launching pad for missions and missionaries all across the globe. missionaries all across the globe. missionaries all across the globe. And it began in earnest in the 19th And it began in earnest in the 19th And it began in earnest in the 19th century, the earliest part of the 19th century, the earliest part of the 19th century, the earliest part of the 19th century, century, century, when missionary organizations began to when missionary organizations began to when missionary organizations began to form in America through churches like form in America through churches like form in America through churches like ours who believed in the mission of ours who believed in the mission of ours who believed in the mission of Jesus Christ. And so these from the Jesus Christ. And so these from the Jesus Christ. And so these from the earliest days of America earliest days of America earliest days of America of America, we have believed that God of America, we have believed that God of America, we have believed that God has blessed us and he's given us these has blessed us and he's given us these has blessed us and he's given us these blessings and in great part the greatest blessings and in great part the greatest blessings and in great part the greatest blessing is blessing is blessing is the gospel.

the gospel. the gospel. Did you know that in the Mayflower Did you know that in the Mayflower Did you know that in the Mayflower compact when the pilgrims came to this compact when the pilgrims came to this compact when the pilgrims came to this country? country? country? They said they came for the advancement They said they came for the advancement They said they came for the advancement of the Christian faith. of the Christian faith. of the Christian faith. So in that sense, missionaries began the So in that sense, missionaries began the So in that sense, missionaries began the mission of America. mission of America. mission of America. What we have become started with a What we have become started with a What we have become started with a mission. mission. mission. So we have been blessed and therefore to So we have been blessed and therefore to So we have been blessed and therefore to whom much is given much is required and whom much is given much is required and whom much is given much is required and we have a great responsibility we have a great responsibility we have a great responsibility to share this good news of Jesus Christ. to share this good news of Jesus Christ. to share this good news of Jesus Christ. So in colonial America, the beginning So in colonial America, the beginning So in colonial America, the beginning stages and seasons of America, it all stages and seasons of America, it all stages and seasons of America, it all started. started. started. And then it began to grow in the 19th And then it began to grow in the 19th And then it began to grow in the 19th and 20th century America as missionaries and 20th century America as missionaries and 20th century America as missionaries went to went to went to countries primarily like China countries primarily like China countries primarily like China and India and Africa and Latin America and India and Africa and Latin America and India and Africa and Latin America and the Pacific Islands and Korea. and the Pacific Islands and Korea. and the Pacific Islands and Korea. And what did these missionaries do that And what did these missionaries do that And what did these missionaries do that left America?

left America? left America? Often at great sacrifice. Often at great sacrifice. Often at great sacrifice. They overcame disease and poverty and They overcame disease and poverty and They overcame disease and poverty and endured separation from their families. endured separation from their families. endured separation from their families. Many were persecuted and suffered even Many were persecuted and suffered even Many were persecuted and suffered even death and martyrdom. death and martyrdom. death and martyrdom. What did they do? What did they do? What did they do? They shared the gospel. They shared the gospel. They shared the gospel. That Christ died and rose again and is That Christ died and rose again and is That Christ died and rose again and is coming again. And along with sharing the coming again. And along with sharing the coming again. And along with sharing the gospel, they were the hands and feet of gospel, they were the hands and feet of gospel, they were the hands and feet of Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. Building hospitals and schools and Building hospitals and schools and Building hospitals and schools and orphanages and Bible translation orphanages and Bible translation orphanages and Bible translation ministries and churches were planted and ministries and churches were planted and ministries and churches were planted and missionaries served. missionaries served. missionaries served. Just a noteworthy example of this is a Just a noteworthy example of this is a Just a noteworthy example of this is a place where I just preached several place where I just preached several place where I just preached several weeks ago and that is in Korea, South weeks ago and that is in Korea, South weeks ago and that is in Korea, South Korea. Korea. Korea. Missionaries arrived in in Korea in the Missionaries arrived in in Korea in the Missionaries arrived in in Korea in the late 19th century. late 19th century. late 19th century. And they established churches and And they established churches and And they established churches and schools and hospitals. And then after schools and hospitals. And then after schools and hospitals. And then after the Second World War concluded, there the Second World War concluded, there the Second World War concluded, there was the Korean War.

was the Korean War. was the Korean War. And there again, America was on the And there again, America was on the And there again, America was on the scene. scene. scene. Americans showed up to support Korea's Americans showed up to support Korea's Americans showed up to support Korea's fight against communism. And you know fight against communism. And you know fight against communism. And you know that Korea is divided between North and that Korea is divided between North and that Korea is divided between North and South. I was at the DMC when I was over South. I was at the DMC when I was over South. I was at the DMC when I was over there. there. there. And looked through the fence And looked through the fence And looked through the fence over to the other side over to the other side over to the other side into North Korea. I looked for little into North Korea. I looked for little into North Korea. I looked for little rocket man, but I couldn't see him from rocket man, but I couldn't see him from rocket man, but I couldn't see him from where I was. where I was. where I was. But he's a dangerous man. But he's a dangerous man. But he's a dangerous man. And that's a dangerous country. But in And that's a dangerous country. But in And that's a dangerous country. But in South Korea, South Korea, South Korea, when you walk, you see the bridge of when you walk, you see the bridge of when you walk, you see the bridge of freedom where Koreans, many of them, freedom where Koreans, many of them, freedom where Koreans, many of them, they walked across they walked across they walked across into freedom. And now, because of into freedom. And now, because of into freedom. And now, because of American missionaries, the Presbyterians American missionaries, the Presbyterians American missionaries, the Presbyterians were there, the Baptists went there, were there, the Baptists went there, were there, the Baptists went there, and evangelicals went there, Catholic and evangelicals went there, Catholic and evangelicals went there, Catholic people went there, people went there, people went there, and shared the good news of Jesus and shared the good news of Jesus and shared the good news of Jesus Christ. Christ. Christ. And as a result, Korea is now And as a result, Korea is now And as a result, Korea is now Christianized, if I could use that word, Christianized, if I could use that word, Christianized, if I could use that word, Christianized. There's so many Christianized. There's so many Christianized. There's so many Christians.

