God Wants To Give Us First Love for Jesus (Clip)
Gary Wilkerson passionately calls believers to rekindle their first love for Jesus, prioritizing a deep, personal relationship over mere religious routine.
This sermon emphasizes a deep desire for a genuine and intimate relationship with Jesus, expressing a longing to prioritize Him above all else, including religious routines and distractions. The speaker seeks to rekindle their first love for Christ, desiring to walk closely, talk, and commune with Him, yearning for a personal encounter with His presence and glory.
Full Transcript
Thank you for you Jesus. I ask for your presence God. I don't want to play church tonight.
I don't want to do religion tonight. I don't want the same old same old tonight. I don't want second things in first place anymore.
I don't want to lose first love. I don't want the seven candlesticks to be a priority in my life. I want the one in the middle to be the one thing for me.
I want to love you more Jesus. I want to know you more Jesus. I want to walk with you more Jesus.
I want to talk with you more Jesus. I want to see your face. I want to behold your glory.
I want to gaze into your eyes. I want to see your light and your revelation. God I want your word to come alive to me.
I want to seek you and Lord I thank you in return. Oh how gracious that you say I want to come to you.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Rejecting superficial religion and routine
- Desiring genuine presence of God
- Avoiding second things in first place
-
II
- Longing to restore first love for Jesus
- Prioritizing Jesus over other spiritual matters
- Focusing on the central candle (Jesus) rather than the seven candlesticks
-
III
- Seeking deeper intimacy with Jesus
- Wanting to know, love, walk, and talk with Jesus more
- Yearning to behold God's glory and revelation
-
IV
- Praying for God's word to come alive
- Thanking God for His gracious invitation
- Committing to seek God wholeheartedly
Key Quotes
“I don't want to play church tonight. I don't want to do religion tonight.” — Gary Wilkerson
“I don't want second things in first place anymore.” — Gary Wilkerson
“I want to love you more Jesus. I want to know you more Jesus. I want to walk with you more Jesus.” — Gary Wilkerson
Application Points
- Examine your heart to ensure Jesus remains your highest priority above all else.
- Cultivate daily habits of prayer and seeking God's presence to deepen intimacy with Him.
- Reject empty religious routines and pursue a genuine, living relationship with Jesus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'first love' mean in this sermon?
It refers to the initial passionate and intimate love for Jesus that believers are encouraged to restore and prioritize above all else.
Why does Gary Wilkerson reject 'playing church' or 'religion'?
He emphasizes the importance of genuine relationship with God rather than going through religious motions or routines.
What is the significance of the 'seven candlesticks' and 'one in the middle'?
They symbolize distractions or secondary priorities, while the 'one in the middle' represents Jesus, who should be the believer's central focus.
How can one rekindle their first love for Jesus?
By seeking God earnestly, desiring deeper intimacy, and prioritizing Him above all else in daily life.
What role does prayer play in this message?
Prayer is a vital expression of longing for God's presence and a way to invite His word and revelation to come alive in the believer's heart.