Scripture References: Song of Songs 2:8 - 4:16; Matthew 9:37-38; Matthew 28:18-20; John 4:34-38; 2 Timothy 1:6-7; 1 John 4:20-21
Intro: Welcome. Speaker Glenn Power continues the series on Song of Songs, moving from Season 3 (Rest & Romance) into Season 4 (Maturity & Mission). After establishing intimacy and security in God's love, the Bridegroom (Jesus) calls the Bride (us) out from comfortable fellowship into active partnership with Him in His purposes. This call is motivated by love and requires faith.
Key Points:
- Beyond the Prayer Closet: Intimacy with God isn't the endpoint but the foundation for mission. We can't stay hidden; Jesus calls us to join Him. Loving God compels loving others (1 John 4:20-21). Obedience flows from relationship, not just awareness of need.
- Jesus the Leaping Stag (Song 2:8-9): The Bride sees a new aspect of Jesus: energetic, joyful, leaping over mountain obstacles. He's the Lord of the Harvest (Mt 9:38), overcoming all barriers, possessing all authority (Mt 28:18).
- The Call: "Arise... Come Away" (Song 2:10): Jesus invites her to join Him where He is already working in the world. Mission is partnering with Him, not just going for Him. Ask: "Lord, what are You doing, and how can I join You?"
- Motivations to Go:
- His Abiding Presence (v. 11): "Winter is past." The old life of spiritual deadness is over. His presence brings continuous inner spring, empowering us for mission.
- The Harvest is Ready (v. 12): "Flowers appear... time of singing... voice of the turtledove." Prophetic signs of imminent harvest. Jesus sees fields white for harvest now (John 4:35).
- The Times are Urgent (v. 13): "Fig tree ripens..." Learn the lesson of the fig tree (cf. Mark 13). Recognizing the "signs of the times" (e.g., Israel restored, Gospel nearing completion - Mt 24:14) motivates urgent participation.
- Confidence in Calling (Song 2:14): Jesus affirms her identity ("my dove") and security ("clefts of the rock"). He desires her unique contribution: "Let me see your face" (authentic self) and "hear your voice" (specific gifts). Minister as yourself, using your God-given gifts, not imitating others (cf. David refusing Saul's armor; 2 Tim 1:6-7).
- Warning: The Little Foxes (Song 2:15): Beware small compromises (offense, cutting corners, ungodly influences) that undermine fruitfulness and relationship as you step out.
- Hesitation & Restoration (Song 2:16 - 3:4): The Bride hesitates ("Be like a gazelle... upon the mountains... [without me]"). She loves Jesus but fears the call. Response: Jesus withdraws His manifest presence. Prayer alone can't substitute obedience. But, seeking Him while afraid builds courage. She eventually says "Yes" ("I will rise now...") and seeks help ("watchmen"). His presence returns upon her yieldedness.
- Maturing Surrender (Song 3:5 - 4:16): After yielding, she gains new revelation of Jesus (victorious, protective) and learns obedience is the safest place. Jesus affirms her maturing character (Ch 4). Turning Point: Her focus shifts from receiving His love/pleasure to desiring His pleasure (4:16). She invites all circumstances ("north wind," "south wind") if they spread His fragrance. Total surrender.
Conclusion: The Christian journey matures from receiving God's love to partnering with Him in His mission out of love and obedience. Jesus calls us to rise, join Him in the harvest, minister confidently as ourselves, and guard against compromise. Even when fear causes hesitation, He
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
Please notify us if you find any errors.