God’s got your back… and your front… and probably your weird uncle, too. Promises bigger than your HBO bill!
Section 1. Welcome and Announcements
Hey everyone, welcome! So glad you could join us today. It’s always a joy to gather together as a church family, and I believe God has something special for each of us today.
- Announcements:
- Next Sunday: We’re having a potluck after the service – bring your favorite dish!
- Small Groups: Sign-ups for our fall small groups are open. It’s a great way to connect with others and grow in your faith.
- Community Outreach: We’ll be volunteering at the local food bank next Saturday. All are welcome to join!
Section 2. Call to Worship
Let’s start by centering our hearts and minds on God. Today, let’s reflect on the words of Genesis 15:5, where God tells Abram to look up at the stars: “He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Let these words remind us of the vastness of God’s promises and the depth of His love for us. Let’s all say together: “Father, thank you for the many wonders you have shown us, Thank you for this day and being here as a fellowship.”
Section 3. Opening Prayer
Dear Lord, we come before you today with open hearts and minds, ready to receive your word. Thank you for the gift of community, for the opportunity to gather together and worship you. Fill us with your Spirit, guide us with your wisdom, and help us to grow closer to you each day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Section 4. Praise and Worship
Now, let’s lift our voices together in praise! Our worship team has prepared some beautiful songs for us today—a mix of familiar hymns and newer tunes—all designed to help us express our love and gratitude to God. Let’s sing with joy and enthusiasm, offering our hearts as a sacrifice of praise to Him!
Section 5. Scripture Reading
Today, we’re going to delve into a powerful passage from the book of Genesis, chapter 15, verses 1 through 6.
This passage tells the story of God’s promise to Abram, a man who felt like he was running out of time. Abram was concerned because he had no children, and God reassured him that he would have descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. It’s a story of faith, trust, and God’s unwavering commitment to His promises.
Now, let’s read Genesis 15:1-6 together:
Genesis 15:1-6 (NIV)
1 After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision:
“Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.”
2 But Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” 3 And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.”
4 Then the word of the Lord came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.”
5 He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”
6 Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Section 6. Pastoral Prayer or Intercessory Prayer
Lord, we lift up to you all those who are struggling with doubt or uncertainty. Just as you reassured Abram, we ask that you would reassure us of your presence and your promises. Help us to trust in your timing and to have faith that you are working all things for our good.
(Congregational Response): Lord hear our prayers.
We pray for families, for those struggling in their marriages, and those having challenges with their children, Help us to be better for everyone around us.
(Congregational Response): Lord hear our prayers.
Section 7. Offering
Now, let’s take a moment to give back to God through our tithes and offerings. Giving is an act of worship, an expression of our gratitude for all that He has given us. It’s not just about the money; it’s about surrendering our hearts to Him. Let’s pray:
Dear Lord, we thank you for the blessings you have poured out upon us. We offer these tithes and offerings as an act of worship, trusting that you will use them to further your kingdom. May they be a reflection of our love and gratitude for all that you have done. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Section 8. Special Music
And now, we are blessed to have [Name of Singer/Group] share their musical gifts with us! Let’s welcome them warmly.
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The Bible Study Tie-In
“Childless? Hopeless? Genesis 15 Reveals The Ancient Secret to Believing God’s Impossible Promises (and How It Can Change Your Life Today)”
Friends, have you ever felt like Abram? Staring up at the vast night sky, wondering if God’s promises were just too far out of reach? I know I have. We look around at our lives, our families, our circumstances, and sometimes it’s hard to see how God could possibly fulfill the dreams He’s placed in our hearts.
But that’s where the story of Abram in Genesis 15 comes in. He was old, childless, and wondering who would inherit everything he had. Sounds pretty bleak, right? But God… God met Abram where he was. He took him outside, showed him the stars, and promised him a future beyond his wildest imagination.
The key here is in verse 6: “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” Abram chose to believe, even when it didn’t make sense, even when his circumstances screamed the opposite.
And that, my friends, is the challenge for us today. Will we choose to believe God’s promises, even when we can’t see how they’ll come to pass? Will we trust that He has a plan for our lives, even when things seem hopeless?
This is why I’ve created this Bible Study Tie-In, to help you dive deeper into the story of Abram and discover how to apply these timeless truths to your own life.
