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Abilene, TX 79606

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325-692-6540

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Abilene, TX 79606

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Friendship

Series: Blessed2

Summary

It is more blessed to give than receive, especially in friendship (Acts 20:35). The research is clear: good relationships keep us happier and healthier. It is what Paul modeled and taught the elders of the church in Ephesus. We are not just blessed but more blessed (i.e., doubly blessed, blessed squared) when we give of ourselves for the sake of others. The way up is by going down, having a heart of a servant in total dependance upon God (Philippians 2:5-7). We find ourselves when we lose ourselves (Matthew 16:25), particularly in relationships. When we make friendships about us, with the intent to control the benefits and outcomes of the relationship, we become increasingly lonely. It simply does not work. But when we give in friendship with deep love, care, and affection – when our mindset is giving rather than receiving – it produces powerful and lasting connection (Acts 20:36-38).

Speaker: David McQueen

January 4, 2024

Acts 20:16-38

David McQueen

Lead Pastor

Sermon Notes

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Follow Along with the Message


Blessed^2

Friendship

Text: Acts 20:16-38

There are promises all over the Scripture where God tells us how to be  in this life.

This is the only place where we're told how to be   (v.35)

When we look at what God says will lead to blessing and abundance in life, it is upside down compared to the standards of our world,  relative to what is normal.

  • To find ourselves we  ourselves. (Mt. 16:25)
  • The way up is by going  (Phil. 2:5-7)
  • Blessing comes from growing  not increasing independence. (Mk. 10:15-16)

If we want to be "more blessed," then we must embrace this principle as a foundational truth of our  

It is more blessed to  than  including  

The norm of our world is to make friendship first about me, but it's  of how God has wired the world to work.

It's why people are increasingly  

Paul went to Ephesus, and he gave himself. He gave friendship. He gave  He gave love. (v.31)

When we in faith give  we end up receiving far more in return. (Gal. 6:7)

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