Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

The Power of Godly Encouragement - Pastor Daniel Batarseh (Maranatha Shabiba Conference 2018)

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Scripture References

1 Samuel 23:15-18Acts 13:222 Chronicles 15:72 Samuel 13:3Acts 4:361 Thessalonians 5:11Psalms 142:7Hebrews 3:13

Sermon Summary

Pastor Daniel Batarseh explores the vital role of godly encouragement by examining the relationship between David and Jonathan. He challenges believers to move from seeking encouragement to becoming intentional 'Jonathans' who strengthen others in God.

Key Takeaways

1Spiritual maturity and a heart for God do not exempt you from the need for encouragement.
2Godly encouragement is an intentional, calculated action, not just a spontaneous feeling.
3True encouragement 'strengthens hands in God' by pointing to His character and promises rather than human self-esteem.
4The ministry of encouragement is a biblical command for every believer, regardless of their public platform or title.
5Consistency in encouragement is vital because the deceitfulness of sin can begin hardening a heart in just one day.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why do we often struggle to admit we are discouraged when we are trying to live faithfully for God?
2Pastor Daniel mentioned that Jonathan's encouragement was 'calculated.' How does planning to encourage someone change the way we view our daily interactions?
3In 1 Samuel 23, Jonathan reminds David of God's past promises. Why is our memory of God's faithfulness so short during a trial?
4What is the difference between 'strengthening someone's hand in God' and simply trying to make them feel better about themselves?
5Hebrews 3:13 suggests hearts can harden in just 24 hours. Have you ever experienced a rapid shift from spiritual fire to coldness? How did encouragement (or the lack of it) play a role?
6How can we develop the 'fragrance of Jesus' so that we become people others want to yoke themselves to for strength?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Audit your social circle: identify and distance yourself from 'Jonadabs' who fuel temptation, and cling to those who love Jesus.
Practice 'intentional observation' this week: look past people's 'Sunday smiles' to discern who might be struggling and need a boost.
Send a specific, timely word of appreciation to a leader or faithful servant in your church who may be pouring out without being poured into.
Develop a daily habit of asking God: 'Lord, who can I encourage today?' and act on the promptings He gives.
When encouraging someone, move beyond flattery by specifically reminding them of a past promise God fulfilled or a truth about His faithfulness.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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