Podcast Summary: 2819 Church - Episode: "WISDOM & WONDER | Leave The Ninety Nine | Matthew 18:10-14 | Philip Anthony Mitchell"

Release Date: January 4, 2025
Host/Author: 2819 Church
Speaker: Philip Anthony Mitchell

Introduction

In this impactful episode of the 2819 Church podcast, Philip Anthony Mitchell delves deep into Matthew 18:10-14, unpacking the profound lessons embedded within these scriptures. Titled "Leave The Ninety Nine," Mitchell emphasizes the intrinsic value each individual holds in God's eyes and the church's responsibility to nurture and protect its members. Through personal anecdotes, biblical exegesis, and passionate exhortations, Mitchell seeks to inspire listeners to foster a compassionate and vigilant Christian community.

Honoring Community Service

[00:01]
Mitchell begins by acknowledging Ms. Brittany Timmons, the director of outreach for 2819 Church. He highlights the importance of Serve M25, an outreach ministry inspired by Matthew 25, which calls believers to actively care for the less fortunate.

“Outreach is not something we want to mobilize you to do. Outreach is not something we want to be organized. We want it to be a life that you live.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [00:45]

Mitchell underscores the church's mission to extend Christ's love beyond its walls, urging members to be "His tangible hands and feet in our city."

Personal Testimony and Prayer

Mitchell shares a heartfelt prayer, confessing his own struggles and seeking God's strength to communicate His word effectively. He reflects on his past feelings of worthlessness and isolation, emphasizing God's unwavering love and the church's role in supporting one another.

“Lord, we pray that you would not just be a church gathering in the city of Atlanta, but that the people outside these four walls will feel the love of Jesus through our presence.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [02:30]

Understanding Matthew 18:10-14

Mitchell introduces the core scripture of the episode, Matthew 18:10-14, explaining its significance in establishing the foundational doctrines for New Testament communities. He meticulously breaks down each verse, offering insights into Jesus' teachings on humility, sin, and community responsibility.

The Value of Every Believer

[14:39]
Mitchell emphasizes that every member of the church is precious to God, likening them to "little ones" who are constantly under the watchful eyes of angels.

“Do not despise one of these little ones... because in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [14:41]

He recounts the biblical story of Peter's imprisonment and God's miraculous intervention through an angel, illustrating God's commitment to rescuing and valuing each believer.

“When Herod was about to bring him out... an angel of the Lord stood next to Peter.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [16:10]

The Call to Shepherd One Another

Mitchell urges the church to take active responsibility in shepherding fellow believers, especially those who stray or fall into sin. He draws parallels between the shepherd's pursuit of a lost sheep and the church's duty to seek out and restore lost members.

“Go and get them. Don’t let anybody wander from the flock.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [55:30]

He shares his personal testimony of feeling abandoned and how a pivotal "me moment" led to his salvation and subsequent ministry, reinforcing the importance of community intervention.

Practical Applications

Mitchell provides actionable steps for listeners to embody the teachings of Matthew 18:

1. Recognize the Value of Every Member: Avoid despising or devaluing anyone within the church, regardless of their current state or past mistakes.
2. Active Outreach: Engage in proactive measures to support and retrieve those who have wandered or are struggling.
3. Cultivate Humility: Embrace a childlike and humble spirit, prioritizing love and compassion over power and prestige.

“Greatness is synonymous with humility. Not platforms, not microphones, not books and conferences. People are great who are childlike in nature.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [45:20]

Conclusion and Call to Action

In his concluding remarks, Mitchell reiterates the urgency of embracing these teachings as the church prepares for Christ's return. He passionately calls on listeners to embody a pastoral heart, ensuring that no member is left behind or forgotten.

“The Lord is using language from Palestine... go and get the one who has wandered.”
— Philip Anthony Mitchell [58:15]

The episode concludes with a powerful testimonial from Colin, a member who shares his gratitude for Mitchell's intervention during a dark period in his life, exemplifying the very principles discussed throughout the sermon.

“Someday for you, you'll look back and see why your me moment happened.”
— Colin [61:49]

Key Takeaways

• Intrinsic Value: Every believer is precious to God, deserving of love and care.
• Community Responsibility: The church must actively seek out and support members who are struggling or have wandered.
• Humility and Childlikeness: True greatness in the kingdom of heaven is achieved through humility and a simple, trusting heart.
• Divine Intervention: God continually works through individuals to protect and restore His flock.

Notable Quotes

• Philip Anthony Mitchell [00:45]: “Outreach is not something we want to mobilize you to do. Outreach is not something we want to be organized. We want it to be a life that you live.”

• Philip Anthony Mitchell [14:41]: “Do not despise one of these little ones... because in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.”

• Philip Anthony Mitchell [45:20]: “Greatness is synonymous with humility. Not platforms, not microphones, not books and conferences. People are great who are childlike in nature.”

• Philip Anthony Mitchell [55:30]: “Go and get them. Don’t let anybody wander from the flock.”

• Colin [61:49]: “Someday for you, you'll look back and see why your me moment happened.”

This episode of the 2819 Church podcast serves as a compelling reminder of the church's mission to uphold and cherish every member, fostering a community rooted in humility, love, and active support. Philip Anthony Mitchell's heartfelt delivery and profound insights provide listeners with both spiritual nourishment and practical guidance for living out their faith in tangible ways.