Listen to last week’s sermon Encountering The True Heart of God found in Exodus 34

The understanding of God’s nature is pivotal to the faith and practice of believers. Misconceptions about God’s character can lead to fear and disengagement from religious life. Pastor Eric starts by sharing his personal journey from misunderstanding to enlightenment, facilitated by a transformative encounter with the Gospel and a study of biblical texts.

Pastor Eric begins with a childhood marked by fear and misunderstanding of God, influenced by a harsh paternal figure. The early perception of God was one of anger and punishment, which discouraged religious engagement.

Biblical Insights from Exodus 34:6-7

In Exodus 34:6-7, God reveals His nature to Moses. This passage is critical in understanding God’s true heart and is analyzed in detail:

God is Merciful

God’s mercy is depicted as a deep, motherly compassion that spares humanity from deserved judgment. This section examines the theological significance of mercy and its implications for human interactions, encouraging believers to reflect this divine attribute in their lives.

God is Gracious

Grace is defined as unmerited favor, essential for salvation and central to God’s nature. Pastor Eric spoke on the necessity of grace for bridging the gap between human imperfection and divine holiness, emphasizing its role in salvation and daily life.

God is Slow to Anger

God’s patience, or longsuffering, is described as a large margin of endurance and tolerance, allowing time for repentance. This section contrasts divine patience with human impulsiveness, urging believers to adopt a similar stance in their relationships and dealings with others.

God is Steadfast in Love

God’s steadfast love is highlighted as inexhaustible and unwavering, extending even to those who oppose Him. This attribute challenges believers to exhibit consistent love and kindness, even towards adversaries, reflecting God’s heart in their actions.

God Forgives

Forgiveness is a key aspect of God’s nature, as He forgives iniquity, transgression, and sin. This section explores the depth of divine forgiveness and its importance in personal transformation and relational healing. Believers are encouraged to emulate God’s forgiveness in their interactions, breaking cycles of resentment and hostility.

God is Just

While God is merciful and forgiving, He also embodies justice, not clearing the guilty without repentance. Pastor Eric discussed the balance between grace and justice, emphasizing that divine justice ensures accountability and moral order. Believers are called to uphold justice in their communities, reflecting God’s righteous nature.

The Call to Reflect God’s Heart

The sermon argues that embodying these attributes is crucial for believers, affecting parenting, relationships, and societal interactions. It discusses the challenges faced by the Church when its representatives fail to reflect God’s true heart, leading to confusion and mistrust among non-believers.

References mentioned

– The Holy Bible, Exodus 34:6-7.
– Tozer, A.W. “The Knowledge of the Holy.”
– Keller, Tim. “The Prodigal God.”
– Bridges, Jerry. “The Discipline of Grace.”
– Packer, J.I. “Knowing God.”

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