October 20, 2025 • 29 mins
What if growth isn’t about filling rooms but forming people who go? We open Matthew 28:18–20 and get clear about what Jesus actually asked of us: move under his authority, make disciples in everyday life, and teach toward obedience that changes how we live this week—not someday.
We start with the bedrock claim: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” That truth reframes stress, schedules, and hesitation. If Christ reigns, then we don’t wait for perfect moments; we step forward with joyful submission and gospel urgency—at work, in traffic, on the sidelines, and around the table. From there, we paint a picture of a sending church where disciple-making isn’t a program but our shared culture. Moms share the gospel with kids on the school run. Retirees invest their wisdom. Students invite boldly. Friends open Scripture over coffee and learn to pray simple, honest prayers. No capes, no stages—just presence, intention, and trust that the Holy Spirit does the deep work.
We also talk about baptism as a public declaration and first act of obedience. Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit proclaims new identity, new family, and new purpose. It’s not a finish line; it’s the launch pad for a life lived openly for Jesus. If you’ve been delaying, we ask why—and invite you to take the step. If you’ve already taken it, consider who needs you beside them as they prepare. Finally, we press into the heart of discipleship: teaching people to obey. Information matters, but transformation is the aim. Doctrine should shape devotion—real choices, reconciled relationships, courageous generosity, and daily rhythms that look like Jesus.
If this resonates, share the episode with someone you’re ready to walk with, hit follow so you don’t miss what’s next, and leave a review to tell us the one step you’ll take this week. Who’s your one, and when will you reach out?
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER_01 (00:02):
The 50 Ministry of Pastor Timothy Madd and
Providence Church, Ormond Beach,Florida.
Providence Church is the localassembly of followers of Jesus
Christ, dedicated to helpingpeople become committed and
mature followers of JesusChrist.
Now, here's Pastor Timothy Maddteaching the word.
SPEAKER_00 (00:22):
We are in this, continuing this series that
we're calling Growing God's Way.
And it's a directional kind ofseries in the life of our church
right now, preparing for a newseason of fruitfulness.
God has been blessing us overthe last few years and grateful
for his work among us.
So Matthew 28 is where we are.
And so Matthew 28, we're goingto pick up in verse 18.
(00:42):
Going to read down through verse20.
Jesus has been crucified, diedfor our sins, and buried, and
rose from the dead.
He has shown himself alive for40 days at this time, and he is
giving his last words really tohis disciples.
And they're in Galilee andthey've gathered to hear him.
He speaks to them, beginning inverse 18.
(01:05):
The Bible says, And Jesus cameand spoke to them, saying, All
authority has been given to mein heaven and on earth.
Go, therefore, and makedisciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name ofthe Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit, teaching themto observe all things that I've
(01:26):
commanded you.
And lo, I'm with you always,even to the end of the age.
And then Matthew puts at theend, Amen.
This is God's word.
Jesus' words.
So as your pastor this morning,I really want you to hear me
clearly, especially if you are amember here, a long-term
attendee, I love this churchdearly.
I do.
(01:46):
And it's I it's not for itsbuildings, not for our programs
or events, but for you, thepeople of God.
The people that God has gatheredtogether in this family over the
years.
And at this moment, even in thelife of this church, I want you
to know I think about you duringthe week.
I just can't get you off mymind.
I wish I could sometimes.
(02:08):
I think about you during theweek.
Uh I pray for your families.
I rejoice in your joys, and Igrieve your losses.
I carry a shepherd's burden anda shepherd's joy, knowing that
God is at work among us.
I believe with all my heart, andso do the other pastors and many
(02:30):
of the deacons and trustees aswe've met and prayed.
I believe with all my heart thatHe is continuing to grow
something special in the life ofProvidence.
Not just numerically, butspiritually.
Not just attendance, butaffection for Jesus.
And I don't want us to slip intocruise control, to put it on
(02:52):
autopilot.
I want us to be a church that'smarked by movement.
I'm talking about bold,obedient, spirit-filled,
mission-driven, for the glory ofGod and for the good of our
community and the world.
Here we live on the coast ofFlorida, and the one thing I've
known over the last 19 yearsthat I've lived here is people
(03:13):
are constantly on the move,physically and spiritually.
Some come to rest, others cometo build, and many come
searching for somethingdifferent and new.
However, through all thismovement, one thing has become
really clear to me, and that isthat the church must not just be
a gathering place, but a sendingplace.
(03:34):
And in the life of Providence,we are seeing God grow his
church in many ways.
But he's not just calling usagain to grow in number, he's
calling us to mature in mission.
And if we want to grow God'sway, continue to grow God's way,
we need to always continue toreturn to the words of Jesus in
Matthew 28, verses 18 through20.
(03:54):
It's called by many people theGreat Commission.
And the Great Commission is notjust a slogan, it's not just a
church slogan, it's actually thechurch's mission.
It defines who we are and whatwe're called to do.
And so everything that theseverses reveal in Jesus' final
instructions are here rightbefore his ascension to heaven.
(04:15):
And these are his directions,his directives to his disciples,
and through them to us in hisword.
They're not optional and they'renot insignificant.
They're essential.
Every believer, every church,every local church is meant to
be shaped by these words.
I was thinking, and I have beenthinking this for a while, what
(04:38):
if, what if, what if the growththat we've been experiencing
over the last few years isn'tjust for fuller rooms or better
programs?
What if God is preparing us forgreater sending individually and
as a church?
What if he's calling us to godeeper in commitment and bolder
in witness and more intentionalin our everyday relationship?
(05:02):
So today, just for the next fewminutes, I hope we can deeply
absorb these three verses, notjust for a motivational speech,
but really for a divine command.
How we are, by God, by Jesus,sent to make a difference.
