God Is in That!
True faith and power come from trusting in God's plan and power, rather than relying on human organization and control.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and the presence of God in acts of boldness and prayer rather than in commercialized miracles. He critiques organized religion that seeks to control and market divine interventions, asserting that true miracles occur when individuals earnestly seek God in solitude and faith. Tozer encourages believers to step out in faith, trusting that God is present in their sincere efforts to serve and proclaim His word. He calls for a return to authentic spirituality, where reliance on God supersedes the need for human organization and control.
Text
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus. --Acts 4:29-30
Some are concerned because there are not more miracles and wonders wrought in our midst through faith. In our day, everything is commercialized. And I must say that I do not believe in commercialized miracles.
"Miracles, Incorporated"--you can have it!
"Healing, Incorporated"--you can have that, too! And the same with "Evangelism, Incorporated" and "Without a Vision the People Perish, Incorporated." I have my doubts about signs and wonders that have to be organized, that demand a letterhead and a president and a big trailer with lights and cameras. God is not in that!
But the person of faith who can go alone into the wilderness and get on his or her knees and command heaven--God is in that. The preacher who will dare to stand and let his preaching cost him something--God is in that. The Christian who is willing to put herself in a place where she must get the answer from God and God alone--the Lord is in that! Faith Beyond Reason, 33-34.
"Lord, forgive me for so often trying to box up my plans and organize Your work so it can all be controlled and explained. Take over, Lord, and do Your thing, not mine, today. Amen."
Sermon Outline
- God's Work vs. Man's Organization
- The Person of Faith
- The Christian's Heart
- Seeking God's Answer Alone
- Letting God Take Control
Key Quotes
“God is not in that!” — A.W. Tozer
“The person of faith who can go alone into the wilderness and get on his or her knees and command heaven--God is in that.” — A.W. Tozer
“Lord, forgive me for so often trying to box up my plans and organize Your work so it can all be controlled and explained.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Seek God's guidance and power in your life, rather than relying on human organization or control.
- Be willing to obey God's will, even when it doesn't make sense to you.
- Trust in God's power and plan, and let Him take control in your life.