Message Notes                                             November 20, 2005
”Pit Crew”                                                            Under Pressure

 

Why do I need a Pit Crew?

It is nearly impossible for me to obey God without relationships
James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

I desperately need to give or receive encouragement from time to time
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

For my well-being and to be the best I can be

Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

I need real relationships to be mature
Luke  8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.

 

How can I build real relationships right now? 
Romans 12:13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

What it is not: Freeloading, Primarily Entertaining, A Performance, Meant to be Dangerous

 

What it is: Inviting people into our lives with the purpose of befriending them. It is making an outsider an insider. It is being like God! See Genesis 1-3, John 1, Romans 5:8, Romans 6:23

 

“Dear God, I want a real relationship with you. I realize that you are reaching out to me, even while my back has been turned towards you. I realize that I have sinned against you and been my own boss.  I turn from my sin to you, and ask you to forgive me.  Jesus, I know that you died for me and rose again.  So I ask you into my life, as my leader. I accept the forgiveness that you freely give. Thank you for dying for me.  Help me now to live for you. Amen.”

Who should practice?

Elders: Titus 1:8a Rather he must be hospitable…

Everybody: 1 Peter 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

 

Who should we show it to? Family, Friends (Proverbs 27:10), Christians (Galatians 6:10), Outsiders (Lev 19:34), Unbelievers   

 

Practical  Tips:  buy a house with it in mind, plan for it, budget for it

HOMEWORK: Invite a neighbor, friend, or church member into your home and life sometime in the next few weeks. We will discuss that in Home Teams in the coming weeks. (No Home Teams this week, though)