Sent to make a difference inother people's lives, sent to
(05:23):
make a difference in ourcommunity, and sent to make a
difference in the world atlarge.
And so let's go through themjust for the next little bit
with some open hearts and somewilling hands, hopefully.
So if we are sent to make adifference, what does that look
like?
How does that come about reallyin our own lives?
Well, first of all, I think aswe begin to look at verse 18, we
(05:45):
need to embrace the authoritythat sends you.
Embrace the authority that sendsus.
And I really want you to, let meread it again.
And Jesus came and spoke tothem, saying, All authority has
been given to me in heaven andon earth.
All authority has been given tome in heaven and on earth.
(06:08):
I want you to feel the weightand the wonder of that truth.
Jesus has all authority, whichhas implications for how we live
this week.
This week.
I'm talking about whether you'rewalking into your office on
Monday, whether you are sittingin traffic on Granada or US 1,
(06:29):
whether you are cleaning thehouse, whether you are watching
your child's soccer game,whether you are waiting in a
doctor's exam room, Jesus is incharge.
He's in charge.
Not your stress, not theeconomy, not your fears or your
limitations.
Jesus is risen, he is exalted,and he is seated at the Father's
right hand.
And so all things, yes, allthings are under his feet.
(06:53):
He rules the cosmos, he rulesyour, and he cares about your
calendar, and he cares aboutyour concerns.
And his authority isn't just adoctrinal truth to be affirmed,
it's a daily reality to beembraced.
And so let's stop waiting forthe perfect moment.
Let's stop waiting for theperfect plan.
Let's walk in obedience withjoyful submission, holy
(07:17):
boldness, and gospel urgency.
Because Jesus, our King, reignsand he is with us.
We're not here to go through themotions, but to proclaim Christ.
And we do it with his authority,not our own, his.
So every volunteer that greetssomeone at the door, every
(07:40):
parent or grandparent who prayswith their child at bedtime or
whenever, every member whoactually opens their Bible,
either paper Bible or a Bibleapp at a coffee shop with a
friend, all of that is adeclaration of who's in charge.
Jesus has all authority.
And he's entrusted us to go asChristians with boldness.
(08:04):
Jesus came and said to them, Allauthority in heaven and on earth
has been given to me.
So this is the foundation.
Before we, before Jesus tells usto go, as one who is sent to
make a difference, before hetells us to go, he reminds us of
who he is.
He is the one with allauthority.
That phrase, all authority, itsignifies rightful, legal, and
(08:29):
sovereign power.
Jesus holds the authority ofAlmighty God Himself, because He
is God in the flesh.
And this actually fulfillsDaniel chapter 7, verse 13
through 14, where the Son of Manis given dominion and a kingdom
that will never be destroyed.
Now that is talking also about afuture day as well.
(08:51):
You need to know it's already.
It's already and not yet, all atthe same time.
Because after his resurrection,Jesus, the Bible says in
Ephesians 1:20 through 21, Jesusis exalted to the Father's right
hand with full authority oversalvation history, over
creation, and over his church.
And so what that means is thatthe gospel is not a suggestion.
(09:15):
It's not just a suggestion, it'sactually a royal declaration.
And so we, individually and as achurch, we proclaim the good
news under the authority of theking.
We don't create the message, wedeliver it as ambassadors.
And this authority is not onlyworldwide, but it's also
personal.
(09:35):
Jesus doesn't just rule over thenations, he rules over and he
reigns over our lives.
And his authority comforts usduring our weaknesses, urges us
forward when we hesitate, wedon't walk alone, and we're not
without power.
We're not without authority.
Think of a police officerstopping traffic.
(09:57):
That officer might not haveenough strength to stop the car
physically.
I doubt they do.
But their badge and the bluelights hold the government's
authority.
If you've ever, in your rearviewmirror, saw the blue lights
flashing, you had a littlemoment of panic.
I mean, just a tiny little youknow what I'm talking about?
(10:17):
Anybody ever had the blue lightsflashing in their rearview
mirror?
You bunch of criminals.
Sinners, that's what you are.
But that's how it is with us.
We don't act in our ownstrength, but under Christ's
authority.
And this authority is personal.
It means your fears, it meansyour inadequacies, your past,
(10:38):
and your doubts are all underhis rule.
And you don't have to beperfect, but you do have to be
willing.
And so the one who has said, allauthority is his, the one who
has all authority is the one whosays, I'm sending you.
Embrace that.
Embrace it.
Not only that, Jesus tells ushere that we have to live out
(11:02):
the disciple-making mission hegave us.
We have to live out the missionhe gave us.
Go therefore, verse 19.
Go therefore and make disciplesof all the nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father,of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit.
This is my greatest hope for usas a church.
(11:23):
I hope that every person in thefamily of Providence will live
on mission.
Not just a few, but it's reallythe calling of every believer.
I imagine a church where makingdisciples isn't a special
program, it's our culture.
That means we don't just attendchurch together.
We don't just attend worshiptogether.
(11:45):
We actually walk with oneanother regularly in grace and
truth and genuine spiritualrelationship.
I hope to see discipleship, andI know it does some.
Don't get me wrong.
I'm aware of it does some.
I hope to see discipleshiphappening in our kitchens, in
our backyards, all over, andover coffee on Monday mornings
or lunch on Thursdays orwherever it is.
(12:08):
Listen, if you know Jesus asSavior and Lord, then you are
ready to help someone else knowhim better.
You are.
You don't need to be atheologian to be obedient.
Just available.
Just available.
God is already doing somethingsignificant among us, and I
believe he is inviting us toembrace it entirely.
(12:31):
I'm talking about a culture offaithful, personal, and
intentional disciple making.
Let's not just talk about it.
Let's live it.
Disciple making isn't just formissionaries overseas.
