Summary

The sermon discusses the importance of knowing who God truly is rather than playing a guessing game about His nature. Using the story of Jephthah from the Book of Judges, the pastor illustrates how basing faith on wrong assumptions can lead to devastating consequences. Jephthah, an outcast who became a leader, made a tragic vow that cost him his daughter's life because he misunderstood God's character and was operating from a place of insecurity rather than true identity in God.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word and learn from Jephthah's story, help us to be open to understanding who You truly are. Remove our preconceptions and assumptions, and help us to see You clearly through Your word and through our discussion today. Guide our conversation and help us to grow closer to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's the most memorable game you played as a child and why did you enjoy it?

Key Verses

1. Judges 11:30-31
2. Psalm 139:7-12
3. Psalm 139:13-16

Questions

1. What are some ways people today try to 'guess who' God is instead of truly knowing Him?
2. How has your family background influenced your understanding of God?
3. What are some false assumptions about God that you've had to overcome in your faith journey?
4. How does insecurity about our identity affect our decision-making?
5. What are some practical ways we can better understand who God truly is?
6. How can we avoid making decisions based on false assumptions about God?
7. What role does community play in helping us understand our true identity in Christ?
8. How can we help others understand their value and identity in God?

Life Application

This week, commit to spending intentional time getting to know God better through one specific action: either joining a Bible study, finding a spiritual mentor, or setting aside daily time for prayer and Scripture reading. Additionally, identify one person you can share a meal with to practice building meaningful Christian community.

Key Takeaways

1. Our understanding of God should come from Scripture, not assumptions
2. Decisions based on mistaken identity often result in irreversible harm
3. God created each person with unique purpose and value
4. True identity is found in knowing who God is and who we are in Him
5. Living out our true identity requires community and regular time with God

Ending Prayer

Lord God, thank You for revealing Yourself to us through Your Word and through Your Son Jesus Christ. Help us to stop playing guessing games about who You are and instead seek to truly know You. Give us the courage to live out our true identity in You and to love others as You have loved us. Guide us as we seek to make changes in our lives that reflect Your truth. In Jesus' name, Amen.