Pulpit Curriculum: Encountering The Glorified Christ

October 6^th – October 13^th, 2024

Sermon Summary

Today’s sermon “Encountering the Glorified Christ” begins a new series entitled “Seven: Lessons for Today’s Church”. Here, John who was exiled on Patmos, told of the vision he had after encountering Jesus. The preacher indicated that the message John was set to receive was not primarily for the seven churches alone, but also a call for us the entire church of Christ to recognize His presence and have an intimate walk with Christ. He revealed that even in trials and isolation, God is still at work. We are called to open our lives, live in His presence and authority and respond to His voice. The preacher highlights that the journey we are about to take in this series calls for a renewed commitment to listen and respond to God’s voice. In the coming weeks, as we hear His words to the seven churches, we are encouraged to allow His light to shine into every area of our lives, bringing transformation, renewal, and hope.

Verse of the Week

Revelation 1:17-18
¹⁷ “When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, ¹⁸ and the living one. I died and behold I am alive forevermore and I have the keys of Death and Hades ”

Going Deeper

Review: Revelation 1:9-20

1) Using references cite instances in the Bible where individuals experience similar encounters to John’s vision in Revelation.

a) What were the reactions/responses of the protagonists?

2) What similarities can be drawn from the descriptions used in Daniel 7, Exodus 28 and Daniel 10 when compared to that of Revelation 1.

3) According to the preacher, when we recognize His greatness, it shapes how we live and worship. Use two references in scripture where this theme is underscored.

4) Jesus not only touched John (vs17) but he also uttered some powerful words. Where else in scripture were these words referenced. Can this be deemed as a prophecy?

5) Discuss the spiritual significance of the sword as mentioned in Rev 19:15.

Assess Your Life

_{The following questions are meant to encourage personal reflection and identify areas for spiritual growth in your relationship with God. Ask yourself the questions, respond honestly, write down your responses, and then prayerfully seek God’s conviction and guidance to move forward to repentance and restoration. In discussions with your friends and family, or in your Small Group, be open to sharing your responses with others in a spirit of accountability and transparency.}

In examining your life, how does knowing that Christ has authority over life and death affect your faith during times of trial?”
What areas of your life do you need to reflect the reverence and awe as seen in John’s encounters with God?
In discussions this week, identify situations where you did not give God the honour that was due his name. Ask Him to help you to see His glory and to respond in a manner that is appropriate.

Application

_{One key objective of this Pulpit Curriculum is taking God’s truth as exposed in the sermon and helping people apply that truth in practical and intentional ways to plot a course toward obedience and transformation. This section is intended to achieve that objective.}

1) What conscious efforts can you make to actively listen to Christ’s voice in your life?

2) What are some practical steps you will take to show reverence to God in your daily encounters.

3) I will commit this week to not only set aside time to pray but also submit to Christ’s authority in all things.

I will ask_____ to hold me accountable in this.

Sermon Main Points

As followers of Christ, we are called to live with purpose and intentionality, we are called to be disciples and are commissioned to make disciples. As we seek to obey this commandment, we must:

 Open Your Eyes to His Glory (Revelation 1: 12 – 16)

 Live in His Presence and Authority (Revelation 1: 17 – 18)

 Respond to His Voice (Revelation 1 : 19 – 20)

Even in trials and isolation God is still at work.

Revelations and divine encounters often come when we are focused on God, despite our circumstances

The voice of Jesus is the Word of God that must be constantly heard and obeyed.

When we recognize His greatness, it shapes how we live and worship.

If your image of Christ is not a glorious one then your proclamation of Christ will not be an attractive one.

Christ’s identity as the eternal, living Savior brings both fear and comfort.

Though there are times God will speak in supernatural ways or through another human being, He speaks primarily through his word

Sermon Reflection

What stood out for me in this sermon?

What can I do to remember this?

5 Day Study Plan

Use the Inductive Bible Study method to study these scriptures this week and remember to share with someone else.

Follow these steps

1. Observe the text.
_{(What do you see in the text? Look for answers to questions like: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?)}

2. Interpret the text.
_{(What did God and the human author of the text want the original people reading this text to understand/do? Why?)}

3. Apply the text.
_{(How do I need to change in my thinking, my affections, my attitudes, and/or my actions?)}

Day 1 - Exodus 3:5-6