Christians. Christians. I preached to thousands and thousands of I preached to thousands and thousands of I preached to thousands and thousands of people in churches on multiple occasions people in churches on multiple occasions people in churches on multiple occasions in the short week that I was there. It in the short week that I was there. It in the short week that I was there. It was one of the great preaching was one of the great preaching was one of the great preaching experiences of my life. And I can tell experiences of my life. And I can tell experiences of my life. And I can tell you this, the Korean people, the South you this, the Korean people, the South you this, the Korean people, the South Korean people are so very grateful for Korean people are so very grateful for Korean people are so very grateful for you, you, you, America, America, America, for being there when they for being there when they for being there when they needed us the most. needed us the most. needed us the most. Isn't that what we've done over the Isn't that what we've done over the Isn't that what we've done over the years as a people, as a country? years as a people, as a country? years as a people, as a country? Shown to support Shown to support Shown to support of people around the world and certainly of people around the world and certainly of people around the world and certainly we've shown up to share Jesus Christ and we've shown up to share Jesus Christ and we've shown up to share Jesus Christ and the gospel of Christ. Why? Because Jesus the gospel of Christ. Why? Because Jesus the gospel of Christ. Why? Because Jesus sent us, that's why. Let's bring this closer to home. Let's bring this closer to home. For nearly 50 years, next year will be For nearly 50 years, next year will be For nearly 50 years, next year will be the 50th year the 50th year the 50th year of of of Prestonwood Baptist Church established Prestonwood Baptist Church established Prestonwood Baptist Church established in 1977. in 1977. in 1977. So, next year 2027, 50 years. So, next year 2027, 50 years. So, next year 2027, 50 years. For 50 years For 50 years For 50 years we have stayed on this mission.

And what is that mission? It is the And what is that mission? It is the message of Christ. message of Christ. message of Christ. And we say it is to preach the gospel. And we say it is to preach the gospel. And we say it is to preach the gospel. It is to teach It is to teach It is to teach the Bible. the Bible. the Bible. It is to grow the church. It is to grow the church. It is to grow the church. Discipling people. Discipling people. Discipling people. And it is to advance the kingdom And it is to advance the kingdom And it is to advance the kingdom of God. of God. of God. Why do we exist? Why do we exist? Why do we exist? We exist for the glory of God because of We exist for the glory of God because of We exist for the glory of God because of the grace of God in our lives. the grace of God in our lives. the grace of God in our lives. We exist to love, serve, and honor him We exist to love, serve, and honor him We exist to love, serve, and honor him all the days of our lives. As the all the days of our lives. As the all the days of our lives. As the scripture says, to know him and to make scripture says, to know him and to make scripture says, to know him and to make him known. him known. him known. So, my first point So, my first point So, my first point and my time is up. This is one of the and my time is up. This is one of the and my time is up. This is one of the most frustrating messages cuz I could do most frustrating messages cuz I could do most frustrating messages cuz I could do a whole summer series on this sermon a whole summer series on this sermon a whole summer series on this sermon right here. right here. right here. But quickly listen. You got to listen But quickly listen. You got to listen But quickly listen. You got to listen faster this morning. faster this morning. faster this morning. You were made for a mission. You were You were made for a mission. You were You were made for a mission. You were made for a mission. That is what Jesus made for a mission. That is what Jesus made for a mission. That is what Jesus is telling us all here. There are no is telling us all here. There are no is telling us all here. There are no exceptions for anyone or everyone. All exceptions for anyone or everyone. All exceptions for anyone or everyone. All of us have been called and sent. You of us have been called and sent. You of us have been called and sent. You were made for this mission.

were made for this mission. were made for this mission. And do you realize this is what gives And do you realize this is what gives And do you realize this is what gives your life meaning? your life meaning? your life meaning? There is a search for meaning. There is a search for meaning. There is a search for meaning. Everyone is on this search for meaning Everyone is on this search for meaning Everyone is on this search for meaning and significance. And the person the and significance. And the person the and significance. And the person the purpose of your life and mine is not for purpose of your life and mine is not for purpose of your life and mine is not for our own personal ambitions or desires or our own personal ambitions or desires or our own personal ambitions or desires or even our peace of mind and personal even our peace of mind and personal even our peace of mind and personal happiness. The way to personal happiness. The way to personal happiness. The way to personal happiness, the way to fulfillment, the happiness, the way to fulfillment, the happiness, the way to fulfillment, the way to peace of mind, the way to fulfill way to peace of mind, the way to fulfill way to peace of mind, the way to fulfill holy and godly ambitions in our lives is holy and godly ambitions in our lives is holy and godly ambitions in our lives is to do what God has called us to do, to do what God has called us to do, to do what God has called us to do, which is to do something significant which is to do something significant which is to do something significant with our lives, something greater than with our lives, something greater than with our lives, something greater than ourselves. We have a cause and a calling ourselves. We have a cause and a calling ourselves. We have a cause and a calling that is greater that is greater that is greater than ourselves. than ourselves. than ourselves. And you were born for this purpose. And you were born for this purpose. And you were born for this purpose. And you were born for his pleasure. The And you were born for his pleasure. The And you were born for his pleasure. The purpose is to live your life and to purpose is to live your life and to purpose is to live your life and to honor God and to serve him and to share honor God and to serve him and to share honor God and to serve him and to share him with others. him with others. him with others. God is at work in this world God is at work in this world God is at work in this world and he wants you to join him in it. and he wants you to join him in it. and he wants you to join him in it. He's at work in America.

