Summary
Highlights
Apostle Joshua Selman begins by emphasizing the necessity of being intentional in one's spiritual life. He highlights that spiritual progress is the most critical factor for overall life advancement, comparing it to a tree's roots—if the spiritual life dwindles, all other aspects will eventually suffer. He warns against downplaying spiritual matters, referencing examples of those who ignored God and faced an eventual downfall, versus those who invested in their spiritual lives and saw ultimate triumph.
Prayer is presented as the first vital force. Selman notes that while many pray, the challenge lies in praying effectively to achieve results, citing the apostles' request to Jesus: 'Teach us to pray.' He outlines four assignments of prayer: for growth and transformation (Luke 9:29), spiritual legislation (Job 22:28), warfare and intercession (Ephesians 6:12), and obtaining requests and petitions (Mark 11:24). He stresses that a decline in prayer life inevitably leads to a decline in spiritual growth and encourages believers to fight prayerlessness.
The second force is the Word of God, commended as capable of building up believers and granting an inheritance among the sanctified (Acts 20:32). Selman explains that the Word provides wisdom (2 Timothy 3:15), which is superior to worldly or age-based wisdom and is justified by results. He categorizes the Bible's contents into promises, principles, and prophecies, urging believers to diligently study it to find answers, direction, and stability for their lives, especially in challenging areas like health, relationships, and finances.
Discipleship, defined as submitting to structural mentoring and learning, is the third crucial force. Every apostle was once a disciple, and Jesus himself submitted to learning. Selman challenges believers to graduate from being mere 'members' to active 'students' of the Word and their spiritual leaders. He references Acts 2:42, which describes the early church's steadfastness in apostles' doctrine, and Acts 19:1-4, where Paul enlightened disciples with limited understanding. He encourages humility and a willingness to learn from those with proven results, emphasizing that discipleship helps in overcoming life's challenges.
The final force is service, with two dimensions: service in the house of God and service as a witness. Selman explains that active service is essential for certain levels of spiritual growth and cannot be substituted. He highlights that service to God attracts divine blessings and discernment (Malachi 3:17-18). He encourages believers to serve with revelation, commitment, and a positive attitude, rejecting complaining. He uses examples such as Elisha's double portion through service and the unexpected blessings that can come through dedicated service, stressing that service elevates individuals and brings God's favor.
Apostle Selman concludes with a powerful call to prayer, urging attendees to seek grace for consistency in prayer, diligence in engaging with the Word, submission to discipleship, and commitment to service. He then delivers prophetic declarations, commanding open doors, divine surprises, restoration from past losses, and deliverance from negative influences and prayerlessness. He also prays for financial breakthroughs, emphasizing the importance of prospering to further God's kingdom. The sermon ends with an altar call for salvation and rededication, inviting individuals to commit their lives to Jesus and begin their journey of flourishing.