I mean, I'm grateful that Toddand Christy and the team in
Rome, Italy are doing that.
It was great to hear theirreport a few months back.
(12:54):
Praise God for that.
And all the other missionariesthat we support and are a part
of.
Disciple making isn't just formissionaries overseas, it's for
everyday believers like you andme right here in our Providence
family.
It's for moms sharing the gospelwith their kids on the drive to
school.
It's for retirees who use theirtime and their wisdom to invest
(13:17):
in others.
It's for teenagers who boldlyinvite their friends to come
hear about Jesus.
So this is not an optionaladdition to the Christian life.
It's the heart of it.
It's the heart of it.
The mission is central to who weare.
Our kids' ministry is not justchildcare.
It's planting seeds of faith,it's teaching them the gospel.
(13:39):
Our BFGs aren't simplycommunity, they're training
grounds for discipleship.
This and on and on.
This is our identity because itis our Savior's final command.
Go therefore and make disciplesof all nations.
The central command here is makedisciples.
Evangelism and conversion areobviously vital, it's part of
it.
(13:59):
But the goal is discipleship.
Jesus didn't say make converts.
He said what?
Make disciples.
Disciples.
Creating lifelong followers ofJesus.
In Jesus' time, when he's sayingthis, a disciple was more than
just a student.
A disciple actually attachedtheir life to their teacher.
(14:22):
Jesus said in Luke chapter 6,verse 40, he said, everyone when
he is fully trained will be likehis teacher.
Wow.
And so the word go suggestswhat?
That's real deep, isn't it?
You gotta be a Greek scholar tofigure that one out.
The word go suggests movement.
(14:44):
It suggests action.
It suggests purpose.
Now, disciple making involvesrisk.
It involves love.
It involves buildingrelationships.
It takes place in everydaysettings, kitchens, classrooms,
coffee shops, porches, golfcourses, you name it.
And it isn't ostentatious, butit is impactful.
(15:07):
Discipleship, and hear me wellon this, discipleship isn't just
about doing a Bible study.
I bet we already know more ofthe Bible than we actually do.
Discipleship isn't just moreBible study, it's actually about
helping others become more likeJesus by walking closely with
Him yourself.
(15:29):
With Him yourself.
It involves showing them whatgenuine faith looks like in
daily life.
How you pray, how you forgive,how you struggle, and how you
keep trusting through trials andcrisis and hardship.
(15:50):
You're showing people whatgenuine faith looks like in
daily life.
And it's personal because itrequires your life.
It's shared because we grow besttogether.
I mean, imagine.
Imagine a mom who starts readingthe Bible with her teenage
daughter, or a man who beginspraying regularly with a
(16:12):
coworker or a friend or a buddy.
One, maybe one who is new to thefaith, the other more mature.
And over time they growtogether.
And something happens.
A spouse becomes curious.
A neighbor listens in.
A son or daughter starts askingquestions.
And eventually, friends andfamily who were once far from
(16:33):
God began to respond.
Because that's what disciplemaking can look like.
It's faithful, it's simple, andit's personal.
And when it happens, I'm tellingyou, when it happens, entire
households and entire circles offriends can be changed for
eternity.
And so if you've never discipledsomeone, don't overthink it.
(16:57):
Just get started.
Just get started.
How?
Well, you could start by sharingyour story and how Jesus has
actually changed your life.
Now, if you got nothing to talkabout, maybe you don't need to
be sharing that story.
So I didn't get saved, you know,late in life.
I was young.
(17:18):
Okay, well, how's having Jesusin your life changed you in the
last year?
Let's not go back to theprofession of faith point.
You might not have been a drunkor a drug addict or living out
in the world or something likethat and had this miraculous,
you know, conversion.
You might have been converted asa child, but how much growth
have you seen from a year ago?
(17:38):
How has Jesus changed your lifelately?
What's he walked you through?
You can share that.
You begin to ask a friend or afamily member or a coworker,
anybody you want to ask.
Ask them how they're doingspiritually.
Maybe open the Bible with them.
Read a gospel passage with them.
Read a psalm with them.
(17:59):
Pray with them, even if it'ssimple.
Because it's not about beingperfect.
It's about being present.
It's about being intentional.
Jesus, you don't have to haveall the answers.
Just willingness.
Jesus didn't say, disciple onceyou're trained.
(18:22):
No.
He said what?
Go.
He said, go.
And your obedience, even if itfeels small, can actually be the
spark that God uses to changesomeone's life.
And so here's the challenge.
Ask God this week to revealsomeone in your life who needs
(18:44):
help growing in their faith.
It could be a child, it could bea teenager, it could be a
friend, a coworker, a familymember, a neighbor, whatever.
Once he reveals that, I promiseyou, if you begin praying and
asking God to reveal that toyou, he will.
If you're not hard-headed andsay, okay, I hear your answer,
(19:06):
but I don't like it.
No.
This is open hands, open heartwhen he does.
If you'll have enough gumptionto pray and ask God to reveal
someone to you, and he does,take the initiative.
Send them a text.
Give them a call.
Set up a time to meet.
(19:27):
Or invite them out to studyGod's Word with you.
Or begin to pray.
Begin to have that conversation.
And as you walk with them, don'tjust help them grow.
Also look for opportunities toshare the gospel.
This person might not be aChristian, might not be saved.
Ask them where they stand withJesus.
Invite them to trust Him.
And remember, it's not your jobto save anybody.
(19:48):
That's the work of the HolySpirit.
Your role is to be faithful.
Your role is to speak truth andlove and to point them to the
Savior.
Discipleship doesn't need astage, it doesn't need a
platform.
It just needs your yes.
Don't wait.
Start this week.
(20:09):
Live out the mission.
