June 9, 2024 Larry Dorman
Sermon Summary
Larry Dorman discusses the importance of the role of worship in bringing believers into the presence of God. He emphasizes the collective responsibility of everyone in the church body to support the church and its leadership. Larry also delves into the biblical history of Israel, the first messianic prophecy in Genesis 3:15, and God’s promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed. He discusses the concept of the church as God’s chosen people, now grafted into the promises given to Israel, and the dangers of modern-day idolatry, which can take many forms, including money, possessions, sports, and celebrities.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we reflect on Your word and the message we have heard, we ask for Your guidance in discovering your heart for worship, where we have gone astray with idols in our lives, and how we can be an example of your love to those around us. Open our hearts and minds to the truths You have for us, and help us to be attentive to the ways You are speaking to us. May our time studying your word be fruitful and draw us closer to You. Let us be receptive to Your Spirit, and may we be more equipped to show others Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time, and why?
Key Verses
- Genesis 3:15 (NIV): “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”
- Genesis 12:2-3 (NIV): “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Our High Calling: A Journey of Faith and Obedience
The Privilege of Worship
Worship is more than music; it’s a journey into the presence of God. Randy and Sue’s heartfelt worship is a testament to the power of using one’s gifts to lead others into a deeper connection with God. Worship is an essential aspect of our faith, allowing us to experience God’s presence intimately and glorify Him for who He is.
The Role of the Church Body
The church is not about a single leader; it’s about the body of Christ working together. With the Pastor Gus on sabbatical, it’s a prime opportunity for each person to ask, “What more can I do?” It’s a time to step up in prayer and action, ensuring the church thrives even in the pastor’s absence.
The First Messianic Prophecy
Genesis 3:15 marks the first messianic prophecy, foretelling the coming of Jesus who would triumph over evil. This prophecy sets the stage for the redemptive story that unfolds throughout the Bible, highlighting the promise of a Savior born of a woman to defeat the enemy.
Abraham’s Covenant: A Nation Blessed
God’s covenant with Abraham in Genesis 12 was a call to faith, promising that through Abraham’s lineage, all nations would be blessed. This covenant laid the foundation for the coming of the Messiah through the nation of Israel, a pivotal moment in biblical history.
Israel: Chosen and Treasured
Throughout the Old Testament, Israel is depicted as God’s chosen and treasured people. Passages from Deuteronomy and Psalms affirm this special status, emphasizing the honor and responsibility that comes with being chosen by God.
The New Testament Church: A Holy Nation
1 Peter 2:9-10 reveals that Christians, both Jews and Gentiles, are now God’s chosen people, called to show others the goodness of God. This passage underscores the mission of the church to live as a testament to God’s love and mercy.
Learning from Israel’s Mistakes
1 Corinthians 10 warns us to learn from Israel’s history of disobedience and idolatry. The apostle Paul urges believers to stand firm against temptation and to flee from idolatry, which can take many forms in our lives.
The Danger of Modern Idolatry
Idolatry isn’t just about worshipping statues; it’s about anything that takes God’s place in our hearts. From the love of money to the prioritization of sports and entertainment, modern idolatry can distract us from our true purpose in Christ. Larry emphasized that it is not MONEY that is the root of all evil, but the LOVE OF MONEY that is the root of all kinds of evil.
10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:10 NKJV
Living for God in Today’s World
1 John 2:15-17 cautions against loving the world and its desires, which are fleeting. Instead, we are called to do what pleases God, living lives that reflect His love and priorities.
Questions
Consider these questions as you seek to apply the message to your life this week:
- How can I deepen my worship experience and consistently seek God’s presence?
- How can we actively participate in our church community, especially during times when key leaders are absent?
- What does it mean to you to be God’s “special treasure”?
- How can we guard against the temptation of modern-day idolatry in our own lives?
- In what ways can we show others the goodness of God through our daily actions?
- How can we balance enjoying the good things in life without allowing them to become idols?
- What steps can we take to ensure that our love for God remains greater than our love for worldly pleasures?
- In what ways can I avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and keep God first in my life?
- How can we support one another in our commitment to keep God first in our lives?
- Can you share a time when you had to re-evaluate your priorities to align them with God’s will?
Life Application
As we reflect on Larry’s message, let’s challenge ourselves to examine our hearts and lives. Are there areas where we have allowed modern idols to take precedence over our relationship with God? How can we reorient our priorities to ensure that Christ remains at the center of everything we do?
Let this week be a time of intentional reflection and action, as we strive to live as God’s chosen people, showing the world His goodness through our lives.
This week, take time to examine your own life for any areas where you may have allowed something to take precedence over your relationship with God. Commit to one tangible action that will help you to refocus on God as your top priority, whether it’s setting aside more time for prayer, serving in a new way at church, or reducing the time spent on a hobby that has become too consuming.
Ending Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for for who you are, a merciful and loving father. We pray that the scriptures that Larry shared and the truths your Holy Spirit revealed through Larry’s message would take hold in our lives. We pray that we will prioritize you and your church accordingly. May we be vessels of your love to the community around us. Guide us in how to worship you in spirit and in truth. May we have joy in our worship of you. Please let your spirit be with Pastor Gus while he is on Sabbatical. Please lead him in this time of refreshing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.