Embracing Closeness with God: Authority and Purpose
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound theme of closeness with God, drawing inspiration from the story of Moses and Joshua in Exodus 33. We began by acknowledging God's unwavering faithfulness and His miraculous power, which remains as potent today as it was in biblical times. This led us to reflect on the importance of having a designated "tent of meeting" in our lives—a place where we intentionally seek God's presence with expectant faith. Moses named his place of encounter with God the "tent of meeting," and we are encouraged to do the same with our own spaces, whether it's a corner of our home or a moment during our daily routine.
We delved into the story of Joshua, who, as a young man, exemplified a deep love for God's presence. Joshua's commitment to staying in the tent of meeting, even when Moses returned to the camp, highlights the importance of dwelling in God's presence. This closeness with God equipped Joshua with spiritual authority, enabling him to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land and witness extraordinary miracles. We are reminded that spiritual authority is not about our qualifications or talents but about a heart fully committed to God.
The sermon also emphasized the authority we have as believers. We are co-heirs with Christ, carrying His authority to impact the world around us. This authority is not for building our own kingdoms but for advancing God's kingdom, making disciples, and reflecting His glory. We are called to step into this authority, to pray and worship with power, and to live as image bearers of God.
Finally, we were challenged to recognize the enemy's attempts to keep us from living out this authority. By staying close to God and embracing our identity as His image bearers, we can overcome these challenges and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom.
Key Takeaways:
- Expectant Faith and Meeting with God: Just as Moses named his place of encounter the "tent of meeting," we are encouraged to create our own spaces of meeting with God, approaching Him with expectant faith that He will meet us there. This intentionality fosters a deeper relationship with God and opens the door to experiencing His presence in powerful ways. [41:45]
- Joshua's Example of Closeness: Joshua's love for God's presence and his refusal to leave the tent of meeting illustrate the importance of dwelling in God's presence. This closeness equipped him with spiritual authority, enabling him to lead and witness miracles. We are reminded that our authority comes from our relationship with God, not our abilities. [44:21]
- Authority as Co-Heirs with Christ: As believers, we carry the authority of Christ, enabling us to impact the world for His kingdom. This authority is not for building our own kingdoms but for making disciples and reflecting God's glory. We are called to step into this authority and live as image bearers of God. [49:17]
- Overcoming the Enemy's Lies: The enemy seeks to keep us from living out our authority by distracting and isolating us. By staying close to God and embracing our identity as His image bearers, we can overcome these challenges and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom. [01:01:15]
- Living with Purpose and Authority: God's authority on our lives is meant to enable us to walk in the greater things He has called us to. This authority is for others, to build His kingdom and see lives changed. We are encouraged to recognize and step into this authority, living with purpose and impacting the world for Christ. [01:05:30]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:45] - Opening Prayer and Worship
- [02:30] - Invitation to Easter Services
- [05:15] - Introduction to "Face to Face" Series
- [07:00] - The Tent of Meeting
- [09:30] - Joshua's Love for God's Presence
- [12:00] - Encouragement for Young People
- [14:30] - Joshua's Miracles and Leadership
- [17:00] - God's Authority and Our Role
- [20:00] - Spiritual Authority and Image Bearing
- [23:00] - Overcoming the Enemy's Lies
- [26:00] - Living with Purpose and Authority
- [29:00] - Call to Action and Prayer
- [32:00] - Invitation to Follow Jesus
- [35:00] - Closing Prayer and Celebration
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Exodus 33:7-11
- Numbers 27:18-19
- Joshua 1:3
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Observation Questions:
1. What did Moses call the place where he met with God, and why is this significant? [41:45]
2. How did Joshua's behavior in the tent of meeting demonstrate his love for God's presence? [44:21]
3. According to Numbers 27:18-19, what specific quality did God highlight in Joshua when appointing him as a leader?
4. What promise did God give Joshua in Joshua 1:3, and how does it relate to his leadership journey?
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of a "tent of meeting" apply to modern believers in their daily lives? [41:45]
2. In what ways did Joshua's time in God's presence prepare him for leadership and witnessing miracles? [44:21]
3. What does it mean to carry God's authority as a believer, and how does this authority differ from worldly authority? [49:17]
4. How can believers recognize and overcome the enemy's attempts to undermine their spiritual authority? [01:01:15]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your daily routine. Is there a specific place or time you can designate as your "tent of meeting" with God? How can you make this a consistent practice? [41:45]
2. Joshua's love for God's presence was evident in his actions. How can you cultivate a deeper love for God's presence in your own life? [44:21]
3. Consider the authority you have as a co-heir with Christ. How can you use this authority to impact your community or workplace this week? [49:17]
4. Identify a specific lie or distraction the enemy uses to keep you from living out your spiritual authority. What steps can you take to overcome it? [01:01:15]
5. Think of a situation where you need to step into God's authority. What practical steps can you take to approach this situation with confidence and faith? [01:05:30]
