On Sunday, March 20, 2022, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’ message is “The World’s Looming Appointment” from our sermon series “Remember, Judgment is Coming”. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.
1. Bruce reflected on a time early in his life growing up in the 50s and 60s when there were widespread fears of the world ending due to atomic warfare. Can you remember a time or times in your life when you also found yourself concerned that something could well happen to bring a sudden end to this world? If so, share some about the when, the what, and the why.
2. Peter in chapter 3 is addressing a coming future era when God’s wrath is to be poured out on this world. Bruce shared a definition of God’s wrath. As best as you can recall—how should we describe God’s wrath? Bruce also identified three aspects of God’s wrath in Scripture. List them out and identify a bible passage that describes that aspect.
3. In verse 8 Peter explains that God has a more advanced view of time than we do as humans. If you were speaking with a brand-new believer, how would you explain the differences?
4. Bruce shared the quote, God is never in a hurry, but he’s also never late. How does that idea bring us encouragement and patience in the ups and downs of our everyday life?
5. Why hasn’t God pulled down the curtain on human history as He has promised to do?
Expand on what Peter says in verse 9. What other Bible verses support what Peter is saying in verse 9?
6. Bruce shared some of the story of Charles Spurgeon’s conversion at 15 while listening to a severely underqualified speaker. What does that story tell us about what is most important in communicating the gospel message with others?
7. Review some of the lyrics (below) that we sang on Sunday:
(Death was arrested)
Released from my chains, I’m a prisoner no more
My shame as a ransom He faithfully bore
He canceled my debt and He called me His friend
Take some time in prayer to worship and thank the Living God for loving us so and for extending the free gift of salvation that we so clearly could never afford.