Evangelism II | AGC & Discipleship Training (July 1st)

AGC Training Final Session: A Life-Altering Experience

Introduction to the Session

• This is the final session of AGC training, described as potentially life-altering for participants globally.

• The speaker expresses amazement at the revelations received from God and reflects on their significance.

Understanding Purpose and Existence

• The speaker questions humanity's understanding of purpose, emphasizing that even kings and prophets longed to hear what the audience is about to learn.

• They highlight the importance of knowing one's purpose in life, suggesting that without this knowledge, survival becomes challenging.

Science vs. Spirituality

• The speaker critiques scientific explanations for existence, arguing that they often reduce human beings to mere accidents or random occurrences.

• They assert that recent scientific findings contradict the notion of randomness, indicating a deeper purpose behind creation.

Consciousness and Historical Context

• The discussion shifts towards consciousness, with the speaker positing that historical accounts in religious texts reflect a history of human consciousness rather than just events.

• They mention civilizations existing before Adam and Eve, suggesting untold stories within these ancient narratives that are hinted at in religious texts.

Personal Reflection on Belief Systems

• The speaker shares a personal struggle with understanding their place in the universe and how belief systems shape reality during challenging times.

The Significance of Being Born in This Generation

The Greater Potential of the Current Generation

• The speaker discusses the biblical notion that "the least in the kingdom is greater than those who are in the past," emphasizing that individuals born today have a greater potential than those from 2,000 years ago.

• Regardless of personal beliefs, it is acknowledged that Jesus Christ's arrival marked a significant shift in history, suggesting a divine purpose for being born in this generation.

• The idea presented is that every person born now holds immense potential according to Christ's teachings, surpassing historical figures.

Historical Context and Its Relevance

• The speaker reflects on ancient stories, including those of Moses and Israel, highlighting their ongoing relevance and the persistent challenges faced by these communities throughout history.

• Despite differing opinions about Israel, the speaker argues for recognizing an enduring truth within these ancient narratives as they continue to be discussed globally.

Impact of Judeo-Christian Values

• The discussion transitions to how Jesus' influence contributed to what is termed "Western civilization," which is rooted in Judeo-Christian values.

• Acknowledging Western civilization's contributions prompts reflection on its significance and impact on global societies today.

Understanding Humanity Through Biblical Metaphors

• The metaphor of God as a potter shaping humanity from dust illustrates our origins and connection to creation; this aligns with scientific views on human ancestry.

• The concept emphasizes humanity’s fragility and divine craftsmanship, reinforcing themes found throughout biblical texts regarding God's role as creator.

Universal Priesthood Concept

• The speaker introduces the idea of a universal priesthood established by God for all people, indicating an inherent desire for everyone to know Him.

Understanding the Historical Context of Priesthood

The Role of Brahmins and Levites in Ancient Civilizations

• The speaker discusses the historical precedence of Levites as priests before Brahmins, emphasizing that the Middle Eastern civilization predates Indian civilization based on carbon dating.

• The Jewish Levite priesthood is highlighted as a significant aspect of ancient religious structure, with an emphasis on its uniqueness compared to other priestly systems.

• Each family was expected to have a priest from among their eldest sons, indicating a universal access to priesthood within families, which reflects God's desire for deep familial connections.

• If families did not dedicate their eldest son to the priesthood, they were required to redeem him with silver, illustrating a transactional aspect of maintaining familial ties to God.

• This system led God to designate one tribe (the Levites) as priests for all tribes, shifting from individual family priests to a centralized priestly class.

Redemption and Its Significance

• The concept of redemption through silver is linked to biblical narratives such as Joseph's story and Judas' betrayal, suggesting deeper theological implications regarding sacrifice and redemption.

• Silver dust seen during spiritual practices symbolizes the redemptive nature associated with the priesthood and signifies that all are redeemed for this role.

• Understanding this redemptive nature helps explain why God desires access to every family; it emphasizes His plan for connection across generations.

Generational Perspectives in Spirituality

• The speaker encourages listeners to reflect on their ancestral lineage back through generations (70x7), highlighting how each individual's existence is part of a divine plan initiated by God.

• By tracing back one's heritage (e.g., surnames), individuals can appreciate God's overarching purpose for each generation rather than viewing them merely through contemporary lenses.

• Emphasizing God's identity as "the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob," the speaker illustrates how divine plans span generations beyond immediate concerns or mistakes.

Conclusion: A Broader Vision

Understanding God's Eternal Plan

The Concept of Salvation and Eternity

• The speaker emphasizes that God's plan for humanity transcends mere earthly concerns, suggesting that salvation is not limited to immediate needs or desires.

• A critique is made against the notion of small-mindedness in viewing salvation as tied to material possessions, such as cars or houses.

• The idea that eternity is ingrained in human hearts is introduced, highlighting a longing for something greater than our temporal existence.

