Mt. Moriah
Series: What Faith Moves: The Mountains of the Bible
Sermon Title: Mount Nebo and Mount Tabor
Speaker: Sam Rainer
Date: August 11,, 2024
Reflect
- What is one significant mountain you’ve climbed or visited in your life? How did it make you feel?
- Can you share a time when you faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge? How did that experience change your faith, or how did your faith change that experience?
Encounter
- Read Matthew 17:20. What do you think Jesus means by having faith as small as a mustard seed? How can this kind of faith impact our lives today?
- Reflect on Deuteronomy 34:1-8. What do you think Moses felt when he saw the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, knowing he wouldn’t enter it? How does this relate to our own experiences with unfulfilled promises?
- In Judges 4:17-23, Deborah’s leadership and Israel’s victory are highlighted. How does this story illustrate the importance of obedience to God’s commands? What lessons can we draw from Deborah’s faith and courage?
Transform
- Considering the sermon, what “mountains” in your life need to be moved by faith? How can you focus more on the object of your faith (Jesus) rather than the size of your faith?
- As a church, how can we collectively address the “mountains” of sin and division within our community? What practical steps can we take to promote unity and grace?
Additional Discussion Questions
- How does the concept of partial obedience, as seen in the book of Judges, apply to our lives today? What are some areas where we might be partially obedient to God’s commands?
- What are some practical ways we can strengthen our faith and trust in God daily? Share specific practices or habits that have helped you grow in faith.
- How can we support each other in our faith journeys, especially when facing doubts or challenges? What role does community play in strengthening our faith?
Interesting Facts and Tidbits
- Mount Nebo is located in modern-day Jordan, offering a panoramic view of the Promised Land. It’s traditionally believed to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died.
- Mount Tabor is often identified as the site of the Transfiguration of Jesus, where He was revealed in His divine glory to Peter, James, and John.
- The theme of mountains in the Bible often symbolizes significant encounters with God, moments of revelation, and pivotal points in biblical narratives.
Related Passages
- Matthew 17:1-9 (The Transfiguration) – This passage provides a detailed account of Jesus’ transfiguration, highlighting His divine nature and the disciples’ reaction.
- Deuteronomy 34:1-8 (Moses Views the Promised Land) – This passage gives the background of Moses seeing the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, a crucial moment in Israel’s history.
- Judges 4:1-24 (Deborah and Barak) – This passage details the leadership of Deborah and the victory over the Canaanites, emphasizing faith and obedience to God.
- Joshua 1:1-11 (God’s Commission to Joshua) – This passage emphasizes the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the importance of strength, courage, and obedience to God’s Word.
- Hosea 5:1 (Judgment Against Israel’s Leaders) – This verse highlights the consequences of Israel’s disobedience and the spiritual significance of Mount Tabor.