Embracing Awe: Bold Faith and Transformative Moments

 

Summary

In today's gathering, we celebrated a profound moment of faith as three young ladies made their public profession of faith, marking a significant step in their spiritual journey. This act of faith is a testament to the work of God in their lives, initiated at their baptism and now brought to fruition as they declare their belief in Jesus Christ. This moment is not just a personal milestone for them but a communal celebration of God's promise and grace, as we witness the next generation embracing and living out their faith.

We reflected on the awe and reverence that should accompany our relationship with God, drawing from the story of the shepherds in Luke 2:8-20. The shepherds' encounter with the angel was marked by a profound sense of awe, a reverential fear that propelled them into immediate action. This awe is not about being scared but about recognizing the greatness of God and responding with boldness. The shepherds' response was immediate; they did not hesitate but hurried to witness the miracle of Christ's birth and then shared the good news with others.

This narrative challenges us to examine our own responses to God's call. Are we filled with awe and reverence for God? Do we act immediately when prompted by the Holy Spirit? The shepherds' story reminds us that boldness in faith begins with awe and leads to action and witness. We are called to be bold in our faith, to share the good news of Jesus with others, and to live out our faith in a way that reflects the transformative power of God's love.

As we continue in our series on Transformative Moments, we are reminded that these moments of obedience, surrender, and boldness can change not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. Let us strive to recapture the awe of God, take immediate steps of faith, and boldly share the good news of Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways:

- Awe and Reverence: The shepherds' story teaches us that true boldness in faith begins with a deep sense of awe and reverence for God. This awe is not about fear but about recognizing the greatness of God and responding with reverential obedience. [50:25]

- Immediate Action: When God calls, our response should be immediate. The shepherds did not delay; they hurried to see the miracle of Christ's birth. This teaches us that bold faith requires prompt action, not waiting for perfect conditions. [58:59]

- Bold Witness: The shepherds' encounter with Jesus led them to share the good news with others. Our bold responses to God's call should naturally lead to a bold witness, compelling us to share the transformative power of Jesus with those around us. [01:05:11]

- Recapturing Awe: If we find ourselves lacking boldness, it may be time to recapture our awe for God. This awe is foundational for a vibrant faith that is willing to take risks and step out in obedience to God's call. [01:08:16]

- Transformative Moments: Moments of obedience, surrender, and boldness can have a lasting impact, not only on our lives but also on the lives of others. By embracing these moments, we participate in God's transformative work in the world. [01:10:15]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [24:03] - Profession of Faith
- [25:21] - Baptism and God's Promise
- [27:02] - Romans 10:9-13
- [27:33] - Public Profession and Action
- [28:39] - Questions of Faith
- [29:31] - Apostles' Creed
- [30:30] - Blessing and Gifts
- [33:24] - Encouragement to Grow
- [38:03] - Announcements and Community
- [42:05] - Prayer for the Season
- [43:45] - Transformative Moments Series
- [45:11] - The Shepherds' Awe
- [49:37] - Terrified but Reverent
- [50:25] - Awe and Reverence
- [54:53] - Boldness Begins with Awe
- [58:59] - Immediate Action Required
- [01:05:11] - Bold Witness
- [01:08:16] - Recapturing Awe
- [01:10:15] - Transformative Moments
- [01:13:22] - Benediction and Closing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Luke 2:8-20
- Romans 10:9-13

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Observation Questions:

1. What was the initial reaction of the shepherds when the angel appeared to them, and how did this reaction change? ([45:11])
2. According to Romans 10:9-13, what are the two key actions required for salvation?
3. How did the shepherds respond after witnessing the birth of Jesus, and what did they do with the news they received? ([58:59])
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between awe and boldness in faith? ([54:53])

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of awe and reverence for God influence a believer's willingness to act boldly in faith? ([50:25])
2. In what ways does the shepherds' immediate response to the angel's message serve as a model for how believers should respond to God's call today? ([58:59])
3. How might the public profession of faith, as described in Romans 10:9-13, impact both the individual and the community of believers? ([27:33])
4. What does the sermon imply about the importance of sharing one's faith with others, and how does this relate to the shepherds' actions? ([01:05:11])

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt a sense of awe in your relationship with God. How did it affect your actions or decisions? ([54:53])
2. The shepherds acted immediately upon hearing the angel's message. Is there a situation in your life where you feel God is prompting you to act? What steps can you take to respond promptly? ([58:59])
3. Consider the public profession of faith made by the three young ladies in the sermon. How can you publicly affirm your faith in your daily life? ([27:33])
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the good news of Jesus. Identify one person in your life with whom you can share your faith this week. What approach will you take? ([01:05:11])
5. If you find yourself lacking boldness in your faith, what practical steps can you take to recapture a sense of awe and reverence for God? ([01:08:16])
6. How can you create moments of obedience, surrender, and boldness in your life that might have a transformative impact on those around you? ([01:10:15])
7. Reflect on the idea that bold faith requires immediate action. What is one area of your life where you can practice this principle more effectively? ([58:59])