Conversions are happening every day, Conversions are happening every day, especially among young people. especially among young people. especially among young people. We're seeing signs of revival. We pray We're seeing signs of revival. We pray We're seeing signs of revival. We pray the great spiritual awakening will come the great spiritual awakening will come the great spiritual awakening will come again to America. again to America. again to America. The English word for mission The English word for mission The English word for mission comes from the Latin word comes from the Latin word comes from the Latin word for sending. for sending. for sending. Sending or to be sent. Sending or to be sent. Sending or to be sent. As Christians, we are saved and then we As Christians, we are saved and then we As Christians, we are saved and then we are sent. are sent. are sent. We are saved and then we are sent. We We are saved and then we are sent. We We are saved and then we are sent. We are converted and then we are called. are converted and then we are called. are converted and then we are called. Jesus said Jesus said Jesus said in John 20:21, in John 20:21, in John 20:21, "As the Father has sent me, "As the Father has sent me, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." I am sending you." I am sending you." Why did Jesus Why did Jesus Why did Jesus come? Why was he sent? come? Why was he sent? come? Why was he sent? 1 John 4:14, 1 John 4:14, 1 John 4:14, "The Father sent the Son "The Father sent the Son "The Father sent the Son to be the Savior to be the Savior to be the Savior of the world." of the world." of the world." When he was just 12 years old, fully When he was just 12 years old, fully When he was just 12 years old, fully aware of his mission, Jesus said aware of his mission, Jesus said aware of his mission, Jesus said in Luke 2:49, "I must be about my in Luke 2:49, "I must be about my in Luke 2:49, "I must be about my father's business."

father's business." father's business." And the business of God And the business of God And the business of God is the business is the business is the business of glorifying himself by bringing a of glorifying himself by bringing a of glorifying himself by bringing a family of faith together, you and me, family of faith together, you and me, family of faith together, you and me, brothers and sisters in Christ. brothers and sisters in Christ. brothers and sisters in Christ. So, what was the father's business? So, what was the father's business? So, what was the father's business? Jesus told us in Luke 19:10 Jesus told us in Luke 19:10 Jesus told us in Luke 19:10 that he came to seek and to save that that he came to seek and to save that that he came to seek and to save that which was lost. which was lost. which was lost. That's why Jesus came. That's why Jesus came. That's why Jesus came. And Jesus completed his mission and And Jesus completed his mission and And Jesus completed his mission and declared on the cross, "It is finished." declared on the cross, "It is finished." declared on the cross, "It is finished." Tetelestai. Tetelestai. Tetelestai. Not that he was finished, because he was Not that he was finished, because he was Not that he was finished, because he was far from finished. far from finished. far from finished. Just getting started. Just getting started. Just getting started. But in his bodily life, his physical But in his bodily life, his physical But in his bodily life, his physical life, life, life, he finished the mission. he finished the mission. he finished the mission. It was accomplished. It was accomplished. It was accomplished. And now his mission takes place through And now his mission takes place through And now his mission takes place through his body, the church. his body, the church. his body, the church. Because he is alive, risen, and lives in Because he is alive, risen, and lives in Because he is alive, risen, and lives in us. We are the body of Christ. We are us. We are the body of Christ. We are us. We are the body of Christ. We are his hands, his feet, his eyes, his ears.

his hands, his feet, his eyes, his ears. his hands, his feet, his eyes, his ears. So, we are messengers on a mission. So, we are messengers on a mission. So, we are messengers on a mission. God has called us God has called us God has called us to do this. We are his witnesses. to do this. We are his witnesses. to do this. We are his witnesses. The only question is, what kind of The only question is, what kind of The only question is, what kind of witness are you? witness are you? witness are you? Are you witnessing? Are you a sent Are you witnessing? Are you a sent Are you witnessing? Are you a sent follower of Jesus Christ? Unfortunately, follower of Jesus Christ? Unfortunately, follower of Jesus Christ? Unfortunately, many are not. many are not. many are not. But again, I remind you, this is not But again, I remind you, this is not But again, I remind you, this is not optional equipment for the believer. optional equipment for the believer. optional equipment for the believer. Evangelism, Evangelism, Evangelism, missions. missions. missions. We're all called. We're all We're all called. We're all We're all called. We're all commanded. Did you know that God holds commanded. Did you know that God holds commanded. Did you know that God holds you responsible for unbelievers who live you responsible for unbelievers who live you responsible for unbelievers who live around you? around you? around you? Yes, he does. Yes, he does. Yes, he does. God holds you and me responsible for God holds you and me responsible for God holds you and me responsible for people around us. Colossians 1:28, him people around us. Colossians 1:28, him people around us. Colossians 1:28, him we proclaim warning everyone and we proclaim warning everyone and we proclaim warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom that teaching everyone with all wisdom that teaching everyone with all wisdom that we must may present everyone mature in we must may present everyone mature in we must may present everyone mature in Christ. We proclaim him warning Christ. We proclaim him warning Christ. We proclaim him warning everyone. Everyone means everyone.

