CHAPEL ROCK
Today we continue our series called, “The Proximity Effect”, which focuses on what many consider Jesus’ favorite word, ‘come.’ Our special guest speaker, Dr. Mark Scott, is the preaching minister at Park Plaza Christian Church in Joplin, Missouri. Dr. Scott recently retired from over 30 years on the staff at Ozark Christian College. If you are somewhat new to Chapel Rock, he is the father of our Lead Pastor, Casey Scott! Dr. Scott’s message is entitled, “The Power of Proximity.”
Communion
Chapel Rock practices an 'open communion' meaning that if you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, then you are welcome to participate in the communion service. The elder/staff member giving the devotion will provide instructions.
Matthew 26:26-29 NIV
Chapel Rock’s Vision:
To See the Whole Community
Whole in Christ
Dr. Mark Scott
Preaching Minister
Park Plaza Christian Church
Series: The Proximity Effect
Sermon: The Power of Proximity
> Matthew 14:22-33
Today’s Big Idea
When faith overcomes fear the impossible becomes possible.
Introduction
For the most part, ‘come’, is a warm word. It is the word of invitation. Turn in your Bibles or devices to our text this morning, Matthew 14:22-33. In this text we’ll carve out two parts from our Big Idea.
GOD COMES TO US IN OUR FEARS
The word ‘fear’ occurs three times in our text.
“Every man who knocks on the door of a brothel is really looking for God.”
~ G.K. Chesterton
What are your fears? What seems impossible to you? For the disciples it was this real extended storm. And in our story Jesus comes to them in their fears. “Take heart” (be of good cheer or of good courage). “Do not be afraid” (Stop being afraid).
In this proximity discussion we want to encourage you to get close to Jesus. But the story of the gospel is that he came to get close to you.
WE COME TO GOD IN OUR FAITH
Matthew is the only Gospel to tell Peter’s story. What did Peter trust? The word of the living God! But Peter walked on the water. Did he faulter in that faith? Yes, he did. He saw the wind instead of concentrating on the one whose identity was wind.
Jesus said that Peter had little faith. What did the others have? Zero!
John Ortberg wrote a book about this text entitled, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get Out of the Boat.” He gives nine lessons for water walkers. Here are four of them:
1) Water-Walkers Discern Between Faith and Foolishness.
2) Water-Walkers Get out of the Boat.
3) Water-Walkers Accept Fear as the Price of Growth.
4) Water-Walking Brings a Deeper Connection with God.
Conclusion
When faith overcomes fear the impossible becomes possible — and it happens best by coming close to Jesus.
Read Ahead for Next Week
The Pull of a Great Party | Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 14:22-33 NIV