Faith and Doubt — Conclusion
March 12, 2009
Faith and Doubt – Discussions on Being Certain
When You Are Uncertain
“Letting Go: Challenge and Reward” Series Conclusion
Sunday and Wednesday Adult Bible Class
West Broad Church of Christ
March 11 and 15, 2009
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
(Adapted from materials by John Ortberg)
Introduction:
We discussed the value of uncertainty during our last lesson. Despite the fact that we are uncertain of the actions of God, we still trust in the person of God. This trust in the Father makes us certain even when we are uncertain. On tonight we will talk about “letting go.” What is involved in this action? We will continue our quest for biblical answers.
I. On Letting Go
What is the meaning of the phrase, “leap of faith?” How is this sentiment expressed?
· Thoughts of the circus
· Thoughts of the Christ. Question: How do you respond to this comparison? Is it valid? Why?
We see various New Testament instances that demand a “letting go.”
· Letting go in Ephesians
· Letting go in Colossians
· Implications of letting go
II. On Waiting
We do not enjoy waiting, and it is often a period of great difficulty for us as Christians. We sometimes do not respond well to waiting. But we are not only ones.
· Abraham and waiting
· The Disciples and waiting. Question: Why do you think we have such a difficult time with the concept of waiting?
· Implications of waiting. Question: Recall a time when you were challenged to wait. What happened? How did the experience impact you?
III. On Being Caught
The catcher will grip the person who “lets go.” Can we know this will also happen to us?
· Being caught in the Exodus
· Being caught in Chronicles
· Being caught in Isaiah
· Being caught in Paul
There is much in these passages that speaks to us intellectually. However, is the matter of faith an intellectual decision, or is it more?
· The training of Paul
· The prose of Paul
· The conclusion of Paul
The trapeze artists lets go and is caught. Each of us is on the trapeze of faith. The testimony of those who have gone before assures us that if we “let go,” God will catch us every time.
Conclusion:
Over the past few months we have talked about doubt and hope, struggling in belief, the silence of God, and the gift of uncertainty. As we considered this idea of faith and doubt, we saw that people of faith did not have all the answers. They lived in harmonious tension trusting and questioning, hoping and crying. As we serve Jesus in downtown Richmond, we do what they did. And, like them, we can know that our Father will “catch” us in the end. Enjoy your journey!
