Summary
Pastor Ben Orchard emphasized the importance of godliness as the greatest asset in ministry at Valley Bible Church. He highlighted the church’s mission-focused, multi-generational, and next-generational nature. Pastor Ben referenced 2 Timothy 3:12-17 and 1 Timothy 4:6-8 to underscore the necessity of godliness over giftedness or programs. He stressed that godliness is a supernatural work of God, requiring prayer, the Word, the Spirit, and faith. Pastor Ben concluded that everyone can excel in godliness, and it is essential for all believers, not just leaders, to pursue holiness and righteousness.
Action Items
Pursue godliness through prayer, the Word of God, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and worship.
Outline
Valley Bible Church’s Mission and Vision
- Ben Orchard introduces the theme of the morning service, emphasizing the importance of the phrase, “Yet not I, but Christ in me.”
- He highlights the core values of Valley Bible Church, including being mission-focused, multi-generational, and next-generational.
- Ben discusses the concept of “The VBCs,” which stands for basic elements that the church believes in and practices.
- The church is preparing to move into the book of 2 Timothy, focusing on passing the baton of faith to the next generation.
The Importance of Godliness in Ministry
- Ben emphasizes that the greatest asset in ministry is godliness, not giftedness, programs, or intelligence.
- He shares his experience of speaking at a pastor’s conference in the Balkans, where he stressed the importance of godliness.
- Ben begins to read from 2 Timothy 3:12-17, highlighting the persecution faced by those who live godly lives.
- The congregation is encouraged to continue in the things they have learned and to be convinced of the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ.
The Role of Godliness in Church and Personal Life
- Ben explains that the church is about changing lives, not just transferring information.
- He discusses the importance of theology in transforming people into the image of Christ.
- Ben contrasts physical discipline with spiritual discipline, emphasizing that godliness is profitable for all things.
- He reads from 1 Timothy 4:6-8, highlighting the importance of discipline for the purpose of godliness.
The Nature of Godliness and Its Practical Outcome
- Ben defines godliness as a practical outcome of faith, meaning a reverence and devotion to God.
- He explains that godliness involves becoming like God, which is the essence of what it means to be godly.
- Ben discusses the importance of godliness for all members of the church, not just leaders.
- He emphasizes that godliness is an asset for all Christians, not just pastors or those in ministry.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Godliness
- Ben explains that godliness is the work of the Holy Spirit.
- He discusses the importance of prayer, the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and faith in God for developing godliness.
- Ben emphasizes that godliness is a supernatural calling and requires an active trust and reliance on God.
- He highlights the importance of worshiping God in all aspects of life, not just during church services.
The Challenge of Legalism and the Power of the Gospel
- Ben warns against relying on religious systems to make people godly, emphasizing that the Gospel is the only power that can change lives.
- He discusses the importance of the Gospel in making people godly and the dangers of false teachers who hold to a form of godliness without the power of the Gospel.
- Ben explains that the power of godliness is the power of the Gospel, which surpasses the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.
- He emphasizes that godliness is a process of being transformed into the likeness of Christ, which is the work of God.
The Call to Holiness and Righteousness
- Ben discusses the importance of holiness, righteousness, and godliness in the lives of believers.
- He explains that holiness means being set apart and distinct from sin, as God is distinct from His creation.
- Ben emphasizes that believers are called to live a life that is separate from the world and sin, growing in sanctification.
- He highlights the importance of being prepared for every good work and the role of godliness in making believers useful to God.
The Role of Faith and Prayer in Godliness
- Ben explains that godliness cannot be achieved without faith in God and prayer to God.
- He discusses the importance of prayer as a means of developing godliness and a declaration of dependence on God.
- Ben emphasizes that prayer involves worship and gratitude, and it is a way of asking God for help and guidance.
- He highlights the importance of the Word of God in developing godliness as it teaches, corrects, and trains believers in righteousness.
The Work of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification
- Ben explains that the Holy Spirit is the power behind godliness and sanctification.
- He discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in regenerating believers and making Christ known to the world.
- Ben emphasizes that the Holy Spirit transforms believers into the likeness of Christ.
- He highlights the importance of cooperating with the Holy Spirit in developing godliness and holiness.
The Final Call to Godliness and Holiness
- Ben concludes by emphasizing that godliness is the greatest asset for the church and for individual believers.
- He highlights the importance of being prepared for every good work and the role of godliness in making believers useful to God.
- Ben discusses the importance of faith, prayer, the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and worship in developing godliness.
- He concludes with a prayer for the congregation to be sanctified and made holy, emphasizing that it is God’s work and not their own.
Sept. 21 bulletin, song lyrics, sermon notes, and Life Group questions