• Nostalgia and a sense of ancient connection are discussed, illustrating how travel can evoke feelings of familiarity with places we've never been before.

• The speaker reflects on the innate greatness within individuals, despite societal pressures to conform or feel insignificant.

The Inner Drive for Greatness

• There’s an assertion that everyone possesses a deep-seated desire for greatness and glory, which often feels suppressed by external influences.

• This internal struggle is acknowledged; people may feel diminished by others but still harbor aspirations for something monumental within themselves.

• The speaker expresses hope in awakening this inner potential, suggesting it leads to discovering one's purpose in life.

• Humorously addressing aging, the speaker notes that this yearning does not diminish with age but remains constant throughout life stages.

Scriptural Insights from Zechariah

• Transitioning into scripture, the speaker introduces Zechariah as a prophet who acted out parables to convey deeper truths about God’s message.

• Zechariah's role as a shepherd symbolizes spiritual leadership and responsibility; he was instructed by God to seek his wages from those he served.

• A significant moment occurs when Zechariah receives 30 pieces of silver as payment—a foreshadowing of Jesus' betrayal later depicted in the New Testament.

• This payment serves as commentary on how spiritual leaders are often undervalued despite their contributions and sacrifices for their communities.

• The act of throwing the silver into the house of the Lord signifies obedience to divine instruction while also hinting at future events concerning Jesus Christ.

Prophetic Fulfillment

• Discussion continues on how modern representations of shepherd figures (like pastors or priests), though sometimes flawed, still hold value in their roles within faith communities.

• Emphasis is placed on recognizing worthiness among spiritual leaders regardless of personal shortcomings or public perceptions.

The Potter and the Clay: Understanding Our Purpose

The Role of the Potter

• God is likened to a potter who recreates humanity from clay, emphasizing our purpose of being renewed.

• This metaphor illustrates that we are shaped by God's hands, highlighting His role as our creator and father.

Biblical References to Creation

• Isaiah acknowledges God as our father and us as clay in His hands, reinforcing the idea of divine craftsmanship.

• Jeremiah's experience at the potter's house symbolizes God's authority to reshape and renew us, indicating a prophetic tradition about human recreation.

New Testament Implications

• The concept of being "born again" signifies a transformation distinct from humanity 2,000 years ago, marking a new phase in spiritual identity.

• Jesus' crucifixion represents the fulfillment of prophecies regarding redemption through sacrifice, linking back to themes of value and betrayal seen in earlier scriptures.

Betrayal for Silver

• Judas’ remorse after betraying Jesus for 30 pieces of silver highlights how undervaluation can lead to betrayal within spiritual contexts.

• The comparison between Joseph’s sale into slavery for silver and Judas’ betrayal underscores a recurring theme of disregard for priesthood and sacred roles.

Identity as Priests

• While many accept their identity as children of God easily, claiming priesthood often brings challenges such as imposter syndrome due to societal expectations.

The Challenge to Priesthood

The Nature of the Challenge

• The speaker emphasizes that the challenge to their authority stems from their role as a priest, specifically as a bishop, rather than any mystical claims they might make.

• They draw parallels between modern betrayals and biblical narratives, suggesting that individuals often forsake their spiritual authority for material gain, likening it to Judas's betrayal of Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.

Betrayal and Forgiveness

• The speaker reflects on Judas's realization of his betrayal and the implications it has on the concept of bloodlines and priesthood. They highlight how this theme resonates through generations.

• A discussion arises about forgiveness, referencing Jesus’s teachings on forgiving others "70 times 7," indicating an expansive view of mercy that transcends time.

Redemption and Legacy

• The narrative shifts to discuss the potter's field purchased with Judas's silver, symbolizing a place where what is deemed worthless can be redeemed.

• The speaker asserts that the ongoing challenge is against one's priesthood, urging listeners to recognize their unique calling in life amidst societal indifference.

Understanding Your Calling

Divine Selection

• Questions are posed regarding why individuals find themselves in specific familial or social contexts, suggesting a divine purpose behind these placements.

• The speaker introduces the concept of a higher priesthood known as the Melchizedek order, which surpasses traditional human priesthood roles.

Historical Context of Forgiveness

• A historical context is provided regarding Jesus’s interactions with Levite priests who held exclusive rights to forgive sins. This sets up a contrast with Jesus’s radical approach to forgiveness.

• It is emphasized that true forgiveness requires sacrifice; however, Jesus embodies both the sacrificial lamb and the high priest.

Generational Impact of Sin

Power Over Generations

• The discussion highlights how sin impacts not just individuals but entire lineages. Genetic issues are linked back to ancestral mistakes.

• There’s an exploration into what it would mean if one could forgive sins across generations—suggesting profound implications for healing family lines.

