Opening - What is something that you really like about Christmas?
As Christmas gets closer we are going to take a look at 3 different reactions that people had to Jesus’ birth.
1) Mary’s Reaction - the Magnifcat, (Latin: [My soul] magnifies) Recorded in Luke 1:46-55.
Spoken by Mary on her visit to to Elizabeth
Several parallels to Hannah’s Magnificat spoken by Hannah after she gave Samuel to Eli.
1 Samuel 2:1-10 Exults in the lord, Holy, power over rulers, satisfies the hungry.
Who is mentioned? Mary, God my Savior, All generations, Rulers, Humble, Israel, Abraham.
What can we tell about how Mary viewed the child?
2) Josephs’ Reaction - Mathew 1:18-25
No words recorded (spoken by Joseph.).
V24 - Obedience
V25 - Love for Mary
3) The Shepherd’s Reaction - Luke 2:8-20
V15 - Go see
V17 - They made known what they had seen.
4) How will you react to Jesus birth?
Is your reaction to the season or the savior?
The Season - There are a lot of elements of the season that point us to the savior, but enjoying family time, worship, the tree, the gifts, the food, and the parties are far removed from the true experience that we can have during this time of year. If we miss the savior and celebrate the season, we miss out.
Of these people we have looked at this morning, what actions do you see that might model for us some ways to respond to the savior?
Praise God (Mary)
Obey God (Joseph)
Tell others about Jesus (Shepherds)
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Biblical Leadership W4 - Getting the Job Done - Exodus 18
The Dilemma: Now when Moses' father-in-law saw all that he was doing for the people, he said, "What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge and all the people stand about you from morning until evening? ...The thing that you are doing is not good”.
The Response: 1. Listen to wise counsel (v24)
2. Share the work / Delegate (v25)
3. Rely on qualified, capable people (v25)
4. Organize the project (v25)
5. Make expectations clear (v20)
The Result: Moses chose able men out of all Israel… They judged the people at all times; the difficult dispute they would bring to Moses, but every minor dispute they themselves would judge.
Why would Moses be receptive to Jethro’s advice?
Why was it difficult for Moses to see his own limitations?
What leadership characteristics are similar to other stories we have studied in this series?
How important is it to have qualified / able people working with a leader?
What could have happen if Moses had not taught the lower level leaders the statutes and the laws?
The Response: 1. Listen to wise counsel (v24)
2. Share the work / Delegate (v25)
3. Rely on qualified, capable people (v25)
4. Organize the project (v25)
5. Make expectations clear (v20)
The Result: Moses chose able men out of all Israel… They judged the people at all times; the difficult dispute they would bring to Moses, but every minor dispute they themselves would judge.
Why would Moses be receptive to Jethro’s advice?
Why was it difficult for Moses to see his own limitations?
What leadership characteristics are similar to other stories we have studied in this series?
How important is it to have qualified / able people working with a leader?
What could have happen if Moses had not taught the lower level leaders the statutes and the laws?
Friday, November 26, 2010
Biblical Leadership W3 Acknowledging the True Leader - Judges 4-5
This is the 3rd week of our survey of leadership in the Bible.
The dilemma: The Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD. So the LORD sold them into the hands of Jabin, a king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth Haggoyim. Because he had nine hundred iron chariots and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the LORD for help.
The Response: 1. Listen to God (v6)
2. Communicate God’s plan (v6)
3. Commit to the plan (v9)
4. Delegate / Don’t do it ALL (v6)
5. Encourage others (v14)
6. Give God the glory (v14-15)
The Result: The LORD routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army with the edge of the sword before Barak; and Sisera alighted from his chariot and fled away on foot. But Barak pursued the chariots and the army as far as Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not even one was left. - 5:31 The land was undisturbed for 40 years.
What happens when leaders listen / don’t listen to God?
How did Deborah respond to Barak’s lack of confidence?
How important is it for a leader to be committed to the plan or organization?
What happens when the leader tries to do EVERYTHING?
What do you think of a leader who gives God the credit for success?
The dilemma: The Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD. So the LORD sold them into the hands of Jabin, a king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth Haggoyim. Because he had nine hundred iron chariots and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the LORD for help.
