This message was deeply rooted in Exodus 3 and aimed to explore the profound significance of God's name and how it shapes our understanding of His nature and relationship with us.
Chris began with a story that highlighted the importance of names. He shared how the Air Jordan brand's success was built on the association of a name, stressing how a name can hold immense value and impact.
We journeyed through the history of God's relationship with humanity, from creation to the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt. This history showcased God's sovereignty, His ability to use challenging situations for restoration, and His desire for a relationship with His people.
The heart of the sermon was God's revelation of His name to Moses in Exodus 3. We explored the name "I AM WHO I AM" and what it signifies. This name transcends mere existence; it reveals God's active and eternal being. It underscores His personal nature, illustrating that He is the creator, provider, sustainer, and promise keeper.
We discussed how this personal name transforms our relationship with God. Chris contrasted it with abstract deities, showing that God's actions validate His identity. The use of the name YHWH (I AM) signifies faith and a close, intimate connection with God.
Moving to the Gospel of John, I drew connections between God's revelation in the Old Testament and Jesus' claims in the New Testament. Jesus identifies Himself with the title "I AM." His claims and actions, such as miracles, reaffirm His identity as the embodiment of God's active and personal nature.
We began a series of statements from the Gospel of John where Jesus uses "I AM" followed by a clarifier. Each statement exemplifies Jesus' ability to fulfill immediate and eternal needs, establishing Him as the ultimate provider and satisfier.
The sermon closed with a challenge for everyone to reevaluate their perception of Jesus. Is He seen as distant or personal, abstract or purposeful? Recognizing Jesus as the "I AM" has a transformative impact, inviting us to take a step of faith.
Chris also shared a glimpse of the next sermon, which would focus on the story of the woman at the well in John 4.