The Call to Priesthood, Part 1

In this message, Jim emphasizes the importance of every believer embracing their calling as priests. He underscores that being a priest is about fostering a special relationship with God and serving Him out of that relationship.

Jim uses three Old Testament examples to illustrate the results of priestly ministry: Jehoiada, who helped crown Joash the rightful king; Hilkiah, who presented the lost Book of Law to King Josiah, leading to revival; and the priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant into the Jordan River, demonstrating God's authority and leading the people forward.

Jim concludes by encouraging believers to embrace their priestly roles by reading and studying the Word, praying, gathering together, serving others, listening to God's voice, and obeying His commands. He reminds everyone that God wants us to be fulfilled in our relationship with Him and serve Him wholeheartedly.

Outline:

1. Introduction:
   1. Reading of Scripture: Exodus 8:1, Exodus 19:6, 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:5-6
   2. Prayer
   3. Explanation that this message is what the Lord laid on his heart
2. Serving God as Priests:
   1. Being a priest means having a special relationship with God and serving Him out of that relationship
   2. Every believer is called to be a priest
3. Old Testament Examples of Priestly Ministry:
   1. Jehoiada:
      1. Protected the rightful heir, Joash
      2. Placed Joash on the throne
      3. Equipped the people to support the king
   2. Hilkiah:
      1. Found the Book of the Law and brought it to King Josiah
      2. Josiah's response to the Word led to revival
   3. Priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant:
      1. Priests carried the testimony of God's kingship
      2. Their obedience and faith led to the Jordan River parting
      3. Priests serve as forerunners, demonstrating God's power and leading others to follow
4. Embracing Our Priestly Calling:
   1. We are all called to be priests in the New Testament
   2. God wants us to be active in our priesthood
   3. How to be a priest:
      1. Read and study the Word
      2. Pray for guidance and direction
      3. Gather together with other believers
      4. Serve others as opportunities arise
      5. Listen attentively to God's voice
      6. Obey God's commands promptly
5. Conclusion:
   1. When God touches us, we cannot remain the same
   2. We are called to adapt and become who God desires us to be
   3. Prayer for God to help us fulfill our calling as priests