The Mountain and The Glass | Greg Ford | ONE CHURCH
The Mountain and The Glass | Greg Ford | ONE CHURCH
ICEBREAKER:
How did you see God move this last week?
The video discusses the tension between God's law and man-made traditions, using the example of the Sabbath. Jesus emphasizes the spirit of the law over the letter, calling for a deeper understanding of God's intent to meet people's needs and restore their relationship with Him.
Pastor Greg acknowledges and celebrates all mothers and mother figures, expressing gratitude for their guidance and support while also recognizing the mixed emotions holidays like Mother's Day can bring.
The invention of a specific camera technique allowed for depth perception in animation, later applied to real-life photos, exploring the concept of layering man-made elements on natural landscapes.
The Pharisees developed strict rules and traditions to avoid offending God, leading to a culture of legalism and judgmental perspectives, as seen in their interpretation of Sabbath laws.
Jesus emphasizes the true purpose of the Sabbath, highlighting the importance of rest and connection with God over legalistic rules and rituals. The Sabbath was intended for people's well-being, not to burden them with man-made regulations.
Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it, meaning to understand and apply it correctly, showing what God intended for the law to produce in people's hearts and relationships.
Jesus' teachings challenge the conventional norms of love and inclusion, urging individuals to show love even to their enemies, emphasizing the importance of genuine love over societal expectations.
Jesus welcomes and loves everyone, erasing the concept of outsiders, emphasizing simplicity in following the greatest commandment of loving God and others deeply.
QUESTIONS:
QUESTION 1:
How does the video highlight the importance of understanding the spirit of the law over the letter when it comes to religious practices like observing the Sabbath?
QUESTION 2:
In what ways does the video suggest that man-made traditions and interpretations can sometimes overshadow the true intent of God's laws, as exemplified by the Pharisees' approach?
QUESTION 3:
How does the concept of being an "outsider" or "mamser" resonate with individuals today, and how does Jesus' message of inclusivity and love challenge societal norms and divisions?
QUESTION 4:
What parallels can be drawn between the struggles faced by individuals in the video, such as feeling like an outsider or being burdened by man-made rules, and the challenges faced by people in contemporary society?
QUESTION 5:
How can the message of finding freedom in God's grace while upholding the values of treating others with love and respect be applied in our daily lives and interactions with those around us?
GUIDED PRAYER:
Heavenly Father,
As we come before you today, we are grateful for the opportunity to seek your guidance and wisdom. Help us, Lord, to open our hearts and minds to the truths revealed in the sermon we have heard. May we be willing to examine our motives and actions, seeking alignment with your will and purpose for our lives.
Lord, we acknowledge the diversity of ideologies and mindsets that exist within our communities and churches. Grant us the humility to look beyond surface differences and to see each other through your eyes, with love and understanding. Help us to be agents of change, bringing light and hope to those around us.
We pray for the strength to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world," engaging with the culture while maintaining purity of heart. Guide us in our interactions, that our words and deeds may glorify you and reflect your love to others.
Lord, reveal to us any areas in our lives where our motives may be clouded or our actions may be driven by false positivity. Help us to seek authenticity and integrity in all that we do, aligning our hearts with your truth.
May we approach self-reflection with sincerity and a willingness to grow closer to you. Grant us the courage to ask the right questions, seek your guidance, and walk in the path of righteousness.
We thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness and for the opportunity to seek your presence in our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray.
Amen.