New - New Connection

Message Notes:

Byron begins his message by drawing a contrast between “knowing facts and stats” about the Grand Canyon and actually “making a two day adventure hike from one rim of the Grand Canyon to the other.”

•“Hikers know the canyon in a way that rim huggers never will.”

Byron uses the above story as an illustration for this:

•There is a difference between “Knowing Bible Facts about God” and actually “Knowing God” in a relational and experiential way.

Read the following as Biblical examples:

•John 17:3

•1 John 5:20

•Matthew 15:8

Next, Byron will spend some time developing the story about Jesus at the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. (Luke 10:38-42)

•Lesson: It is possible to good works for God and not have a true relationship with God.

•“There are people who say they want to spend eternity with God, but, ironically, they don’t want to spend time with Him now.”

There are at least a couple of dangers related to church:

•You may develop an “unhealthy” dependance on the spiritual skills of others.

•You may neglect to develop your own personal relationship with God.

Discussion Questions:

Think of an example about someone (in our American culture) of whom you know many facts — but you do not really “know them personally.”

•Can you see the resemblance of this idea above, with what can happen with us and our relationship with God.

•Which would you say is greater in your life (1) I know facts about Jesus/God from the Bible, or (2) I feel that I have a loving and growing relationship with God?

Byron said in his message: “To build a relationship with anyone — God included — it takes time, effort, patience, and a willingness to nurture that relationship.”

•What could you do over this next week to build your prayer life?

•Can you begin reading your Bible with the following mindset: “God, what do you want to say to me from this reading today?”

Read and meditate on the following passages from the Bible:

•John 17:3

•1 John 5:20

•Matthew 15:8

•Luke 10:38-42