Finding the Father's Face | Father-God is nearby
Our first class in this series for the Watford men was eye-opening. We shared some of our joy as well as frustration in seeking to develop an accurate picture of God and awareness of his nearness. Is this something you relate to? The Scriptures are replete with direct and indirect assurances as to the nearby-ness of God:
“God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.” (Acts 17:27 NIV11)
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5 NIV11)
“Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” (John 14:23 NIV11)
“while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20 NIV11)
““Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” Then a voice came from heaven,“I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to him. Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.” (John 12:27–30 NIV11)
I especially like that last one. It's as if God was unable to help himself from breaking through into our experience. He is there, immanent, close, nearby - but reticent to force his presence upon us. That's why I like the word 'nearby'. He is available, not controlling.
I have made a summary recording of the class which you can find below. In the meantime I give you the following questions for reflection.
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