Essentials... Encounter God | Nathan Hughes
from Vertical Church Teaching Hosted by Vertical Church
Series: Encounter God Week 1 Title: Encounter God Primary Scriptures: Exodus 3; John 4 Big Idea: One true encounter with God can change everything. I. Humanity’s Search for God Throughout history, people have chased sacred places and spiritual experiences. The assumption: if we get to the right place, God will meet us there. Jesus challenges this idea—God is Spirit and seeks worshipers in spirit and truth. II. God Meets Us in Ordinary Places Moses encounters God not in a temple, but in the wilderness. He’s not seeking God—he’s hiding, discouraged, and carrying shame. God often meets us when we least expect it and least feel worthy. III. Encounter Begins with Attention Moses notices the burning bush and turns aside. Encounter starts when we slow down, notice, and lean in. God’s presence turns ordinary ground into holy ground. IV. Encounter Produces Humility Moses removes his sandals—acknowledging God’s holiness. God’s presence exposes our limitations and strips away self-reliance. Holiness flows from God’s presence, not human performance. V. Encounter Always Leads to Calling God reveals His presence and immediately invites Moses into His mission. Every true encounter with God includes an assignment. God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called. VI. Presence Becomes the Priority Moses eventually reaches a place where God’s presence matters more than success. “If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us.” God’s presence moves from being the means to the mission to the meaning of life. Closing Thought Encountering God changes what we want, how we live, and who we trust. God isn’t distant. He’s near—and He’s inviting you to encounter Him.
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What this episode covers
What if encountering God isn’t about getting to the right place—but about having the right posture? In Week 1 of Encounter God, we see that God is not confined to temples, mountains, or sacred spaces. He meets people in ordinary places—and those encounters change everything. Through the story of Moses and the burning bush, this message explores how God reveals Himself to unlikely people, in unexpected places, and for life-changing purposes. Encounter begins with attention, leads to humility, and always results in transformation and calling. In this message, you’ll discover: Why God doesn’t limit His presence to sacred locations How Moses’ encounter in the wilderness reshapes our understanding of holiness Why feeling unworthy doesn’t disqualify you from encountering God How every real encounter leads to surrender, obedience, and mission Why God’s presence must become the purpose—not just the tool If you’re longing for something deeper than routine faith, this message is an invitation to slow down, pay attention, and encounter the living God.
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