Devotional

Day 1: Awe as the Foundation of Bold Faith
The story of the shepherds in Luke 2:8-20 illustrates that true boldness in faith begins with a deep sense of awe and reverence for God. This awe is not about fear but about recognizing the greatness of God and responding with reverential obedience. The shepherds were filled with awe when they encountered the angel, and this reverence propelled them into immediate action. They hurried to witness the miracle of Christ's birth and then shared the good news with others. This narrative challenges us to examine our own responses to God's call. Are we filled with awe and reverence for God? Do we act immediately when prompted by the Holy Spirit? The shepherds' story reminds us that boldness in faith begins with awe and leads to action and witness. [50:25]

"Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him! For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm." (Psalm 33:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a recent moment when you felt awe for God. How did it influence your actions, and how can you cultivate more moments of awe in your daily life?


Day 2: The Urgency of Immediate Action
When God calls, our response should be immediate. The shepherds did not delay; they hurried to see the miracle of Christ's birth. This teaches us that bold faith requires prompt action, not waiting for perfect conditions. Often, we hesitate or procrastinate, waiting for the right moment or more clarity. However, the shepherds' example shows us that when God prompts us, we should act without delay. Immediate action is a demonstration of our trust in God's timing and His plans for us. It is through these prompt responses that we witness the unfolding of God's miracles in our lives. [58:59]

"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring." (Proverbs 27:1, ESV)

Reflection: Is there something God has been prompting you to do that you've been putting off? What step can you take today to act on that prompting?


Day 3: Sharing the Good News with Boldness
The shepherds' encounter with Jesus led them to share the good news with others. Our bold responses to God's call should naturally lead to a bold witness, compelling us to share the transformative power of Jesus with those around us. The shepherds did not keep the news of Christ's birth to themselves; they spread the word, and all who heard it were amazed. This boldness in sharing the good news is a natural outflow of experiencing God's transformative power. We are called to be witnesses, to share our experiences of God's love and grace with others, and to invite them into the same transformative relationship with Jesus. [01:05:11]

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8, ESV)

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the good news of Jesus? How can you share your faith with them in a bold yet loving way this week?


Day 4: Recapturing the Awe of God
If we find ourselves lacking boldness, it may be time to recapture our awe for God. This awe is foundational for a vibrant faith that is willing to take risks and step out in obedience to God's call. Over time, the familiarity of our faith journey can cause us to lose the sense of wonder and reverence we once had. Recapturing this awe involves intentionally seeking God's presence, reflecting on His greatness, and allowing ourselves to be moved by His majesty. It is in these moments of awe that our faith is revitalized, and we are empowered to live boldly for Him. [01:08:16]

"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable." (Psalm 145:3, ESV)

Reflection: What practices or habits can you incorporate into your life to help you recapture a sense of awe for God?


Day 5: Embracing Transformative Moments
Moments of obedience, surrender, and boldness can have a lasting impact, not only on our lives but also on the lives of others. By embracing these moments, we participate in God's transformative work in the world. Each act of faith, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's plan. These transformative moments are opportunities for growth, both personally and communally. As we step out in faith, we become conduits of God's love and grace, impacting those around us and advancing His kingdom. Let us strive to embrace these moments with courage and trust in God's transformative power. [01:10:15]

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a recent moment when you felt God calling you to act in faith. How did you respond, and what impact did it have on you and those around you?

Quotes

"By publicly professing and affirming what Jesus has done and is continuing to do in your hearts, by making this profession of faith, you are not only believing what God says in his word, but you are putting that into action. By doing so, you agree with Paul that Jesus will not let you be put to shame, but you are also agreeing with Jesus' brother James when he wrote, What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith, but you do not show it by your actions?" [00:27:33] (31 seconds)


"This public profession is publicly acknowledging the saving work of God in you through the Holy Spirit. And by doing so, you, so putting yourself in a place where you are saying, I want to be a witness with my words and deeds for Jesus Christ. So today, ladies, we ask you these questions publicly. And if you agree, please respond with, I do." [00:28:39] (24 seconds)

"The act of salvation is from God. Like I said, by grace through faith. And this act of profession is to confirm what was started years ago by their parents. Today, we joyously welcome Morgan Randall, Madison Randall, and Reagan Dykstra into the family of Christ fully as they take this public step of professing their faith after being baptized as baby by their parents." [00:26:08] (27 seconds)


"As scripture says, anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame, for there is no difference between Jew and Gentile. The same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. That is what we just sang about. Your name, Jesus, is a strong and mighty tower. All who call on him will be saved. And these ladies did just that." [00:27:02] (31 seconds)


