Sermon - Jeff Raines - UnMoved [Matthew 28:19-20]

In the 1720’s, a young educated man in Europe named Count Von Zinzendorf encountered a painting of Jesus by Domenico Feti that posed a question.  In Latin at the bottom of the painting, the question was “I have done this for you- what have you done for me?” This art and this question sparked to all-consuming devotion and a life long commitment by Zinzendorf.  Some years later, a group of Moravian refugees sought shelter in the Lutheran region of modern day Germany and Zinzendorf gave them land on his estate.  They formed a community and named it “Hernhut” which means “on the watch for the Lord.” In 1727 they came to a brotherly agreement and at a Wednesday prayer meeting on August 13th, the Holy Spirit prompted them to start a prayer watch- a 24 hour, 7 day a week prayer movement that lasted 100 years. 

Their movement was Mission Driven. “Preach the gospel, die, and be forgotten; as long as Christ is not.” Count Von Zinzendorf

What has Jesus called us to do?  What has Jesus called me to do? 

Their movement was Other Focused. “It is the duty of every Christian to be Christ to his neighbor.” Count Von Zinzendorf

People became missionaries all over the world. “Declare the glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” Psalm 96:3 

Their movement was Vision Pursuing. The Moravians stayed true to the vision they adopted.  It was slow work, but they invested in people and places all over the world, devoted to unity and to generosity and humility all along the way.  This is WHY we are undergoing renovations on our campus- so we can make disciples that can go out and tell about Jesus! 

Their movement was Edge Expanding. “The Lamb has conquered.  Let us follow him.” Count Von Zinzendorf 

Are we ready to MOVE?  To be part of a movement? 

Consider your commitment to the Witness, Neighbor, Freedom, Care and Bible paths. 

In what way is God calling us to MOVE?