Thinking About Getting Out of the Boat IX
October 11, 2008
Lesson 9: Celebrating the Bigness of God
Wednesday and Sunday Adult Bible Class – Fall Lesson Series
West Broad Church of Christ
October 15 and 19, 2008
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
(Adapted from materials by John Ortberg)
Introduction:
During last week’s lesson, we noted that our desire for the comfortable causes us as human beings (even in the church) to have an aversion to waiting. But we also noted the positive aspects of waiting. Nevertheless, the decision to wait cannot be forced upon a person; it must be chosen by that person. When one makes the choice to wait, he or she can be assured of realizing God’s great purpose.
Of course, all this involves “water walking.” As we begin this last lesson of our series, consider a question: As we walk on water and make our way to Jesus, are we fully convinced that God can keep us afloat? What contributes to our confidence? We will seek answers from God’s word.
I. Is Bigger Better?
Question: What is the one thing that each and every human being wants and needs? Men and women require comfort as they face situations that are quite often bigger than they are.
• lessons from a beach
• lessons from a boat
From both the secular and scriptural perspectives, it would appear that the bigness of God is needed if we are to surmount situations of challenge and despair.
II. On the Bigness of Worship
Is there a connection between the bigness of God and the response of man? Let’s think in secular, scriptural, and practical terms.
• cause and response
• Cause and response
• the need for worship
An understanding of the bigness of God translates to a life of obedience and relationship with God. Question: How does all this speak to your understanding of worship? How do you think the typical Christian views the Sunday and Wednesday assembly? Is change in that thinking warranted? Why?
Summation and Challenge
Over the past several weeks, we have learned that walking on water requires people of faith to get past our fears, hear God’s voice, and persevere as we trust heaven’s promises. Walking on water is an unforgettable experience, but if you want to walk on water . . . you have to get out of the boat. The question is, will you wait or walk?
