An Eight-Word Sermon
Church of the Wayfarer
Dr. Norm Mowery, Pastor
May 29, 2011 (Special Music Sunday with Tapestry)
John 14:15-21
Jesus was a man on a mission. His mission was clear. But, did he have a mission statement?
Perhaps something such as the mission statement of Starbucks “to inspire and nurture the human spirit—one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.”
Kevin Starr helps businesses write clear and compelling mission statements and he gives some excellent advice to companies: They must express their mission in no more than eight words. That's the max: an eight-word mission statement.
Clear and compelling mission statements, using eight words or fewer, aren't likely to be forgotten or ignored.
So what should be included in a mission statement for the followers of Jesus, based on the words he spoke the night before his death? "If you love me," he says to his disciples, "you will keep my commandments."
Fortunately, Jesus includes several strong action words in this passage from John: love, keep, know, abide, see, live.
And he offers a clear target as well: the creation of a community of people who love Christ, keep his commandments and experience a truly amazing intimacy with Jesus. And what will be the outcome of this effort?
To receive the Holy Spirit - the continuing presence and power of Jesus Christ himself. A mission statement is slowly emerging, and it seems to be boiling down to eight essential words: Love Christ, keep his commandments, receive the Spirit. This is our purpose: Love Christ, keep his commandments, receive the Spirit. No jargon. Just eight words of authentic Christian mission.
