Bethel Church of Houston

After the hesitations, intial efforts, and compounded suffering and disappointments, the drama begins as the God of Hebrews confronts the gods of this world. In one sense, this cosmic conflict is now "finished"! Yet, in another sense, it continues today, sometimes played out in our living rooms, board rooms, and class rooms.

How our God of promise worked in history was often unexpected and surprising. Examining His works in the past and considering His ongoing, worked-out purposes in our daily lives reminds us that "[His] thoughts are not [our] thoughts, neither are [our] ways [His] ways."

It's so counter-intuitive we are stunned: after risky obedience often comes worse circumstances and deeper opposition. So it was for Moses and his crew...and so it often is for us. How do we find solid footing when it seems all is slipping away around us?

This morning our church family observes and celebrates both foundational rituals that Jesus left His church. Over 2,000 years various interpretations regarding Baptism and the Lord's Table have caused these to be flashpoints of controversy. How sad, because they are some of God's very best gifts to us. Properly understood, they can influence the way we live every day.

Immediately after the spiritual awakening and revival among the Lord's people, Israel, Moses and Aaron approach Pharoah -- and two steps forward end up looking like three steps back. The people become frustrated...but something much more is going on here. Essentially who will be God? We'll face that same question tomorrow morning, if not before.

Moses' reunion and leadership partnership with Aaron results in the inital presentation of Yahweh's plan and purposes for His people Israel. Their responses are instructive for us, for they demonstrate what happens when God makes himself known. Is this still happening today?

One of our fundamental desires is the proclamation of "the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). This calls for a well-rounded, grounded understanding of the broad, deep, mysterious attributes and actions of our infinite God. This morning we are reminded that "...the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10).

TITLE: "Coming to Faith"

SCRIPTURE: John 20

SPEAKER: Dr. Peter Williams

One more objection, which may or may not have been legitimate... and then an outright request for release: so Moses responds to His commission. In the Lord's replies we find insight and instruction about what may well be the most important thing on earth.

Whether or not Moses' continuing questions represent a lack of faith, or not, we likely can understand his concerns, questions and fears. God calls His people to great tasks, often beyond themselves. What's up with that? And what's that in your hand?