The atmosphere at 3C South Coast Family Church was electric this past Sunday as we celebrated a massive milestone — Pastor Larry Elliott’s 60th birthday. Between the heartfelt tributes from the youth ministry and the congregation’s joy, it was a beautiful reminder of what a life surrendered to God looks like.
But as Pastor Larry stepped up to deliver the latest message in our “Go!” series, he reminded us that the call to “go and make disciples of all nations” isn’t fueled by our own human stamina. Instead, it is anchored in Christ’s True Power.
The Five Keys to the Commission
To effectively fulfill the mandate to go, we must understand the spiritual framework Pastor Larry shared. It isn’t just about “doing” more; it’s about “being” positioned correctly. He outlined five principal keys that prepare us for the mission:
- Availability: Being ready and willing to serve whenever the call comes.
- The Power of Worship: Worship is a genuine game-changer that shifts our perspective.
- Submission: Learning the vital discipline of yielding our will to God’s.
- Obedience: This positions every believer to receive God’s grace and abundant blessings.
- Power: The ultimate outcome and the fuel for our daily productivity.
When we master the first four, the fifth — Power — becomes a natural outworking of our walk with God. As you continue living a life of obedience, you will find that God provides the strength you need for every task.
Defining Christ’s True Power
Many of us look for power in the form of external force or sudden miracles. However, Pastor Larry emphasized that God’s power is primarily internal and spiritual. It is a distinct, supernatural power inspired by the Holy Spirit that lives within us. If we miss this internal reality, we run the risk of burning out by trying to do God’s work in our own human strength.
Matthew 28:20 “…..and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”.
This promise is the bedrock of our mission. Jesus doesn’t send us out into our workplaces, schools, or communities alone; He is with us perpetually and on every occasion. This presence is the Holy Spirit, who provides the power for us to live, move, and have our very being.
What does this Power do for you?
According to Acts 1:8, we receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us to be witnesses. This internal presence does five specific things:
- It energises your spirit.
- It sanctifies your character.
- It gives you the capacity to handle challenges.
- It comforts you in times of trial.
- It keeps you connected to the life source.
Expectation vs. Reality: The Nature of the Kingdom
Pastor Larry drew a powerful contrast between what the world expects and what Jesus provides. Historically, the Jewish nation expected a Messiah who would provide military and political dominance to overthrow Roman rule. They wanted national liberation and visible signs.
However, Jesus presented a reality that was vastly different:
- A Spiritual Kingdom: Instead of military might, He empowered followers to love their enemies and find internal victory despite their circumstances.
- Servanthood over Dominance: While the world seeks external rule, Jesus taught that true greatness comes through humility and serving others.
- Internal Freedom: Rather than just independence from Rome, He offered eternal salvation and freedom from the power of sin.
John 20:29 “Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”.
True faith isn’t about chasing the next wonder; it is recognizing the deeper power found in the sacrifice of the cross and the peace of a transformed life.
Every Believer is a Leader
A key takeaway from the sermon was the reminder that every born-again believer is called to lead. People are watching you — at home, at work, and even on the sports field. You are called to be “salt and light,” which often means living such a transformed life that your daily actions testify to the truth of Jesus without you ever having to stand on a table and preach.
When you feel “cut off” or discouraged because you don’t see external progress, remember that God’s power finds its full expression in your weakness. If you are ready to start this journey of transformation, you can begin with a simple salvation prayer to invite the Holy Spirit to lead you.
Practical Application: Walking in the Spirit
To live out Christ’s True Power this week, consider these steps:
- Prioritize Inward Renewal: Spend time in the Word and prayer, focusing on what the Spirit is doing inside you rather than just your external problems.
- Embrace Servanthood: Look for one opportunity today to serve someone else with humility.
- Practice Patient Determination: Trust in God’s timing even when you don’t see immediate “signs and wonders” in your situation.
- Engage the Next Generation: Power is also about passing the baton. Support our youth by checking out Voltfest 2026 hosted by 3C this June at Supersport Park.
Cell Group Discussion Guide
- Read Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8. How does the promise of Jesus’ constant presence change the way you view your “mission field” (work, home, etc.)?
- Discussion: Pastor Larry mentioned that God’s power is often internal rather than external. Have you ever experienced a time when you had “internal victory” despite “adverse circumstances”?
- Reflection: Which of the five roles of the Holy Spirit (Energiser, Sanctifier, Capacity-builder, Comforter, Connector) do you need most in your life right now?
- Action: How can we, as a group, better support each other in leading through humility and servanthood this week?
A Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You that You never leave us to face the world alone.
We ask that You reveal the depth of Your power within us today.
Help us to stop relying on our human strength and instead yield to the Holy Spirit who energises, sanctifies, and comforts us. May our lives be a witness of Your humility and love to everyone we meet.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
