GOD’S REFINING FIRE

Mar 19

We hope today’s message was encouraging and helpful. These notes are meant to help you remember and reflect on the message, help you go deeper into study on the subject, or to be used for a Bible/sermon group study. Enjoy!

Main Scripture: MALACHI 2:17-3:5 NLT

The people of Israel have seen the thriving success of the nations around them. They now have developed a false ideology about the character of God. Thinking that God delights in evil, and asking for God’s Justice. Israel’s inability to see God’s true character has wearied The Lord.

Notes:

Malachi 2:17

We are God’s creation, created in His image. This includes the emotions that we experience. Throughout scripture God experiences a range of emotions. In this scripture Israel has moved God to weariness.

The original Hebrew word for weary is Yaga. which means to be labored, tired, or exhausted. Scripture teaches us so much about emotions. Ephesians 4:26, James 1:19.

Malachi 3:1-4

The nation of Israel wanted justice. But in God’s weariness he didn't give them justice they were asking for; He gave them the grace that they needed. He sent them Jesus. Matt 26:53 is our evidence. Jesus could have saved himself. But in His weariness He didn't. He Gave His life up for us.

Malachi 3:5

God reassures Israel that one day, justice and judgement will come. For the sinners, jew or gentile. We see more examples of this in Romans 1 are 1 corinthians 6.

Application Points:

Examine your perspectives of God’s Character
Turn the heat up
Do not fear the Lord’s judgement

Discussion:

What is one thing from the message that resonated with you?
Have you ever made a regrettable decision because you were angry, exhausted, weary (Yaga)?
We see the false idea “God delights in evil” in verse 17. Are there any false ideologies that our modern day culture believes about God?
How do emotions play into your faith journey?
Has there been a family pattern of behavior that you have had to change?
What kind of legacy do you want to leave your family?
In what ways are you allowing the Lord to sanctify you (refine you in the fire)?
What can we pray for regarding the sermon? Do you have any prayer needs?

The most important decision you will ever make!

If you’re ready to trust in Jesus for salvation and eternal life we encourage you to process this decision with a strong believer and when you’re ready say a simple prayer like this from your heart: Dear God, I acknowledge and admit I have sinned. I see my need for Jesus Christ. I believe in Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I believe I am forgiven and cleansed of my sin by His death. I also believe I have eternal life because of His resurrection from the dead. I repent, I turn away from my old ways and I choose to live my life to worship you and follow Jesus, Amen!

We would love to know if you decided to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let us know here.