In One Ear
Often we hear a sermon. Perhaps feel a little convicted, encouraged, or inspired. Then we go on with our day or week. Truthfully, it makes little difference in our everyday lives. In fact, the next week we can barely remember what the sermon was even on. The Sunday sermon goes in one ear and out the other. Why do we gather together to sit under the preaching of God’s Word? And how can we get the most of our time and be more deeply formed into the people God longs for us to become?
More from Not Your Ordinary Church Service
Teaching Notes
A DEEPLY FORMED CHURCH:
1. The Bible is more than a GOOD Book, it is GOD’S Word.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Beware of 3 Temptations:
- APATHY from Accessibility
- PICK & CHOOSE Theology
- CHRONOLOGICAL Snobbery
2. Preaching is not for us to FEEL GOOD, but to FORM CHRIST in us.
He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. Colossians 1:28-29
Ezra the Priest:
- Brought God’s Word, not his OPINIONS.
- Concerned with being CLEAR over being CLEVER.
- Communicated for APPLICATION not APPLAUSE.
3. The emphasis is on the PEOPLE of God, not the PASTOR.
All the People:
- HUNGERED to know God’s Word
- LISTENED ATTENTIVELY to God’s Word
- RESPONDED to God’s Word
APPLICATION:
1. Come EXPECTANT for God to SPEAK to you.
2. Bring your BIBLE to Church & take NOTES.
3. Ask: What am I to DO with what I just HEARD?
4. Go enjoy a GREAT MEAL.