(Exodus 20:7-11)
SERMON OUTLINE
“You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God… Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” (Exodus 20:7,8)
Set Apart in Our Words (Exodus 20:7)
- The Name and God’s identity (Exodus 20:2)
- Useless words that demean God (Exodus 20:7)
- Distorted words that distort God (Exodus 20:7)
- What demeaning or distorting God’s identity does to us
Set Apart in Our Time (Exodus 20:8-11)
- A day to stop, cease and rest (Exodus 20:8)
- Setting a different rhythm from our tireless work (Exodus 20:10)
- Setting a different rhythm through attention to God (Exodus 20:11; Deuteronomy 5:15)
- What forgetting the Sabbath does to us
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- As image bearers of our Creator, we reflect some of God’s characteristics. Since God is love, we are imprinted with a need to be loved and give love. Discuss your top 3 loves in this world. (Note: This can be things or people)
- What is it about these things/people that stir up your affections for them?
- What do you think God’s answer to question 1 would be? Why?
- Many people have a negative view of “the God of the Old Testament.” Why do you think that is?
- In movies and art, God is portrayed as an old man with a long white beard. Take some time to come up with a metaphor for how you would describe God and share it with the group.
- How does your answer to question 5 reflect your view of God? How does it reflect how you relate to God?
- Discuss anything you can recall from the message this weekend. What did God speak to you about through the message? What, if anything, is God leading you to do?
- Read Exodus 20:1-6. What gods and/or idols are prevalent in the world? In the church? In your life?
- Read Matthew 22:37-40. How do we love God with: all our heart? all our soul? all our mind?
- What is one specific way that you will love God with your heart, soul, and mind?