Francis Chan: We Are Church - Church Together, May 2016

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message is a heartfelt plea from the speaker, who shares his personal journey of coming to love God deeply. He expresses concern for those who may claim to believe in God but lack a genuine relationship with Him. The speaker emphasizes that it's not enough to simply know about God or even fear Him; true faith involves loving Him and living according to His commands.

Key Scripture References

• James 2:19 - This verse highlights the difference between mere intellectual assent and genuine faith. The speaker notes that even demons believe in God, but it's not the same as truly loving Him.
• Psalms 111:10 - This passage emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord as the beginning of wisdom. The speaker uses this verse to illustrate how some people may claim to fear God but lack a deep understanding of His character.
• 1 John 4:8 - This verse is quoted by the speaker, who notes that Jesus says if we love Him, we'll obey His commands. However, many people claim to love God without putting it into practice in their daily lives.
• Isaiah - The book of Isaiah is referenced as a reminder of humanity's sinful nature and the need for God's mercy and forgiveness.

The Problem with Cheap Words

The speaker expresses concern that many people use cheap words, claiming to love God without putting it into practice. He notes that true faith involves living according to God's commands and demonstrating a deep love for Him through our actions.

The Creator's Love

The speaker shares his awe at the vastness of creation and the incredible love of the Creator who made us all. He emphasizes that we were created for His glory, but many people live their lives without considering or honoring God.

Loving God with All Our Heart

The Bible says that loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength is the most important command. The speaker notes that this involves more than just knowing about God or even fearing Him; it requires a deep and abiding love for Him.

Our Rebellion Against God

The speaker acknowledges humanity's rebellion against God, noting that we've all sinned and fallen short of His standards. However, He emphasizes the amazing love of God, who sent His Son to pay for our sins and demonstrate His love for us.

Finding True Faith

The speaker encourages listeners to seek a genuine relationship with God, one that involves trusting in Him and living according to His commands. He notes that true faith is not just about intellectual assent but about experiencing the transformative power of God's love in our lives.