What Does Our Experience of God's Love Depend Upon？
John Piper teaches that the experiential knowledge of God's love depends solely on the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit, not on human effort or family background.
This sermon emphasizes that the experience of God's love being poured into our hearts is solely the work of the Holy Spirit, not influenced by our efforts, preaching, or worship. It highlights the supernatural nature of this experience, underscoring the need for complete dependence on God. The message challenges the misconception that one's ability to experience God's love is tied to their family background, stressing that it is a miraculous work of the Holy Spirit for both the broken and the whole.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The experience of God's love is through the Holy Spirit
- It is not a result of human effort or works
- Preaching and worship do not produce this experience
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II
- The Holy Spirit's work is supernatural and essential
- We depend on God for all that truly matters
- Only the Spirit can pour God's love into our hearts
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III
- Family background does not determine the experience of God's love
- Both broken and healthy families need the Holy Spirit's work
- The love of God is a miracle beyond natural circumstances
Key Quotes
“This experience of the love of God being poured into my heart... is through the Holy Spirit.” — John Piper
“It is not your work. You didn't make this happen. Nobody on earth made this happen.” — John Piper
“This text is talking about a miracle for the broken and a miracle for the whole.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Depend daily on the Holy Spirit to experience God's love rather than relying on your own efforts.
- Do not let your family background limit your understanding or experience of God's love.
- Recognize that true assurance of God's love is a supernatural gift, prompting continual prayer and dependence on God.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can human effort make us experience God's love?
No, John Piper emphasizes that experiencing God's love is solely the work of the Holy Spirit, not human effort.
Does a good family background guarantee experiencing God's love?
No, even those from perfect families need the Holy Spirit to truly experience God's love.
Why is the Holy Spirit necessary for experiencing God's love?
Because the experience of God's love is supernatural and cannot be produced by natural means or circumstances.
What role does preaching and worship play in experiencing God's love?
While important, preaching and worship do not cause the experience of God's love; only the Holy Spirit can do that.