Sermons

Hearing the Voice of God and the Gift of Discernment Lesson Objective: By the end of this lesson, we will: 1. Understand the biblical foundation for hearing the voice of God. 2. Learn to distinguish God's voice from other voices (self, enemy, or worldly influences). 3. Explore the spiritual gift of discernment—what it is and how it's used. 4. Be encouraged to cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer, scripture, and spiritual attentiveness. Primary Scripture: John 10:27 (NIV) "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." PART 1: Hearing the Voice of God A. What Does it Mean to Hear God's Voice? • God speaks in many ways: through Scripture, His Spirit, other people, circumstances, dreams/visions, and an inner “still small voice.” • Hearing God is relational, not just informational. B. Biblical Examples of Hearing God’s Voice Person Scripture How God Spoke Samuel 1 Samuel 3:1–10 Audible voice in the night Moses Exodus 3:1–4 Burning bush and audible voice Elijah 1 Kings 19:11–13 Gentle whisper Paul (Saul) Acts 9:3–6 Light from heaven and voice Philip Acts 8:29 The Spirit told him to approach the chariot Question for Thought: Have you ever had a moment where you felt God was speaking to you—through Scripture, a person, or even a sudden inner conviction? C. How Do We Hear God Today? • Through Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16–17 • Through the Holy Spirit – John 16:13 • Through prayer and stillness – Psalm 46:10 • Through peace and confirmation – Colossians 3:15 • Through wise counsel – Proverbs 11:14 Note: God’s voice always aligns with His Word and His character. ________________________________________ PART 2: The Gift of Discernment A. What is the Gift of Discernment? 1 Corinthians 12:10 – “to another distinguishing between spirits…” • Discernment is the ability to recognize truth from error, divine from counterfeit, and spiritual motivations behind actions or teachings. • It’s a spiritual gift, not merely a personality trait or gut feeling. B. Examples from Scripture Example Scripture Application Solomon's Wisdom 1 Kings 3:16–28 Discerning truth in a conflict Peter and Ananias/Sapphira Acts 5:1–10 Discerning deception in the church Paul Discerns a Spirit Acts 16:16–18 Discerns the spirit of divination in a slave girl Jesus with Pharisees Matthew 22:18 Jesus perceived their evil intent C. Why We Need Discernment Today • To avoid deception – 1 Timothy 4:1, Matthew 24:24 • To evaluate teaching/preaching – 1 John 4:1 • To make wise decisions – Proverbs 3:5–6 • To stay aligned with God’s will – Romans 12:2 Discussion Prompt: In what areas of your life do you need greater discernment? ________________________________________ PART 3: Application & Prayer A. Developing the Ability to Hear and Discern (5 min) 1. Stay in the Word – Know God’s voice by knowing His Word. 2. Cultivate a Quiet Spirit – Make space for God to speak. 3. Ask for Wisdom and Discernment – James 1:5 4. Test the Spirits – 1 John 4:1–3 5. Obey What You Hear – Luke 11:28 B. Prayer and Reflection Invite the group to pray together: • For clarity to hear God's voice. • For sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. • For the gift of discernment to recognize truth and resist deception. ________________________________________ Summary & Takeaway Points: • God speaks to those who are listening. • His voice brings peace, direction, and aligns with His Word. • The gift of discernment helps believers remain grounded in truth. • Ask daily for a heart that listens and a spirit that discerns.

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