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Without a Vision People Perish

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TD Smith

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Sermon Outline – Without a Vision People Perish

Bible Text: Proverbs 29:18

Introduction

  • The Bible uses the word vision in two senses:
    1. Supernatural revelation (e.g., Apostle John’s vision in Revelation).
    2. Prophetic revelation through Scripture (God’s plan and direction for His people).
  • Today’s focus: the second meaning — God’s vision for His people as revealed in His Word.
  • Proverbs 29:18 often misused; it is not about buildings or projects but about obedience to God’s Word and purpose for His people.
  • The true vision: people obeying God’s Word, not material structures.

I. God’s Vision vs. Man’s Vision for the Church

  • Some denominations want a preacher’s “vision” before hiring, but the true vision is God’s Word, not man’s ideas.
  • The gospel of Christ is the vision to be preached continually.
  • Personal reflection: personal desires for church size and fellowship are secondary — God’s will for the church must prevail.
  • Commitment: support and pursue God’s vision for Sand Hill Creek Church.

II. The Message of Proverbs 29:18

  • Without vision (God’s Word/direction): people perish, become unruly, spiritually apathetic.
  • With vision (obedience to God’s Word): people and churches thrive, find joy, and are blessed.
  • Example: thriving churches follow God’s Word; perishing churches lose their God-given vision.
  • Warning: churches can die from false teaching, poor leadership, or neglecting God’s commands.
  • Call: keep eyes on Jesus, hearts in prayer, and desire God’s will — then blessings will follow.

III. The Example of Solomon

  • Author of Proverbs 29:18 understood the importance of God’s vision.
  • In Solomon’s reign:
    • Organized kingdom and workers.
    • First priority: building the temple (took 7 years).
    • Success and wisdom followed because he put God first.
  • Lesson: put God first, then success, peace, and blessings will follow.
  • Application: churches and individuals should follow this same God-given vision today.

IV. God’s Vision for the Church

  1. Lordship of Christ
    • Philippians 2:9-11 every knee shall bow, every tongue confess Jesus is Lord.
    • Jesus is the foundation, the name we trust in salvation, the one we honor in the church.
  2. Discipleship
    • Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20): make disciples, teach each generation.
    • Problem: many churches fail here, leading to decline and false teaching.
  3. Stewardship
    • Matthew 25:14-30 Parable of the Talents — faithfulness in resources, time, and gifts.
    • Everything comes from God; stewardship shows seriousness in following Jesus.
    • Encouragement: Sand Hill Creek Church excels in stewardship.
  4. Fellowship
    • Fellowship of believers is central to God’s vision.
    • True joy comes from unity, fellowship, and gathering in Jesus’ name.
    • Fellowship strengthens the body of Christ.

Conclusion (Close)

  • God’s true vision:
    • Lordship of Christ
    • Discipleship of believers
    • Stewardship of resources
    • Fellowship of saints
  • Man’s vision is numbers and buildings; God’s vision is building up the body of Christ to glorify His name.
  • Commitment: pursue God’s vision at Sand Hill Creek so all who enter experience unity, love, and Christ-centered fellowship.

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