Sermon Series: The Big Step Week 4

Isaiah 55:11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

1. Does God’s word have creative and redemptive power? 2. If it does, what are the implications for you personally?

John 15:7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

1. What does it mean to abide in Jesus and his words? 2. How would you know if you are doing it? Is Jesus exaggerating? 3. What does abiding accomplish for the believer?

Joel 2:28 Then afterward I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. What impresses you the most about this promise?

1. The wild liberality/ generosity/ lavishness of this gift - the Holy Spirit is not dispensed drop by drop but rather poured out.

2. The indiscriminate nature of this gift - all flesh receive this gift. No mention is made of any kind of merit.

3. The purpose of this gift - God is still talking to his children. Note that in this verse the purpose of the Spirit is to share God’s will or message - visions and dreams – prophesying. Words and messages don’t seem highly valued today.

Or is God still talking to his children? If so, how? If not, why?

Jeremiah 29:11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

1. What plan does God have for you? This church? 2. How are you part of that plan being accomplished?