Follow Along with the Message

Questionable Faith – Pastor Timothy Parker – 05/28/23 

Barna refers to Generation Z as “The Open Generation”  

Is the Church a place where upcoming generations can be open? 

Challenge Verse:  

1 Peter 3:14-15- But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; 

How to Develop Questionable Faith: 

1.  in the Spirit

1 Peter 3:13-… sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts... 

•  in Him 

John 15:4- Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in me. 

Jesus' abiding- Luke 5:15-16- But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sickness. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. 

Spiritual leading in apologetics- Mark 13:11- When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say, but say whatever is given to you in that hour; for it is not you who speaks, but it is the Holy Spirit. 

If we do not first saturate in the Spirit, we will lean on our own understanding and trust our hearts, both of which scripture warns against. 

2. Build

1 Peter 3:15-… always being ready to make a defense to everyone... but with reverence and gentleness. 

• Be compelled by  

Matthew 9:36- Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd. 

Mark 10:21- Looking at him, Jesus felt a love for him and said “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” 

• Ask and

3. Be

• Know the  

Ephesians 6:12- For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of darkness, against spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 

•  the Spirit with the result 

The upcoming generations need  and , and the Church is the answer!