Well, if we're going to be sentto make a difference, we also
have to identify with Jesuspublicly and help others do the
same.
Second part of verse 19.
It says, go therefore, ofcourse, the first part, go
therefore and make disciples ofall the nations.
Second part, baptizing them inthe name of the Father and of
(20:30):
the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
I'll tell you, there are a fewmoments, I think, that better
capture the essence of thegospel than baptism.
As a matter of fact, you see thewater is in the baptistry, and
then at the beginning of thesecond service, we're baptizing.
On September 14th, we're goingto have another ocean baptism.
I praise God for that.
(20:50):
And watching God, watchingsomeone go under the water in
surrender and emerge into thearms of a rejoicing church
family, that's sacred.
It's sacred, it's powerful.
And it never loses its impact.
Because baptism isn't only asymbol, it's actually a
(21:13):
declaration.
Every time we do it, it's adeclaration that Jesus saves and
transforms lives.
So I just need to say, if youfelt that baptism might be your
next step, I would be honored.
I want you to know, I would behonored, and others of us would,
to help you to walk with youthrough it.
(21:34):
You don't have to figure it outalone.
We're here for you.
Let's take that step together infaith and in obedience.
And so, at Providence, overthese last 15 years, we've
repeatedly witnessed the powerof baptism.
We've witnessed that a lot thisyear.
Praise God.
When someone publicly commits totheir faith in Jesus.
(21:58):
And what happens is it actuallyimpacts more than just their
personal story.
It actually spreads throughfamilies.
It ignites conversations amongfriends.
It renews faith in others aswell.
And it serves as a reminder thatGod continues to save and change
lives.
Every single baptism proclaimsJesus is Lord.
(22:22):
Everyone.
My goal, my prayer is to makethis church family and this
place we're taking this step iscommon.
It's celebrated, it'sencouraged.
It's where each of us helpothers find the courage to say
yes to Jesus both publicly andjoyfully.
Baptizing them in the name ofthe Father, Son, and the Holy
(22:44):
Spirit.
Baptism is more than a ritual.
It's actually the first step ofobedience in the Christian life.
It's how believers publiclyidentify with Jesus, symbolizing
death to sin, resurrection withChrist, and new life.
And that Trinitarian formulamight sound theological, but it
(23:06):
holds a deep personalsignificance.
Because when we're baptized inthe name of the Father, of the
Son and the Holy Spirit, we'reexpressing that my whole life
belongs to the God who createdme, the God who rescued me
through Jesus, and is nowtransforming me by the Holy
Spirit.
That's what you're saying.
(23:26):
It's more than just a ritual, itis a complete surrender to the
God who invites us into hisfamily and grants us a new
identity as our own.
And baptism reminds us, andeverybody else that witnesses
it, that we do not belong toourselves, but to Christ.
It's a visible statement thatour lives are no longer ours,
(23:47):
but surrendered to Jesus'Lordship.
And so through baptism, we showa new identity that we are now
sons and daughters of God.
And we're welcomed into this newcommunity, the family of faith.
And we're given a new purpose,and that's to live for his glory
and make him known.
But baptism isn't the finishline, it's the starting point of
(24:10):
a life lived openly for Jesus.
It's the moment when we publiclydeclare, I belong to him.
So, are you ready to berecognized as a follower of
Christ?
Regardless of the cost.
Regardless of the cost.
(24:32):
Jesus said, Whoever acknowledgesme before men, I will
acknowledge before my Father inheaven.
And so, in a world that oftenkeeps faith very private and
doesn't want it out in the open,baptism is a very bold
declaration saying that Jesus ismy Savior, my King, and my Lord.
(24:53):
So here's my challenge.
If you've been delaying baptism,ask yourself why.
What's holding you back?
Fear?
Uncertainty?
Right?
Don't let anything stand in theway of obeying Jesus.
(25:19):
And so, if you've already beenbaptized, then let me ask you
this question (25:22):
Who are you helping to take that next step?
Because God might actually callyou to walk alongside someone
else as they take this publicact of faith.
Let's be a church that doesn'tpostpone obedience across the
board.
But a church that moves quicklytoward it.
(25:45):
So identify with Jesus and helpothers to do the same.
It's part of being sent to makea difference.
Verse 20.
First part of verse 20.
Teaching them to observe allthings that I've commanded you.
So if we're going to be sentourselves to make a difference,
what has to happen?
(26:05):
Well, we have to commit to thegrowth that transforms you.
Commit to the growth thattransforms you.
I have to tell you what, what Iwant for Providence Church is
not just that we would be achurch that knows the Bible,
although that's incrediblyimportant.
But not that we would just be achurch that knows the Bible, but
(26:28):
that we would live it andbreathe it and walk it out in
every part of our lives.
I want us to be a people whomove beyond agreement with Jesus
into actual obedience to him.
Where his commands shape ourconversations, where his
commands shape our decisions andour daily rhythms.
(26:50):
Because this is where real poweris.
That's when trust deepens inmarriages and strongholds in our
lives begin to crumble.
And family and friends actuallystart asking, why are you
different?
Are you different?
(27:12):
I'm praying not just for smarterChristians, but obedient ones.
Not just for more teaching, butfor transformation.
I mean, look, if you've beenaround any serious length of
time around here, you know thatwe believe in teaching the whole
counsel of God.
But not just filling minds withfacts, but shaping hearts that
(27:36):
obey.
That's really why I am committedto preaching verse by verse.
That's why our groups delve intothe scripture.
And that's why spiritual growthshould be expected, not
optional.
But the goal isn't knowledgealone, it's transformation.
Teaching them to observe allthat I've commanded you.
(27:59):
Jesus didn't say, teach themeverything I've said.
What did he say?
Teach them to obey.
Teach them to observe.
Teach them to obey.
