The Never-Ending Story

Sermon Notes, April 15, 2012

Ralph Branch

Pastor Ralph’s message Sunday was titled “The Never Ending Story.”  In the movie, the boy closes the book he’s been reading and finds out he’s the main character and he’s in charge of saving the world.  YOU are in God’s Book.  Who’s writing the story? 

God has chosen YOU to be the star of your story.  He wants you to be you.  In John 14:9-12, Jesus tells us that anyone who has faith in Him will do even greater things than He did.  Jesus is a ‘super-star’ who is not selfish: He has blessed us so we can be a blessing.  There’s a time to lead (be the star), and a time to follow (be part of the supporting cast).  Take control of your life; are you willing to play the lead in the story of your life being written by God?  You say, “I can’t act.”  You don’t have to!

Don’t act.  If you’re struggling, don’t pretend you’re not.  If the enemy takes it all, don’t pretend.  Be honest.  Be you.  God knows you—and so will everyone else.  What you do affects your role.

Don’t be camera-shy.  2 Timothy 2:15-16 tells us to present ourselves to God as workmen who correctly handle the word of truth.  Love God, and love those around you.  The plan has been laid.  God created you so people can look at you and see Him.  I’m weak, but in Christ I’m strong.    Share the truth.  Focus on loving and trusting others and God will work. Galatians 2:20 tells us that Christ lives in us.  Stand in the trenches: whatever He wants me to do, I’ll do.  God told Moses, the stutterer, that he would be like a god to Pharaoh when Moses told Pharaoh what God was going to do.

Don’t let the past hinder you.  God forgives.  God will restore when we love Him.  Remember how Peter denied the Lord three times? (Luke 22:56) When Jesus was resurrected, Jesus asked him three times, “Do you love me?”  He told Peter to “Feed my sheep.”  Even though Peter had failed him, God restored him and used him mightily.  We are called to love past what we see or think.  (1 Corinthians 13)

Your never-ending story is being written.  Play the role God planned for you; be the you in which others can see Him.