Study Guide

Introduction: The Context of Matthew 14

• Description: The sermon opens with a focus on Matthew 14, particularly the story of Jesus walking on water and calling Peter out of the boat during a storm.
• Main Points:
  • Emphasis on the supernatural aspect of God’s nature.
  • The unpredictability of God’s timing.
• Scripture: Matthew 14:22-25

The Concept of God’s Timing

• Description: Explores the idea that God often acts in what humans perceive as the ‘last moment’ or ‘fourth watch of the night.’
• Main Points:
  • God’s actions don’t align with human expectations of timing.
  • The darkest moments often precede God’s intervention.
• Scripture: No specific verse mentioned, but refers to the general narrative of Matthew 14.

The Pursuit of God and Our Response

• Description: Discusses how God is always present and pursues humans, but it’s our responsibility to respond and recognize His presence.
• Main Points:
  • God is omnipresent and continually seeking a relationship with us.
  • We often miss recognizing God’s presence in our lives.
• Scripture: Psalms 139:5-8 (God’s omnipresence)

The Protection and Guidance of God

• Description: Highlights how God’s presence offers protection and guidance, drawing parallels with the Israelites in the desert.
• Main Points:
  • Obedience to God leads to His protection and guidance.
  • God’s guidance is both visible (like the Israelites’ cloud and fire) and unseen.
• Scripture: Psalms 139:5; Exodus 14 (Cloud and Fire with Israelites)

The Reality of God’s Constant Presence

• Description: Reiterates that God is always with us, even in the darkest or most challenging times.
• Main Points:
  • Believers are never alone; God is always present.
  • God’s presence is not dependent on our feelings or perceptions.
• Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6 (God will never leave or forsake)

The Supernatural Life Beyond Church Walls

• Description: Encourages believers to recognize that God’s supernatural power is not limited to church settings but extends into everyday life.
• Main Points:
  • God is active and present in mundane, everyday situations.
  • Believers are called to be aware and responsive to God’s presence in all circumstances.
• Scripture: No specific scripture mentioned.

Trusting in God’s Plan and Presence

• Description: Focuses on trusting God’s plan, especially during long waiting periods or seasons of preparation.
• Main Points:
  • Long periods of waiting or challenges have a purpose in God’s plan.
  • Patience and trust in God are crucial during these times.
• Scripture: No specific scripture mentioned.

Conclusion: Affirmation of God’s Ever-Presence

• Description: Concludes with a powerful affirmation of God’s constant presence and a call to worship and prayer.
• Main Points:
  • Acknowledgment of God’s continuous presence in all aspects of life.
  • Encouragement to seek and celebrate God’s presence actively.
• Scripture: No specific scripture mentioned, but a general call to prayer and worship.