The Response: 1. Listen to God (v6)
2. Communicate God’s plan (v6)
3. Commit to the plan (v9)
4. Delegate / Don’t do it ALL (v6)
5. Encourage others (v14)
6. Give God the glory (v14-15)
The Result: The LORD routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army with the edge of the sword before Barak; and Sisera alighted from his chariot and fled away on foot. But Barak pursued the chariots and the army as far as Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not even one was left. - 5:31 The land was undisturbed for 40 years.
What happens when leaders listen / don’t listen to God?
How did Deborah respond to Barak’s lack of confidence?
How important is it for a leader to be committed to the plan or organization?
What happens when the leader tries to do EVERYTHING?
What do you think of a leader who gives God the credit for success?
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Biblical Leadership W2 Leading the Congregation – Acts 6
This is the 2nd week in the study of Biblical Leadership. We will examine the leadership principles demonstrated by the disciples in handling a serious problem in the early church.
The dilemma: Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables.
The response: 1. Set Priorities
2. Make a plan
3. Communicate the plan
4. Get approval from the stakeholders
5. Follow through
The result: The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.
How serious was the problem?
Have you seen this pattern used in other situations?
Why did it work in this situation?
Will this model work in every situation?
There was no opposition noted in this passage, how do you think the disciples would have responded to opposition?
Why is it important to get the approval of stakeholders?
What can we learn about leadership from the disciples?
The dilemma: Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables.
The response: 1. Set Priorities
2. Make a plan
3. Communicate the plan
4. Get approval from the stakeholders
5. Follow through
The result: The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.
How serious was the problem?
Have you seen this pattern used in other situations?
Why did it work in this situation?
Will this model work in every situation?
There was no opposition noted in this passage, how do you think the disciples would have responded to opposition?
Why is it important to get the approval of stakeholders?
What can we learn about leadership from the disciples?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Biblical Leadership W1 Taking Advice – 2 Chronicles 10
This week we are beginning a 4 week study on Biblical Leadership. Each lesson will highlight some scriptural example of leadership. This first week we are looking at one of the poorest leaders in the Bible, Rehoboam.
The dilemma: Jeroboam said, "Your father made our yoke hard; now therefore lighten the hard service of your father and his heavy yoke which he put on us, and we will serve you."
Elders Advice: "If you will be kind to this people and please them and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever."
Young Men: Thus you shall say to them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's loins! 'Whereas my father loaded you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.'
Did King Rehoboam demonstrate any wisdom in his approach?
What do you think motivated him to choose his response?
How did the people of Israel respond?
Were there any other options King Rehoboam could have considered?
How did this decision affect his future as a leader?
How did this decision affect the Israelites?
When you get conflicting advice, how do you evaluate it to see what is the best decision?
What can we learn about leadership from Rehoboam?
The dilemma: Jeroboam said, "Your father made our yoke hard; now therefore lighten the hard service of your father and his heavy yoke which he put on us, and we will serve you."
Elders Advice: "If you will be kind to this people and please them and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever."
Young Men: Thus you shall say to them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's loins! 'Whereas my father loaded you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.'
Did King Rehoboam demonstrate any wisdom in his approach?
What do you think motivated him to choose his response?
How did the people of Israel respond?
Were there any other options King Rehoboam could have considered?
How did this decision affect his future as a leader?
How did this decision affect the Israelites?
When you get conflicting advice, how do you evaluate it to see what is the best decision?
What can we learn about leadership from Rehoboam?
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Week 5 Power as an Idol
Week 5 Power as an Idol
This week we will be talking about Power as an Idol. This is another one of those good things, that taken too far (to become the ultimate thing) can be an idol.
What are some synonyms for Power?
Control, Pride, In-charge, Command.
How do people demonstrate their power?
What are some symbols of Power? Air Force One
1981 Alexander Haig – After the assassination attempt on Reagan, V.P. George Bush was not around and Al was in the White House, so he told reporters, “ I am in control here”.
Richard will be preaching on this using Nebuchadnezzar, so I thought we would look at a different passage this morning.
1 Samuel 13:8-14 Saul
Saul decided to take charge and make the burnt offering sacrifice.
What do you think motivated him to do this?
What were the consequences of Saul’s actions?
What is the opposite of Power – Humility, Weakness, ….
