About This Sermon
Jarrett Stephens teaches from 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 to launch the series "Holy Fire." God manifested His presence through fire at the temple's dedication, and Jarrett shows how this moment came through two moves: holy ambition and holy people. The ambition to build for God's glory spanned from the tabernacle to David to Solomon, just as Champion Forest builds on generations of faith. Holy people consecrate themselves, worship in unity, and position themselves to receive God's presence rather than presuming upon it.
The message connects to the church's own renovation and rededication, asking God to fill this place with His manifest presence. Jarrett reminds us that holy fire cannot be managed or produced, but God may send it when His people pursue what He has put in their hearts and live as a consecrated people.
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 7:1-3; James 4:8; Hebrews 12:29; Deuteronomy 4:24; Exodus 25:8-9; Exodus 40:34-38; 2 Samuel 7:1-2; 1 Chronicles 21
Study Guide
A few ideas to carry with you, discuss with your group, or revisit during the week.
Practical Takeaways (5)
- Fire draws people in and drives people away, a picture of God's character throughout Scripture.
- Holy ambition starts in God's heart and spans generations, from the tabernacle to the temple to the church today.
- Holy fire only rests on holy people who consecrate themselves and live in dependence on God.
- God is glorified when His people cry out to Him in faith and when unfamiliar faces come to know Him.
- Our response to holy fire is to stop, drop, and worship.
Discussion Questions (5)
- What does 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 show us about God's presence and how His people responded?
- What has God put in your heart to build or pursue for His glory, even if it takes longer than your own lifetime?
- What does it look like for you to live as a consecrated person rather than presuming upon God's presence?
- How can our church better welcome unfamiliar faces who may not look, speak, or share our background?
- What would it look like for you to stop, drop, and worship when you sense God's presence?
From the Series
