Josh McGuire - Knowing the Will of God | Austin CFC | 2021-01-24
Summary
The central message is that the purpose of life for Christians is to do the will of God, which aligns with Jesus's own mission. The speaker emphasizes that instead of seeking broad answers about career or marriage, one should focus on a specific checklist derived directly from scripture regarding what God explicitly commands. Following these biblical directives will cause other life areas to fall into place.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is our purpose in life?Every human being asks about their purpose on earth, but for the Christian, the answer is found in doing the will of God just as Jesus did.
Why does doing God's will matter?Jesus states in scripture that whoever does the will of God is part of His spiritual family, giving believers the incredible privilege of being invited to His table.
A simple checklist for the will of GodInstead of worrying about broad life decisions like career or marriage, believers can focus on five explicit commands in scripture that act as a hand checklist for God's will.
Thumb: No sexual immoralityThe first explicit will of God is sanctification, specifically commanding believers to run away from and abstain from sexual immorality.
Index finger: Rejoice alwaysBelievers are commanded to rejoice always in the Lord, testing whether their joy is rooted in temporary circumstances or in Jesus Christ.
Middle finger: Pray without ceasingPrayer without ceasing means maintaining a constant spiritual connection with God like an open radio channel, ready to listen and call out for help during any crisis.
Ring finger: In everything give thanksScripture commands believers to give thanks in every situation, anchoring their gratitude in the unchanging truths of the gospel rather than shifting emotions.
Pinky finger: Doing right and submitting to authorityThe final point is to do what is right and submit to established authorities, avoiding the trap of the book of Judges where everyone did what was right in their own eyes.
Recap of the five pointsJosh reviews the hand checklist with the audience, summarizing the five clear expressions of God's will for daily Christian living.