Destiny and Response

The Impact of Saying Yes to Jesus

New Creation and Lineage

• The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of saying "yes" to Jesus, referencing 2 Corinthians 5, which states that believers are new creations with all things made new.

• The discussion highlights God's interest not only in individuals but also in their entire lineage, spanning generations back thousands of years.

• It is suggested that accepting Christ is not solely about personal salvation but also about the responsibility towards one's ancestors and descendants.

Biblical References and Historical Context

• The speaker recounts the story of Saul consulting a medium to summon Samuel, illustrating the concept of souls being in a state of slumber before Christ's resurrection.

• Before Christ's arrival, many souls were believed to be in slumber; thus, His coming was significant for those who had died prior.

Resurrection and Its Implications

• Upon Christ’s resurrection, it is noted that He was not alone; many ancient saints were resurrected alongside Him, walking among people for 40 days (Matthew 27:52-53).

• This event signifies that when one comes into Christ, it affects their entire lineage as those previously asleep are awakened.

God’s Interest in Generations

• The speaker argues that God cares deeply about past generations and desires redemption for them through present-day believers.

• It is stated that if one person accepts Jesus, there exists an invitation for their entire lineage to receive grace retroactively.

Choice and Redemption Across Time

• The importance of individual choice is emphasized; while everyone has the opportunity for salvation through acceptance of Jesus, it does not guarantee universal salvation for all ancestors.

Understanding Purpose and Generational Legacy

The Call of Generations

• The speaker discusses the spiritual realm, referencing Hebrews 7, emphasizing that every generation seeks purpose beyond mere existence.

• Highlights the idea that historical figures had a sense of purpose, dreaming of blessings for future generations, even if they did not know God.

The Concept of "Theos"

• Introduces "theos," meaning oneness with God; emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from a personal relationship with the Creator.

• Mentions a trend in America where individuals are deconstructing their faith but stresses the importance of reconstructing one's beliefs rather than abandoning them entirely.

Deconstruction and Reconstruction

• Shares an anecdote about a friend who partially engaged in deconstruction but ultimately found happiness upon reconnecting with his purpose and understanding God's role in his life.

• Describes the existential crisis faced by those who deconstruct without finding new meaning, leading to feelings of misery and lack of purpose.

Ancestral Connections

• Discusses how many believe preaching the gospel is unnecessary due to God's inherent goodness; however, emphasizes God's interest in entire lineages and eternal purposes.

• Reflects on how difficult it can be for people to connect with their ancestors unless there is a tangible inheritance involved.

Thinking Beyond Generations

• Explains God's connection to generations through biblical references (e.g., Abraham), highlighting His loyalty across time.

• Shares personal reflections on ancestors' righteous intentions, suggesting that fulfilling their incomplete dreams is part of our spiritual journey.

Expanding Our Vision

• Encourages thinking bigger as God instructed Abraham; suggests that limitations often hinder our ability to envision future generations.

The Power of Forgiveness and Generational Healing

The Vision of Jesus' Sacrifice

• The speaker emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus seeing humanity as his joy during his crucifixion, highlighting the immense love and vision he had for individuals even 2,000 years ago.

Personal Reflection on Land Acquisition

• A personal anecdote is shared about a piece of land in Colombo that holds significant value, illustrating how faith can lead to believing in seemingly impossible opportunities.

Understanding God's Greatness

• The speaker discusses the importance of recognizing God's greatness to overcome limitations in life, suggesting that understanding this can open up possibilities for abundance.

Generational Impact of Forgiveness

• The concept of generational curses is introduced, explaining how unresolved issues from ancestors can affect one's health and longevity. Forgiveness is presented as a key to breaking these cycles.

Role of Priesthood in Healing

• The idea that individuals can act as priests by forgiving their ancestors is discussed. This forgiveness allows for healing across generations and connects those who were lost back to God.

Spiritual Waiting for Deliverance

• There’s an exploration into the spiritual realm where ancestors are depicted as waiting for someone from their lineage to save them, emphasizing the urgency and responsibility felt by the living.

Importance of New Creation Through Forgiveness

• The notion that true transformation comes through forgiveness is highlighted. Being a new creation means shedding old identities tied to past sins or traumas.

Retrocausality and Generational Healing

• Retrocausality is introduced; understanding God requires looking back at one’s lineage. This perspective encourages continuous forgiveness extending back through generations.

Reflecting on Past Experiences with Kindness

• The speaker reflects on their past actions with kindness rather than judgment, suggesting that viewing past mistakes positively contributes to personal growth and healing.

Embracing Identity as a New Creation

• Emphasizing self-forgiveness leads to embracing one's identity as a new creation. This shift allows individuals to redefine themselves beyond previous negative experiences.

Legacy Through Generational Forgiveness

The Eternal Priesthood and Generational Legacy

The Concept of the Chosen One

• The speaker identifies themselves as "the chosen one," emphasizing their role across generations, suggesting a divine purpose to reveal the nature of God to humanity.

