Below is an example of how to use the PPGR Preaching System to save time crafting focused, clear messages that are rooted in a specific text, address a problem with the human condition, tether the text and theme to the cross, and provide redemptive application that is grace-driven and Spirit-empowered.
Theme: There is sanctifying power in simple reminders. We see this in Paul’s mentoring relationship with Timothy.
Keywords: remind, reminder, reminding
[P1] Like Paul and Timothy, part of spiritual mentoring is simply reminding mentees of fundamental, foundational realities.
We see numerous reminders in 2 Timothy 1:3-7.
- I am consciously and regularly praying for you.
- I am for you.
- I see evidence of a living faith in you.
- You are His.
- You are gifted and have a role to play in the kingdom.
- Others have recognized these gifts.
- The Spirit of God indwells you.
- You are not alone.
[P2] We need reminders because we easily forget the most important things—especially when there are tears.
We lose sight of the Father's wisdom, kindness, goodness, and affection.
We assume the hard we face means we are forgotten and forsaken.
It may help us to be reminded of Moses' reminder to the Israelites as they stood at the doorstep of the promised land in Deuteronomy 31:6, where he says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
How can we be sure that this promise is for us?
[G] Remembering God's act of mercy through the cross is how we know we are not forgotten or forsaken.
All that could cause us to be rejected was removed from your record, being absorbed into the body of Jesus as a propitiation before the law.
The penalty of sin has been extinguished forever.
The cross was the penultimate expression of his committed, covenant love.
We have not been saved primarily to work for God but to be loved by God.
Remember, it was not when we were righteous that Jesus died for us. It was when we were unrighteous.
Furthermore, his blood does not cover merely our past unrighteousness but our present and future sins as well.
This is amazing grace.
[R] Now, in response to the cross, we are invited to remember for ourselves and be people who remind others about the wonder of God's grace that saves and sustains.
So, remember and rest. You are not forgotten or forsaken.
Remind your mentees of this core reality, whether they are children, spouses, friends, etc., and rejoice together.
Send texts and emails. DMs. Phone calls. Speak of grace at dinner and over coffee. Whatever it takes to remind each other of the wonder of the cross and celebrate the gospel!
If you haven't yet received God's grace in Jesus but want to, your next step is simple. Confess your unrighteousness before God and receive the gift of righteousness from God in Jesus.
Confessing is what we call repentance.
Receiving is what we call faith.
So, believe now... and Sunday after Sunday, day in and day out, remember what the blood of Jesus says. You are not forgotten. You are not forsaken. Even in the tears, you are forgiven, accepted, and dearly loved, now and forever.
There is sanctifying power in simple reminders.
Cross-Tethered Preaching is devoted to helping pastors preach the fullness of God’s grace in Jesus. Subscribe for free, weekly preaching helps.
When you’re ready to check out the complete PPGR Preaching System, feel free to get more information here.
Comments ()