August 21, 2022
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

Exodus 19:1-6
On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. They set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, and they encamped in the wilderness. There Israel encamped before the mountain, while Moses went up to God. The Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel: ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.”

I. Look Back in Past

II. Look Ahead to the Future

You have value because of what Jesus was willing to pay for you

III. Look with Focus in the Present

1 Peter 2:9–10
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

As God’s image bearers we reflect His love to the world.

Matthew 5:14-16
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Next Steps

• I confess Jesus as my Savior and repent of my sin for the first time.
• I commit to getting in the game and carrying hope this week.
• I choose to see myself today as God sees me.

Deep Dive

1. Read 1 Peter 2:9-10. If the role of a priest is to connect people to God, how does that impact our mission as members of His church?
2. Read Matthew 4:16-16. How can you be a light for the Gospel where you live, work, and play?
3. How can understanding our role as priests impact our sense of purpose and community?

Springboard

1. Reflect on C.S. Lewis’ depiction of Aslan and discuss the symbolism of how God loves us.
2. Read 1 Timothy 2:5 and discuss how Jesus serves as our mediator.
3. Read John 14:6. If Jesus is the only way, why do we struggle to trust Him?