• They reference the transformative power of belief, stating that understanding this identity can lead to significant changes in one's life.

Understanding the Melchizedek Order

• Discussion shifts to the priesthood of Melchizedek, highlighting its significance in biblical texts, particularly Hebrews 7.

• The speaker notes that Melchizedek is described as "king of righteousness" and "king of peace," indicating a dual role that embodies both justice and tranquility.

• Emphasizes that this priesthood is eternal—without beginning or end—indicating its existence prior to Jesus Christ and its ongoing relevance.

The Nature of Eternal Priesthood

• Questions why God would establish an eternal priesthood, suggesting it is for salvation that transcends time—both past and future.

• Highlights how those in this order are called to receive tithes from others, establishing a connection between spiritual authority and community support.

Power and Permanence

• Introduces the idea that another priest arises not through human law but through divine power, reinforcing the concept of endless life associated with this order.

• Stresses that believers are part of an eternal priestly lineage, which connects them back through generations.

Salvation Through Christ

• Discusses how Christ's unchangeable priesthood allows for salvation for all who come to God through Him, emphasizing inclusivity across time.

• Concludes with a powerful assertion about intercession; Christ lives eternally to advocate for humanity before God.

Generational Impact in Hebrews 11

• Shifts focus to Hebrews 11, which chronicles generational faithfulness from figures like Abraham and David.

• Highlights how each generation passes on knowledge and legacy, creating a continuous thread throughout history.

Connection Across Cultures

• Encourages connecting personal ancestry with broader historical narratives within scripture, illustrating God's acknowledgment across diverse cultures.

Understanding the Promise: Faith and Legacy

The Concept of Dying in Faith

• The speaker emphasizes that "they all died in faith, not having received the promise," highlighting a key biblical theme about faith without immediate reward.

• Despite not receiving the promise, they were assured of it from afar, embracing their identity as "strangers and pilgrims on the earth."

Universal Search for Purpose

• The discussion broadens to include various belief systems (Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism), suggesting that every individual is born with an innate sense of purpose and eternity.

• This universal longing for something greater is echoed across cultures; individuals feel a calling for significance beyond material existence.

Living for Future Generations

• The ancients lived with a vision beyond their immediate circumstances, waiting for a city built by God rather than focusing solely on earthly possessions.

• The speaker contrasts past mindsets with contemporary concerns about daily survival, noting that earlier generations prioritized legacy over personal gain.

Reflection on Historical Figures

• Acknowledging ancestors who may have had wealth or status but did not receive the ultimate promise serves to illustrate a deeper spiritual truth.

• Hebrews 11 reiterates that despite obtaining good testimonies through faith, these figures did not receive the promise—indicating a divine plan that transcends individual experiences.

The Better Promise

• The speaker asserts that God has provided something better for current believers than what was available to their forefathers.

Understanding the Role of Priesthood

The Significance of Priesthood

• The speaker emphasizes that understanding one's role as a priest is crucial, stating that "the least of the kingdom is greater than them," highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership.

• A comparison is made between earthly kings and the higher calling of a Mechizedek priest, suggesting that while kings may rule, they lack the spiritual authority provided by this priesthood.

• The speaker critiques traditional confession practices, arguing that they offer limited forgiveness and lifespan extension compared to the transformative power of true priesthood.

Embracing Spiritual Authority

• There’s an encouragement for individuals to claim their role as priests within their families, asserting that one can rise above betrayal and neglect to fulfill this divine purpose.

• The concept of generational blessings is introduced; past generations are said to be perfected through current actions and faith, emphasizing continuity in spiritual legacy.

Connection with Ancestral Prayers

• Reflection on familial history reveals a longing for connection with ancestors who prayed for future generations' salvation and enlightenment.

• The speaker illustrates how ancestral prayers influence present circumstances, urging listeners to recognize their part in fulfilling these long-held hopes.

Realizing Grace in Current Generations

• A call to action is made: recognizing one's position as a conduit for blessings from previous generations can lead to personal transformation and empowerment.

• Faith must be actively engaged; without making this connection, individuals risk missing out on spiritual wealth and growth.

Expanding Understanding of Grace

• Discussion shifts towards contemporary understandings of grace, noting that current revelations surpass those from previous generations due to increased awareness and acceptance.

Owning Our Heritage

Embracing Ancestry

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of owning one's ancestry, including parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents. This ownership is crucial for personal growth and understanding one’s identity.

• Acknowledging both positive and negative aspects of family history allows individuals to expand their self-awareness and recognize the magnitude of their own existence.

• The discussion highlights a common tendency to take for granted the liberties, grace, and freedom that come from this ancestral acknowledgment.

• By fully embracing our heritage, we can better appreciate our current freedoms and responsibilities in life.