everyone. Everyone means everyone. everyone. Everyone means everyone. And to ignore this is disobedience. To And to ignore this is disobedience. To And to ignore this is disobedience. To obey this obey this obey this is to trust in God to use you. is to trust in God to use you. is to trust in God to use you. You're the only Christian some people You're the only Christian some people You're the only Christian some people will ever meet. You're the only believer that your You're the only believer that your neighbor may know. And your mission And your mission is to share Jesus according to Bill is to share Jesus according to Bill is to share Jesus according to Bill Bright, the great founder, one of the Bright, the great founder, one of the Bright, the great founder, one of the great mission organizations great mission organizations great mission organizations in history. And in history. And in history. And let me just parenthetically say as we're let me just parenthetically say as we're let me just parenthetically say as we're talking about world missions and world talking about world missions and world talking about world missions and world mission organizations, we are a Southern mission organizations, we are a Southern mission organizations, we are a Southern Baptist Church. Baptist Church. Baptist Church. We cooperate with Southern Baptist We cooperate with Southern Baptist We cooperate with Southern Baptist churches, thousands of them across churches, thousands of them across churches, thousands of them across America. America. America. The Southern Baptist Convention is The Southern Baptist Convention is The Southern Baptist Convention is meeting this week in Orlando. We have meeting this week in Orlando. We have meeting this week in Orlando. We have our full flight of our full flight of our full flight of we're called messengers when we go to we're called messengers when we go to we're called messengers when we go to Southern Baptist Convention, delegates Southern Baptist Convention, delegates Southern Baptist Convention, delegates if you will, but messengers from if you will, but messengers from if you will, but messengers from churches churches churches uh to enact the business of the uh to enact the business of the uh to enact the business of the denomination of the convention. denomination of the convention. denomination of the convention. So, pray for the SBC that we would stay So, pray for the SBC that we would stay So, pray for the SBC that we would stay on this mission, but in the 19th century on this mission, but in the 19th century on this mission, but in the 19th century is when the Southern Baptist Convention is when the Southern Baptist Convention is when the Southern Baptist Convention was formed and continues to this day.

was formed and continues to this day. was formed and continues to this day. One of the great mission organizations, One of the great mission organizations, One of the great mission organizations, the International Mission Board of the the International Mission Board of the the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, in my Southern Baptist Convention, in my Southern Baptist Convention, in my estimation, is the greatest mission estimation, is the greatest mission estimation, is the greatest mission organization organization organization ever made. ever made. ever made. So, Bill Bright, who founded Campus So, Bill Bright, who founded Campus So, Bill Bright, who founded Campus Crusade for Christ, a parachurch Crusade for Christ, a parachurch Crusade for Christ, a parachurch organization, he said, "Jesus evangelism organization, he said, "Jesus evangelism organization, he said, "Jesus evangelism is sharing Jesus in the power of the is sharing Jesus in the power of the is sharing Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to Holy Spirit and leaving the results to Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God." God." God." What a privilege it is to be What a privilege it is to be What a privilege it is to be representatives of the Lord Jesus representatives of the Lord Jesus representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ. Christ. Paul said, "We are his ambassadors." Paul said, "We are his ambassadors." Paul said, "We are his ambassadors." Just as a nation sends ambassadors to Just as a nation sends ambassadors to Just as a nation sends ambassadors to represent that nation in the in the land represent that nation in the in the land represent that nation in the in the land of another, the nation of another of another, the nation of another of another, the nation of another government, so are we heavenly government, so are we heavenly government, so are we heavenly ambassadors sent ambassadors sent ambassadors sent by the Lord Jesus Christ to advance the by the Lord Jesus Christ to advance the by the Lord Jesus Christ to advance the kingdom kingdom kingdom of God. of God. of God. And we are to tell, go, tell this good And we are to tell, go, tell this good And we are to tell, go, tell this good news. news. news. Starting with the neighbor next door, Starting with the neighbor next door, Starting with the neighbor next door, across the street, the co-worker, the person that the person that you meet at the restaurant.

If you knew that your neighbor had If you knew that your neighbor had cancer cancer cancer and was dying, then then it would be your responsibility if you it would be your responsibility if you it would be your responsibility if you knew a cure. knew a cure. knew a cure. If you had the cure for cancer, you knew If you had the cure for cancer, you knew If you had the cure for cancer, you knew how that cancer could be cured, and you how that cancer could be cured, and you how that cancer could be cured, and you didn't tell your neighbor, Well, we have the cure in Christ for Well, we have the cure in Christ for something something something more deadly than cancer. And we are obligated And we are obligated to tell that person next door, around to tell that person next door, around to tell that person next door, around the street, or across the world that the street, or across the world that the street, or across the world that Jesus Jesus Jesus can cure can cure can cure the grave disease of sin. the grave disease of sin. the grave disease of sin. A poll by researcher George Barna A poll by researcher George Barna A poll by researcher George Barna revealed that 25%. Listen to this. revealed that 25%. Listen to this. revealed that 25%. Listen to this. That 25% of the adults in the United That 25% of the adults in the United That 25% of the adults in the United States would go to church if a friend States would go to church if a friend States would go to church if a friend would just invite them.

