Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Numbers 13/14 Bible Study (Spies Sent/People Rebel/Moses Intercedes/Defeat) | Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Scripture References

Numbers 13Numbers 14Deuteronomy 1:21-22Ezekiel 20:6Exodus 3:81 Thessalonians 5:16-18Romans 6:14Isaiah 40:22Joshua 2:10Hebrews 3:19

Sermon Summary

This study of Numbers 13 and 14 explores how the Israelites' lack of faith led to a forty-year delay in entering the Promised Land. It highlights the contrast between the fearful majority and the faithful minority, Joshua and Caleb.

Key Takeaways

1Faith is not ignoring facts, but choosing to interpret facts through God's perspective rather than our own senses.
2The majority opinion is often wrong; spiritual maturity requires the courage to stand with God's Word even when standing alone.
3Accusing God of having bad intentions for your life is a serious assault on His character that leads to spiritual stagnation.
4Prayers focused on God's reputation and glory are the most powerful and effective forms of intercession.
5Unbelief is the primary barrier that prevents believers from entering into the fullness of God's spiritual blessings.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1In Numbers 13, why did God command the spies to go if it was originally the people's idea? What does this teach us about how God handles our stubborn desires?
2Moses changed Hoshea's name to Joshua. How does this name change serve as a reminder of the Gospel in our daily walk?
3The Israelites saw themselves as grasshoppers. In what areas of your life do you feel like a 'grasshopper' compared to your circumstances? How does Isaiah 40:22 change that view?
4The people accused God of bringing them out to the wilderness to die. Why is it so dangerous to doubt God's good intentions for us, even in difficult seasons?
5Moses turned down a chance to become a 'greater nation' to protect God's reputation. How can we check our own motives in prayer to ensure they are for God's glory?
6What is the difference between 'godly sorrow' and the 'worldly sorrow' the Israelites showed when they tried to attack the land after being told they were disqualified?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Identify a 'giant' or obstacle in your life and consciously choose to view it from God's perspective (Isaiah 40:22) rather than your own.
Audit your speech for complaining; ask yourself if your complaints are actually subtle accusations against God's faithfulness.
Practice 'following fully' by identifying one area of your life where you have been partially obedient and committing to total surrender.
When facing a difficult decision, prioritize God's reputation over your own comfort or success.
Refuse to be swayed by the 'majority report' of culture or fear, and instead anchor your confidence in God's specific promises.

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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