Obedience is the primary goal ofdiscipleship.
The Christian life isn't justabout gathering facts, it's
(28:20):
about submitting to the Lordshipof Christ in our lives.
Doctrine only truly matters ifit shapes devotion.
You hear what I said?
Doctrine only truly matters ifit shapes devotion.
(28:41):
Because biblical knowledge thatdoesn't lead to godly obedience
misses DeMark.
Fundamental transformationhappens when we understand what
Jesus said, live it out infaith, and surrender to him,
yield to him.
SPEAKER_01 (28:56):
You've been listening to Foundations of
Truth, the Bible teachingministry of Pastor Timothy Mann
at Providence Church, OrmanBeach, Florida.
Providence is located at 1151West Coast of Florida.
Ormond Beach, Florida.
5654.
Providence Church.
The 50 Ministry of Pastor Timothy Madd and
Providence Church, Ormond Beach,Florida.
Providence Church is the localassembly of followers of Jesus
Christ, dedicated to helpingpeople become committed and
mature followers of JesusChrist.
Now, here's Pastor Timothy Maddteaching the word.
SPEAKER_00 (00:22):
We are in this, continuing this series that
we're calling Growing God's Way.
And it's a directional kind ofseries in the life of our church
right now, preparing for a newseason of fruitfulness.
God has been blessing us overthe last few years and grateful
for his work among us.
So Matthew 28 is where we are.
And so Matthew 28, we're goingto pick up in verse 18.
(00:42):
Going to read down through verse20.
Jesus has been crucified, diedfor our sins, and buried, and
rose from the dead.
He has shown himself alive for40 days at this time, and he is
giving his last words really tohis disciples.
And they're in Galilee andthey've gathered to hear him.
He speaks to them, beginning inverse 18.
(01:05):
The Bible says, And Jesus cameand spoke to them, saying, All
authority has been given to mein heaven and on earth.
Go, therefore, and makedisciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name ofthe Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit, teaching themto observe all things that I've
(01:26):
commanded you.
And lo, I'm with you always,even to the end of the age.
And then Matthew puts at theend, Amen.
This is God's word.
Jesus' words.
So as your pastor this morning,I really want you to hear me
clearly, especially if you are amember here, a long-term
attendee, I love this churchdearly.
I do.
(01:46):
And it's I it's not for itsbuildings, not for our programs
or events, but for you, thepeople of God.
The people that God has gatheredtogether in this family over the
years.
And at this moment, even in thelife of this church, I want you
to know I think about you duringthe week.
I just can't get you off mymind.
I wish I could sometimes.
(02:08):
I think about you during theweek.
Uh I pray for your families.
I rejoice in your joys, and Igrieve your losses.
I carry a shepherd's burden anda shepherd's joy, knowing that
God is at work among us.
I believe with all my heart, andso do the other pastors and many
(02:30):
of the deacons and trustees aswe've met and prayed.
I believe with all my heart thatHe is continuing to grow
something special in the life ofProvidence.
Not just numerically, butspiritually.
Not just attendance, butaffection for Jesus.
And I don't want us to slip intocruise control, to put it on
(02:52):
autopilot.
I want us to be a church that'smarked by movement.
I'm talking about bold,obedient, spirit-filled,
mission-driven, for the glory ofGod and for the good of our
community and the world.
Here we live on the coast ofFlorida, and the one thing I've
known over the last 19 yearsthat I've lived here is people
(03:13):
are constantly on the move,physically and spiritually.
Some come to rest, others cometo build, and many come
searching for somethingdifferent and new.
However, through all thismovement, one thing has become
really clear to me, and that isthat the church must not just be
a gathering place, but a sendingplace.
(03:34):
And in the life of Providence,we are seeing God grow his
church in many ways.
But he's not just calling usagain to grow in number, he's
calling us to mature in mission.
And if we want to grow God'sway, continue to grow God's way,
we need to always continue toreturn to the words of Jesus in
Matthew 28, verses 18 through20.
(03:54):
It's called by many people theGreat Commission.
And the Great Commission is notjust a slogan, it's not just a
church slogan, it's actually thechurch's mission.
It defines who we are and whatwe're called to do.
And so everything that theseverses reveal in Jesus' final
instructions are here rightbefore his ascension to heaven.
(04:15):
And these are his directions,his directives to his disciples,
and through them to us in hisword.
They're not optional and they'renot insignificant.
They're essential.
Every believer, every church,every local church is meant to
be shaped by these words.
I was thinking, and I have beenthinking this for a while, what
(04:38):
if, what if, what if the growththat we've been experiencing
over the last few years isn'tjust for fuller rooms or better
programs?
What if God is preparing us forgreater sending individually and
as a church?
What if he's calling us to godeeper in commitment and bolder
in witness and more intentionalin our everyday relationship?
(05:02):
So today, just for the next fewminutes, I hope we can deeply
absorb these three verses, notjust for a motivational speech,
but really for a divine command.
How we are, by God, by Jesus,sent to make a difference.
Sent to make a difference inother people's lives, sent to
(05:23):
make a difference in ourcommunity, and sent to make a
difference in the world atlarge.
And so let's go through themjust for the next little bit
with some open hearts and somewilling hands, hopefully.
So if we are sent to make adifference, what does that look
like?
How does that come about reallyin our own lives?
Well, first of all, I think aswe begin to look at verse 18, we
(05:45):
need to embrace the authoritythat sends you.
Embrace the authority that sendsus.
And I really want you to, let meread it again.
And Jesus came and spoke tothem, saying, All authority has
been given to me in heaven andon earth.
All authority has been given tome in heaven and on earth.
(06:08):
I want you to feel the weightand the wonder of that truth.
Jesus has all authority, whichhas implications for how we live
this week.
This week.
