Our Values (Part 1) - Linda Bailey
On Sunday Linda Bailey shared a message looking at two of our church values. Below you’ll find a video and audio recording of her message at our 5.30pm service as well as a summary article with small group discussion questions.
Rediscovering Our Calling as Image Bearers: A Reflection on Linda Bailey's Sermon
Linda Bailey, a part of the ministry team at One Church Blackburn, recently delivered a compelling sermon at the 5:30 PM service, introducing the church’s focus for the start of 2025. With warmth and clarity, she revisited two of the church’s core values: a renewed humanity and a church of disciple-makers. Linda’s message emphasised the importance of keeping these values at the forefront of Christian living, not just as individuals but as a community of faith.
A Renewed Humanity: Reflecting God’s Image
Linda began by exploring the foundational concept of a renewed humanity, rooted in Genesis 1:26-28. This value calls for a multi-ethnic and multi-generational community that embodies the diversity and unity of God’s kingdom. She reminded the congregation that humanity was created as God’s image bearers—a living representation of His character, love, and creativity.
Drawing from theological insights, Linda explained that unlike other religions that use idols or statues to represent their deities, the God of the Bible created humans to reflect His image. This profound truth elevates the human purpose: to display God’s glory, kindness, and creativity in every aspect of life.
Diversity in God’s Design
Linda highlighted the intentional diversity in God’s creation. She compared it to a group decorating identical cookies with unique designs. Just as each cookie represented the decorator’s creativity, each person reflects God’s infinite variety. Our distinct gifts, personalities, and backgrounds showcase different facets of God’s nature.
The Challenge of Imperfection
Acknowledging the brokenness caused by sin, Linda pointed to Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Despite our imperfections, Jesus—the perfect image of God—offers restoration. By looking to Jesus’ life and example, believers can strive to live as reflections of God’s image. Linda emphasised the ongoing process of sanctification, where God’s Spirit works to renew us daily.
A Church of Disciple Makers: Living Out the Mission
Linda connected the call to a renewed humanity with the second value: being a church of disciple-makers. She shared that when believers authentically live as image bearers, they naturally draw others to Christ. This value aligns with the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
Down and Out: Shifting Focus
Linda recounted insights from a UK minister who stressed the need for churches to intentionally focus “down and out”—lowering the average age of congregations and increasing outward impact. Without deliberate effort, churches tend to age and become inward-focused. Linda encouraged the congregation to resist complacency and actively engage with their communities.
The Role of Influence
In today’s world, Linda noted, people are constantly influenced by social media and cultural trends. She urged the congregation to keep their focus on Jesus as the ultimate example of how to live. By aligning their lives with His teachings, believers can resist worldly distractions and become powerful witnesses to God’s transformative love.
Practical Takeaways
Linda’s sermon wasn’t just theological but deeply practical. She challenged the congregation to:
Reflect on their image: Are they living as true reflections of God’s character?
Focus on Jesus: How can His life guide their actions and decisions?
Engage in community: How can they contribute to a multi-ethnic, multi-generational church?
Embrace diversity: How can they celebrate the unique gifts and perspectives of others?
Live missionally: How can they intentionally share God’s love in their spheres of influence?
Questions for Reflection and Small Group Discussion
What does it mean to you personally to be an image bearer of God? How does this shape your daily life?
How can you celebrate and embrace the diversity of God’s creation in your community?
In what ways have you struggled to keep your focus on Jesus amid life’s distractions?
How can you contribute to making your church more outward-focused and inclusive?
What are practical ways to model kindness, generosity, hospitality, and forgiveness in your relationships?
How can you use your unique gifts and talents to reflect God’s character to those around you?
What steps can you take to live missionally and intentionally share God’s love in your workplace, school, or neighbourhood?
A Call to Action
Linda concluded with a powerful question: How is your image? This personal challenge invited each listener to reflect on their alignment with God’s purpose. By striving to live as image bearers and disciple-makers, believers can shine God’s light into the world, inviting others to experience His love and grace. As Linda reminded the congregation, our lives are not about making ourselves look good but about pointing others to the greatness of God.