Anchor Verses:

Exodus 32 |  Mark 6 | Acts 8 | Genesis 25:19-34

Focus Statement:

Choosing true encounters with God over superficial entertainment.

Introduction

  • “Entertain” – Means to maintain attention, not just to amuse (Exodus 32:1-6).

  • The Israelites, after being freed by God, preferred a tangible, visible god over waiting for the invisible God.

  • Genesis 25:19-34: Esau gives up his birthright for immediate satisfaction, illustrating the consequences of impatience and entitlement.

Add A Note

Here We Are Now, Entertain Us

  • Entitlement in Worship: We often approach worship and church with an attitude of entitlement—expecting God to cater to our needs.

  • The Israelites in Exodus 32: They wanted a god they could control, seeking pleasure over true communion.

  • Application: Have we traded worship for entertainment, desiring comfort and control over authentic encounters with God?

Add A Note

A Kingdom of Priests

  • The Jesus Movement: Billy Graham’s era sparked a movement of conversions, but there’s a need for deeper discipleship.

  • Revelation 5:9-10: God’s plan for a kingdom of priests is not just about initial conversions but about equipping believers for spiritual maturity.

  • Matthew 4:3-5: The need for depth in spiritual growth – shallow roots won’t endure.

  • Application: We must not only introduce people to Jesus, but also teach them to walk in deeper relationship with Him.

Add A Note

Come to the Temple with an Offering, Not Entitlement

  • Matthew 12:38-40: The Pharisees demanded signs, but Jesus pointed to the deeper need for a genuine relationship.

  • Church as Encounter: Church should not be about entertainment; worship and spiritual growth should come from a heart that seeks God, not just from enjoying music or performance.

  • Luke 19:39-40: Creation worships God—our worship is a natural response to His greatness.

  • Application: Worship isn’t about being entertained; it’s about a heartfelt response to God’s goodness. Let’s seek true encounter with Him, not entertainment.

Add A Note

Sermon Questions

  • Where in your spiritual life have you traded communion with God for control, comfort, or entertainment? Reflect on moments when impatience or entitlement led you to seek a “golden calf” rather than wait on the Lord. How can you re-center your heart to pursue God’s presence rather than a pleasing experience?
  • Are you growing into the role of a priest in God’s kingdom, or have you settled into spiritual infancy? Consider whether your faith has deep roots or if it’s been shallow and easily scorched by life’s pressures. What disciplines or community rhythms can help you grow from spiritual milk to solid food?
  • When you come to worship, do you come with an offering or with expectations? Search your motives: do you seek to encounter God, or to be impressed or entertained? How might your worship and weekly habits change if your heart was postured for genuine offering rather than consumption?

Add A Note

Email my notes