Embracing Eternal Life Through Faith in Jesus
Summary
In the sermon, I was reminded that if we have trusted in Jesus Christ, nothing can snatch us from his hand. This eternal life is a gift that cannot be taken away by any power on heaven, earth, or below the earth. However, it is crucial to ensure that we are in eternal life and have this eternal life. The Bible says in Romans 3:23 that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, separated by the sin nature inherited from Adam and Eve. This condition leaves us devoid of hope and meaning, with no God in our hearts. But with Jesus, we have life, hope, and a church. We must first admit that we're sinners, believe that Jesus died and rose again from the dead, and then commit our lives to him. This is what will save us and give us life.
The sermon also highlighted the importance of knowing Jesus Christ. We don't want to spend eternity without Jesus, so in this life, we get to know him. We spend our time on our knees, spreading the gospel, and learning the word. The sermon also touched on the life of Jean, a woman who has dedicated her life to knowing Jesus Christ and sharing his ministry. Jean is a shining light, a beacon that points the way to Jesus Christ. Her faith was formed in the fires of revival, and she has tasted deeply of the love of Jesus Christ. She has poured out this love into her family and her church, spending many years on her knees.
Key Takeaways:
- Eternal life is a gift that cannot be taken away, but it is crucial to ensure that we have this eternal life. We must admit that we're sinners, believe in Jesus' resurrection, and commit our lives to him. #!!48:41!!#
- Knowing Jesus Christ is essential. We don't want to spend eternity without Jesus, so in this life, we get to know him. #!!52:00!!#
- Jean's life serves as an example of a life dedicated to knowing Jesus Christ and sharing his ministry. Her faith was formed in the fires of revival, and she has poured out this love into her family and her church. #!!52:45!!#
- Jean's faith was birthed during a time of revival in Belfast, and she was greatly influenced by her brother Gordon's preaching and teaching. #!!45:18!!#
- Jean's sharp wit and the gift of laughter have touched many lives. She has shared many meals and gallons of Irish tea, always leaving people with a chuckle and a story to tell. #!!47:19!!#
Study Guide
Main Points from the Sermon:
1. The importance of God's presence in our lives is emphasized, as seen in the story of Moses leading the Israelites through the wilderness. Moses knew that the survival of God's people depended upon God's presence, and he sought assurance that God would be with them. This is a reminder that we too need God's presence in our lives. [27:37]
2. The sermon highlights the importance of having a relationship with God. It is through this relationship that we can seek guidance and find comfort in times of despair. The speaker uses the example of Jean Mahood, who has walked with God and sought His daily presence throughout her life. [31:21]
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus Christ. The speaker uses the example of Jean Mahood, who has dedicated her life to knowing Jesus and sharing His teachings with others. [52:19]
4. The sermon underscores the importance of trusting in God. The speaker uses the example of Jean Mahood, who has taught others to trust in God in all aspects of their lives. [35:59]
Bible Chapters for the Group to Read:
1. Exodus 33
2. Psalm 91
Discussion Guide:
Observation Questions:
1. In Exodus 33, how does Moses express his need for God's presence?
2. How does Psalm 91 describe the protection and comfort that comes from dwelling in God's presence?
Interpretation Questions:
1. What does Moses' interaction with God in Exodus 33 teach us about the importance of God's presence in our lives?
2. How does Psalm 91 encourage us to seek and trust in God's presence?
Application Questions:
1. Can you recall a time when you felt the need for God's presence in your life like Moses did? How did you seek His presence?
2. How can we cultivate a relationship with God like Jean Mahood did, seeking His guidance and presence daily?
3. How can we apply the teachings of Psalm 91 in our daily lives, especially in times of fear or uncertainty?
Devotional
Day 1: Walking in God's Presence
Walking in God's presence is not just about acknowledging His existence, but actively seeking His guidance and companionship in our daily lives. This relationship with God provides us with a constant companion who never changes, even when our circumstances do. It is in His presence that we find rest, strength, and wisdom. [31:51]
Exodus 33:14 - "The Lord replied, 'My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence in your life. How did it change your perspective or decision-making process?
Day 2: The Importance of God's Word
God's Word is the foundation of our faith and our church. It is through the Word that we learn about God, His love for us, and His plans for our lives. We must not only learn the Word but also teach and preach it, ensuring that it continues to guide and inspire future generations. [27:37]
2 Timothy 3:16 - "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
Reflection: How has a specific passage from the Bible guided you in a difficult situation?
Day 3: Trusting in God's Presence and Protection
Psalm 91 is a powerful reminder of God's protection and faithfulness. By trusting in His presence and protection, we find strength and courage in the face of life's challenges. This trust is not just about believing in God's ability to protect us, but also about surrendering our fears and anxieties to Him. [40:55]
Psalm 91:1 - "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."
Reflection: How has trusting in God's protection helped you overcome a fear or challenge?
Day 4: The Power of a Relationship with God
A relationship with God is not a one-way street. It requires us to seek Him, to desire to know Him more, and to listen to what He is saying. This relationship is the source of our strength, our wisdom, and our hope. It is through this relationship that we experience the fullness of God's love and mercy. [52:45]
Jeremiah 29:13 - "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Reflection: How has your relationship with God grown over the years? What practices have helped you deepen this relationship?
Day 5: Shining God's Light
As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in the world, pointing others to Jesus. This means living out our faith in a way that reflects God's love and truth. It's not about being perfect, but about letting God's light shine through us in our words and actions. [54:10]
Matthew 5:16 - "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Reflection: How can you let God's light shine through you in your daily life? What specific actions can you take to reflect God's love to others?
Quotes
1. "All Nations Church is founded on the word and that you and I must learn the word, we must teach the word, we must preach the word." - 27:37
2. "Jean's inspiration has supported the ministries of this church for 70 years. Those of us who are blessed to know Kitchener knew that Jean very much lovingly Stood Beside him. Jean's perspiration very much helped the build the bricks and mortars and the hearts and souls of this church family." - 24:39
3. "Jean very much embodies that Vision with regard to where our church is going and I don't know about you but she's 100% welcoming everybody in that courtyard." - 25:23
4. "Jean's fleece of Faith brings us Enlightenment and empowerment to God's word." - 26:51
5. "Jean Mahood can attest to that the whole world may walk out on us but God never has and he never will just as he promised Moses we have God's word on that." - 34:59