would just invite them. would just invite them. Think about that. Think about that. Think about that. 25% 25% 25% of people in America would go to church of people in America would go to church of people in America would go to church if they were invited if they were invited if they were invited by someone they're by someone they're by someone they're they know. Here's what the researcher they know. Here's what the researcher they know. Here's what the researcher said. He said, "The best chance of said. He said, "The best chance of said. He said, "The best chance of getting them to a church is when someone getting them to a church is when someone getting them to a church is when someone they know and trust invites them and they know and trust invites them and they know and trust invites them and here's a little more and offers to here's a little more and offers to here's a little more and offers to accompany them." accompany them." accompany them." That's something that we have encouraged That's something that we have encouraged That's something that we have encouraged all through the years to be all through the years to be all through the years to be an invitational church that we are an invitational church that we are an invitational church that we are inviting our friends because you know, inviting our friends because you know, inviting our friends because you know, don't you know that if don't you know that if don't you know that if you bring a friend or a neighbor or you bring a friend or a neighbor or you bring a friend or a neighbor or co-worker to Prestonwood, they're going co-worker to Prestonwood, they're going co-worker to Prestonwood, they're going to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. They're going to be in a fellowship of They're going to be in a fellowship of They're going to be in a fellowship of of believers and so do you have friends of believers and so do you have friends of believers and so do you have friends and unbelievers that you have invited to and unbelievers that you have invited to and unbelievers that you have invited to church today? And yet And yet Jesus has sent us Jesus has sent us Jesus has sent us and called us.

America has been a sending nation and we America has been a sending nation and we have been a sending church from the have been a sending church from the have been a sending church from the beginning. beginning. beginning. And if you're taking notes, my second And if you're taking notes, my second And if you're taking notes, my second point that I'm going to land this plane point that I'm going to land this plane point that I'm going to land this plane says your mission has eternal says your mission has eternal says your mission has eternal significance. Remember, people are lost significance. Remember, people are lost significance. Remember, people are lost and lost forever without Jesus Christ. and lost forever without Jesus Christ. and lost forever without Jesus Christ. There's one name given among men, Acts There's one name given among men, Acts There's one name given among men, Acts chapter 4 verse 13, by which we must be chapter 4 verse 13, by which we must be chapter 4 verse 13, by which we must be saved. There's no other way of saved. There's no other way of saved. There's no other way of salvation. Jesus is the way, the truth salvation. Jesus is the way, the truth salvation. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father and the life. No one comes to the Father and the life. No one comes to the Father except through him. Jesus said it. except through him. Jesus said it. except through him. Jesus said it. I believe it. I believe it. I believe it. He said it and I believe it and that He said it and I believe it and that He said it and I believe it and that settles it and that settles it whether I settles it and that settles it whether I settles it and that settles it whether I or you believe it or not. He said it. or you believe it or not. He said it. or you believe it or not. He said it. So, your message has eternal So, your message has eternal So, your message has eternal significance. significance. significance. Your mission has eternal significance. Your mission has eternal significance. Your mission has eternal significance. Just as the mission on D-Day liberated Just as the mission on D-Day liberated Just as the mission on D-Day liberated Europe ultimately and the world from Europe ultimately and the world from Europe ultimately and the world from tyranny, our message and our mission tyranny, our message and our mission tyranny, our message and our mission liberates the world from sin, judgment, liberates the world from sin, judgment, liberates the world from sin, judgment, and hell through Christ. The souls of and hell through Christ. The souls of and hell through Christ. The souls of your family and your friends and your your family and your friends and your your family and your friends and your classmates and your co-workers and your classmates and your co-workers and your classmates and your co-workers and your neighbors are at stake. That's why we neighbors are at stake. That's why we neighbors are at stake. That's why we need to be passionate need to be passionate need to be passionate about about about this promise this promise this promise that if we would go in his name and make that if we would go in his name and make that if we would go in his name and make disciples, that he would be with us.

disciples, that he would be with us. disciples, that he would be with us. We're not on our own. So, don't delay We're not on our own. So, don't delay We're not on our own. So, don't delay another day. This is what matters most. another day. This is what matters most. another day. This is what matters most. This is why you were born. This doesn't This is why you were born. This doesn't This is why you were born. This doesn't mean that you should quit your job and mean that you should quit your job and mean that you should quit your job and go be a full-time evangelist or go go be a full-time evangelist or go go be a full-time evangelist or go overseas to be a missionary, though God overseas to be a missionary, though God overseas to be a missionary, though God may call you to do that. It doesn't mean may call you to do that. It doesn't mean may call you to do that. It doesn't mean that God's calling you to do what I do, that God's calling you to do what I do, that God's calling you to do what I do, to be a preacher in a pulpit or a pastor to be a preacher in a pulpit or a pastor to be a preacher in a pulpit or a pastor of a church, but God wants you to share of a church, but God wants you to share of a church, but God wants you to share Jesus Christ with people you know. Jesus Christ with people you know. Jesus Christ with people you know. Someone you know needs to know Jesus Someone you know needs to know Jesus Someone you know needs to know Jesus right now. So, we stand at the cross and we stand So, we stand at the cross and we stand up for Jesus. One of my up for Jesus. One of my up for Jesus. One of my greatest memories greatest memories greatest memories of our tenure here at Prestonwood of our tenure here at Prestonwood of our tenure here at Prestonwood was back at Hillcrest in Arapaho, was back at Hillcrest in Arapaho, was back at Hillcrest in Arapaho, where we first lived as a church. where we first lived as a church. where we first lived as a church. And we were just beginning And we were just beginning And we were just beginning to start our pregnancy center and to to start our pregnancy center and to to start our pregnancy center and to stand for the sanctity of life very stand for the sanctity of life very stand for the sanctity of life very visibly, vocally in our community. It visibly, vocally in our community. It visibly, vocally in our community. It was the This is the early 1990s.

