Ministering: Pastor (Mrs.) Christy Utulu.
Glorious Women Ministry Annual
Text: Acts 9:36-42.
” 36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay coming to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he came, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.” KJV.
Tabitha (Dorcas) exemplified a woman after God’s Heart. James 1:23 likens God’s word to a mirror by which we make necessary adjustments to be more conformed to the image of Christ. Everything in scripture is meant to help us realign our lives to God. The Bible is filled with case studies of men and women that God used to manifest His Power and Love in creation.
Legacy can be defined as what you leave behind for people to remember you for. Legacy is the summary of your life; it is what you invested most of your time, resources and energy on. God’s word enjoins us to number our days and apply our heart unto wisdom.
From the few things the Bible revealed about Dorcas, here are some salient points about her legacy:
1. Dorcas was a Woman of Purpose
- She discovered God’s purpose for her life by being a disciple (follower) of Christ. Acts 9:36
- It is God’s purpose that should fuel your vision and passion in everything you are doing.
- Our first purpose is to be a disciple of Christ.
- God created us for Himself to give Him pleasure. Every other thing is secondary.
- Col. 1:16 says by Him were all things created.
- Rev. 4:11 says God has created all things for His pleasure
2. Dorcas was a Committed Disciple
- She was a chaser of God
- Her life exemplified a woman who gave priority to the things of God
- A disciple is a disciplined follower, who exercises restraints in many things. Matt. 7:13-14
3. Dorcas was a Sacrificial Disciple
- The Christian life is not about always living a convenient life but a Sacrificial life that adds value to people
- Heaven is for selfless people not self-centered people. Even Christ came to die for us (not for Himself)
- True disciples carry the burdens of others like Dorcas was doing in her local Church.
4. A Disciple is a Worshipper
- A disciple is a true worshipper – like David in Ps. 119:164
5. A Disciple should have a Servant Heart
- Dorcas was full of good works
- Titus 2:13-14 – Christ gave Himself for us so we could leave legacy of good works.
- Eph. 2:10 – We are His workmanship created unto good works
- Gal. 6:10 – Let us do good unto all
6. Dorcas built a Legacy of Love and Compassion
- John 13:34-35 – Love one another
- Col. 3:12-14 – Bear one another in love
7. Dorcas left a legacy of impactful living
8. Dorcas left the legacy of faith that moved God to act.
- Peter was deeply moved and provoked faith in his heart – Acts 9:39-41
- Her miracle brought faith to all around her.
9. Dorcas was a Seeker of God’s Kingdom
- Matt. 6:33 says We should seek God’s Kingdom, and all other things will be added to us
10. Dorcas was a Companion of Those Who fear The Lord
- David said he was a companion of them that fear and honor God – Ps. 119:63
11. Dorcas left a Legacy of a Life that pointed People to Jesus
- Her life yielded many to the Lord
12. Dorcas’ Life reveals what God can do for a faithful disciple through another faithful disciple
In Closing, the influence of Dorcas was greatly felt in her community. Her legacy inspired others to serve God. Her life was not defined by wealth she accumulated for herself but for what she invested into the lives of others. This is the legacy of one who is after God’s heart.
God Bless You!
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