Making Your Life Count!    Sermon Notes                                                                                  Pastor Brad Myers

Impactful Influence!                                                                                                                           January 26, 2025

Today: Impactful Influence!

 

Whether we realize it or not we all have influence; but not all of us have a positive impact

 

One of the most powerful tools God gave us is Influence

 

What’s Influence?

 

Influence refers to how our lives and actions impact others’ perceptions, beliefs, and spiritual journey. Each of us, by virtue of our faith and actions, possesses the ability to influence those around us. Whether we realize it or not, our words, deeds, and overall demeanor can leave lasting impressions on both believers and non-believers alike.

 

Stone Ripple Effect

·      Our lives can create ripples that touch countless others, shaping their spiritual journey.

 

Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

·      Jesus calls us to be visible examples of His love and grace.

 

Our influence should direct others toward God, encouraging them to seek Him through our actions.

Q) What’s the impact of your influence?

Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

·      Highlights the mutual influence believers have on each other

·      Fostering growth and strengthening faith.

 

Dual Impact of our Influence

1.     Fellow Believers

2.     Non-Believers

 

Dual Outcomes of our Influence

1.     Positive

2.     Negative

3.     No Positive Impact is Negative Impact!

 

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus’ interactions consistently brought about transformation in individuals and communities. From healing the sick and forgiving sins to challenging societal norms and inspiring followers, His life exemplifies profound positive influence.

 

(MULTILINE REVEAL SMALL)

 

How our influence impacts fellow believers

 

1.     Builds Each Other Up

Ephesians 4:16 (NLT)

 

Our walk influences and strengthens our fellow believers.When we live out our faith authentically, we provide encouragement and support to one another. Our acts of kindness, patience, and love serve as tangible reminders of God’s presence and grace within our community.

 

2.     Encourages Spiritual Growth

 

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)

·      We are family and no family agrees on everything

 

3. Promotes Christ-like Behavior

 

Philippians 2:3-4 (NLT)

 

When we embody humility, grace, and selflessness, we set a powerful example for those around us. Our behavior can inspire fellow believers to deepen their commitment to Christ, fostering a culture of love and mutual respect within the church.

Apostle Paul mentoring Timothy

 

1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)

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What about how our influence impacts non-believers?

 

1.     Be a Witness Through Actions

 

Matthew 5:16 (NLT)

 

Our walk with Christ extends beyond the church walls. When we live out our faith with integrity and compassion in our daily lives—we become living testimonies of God’s love. These visible acts of faith can pique the curiosity of non-believers, opening doors for meaningful conversations about our beliefs.

 

Political Question: Both sides of the aisle.

 

Q) How can you put up with that?

 

1 John 4:4 (KJV)

……..greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

 

2.     Demonstrate Unconditional Love and Acceptance

 

John 13:34-35 (NIV)

 

In a world marked by division and judgment, our ability to love unconditionally stands out. When non-believers observe our genuine care and acceptance, regardless of their background or beliefs, it can break down barriers and dispel misconceptions about Christianity.

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Two outcomes of our Influence

 

1.     Positive Impact: Leads to Discipleship

·      Encourages People: Others feel motivated to improve.

·      Builds Trust:People feel comfortable seeking your advice and support.

·      Promotes Harmony and Unity:Your presence contributes to a more harmonious and unified environment.

 

2.     Negative Impact: Leads to Distance

·      Discontent & Frustration:After interactions.

·      Withdrawal and Distance:People avoid interactions with you.

·      Conflict and Tension:Frequent disagreements arise from your behavior.

 

Q) Does the impact of your influence reflect the fruits of the Spirit?

 

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

 

Social media has changed the Influence landscape.

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Study 2015: Digital Influence and Faith-Based Outreach

 

Study: 4-Scientist: Vaterlaus, Patten, Roche, Young

“The Perceived Influence of Social Media on Young Adults’ Health Behaviors.”

 

Findings:

Positive online interactions lead to healthier lifestyle choices.

 

Implications:

Believers who share their faith journey, inspirational messages, and positive actions on social media can influence a broad audience, including non-believers, by showcasing the transformative power of Christ.

 

Influence is a powerful force, and whether good or bad, it will shape others.

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We determine how impactful our influence is

How? By safeguarding three things.

1.     Proximity:The closer you get the more influence you have.

2.     Respect:The more respect you have the more others listen.

3.     Repetition:The more they hear you the more they follow.

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” John Wesley

 

Our influence should be a positive impact to the least, the last, and the lost.

Q) What’s the impact of your influence today?