was the This is the early 1990s. was the This is the early 1990s. One of the first things that One of the first things that One of the first things that we led the church to do in those days we led the church to do in those days we led the church to do in those days was to start the pregnancy center, which was to start the pregnancy center, which was to start the pregnancy center, which operates to this day. As we saved over operates to this day. As we saved over operates to this day. As we saved over 100,000 babies in these years and many 100,000 babies in these years and many 100,000 babies in these years and many more have come to Christ. So, but that more have come to Christ. So, but that more have come to Christ. So, but that day at Hillcrest in Arapaho, day at Hillcrest in Arapaho, day at Hillcrest in Arapaho, we had decided to put out crosses on the we had decided to put out crosses on the we had decided to put out crosses on the corner corner corner to represent the lives of those unborn who had been the lives of those unborn who had been taken through abortion. taken through abortion. taken through abortion. And these crosses represented a certain And these crosses represented a certain And these crosses represented a certain number. I don't remember what the number number. I don't remember what the number number. I don't remember what the number was, but there were was, but there were was, but there were many crosses. many crosses. many crosses. And we got word that And we got word that And we got word that some of the neighbors were upset about some of the neighbors were upset about some of the neighbors were upset about this and this and this and they'd reported it to the local they'd reported it to the local they'd reported it to the local newspaper and the local newspaper and newspaper and the local newspaper and newspaper and the local newspaper and maybe even a news report at night had maybe even a news report at night had maybe even a news report at night had said that there were going to be said that there were going to be said that there were going to be protesters there to protest us putting protesters there to protest us putting protesters there to protest us putting up those crosses in honor of the unborn. Well, we just braced for it. Well, we just braced for it. We kept the crosses up, of course, and We kept the crosses up, of course, and We kept the crosses up, of course, and but one of the greatest sights but one of the greatest sights but one of the greatest sights I've ever seen was that day when I I've ever seen was that day when I I've ever seen was that day when I rolled up early to the church rolled up early to the church rolled up early to the church and one of our deacons, and one of our deacons, and one of our deacons, each one, there were scores of them, each one, there were scores of them, each one, there were scores of them, were standing by those crosses like sentinels, like sentinels, like soldiers.

like soldiers. like soldiers. Our deacons Our deacons Our deacons stood there stood there stood there at the cross at the cross at the cross for the Lord. for the Lord. for the Lord. And that's when I knew, just getting And that's when I knew, just getting And that's when I knew, just getting started here a year or two, started here a year or two, started here a year or two, that we had a great church. Because we had great men and women who Because we had great men and women who were committed to what God has called us were committed to what God has called us were committed to what God has called us to do. to do. to do. And through the years we have been known And through the years we have been known And through the years we have been known as a sending church, sending church. as a sending church, sending church. as a sending church, sending church. And just to give you a couple of And just to give you a couple of And just to give you a couple of examples and I'm going to close. examples and I'm going to close. examples and I'm going to close. But some of the people at Prestonwood But some of the people at Prestonwood But some of the people at Prestonwood who have been on mission, one of the who have been on mission, one of the who have been on mission, one of the joys of my life is to see mission joys of my life is to see mission joys of my life is to see mission organizations started right out of our organizations started right out of our organizations started right out of our church. church. church. For example, For example, For example, Serving Him. Serving Him. Serving Him. And that's Kevin and Patty Sadler began And that's Kevin and Patty Sadler began And that's Kevin and Patty Sadler began it. That's Kevin started doing dental it. That's Kevin started doing dental it. That's Kevin started doing dental work in Romania. We've worked work in Romania. We've worked work in Romania. We've worked extensively in Romania over the years, extensively in Romania over the years, extensively in Romania over the years, all these years. all these years. all these years. And And And there's Dr. Mark Denney.

there's Dr. Mark Denney. there's Dr. Mark Denney. He and many of our people have gone on He and many of our people have gone on He and many of our people have gone on trips to Romania and medical personnel trips to Romania and medical personnel trips to Romania and medical personnel and others to share the gospel and and others to share the gospel and and others to share the gospel and that's serving him. that's serving him. that's serving him. Right here out of Prestonwood. That's Right here out of Prestonwood. That's Right here out of Prestonwood. That's the heart of our church to go. the heart of our church to go. the heart of our church to go. And then secondly, And then secondly, And then secondly, I want to mention MasterCare. I want to mention MasterCare. I want to mention MasterCare. And And And MasterCare is led by Charles and Carol MasterCare is led by Charles and Carol MasterCare is led by Charles and Carol Oprea. That's Charles there in the Oprea. That's Charles there in the Oprea. That's Charles there in the middle. And that mission is in Uganda. middle. And that mission is in Uganda. middle. And that mission is in Uganda. It is an expanded expense It is an It is an expanded expense It is an It is an expanded expense It is an expanded and exhilarating ministry of of expanded and exhilarating ministry of of expanded and exhilarating ministry of of this couple and it has grown this couple and it has grown this couple and it has grown and there are water wells, there are and there are water wells, there are and there are water wells, there are schools, there's farming development, schools, there's farming development, schools, there's farming development, clothing and most of all gospel witness. clothing and most of all gospel witness. clothing and most of all gospel witness. And And And Charlie was a successful businessman who Charlie was a successful businessman who Charlie was a successful businessman who left his business behind in the hands of left his business behind in the hands of left his business behind in the hands of his son Chip and the family and he just his son Chip and the family and he just his son Chip and the family and he just is giving his life to Uganda is giving his life to Uganda is giving his life to Uganda and serving at an advanced age and serving at an advanced age and serving at an advanced age as a witness of the gospel in Uganda.

