Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Disability & The Providence of God | John 9:1-7 | Pastor Mark Griffin

Pastor Mark Griffin|Sunday, May 5, 2024

Scripture References

John 9:1-7Exodus 14:21Job 38:34Luke 13:16Job 1:6Job 2:3-6Matthew 15:29Exodus 4:10James 4:13Genesis 50:20Genesis 45:7Romans 8:282 Corinthians 12:9Romans 8:38-39

Sermon Summary

Pastor Mark Griffin explores the theology of disability through John 9, arguing that it is not a punishment for sin but a platform for God's glory. The sermon emphasizes God's absolute providence as a source of unshakable hope for those facing physical and mental challenges.

Key Takeaways

1Disability is not a punishment for specific personal sins but a platform for God's glory and works to be displayed.
2God's sovereignty is absolute, extending over nature, spiritual enemies, and biological processes like DNA and chromosomes.
3The ultimate purpose of suffering for a believer is to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ for their eternal good.
4God's providence should be viewed as a comforting 'life preserver' to cling to rather than a harsh 'bludgeon' of explanation.
5Christ is personally present with the suffering, actively seeking out those whom society often overlooks or ignores.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1How does the definition of 'providence' provided in the sermon change how you view your current difficult circumstances?
2The disciples assumed the man's blindness was due to sin. What are some common 'false assumptions' we make about suffering today?
3In Exodus 4:11, God claims responsibility for making the mute, deaf, and blind. How does this truth challenge or comfort you?
4How can we distinguish between the 'evil' intended by people or Satan and the 'good' intended by God in the same event?
5Pastor Griffin called providence a 'life preserver.' Can you share a time when God’s sovereignty was the only thing keeping you afloat?
6In what practical ways can our small group or church better reflect Jesus' 'presence' toward those with disabilities?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Shift your perspective on personal trials by asking 'How can God's works be displayed here?' instead of 'Why is God punishing me?'
Follow Jesus' example by actively seeking out and engaging with people with disabilities in your community and church.
Memorize Romans 8:28-30 to anchor your soul in the truth that God is working all things toward your sanctification and glorification.
Support and pray for caregivers of the disabled, recognizing that God has specifically entrusted them with the care of vulnerable individuals.

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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