Scripture References: Exodus 33:15-16; Exodus 40:34-38; John 1:14; James 4:6; Psalm 84:10
Intro: Welcome. Speaker Mike concludes the "Redemption" series from Exodus. We've journeyed through Israel's deliverance and renewal, acknowledging our own brokenness and need for God. Today, we explore the ultimate goal of redemption: not just reaching a destination, but dwelling in God's presence. Is Jesus Himself our true Promised Land?
Key Points:
- Redemption Recap: God delivers us from slavery (sin/shame), pays the price, and renews us into His people, walking in His presence. Israel is out of Egypt, but Egypt (idolatry) is still in their hearts.
- Exodus Goal: Not Place, But Presence: The book of Exodus doesn't end with Israel entering Canaan. It ends with them building the Tabernacle and God's glorious presence filling it (Ex 40). They shifted from building Pharaoh's kingdom (slavery) to building God's dwelling place (freedom/purpose). Key Insight: Redemption's prize is God's Presence with His people.
- The Critical Question: Is Jesus your Promised Land? Or is He just a means to get something else (a better life, healing, marriage, job, freedom from addiction)?
- The Crisis (Ex 33): After the golden calf incident, God instructs Israel to go to the Promised Land without His direct, manifest Presence accompanying them (lest His holiness consume them). He offers an angel guide instead.
- Israel's Response: Devastation: They mourn deeply. Why? They still get the land! Because they understood God's Presence was everything – their distinction, their guide, their protector, their provider.
- Moses' Response (Ex 33:15-16): "If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here." Moses values God Himself more than God's gifts (the land). God's presence defines their identity and purpose.
- Understanding God's Presence: It's more than His omnipresence (being everywhere). It's His special, manifested presence – where His glory is encountered, known, and felt. This is what Moses couldn't live without.
- Positioning for His Presence: We don't control God's manifest presence ("turn on the faucet"), but we can position ourselves under it.
- Repel: Pride ("I got this," relying on knowledge alone) and Complacency (spiritual laziness, apathy, unpreparedness - Parable of Ten Virgins).
- Attract: Humility (confessing need, dependence - "grace to the humble") and Passionate Worship (fervently expressing His worth with our whole being – singing, clapping, dancing like David, lifting hands).
- Worship is Response: Passionate worship isn't reserved for certain personalities; it's a response to the astounding truth that Jesus defeated death (Easter!) and secured God's presence dwelling in us.
Conclusion: The ultimate goal of redemption is God dwelling with His people. His Presence is the true Promised Land, more valuable than any earthly blessing or destination. Like Moses, may our hearts cry out, "If Your presence doesn't go with us, we don't want to go!" Let's cultivate humility and passionate worship, positioning ourselves to encounter Him. Jesus Himself is our everything.
Call to Action: Examine your heart: Is Jesus truly your ultimate desire, your Promised Land? Repent of any pride or complacency hindering your pursuit of His presence. Respond to His greatness today with humility and passionate worship. Ask Him to make His presence your greatest longing and satisfaction.
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