as a witness of the gospel in Uganda. as a witness of the gospel in Uganda. You can go and support that. Locally You can go and support that. Locally You can go and support that. Locally also they have a ministry that we also they have a ministry that we also they have a ministry that we cooperate with with community ministry. cooperate with with community ministry. cooperate with with community ministry. Okay, then the next one is Amazon Okay, then the next one is Amazon Okay, then the next one is Amazon outreach. This was the really the first outreach. This was the really the first outreach. This was the really the first one that we started as a church and one that we started as a church and one that we started as a church and supported as a church because we wanted supported as a church because we wanted supported as a church because we wanted our people not only to give to missions our people not only to give to missions our people not only to give to missions but to go and participate in missions. but to go and participate in missions. but to go and participate in missions. So these organizations have provided us So these organizations have provided us So these organizations have provided us an opportunity an opportunity an opportunity to leave the world and go go to the to leave the world and go go to the to leave the world and go go to the nations. And so that's a boat that goes nations. And so that's a boat that goes nations. And so that's a boat that goes up and down the Amazon and there you up and down the Amazon and there you up and down the Amazon and there you have have have John Stonewall and Beth Ellis now in John Stonewall and Beth Ellis now in John Stonewall and Beth Ellis now in heaven, Beth is, heaven, Beth is, heaven, Beth is, who started this ministry along with who started this ministry along with who started this ministry along with others but headed this ministry for many others but headed this ministry for many others but headed this ministry for many years. And years. And years. And it was on my heart just to to say to you it was on my heart just to to say to you it was on my heart just to to say to you that here are three heroes. I could talk that here are three heroes. I could talk that here are three heroes. I could talk about Mike Fechner who helped us, led about Mike Fechner who helped us, led about Mike Fechner who helped us, led with us in starting BridgeBuilders in with us in starting BridgeBuilders in with us in starting BridgeBuilders in South Dallas, and so on. So many great South Dallas, and so on. So many great South Dallas, and so on. So many great people out of our church. You, people out of our church. You, people out of our church. You, the people of Prestonwood have been on the people of Prestonwood have been on the people of Prestonwood have been on mission.

mission. mission. So, in closing, let me just say in Acts So, in closing, let me just say in Acts So, in closing, let me just say in Acts 20:24, 20:24, 20:24, Paul said this, Paul said this, Paul said this, and these are and these are and these are words that I embrace today. My life is worth nothing unless I use it My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the for doing the work assigned me by the for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus. Lord Jesus. Lord Jesus. The work of telling others the good news The work of telling others the good news The work of telling others the good news about God's wonderful kindness about God's wonderful kindness about God's wonderful kindness and love. and love. and love. Prestonwood, Prestonwood, Prestonwood, it's our mission. it's our mission. it's our mission. It's Mission America 250. It's Mission America 250. It's Mission America 250. The world is at our doorsteps. The world is at our doorsteps. The world is at our doorsteps. Now, we have immigrants from everywhere, Now, we have immigrants from everywhere, Now, we have immigrants from everywhere, from other religions and from other religions and from other religions and religious practices and no religion. religious practices and no religion. religious practices and no religion. They're everywhere. They're everywhere. They're everywhere. Don't be afraid of them. Don't be afraid of them. Don't be afraid of them. Share Christ with them. Share Christ with them. Share Christ with them. Boldly lead people to Jesus Boldly lead people to Jesus Boldly lead people to Jesus in his name. in his name. in his name. Amen. Amen. Amen. Would you stand with me, please? Would you stand with me, please? Would you stand with me, please? Everyone standing. Everyone standing. Everyone standing. If you prayed to receive with Christ If you prayed to receive with Christ If you prayed to receive with Christ with me earlier or you'd like to receive with me earlier or you'd like to receive with me earlier or you'd like to receive Christ right now, I'm going to invite Christ right now, I'm going to invite Christ right now, I'm going to invite you to come forward and openly profess you to come forward and openly profess you to come forward and openly profess your faith in Christ. The ministers of your faith in Christ. The ministers of your faith in Christ. The ministers of our church are going to be here and our church are going to be here and our church are going to be here and upstairs in the balcony, our pastors are upstairs in the balcony, our pastors are upstairs in the balcony, our pastors are up there as well. So, you don't need to up there as well. So, you don't need to up there as well. So, you don't need to come all the way down here. Just turn come all the way down here. Just turn come all the way down here. Just turn around and go to a pastor that's around and go to a pastor that's around and go to a pastor that's standing on the landing area there and standing on the landing area there and standing on the landing area there and say, "I prayed to receive Christ today.

