Vision
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class opened with a warm welcome and a reflection on the excitement and uncertainty that accompany the end of 2017 and the approach of 2018. Richard Sutton shifted the focus from typical New Year's resolutions to a deeper concept: vision. He explained that vision is a biblical principle, citing Proverbs 29:18 – “Where there is no vision, the people perish” – and described vision as an act of anticipating, dreaming, and hoping for what God intends for individuals and the church. Sutton illustrated the power of vision through secular and historical examples, such as Columbus’s voyage, the Pilgrims’ journey for religious freedom, the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Oregon Trail migration, and the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. Each narrative highlighted how a clear, God‑inspired vision motivated people to overcome fear, sacrifice, and hardship. He concluded by urging the congregation to engage in introspection, develop a shared vision for the church’s future, and move forward with confidence in God’s plans for 2018 and beyond.
Key Scriptures
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.