I'm talking about whether you'rewalking into your office on
Monday, whether you are sittingin traffic on Granada or US 1,
(06:29):
whether you are cleaning thehouse, whether you are watching
your child's soccer game,whether you are waiting in a
doctor's exam room, Jesus is incharge.
He's in charge.
Not your stress, not theeconomy, not your fears or your
limitations.
Jesus is risen, he is exalted,and he is seated at the Father's
right hand.
And so all things, yes, allthings are under his feet.
(06:53):
He rules the cosmos, he rulesyour, and he cares about your
calendar, and he cares aboutyour concerns.
And his authority isn't just adoctrinal truth to be affirmed,
it's a daily reality to beembraced.
And so let's stop waiting forthe perfect moment.
Let's stop waiting for theperfect plan.
Let's walk in obedience withjoyful submission, holy
(07:17):
boldness, and gospel urgency.
Because Jesus, our King, reignsand he is with us.
We're not here to go through themotions, but to proclaim Christ.
And we do it with his authority,not our own, his.
So every volunteer that greetssomeone at the door, every
(07:40):
parent or grandparent who prayswith their child at bedtime or
whenever, every member whoactually opens their Bible,
either paper Bible or a Bibleapp at a coffee shop with a
friend, all of that is adeclaration of who's in charge.
Jesus has all authority.
And he's entrusted us to go asChristians with boldness.
(08:04):
Jesus came and said to them, Allauthority in heaven and on earth
has been given to me.
So this is the foundation.
Before we, before Jesus tells usto go, as one who is sent to
make a difference, before hetells us to go, he reminds us of
who he is.
He is the one with allauthority.
That phrase, all authority, itsignifies rightful, legal, and
(08:29):
sovereign power.
Jesus holds the authority ofAlmighty God Himself, because He
is God in the flesh.
And this actually fulfillsDaniel chapter 7, verse 13
through 14, where the Son of Manis given dominion and a kingdom
that will never be destroyed.
Now that is talking also about afuture day as well.
(08:51):
You need to know it's already.
It's already and not yet, all atthe same time.
Because after his resurrection,Jesus, the Bible says in
Ephesians 1:20 through 21, Jesusis exalted to the Father's right
hand with full authority oversalvation history, over
creation, and over his church.
And so what that means is thatthe gospel is not a suggestion.
(09:15):
It's not just a suggestion, it'sactually a royal declaration.
And so we, individually and as achurch, we proclaim the good
news under the authority of theking.
We don't create the message, wedeliver it as ambassadors.
And this authority is not onlyworldwide, but it's also
personal.
(09:35):
Jesus doesn't just rule over thenations, he rules over and he
reigns over our lives.
And his authority comforts usduring our weaknesses, urges us
forward when we hesitate, wedon't walk alone, and we're not
without power.
We're not without authority.
Think of a police officerstopping traffic.
(09:57):
That officer might not haveenough strength to stop the car
physically.
I doubt they do.
But their badge and the bluelights hold the government's
authority.
If you've ever, in your rearviewmirror, saw the blue lights
flashing, you had a littlemoment of panic.
I mean, just a tiny little youknow what I'm talking about?
(10:17):
Anybody ever had the blue lightsflashing in their rearview
mirror?
You bunch of criminals.
Sinners, that's what you are.
But that's how it is with us.
We don't act in our ownstrength, but under Christ's
authority.
And this authority is personal.
It means your fears, it meansyour inadequacies, your past,
(10:38):
and your doubts are all underhis rule.
And you don't have to beperfect, but you do have to be
willing.
And so the one who has said, allauthority is his, the one who
has all authority is the one whosays, I'm sending you.
Embrace that.
Embrace it.
Not only that, Jesus tells ushere that we have to live out
(11:02):
the disciple-making mission hegave us.
We have to live out the missionhe gave us.
Go therefore, verse 19.
Go therefore and make disciplesof all the nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father,of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit.
This is my greatest hope for usas a church.
(11:23):
I hope that every person in thefamily of Providence will live
on mission.
Not just a few, but it's reallythe calling of every believer.
I imagine a church where makingdisciples isn't a special
program, it's our culture.
That means we don't just attendchurch together.
We don't just attend worshiptogether.
(11:45):
We actually walk with oneanother regularly in grace and
truth and genuine spiritualrelationship.
I hope to see discipleship, andI know it does some.
Don't get me wrong.
I'm aware of it does some.
I hope to see discipleshiphappening in our kitchens, in
our backyards, all over, andover coffee on Monday mornings
or lunch on Thursdays orwherever it is.
(12:08):
Listen, if you know Jesus asSavior and Lord, then you are
ready to help someone else knowhim better.
You are.
You don't need to be atheologian to be obedient.
Just available.
Just available.
God is already doing somethingsignificant among us, and I
believe he is inviting us toembrace it entirely.
(12:31):
I'm talking about a culture offaithful, personal, and
intentional disciple making.
Let's not just talk about it.
Let's live it.
Disciple making isn't just formissionaries overseas.
I mean, I'm grateful that Toddand Christy and the team in
Rome, Italy are doing that.
It was great to hear theirreport a few months back.
(12:54):
Praise God for that.
And all the other missionariesthat we support and are a part
of.
Disciple making isn't just formissionaries overseas, it's for
everyday believers like you andme right here in our Providence
family.
It's for moms sharing the gospelwith their kids on the drive to
school.
It's for retirees who use theirtime and their wisdom to invest
(13:17):
in others.
It's for teenagers who boldlyinvite their friends to come
hear about Jesus.
So this is not an optionaladdition to the Christian life.
It's the heart of it.
It's the heart of it.
The mission is central to who weare.
Our kids' ministry is not justchildcare.
It's planting seeds of faith,it's teaching them the gospel.
