Outline for sermon preached on September 17, 2017 entitled “The Divine Plan of Pain.”

INTRODUCTION

  1. WWJD? We need to ask WDJD?
  2. We will all experience pain.
  3. Society today tries to shield their children from all pain.
  4. When pain has no purpose life becomes futile (Psalm 119:67).
  5. TEXT: John 11:1-46.
  6. Jesus Christ redeems suffering!
  7. It is in pain that God ceases to be theoretical and becomes personal (Psalm 23:2-4).

OUTLINE

  1. Painful prayer (John 11:3).
    1. “Lord, He whom you love is ill.”
    2. The example is take your concerns to Jesus.
  2. God is always looking beyond our vision.
  3. Jesus is looking to change His friends.
  4. Martha.
    1. Martha was business-like, efficient and practical (Luke 10).
    2. Martha was serving but was weighed down by it.
    3. Work should never crowd out worship.
    4. Martha is changed after the resurrection (John 12:1-2).
  5. Mary.
    1. Mary is always seen at the feet of Jesus.
    2. Mary gave lavishly, completely and to Jesus!
    3. Mary became a memorial!
  6. Lazarus.
    1. Lazarus appears to be the thoughtful and quiet type.
    2. We never heard of Lazarus before his death and resurrection.
    3. You will not find out who you are till you raised from the dead.
    4. God wants to make your life, your story, a testimony.

CONCLUSION

  1. PRAYER.