Worthy of a Changed Life | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of understanding God's holiness and love, and how these two attributes are interconnected. We must not lose sight of His Holiness, which is a reminder of our place before Him, but also acknowledge His love for us, which is demonstrated through His throne of grace. This balance is crucial in our walk with God, as we cannot focus solely on one aspect to the neglect of the other.

Key Scripture References

• Exodus 34:6-7 - In this passage, Moses encounters God's glory and receives a revelation of His character. God speaks His name, describing Himself as merciful, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
• Revelation 5:1-14 - This passage describes the scene in heaven where every eye is fixed on the Throne of God, and all creation acknowledges His worthiness. The Lamb who was slain is worthy to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.
• Hebrews 4:16 - This verse reminds us that we have a high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, who sits on the throne of grace. We can approach Him with confidence, knowing that He is merciful and gracious.
• Exodus 19-34 - These chapters describe Moses' encounters with God on Mount Sinai, where he receives a revelation of God's character and nature. This passage highlights the importance of understanding both God's holiness and love.
• Psalm 103:8-14 - This psalm reminds us that God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. He forgives our sins and heals our diseases.

The Importance of Balance

We must not lose sight of God's holiness, which is a reminder of our place before Him. However, we also cannot neglect His love for us, which is demonstrated through His throne of grace. This balance is crucial in our walk with God, as we cannot focus solely on one aspect to the neglect of the other.

Understanding God's Love

Some people struggle to believe in God's love because they have experienced rejection or abandonment in their lives. However, this message emphasizes that God's love is not based on our worthiness, but rather on His character as a merciful and gracious God.

The Throne of Grace

The throne of grace is where we can approach God with confidence, knowing that He is merciful and gracious. We do not have to earn His love or prove ourselves worthy; instead, we can come before Him in humility and receive His mercy and grace.