Josh McGuire - A Living Testimony, Part 1 | Austin CFC | 2020-12-13
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that the Bible is a living and active Word, urging listeners to examine their own lives against the scriptural examples. He suggests asking questions like, "Lord, do you see those same qualities in me?" This process brings scripture to life by allowing personal self-examination regarding one's spiritual struggles and potential for sin.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What does it mean to accept Christ?Believers often prefer a buffet-style Christianity, but coming to Jesus means accepting His terms and recognizing that everything we possess actually belongs to Him.
Is it I, Lord?When reading the scriptures, we should honestly examine ourselves and ask if we share the character flaws or struggles of biblical figures rather than just judging them.
Jacob's testimony and early natureLike Jacob who was born a grabber fighting for position, we often inherit a natural drive to make things happen our own way through competition and cunning.
Tension at home and chasing opportunityGrowing up in a home with parental tension, Jacob took matters into his own hands by acquiring the birthright and scheming for the blessing.
The true focus of the Abrahamic blessingWhile Isaac and the world emphasize finding a partner for fulfillment, God's true covenant blessing is about being blessed so that we can be a blessing to others.
Jacob's conditional vowJacob responded to God's incredible promises by making a bargain that if God provided food and safety, he would give a tithe, reflecting our own tendency to focus on earthly comfort.
Chasing created things instead of the CreatorJacob spent years pursuing Rachel and later chasing after wealth, illustrating the mistake of putting our ultimate hope in created things rather than Jesus.
Greatly afraid and distressedAfter cycles of running from trouble, Jacob finds himself terrified and stressed out as he prepares to face the sins of his past and his brother Esau.
Returning to God in humility and faithJacob finally reaches a place of honest prayer, relying on God's promises, humbling himself in unworthiness, and choosing to trust God despite the bleak situation.
