daddy4ms

Introduction: My introduction last week focused on various views of God that people in the church and in our culture have.   We looked at who God is based on Nehemiah’s prayer.   God creates, God keeps his promises, God rescues, God provides.   Opening : How do you view yourself? How do you view humans? How do you view characters in the Bible? Abraham-lied, Noah-got drunk, David-committed adultery, killed someone, Peter-denied Jesus, Paul-killed Christians ·          As I mentioned last week, Nehemiah 9 is the longest recorded prayer in the Bible. The emphasis throughout the prayer is on what God has done. [1] ·          Pattern in this prayer but they (Israelites)….but you (God) They …but God was forgiving, gracious, compassionate, slow to anger abounding in love (vs. 16-17) ·          Vs. 16-arrogant & stiff necked & did...

Opening: I hate being late.   Raise your hands if you can relate.   Most recent example: airport in Atlanta-arrived at gate 5 minutes before departure while plane was still sitting at the gate. Why do we hate being late? It affects our schedule or plan, It is inconvenient to us or others, and it means we are not in control. Today’s Scripture from John 11:17-37 reveals an example of when everyone is accusing Jesus of being late. Background- Jesus loved Mary, Martha, & Lazarus(11:5) He stayed two more days-why?-God’s glory (11:4) (Vs. 17-27) Jesus is the Resurrection and Life Vs. 17-19-Setting of story-Bethany, Jesus is four days late, many have gathered to comfort Martha and Mary Vs. 20-When Martha heard. . . she went out to meet Jesus & Mary stayed at home Martha’s personality Distracted by the preparations and busy-Luke 10:38-42 Martha served-John 12:2 The point is not to compare two sisters. Don’t be a Martha, be like Mary but...