One other scripture on Power:
Luke 22:24-27
How does Jesus describe the kings of the Gentiles?
Jesus – the most powerful – is the one who serves the most.
What could you look for to find out if someone held Power in the position of an Idol?
Can an everyday person (like us) elevate the desire for power above our desire to know God?
What would that look like?
How can we avoid it?
This week we will be talking about Power as an Idol. This is another one of those good things, that taken too far (to become the ultimate thing) can be an idol.
What are some synonyms for Power?
Control, Pride, In-charge, Command.
How do people demonstrate their power?
What are some symbols of Power? Air Force One
1981 Alexander Haig – After the assassination attempt on Reagan, V.P. George Bush was not around and Al was in the White House, so he told reporters, “ I am in control here”.
Richard will be preaching on this using Nebuchadnezzar, so I thought we would look at a different passage this morning.
1 Samuel 13:8-14 Saul
Saul decided to take charge and make the burnt offering sacrifice.
What do you think motivated him to do this?
What were the consequences of Saul’s actions?
What is the opposite of Power – Humility, Weakness, ….
One other scripture on Power:
Luke 22:24-27
How does Jesus describe the kings of the Gentiles?
Jesus – the most powerful – is the one who serves the most.
What could you look for to find out if someone held Power in the position of an Idol?
Can an everyday person (like us) elevate the desire for power above our desire to know God?
What would that look like?
How can we avoid it?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Week 4 Success as an Idol
Week 4 Success as an Idol
This week we are going to consider Success as a potential Idol.
Who are the 5 most successful people in America in the last 30 Years?
Why?
Examples Malcolm Gladwell – Outliers – The story of success – 10,000 hours
Beatles 1960 (Hamburg) 1964 (US)
Bill Gates (1968 Junior High – Mother’s club – leased computer time)
Beatles – Hamburg
Keller says that something becomes an idol when it becomes the ultimate thing instead of just a good thing.
In what ways do you attempt to be successful?
What would your reputation be if you never attempted success in anything?
How important is success to you? Rhetorical
Ecclesiastes 2:4-11
Solomon’s success (watch for them, Note them)
Ultimately 12:13 – Fear the Lord.
This concept is easy to see from Solomon’s perspective, but the closer to home we get, the more difficult it is to see.
What would you look for in someone’s life to determine that they put too high a value on success?
Spend a lot of time at something
Achieve something at the cost of something else (relationships, etc.)
Value Position so that others see them as successful
This week we are going to consider Success as a potential Idol.
Who are the 5 most successful people in America in the last 30 Years?
Why?
Examples Malcolm Gladwell – Outliers – The story of success – 10,000 hours
Beatles 1960 (Hamburg) 1964 (US)
Bill Gates (1968 Junior High – Mother’s club – leased computer time)
Beatles – Hamburg
Keller says that something becomes an idol when it becomes the ultimate thing instead of just a good thing.
In what ways do you attempt to be successful?
What would your reputation be if you never attempted success in anything?
How important is success to you? Rhetorical
Ecclesiastes 2:4-11
Solomon’s success (watch for them, Note them)
Ultimately 12:13 – Fear the Lord.
This concept is easy to see from Solomon’s perspective, but the closer to home we get, the more difficult it is to see.
What would you look for in someone’s life to determine that they put too high a value on success?
Spend a lot of time at something
Achieve something at the cost of something else (relationships, etc.)
Value Position so that others see them as successful
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Week 3 Money as an Idol
Week 3 Money as an Idol
Greed is hard to see in one’s self.
Forms – life money love knowledge
Greed: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (as MONEY) than is needed.
Jesus – on Greed:
Luke 12:13-15
Someone in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." But He said to him, "Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?" Then He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions."
What are some different forms of greed?
If a man’s life does not consist of his possessions, what does it consist of?
Luke 16:13-15
"No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other You cannot serve God and wealth." Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, were listening to all these things and were scoffing at Him. And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.
Why can’t we serve two masters?
Jesus saw the Pharisees as they were, men around them saw the external façade. What kind of person do you highly esteem? What characteristics do you think Jesus was talking about?
