He Knows Me

Called by Name: The Intimacy of God's Knowledge

Summary: This theme emphasizes the deep, personal relationship God has with each believer, showcasing how He knows us individually and intimately. It reflects His willingness to guide and love us as unique creations.

Application: Understanding that the Lord knows us by name can instill a profound sense of worth and purpose in our lives. In struggles with identity or feelings of abandonment, knowing that God sees and cares for us can bring comfort and courage to navigate life's challenges.

Teaching: This sermon could teach about the importance of personal relationship with God and how He values each individual. It would help the audience realize the significance of being known by God and the implications this has for their self-image and faith.

How this passage could point to Christ: The Christological focus in this theme illustrates that Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, knows each of His sheep by name (John 10:3). His sacrificial love is a demonstration of how deeply we are valued and known by God, foreshadowing His intimate relationship with us through grace.

Big Idea: God's knowledge of us by name affirms our identity and worth, reminding us that we are cherished and called for His purpose amidst the chaos of life.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon, consider delving into the biblical Hebrew and Greek terms related to 'knowing' and 'calling'. This could provide deeper insights into how these words were understood in their original context. Use your Logos library to explore related passages that illustrate God's knowledge of His people, like Isaiah 43:1 and Psalm 139, to support your arguments effectively.

1. Calling Can Comfort

Isaiah 43:1 ESV

1 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.

You could emphasize how God's personal knowledge of us begins with His act of creation and redemption. In this verse, God calls Israel by name, symbolizing His intimate relationship and protective love. Highlight the assurance of being known by God as a source of encouragement in times of fear and uncertainty.

2. Deep Divine Discovery

Psalm 139:1–6 ESV

1 O Lord, you have searched me and known me! 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. 3 You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. 5 You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.

Perhaps explore the awe-inspiring truth that God knows each intricate detail about us. These verses show the depth of God's understanding and presence in our lives. Consider discussing how His knowledge is not just mere awareness but an intimate, caring gaze over our lives.

3. Shepherd's Sounding Signal

John 10:3–5 ESV

3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”

Maybe examine how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, exemplifies God's personal care by knowing His sheep by name. Discuss the significance of hearing and recognizing His voice, which guides and reassures us in our spiritual journey, bringing a sense of belonging and safety in His fold.

4. Personalized Purpose

Exodus 3:4 ESV

4 When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”

You could reflect on Moses' encounter with God where he was addressed personally. This signifies God's intentional calling which leads us to our destiny. Highlight the personalized nature of God's call and how our unique identity plays a role in fulfilling His purpose.

5. Preordained Plan

Jeremiah 1:5 ESV

5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Perhaps emphasize that before we were formed, God already knew us, illustrating His preordained plan and purpose for our lives. This truth can affirm the value God places on our existence which counters self-doubt and affirms a meaningful life journey.