Exodus 33:12
The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence in our lives, as we can never be complete apart from Him.
Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of God's presence in the lives of His people, reflecting on Moses' plea for God's assurance after Israel's sin with the golden calf. Despite their failures, Moses insists that the Israelites are still God's people, highlighting the importance of divine connection over mere assistance from an angel. God reassures Moses of His presence and the promise of rest, which Moses fervently desires, stating that without God's presence, he does not wish to proceed. The sermon underscores that true fulfillment and purpose can only be found in a relationship with God, as man was created to be in communion with Him.
Text
Intro: The children of Israel have broken God's law. The golden calf. Moses prayer.
I. GOD'S RESPONSE TO MOSES.
A. "Depart with these people that you have led out of Egypt, and go into the land."
1. God is not acknowledging them as His.
2. They were so quick to turn away from Him.
B. "I will send an angel before thee."
1. God is not promising to go with him.
2. Just sending an angel to help.
a. An angel can be a lot of help.
II. MOSES RESPONSE TO GOD.
A. You have told me to lead these people on, but you have not introduced me to the
angel you have promised to send.
1. I know you, I don't know your angel.
B. "This nation is Thy people."
1. Moses will not acknowledge the people as his, but God's.
a. They are not perfect, still God's people.
b. They have failed - still God's people.
Ill. GOD'S PROMISE TO MOSES.
A. "My presence will go."
B. "I will give you rest."
IV. MOSES RESPONSE TO GOD.
A. "If your presence doesn't go, don't send me."
V. THE NEED OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN OUR LIVES.
A. Man can never be complete apart from God.
1. Man was created to be three dimensional.
2. Apart from God only two dimensional.
B. We should never seek to embark upon any endeavor apart from Him.
1. No matter how righteous a program it might be.
Sermon Outline
- God's Response to Moses points: - Depart with these people that you have led out of Egypt, and go into the land - I will send an angel before thee
- Moses Response to God points: - You have told me to lead these people on, but you have not introduced me to the angel you have promised to send - This nation is Thy people
- God's Promise to Moses points: - My presence will go - I will give you rest
- Moses Response to God points: - If your presence doesn't go, don't send me
- The Need of the Presence of God in Our Lives points: - Man can never be complete apart from God - We should never seek to embark upon any endeavor apart from Him
Key Quotes
“Man can never be complete apart from God.” — Chuck Smith
“We should never seek to embark upon any endeavor apart from Him.” — Chuck Smith
“This nation is Thy people.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- We should seek God's presence in all aspects of our lives.
- We should not embark on any endeavor without God's guidance and presence.
- God's presence is essential for spiritual completeness and rest.