We begin a NEW sermon series this week entitled: “The Playlist of Life”. Preaching from Nathan Gordon.

Sermon Notes

Today is the launch of a brand-new series entitled – The Playlist of Life. Songwriters throughout history have used music to express the issues, joys, pain, and frustrations of the heart. From the Bible to Christian and secular songs, you will find there’s a song in this world that is relevant to your current season in life today.

Quick challenge – think of a song that currently fits your season in life today?

Track One

Today’s track is best known as the soundtrack for the 1971 James Bond film entitled Diamonds Are Forever. The film is based on the investigation of a criminal enterprise surrounding the procurement of diamonds. The goal was to acquire the diamonds to build a giant laser which would make the gang extremely wealthy.

Shirley Bassey’s soundtrack song for the movie depicts the pursuit and desire to have something that lasts forever. The lyrics summarise the pursuit of humanity today, as people are looking for fulfilment and satisfaction.

Snippets from the song

Diamonds are forever

They won’t leave in the night
I’ve no fear that they might desert me

I can see every part
Nothing hides in the heart to hurt me

I don’t need love
For what good will love do me?
Diamonds never lie to me
For when love’s gone
They’ll luster on

Diamonds are forever
Sparkling ’round my little finger
Unlike men, the diamonds linger
Men are mere mortals who
Are not worth going to your grave for

Recognise the difference between death and life – v1

Realise the difference between a counterfeit and a genuine diamond  – v2-3

Remember where you are going in Christ (HEAVEN) – v6-10

Challenge – Eternal life is guaranteed to all of humanity, but the question is where will we spend our eternal lives? If we reject the fake diamond of this world (Satan) and embrace the true light of the world (Jesus) then we can be assured of our salvation through Christ. (See 2 Thess 1:9)

Questions

1. Before you came to know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, what knowledge did you have of the devil and his influence in the world?

2. Take a look at these lyrics of the song – I don’t need love
For what good will love do me?
Diamonds never lie to me
For when love’s gone
They’ll luster on

Why do you think many have turned away from the possibility of finding true and unconditional love in replace of other things in this life?

3. (Hypothetical Question) If you were to ask non-Christians the question – Who is the devil and what influence does he have in the world today, what do you think some of the answers will be?

4. What reasons have you heard people give for the direction they’re going in life? What forces lure or compel people to go in the wrong direction spiritually and convince them to cheerfully remain there with a false confidence that everything is, okay?

5. (Read verses 8-10)Why do you think it is hard for people to accept God’s grace as a free gift? When is it difficult for you to be a recipient of God’s grace?

Service Details

Sermon Title: Diamonds are Forever
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-20
Preacher: Nathan Gordon
Worship Leader: Nathan Gordon

Service Audio here

View Service Video here