What's My Extra Mile? | Go The Extra Mile | Pastor Nathan Grams

Go the Extra Mile: Understanding Kingdom Ethics

Introduction to the Series

• The final message of a series titled "Go the Extra Mile" emphasizes an overarching theme for the year, focusing on attitudes towards life and God's intentions.

• The discussion is rooted in the Sermon on the Mount, specifically Matthew chapters 5, 6, and 7. The aim is to highlight Jesus' teachings regarding going beyond expectations.

Historical Context of Jesus' Teachings

• Jesus lived during Roman occupation, which created frustration among people who hoped for a revolutionary leader. Many believed he was the prophesied Messiah.

• Despite attempts to crown him as king, Jesus clarified that his mission was not political but spiritual—addressing humanity's deeper issues like sin. He stated, "My kingdom is not of this world."

Key Teachings from the Sermon on the Mount

• In Matthew 5:38-41, Jesus contrasts traditional justice ("an eye for an eye") with a new ethic that encourages turning the other cheek and going beyond what is required. This introduces the concept of going the extra mile.

• Roman soldiers could compel civilians to carry their gear for one mile; however, Jesus instructs them to carry it two miles instead—challenging societal norms and expectations.

Embracing Kingdom Ethics

• Carrying a soldier's gear might feel unfair due to its association with oppression; yet Jesus teaches that true kingdom ethics involve exceeding basic requirements and embracing challenges positively.

• The second mile represents opportunities for personal growth and divine experiences; it's where miracles can happen in one's journey with God. Life becomes incomplete without this commitment to go further than expected.

Personal Reflections on Fairness

• The speaker shares personal anecdotes about fairness within family dynamics as a firstborn child, illustrating how perceptions of fairness can shape our understanding of life’s challenges. Life isn't always fair by human standards; thus we must adopt a broader perspective aligned with kingdom values rather than mere fairness metrics.

• Acknowledging that life can be exhausting when striving for more (the second mile), individuals often resist due to comfort or fatigue; however, these moments are crucial for experiencing God's blessings fully in their lives.

Experiencing Incredible Things in the Lord

Introduction to the Series

• The speaker encourages listeners to engage deeply with their faith, suggesting that doing so will lead to incredible experiences in the Lord.

• A recap of previous sessions is provided, mentioning Pastor Nate's kickoff and Paul Herkman's remarkable achievement of running seven marathons on seven continents.

Physical vs. Emotional Exhaustion

• The speaker reflects on personal limitations compared to Paul Herkman’s endurance, humorously noting his own struggles with physical activity.

• A quote from a founding pastor highlights the tension between motivation and inertia: "Whenever I get the urge to go and work out at the gym, I lay on the couch till that urge goes away."

The Journey of Faith

• Discussion shifts from physical exhaustion to emotional challenges such as feeling empty or frustrated, which can hinder spiritual growth.

• Introduces the concept of a "J curve" in faith journeys, indicating that progress often involves setbacks before improvement.

Challenges in Faith

• Emphasizes that faith includes valleys and crises; it's common for believers to face disappointments and questions.

• Encourages perseverance through these dips, warning against giving up too soon after experiencing difficulties.

Biblical Illustration: Elijah's Story

• The speaker shares a favorite biblical story about Elijah confronting Israel's divided loyalties during a drought.

• Elijah proposes a contest between Yahweh and pagan gods, illustrating how distracted faith leads to dire consequences.

The Contest Between Gods

• Describes how people gathered for this dramatic showdown between Elijah and hundreds of pagan priests.

• Highlights Elijah’s taunting of the priests when their god fails to respond despite their frantic efforts.

God's Response Through Fire

• When it’s Elijah’s turn, he prays for God’s response; fire descends from heaven consuming his offering—demonstrating God's power.

• Concludes with an analogy comparing faithfulness to marriage—true devotion requires exclusivity beyond just occasional commitment.

Aftermath of Victory

• Despite witnessing God’s power, threats arise against Elijah from an evil king and queen following his victory—a reminder that challenges persist even after triumph.

Crisis of Faith: Elijah's Journey

The Pinnacle to Despair

• Elijah experiences a dramatic shift from a triumphant moment, saving lives in a burning building, to facing an insult that plunges him into deep depression.

• This transition highlights the human aspect of faith, as even powerful figures like Elijah can experience crises of faith and emotional turmoil.

Isolation and Emotional Struggles

• After hearing Jezebel's death threat, Elijah isolates himself from his supportive community, which exacerbates his fear and despair.

• He travels alone into the wilderness, demonstrating how withdrawal during crises can lead to deeper feelings of hopelessness.

Honest Reflections on Emotions

• Elijah expresses raw emotions by wishing for death, revealing the importance of acknowledging one's feelings rather than suppressing them.

• The speaker emphasizes that while emotions are valid, they should not dictate one's actions or decisions; instead, they should be processed constructively.

The Danger of Withdrawal

• Isolation is identified as a common response during crises; however, it is crucial to seek support from trusted individuals rather than retreating into solitude.

• The narrative warns against succumbing to despair and negative family patterns that can perpetuate cycles of hopelessness.

Encouragement Amidst Crisis

• Despite facing overwhelming challenges and questioning his identity, the message encourages perseverance through difficult times without giving up hope for the future.

• A reminder is given that everyone will face wounds and frustrations but urges listeners not to remain stagnant in their struggles.

