Sermon Title: Bold Faith, Bold Action
Reno Campus
Pastor Jericho Toilolo
Carson Campus
Pastor David Pretlove
Campus Announcements / Service Moments
Reno Campus
Carson Campus
Sermon Title: Bold Faith, Bold Action
Passage: Nehemiah 1:11b; Nehemiah 2:1-16; James 2:14-18
- We, like Nehemiah, have been put in position for bold action and impact.
Nehemiah 1:11b - Risk free faith is no faith at all.
Nehemiah 2:1-10 - Faith that does not lead to action is no faith at all.
Nehemiah 2:11-16
James 2:14-18
GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Have you ever taken a big risk for something, knowing full well that the outcome
was uncertain? - How are faith and risk connected?
- Nehemiah was clearly a risk-taker. What was the source of his confidence in taking
this risk, and how would you compare that to your own life in taking risks as well? - Have you ever taken a risk that came with such a significantly dire consequence if it didn’t turn out well that it kept you on your knees?
- How has taking a risk for God’s kingdom in the past impacted your faith today? How did that affect you?
- What risks do you feel God is calling our church to regarding this Uncharted journeycand the people we seek to reach and raise?
- What risks do you feel God is calling you to personally as it relates to this Uncharted journey and your role in it?
PERSONAL REFLECTION QUESTIONS:
- What “bold action” do you sense God has uniquely positioned you for right now?
- How might God be calling you to risk something for His purpose?
- Where in your life do you feel a tension between the security you hold onto and the unknown God might be inviting you into?
- How does stepping out in faith challenge or strengthen your trust in Him?
- What areas of your faith might God be asking you to bring alive through action?
- Think about one step you could take this week, even if it’s small, that moves your faith from belief to boldness
- Nehemiah saw a need and couldn’t ignore it. Is there something or someone God has put on your heart that you find yourself returning to in thought or prayer?
- Reflect on a time when God called you to bold action in the past. What might that past experience tell you about trusting Him in this season?
SCRIPTURES TO MEDITATE ON:
RESOURCES:
- Book | Chasing the Lion: If Your Dream Doesn’t Scare You, It’s Too Small | Mark Batterson
- Book | The Barbarian Way: Unleash the Untamed Faith Within | Erwin Raphael McManus
MONTHLY SPIRITUAL PRACTICE TO TRY: SIMPLICITY
Modern life is not simple. In fact many western christians take joy in a over scheduled, full calender. Whether they are filling their calendar with social engagements or playing Uber driver for their kids, we find ways to be busy. A quick simple study of 10 friends can tell you just how busy people are. I would guess that 7-8 of 10 people you ask how they are, would answer good, but busy. We constantly fill our time with anything to distract us and make us feel some value or worth.
Simplicity allows margin in our lives. Simplicity allows for space and freedom in our lives. However our mind and our heart wants to sell us a lie, that a packet schedule is valuable. Jesus teaches us, where our treasure is, so will our heart lie. He is trying to teaching us that we do not need all the things and experiences, we need to focus on the Father and the Kingdom.
I would like to challenge you this week to begin to reflect on your life. Is it one of simplicity or is it complicated?
- Where has the thought pattern of more is better soaked into your life? List the areas.
- Choosing a few areas to practice simplicity and “letting go.”
- Clean out the garage, basement, closet or attic.
- Dedicate tech – free time. Try no technology for 4-5 hours.
- Eat more simply.
- What is this like for you? Write our your experience.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT:
‘Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.’ Hebrews 11:1
Reflection:
Bold faith is more than just believing; it’s stepping out in confidence, trusting in God’s promises even when the path ahead is unclear. Think of the great figures in the Bible – Moses confronting Pharoah, David facing Goliath, Eshter approaching the king without an invitation. Each of these individuals acted with courageous faith, relying on God’s strength to accomplish what seemed impossible. In our own lives, we often face moments that require this kind of boldness. Whether it’s making a significant life change, standing up for what’s right, or following a calling that feels daunting, bold faith is the fuel that propels us forward. It invites us to look beyond our fears and uncertainties and to lean into the assurance that God is with us.
Consider:
- What areas of your life require a step of bold faith?
- Are there fears or doubts holding you back from acting on what you believe God is calling you to do?
- How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness in the past to encourage your faith today?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the examples of bold faith throughout Scripture. Help me to trust in Your promises and step out with confidence, even when I can’t see the whole picture. Give me the courage to act on the dreams and calls You’ve placed in my heart. I pray for strength and clarity as I navigate challenges, knowing that You are with me every step of the way. Amen.
Action Step:
Identify one specific area in your life where you need to exercise bold faith. Write it down and make a plan for how you will take a step forward this week. Share this intention with a friend or family member for accountability and encouragement.
Closing Thought:
Bold faith isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the choice to trust God in spite of it. As you step out, remember that every act of faith is a declaration of your trust in God’s goodness and guidance.
Rob Hans | Spiritual Formation and Connections Pastor