In the sermon titled "Our God is Too Small," Greg Elmquist addresses the theological doctrine of God's sovereignty, omnipotence, and holiness, emphasizing that a diminished view of God leads to various personal and communal struggles, including fear, doubt, and sinful behavior. He argues that these issues stem from failing to recognize God's true nature as the sovereign Creator who needs nothing from humanity to accomplish His purposes. Elmquist supports his claims with Scripture references, particularly Psalm 85 and Psalm 2, illustrating the reconciliation of mercy and justice at the cross of Christ and God's ultimate authority over worldly power. The practical significance of this message lies in the call for believers to elevate their view of God, fostering deeper faith and reliance on His power in all circumstances, thus transforming their response to life's challenges.
Key Quotes
“The only way that God could be just and justify sinners… was to place our sin on his sinless son and to pour out the full wrath of his justice on our substitute, our sin bearer.”
“All of the things that we struggle with in this world would… be no more when we have the view of God that we ought to have.”
“You thought that I was altogether such a one as thyself… but I will reprove thee and set them in order before thine eyes.”
“There is a God in heaven whose eyes are open to everything. A God with whom we must do.”
God's righteousness and mercy meet at the cross, where Christ was sacrificed for our sins, fulfilling the justice of God while extending mercy to sinners.
The Bible teaches that God's righteousness and mercy are perfectly reconciled at the cross of Christ. As stated in Psalm 85, 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' This illustrates how God demands perfect righteousness, yet also desires to show mercy to sinners. At Mount Calvary, God placed our sins on His sinless Son, pouring out His wrath to satisfy justice while simultaneously extending grace to those who believe. This act not only exemplifies God's holiness but also highlights the fullness of His love and mercy.
Psalm 85:10; Romans 3:23-26; Hebrews 9:22
The sovereignty of God is affirmed in Scripture, showing that He orchestrates all events, from the grand scale of the universe to personal circumstances.
The sovereignty of God is a fundamental doctrine in Scripture, asserting that He rules all creation and nothing happens outside His control. Psalm 2 illustrates how even the actions of earthly kings and rulers occur within God's sovereign plan. God's control encompasses both the 'big picture' of world events and the minutiae of individual lives, ensuring that everything unfolds according to His divine will. Understanding this sovereignty cultivates a deeper trust in God, relieving anxiety and fostering peace, as we recognize that He holds everything in His hand.
Psalm 2; Proverbs 16:9; Romans 8:28
A high view of God leads to increased faith, obedience, and worship, impacting every facet of a believer's life.
Having a high view of God is crucial for Christians, as it shapes our understanding of who God is and the reality of our dependence on Him. When we esteem God as He truly is—holy, powerful, and sovereign—we recognize our own sinfulness and need for His grace. This perspective leads to a genuine worship experience characterized by reverence and awe. Furthermore, a correct view of God informs our faith, giving us strength to persevere through trials while reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. It encourages us to live lives that reflect His glory in our conduct and in our relationships with others.
Psalm 8:1-4; Isaiah 6:1-5; Romans 12:1-2
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, directing believers to live in reverence and obedience to Him.
The fear of God is a foundational concept throughout Scripture, signifying reverence and awe for His holiness and power. It is described as the beginning of wisdom in Proverbs 9:10, guiding believers toward a life of obedience and faithfulness. This fear is not merely terror; rather, it encompasses a deep respect that leads us to acknowledge God's sovereignty in every aspect of life. As we cultivate a healthy fear of God, we gain insight into His will and draw closer to Him, empowering us to navigate challenges with confidence that He is ultimately in control. Such reverence fosters humility, as we recognize our dependency on His mercy and grace.
Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
God reveals Himself through Scripture, creation, and ultimately through Jesus Christ, allowing us to know Him accurately.
God reveals Himself in various ways, primarily through His written Word and the created order. The Scriptures provide an authoritative account of God's nature, His works, and His redemptive plan for humanity. Additionally, creation itself testifies to God’s greatness and power, as seen in Romans 1:20. However, the fullest revelation of God comes through Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of the Godhead. In Christ's life, death, and resurrection, we see the character of God displayed—the perfect blend of justice and mercy. This revelation invites us into a relationship with Him, calling for trust and submission to His lordship.
John 1:14; Romans 1:20; Hebrews 1:1-3
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