Ottawa Church of Christ Sermon Podcast Ottawa Church of Christ Sermon Podcast

Just as the intricate design of the Tabernacle followed a pattern so the people could experience God in worship, Jesus’ incarnation was intricately designed so we could experience the presence of God in our lives and the church. This Sunday, we’ll examine the state of our tabernacles and the difference God’s presence should make.

Check you a Thread podcast that talks about the Tabernacle. The podcast journeys through the Tabernacle’s divine architecture, uncovering its spiritual messages and its impact on the Israelites’ relationship with God. Dr. David Pocta offers expert insights into the complex design and the Tabernacle’s function as a dwelling place for the divine. We examine the holy encampment’s layout, the symbolic positioning of the 12 tribes, and the priestly duties that brought the camp to life. A camp experience helps give a tangible feel to the spiritual symbolism of the Tabernacle, including the tearing of the veil at Jesus’ death, symbolizing open access to the divine.

We all have things that we rely on or look to in our lives. Often we don’t give these strong influences much thought. As Israel makes their escape in Exodus they are given a physical reminder of the presence of God in the form of a pillar of cloud and fire. Day and night, God was with them, leading their steps, and protecting them powerfully. What are you leaning on? How do you know where God is leading you? Is the presence of God a pillar in your life?

Watch the Thread series podcast on God’s Presence with Dr. Bernard McGinn to explore the link between the academic study of God’s presence and its practical application in daily life. As Hannah DeSouza and Dr. David Pocta engage with Dr. McGinn’s extensive knowledge, they explore the connections between mysticism, divine presence, and their manifestations in scripture and daily life.

Dr. McGinn’s scholarly insights, personal anecdotes, and co-host Hannah’s reflections on her recent studies reveal that mysticism is an accessible treasure for all, urging us to embrace a life imbued with sacred awareness. The discussion spans from historical theophanies to modern-day practices that seek to bridge the gap between humanity and the divine. Topics Discussed:





* –Dr. Bernard McGinn’s academic background and focus on the history of mysticism and spirituality

* –Dr. McGinn’s Presence of God series The resurgence of interest in mysticism among contemporary scholars and students

* –Mysticism as a deeper and more direct pursuit of experiencing God, rooted in the Christian tradition

* –The role of mystics in articulating and teaching their profound experiences of divine intimacy

* –Scriptural foundations of mysticism, highlighting texts like the Psalms and the Song of Songs

* –The significance of theophanies, such as the pillar of cloud and fire, in the Exodus narrative

* –The transition from temporary to permanent symbols of God’s presence, from the Tabernacle to the New Testament’s interpretation of Jesus as the temple

* –Practical ways to cultivate awareness of God’s presence in daily life, as demonstrated by Brother Lawrence and Thomas Kelly

* –The historical perspective of God manifesting in physical forms, culminating with the incarnation of Jesus Christ

* –The accessibility of mysticism for individuals from all walks of life

They say opportunities come once. However, in Christ, we have been gifted with a lifetime of opportunities that if grasped, help us find our place in God’s story. We will look at David who grasped his opportunities and subsequently was described as one who fulfilled God’s purpose for his life. We will look to see what we can learn from David’s life to help us find our place in God’s story.

We all need to grow in our understanding of God’s process of formation. We want growth to be easy. But that’s not the reality we see in any part of creation, including our own souls. When God wants to grow us (and he does!), he takes us into the wilderness to be formed into people who can accomplish his will. This message should encourage us to be more open to the way that God works as we join Israel in their wilderness sojourn.

“I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them, and they were struck down in the wilderness.” – 1 Corinthians 10:1-5

In the Great Commission we are tasked with making disciples and baptizing them. The Exodus powerfully shows that this has always been God’s plan. But just as there is much more to the Exodus story than moving through the parted waters, there is much more to the Great Commission. The freedom that comes from piercing the waters of baptism should be celebrated as the Spirit-enabled beginning of an incredible journey marked by learning to obey all that Jesus taught. As leaders, so much of our work must be devoted to the wandering wilderness life that follows baptism for each of our congregants. 

Almost immediately after Moses and Miriam’s songs ended and the timbrels were put away, the complaining began. God’s people needed food, water, and shelter. The saga that unfolds in the remainder of the Torah shows us the importance of taking care of God’s flock. Moses’ masterclass on leadership is a real and honest look at what it means to be a spiritual leader.

This is a great moment to step back and assess the resources we have devoted to helping people take their next steps after baptism or membership in our ministries.

What kinds of Bible studies do you have available for new Christians?

What events or activities do you have on the calendar to integrate and acclimate new people to the fellowship?

What people have been tasked with taking care of those who’ve just crossed the sea? How is your church structured to begin the process of teaching to “obey everything?”

This sermon is available in French – Ce sermon est disponible en français