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How To Carry His Presence | Jentezen Franklin

Sunday, December 22



Key Scripture:

1 Samuel 7:1-2, 2 Samuel 6:1-9, Isaiah 9:6, Revelation 22:7

Overview

Pastor Jentezen Franklin’s message highlights the importance of treasuring and prioritizing the presence of God, symbolized in the Ark of the Covenant. Using biblical accounts and Christmas imagery, he emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate manifestation of God's presence, born in Bethlehem as Emmanuel—God with us.

Key Points:

1. The Ark of the Covenant – God’s Presence in the Old Testament:

  • The Ark represented God's power, provision, mercy, and glory. It housed the Ten Commandments, a jar of manna, and Aaron's rod that budded.
  • God's presence demands reverence; mishandling the Ark led to devastating consequences (1 Samuel 4, 1 Samuel 6).

2. Responsibility of Keeping the Presence:

  • Eleazar, the son of Abinadab, was consecrated to "keep the Ark" for 20 years (1 Samuel 7:1-2). This act symbolizes a life of dedication to preserving God’s presence amid personal and cultural challenges.
  • David later restored the Ark to its rightful place, emphasizing reverence and worship every step of the way (2 Samuel 6).

3. Lessons for Today:

  • Don't Miss the Point of Christmas: It is not about traditions but about Jesus, who embodies God’s mercy, provision, and power (Isaiah 9:6).
  • Be a Keeper of God’s Presence: Just as Eleazar dedicated himself, we must prioritize God in every aspect of life—relationships, work, and daily decisions.
  • Reverence and Worship: Treat God’s presence with awe and consistency. David’s celebration of the Ark teaches us to integrate worship into daily life.

4. Jesus, the Ultimate Gift:

  • The Ark pointed to Jesus, who brought God's presence into the world in human form. His birth, life, and sacrifice ensure we can experience God intimately (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23).
  • Revelation 22:7 reminds believers to "keep" the teachings of the Word, staying faithful and expectant of His return.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does the story of Eleazar challenge us to value and prioritize God’s presence in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we "keep the Ark" this Christmas by focusing on Jesus amidst the holiday busyness?

3. How can we, like David, cultivate worship and reverence for God in practical ways?

Application

  • Reflect on how the presence of God influences your decisions and relationships.
  • This Christmas, create moments of personal and family worship to celebrate Emmanuel, God with us.
  • Commit to being a keeper of God’s presence through prayer, Scripture reading, and living a holy life.

Conclusion

The presence of God is the greatest gift we can receive and share. As Pastor Franklin said, "Be a keeper of the presence of God, so future generations can know His mercy, power, and provision.”