"When God Asks a Question: Why Your Answer Matters" | Pastor Bobby Chandler

Introduction and Transition to New Space

Welcoming the Congregation

• The speaker expresses gratitude for attendees in the house of the Lord, emphasizing a sense of community.

• Acknowledges online viewers from around the world, especially those in regions where Christianity is illegal, highlighting their importance and shared faith.

Series Introduction: "Still Growing"

• Introduces a new series titled "Still Growing," focusing on continuous spiritual growth regardless of one's time as a believer.

• Emphasizes that Jesus continually teaches us new lessons, reinforcing that no one has all the answers.

The Life of King Solomon

Wisdom vs. Relationships

• Discusses King Solomon's wisdom granted by God but notes his blindness in personal relationships.

• Highlights that knowing right from wrong is not enough; surrendering to Jesus is essential to avoid wrongdoing.

Idolatry and Compromise

• References 1 Kings 11:4, illustrating how Solomon's heart was turned away from God due to his relationships with foreign wives.

• Encourages self-reflection on personal idols that may lead one away from God, such as work or status.

The Dangers of Small Compromises

Gradual Drift Away from Faith

• Warns that turning away from God happens gradually through small compromises rather than overnight decisions.

• Discusses how justifying small indulgences can open doors for negative influences in one's life.

Solomon's Compromises

• Recaps specific compromises made by Solomon, including marrying many foreign women who worshipped other gods.

• Notes the sheer number of his marriages (700 wives and 300 concubines), questioning the wisdom behind such choices.

The Downfall of Solomon: Lessons on Control and Obedience

The Desire for More

• The speaker discusses the problem of wanting more than what is sufficient, exemplified by Solomon's desire to marry multiple princesses to form treaties for peace.

• A critical insight is that every downfall begins when "enough stops being enough," leading to pride, lust, and selfishness as one becomes ungrateful for what they have.

• Solomon's temptation stemmed from his wisdom but also from opening doors to desires that ultimately led to his downfall.

Worship Practices and Cultural Influence

• Despite worshiping Yahweh, Solomon adopted pagan rituals by sacrificing in high places, which were forbidden by the law of Moses.

• The speaker emphasizes that even with good intentions, adopting customs contrary to God's commands can lead one astray; Solomon believed he was not engaging in idol worship despite breaking commandments.

Consequences of Disobedience

• Good intentions do not justify disobedience; the speaker stresses that consequences follow actions regardless of intent.

• Citing 1st Samuel 15:22-23, the importance of obedience over sacrifice is highlighted. Rebellion against God equates to witchcraft and stubbornness resembles idol worship.

The Danger of Stubbornness

• Stubbornness against God's will leads individuals to prioritize their own ways over divine guidance, effectively becoming their own idols.

• Proverbs 14:12 warns that paths appearing right may lead to death—relationships or hope can suffer due to decisions made with good intentions but against God's will.

Boundaries and Deception

• The speaker discusses how societal views misinterpret God's boundaries as restrictions on fun rather than protective measures for well-being.

• An example illustrates how relentless work for family can lead to neglecting relationships at home; this reflects a deceptive mindset where control overshadows rest and connection.

Sabbath and Rest: A Biblical Perspective

The Importance of Sabbath

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of taking a Sabbath, dedicating Fridays to family without church-related interruptions.

• Highlights that one cannot effectively serve in ministry if their home life is chaotic; rest is essential for clarity and focus.

Trusting God with Our Burdens

• References Psalms 127, stating that unless the Lord builds a house, efforts are futile; God's protection is paramount.

• Emphasizes that God provides rest to His loved ones, contrasting this with the idea that demons do not rest.

The Dangers of Unforgiveness

• Discusses how failing to rest can lead to resentment towards things once loved; stresses the need for forgiveness.

• Points out that holding onto grudges can create barriers in relationships and hinder personal growth.

Biblical Mandate for Forgiveness

• Cites Matthew 6:14-15, stressing that forgiveness from God is contingent upon our willingness to forgive others.

• Clarifies that forgiveness does not condone bad behavior but involves entrusting pain and anger to God.

God's Questions vs. Commands

• Introduces the concept that sometimes God asks questions instead of giving commands to reveal deeper truths about ourselves.

• Suggests that religious checklists may mask true spiritual health; genuine love for others must accompany outward actions.

Solomon's Sacrifices and God's Question

Solomon's Offerings at Gibeon

• Solomon offered sacrifices and burned incense at local high places, with the most significant being at Gibeon where the tabernacle was located. He sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings there.