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As you will see every word in this sermon was crafted with a heart full of love for God and a deep desire to inspire His people. You’ve already experienced my heartfelt welcome, reflecting the warmth and sincerity I bring to every message. The Expository Outline breaks down God’s Word with understanding, clarity, and purpose. Picture yourself sharing this transformative message with your congregation. Imagine their hearts stirring as they hear God’s Word come alive. Think of the renewed hope, deeper faith, and vibrant spiritual growth that will take root as a result.
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Section 9. Sermon Title: “Stargazing Faith: Believing God”
Expository Sermon Outline:
- God’s Reassurance (Genesis 15:1)Sub-Heading: “Do Not Be Afraid, Abram”Explanation: This section highlights God’s initial comfort to Abram. Despite Abram’s fears and uncertainties, God steps in to reassure him, reminding him of His protection and abundant reward. It sets the stage for a message centered around trusting God even when we face moments of fear and doubt.
- Abram’s Doubt (Genesis 15:2-3)Sub-Heading: “Sovereign Lord, What Can You Give Me?”Explanation: Here, Abram voices his doubts and frustrations. He highlights his childlessness and questions the fulfillment of God’s promises. This section emphasizes the importance of honest communication with God, even when we struggle to understand His plans.
- The Promise of Descendants (Genesis 15:4-5)Sub-Heading: “Look Up at the Sky and Count the Stars”Explanation: In this section, God reaffirms His promise to Abram, using the imagery of the stars to symbolize the multitude of his descendants. It focuses on God’s faithfulness and His ability to fulfill promises beyond human comprehension.
- Abram’s Belief (Genesis 15:6)Sub-Heading: “Abram Believed the Lord”Explanation: The climax of the passage, this section emphasizes Abram’s faith in God’s promise. It underscores the transformative power of faith and its role in being credited as righteousness. It reinforces the idea that belief is not just an intellectual exercise but a trustful dependence on God.
Sermon Section
1. God’s Reassurance (Genesis 15:1)
- Heading: “Unshakable Comfort”In this verse, God’s initial words to Abram are a powerful reminder of His unwavering presence and protection. “Do not be afraid, Abram,” He says, “I am your shield, your very great reward.” These words are not just for Abram; they’re for each one of us today. How often do we find ourselves caught in the grip of fear, uncertainty, or anxiety? In those moments, we need to remember that God is our shield, our protector, and our reward. He is with us, always.
- Personal Thoughts:I remember a time when I faced a challenge that seemed insurmountable. Fear threatened to overwhelm me, and I felt lost and alone. But in the midst of that darkness, I heard God’s whisper, “Do not be afraid, I am with you.” Those words brought me comfort and strength, reminding me that I was not alone in the battle.
- Personal Commentary:God’s reassurance isn’t just a one-time event; it’s a constant promise. We can rest in His presence, knowing that He is our protector and our reward. No matter what challenges we face, we can trust that God is with us, guiding us, and shielding us from harm.
- Personal Commentary on Christian Discipleship:As followers of Christ, we are called to live with courage and confidence, knowing that God is our shield. We can step out in faith, trusting that He will protect us from the attacks of the enemy. We are not called to live in fear, but to live boldly for Christ.
- Personal Reflection Commentary on Spiritual Growth:Spiritual growth comes when we learn to trust in God’s protection and provision. When we surrender our fears to Him, we open ourselves up to receive His peace and strength. It’s in those moments of surrender that we experience true spiritual growth.
- Ask Yourself This Question:In what area of your life are you currently experiencing fear or uncertainty? How can you turn to God for reassurance and comfort in that situation?
2. Abram’s Doubt (Genesis 15:2-3)
- Heading: “Honest Doubts, Real Questions”In verses 2 and 3, Abram lays bare his heart before God. He expresses his frustration and disappointment, questioning how God’s promises can be fulfilled when he remains childless. “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless…?” Abram asks. This is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to have doubts and questions when it comes to our faith. God is not intimidated by our honest struggles; He welcomes them.
- Personal Thoughts:I’ve often found myself wrestling with doubts and questions about God’s plan for my life. There have been times when I’ve wondered if He truly hears my prayers or if His promises are really for me. It’s in those moments that I’ve learned the importance of bringing my doubts before God, being honest with Him about my struggles.
- Personal Commentary:Doubt isn’t the opposite of faith; it’s often a stepping stone to a deeper, more authentic faith. When we bring our doubts before God, He can use them to refine our understanding and strengthen our trust in Him. It’s okay to question; it’s okay to doubt; it’s okay to wrestle with our faith.