Opportunities for Healing

Upcoming Soulcare Conference

• An announcement about an upcoming Soulcare Conference aimed at healing and overcoming personal struggles is made.

• The conference will feature Dr. Reamer as a leader and author, providing valuable insights for attendees seeking spiritual freedom.

Importance of Community Support

• Emphasis is placed on community involvement in healing processes; sharing experiences with others can foster growth and understanding.

Elijah's Journey: From Despair to Renewal

The Encounter with the Angel

• Elijah, in a state of depression, lays down under a broom tree and falls asleep. An angel touches him and instructs him to eat, providing bread and water.

• Despite receiving nourishment from the angel, Elijah chooses to return to sleep, illustrating a common human tendency to retreat into despair even when help is offered.

• The angel returns, emphasizing God's patience and mercy by encouraging Elijah to eat again for strength for his upcoming journey.

God's Compassionate Care

• God does not criticize or condemn Elijah but instead nourishes him physically and spiritually, demonstrating His understanding of human weakness.

• The repetition of divine intervention highlights God's persistent desire to provide hope and strength even when we resist it.

• Encouragement is given that one's journey is not over; God calls us to be nourished by Him rather than seeking fulfillment elsewhere.

Recognizing Our Vulnerabilities

• The acronym HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) describes a vulnerable state where individuals may seek unhealthy sources of nourishment.

• Failing to find sustenance in God can lead to destructive behaviors and addictions as people search for relief in inappropriate places.

• A call is made for those struggling in such states to turn back towards God for renewal and strength.

Divine Communication

• Upon reaching a cave, God questions Elijah about his presence there. Elijah expresses feelings of isolation and despair regarding Israel's unfaithfulness.

• A series of natural disasters occur (windstorm, earthquake, fire), yet God’s voice is found in a gentle whisper afterward—signifying that divine communication often comes quietly rather than through dramatic events.

Renewed Purpose Through Action

• God points out Elijah's self-centeredness while offering him renewed vision beyond his immediate struggles.

• Instructions are given for future actions: anointing kings and appointing Elisha as prophet—indicating that there remains significant work ahead despite personal challenges.

• Emphasizing community support, God reveals that 7,000 others remain faithful. This serves as reassurance against feelings of isolation during difficult times.

Conclusion: Running the Extra Mile

• To gain renewed perspective on life’s purpose requires taking proactive steps toward fulfilling God's mission rather than succumbing to despair.

What Does It Mean to Go the Extra Mile?

Understanding the Concept of the Extra Mile

• The speaker introduces the idea of discovering personal significance within a larger purpose, prompting reflection on what "going the extra mile" means in individual contexts.

• Emphasizes serving others as a primary way to go the extra mile, contrasting consumer spirituality with selfless service. The first mile focuses on personal gain, while the second mile shifts attention to benefiting others.

Biblical Foundations for Serving Others

• References Mark 10:45, highlighting Jesus' example of service over being served. This sets a standard for selflessness and sacrifice in faith.

• Cites Philippians 2:3-5, urging humility and consideration for others’ interests. This attitude is essential for moving beyond self-centeredness.

Practical Applications of Serving Others

• Encourages noticing those around us who need support—whether at work, school, or in neighborhoods—and actively seeking ways to serve them.

• Suggests serving discreetly without seeking recognition or validation from others, aligning with teachings from the Sermon on the Mount about genuine acts of kindness.

Building Community Through Service

• Introduces building community as another area where one can go the extra mile. Highlights that true community extends beyond casual social interactions to spiritual connections.

• Quotes Hebrews 10:24-25 about motivating each other towards love and good works and emphasizes not withdrawing during difficult times but leaning into community support.

The Importance of Relationships in Faith

• Discusses how relationships require effort but are ultimately rewarding; encourages pursuing diverse communities centered around shared values rather than superficial similarities.

• Contrasts first-mile faith (limited friendships) with second-mile faith (valuing deeper connections), advocating for enriching relationships that inspire growth and service.

Engaging in God's Mission

• Defines going the extra mile in terms of participating in God’s mission by sharing hope with others rather than keeping faith private.

• Encourages believers to be proactive in looking for opportunities to share their faith and hope with those around them, emphasizing awareness over opportunity scarcity.

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Invites listeners to reflect on Galatians 6:9–10 about perseverance in doing good deeds without losing heart, reinforcing commitment to serving others consistently.

Prayer for Renewal and Strength

Seeking Divine Nourishment

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of perseverance, stating that blessings will come if one does not give up. Encouragement is given to do good to everyone, especially fellow believers.

Prayer for the Depleted

• A prayer is offered for those feeling empty or frustrated, asking God to nourish their souls and provide vision for the future. The message encourages listeners not to give up as there are more experiences ahead.

Invitation for Reflection

• The speaker invites participants to close their eyes and reflect on their need for renewed strength, clarity, or courage from God. This moment is inclusive of those joining from home.

Requesting Clarity and Courage

• Participants are encouraged to raise their hands towards heaven as a sign of seeking God's nourishment and clarity in difficult times. The focus is on overcoming fear and anxiety through divine support.

Assurance of Support

• A prayer is made for renewal and strength akin to what Elijah received at his lowest point. The speaker asks God to provide hope and excitement for the journey ahead while acknowledging struggles with frustration and anxiety.

Intercession for Others

• The speaker prays that God places someone on the hearts of listeners who needs hope. This includes coworkers or neighbors, emphasizing the importance of sharing Jesus' hope with others.