Sermon: Chosen to Be Sent Out
- Michael Hopkins
- Mar 22
- 3 min read
By Archbishop Victor K. Phiri of Jehovah Saints Church Malawi
Shared by Minister Michael Hopkins
Scripture Reference
Matthew 10:2-4 (ESV): "These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him."
Introduction
In this passage, we see Jesus selecting twelve ordinary men to be His apostles. These individuals were not chosen for their qualifications, wealth, or social standing. Instead, they were chosen because Jesus saw their potential for transformation and their willingness to serve Him.
Reflection: Would You Have Chosen Them?
Reviewing the list of the twelve disciples, one might question their suitability for the monumental task of announcing salvation to the world.
They were fishermen, a tax collector, and even a zealot—a diverse group with no apparent qualifications for spiritual leadership.
Key Question: Would we, in our human judgment, have chosen any of them for such a task?
Why Did Jesus Choose Them?
Not for Their Qualifications: Jesus did not appoint them based on their skills or track record. Instead, He chose them to transform them into something new.
To Equip Them:
Jesus called them to change their hearts and minds, equipping them to minister in His Name.
Their pasts did not matter. What mattered was their willingness to let Jesus shape them.
Judas’s Failure:
Judas Iscariot, though chosen, failed because he did not allow Jesus to change him.
This reminds us that being called is not enough; transformation and obedience are essential.
The Privilege of Serving God
The disciples had the privilege of becoming the leaders of the early church. Despite facing persecution and violent deaths, they remained faithful and now share in Christ's eternal glory.
Application: What About Us?
Key Message: No matter how unqualified or unlikely you think you are to serve God, He can use you if you let Him.
Let God Call You:
Be open to His call, even if it seems beyond your abilities.
Allow God to Change You:
Transformation is key. Your identity is shaped by the spiritual master you serve.
Be Willing to Be Used:
God equips those He calls. Trust Him to prepare you for the task.
Endure for His Glory:
Serving God may come with challenges, but the reward is eternal glory with Him.
Closing Scripture
Romans 8:30 (ESV): "And those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified."
Final Encouragement
Let the Lord call you, change you, and equip you for His glory. Whatever the cost, remember that serving Him leads to sharing in His eternal glory.
Conclusion: Join Us in Bringing Hope to the Homeless
At Jehovah Saints, we are committed to being the hands and feet of Christ by providing safe shelters, warm meals, and hope to those in need. Our mission to build homeless shelters around the world is inspired by Jesus’ words: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
This is more than just a project—it’s a movement of love, compassion, and transformation. With your support, we can expand this mission and provide a place of refuge for countless individuals and families who are struggling. Together, we can make a difference and shine the light of Christ in the darkest corners of the world.
How You Can Help:
Pray for our mission and for the homeless communities we serve.
Spread the Word by sharing this initiative with your friends, family, and church community.
Donate to help us build more shelters and provide essential resources for those in need.
Every donation, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to changing lives. Click the button below to make a contribution and be part of this life-changing mission.
Thank you for your generosity and for standing with Jehovah Saints as we answer God’s call to care for the homeless. Together, we can build not only shelters but also hope, dignity, and a brighter future for those in need.
God Bless!
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