"We believe that it is God who does the work of regeneration in each person, but yet we are also to respond to that work that he does in us because of what Paul's words and Jesus's words say. In our tradition, that sign and seal that we believe that Jesus calls his followers to do is done in baptism, and it's done by God through a parent which is brought to joyous completion on days like today." [00:24:03] (30 seconds)


"The shepherds that we are looking at today. We're looking at Luke 2 8 through 20. So if you would open up your scriptures to Luke 2 and again as we get ready to read from the scriptures a reminder that not all the gospels have the whole christmas story mark and john are pretty absent of it to some extent but luke and matthew between the two they document fairly well and we're in the second chapter of luke and we are moving over to a time where it's about ready for his birth to happen and an angel again a third angel appears to another group of people after god being silent for over 400 years he starts speaking speaking and starting in chapter 8 we're just going to verse 8 we're just going to read through here and there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby keeping watch over their flocks at night an angel of the lord appeared to them and the glory of the lord shone around them and they were terrified but the angel said to them do not be afraid i bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people today in the town of david a savior has been born to you he is christ the lord this will be a sign to you you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel praising god and saying glory to god in the highest and on earth peace to men whom on whom his favor rests when the angels had left them and gone into heaven the shepherds said to one another let's go to bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the lord has told us about so they hurried off and found mary and joseph and the baby who was lying in the manger when they had seen him they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them but mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart the shepherds returned glorifying and praising god for all the things that they had heard and seen which were just as had been told as we begin to take a look at the shepherds bold response we need to see where their bold response started from and it started with awe it started with this sense of oh my goodness this i gotta do and you think about it in a moment it says that when they were in luke 2 9 it says that an angel of the lord appeared to them and the glory of the lord shone around them and they were terrified now this terrified in my mind when i read the word terrified that that word to me says scared out of your mind maybe a little p coming out right i mean that's kind of it right it's like you're just so scared i remember being a child in my mom and dad's house sleeping in the middle of the night and all of a sudden you hear this you're like what was that and you're still kind of sleeping and you think it's like dreaming and then you hear this again and then the realization happens it's a bat" [00:45:11] (0 seconds)


"All this to say that as we begin to be bold for Jesus, we need to first have that awe, that phobeo, the terrified, in a good way, of the Lord. Not scared that we're going to be struck down and punished, but because we're in the presence of someone so great that we just can't be normalized. There's a little bit of nervousness. Have you experienced that with God? We should." [00:54:53] (43 seconds)


"Because if we're going to be bold for Jesus, that is where we need to start. All of us need to be there. And I remember, and I've shared this story before, reading Scripture when God was drawing me to Him, reading Paul's letters to the churches in Corinth, in Rome, Galatia, and he's bringing these accounts against them, saying, this is what's wrong within you. You're not following God this way. You're not doing these things right. You are not doing this. You're not doing this. But all the while, calling them to repentance and reverence to God. And I remember sitting in my parents' basement, reading this when I couldn't sleep in the middle of the night, and having this realization going, uh -oh. It's me." [00:55:25] (55 seconds)


"That's where the beginning of the wisdom happens is the fear of the lord see our awe it inspires our boldness when we recognize of the greatness of the one who calls you and me that god that we worship that we've sung about that the girls profess their faith in that is this god who came to the shepherds and before we can be bold in our accounting for christ we need to have that fear of the lord fear reverence and awe of him but in that same vein once we have that when the holy spirit speaks to you and me what the shepherds did they didn't sit and talk about it well should we go i don't know the traffic's terrible this time of night i mean there's camels everywhere well they didn't say any of that they just went and that's our next point is that bold response it requires immediate action now i'll get to it one day if the timing's right but go now" [00:58:59] (83 seconds)


"if you hear his voice stop do go do it don't do it whatever like don't harden our hearts be attentive to the holy spirit see boldness it doesn't wait for the perfect conditions it moves at god's prompting that's what the shepherds did again i'm sure they could have had a million excuses not to go what about our sheep what's going to happen someone's got to stay here but they went they were bold they listened and they did so they were in awe and then they followed that up with a bold reaction of that awe but then it didn't stop there they just didn't go and here's the next thing that happened is that bold responsing or responses they lead to a bold witness" [01:05:11] (65 seconds)


"show you where i get that from in luke 2 17 through 18 it says when they had seen him jesus they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them they were in awe they moved they shared and all were amazed at what god did that's what happens when we have a bold response for jesus i was going to ask ken smiths if i could share this story but sorry ken i didn't ask you i'm just going to share this story that you told me the other day about the gentleman you ran into in madison um ken was sitting and i'm not sure exactly where you were sitting waiting and um i saw a gentleman with a cross around his neck and he asked you go to church he said well no and he started sharing a little bit about jesus and you need to get into a church so ken being bold sure feeling prompted by the spirit churches that were close by and it was a satellite church of my old church at door creek he says he pulled up on his phone he pulled the pastor he says this is the pastor of that church you should go" [01:08:16] (92 seconds)


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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?