- Personal Commentary on Christian Discipleship:As disciples of Christ, we are called to embrace honesty and vulnerability in our relationship with God. We don’t have to pretend to have all the answers; we can be real with Him about our doubts and struggles. It’s in that honesty that we experience true intimacy with Him.
- Personal Reflection Commentary on Spiritual Growth:Spiritual growth comes when we allow God to meet us in our doubts and questions. When we’re willing to be honest with Him about our struggles, He can use those struggles to shape us into the people He wants us to be.
- Ask Yourself This Question:What doubts or questions are you currently wrestling with in your faith journey? How can you bring those doubts before God and trust that He will meet you there?
3. The Promise of Descendants (Genesis 15:4-5)
- Heading: “A Sky Full of Possibilities”In verses 4 and 5, God reaffirms His promise to Abram, using the image of the stars to illustrate the multitude of his descendants. “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them,” God says. “So shall your offspring be.” This is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and His ability to fulfill promises beyond our wildest dreams.
- Personal Thoughts:I’ve often been amazed by God’s ability to do more than I could ever ask or imagine. He has a way of exceeding our expectations and fulfilling promises in ways that we could never have predicted. This passage reminds me to keep my eyes fixed on Him, trusting that He will bring His promises to pass in my life.
- Personal Commentary:God’s promises are not limited by our circumstances or our abilities. He is able to do the impossible. We can trust that He will fulfill His promises, even when it seems unlikely or impossible. We must believe that He holds our future in His hands and that He is working all things for our good.
- Personal Commentary on Christian Discipleship:As disciples of Christ, we are called to believe in the power of God’s promises. We can trust that He will use us to make a difference in the world. We can trust that He will use us to impact the lives of others.
- Personal Reflection Commentary on Spiritual Growth:Spiritual growth comes when we align our beliefs with God’s promises. When we believe that God has great things in store for us, it strengthens our relationship with Him. It is essential to our spirtual health.
- Ask Yourself This Question:What promises has God given you in your life? How can you actively trust that He will fulfill those promises, even when it seems impossible?
4. Abram’s Belief (Genesis 15:6)
- Heading: “The Currency of Faith”Verse 6 beautifully concludes the story: “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” Abram’s belief was not just an intellectual acknowledgement; it was a complete surrender to God’s will and a trust in His promises. As a result, God credited his faith as righteousness. This verse highlights the transformative power of faith.
- Personal Thoughts:I am constantly reminded of the power of faith in my life. Every time I’ve stepped out in faith, trusting that God would guide me, He has been there for me every step of the way. I have seen the impossible become possible, and my faith has only grown stronger.
- Personal Commentary:Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. It’s the currency of heaven. Without faith, it’s impossible to please God. But with faith, anything is possible. Faith is not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
- Personal Commentary on Christian Discipleship:As disciples of Christ, we are called to live by faith, not by sight. We walk by faith, not by sight. We trust in God’s promises, even when we can’t see the outcome.
- Personal Reflection Commentary on Spiritual Growth:Spiritual growth comes when we exercise our faith. The more we trust in God, the more we grow spiritually. The more we exercise our faith, the more we grow spiritually. The more we exercise our faith, the more we will grow.
- Ask Yourself This Question:How can you actively exercise your faith today, trusting that God will credit it to you as righteousness?
Section 10. Final Thoughts
My friends, the story of Abram in Genesis 15 is a reminder that God is faithful to His promises, even when we face moments of doubt and uncertainty. Like Abram, we can choose to believe God, trusting that He will fulfill His plans for our lives. Let us hold onto that faith, knowing that God is always with us, guiding us, and working all things for our good. As we move forward in our Christian lives, let us strive to be people of faith, trusting God’s protection. Let’s strive to bring God’s love and light to the world around us.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your unwavering love and faithfulness. We thank you for the example of Abram, who believed you even when it seemed impossible. Help us to have that same faith, trusting that you will fulfill your promises in our lives. Guide us, protect us, and lead us in the path of righteousness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Section 11. Closing Hymn or Worship Song
As we conclude our service today, let’s stand together and sing one final song of praise. Let our voices unite in worship, as we lift our hearts toward God.
Section 12. Benediction
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all, now and forevermore. Amen.