say, "I prayed to receive Christ today. say, "I prayed to receive Christ today. I'm trusting Christ and I want to make I'm trusting Christ and I want to make I'm trusting Christ and I want to make it public." Jesus said, "If you confess it public." Jesus said, "If you confess it public." Jesus said, "If you confess me before men, I will confess you before me before men, I will confess you before me before men, I will confess you before the Father in heaven." the Father in heaven." the Father in heaven." And so, because you are confessing And so, because you are confessing And so, because you are confessing Christ today, Christ today, Christ today, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> you want him to confess you before the >> you want him to confess you before the >> you want him to confess you before the Father in heaven. Then walk down this Father in heaven. Then walk down this Father in heaven. Then walk down this aisle. And say to one of these pastors, aisle. And say to one of these pastors, aisle. And say to one of these pastors, "Today I'm receiving Christ. Today I'm "Today I'm receiving Christ. Today I'm "Today I'm receiving Christ. Today I'm trusting Christ." trusting Christ." trusting Christ." And we will welcome you, bless you, And we will welcome you, bless you, And we will welcome you, bless you, [music] pray for you, encourage you, [music] pray for you, encourage you, [music] pray for you, encourage you, give you some materials that you can give you some materials that you can give you some materials that you can take home, a Bible that you can take take home, a Bible that you can take take home, a Bible that you can take home with you, and begin to grow in your home with you, and begin to grow in your home with you, and begin to grow in your faith as you are a disciple of Jesus. faith as you are a disciple of Jesus. faith as you are a disciple of Jesus. [music] [music] [music] If you want to rededicate your life to If you want to rededicate your life to If you want to rededicate your life to Christ, Christ, Christ, God's been at work in your life and he's God's been at work in your life and he's God's been at work in your life and he's doing a brand new thing in you. He's doing a brand new thing in you. He's doing a brand new thing in you. He's been renewing you and reviving you. Why been renewing you and reviving you. Why been renewing you and reviving you. Why don't you come today and pray and don't you come today and pray and don't you come today and pray and rededicate your life to Christ publicly. rededicate your life to Christ publicly. rededicate your life to Christ publicly. We don't I don't think we do that well We don't I don't think we do that well We don't I don't think we do that well enough. enough. enough. Publicly rededicate your life to Christ. Publicly rededicate your life to Christ. Publicly rededicate your life to Christ. That's a big deal. That's a big That's a big deal. That's a big That's a big deal. That's a big decision. [music] decision. [music] decision. [music] And you can make that commitment today. And you can make that commitment today. And you can make that commitment today. There are others you want to join There are others you want to join There are others you want to join Prestonwood Church. You want to join us Prestonwood Church. You want to join us Prestonwood Church. You want to join us in our in our in our mission.

mission. mission. So, come today So, come today So, come today and join this church. You say, "How do I and join this church. You say, "How do I and join this church. You say, "How do I do that?" Just walk down the aisle, tell do that?" Just walk down the aisle, tell do that?" Just walk down the aisle, tell the pastor, "Today I'm trusting in the pastor, "Today I'm trusting in the pastor, "Today I'm trusting in Christ. I am a Christian. Or I'm already Christ. I am a Christian. Or I'm already Christ. I am a Christian. Or I'm already a believer, but I want to join a believer, but I want to join a believer, but I want to join Prestonwood and be a part of what God is Prestonwood and be a part of what God is Prestonwood and be a part of what God is doing here." doing here." doing here." Would you do that? Would you lead the Would you do that? Would you lead the Would you do that? Would you lead the way? way? way? Would you be my prayer partners as we Would you be my prayer partners as we Would you be my prayer partners as we wait for just a moment for these to come wait for just a moment for these to come wait for just a moment for these to come to Christ. No one leaving. to Christ. No one leaving. to Christ. No one leaving. No one disturbing others trying to get No one disturbing others trying to get No one disturbing others trying to get out first. But let's wait on the Lord out first. But let's wait on the Lord out first. But let's wait on the Lord and trust him as we sing together. At and trust him as we sing together. At and trust him as we sing together. At the cross, at the cross. Will you come the cross, at the cross. Will you come the cross, at the cross. Will you come and make that decision for Christ? Come and make that decision for Christ? Come and make that decision for Christ? Come on. on. on. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Just step to the nearest aisle. Online, >> Just step to the nearest aisle. Online, >> Just step to the nearest aisle. Online, there's a number. 74788. [music] Text the word Jesus to 74788. Text the word Jesus to 74788. And [music] we'll connect with you in And [music] we'll connect with you in And [music] we'll connect with you in your decision for Christ. Come on. Make that decision for Christ today. Make that decision for Christ today. Someone invite >> Celebrate with you and you can do that >> Celebrate with you and you can do that right now by texting the word Jesus to right now by texting the word Jesus to right now by texting the word Jesus to 74788.

74788. 74788. That allows us to connect, to pray with That allows us to connect, to pray with That allows us to connect, to pray with you, and to put a copy of God's word in you, and to put a copy of God's word in you, and to put a copy of God's word in your hands. What an incredible morning your hands. What an incredible morning your hands. What an incredible morning we've experienced. We are so grateful. we've experienced. We are so grateful. we've experienced. We are so grateful. In fact, drop in the comments right now In fact, drop in the comments right now In fact, drop in the comments right now a celebration for Pastor Graham being a celebration for Pastor Graham being a celebration for Pastor Graham being our pastor here at Prestonwood 37 years. our pastor here at Prestonwood 37 years. our pastor here at Prestonwood 37 years. We are thankful for you, Pastor Graham, We are thankful for you, Pastor Graham, We are thankful for you, Pastor Graham, and we're so thankful for you, our and we're so thankful for you, our and we're so thankful for you, our online community. We praise God for you, online community. We praise God for you, online community. We praise God for you, and we look forward to having you back and we look forward to having you back and we look forward to having you back with us next Sunday.