15th April 2018 - God's Power Shows Up Best In Weak People.
God's Power Shows Up Best In Weak People. (2 cor:12:9,10 and 48) -Ian Robson
Summary
The sermon focuses on praising God's greatness and power, drawing parallels to the Psalmist's account of God delivering those in distress. The central message emphasizes that God's love, grace, and power are limitless, capable of saving and sustaining humanity. The speaker encourages the congregation to give thanks and worship God for His unending goodness.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The contrast between the world's strength and God's wayThe Holy Spirit operates differently than the world, which seeks strength and power; instead, God calls believers to become weak so His power can be manifested through them.
Paul's thorn in the flesh and sufficient gracePaul spoke of his surpassing revelations and the thorn in the flesh given to keep him from exalting himself, learning that God's grace is sufficient and power is perfected in weakness.
The literal translation of weakness and dynamite powerA literal translation of Paul's words shows he took pleasure in insults and hardships because when he was without strength, he experienced God's dynamite Dunamis power.2 Corinthians 12:10
George Matheson and the glory of the crossBlind preacher George Matheson realized he had thanked God for his roses but never for his thorn, eventually writing the hymn 'O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go' out of his suffering.
Jesus crucified in weakness and living by God's powerJesus was crucified because of weakness yet lives by the power of God, and believers are likewise called to be weak in Him so they can live with Him.
Testing ourselves to see if Christ is in usBelievers must examine themselves to ensure they recognize Jesus Christ in them, embracing the path of weakness rather than relying on their own strength.
Depending completely on God like branches in the vineBelievers are called to live in complete dependence on God, recognizing that apart from Him they can do nothing, much like branches abiding in the vine.
Finding strength as we wait upon the LordEven when people grow weary and feel their way is hidden from God, those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength and mount up with wings like eagles.Isaiah 40:26–31
Old Testament examples of strength made from weaknessAbraham demonstrated faith without wavering despite his deadened body, and Scripture records how individuals like David and Gideon were made strong from weakness.
Treasure in earthen vessels for God's gloryGod places His surpassing power in fragile earthen vessels so that the greatness of the power belongs to God and not to ourselves.2 Corinthians 4:7
