Sermon title: God’s Open House
Sermon text: 2 Samuel 7:1-17, Luke 1:30-33
At the peak of his career, David looked around for a capstone project and decided to build a temple. But God graciously declined the offer, raising important questions: Why did God refuse a house? What was God really trying to say to David? In part, a permanent dwelling in one location was never a priority for God. More importantly, God’s heart has always been more inclusive and expansive. In truth, the story of scripture reveals movement toward an open house of love for all people.
The house God builds is for everyone. All are welcome, from the other side of town to the ends of the earth. And yet, God’s people have frequently constructed fortresses rather than houses of welcome and gated communities instead of town squares. Just as God did not want David to build God’s house, it is worth grappling with the possibility that God may have no interest in what we are building today.
Questions for Reflection
- Why did God refuse to let David build a temple?
- What is the house God is building in our midst today?
- What are the walls God is tearing down? What are the doors and windows that God is opening?