6. How can you encourage others in your small group or community to recognize and walk in their God-given authority?
7. Reflect on a recent challenge or decision. How might viewing it through the lens of being an image bearer of God change your approach or attitude? [54:39]
Devotional
Day 1: Creating Sacred Spaces for Divine Encounters
In the story of Moses and the "tent of meeting," we see the importance of having a designated space to encounter God. This space is not just physical but also a mental and spiritual posture of expectant faith. By intentionally setting aside time and space to meet with God, we open ourselves to His presence and allow Him to work in our lives in powerful ways. This practice is not about the location itself but about the heart's readiness to seek and experience God. As we create these sacred spaces, we cultivate a deeper relationship with God, inviting His transformative power into our daily lives. [41:45]
Exodus 33:7 (ESV): "Now Moses used to take the tent and pitch it outside the camp, far off from the camp, and he called it the tent of meeting. And everyone who sought the Lord would go out to the tent of meeting, which was outside the camp."
Reflection: What specific time and place can you set aside this week to intentionally seek God's presence, and how can you prepare your heart to meet Him there?
Day 2: Dwelling in God's Presence for Spiritual Authority
Joshua's example of staying in the tent of meeting, even when Moses left, highlights the significance of dwelling in God's presence. This closeness with God equipped Joshua with spiritual authority, enabling him to lead the Israelites and witness extraordinary miracles. Our authority as believers is not derived from our abilities or qualifications but from our relationship with God. By prioritizing time in His presence, we align ourselves with His will and receive the strength and guidance needed to fulfill our calling. This spiritual authority empowers us to impact the world around us for God's kingdom. [44:21]
Joshua 1:5 (ESV): "No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you."
Reflection: How can you prioritize dwelling in God's presence this week, and what steps can you take to deepen your relationship with Him to receive spiritual authority?
Day 3: Embracing Our Authority as Co-Heirs with Christ
As believers, we are co-heirs with Christ, carrying His authority to impact the world for His kingdom. This authority is not for building our own kingdoms but for making disciples and reflecting God's glory. We are called to step into this authority, living as image bearers of God and advancing His kingdom on earth. By embracing our identity in Christ, we can pray and worship with power, knowing that we are equipped to fulfill the mission God has given us. This authority is a gift, and we are encouraged to use it to bring about transformation in the lives of those around us. [49:17]
Ephesians 2:6 (ESV): "And raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: In what ways can you step into your authority as a co-heir with Christ this week, and how can you use this authority to impact those around you for God's kingdom?
Day 4: Overcoming the Enemy's Lies Through Closeness with God
The enemy seeks to keep us from living out our authority by distracting and isolating us. However, by staying close to God and embracing our identity as His image bearers, we can overcome these challenges. Our closeness with God equips us to recognize and reject the lies of the enemy, allowing us to walk in the truth of who we are in Christ. This relationship with God is our source of strength and protection, enabling us to fulfill our purpose in His kingdom. By remaining rooted in His presence, we can stand firm against the enemy's schemes and live victoriously. [01:01:15]
James 4:7-8 (ESV): "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you."
Reflection: What lies of the enemy have you been believing, and how can you draw closer to God this week to overcome these lies and embrace your true identity in Christ?
Day 5: Living with Purpose and Authority for God's Kingdom
God's authority on our lives is meant to enable us to walk in the greater things He has called us to. This authority is for others, to build His kingdom and see lives changed. We are encouraged to recognize and step into this authority, living with purpose and impacting the world for Christ. By aligning our lives with God's will and embracing our role as His image bearers, we can make a significant difference in the world around us. Our purpose is not just for our benefit but for the advancement of God's kingdom, and we are called to live out this purpose with intentionality and passion. [01:05:30]
2 Corinthians 5:20 (ESV): "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take this week to live with purpose and authority for God's kingdom, and how can you intentionally impact the lives of those around you for Christ?
