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Sermon study guide for next-level growth.

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Sermon Overview

This past Sunday, we began our new summer series, Psalms of the Summer, and explored Psalm 84, also known as the "Song of Pilgrimage." We delved into the beauty and significance of dwelling in God's presence, actively seeking Him, and finding true satisfaction in Him alone. The psalm reminds us that our entire Christian life is a spiritual pilgrimage, with Jesus as our ultimate destination and companion on the journey. We examined how this ancient text points us to Christ and the New Covenant, emphasizing that God's presence is no longer confined to a physical temple but dwells within believers through the Holy Spirit.

Sermon Series: 
Psalms of the Summer
The Song of Pilgrimage
Key Passage:  Psalm 84

Key Takeaways

  1. The Psalms express a wide variety of emotions and experiences, directing us in worship despite our feelings.
  2. Psalm 84 focuses on the blessing of dwelling in, seeking, and being satisfied in God's presence.
  3. True blessing (happiness, joy, contentment) is found only in God's presence.
  4. Our spiritual journey is a lifelong pilgrimage of following Christ.
  5. Jesus made it possible for us to experience God's presence anywhere, not just in a physical temple.

Discussion Questions

  1. Pastor Nick mentions that the Psalms are where he turns when in distress or needing a reminder of God's faithfulness. What passages or books of the Bible do you turn to in difficult times? Why?
  2. Reflect on verse 2: "My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God." How would you describe your current longing for God's presence?
  3. Pastor Nick talks about sparrows finding worth and swallows finding rest in God's presence. Which of these birds do you relate to more in your current spiritual state? Why?
  4. How has your understanding of "pilgrimage" in the Christian life changed after hearing this sermon?
  5. Pastor Nick mentions that it's easy to focus on external factors (like church buildings) rather than the spiritual aspect of worship. How can we ensure we're seeking God's presence rather than just a religious experience?
  6. Verse 10 states, "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." Share a time when you experienced the profound satisfaction of being in God's presence.
  7. How does Jesus' role as the ultimate sacrifice and the new "temple" change our approach to seeking God's presence?

Practical Applications

  1. Set aside time this week for a personal "pilgrimage" - a dedicated time to seek God's presence through prayer, worship, or studying Scripture.
  2. Reflect on any "idols" in your life that might be competing with your satisfaction in God alone. Write them down and pray for God's help in reorienting your heart.
  3. Look for opportunities to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" (Hebrews 10:24) within your small group or church community this week.
  4. If you've been relying heavily on online church, consider making the effort to attend in-person services to experience the gathered presence of God's people.

Closing Prayer

Thank God for His presence in our lives and ask for His help in maintaining a heart of pilgrimage, always seeking and finding satisfaction in Him alone.