Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

1 Kings 13 (Part 1) Bible Study (A Man of God Confronts Jeroboam) | Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Saturday, March 2, 2024

Scripture References

1 Kings 13:1-102 Chronicles 112 Samuel 8Luke 19:39-40Joshua 24:27Habakkuk 2:11Matthew 27:50-512 Kings 23:16Amos 5:101 Kings 12:28

Sermon Summary

Pastor Daniel Batarseh explores 1 Kings 13, contrasting King Jeroboam’s man-made religion with the bold witness of an unnamed prophet. This study highlights the power of God's Word and the danger of a hardened heart.

Key Takeaways

1Empty religion can build impressive structures and gather crowds, but only true faith produces men and women who are sensitive to God's Spirit.
2Faithfulness to God's Word does not guarantee a favorable response from people; we must seek God's favor over man's approval.
3If we are not tender toward God's Word, He may use the 'bit and bridle' of affliction to redirect us.
4Many people desire 'salvation' from their circumstances or discomfort without desiring salvation from their sins.
5Simple obedience to God's specific commands, even without a full explanation, is a hallmark of a true servant of God.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why is it significant that the 'man of God' had to come from Judah to speak to the North? What does this teach us about the spiritual health of Jeroboam's kingdom?
2Pastor Batarseh noted that Jeroboam wanted his hand restored but not his heart. In what ways do we sometimes ask God for 'healing' while refusing to 'surrender'?
3How does the concept of the 'bit and bridle' (Psalm 32) change your perspective on the trials or afflictions you might be facing?
4The prophet was told not to return by the same way he came. Why do you think God gives instructions that don't come with an explanation, and how do you usually react to them?
5What are the specific traits of a 'man of God' or 'woman of God' that you see in this passage, and which one do you feel most challenged to grow in?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Evaluate your heart for 'spiritual deafness' by checking if you have become bored with or indifferent to the Bible.
Practice 'simple obedience' this week by following a clear biblical principle even if it seems inconvenient or illogical in your current situation.
When facing opposition for your faith, remember that your goal is to win God's favor, not necessarily the favorable response of the person opposing you.
Intercede for those in rebellion against God, demonstrating mercy even while maintaining a clear separation from their sinful practices.
Study Psalm 119 to cultivate a deeper love and desperation for the Word of God as your primary guide.

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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