Vaughn Park Church of Christ (Sermons)

Planning and providence are not mutually exclusive. Though worry and obsession with worldly things can undermine our faith, the Bible clearly demonstrates that God has a design for redeeming His creation. As we continue our study of Exodus: Hope Fulfilled, Tim draws our attention to chapter 18 where we contemplate our place in God’s plan.

A war is raging, but the victory is won! As we continue our study of Exodus: Hope Fulfilled, Will puts the battle with the Amalekites into historical perspective. We can continue to engage the enemy with love and boldness knowing God has overcome, despite our weakness.

The story of the Israelites’ miraculous escape at the Red Sea isn’t primarily about them. It isn’t about Moses. It’s about God. In today’s lesson, Tim asks us, “Who is our story about?” Do we allow God to apply his presence and promises to our problems? Are we willing to march into the storm or the sea, knowing He’s got our back?

What does the Passover mean? It’s about new beginnings; preparation and urgency; and celebration. In today’s three-part lesson, Tim helps us embrace these meanings in our own lives — lives which, through Christ, are more abundant.

Why frogs? Among the Exodus plagues, Egypt’s inundation with frogs provides multiple lessons. Frogs are a symbol of idolatry but also seemingly harmless. Yet, in abundance, they bring Pharaoh to his knees. As we continue our study of Hope Fulfilled, Tim uses frogs as a metaphor for the change we so often put off until tomorrow.

What does it mean to have a God? Who or what is first in your life? In today’s lesson, Tim uses Exodus Chapters 6 and 7 as a starting point to see how God defeated the gods of Egypt. The plagues help us contemplate things taking preeminence in our lives which keep us from experiencing Zoe! — a life more abundant.

Who is the Lord? Pharaoh asked this question in defiance. He didn’t want to obey. In today’s lesson, Tim uses Exodus 5 to prompt the question, “How well do we know the Lord?” Is He the great I AM, or do we only know about who He was or what He will do for us?

What is in your hand? Instead of focusing on what we can’t do and who we aren’t, Exodus 4 challenges us to consider how God can use what we already have -- if we will give it to Him. In today’s lesson, Tim encourages us to discover our “stick” as we become more “youier.”

What’s your excuse? When God called Moses, the would-be deliverer argued he wasn’t good enough; didn’t know enough; and couldn’t speak well. He even asked God to send someone else. As we turn to Exodus Chapter 3, Tim challenges us to spend time at our own burning bush asking God what He’s calling us to do. To answer the call, we must stop looking inward and start looking up.