Devoted '25 - Session 3

Called to Be Prophets of Hope

Scripture References: Ephesians 1:18; Psalm 107:2; Luke 1:46-53

Sermon Notes:

Intro: Welcome to this sermon! Ephesians 1:18 prays for enlightened heart-eyes to know the hope we're called to. This isn't wishful thinking; it's confident assurance based on God's unchanging nature (faithful, good, true to His Word). Because God works all things for good, we ultimately cannot lose. Even death is gain. People desperately need this real hope today, as much hope is misplaced in temporary systems or people. We, the redeemed, must change the narrative.

Key Points: Becoming Prophets of Hope

1. Change the Narrator: If you don't like the negative narrative (fear, despair, division), become the narrator of hope. God is raising up voices of hope.
2. We ALL Carry Prophetic Hope: Like evangelism or healing, releasing prophetic hope (God's heart and perspective) isn't just for specialists. The Holy Spirit empowers all believers to speak life and hope.
3. Women as Historical Models: Scripture repeatedly shows women sensing God's next move when others missed it, pouring out radical devotion, and releasing prophetic hope: 
   • Mary (Jesus' mother): Said "yes" and sang prophetically (Luke 1), ushering in the Messiah.
   • Anna: Recognized baby Jesus, worshiped, and proclaimed Him.
   • "Sinful" Woman (Luke 7): Recognized Jesus amidst doubt, anointed Him with extravagant love.
   • Mary (at Bethany): Sensed Jesus' coming death/resurrection, anointed Him lavishly despite criticism. Her worship lingered even on the cross.
   • Women at the Tomb: First to encounter the risen Christ and proclaim the resurrection.
4. Modern Examples: Ordinary women continue this legacy (Lama Gbowee ending war with prayer, Aja Brown transforming Compton as mayor, Mariana reaching government in Ecuador, Cassandra educating in Congo, Lauren evangelizing through makeup artistry). They used what they had, obeyed God, and saw multiplication.
5. Bring Your "Lunch": Like the boy with fish/loaves, what you have may seem insignificant. But when given to Jesus and acted upon in faith ("walking out" to distribute), He multiplies it. Don't despise small beginnings or wait until you feel "enough."

Conclusion: God is looking for women today to rise up as prophets of hope. Stop waiting for others to lead or fix things – become it. Pour out your "alabaster jar" of worship, gifts, and life. God is famous for using the simple and multiplying meager offerings given in faith. He wants to partner with you. This call includes "radical hospitality"—loving the stranger, making space for the outsider—as a key way to release hope.

Call to Action: Are you ready to get off the safe road and dive all-in? Ask God how you can be prophetic hope. What's in your hand? Take a step of faith, however small. Start the book, volunteer, invite the neighbor, take the class. Bring your "lunch" to Jesus and watch Him multiply it. Embrace radical hospitality. It's time to get your fight back and release hope!

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*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.