Sailing to the Nations to Finish the Task
John Piper passionately calls believers to embrace a sacrificial, Spirit-powered holy ambition to advance the Great Commission, urging them to live purposefully for God's glory in world evangelization.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a holy ambition in life, whether as a sacrificial goer or sender for the completion of the Great Commission. It highlights the need to be driven by the Holy Spirit, to deny oneself for a greater purpose, and to meet the immeasurable needs of the world through gospel preaching. The sermon also clarifies the distinction between missionaries and pastors, urging individuals to discern their unique calling and pursue it with passion and dedication.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Call to Sacrificial Commitment
- Deny self and take up the cross as Jesus commands
- Choose to be a sacrificial goer or sender in world evangelization
- Reject a life of indifference or coasting in the Christian journey
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II. The Metaphor of the Sailboat
- Christian life is a sailboat, not a motorboat
- Lift the mast and stretch the sails to catch the Spirit's wind
- Ensure ballast in the boat to withstand storms and remain steadfast
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III. The Centrality of God's Glory
- God's passion for His fame among the nations is the ballast
- The cross magnifies God's glory by saving sinners
- World missions is the declaration of God's glory among the nations
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IV. Developing a Holy Ambition
- Paul’s ambition to preach where Christ was not named as a model
- A holy ambition controls and directs life choices
- Each believer’s ambition is unique and tailor-made by God
Key Quotes
“A life of sacrifice is not a life of unhappiness. We deny ourselves things that would diminish our delights in God through serving people.” — John Piper
“It's not a motorboat. It's a sailboat, and the mast is to put these yards out here, drop the sails, be filled with the Spirit, and driven in His power across the sea of life for a good and holy purpose.” — John Piper
“I make it my ambition to preach the Gospel not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Pray for God to give you a clear, holy ambition that aligns your life with His purposes.
- Choose to live sacrificially, denying lesser pleasures to serve God and others more fully.
- Engage actively in world missions, whether by going, sending, praying, or supporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does John Piper mean by 'holy ambition'?
A holy ambition is a God-centered, Spirit-driven purpose that controls and directs a believer’s life toward advancing the gospel and glorifying God.
Why does Piper emphasize sacrificial living in missions?
Because following Jesus requires denying self and taking up the cross, meaning believers must be willing to sacrifice personal desires for the greater joy of serving God and others.
Is everyone called to be a missionary goer?
No, Piper distinguishes between sacrificial goers and senders, affirming that not all are called to go, but all should support and participate in world evangelization in some way.
How can young people overcome cultural obstacles to developing a holy ambition?
By recognizing the cultural delays in adulthood and choosing to grow up spiritually and take responsibility early, embracing a purposeful life for God’s glory.
Where does one find the foundation for a holy ambition?
Holy ambition is rooted in Scripture, as Paul demonstrates by grounding his mission in Old Testament prophecy and the call of Christ.