Learning the truth of God's Word is valuable in two ways. First of all, when you learn God's answers to difficult questions, your faith will grow stronger. Secondly, once you learn to defend your faith, you will be in a position to answer the questions of other seekers or those whose faith is wavering. In this message, we look at Jesus' teaching on the four possible responses to sowing the truth of God's Word into people's lives. The principles in this message will help you be more effective in changing your world for God.
Helping Others In Their Quest
GodQuest – Part 7
Life Church St. Louis – November 13, 2011
Pastor Dan Walker
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV) Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
1. Sow the _________ of God’s Word
Luke 8:11 (NIV) "This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God.
A. Sow the truth ________________
Acts 1:8 (NIV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
B. Sow the truth _________________
1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV) To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.
2. Understand people’s ______________
A. Pray for the _________________
Luke 8:12 (NIV) Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.
B. Pursue those who _______________
Luke 8:13 (NIV) Those on the rock are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away.
C. Teach those who are _______________
Luke 8:14 (NIV) The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.
D. Minister with those of ________ heart
Luke 8:15 (NIV) But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.
3. ____________ God for a great harvest
Galatians 6:7-9 (NIV) Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.