Francis Chan: Longing for the Presence of God - SBC Pastors Conference

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of having a genuine longing for the presence of God, rather than just quoting or representing Him through others. The speaker encourages believers to go beyond mere technique and strategy, and instead, seek a deep personal relationship with God. This requires a willingness to rest in His presence, trust in His sovereignty, and acknowledge one's own limitations and insecurities.

Key Scripture References

• Isaiah 30:1-15 - These verses highlight the Israelites' stubbornness in following their own plans without consulting God. They were content to quote Him and follow His words, but they didn't truly desire His presence or direction. This serves as a warning to modern-day believers who may be doing the same.
• Isaiah 53:10 - This verse emphasizes that it was the will of the Lord to crush Jesus on the cross, demonstrating God's sovereignty and willingness to sacrifice His own Son for humanity. This passage underscores the depth of God's love and the importance of trusting in His plan.
• Mark 14:34 - In this passage, Jesus' sorrow and anguish are palpable as He prepares for the cross. He falls to the ground and prays that the hour might pass from Him, highlighting the depth of His humanity and His reliance on God's will.
• Isaiah 30:15 - This verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and waiting patiently for His guidance. It encourages believers to rest in His presence and trust that He will exalt Himself to show mercy to those who wait for Him.
• Mark 14:36 - Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, "Abba Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me," demonstrates the depth of His humanity and His reliance on God's will. This passage highlights the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and relying on His power.

Key Takeaways

• The importance of having a genuine longing for the presence of God, rather than just quoting or representing Him through others.
• The need to rest in God's presence, trust in His sovereignty, and acknowledge one's own limitations and insecurities.
• The depth of God's love and willingness to sacrifice His own Son for humanity, as demonstrated in Isaiah 53:10.
• The importance of trusting in God's plan and waiting patiently for His guidance, as emphasized in Isaiah 30:15.
• The need to rely on God's power and trust in His sovereignty, as highlighted in Mark 14:36.

Application

This message encourages believers to reflect on their own relationship with God and assess whether they are truly seeking His presence or just going through the motions. It challenges them to rest in His presence, trust in His sovereignty, and acknowledge their own limitations and insecurities. Ultimately, it invites believers to surrender to God's will and trust in His plan for their lives.