Summary
This sermon explores the book of Haggai, focusing on the theme of building what matters to God rather than building our own brand or personal comfort. Pastor Chris uses the historical context of the Israelites returning from Babylonian exile to rebuild the temple, but stopping the work for 15 years due to political pressure and opposition. The message emphasizes that when we face resistance, we often shift our focus from God's priorities to our own comfort and security. The sermon celebrates what God has accomplished through Presence Church in its first 12 weeks while challenging the congregation to maintain focus on kingdom priorities. The pastor shares that building what matters always takes longer than expected, but God finishes everything He calls us to start. The message concludes with a vision for 2026 including community groups, discipleship intensives, next generation ministry, global missions, and church planting.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we thank You for bringing us to this place and time. We ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to set aside our own agendas and distractions, and make us receptive to Your voice. Lord, we pray that You would speak to each person here according to their specific needs and circumstances. Give us wisdom to understand how to apply these truths to our daily lives. We invite Your Holy Spirit to guide our discussion and help us grow closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one project or goal you started with great enthusiasm but then got distracted from or put on hold? What caused you to lose momentum?
Key Verses
Haggai 1:12-15
Ephesians 3:14-21
2 Kings 25
Ezra 6
Questions
How do you think the Israelites felt when they had to stop building the temple for 15 years due to political pressure? Can you relate to having your plans interrupted by external circumstances?
Pastor Chris mentioned that 'obedience always precedes abundance.' Can you share an example from your life where you experienced God's provision after choosing obedience?
What are some ways that modern believers might be 'building their own homes' instead of focusing on God's house and kingdom priorities?
The sermon emphasized that 'the danger isn't rebellion, it's distraction.' What are the biggest distractions in your life that pull you away from what God has called you to do?
How does the principle that 'spiritual alignment brings spiritual vitality' play out in your personal relationship with God?
What encourages you about the fact that 'God finishes everything He calls us to start,' especially when you're facing challenges or setbacks?
Pastor Chris shared his enthusiasm for this season of ministry despite the challenges. What helps you maintain enthusiasm for God's work in your life when things get difficult?
Looking at the vision for Presence Church in 2026 (community groups, discipleship intensives, next generation ministry, global missions, church planting), which area most excites you and why?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you may have shifted focus from God's priorities to your own comfort or security. Take one specific step to realign your priorities with what God is calling you to build in His kingdom. This could involve your time, resources, relationships, or service. Pray daily asking God to 'spark your enthusiasm' for His work and to help you stay focused on building what matters to Him.
Key Takeaways
Building what matters always takes longer than you think, but God finishes everything He calls us to start
Obedience always precedes abundance - we must align with God's priorities before experiencing His provision
The danger for believers isn't rebellion but distraction - we can drift from kingdom priorities to personal comfort
Spiritual alignment brings spiritual vitality - when we focus on God's work, we experience renewed energy and purpose
God loves to build His greatest works in imperfect conditions through imperfect people
Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for the reminder that You are faithful to complete the work You begin in us and through us. Help us to resist the temptation to build our own brand or focus solely on our personal comfort. Instead, give us hearts that are aligned with Your kingdom priorities. When we face opposition, discouragement, or distraction, remind us that You are with us in the work and that You will finish what You have started. Spark our enthusiasm for the things that matter to You - reaching the lost, discipling believers, and building Your church. May we be faithful to build what matters, trusting that You will provide everything we need for the work You've called us to. In Jesus' name, Amen.
