Sermon: Time to Go

Sermon Date: 6/15/2025

Bible Verses:

• Acts 1:8 — Power to witness
• Matthew 28:18 — Authority to go
• Matthew 5:16 — Light to shine
• Matthew 7:9–11 — Provision to ask for

Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley

Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning

Sermon Title: “Time To Go”

Theme: God has given us the power, the authority, the light, and the provision we need to carry out His mission.

1. Introduction: The Call Is Clear

Jesus didn’t leave His followers confused about their purpose. He gave a mission, a promise, and a pattern for how His people are to live in the world.

These four passages give us a complete picture:

• Acts 1:8 — Power to witness
• Matthew 28:18 — Authority to go
• Matthew 5:16 — Light to shine
• Matthew 7:9–11 — Provision to ask for

1. We Are Empowered to Witness (Acts 1:8)

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses...”

Jesus doesn’t send us empty-handed—He sends us empowered. We don’t have to rely on charisma, intelligence, or strategy. The Holy Spirit gives us:

• Boldness when we’re afraid
• Clarity when we’re unsure
• Conviction when we’re tempted to stay silent

Notice the word: witnesses. We’re not called to be salesmen, lawyers, or judges—just witnesses. Tell what you’ve seen. Tell what He’s done. Let the Spirit do the rest.

Application: Have you asked the Spirit to fill you this week? Have you asked for opportunities to share your faith?

1. We Are Authorized to Go (Matthew 28:18–19)

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations...”

Jesus didn’t just give us a mission—He gave us authority to do it.

In other words, you’re not acting in your own name. You’re representing the King. Every time you teach a class, serve your neighbor, disciple someone younger in the faith—you are moving under the authority of Jesus Christ.

"Go therefore." The authority of Jesus is our launching point. We don't wait to feel ready. We move because He said go.

III. We Are Lights Meant to Shine (Matthew 5:16)

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

God never intended the Christian life to be private or hidden. Your life is meant to be seen, not for your glory—but for God’s glory.

You are a lamp in your school. A light in your office. A candle in your neighborhood. A beacon in your family.

When you serve others with love, forgive enemies, help the poor, and stand for truth—you’re shining.

Application: Where has God placed you right now to shine His light? Are you hiding or reflecting?

1. We Are Provided for in Prayer (Matthew 7:9–11)

“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father… give good things to those who ask Him!”

God doesn’t call you to mission and then leave you to struggle alone. He invites you to ask. To come to Him for strength, wisdom, compassion, and resources.

He’s not a reluctant Father. He’s a generous Father who loves to give what we need to do His will.

When you feel like you can’t love that person… When you’re too tired to serve… When you’re unsure of what to say… Ask Him. He will give you exactly what you need—because He is good.

Conclusion: Empowered. Sent. Shining. Supplied.

You don’t have to wonder what your purpose is. You don’t have to fear that you’re not enough.

Through the Spirit, Jesus gives you:

• Po