Intro:

Good morning! We’re navigating a tough week, having just hosted a funeral for Drew Hall, deeply loved in our community, who passed away in a climbing accident. Our hearts are with his wife and daughters. Next week, our Exeter church family, who we just prayed off, joins us for baptisms – this is the life of the church: joy and sorrow, but Jesus is always with us. Today, we delve into listening, a profound theme from Proverbs.

Scripture References: Proverbs 2:1-5, Proverbs 5:1-2, Proverbs 22:17, Proverbs 13:1, Proverbs 15:31-32, Proverbs 4:20, Proverbs 5:1, Genesis 1, Psalm 33:6, Deuteronomy 6, Genesis 21:17, Proverbs 15:29, Luke 24:25-32

Key Points:

• God Is Always Speaking, Calling Us to Listen:
  • Proverbs emphasizes God's constant communication, urging us to be attentive listeners.
  • The Seattle School of Theology's daily "chime" ritual reminds students their work is done in the presence of a living, speaking God.
• Listening for Wisdom and Instruction:
  • Proverbs consistently calls us to listen for knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:1-5, 5:1-2, 22:17).
  • It also stresses receiving instruction and discipline (Proverbs 13:1, 15:31-32). Embracing God's loving discipline transforms us.
  • Proverbs’ urgent tone (e.g., Proverbs 4:20, 5:1) highlights the gravity of listening to God's words. It’s the single most important thing we can learn.
• Listening in God's Grand Story:
  • Creation: From Genesis 1 ("Let there be light"), God speaks first. Our design is to listen and respond. Keith Anderson notes God's voice in creation is the first evidence of His love. Intentional listening means emptying our agenda, being curious, and present. Grab a "Five Ways to Practice Listening" card at the connect table!
  • Old Testament (Shema): Deuteronomy 6 commands, "Listen, O Israel... love the Lord your God." Listening precedes loving. God's listening (e.g., Hagar and Ishmael in Genesis 21:17) isn't for His knowing, but to express His love, care, and that we are known (Proverbs 15:29). What He hears is never a barrier to His love.
  • Jesus' Incarnation: Jesus often said, "Let anyone who has ears hear." The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:25-32) shows disciples, disillusioned by Christ's crucifixion, unknowingly walking with Jesus. As He spoke, their hearts "burned." Encountering Jesus opens our ears and hearts to God's voice. Proximity to Jesus happens in simple, earthy ways (walking, sharing a meal, being with companions).
• The Problem is Connection, Not God's Speaking:
  • Like the story of Pete Gregg unknowingly broadcasting his podcast, God is always speaking. The problem is often our connection.
  • Busyness, disappointment, a cold heart, or distance from Jesus can hinder our listening. Our job is to approach God with intentionality, love, and closeness to Jesus.

Conclusion:

Our ability to listen to God is foundational. From creation to Jesus, God's story shows He actively speaks and listens out of love. This security allows us to confidently listen to Him.

Call to Action:

As we come to the table, remember Christ's presence bridges all distance. If your heart feels cold, or you need to know God hears you, pray with us. We'll worship and take communion, remembering Jesus, who perfectly embodied listening and drew close to us, offering new life. Be responsive to prayer; we want to connect you to Jesus.

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