The sermon titled "Except the Lord" by Norm Wells delves into the complexities of human depravity and divine providence as illustrated in Judges 9:7-21. The key theological theme centers around God's sovereignty and grace in the narrative of Jotham, the last surviving son of Gideon. Wells emphasizes how Jotham’s survival amidst the slaughter of his brothers exemplifies God's merciful providence and foreshadows Christ as the ultimate hiding place for believers. Reference is made to Psalms 32:7 and 119:114 to underscore the significance of being hidden in God, while Isaiah 32:2 connects Jotham's role to Christ. Practically, the sermon asserts that true security and hope come from God alone, reflecting the Reformed doctrine of God’s sovereignty over human affairs, especially in contrast to man’s natural inclination toward rebellion and idolatry.
Key Quotes
“God overruled, God oversaw, God provided, and this man is gonna be used to present the truth to the rest of those individuals.”
“Except the Lord build a house, they labor in vain that build it.”
“The only hope we have is God will do something.”
“It's not the messenger, it's the message.”
The Bible instructs believers to find refuge in Christ, who is described as a hiding place in Psalms.
The concept of hiding in Christ is a profound biblical theme, found in various passages such as Psalm 32:7, which states, 'Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble.' Here, God is depicted as a protective refuge for His people. This idea is illustrated through the story of Jotham, the youngest son of Gideon, who hid himself to escape death, symbolizing how believers can find safety in Jesus. In Psalm 119:114, it reiterates, 'Thou art my hiding place and my shield,' emphasizing the importance of being shielded by God’s presence. Ultimately, being hidden in Christ conveys the assurance of divine protection and providence in the lives of believers.
Psalm 32:7, Psalm 119:114
God's sovereignty is affirmed throughout Scripture, demonstrating His control over history and events.
The sovereignty of God is a cornerstone of Reformed theology, asserting that God reigns supreme over all creation and history. This truth is evident in Romans 8:28, where it promises that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. In the narrative of Judges, specifically with Jotham and Abimelech, we see God's hand at work despite the evil actions of mankind. For instance, Romans 9:17 clarifies that God raised up rulers like Pharaoh to display His power. Such passages affirm that nothing occurs outside of God's sovereign will and purpose, ensuring that He orchestrates events for His glory and the ultimate good of His people.
Romans 8:28, Romans 9:17
Understanding God's providence reassures Christians of His active involvement and care in their lives.
The doctrine of God's providence is critical for Christians, as it affirms that God is actively involved in the details of our lives, guiding and sustaining us through all circumstances. Psalm 127:1 emphasizes, 'Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it,' illustrating that human efforts are futile without God's blessing and guidance. Moreover, the story of Jotham in Judges showcases how God’s providence protects and preserves His people, even amidst chaos and rebellion. By recognizing God’s hand in their lives, Christians are encouraged to trust His plans, believing that all things work together for good (Romans 8:28), and that He sovereignly cares for their welfare.
Psalm 127:1, Romans 8:28
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