40: Collecting and Connecting Dots pt. 2

The Neighborhood Church

We collect dots of meaning and purpose as we search for significance at different life stages. Questions surface like, "Who am I becoming?" "How will I prioritize my time?" "What can I do to make a greater contribution?" You have, will, or are searching for meaning -- but what is it that really gives shape to the story of your life? Paul engages with a group of philosophers searching for the plot so he introduces them to the One who can connect the dots they've been collecting along the way. NOTES -- // SCRIPTURE FOCUS -- Acts 17.10-34 // Acts is the story of how the Good News of Jesus is on the move to everyone everywhere. // QUESTIONS FOR DIFFERENT DECADES in Gordon MacDonald's "A Resilient Life" // Why is it so hard to connect the dots (continued)... 1. Epicurians -- God's "out there" and uninvolved 2. Stoics -- God's "in here...and there...and there..." 3. Idolatry -- No room for God at the top. We connect the dots of our heart elsewhere. 4. Resurrection -- No room for God in mystery. // Rather "point the finger," Paul points to the bigness of God. Paul points to the impulse of humanity to search for the Divine. Paul names the One that's unknown and wants to be known. // Panel of non-Christians wish that those who approach them to share their faith had... 1. Friendship 2. Empathy 3. Willingness to Listen // Reminders from Pastor Zach Lambert at Restore Austin: 1. You know how to be a friend so love them well. 2. You know your story of what God has done in your life. 3. You have a flashlight to point them to the One who can love them perfectly.