Psalms 78:41
The sermon explores how sin, unbelief, and cowardice can limit God's work in our lives.
Chuck Smith explores the theme of 'Limiting God' in his sermon based on Psalms 78:41, emphasizing how sin, unbelief, and cowardice can restrict God's power and presence in our lives. He illustrates how sin can mar our vessels, referencing figures like Samson and Saul, and highlights the consequences of rebellion and forgetting God's works. Smith also discusses the danger of unbelief, pointing out how the Israelites questioned God's ability despite witnessing His miracles, and how this skepticism can hinder ministry effectiveness. Lastly, he addresses the impact of cowardice in facing challenges, urging believers to trust in God's unexhausting resources.
Text
"LIMITING GOD"
Can God be limited. Unexhausting resources.
I. LIMITED GOD THROUGH SIN VS. 10, 17.
A. Think of vessels marred by sin.
1. Samson.
2. Saul.
B. Sin manifested in:
1. Rebellion vs. 8.
2. Turning from God vs. 8.
3. Failure to keep covenant.
4. Refusing to walk in His law.
5. Forgetting God's works.
C. God's works limited by sin..
II. LIMITED GOD THROUGH UNBELIEF VS. 19, 20.
A. Material minded men seem to forget God's wonders.
1. God had sacked Egyptians with plagues.
2. God had parted Red Sea.
3. God had sweetened waters of Marah.
4. God was leading by Cloud and fire.
5. Yet -
B. They challenged God's ability "Can God furnish a table in the wilderness."
C. Ministry of Christ ineffective in Nazareth because of unbelief.
D. Overwhelmed by bigness of problem blinds.
Ill. LIMITED GOD THROUGH COWARDICE.
A. Challenged to go in and conquer land.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - '{''A'': ''Think of vessels marred by sin.'', ''B'': ''Sin manifested in rebellion, turning from God, failure to keep covenant, refusing to walk in His law, and forgetting God''s works.'', ''C'': ''God''s works limited by sin.''}' - LIMITED GOD THROUGH SIN
- II points: - '{''A'': ''Material minded men seem to forget God''s wonders.'', ''B'': ''They challenged God''s ability.'', ''C'': ''Ministry of Christ ineffective in Nazareth because of unbelief.'', ''D'': ''Overwhelmed by bigness of problem blinds.''}' - LIMITED GOD THROUGH UNBELIEF
- III points: - '{''A'': ''Challenged to go in and conquer land.''}' - LIMITED GOD THROUGH COWARDICE
Key Quotes
“Can God be limited? Unexhausting resources.” — Chuck Smith
“They challenged God's ability 'Can God furnish a table in the wilderness.'” — Chuck Smith
“Ministry of Christ ineffective in Nazareth because of unbelief.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Reflect on areas of sin that may be hindering your relationship with God.
- Challenge your beliefs and remember God's past faithfulness to overcome doubt.
- Be courageous in your faith and take action where God is calling you.