Quotes
Come on, that you are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Come on, the same God that worked miracles back then is working miracles today. Come on, what are you believing for today, this morning? What miracles are you believing for today? Come on, if you're believing for a miracle in your life, in someone else's life. Come on, would you stretch a hand to heaven, Jesus, right now? Now, we pray for your provision. We thank you that you are good. We thank you, God, that you are moving today. Thank you, Father, that, Lord, you're not distant, but you're close. [00:33:51] (35 seconds)
And anyone in crying of the Lord would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp. I want to hit this again. I know Pastor Shane has talked about this already, but come on, I never had caught this until we looked at this series. I love that Moses had the faith to call it, what? The place of meeting. God didn't call it the place of meeting. God didn't call it the tent of meeting. Moses called it the tent of meeting. Come on, what would it look like for us to have expectant faith that where we go to the Lord, that we know that we are going to meet with God? [00:42:44] (34 seconds)
And the Lord would speak to Moses face to face. Face to face as one speaks to a friend. Can we grasp that just a little more today? Right, that God calls us friend. Right, that the king of kings, the one who reigns, he is the name above all names, Lord of lords. He calls us friend. And he wants to meet with you. He wants to meet with me like this. Like we would talk in the lobby. He wants to meet with you. Just this beautiful picture of closeness. [00:44:03] (35 seconds)
See, there was this young man. His name was Josh or Joshua. He was Moses' assistant, his right-hand man. And what we learn right from this scripture here is that Joshua loved the presence of God. He loved being around God. He didn't want to leave the tent. Joshua didn't want to leave God's presence. And he's a young man with a heart and a fire for God. [00:44:50] (35 seconds)
And Joshua, he would go on to lead the people of Israel into the promised land. And man, I got to tell you, Joshua saw some all-time miracles. Joshua saw some all-time miracles. I don't know if you know the story of the walls of Jericho, but that was Joshua. March around the walls to even time, blow the trumpets. And what happens? The walls fall down. I don't know if you know this story, but Joshua had the sun stand still. What? [00:47:06] (32 seconds)
And the Lord said to Moses, take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit. Everyone say Spirit. Come on, everyone say Spirit. And lay your hand on him and set him before the priest and before all the congregation and inaugurate him in their sight. See, what's happening here? God makes Joshua the leader. And what does he specifically call out? What does he call out? He says, a man in whom is the Spirit. He carries me. He carries my authority. [00:48:27] (48 seconds)
And see, what I'm attempting to tee up this morning is this idea of God's authority, authority, and more specifically, the spiritual authority that we as believers in Jesus carry. Come on, that God has placed an authority on our lives, and all we need to do is step into it. Come on, to step in. See, Joshua understood this authority. He operated out of this authority. Authority, why? Because he knew the Father. He spent time in the presence. He was at the tent. [00:54:23] (39 seconds)
see time in God's presence makes us image bearers we carry his likeness we carry his authority we reflect him in the world and see I'm concerned that we've become a people who don't walk in or operate in the authority that God has given us and see maybe that's because we didn't even know that was a thing come on did you know that God has given us authority let me show you with some verses here some scripture Genesis 1 26 right at the beginning it says this then God said let us make man in our image after our likeness and let them have dominion [00:55:10] (43 seconds)
I am with you you have been sent with authority come on one more Romans 8 16 and 17 it says this the Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children now if we are children then we are heirs heirs of God co-heirs with Christ come on do we know what that means come on we are co-heirs with Jesus that means we have the same power and the same authority to pray and to see God move just as Jesus prayed we have that same authority come on what would happen if as Christians we began to operate out of this authority [00:56:42] (45 seconds)
And maybe you go to those places and maybe you do those things. But then often you're hit with a voice. Who do you think you are? Who do you think you are? Come on, we've been there. Right? We've been serving for a while. Who do you think you are? You want to get an invitation to a friend. Who do you think you are? And that's why we need to stay in God's presence, to stay close to Him. And this is where I want to come full circle, that authority comes out of closeness. [01:00:42] (40 seconds)
And if you can, make some time to join us next Sunday, April 27th from 6 to 7 at HQ. We're just praying and believing for God to move. We're praying and believing for a building. But come on, if you are struggling to find your tent of meeting, come on, just start by coming to pray with us. And you might be thinking, well, Pastor Andy, what does this look like in my life? What does this mean for me? Why does this matter? Well, see, like most things in the kingdom, the thing we step into, the authority that we step into, is not for our benefit, but for God's. [01:04:02] (42 seconds)
And the authority that God has given us is not so that we can build our own thing, but so that we can step into the thing that God has called us to. Come on, that we can see miracles, that we can see breakthrough, that we can see lives changed. Come on, it's too important to ignore. It's too important to ignore. And so God's authority on your life is to enable you to walk in the greater thing He's called you to. It's for someone else. It's for others. Come on, it's always been for others. [01:05:30] (40 seconds)
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