One of the most important specific questions I would like to develop an
informative answer to is, who is God? The reason this question is so important
is the manner in which the answer can be used in evangelism and apologetics
which tend to go hand in hand. Many believe in God but not necessarily the
same God. Therefore, the best definition possible must be put forth in
conversation with those who have questions. This definition should be borne
out of Scripture since faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God
(Rom 10:17).
In order to develop this aforementioned definition of who God is, much study
of God’s Word is necessary. This study will undoubtedly strengthen my faith as
I “hear” God’s word. Therefore, I hope to increase my faith as I study God’s
Word. This posture will also bring cause another very important thing to
happen. Increased study and devotion time will ensure my focus is on God
and not the things of the world, or the high places. This leads me to the next
point which is the sermon I am developing during this week.
I am currently working on a sermon or sermon series about “high places.”
Starting with the high places noted throughout the Old Testament, I plan to
develop the idea that many high places have made their way into our lives and
they are causing us to lose sight of the most important thing, Jesus. These
high places also cause us to make decisions which placate the high place
rather than pleasing God.
This study on high places is of particular interest to me since I have
experienced high places throughout my life. I believe one must understand
what hinders growth and learn how to deal with it before any individual
spiritual growth can occur. The good thing is, the very study about high places
and how the thwart a close relationship with God, because they get in the way,
causes one to realize that God must be the high place in our life. After all, He
is a jealous God (Josh 24:19). In regard to the church, many high places have
crept in as of late, especially with the pandemic. For instance, many have
allowed the news to become a high place. This is evident in the way many are
swayed to make formerly insane decisions, such as, rushing out to take an
experimental gene therapy which is not proven effective or safe. I believe, the
only way this was made possible was the endless regurgitation of the same
message by the media which has become a high place. Therefore, I hope to
draw attention to the dangers involved in erecting high places or allowing them
to remain.
