Summary
This sermon explores the challenge of living authentically as Christians, drawing from the pastor's personal struggles with trying to be perfect or putting on facades to gain approval. Using Moses' relationship with God in Exodus 33 as the primary example, the message emphasizes that authentic living comes from being desperate for God's presence rather than seeking human validation. The sermon highlights how Moses created intentional time and space to meet with God through the tent of meeting, and how God's presence is what sets believers apart from the world. The key message is that we must prioritize developing a deep, intimate relationship with God through regular practices of meeting with Him, which then enables us to live authentically without the need for performance or pretense.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today to discuss Your word and what it means for our lives, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest with ourselves and with each other about our struggles with authenticity and our need for Your presence. We pray that You would speak to each person in this group in the way they need to hear from You today. Give us the courage to be vulnerable and the wisdom to encourage one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have a special place or 'tent of meeting' where you go to think, pray, or just be alone, where would it be and what would it look like?
Key Verses
Exodus 33:11
Exodus 33:14-16
Matthew 5:16
Psalm 37:3-7
Questions
Pastor Chris shared about trying to be the 'perfect Christian' early in his faith journey. Have you ever felt pressure to put on a facade or act like you have it all together? What did that feel like?
Moses was desperate for God's presence and said 'if you don't go personally with us, don't make us leave this place.' How important is God's presence in your daily life? Do you feel desperate for it?
What does it mean to you that 'God's presence is what sets us apart from everyone else in the world'? How have you experienced this in your own life?
Moses made it his regular practice to set up the tent of meeting to spend time with God. What practices or rhythms do you have (or want to have) for spending time with God?
The sermon mentioned that Moses spoke with God 'face to face as one speaks to a friend.' What would it look like for you to have that kind of intimate relationship with God?
Moses not only met with God himself but created space for others to meet with God too. How can you help create environments where others can experience God's presence?
Pastor Chris talked about seeking God's heart before seeking God's hands. What's the difference between these two approaches to prayer and relationship with God?
What are some barriers or challenges that keep you from creating consistent time and space to be with God? How might you overcome these?
Life Application
This week, commit to creating intentional time and space to meet with God daily, even if it's just 10-15 minutes. Choose a specific time and place where you can read Scripture, pray, or simply be present with God without distractions. Consider starting with the Gospel of John if you're unsure where to begin reading. Also, look for one way you can serve or help create an environment where others can experience God's presence.
Key Takeaways
Authentic living comes from being secure in our identity through God's presence, not from seeking human approval or trying to be perfect
We must be desperate for God's presence because His presence is what sets us apart and gives us power for His purposes
Creating regular time and space to meet with God is essential for developing an intimate relationship with Him
Part of our calling is not just to meet with God ourselves, but to help create environments where others can experience His presence
When we seek God's heart before seeking His hands, we develop the kind of relationship that enables us to live authentically without pretense
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Moses and his desperate pursuit of Your presence. We confess that too often we try to live in our own strength or put on masks to gain approval from others. Help us to find our identity and security in Your love and presence with us. Give us the discipline to create regular time and space to meet with You, and help us to be authentic in our relationships with others. Show us how we can serve and help create environments where people can encounter You. We want to live lives that are marked by Your presence and that point others to You. Transform our hearts to desire what You desire, and help us to live authentically as the people You created us to be. In Your precious name, Amen.
