Introduction and Prayer

• The speaker opens with a prayer thanking God for His patience and longsuffering.
• A request is made for God’s presence so that everyone may hear His voice and believe in salvation through Jesus Christ.
• The theme introduced: Practical Sanctification and Practical Faith — spiritual truths unlocked by faith.

Biblical Context: Moses and God’s Presence

• Narrative of Moses leading Israel from Egypt, facing obstacles like the Red Sea, desert wanderings, and Mount Sinai.
• Exodus 33:11 — God spoke to Moses face to face, like a friend.
• Moses expresses doubt about leading the people without God’s clear guidance and asks:
  • “Who will send me?”
  • “Show me your way.”
  • “Show me your glory.”

God’s Response to Moses

• Exodus 33:14 — God promises His presence will go with Moses, giving him rest.
• Exodus 33:15 — Moses insists that if God’s presence does not go with them, they should not proceed.
• Exodus 33:18-23 — Moses asks to see God’s glory; God proclaims His name (merciful, gracious, long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth) but says no one can see His face and live.
• God shields Moses so he sees only His “back” or passing glory, not His direct face.

Significance of God’s Presence and Sanctuary

• The sanctuary (Tabernacle) represents God’s presence among His people.
• The Ark of the Covenant symbolizes God’s throne and glory dwelling among Israel.
• The principle: God’s presence guides and sanctifies His people.
• No sinful being can dwell in God’s presence without being destroyed.

Jesus Christ as the Fulfillment of God’s Presence

• God became flesh in Jesus Christ (John 1:14), dwelling among humanity as the ultimate sanctuary.
• Jesus embodies God’s glory, grace, and truth.
• Christ’s incarnation allows us to have God’s presence within us.
• The New Testament affirms Jesus’ divinity and humanity, countering early heresies denying Christ’s incarnation.

Challenges Facing the Church Today

• Some deny Christ’s divinity or the necessity of obedience to God’s law.
• 2 John 1:7-11 warns against deceivers who deny Jesus Christ came in the flesh.
• Emphasis on keeping commandments and abiding in Christ’s doctrine as essential for salvation.

Sanctification and Practical Faith

• Sanctification means being made holy, purified, and prepared for Christ’s return (John 17:17-19).
• It involves a transformation of character to be like Christ (Ephesians 4:13).
• Faith is not just belief but active trust that leads to obedience and character change.
• The goal is to be found blameless and faultless at Christ’s coming (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).

The Binary Outcome of Salvation

• At Christ’s return, two outcomes exist:
  • Salvation and glorification for those sanctified and obedient.
  • Punishment for those who persist in sin (2 Thessalonians 1:9-12).
• The journey requires full surrender to God’s will and grace.

Final Exhortation

• Like Moses, believers must seek God’s presence daily in prayer and relationship.
• The call is to fully surrender to Christ, embracing His sanctifying power.
• The narrow path of obedience must be chosen despite worldly temptations.
• The speaker closes with a prayer for hearts to be melted by the glory of Christ, leading to complete devotion.

Key Takeaways

• God’s presence is essential for guidance, rest, and sanctification.
• Jesus is God’s presence made flesh, dwelling among us and enabling us to live holy lives.
• Sanctification is a practical, ongoing process empowered by faith in Christ.
• Obedience and faith are inseparable; true faith results in godly character.
• The church today faces dangers from false teachings denying Christ’s incarnation or law obedience.
• Believers are called to unity in faith, spiritual maturity, and readiness for Christ’s return.

Relevant Scripture References

This message emphasizes the vital importance of knowing God’s presence personally, living a life sanctified by faith, and standing firm against deception as we await the second coming of Jesus Christ.