• The value of Solomon's offerings is substantial; if he sacrificed sheep, it would equate to $60,000 to $250,000. If bulls were offered, the amount could range from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. This indicates a significant act of devotion beyond mere tithing.

• Solomon’s actions are highlighted as commendable since other kings did not perform such grand offerings at the designated place of worship (the tabernacle). His heart was in the right place when making these sacrifices.

God's Appearance and Question

• That night after his sacrifices, God appeared to Solomon in a dream and asked him what he desired: "What do you want? Ask and I will give it to you." This moment is pivotal as it reveals God's engagement with Solomon following his sincere offering.

• The question posed by God is unique in biblical context; it's noted that this specific inquiry has not been made to anyone else in scripture before this instance with Solomon. It serves as a test of character and intention for Solomon who felt unqualified for leadership due to his youth (around 18 years old).

The Significance of Desires

• The essence of what one asks for can reveal their true values and intentions; thus, God’s question aimed to expose what was deep within Solomon’s heart rather than seeking information He already knew. This reflects on how our desires can indicate our priorities in life.

• A parallel is drawn between this event and the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3, where God also asked questions that revealed deeper truths about their situation—highlighting that divine inquiries often serve a purpose beyond mere curiosity but aim for self-revelation among individuals.

Questions as Revelations

• In Genesis 3:8-13, God asks Adam where he is hiding after sinning—a rhetorical question indicating God's awareness while prompting Adam to confront his own actions and feelings of shame regarding nakedness which had previously not troubled them. This illustrates how questions can lead individuals toward self-reflection about their choices or circumstances.

• The narrative emphasizes that parents often ask children questions they already know answers to encourage honesty or self-awareness—mirroring God's approach with humanity throughout scripture as seen through both Adam's response and later interactions with others like Eve during their fall into sin.

Understanding God's Questions: A Path to Intimacy and Truth

The Nature of God's Questions

• The speaker illustrates a scenario with a child caught in mischief, drawing parallels to how God asks questions to reveal truth. This reflects the human tendency to deny wrongdoing.

• The first question God posed was "Where are you?" This is not about physical location but rather spiritual closeness, indicating that sin creates distance from God.

• Sin does not hide us from God's sight but separates us from His presence. When we succumb to temptation, feelings of unworthiness can lead us to hide from God.

• The essence of God's inquiry is about trust and faith. He seeks intimacy that may be lost due to sin, prompting self-reflection on where one stands spiritually.

• The second question, "Who told you you were naked?" shifts focus from physical appearance to the influence of external voices that distort our perception of ourselves and our relationship with God.

Voices That Shape Our Identity

• God’s inquiry reveals the importance of discerning whose voice we listen to. It challenges individuals to identify negative influences that lead them away from truth.

• Shame has a powerful voice; it often stems from others' opinions and can become internalized, leading individuals to speak negatively about themselves.

• Common messages associated with shame include feelings of inadequacy or failure. These thoughts can evolve into self-deprecating beliefs if not addressed properly.

• God’s question serves as an invitation for healing; He encourages individuals to confront these harmful narratives by asking who instilled such beliefs in them.

• Ultimately, the message emphasizes that one's identity should be rooted in Jesus rather than societal expectations or shameful voices.

Opportunities for Repentance and Grace

• Another critical question posed by God was regarding their actions: "Have you eaten from the tree? What have you done?" This represents an opportunity for confession and repentance rather than blame-shifting.

• Adam blamed Eve while Eve blamed the serpent, highlighting a common human tendency towards deflection instead of taking responsibility for one's actions.

• Notably, God only questioned Adam and Eve—not the serpent—indicating His desire for relationship and intimacy with those who are willing to engage honestly with Him.

Hearing God's Voice Through Surrender

• Reflecting on Solomon's story prompts introspection about whether one's answers would please God or merely serve personal desires.

• The speaker notes that divine communication often occurs through surrender rather than convenience; comfort zones can hinder clarity in hearing God's call.

• Moving out of comfort requires faith; trusting in God's goodness leads believers toward greater blessings beyond what they currently possess.

God Meets Us in Surrender

The Importance of Surrender

• God’s voice becomes clearer as our comfort decreases; Solomon did not hear God in comfortable places but when he traveled to Gibeon, where he surrendered.

• True encounters with God happen in surrender, not when we seek convenience or customize Christianity to fit our needs.

• The gospel can be offensive; pleasing people is secondary to pleasing God and freeing them from spiritual control.

Obedience and Comfort

• Many desire guidance from God without committing to obedience; true direction often requires sacrifice and discomfort.