(13:39):
Our BFGs aren't simplycommunity, they're training
grounds for discipleship.
This and on and on.
This is our identity because itis our Savior's final command.
Go therefore and make disciplesof all nations.
The central command here is makedisciples.
Evangelism and conversion areobviously vital, it's part of
it.
(13:59):
But the goal is discipleship.
Jesus didn't say make converts.
He said what?
Make disciples.
Disciples.
Creating lifelong followers ofJesus.
In Jesus' time, when he's sayingthis, a disciple was more than
just a student.
A disciple actually attachedtheir life to their teacher.
(14:22):
Jesus said in Luke chapter 6,verse 40, he said, everyone when
he is fully trained will be likehis teacher.
Wow.
And so the word go suggestswhat?
That's real deep, isn't it?
You gotta be a Greek scholar tofigure that one out.
The word go suggests movement.
(14:44):
It suggests action.
It suggests purpose.
Now, disciple making involvesrisk.
It involves love.
It involves buildingrelationships.
It takes place in everydaysettings, kitchens, classrooms,
coffee shops, porches, golfcourses, you name it.
And it isn't ostentatious, butit is impactful.
(15:07):
Discipleship, and hear me wellon this, discipleship isn't just
about doing a Bible study.
I bet we already know more ofthe Bible than we actually do.
Discipleship isn't just moreBible study, it's actually about
helping others become more likeJesus by walking closely with
Him yourself.
(15:29):
With Him yourself.
It involves showing them whatgenuine faith looks like in
daily life.
How you pray, how you forgive,how you struggle, and how you
keep trusting through trials andcrisis and hardship.
(15:50):
You're showing people whatgenuine faith looks like in
daily life.
And it's personal because itrequires your life.
It's shared because we grow besttogether.
I mean, imagine.
Imagine a mom who starts readingthe Bible with her teenage
daughter, or a man who beginspraying regularly with a
(16:12):
coworker or a friend or a buddy.
One, maybe one who is new to thefaith, the other more mature.
And over time they growtogether.
And something happens.
A spouse becomes curious.
A neighbor listens in.
A son or daughter starts askingquestions.
And eventually, friends andfamily who were once far from
(16:33):
God began to respond.
Because that's what disciplemaking can look like.
It's faithful, it's simple, andit's personal.
And when it happens, I'm tellingyou, when it happens, entire
households and entire circles offriends can be changed for
eternity.
And so if you've never discipledsomeone, don't overthink it.
(16:57):
Just get started.
Just get started.
How?
Well, you could start by sharingyour story and how Jesus has
actually changed your life.
Now, if you got nothing to talkabout, maybe you don't need to
be sharing that story.
So I didn't get saved, you know,late in life.
I was young.
(17:18):
Okay, well, how's having Jesusin your life changed you in the
last year?
Let's not go back to theprofession of faith point.
You might not have been a drunkor a drug addict or living out
in the world or something likethat and had this miraculous,
you know, conversion.
You might have been converted asa child, but how much growth
have you seen from a year ago?
(17:38):
How has Jesus changed your lifelately?
What's he walked you through?
You can share that.
You begin to ask a friend or afamily member or a coworker,
anybody you want to ask.
Ask them how they're doingspiritually.
Maybe open the Bible with them.
Read a gospel passage with them.
Read a psalm with them.
(17:59):
Pray with them, even if it'ssimple.
Because it's not about beingperfect.
It's about being present.
It's about being intentional.
Jesus, you don't have to haveall the answers.
Just willingness.
Jesus didn't say, disciple onceyou're trained.
(18:22):
No.
He said what?
Go.
He said, go.
And your obedience, even if itfeels small, can actually be the
spark that God uses to changesomeone's life.
And so here's the challenge.
Ask God this week to revealsomeone in your life who needs
(18:44):
help growing in their faith.
It could be a child, it could bea teenager, it could be a
friend, a coworker, a familymember, a neighbor, whatever.
Once he reveals that, I promiseyou, if you begin praying and
asking God to reveal that toyou, he will.
If you're not hard-headed andsay, okay, I hear your answer,
(19:06):
but I don't like it.
No.
This is open hands, open heartwhen he does.
If you'll have enough gumptionto pray and ask God to reveal
someone to you, and he does,take the initiative.
Send them a text.
Give them a call.
Set up a time to meet.
(19:27):
Or invite them out to studyGod's Word with you.
Or begin to pray.
Begin to have that conversation.
And as you walk with them, don'tjust help them grow.
Also look for opportunities toshare the gospel.
This person might not be aChristian, might not be saved.
Ask them where they stand withJesus.
Invite them to trust Him.
And remember, it's not your jobto save anybody.
(19:48):
That's the work of the HolySpirit.
Your role is to be faithful.
Your role is to speak truth andlove and to point them to the
Savior.
Discipleship doesn't need astage, it doesn't need a
platform.
It just needs your yes.
Don't wait.
Start this week.
(20:09):
Live out the mission.
Well, if we're going to be sentto make a difference, we also
have to identify with Jesuspublicly and help others do the
same.
Second part of verse 19.
It says, go therefore, ofcourse, the first part, go
therefore and make disciples ofall the nations.
Second part, baptizing them inthe name of the Father and of
(20:30):
the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
I'll tell you, there are a fewmoments, I think, that better
capture the essence of thegospel than baptism.
As a matter of fact, you see thewater is in the baptistry, and
then at the beginning of thesecond service, we're baptizing.
On September 14th, we're goingto have another ocean baptism.
I praise God for that.
(20:50):
And watching God, watchingsomeone go under the water in
surrender and emerge into thearms of a rejoicing church
family, that's sacred.
It's sacred, it's powerful.
And it never loses its impact.
Because baptism isn't only asymbol, it's actually a
(21:13):
declaration.
