How Does God Speak to Us?
Job 33:14
God does speak – sometimes one way and sometimes another – even though people may not understand it (NCV)
1. God Speaks through the Bible
2 Timothy 3:16
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2. God Speaks through Gifted Teachers
1 Thessalonians 2:13
when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe
1 Corinthians 2:13
This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.
3. God Speaks through Impressions
John 14:26
But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
Two Extremes to Avoid
1. The Rationalist – denies God ever speaks
2. The Mystic – thinks every impression is from God
Job 33:14+16 (GN)
God speaks again and again, in dreams and visions at night when deep sleep falls… as people lie on their beds. He opens their ears in times like that and gives them wisdom and instruction.
Warning: Always Test Impressions
4. God Speaks through Pain
Proverbs 20:30 (GN)
Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways
Psalm 119:67+71
I used to wander off until you disciplined me; but now I closely follow your word…My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees.
Why is it so important to hear God speak?
1. It means I’m in God’s family
John 10:14+16b
I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me…They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
2. It protects me from mistakes
Job 33:17-18
He speaks...(and) He makes them turn from doing wrong; he keeps them from pride. He protects them from the grave,
Why is it so important to hear God speak?
3. It’s the secret of a productive life
John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.
God is speaking…are we listening
Hebrews 3:15
Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts
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