• Miracles occur when we step out of our comfort zones, especially during challenging times.

Humility as a Weapon

• James 4:8 emphasizes humility before God as a means to resist the devil; pride opens doors for spiritual attacks.

• 2 Chronicles 7:14 highlights that humbling ourselves leads to divine healing and response from heaven.

Collective Prayer and Revival

• A call for collective prayer over the nation is emphasized, recognizing the spiritual battle Christians face regarding freedom of worship.

• Urgency is expressed for Christians to remain fervent in faith amidst global challenges, anticipating Christ's return.

Wisdom Granted Through Humility

Solomon's Request for Wisdom

• Emphasizes that asking God for wisdom is met with His willingness to provide answers; humility is key in this request.

• Solomon’s plea for an understanding heart illustrates his recognition of his limitations as a leader among God's people.

The Nature of Divine Blessings

• Even with wisdom, without surrender it holds little value; Solomon understood the need for divine guidance beyond mere knowledge.

• God's pleasure in Solomon's request led Him to grant additional blessings like riches and fame, highlighting His generosity.

Caution Against Idolatry

• With blessings come responsibilities; there’s a warning against worshiping gifts rather than the giver.

Godly Wisdom and Its Importance

The Call to Obey God's Commands

• God emphasizes the importance of following His decrees without exceptions, as demonstrated by Solomon's initial kingship aligned with David's ways.

Understanding Dreams as Communication from God

• Solomon realizes his encounter with God was a dream, highlighting that dreams can be a distraction-free way for God to communicate and provide confirmation.

The Value of Godly Wisdom

• Proverbs 3:13-15 illustrates that godly wisdom is more valuable than material wealth, emphasizing its unmatched worth compared to gold and rubies.

The Consequences of Rejecting Knowledge

• Hosea 4:6 warns that people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; rejecting wisdom leads to spiritual consequences, indicating that divine wisdom is available but often ignored.

Distinguishing Between Worldly Knowledge and Biblical Wisdom

• True wisdom differs from mere head knowledge; one can possess intelligence yet still act foolishly. Biblical wisdom guides moral living rather than just intellectual understanding.

The Nature of True Intelligence

Foolishness in Worldly Standards

• Many intelligent individuals may still experience anxiety or depression despite their success, illustrating that worldly status does not equate to true fulfillment or understanding.

God's Perspective on Human Wisdom

• 1 Corinthians 3:19 states that worldly wisdom is foolishness to God; reliance on human cleverness without acknowledging Him leads to ignorance.

Embracing the Weaknesses for Divine Strength

• 1 Corinthians 1:27 highlights how God uses what the world deems weak or foolish to confound the wise, encouraging those who feel inadequate about their capabilities.

The Foundation of Wisdom

Pride as a Downfall

• Ezekiel 28:17 discusses how pride and vanity led to Satan's fall, serving as a caution against allowing intelligence or beauty to corrupt one's heart.

Fear of the Lord as the Beginning of Wisdom

• Proverbs 9:10 asserts that true wisdom starts with reverence for God; knowing Him leads to sound judgment and decision-making in life.

Seeking Guidance from God

Asking for Wisdom

• James 1:5 encourages believers to ask God for wisdom freely; He will provide it generously without condemnation, even if intentions are initially misguided.

Steps Toward Spiritual Growth

• Evaluate Influences: Reflect on whether you listen more to negative voices than Jesus' words.

• Surrender Fully: Identify areas where you hold back from complete trust in God's plan.

• Pray for Transformation: Instead of seeking relief from situations, ask God for personal growth and guidance.

Conclusion and Acknowledgment

Gratitude for Support

• The speaker expresses appreciation for viewers' generosity which enables impactful outreach efforts through faithfulness in giving.

Partnership and Community Engagement

Invitation to Partner with the Ministry

• The speaker encourages viewers to partner with the ministry by visiting authenticchurch.com/give, emphasizing the importance of spreading Jesus' love.

• Acknowledgment is given to both new and long-term partners for their contributions and obedience to God's calling.

Upcoming Awaken Conference 2026

• An invitation is extended for the Awaken Conference scheduled from June 4th to June 7th, highlighting it as a significant event featuring worship bands and speakers.

• The conference aims to unite online participants globally, celebrating faith under one roof while encouraging community engagement.

Call to Action

• Viewers are urged to register for the conference at awakenconference.com, reinforcing the message of community and shared worship experiences.

• The speaker concludes with an encouragement for everyone to embody God's love in their daily lives, fostering a sense of mission among listeners.