Every time we do it, it's adeclaration that Jesus saves and
transforms lives.
So I just need to say, if youfelt that baptism might be your
next step, I would be honored.
I want you to know, I would behonored, and others of us would,
to help you to walk with youthrough it.
(21:34):
You don't have to figure it outalone.
We're here for you.
Let's take that step together infaith and in obedience.
And so, at Providence, overthese last 15 years, we've
repeatedly witnessed the powerof baptism.
We've witnessed that a lot thisyear.
Praise God.
When someone publicly commits totheir faith in Jesus.
(21:58):
And what happens is it actuallyimpacts more than just their
personal story.
It actually spreads throughfamilies.
It ignites conversations amongfriends.
It renews faith in others aswell.
And it serves as a reminder thatGod continues to save and change
lives.
Every single baptism proclaimsJesus is Lord.
(22:22):
Everyone.
My goal, my prayer is to makethis church family and this
place we're taking this step iscommon.
It's celebrated, it'sencouraged.
It's where each of us helpothers find the courage to say
yes to Jesus both publicly andjoyfully.
Baptizing them in the name ofthe Father, Son, and the Holy
(22:44):
Spirit.
Baptism is more than a ritual.
It's actually the first step ofobedience in the Christian life.
It's how believers publiclyidentify with Jesus, symbolizing
death to sin, resurrection withChrist, and new life.
And that Trinitarian formulamight sound theological, but it
(23:06):
holds a deep personalsignificance.
Because when we're baptized inthe name of the Father, of the
Son and the Holy Spirit, we'reexpressing that my whole life
belongs to the God who createdme, the God who rescued me
through Jesus, and is nowtransforming me by the Holy
Spirit.
That's what you're saying.
(23:26):
It's more than just a ritual, itis a complete surrender to the
God who invites us into hisfamily and grants us a new
identity as our own.
And baptism reminds us, andeverybody else that witnesses
it, that we do not belong toourselves, but to Christ.
It's a visible statement thatour lives are no longer ours,
(23:47):
but surrendered to Jesus'Lordship.
And so through baptism, we showa new identity that we are now
sons and daughters of God.
And we're welcomed into this newcommunity, the family of faith.
And we're given a new purpose,and that's to live for his glory
and make him known.
But baptism isn't the finishline, it's the starting point of
(24:10):
a life lived openly for Jesus.
It's the moment when we publiclydeclare, I belong to him.
So, are you ready to berecognized as a follower of
Christ?
Regardless of the cost.
Regardless of the cost.
(24:32):
Jesus said, Whoever acknowledgesme before men, I will
acknowledge before my Father inheaven.
And so, in a world that oftenkeeps faith very private and
doesn't want it out in the open,baptism is a very bold
declaration saying that Jesus ismy Savior, my King, and my Lord.
(24:53):
So here's my challenge.
If you've been delaying baptism,ask yourself why.
What's holding you back?
Fear?
Uncertainty?
Right?
Don't let anything stand in theway of obeying Jesus.
(25:19):
And so, if you've already beenbaptized, then let me ask you
this question (25:22):
Who are you helping to take that next step?
Because God might actually callyou to walk alongside someone
else as they take this publicact of faith.
Let's be a church that doesn'tpostpone obedience across the
board.
But a church that moves quicklytoward it.
(25:45):
So identify with Jesus and helpothers to do the same.
It's part of being sent to makea difference.
Verse 20.
First part of verse 20.
Teaching them to observe allthings that I've commanded you.
So if we're going to be sentourselves to make a difference,
what has to happen?
(26:05):
Well, we have to commit to thegrowth that transforms you.
Commit to the growth thattransforms you.
I have to tell you what, what Iwant for Providence Church is
not just that we would be achurch that knows the Bible,
although that's incrediblyimportant.
But not that we would just be achurch that knows the Bible, but
(26:28):
that we would live it andbreathe it and walk it out in
every part of our lives.
I want us to be a people whomove beyond agreement with Jesus
into actual obedience to him.
Where his commands shape ourconversations, where his
commands shape our decisions andour daily rhythms.
(26:50):
Because this is where real poweris.
That's when trust deepens inmarriages and strongholds in our
lives begin to crumble.
And family and friends actuallystart asking, why are you
different?
Are you different?
(27:12):
I'm praying not just for smarterChristians, but obedient ones.
Not just for more teaching, butfor transformation.
I mean, look, if you've beenaround any serious length of
time around here, you know thatwe believe in teaching the whole
counsel of God.
But not just filling minds withfacts, but shaping hearts that
(27:36):
obey.
That's really why I am committedto preaching verse by verse.
That's why our groups delve intothe scripture.
And that's why spiritual growthshould be expected, not
optional.
But the goal isn't knowledgealone, it's transformation.
Teaching them to observe allthat I've commanded you.
(27:59):
Jesus didn't say, teach themeverything I've said.
What did he say?
Teach them to obey.
Teach them to observe.
Teach them to obey.
Obedience is the primary goal ofdiscipleship.
The Christian life isn't justabout gathering facts, it's
(28:20):
about submitting to the Lordshipof Christ in our lives.
Doctrine only truly matters ifit shapes devotion.
You hear what I said?
Doctrine only truly matters ifit shapes devotion.
(28:41):
Because biblical knowledge thatdoesn't lead to godly obedience
misses DeMark.
Fundamental transformationhappens when we understand what
Jesus said, live it out infaith, and surrender to him,
yield to him.
SPEAKER_01 (28:56):
You've been listening to Foundations of
Truth, the Bible teachingministry of Pastor Timothy Mann
at Providence Church, OrmanBeach, Florida.
Providence is located at 1151West Coast of Florida.
Ormond Beach, Florida.
5654.
Providence Church.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com