Worship with us 9 + 11 AM 390 N 400 E Bountiful, UT 84010. For more information or to get connected, please visit: www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit Why does the church exist and what is its purpose in our lives today? In this opening message of the Why Church series, we explore Matthew 4:18–22 and uncover the heart behind Jesus’ call to His first disciples. This sermon challenges us to rethink what the church truly is and why it matters, not just as a place we attend, but as a people called into a shared mission. As Jesus walks along the Sea of Galilee, He calls ordinary fishermen to follow Him. With just a few words, everything changes. They leave behind their nets, their livelihoods, and their plans to step into something far greater. This moment is not just a historical event. It is a picture of what it means to follow Jesus today. His call is not simply to believe something, improve our lives, or participate in a religious routine. His call is to Himself. In this sermon, we unpack three powerful phrases from Jesus’ invitation. First, follow me. This is a call into relationship, not performance. Jesus does not ask for credentials or perfection. He calls people as they are and invites them to walk with Him. This reminds us that the foundation of the church is not built on what we do for God, but on being with Jesus. Second, I will make you. This is a promise of transformation. In a world that constantly tells us we must earn acceptance through achievement, success, or self improvement, Jesus offers something radically different. He takes responsibility for our growth and change. Transformation is not something we manufacture. It is something we receive as we surrender to Him. This is the heart of the gospel. Third, fishers of people. This is a call to purpose. Jesus does not separate following Him from living on mission. He gives His followers a new identity and a shared calling to invite others into relationship with Him. This is not a task reserved for a few. It is a defining part of what it means to be the church. As we follow Jesus, we help others encounter Him as well. This message also clarifies what the church is and what it is not. The church is not a building, a program, or a weekly event. It is the community of people who have surrendered their lives to Jesus across all time. When we understand this, everything changes. Church is no longer something we attend. It is who we are. Throughout this sermon, we are reminded that God’s mission is to draw people to Himself, and He has chosen to work through His people to accomplish that purpose. This includes both our individual lives and our life together as a church family. Whether it is through everyday relationships, serving others, or creating opportunities for people to encounter Jesus, we are invited to participate in what God is already doing. If you have ever wondered why church matters, struggled with feeling disconnected, or questioned your purpose as a follower of Jesus, this message will challenge and encourage you. It calls us to move beyond passive faith and step into a life of intentional discipleship and mission. Join us as we begin this series and rediscover what it means to follow Jesus, be transformed by Him, and live on mission together as His church.