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A Recap from Sunday’s Sermon

Preaching Text: Exodus 3:1-15

As our church “extends grace” to others, we can only give what we have. Christians are not merely promoting religion, but introducing people to a relational God. In Genesis 3, Moses moves from knowing about God to knowing him personally.

God uses broken people for his purposes in relationship.

The God who manifests himself in the burning bush is both holy and personal. He desires to be known by people and interacts with us despite our sin. He warns Moses not to come closer because he is on holy ground, but in the same interaction he is beginning a relationship with Moses.   The use of fire is appropriate since we need it for life (think heat and cooking), but we must also fear it because it is dangerous. We need God for life, but he is also a dangerous fire. Yet, we learn in verse 7 that he is compassionate toward those in need. The extent of his compassion was clearest in Jesus’ life and death.

God calls Moses to serve as deliverer for the enslaved Israelites. Five times Moses resists God’s call. We see God’s patience with him, offering some type of help or assurance after each complaint. In these interactions we learn many truths about God. He exists eternally. He’s holy. He initiates with people. He’s relational. He equips when he calls. He is slow to anger. All of these and other attributes become known to us as we walk with the Lord in our lives. “The angel of the Lord” in verse 2 hints at our need for a mediator.   A relationship with this holy God is possible because Jesus stands in the gap between God and our sin. This is grace.    

Taking it home: Discuss some of the ways that God has personally initiated with you or a Christian you know. What is your relationship with God like?