2016.2.14　日曜礼拝

2016.2.14　日曜礼拝

2016.2.14 Exodus 19:4-6
The main topic in February is “Strengthening your confidence of belief from the Bible.”

We are able to strengthen our faith when we know for sure that Jesus is the messiah promised in the Old Testament to fulfill God’s plan. We also become aware that we are not just following some groundless teachings created by some people.

When we are convinced that the words in the Bible are true and we stand on a firm foundation that never sways, our faith is made strong that it will not tremble.

This week, we will learn what it is to live on the foundation of the Bible from Exodus 19:4-6.

4“’You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

God chose Abraham. Why was he selected? Was it his strong faith? Or did he have exceptional ability?

Unfortunately, we are unable to find out. He could have been brilliant and maybe not.

However, it is clear that God chose Abraham and sent him out to carry out God’s plan. In other words, Abraham and his descendants, the people of Israel, were not selected because they were “special” but rather they are “special because God chose them.”

①We learn from the history in the Bible that “blessing” and “mission” are a set.
1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

Apostle Peter talks about Christians in this verse. He explains clearly that we Christians are also “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” And God’s plan is “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

That is, we Christians have been granted the same “blessing” and “mission” that was given to Abraham. The reason why we are special is that God revealed the special mission years before the birth of Jesus.

Furthermore, there is one point we must understand. The people of Israel made a big mistake when they disobeyed God and the mission while receiving the blessing. Our sins have been forgiven and have been promised eternal life.

If we were not to share this blessing with the people who have not heard the good news of Christ, then are we not making the same mistake as that of the people of Israel.

We have been saved because of God’s mission. This plan leads back to the time of Abraham.

When we look at the Bible, we are able to know what reward awaited those who were faithful to God’s choice and mission as well as what destiny followed those who were disobedient. God led the people of Israel out of Egypt because of his plan and compassion and not due to their deeds.

God first chooses us with blessing, satisfies our needs and send us out on his mission.

Therefore, it would be a betrayal if do not obey his mission after receiving the blessing. When we can be a model of loyalty to the end, then we are assured of the same blessing with those who are already in heaven.