“ Well thought out sermon ” I am very thankful God directed me to this sermon during a random search today. I’ve been struggling with assurance and questioning my devotion to God and this Sermon was very clarifying for me. It has convicted me and given me much to think about. Thank you.
“ Can't or won't? ” Thought it was interesting how you kept coming back to "will not believe" instead of "cannot believe". Often I say, "I can't believe ..." when, if I were honest, it should be "I will not believe". After all, I "believe" things every day that have less "evidence" than some of Christianity's teachings. But the required humility, accountability, and responsibility stand between me and "I do believe".
“ Exactly what the Spirit wanted me to hear ” God has strongly impressed upon me the need for a time of disciplined prayer in order to enter and enjoy His presence recently. The Spirit has moved several individuals in my home church already to point me in this needed direction. At the same time, my senior pastor has begun emphasizing the priority of prayer in our congregation! For me personally, it all started with this very passage that was preached. The Lord has confirmed many things I need to work on and share with my brothers and sisters. I give thanks to God for the message He laid on your heart!
“ Pretenders ” I don't think pretenders fool themselves. During quiet times they know who and what they are. They work hard to keep that mask in place around most people. But it's an empty, frustrating life behind the mask. There comes a point at which "removing the mask" is just not even an option anymore. But that doesn't mean the pretender is happy or content with life. They just don't see another option
“ Question ” Pastor Hawkey,
If you met someone who was an agnostic ... but was willing to read the Bible ... in search of the truth ... where would you tell them to start reading?
“ Helpful Sermon! ” This is a very helpful summary of the early history of mankind -- shows the early sin and later the path to overcoming sin through the line of
Seth.
“ Thought Provoking Q&A ” 1. Contrasting Peter & Judas
2. Can a true believer fall away
3. The Gospel for Deists
Interesting presentation of these topics. The apoplectic approach to Deism reminded me of several books I have read by Francis Schaeffer. Apologetics is an effort to systematically inform (or correct) thinking. To logically examine a belief system and either strengthen it or dismantle it in an organized fashion. Seems like a very good starting point for a person who values logic and reason so highly.
“ Great Sermon! ” Thank u so much for addressing this topic.The suggestions for engaging Jewish friends in respectful dialog is just what I needed. Thx for the OT/NT references. DuH! Why didn't I think of that? Your message shows me how to proceed in preparing myself for a caring conversation with Jewish folks.
I really appreciate what I learned from the easy to grasp concepts you presented. God bless you & thank you for the lessons.
5/23/2023 10:53 AM
