HIS TRUTH ENDURE TO ALL GENERATIONS Psalm 100.5

ANNOUNCEMENTS  Bible Studies – regular schedule  This Evening– Ben Miller  Aug 16 – Our annual Corn Roast and fireworks at the Pastor’s  389, 369, 303

"DOES GOD SPEAK TODAY?"  We're wired by God our Creator to need regular time where we hear no voice but His.  God speaking audibly is the exception, not the rule.  Normally and Primarily He speaks through the Holy Scriptures.

“HOW DOES GOD SPEAK TODAY?"  We know that God still “speaks” to people today in several ways.  How? opportunities, open or closed doors, provision, even a burden or loss  God allows events to occur in our lives to direct us, change us, and help us to grow spiritually.

…BY MY SPIRIT, SAYS THE LORD  Someone who would teach and guide all those who believe in Him (John 14:26;16:7).John 14:2616:7

THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS MANY FUNCTIONS:  He distributes spiritual gifts according to His will (1 Cor 12:7–11),1 Cor 12:7–11  comforts and teaches believers (John 14:16, 26),John 14:16, 26  remains as a seal of promise upon our hearts until the day of Jesus’ return (Eph 1:13;4:30).Eph 1:134:30  leads us in the way we should go and revealing God’s truth (Luke 12:12;1 Cor 2:6–10).Luke 12:121 Cor 2:6–10

HOW DO WE DISCERN BETWEEN OUR OWN THOUGHTS AND HIS LEADING?  BE familiar with God’s Word.  He’s the Author.  The Bible is the ultimate source of wisdom about how we should live (2 Tim 3:16-17), and  Believers must search the Scriptures, meditate on them, and commit them to memory (Ps 119).

 Knowledge of God’s Word can help us to discern whether or not our desires come from the Holy Spirit of from our own initiative.  We must test our inner voice against Scripture—the Holy Spirit will never prod us to do anything contrary to God’s Word. 1 John 4.1  If an idea conflicts with the Bible, then it is not from the Holy Spirit and should be ignored.

 3 Tests:  Check every message against the policy and procedure manual  Get to know His voice  Understand His overall purpose

SO WHAT DOES HE SAY?  To Abraham – “Trust Me – here’s what I’m going to do” Gen 12  To the nation of Israel – “Follow Me – This is the way to blessing”Warnings…Promises of Restoration… Isa 41  Through Jesus and ApostlesInvitation & Instruction Mt 11.28Acts 1.82 Tim

WHAT DOES HE SAY NOW?  Summary Statements:Faith, Hope, Love  Faith Heb 11.6  ObedienceGrowth 2 Pet 3.18Study 2 Tm 2.15  Hope 2 Tim  Confidence Purpose Victory 1 Cor 2.9  Love Mt ; Jn  Worship Evidence 1 Cor 13; 1 Jn 4.7, 20