All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 1. God’s word is __________________ and __________________. • Historically __________________ • __________________ and sourced in God 2. God’s word __________________ and __________________. • Reveals __________________ • Refines Christ-like __________________ 3. Engage God’s word with recurring __________________ and __________________. Welcoming God’s Word into Your Heart | Zac Bush | February 21, 2021February 21, 2021 Lent Services We invite you to join us for weekly online Lent services. These services center around the theme “ready for change” and feature worship, prayer, and teaching. Wednesdays, February 24–March 24 at 6:00pm on Facebook Live. Let’s Grow Let’s Grow is a class taught by Westwood pastors. You will learn tangible ways to grow in your faith, experience hands on exercises, and learn to share your story. Mondays, March 1 and 8, 7:00–8:30pm over Zoom. Register online. Bible Reading Plan Reading the Bible every day is a great way to grow in your faith. After you read, take time to journal or reflect on these questions: What does it say? What does it mean? How can I live this out today? On our website, under Publications, you can find online resources for reading through the Bible in one year: westwoodcc.org/publications Want to go deeper? Check out the attached discussion questions to engage more with the sermon. Closer Series Welcoming God’s Word into Your Heart February 21, 2021 What was your first experience with the Bible? Who introduced the Bible to you? Are there questions that you have about the authenticity or reliability of scripture? How have you reconciled them with your faith? What is one thing you learned about the Bible from this week’s sermon? How does this impact your faith journey? Pastor Zac mentioned “dual authorship”. What does this mean, and how does it impact your approach to reading the Bible? What can this teach us about how God uses people to accomplish things? Pastor Zac talked about two things scripture does; reveals Christ, and refines character. Can you think of any examples from the Old Testament where Christ is revealed? Character refinement, otherwise known as sanctification, is the process in which we partner with the Holy Spirit as we are shaped into Christ’s likeness. In your life, are there any examples of scripture refining your character? How so? What are some steps you can take to make spending time in God’s word more of a rhythm? Are there things in your life that make finding that rhythm difficult? As we reflect on and discuss the sermon this week on God’s word, let’s practice what Pastor Joel taught last week in praying with dependence. When tempted in the desert, Jesus taught that God’s word is nourishing for life (Matthew 4:4). Consider the areas of your life that are overwhelming or difficult, and ask God to develop a greater dependence on his word this week. Spend time engaging with the Prayer Guide this week, and let God’s word dwell in your heart. Next >