8/9/2020 - God Longs for the Lost
FACING DOUBT WITH FAITH: Christian Education Sunday, August 9, 2020
You know the feeling. Sometimes it’s mental, sometimes it’s a gut feeling. You’re listening to someone speak and you think, “I’m just not sure I can believe that.”
Doubt is both common and widespread. Many Bible characters had doubts. Abraham doubted he would have a child at the ripe old age of 100. He tried to control his procreation himself. Moses doubted he was up to the task of leading the Israelites into the promised land. Joshua wondered whether he could conquer Canaan. Gideon doubted he could face the Midianites. In this week's lesson, Elijah doubted that there were any true believers left, and told God so! Later, Peter doubted as he walked on water.
In today's environment, people feel satisfied and justified to feel afraid. Often they'll defend their fear suggesting that it would be irrational not to be afraid. Or, they'll deny they're afraid, but live and act like it and insist their behavior is consistent with faith. The Bible likens doubt and fear to a lack of faith. Throughout the Bible, God encourages Abraham to trust, Joshua to be strong and courageous. "Do not be afraid" is a constant refrain. Or, as Jesus said to Peter when he began to sink, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" God invites Christians to face doubt with faith.
There could hardly be a more timely or practical set of Bible lessons to equip us to face this day and time. While the world seemingly spirals out of control, Christians fear not, since the One who controls all loves and cares for you. If God is for us, who can be against us?
God bless your worship.
► Readings:
• 1 Kings 19:9-18: The Lord speaks to Elijah in a still, small voice.
• Romans 8:28-39: If God is for us, who can be against us?
• Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus walks on water.
• Psalm: 73
► Sermon theme on Luke 15:1-10: “God Longs for the Lost”
8am & 10:45am services with accommodations will be held on campus. Please go to our website for guideline details.
10:45am service will also be live-streamed at https://www.youtube.com/RedeemerTucson