Worthy – Study #1
The One Worthy to be Sovereignly Provident
Revelation 4:1-11
Sunday’s Teaching: On this first Sunday of the WORTHY series, our confidence found its anchor once again in Biblically revealed truth about God and his sovereign providence. Beyond and behind all that happens in our chaotic world, there is a THRONE established (ultimate authority and rule), and the ONE who occupies the throne is uncompromisingly HOLY and incomparably WORTHY of the unbridled worship of all creation.
So how important is this truth to the set of our hearts and the expression of our lives?
Let’s get STARTED – warm up by discussing the challenging things which have happened in the lives of your group members…about which the control and ultimate plan of God gave you unique peace. No doubt every person and/or couple has a story. Unpack your stories with one another. Share the encouragement!
Let’s Explore in the WORD – Opening the Word, let’s review what Scripture says about the Lord’s control and plan both within history and also in our lives.
PEOPLES and PLACES – what did Paul want the philosophers to know about God’s sovereign control? What do you discover in his description? Acts 17:22-28
TIMES and AUTHORITIES – what did Daniel reveal to Nebuchadnezzar regarding God’s control over the kingdoms of the world? Daniel 2:16-23 (if you have time, read 2:31-47)
** how does Romans 13:1-6 add to this?
** do you wrestle with the reality that some of the authorities God puts in place…rule poorly? Are evil? What kind of faith is needed in such circumstances? Did not Habakkuk struggle with this? (cf. Habakkuk 1:1-2:1…your study Bible will help with what’s happening here)
SPECIFIC DIVINE INFLUENCE – how do these Scriptures shape your understanding? Genesis 50:15-21, also Proverbs 21:1, Proverbs 16:1,3,9,33, Proverbs 19:21
GOD’S HAND IN THE LIVES OF HIS CHILDREN – what confidence do these passages bring us? Job 42:1-6 (note: Job’s response to God’s revelation), Psalm 139:1-18, Romans 8:26-30, 1 Peter 5:6-11
Let’s Prioritize APPLICATION – Is there a situation or circumstance you are (or someone you know is) facing that feels like God’s control is lacking, God’s purpose is a bit inscrutable? If so, is there a Scripture truth from this study which might bring the Spirit’s perspective and comfort? Which passage (and truth) will you be leaning into more confidently?
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