Secrets of the Sower: Fallow Ground

the Church of Etna & Hanover Center

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Secrets of the Sower: Fallow Ground

July 21, 2024 • Chris Green • Mark 4:1–8, Hosea 10:12

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This message concludes a three-part series on the Parable of the Sower, focusing on how to respond when there's a gap between God's promises and our current experiences. The scriptures encourage us to "break up the fallow ground" by expanding our expectations and faith to align with God's promises, rather than settling for limited perspectives or explanations for why God's word isn't manifesting in our lives. Pastor Chris emphasizes the power of words and prayer in cultivating a harvest of faith and experiencing God's abundant promises.

Key Points:

- There is often a gap between God's promises and our current experiences

- We should not try to explain away this gap or place blame, but instead "break up the fallow ground"

- Breaking up fallow ground means stepping beyond our familiar boundaries and expectations

- We can plow to the edges of God's promises through our words and prayers

- God fulfills His promises by giving Himself, not just by sending detached blessings

- Our church is not limited by its size or location, but empowered by God's promises

Scripture Reference:

- Mark 4 (Parable of the Sower)

- Hosea 10:12 "Break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord..."

Stories:

- The story of the Brick Church in Etna discovering they owned more land than they thought, illustrating how we often live within limited expectations when God has given us more

- The poem by Lawrence Tribble about one person awakening others, used to illustrate the concept of revival

- The account of a church closing its doors permanently, contrasted with the promise of abundant harvest in the Parable of the Sower

Do as Jesus Did

November 17, 2024 • Chris Green • John 14:12

In a world of constant change, we find ourselves in need of spiritual recalibration. This message reminds us of our core calling as apprentices of Jesus: to be with Him, become like Him, and crucially, to do as He did. John 14:12 challenges us with Jesus' words: 'Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater works than these.' This isn't just about belief, but about action. We're called to move beyond being mere 'hearers of the word' to become 'doers,' as James exhorts. By asking 'What Would Jesus Do?' in every situation and acting on it, we can participate in continuing Christ's work on earth, empowered by the same Holy Spirit that raised Him from the dead. This recalibration invites us to live out our faith boldly, trusting that God has equipped us for greater things than we might imagine.

Become Like Jesus

November 10, 2024 • Chris Green • Galatians 4:19

In our spiritual journey, we're called to become like Jesus, not just to find our 'true selves.' This countercultural message challenges us to look upward rather than inward. The apostle Paul's words in Galatians 4:19 remind us that our goal is to have 'Christ formed in us.' This isn't about self-improvement, but about a profound transformation where we're reshaped into Jesus' likeness. We're invited to consider: are we actively participating in this formation process? The path of Jesus is presented as the way to become fully human, reversing the curse of Adam's fall. By 'putting on Christ,' we're not losing ourselves, but uncovering who we truly are meant to be. This journey of becoming like Jesus isn't about perfection, but about allowing God's Spirit to chip away at what doesn't belong, revealing the masterpiece He created us to be.

Be With Jesus (Practicing the Way)

November 3, 2024 • Chris Green • John 15:1–8, Galatians 5:22–23

Chris explores the concept of "Practicing the Way" of Jesus, emphasizing that being a Christian is not just about holding beliefs, but about a way of living and being with Jesus. The focus is on the importance of abiding in Christ, which is made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the challenges of staying connected to Jesus in a world full of distractions and highlights the importance of spiritual habits or rhythms as means of resistance against worldly influences. Key Points: - Being a Christian is about a way of living, not just holding beliefs - Abiding in Christ is essential and made possible through the Holy Spirit - Spiritual habits and rhythms are crucial for maintaining connection with God - The enemy of abiding is hurry, busyness, and distraction - Spiritual dry seasons are normal and can be opportunities for growth - The fruits of the Spirit are evidence of abiding in Christ Scripture Reference: - John 15:1-5 (The Vine and the Branches) - Galatians 5:22-23 (The Fruit of the Spirit)