Luke 19:1-10
1He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2And there was a man called by the name of Zaccheus; he was a chief tax collector and he was rich. 3Zaccheus was trying to see who Jesus was, and was unable because of the crowd, for he was small in stature. 4So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree in order to see Him, for He was about to pass through that way. 5When Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, "Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house." 6And he hurried and came down and received Him gladly. 7When they saw it, they all began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." 8Zaccheus stopped and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much." 9And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, is a son of Abraham. 10"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Prior to Jesus coming along what was Zaccheus’s view of money?
What does this story tell us about having money as an Idol? (Jesus can overcome)
Jesus had different responses to people He encountered. What were some of them? (Ye of little faith, God knows your hearts, Anger in the temple with the money changers)
This was among the best results – Salvation!
God still seeks us today. When He sees His children slowly re-prioritizing our lives, What does He do?
Greed is hard to see in one’s self.
Forms – life money love knowledge
Greed: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (as MONEY) than is needed.
Jesus – on Greed:
Luke 12:13-15
Someone in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." But He said to him, "Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?" Then He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions."
What are some different forms of greed?
If a man’s life does not consist of his possessions, what does it consist of?
Luke 16:13-15
"No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other You cannot serve God and wealth." Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, were listening to all these things and were scoffing at Him. And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.
Why can’t we serve two masters?
Jesus saw the Pharisees as they were, men around them saw the external façade. What kind of person do you highly esteem? What characteristics do you think Jesus was talking about?
Luke 19:1-10
1He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2And there was a man called by the name of Zaccheus; he was a chief tax collector and he was rich. 3Zaccheus was trying to see who Jesus was, and was unable because of the crowd, for he was small in stature. 4So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree in order to see Him, for He was about to pass through that way. 5When Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, "Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house." 6And he hurried and came down and received Him gladly. 7When they saw it, they all began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." 8Zaccheus stopped and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much." 9And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, is a son of Abraham. 10"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Prior to Jesus coming along what was Zaccheus’s view of money?
What does this story tell us about having money as an Idol? (Jesus can overcome)
Jesus had different responses to people He encountered. What were some of them? (Ye of little faith, God knows your hearts, Anger in the temple with the money changers)
This was among the best results – Salvation!
God still seeks us today. When He sees His children slowly re-prioritizing our lives, What does He do?
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Counterfeit Gods Week 2
Genesis 29 – Idolatry of a spouse
Did any of you guys ask for your wife’s hand in marriage from her father?
Not that your wife is an idol in your life, but today we are going to look at a story in the OT where some people sought meaning and purpose for their lives through the relationship they had with their spouse.
Jacob had just stolen the birthright from Esau. (Isaac had blessed Jacob). He left.
Genesis 29:13-20 Romantic Love
Why do you think time passed so quickly for Jacob?
We normally think of this story of a picture of undying romantic love, but is there a chance that Rachel had taken a place in Jacob’s heart above God?
What characteristics do we see to describe Rachel? Beautiful in face and form. Anything Else?
How does physical beauty fit into our culture today?
Does anyone pursue physical beauty more than they pursue God?
What do you think Jacob was thinking about for 7 years?
If I could just have Rachel as my wife, life would be great. She would meet my need for: _________ .
Genesis 29:21-30 Jacob in Heat
What was the main reason that Jacob gave to Laban for getting this show on the road? – To lie with her.
Who can describe how Jacob felt that first morning?
When we try to get something that only God can give from any relationship, it is a disappointment.
New toy? Leah. New car? Leah. New wife? Leah.
I’m not saying never try to do better (job, home, anything in its proper place), but to elevate anything to the level of providing what only God can give will disappoint.
Genesis 29:31 – 30:2 Leah’s children
What was Leah’s focus in chapter 29?
How did she think sons would change her life? 34?
Have you ever known anyone who thought children would solve marriage problems?
Leah was looking to children to help her reach her ultimate goal, being loved by Jacob. Until v35.
Then she finally realized that her love, security, position, and everything else was in God’s hands.
How did Rachel view Jacob?
How did Jacob respond to Rachel’s request for children?
The verses following describe how the two maids bore children for Jacob, then Rachel has Joseph.
Do you think that Rachel was able to fulfill Jacob’s expectations of her?
Each of the people in this story had a deep longing to be loved, and tried to find someone to fulfill that longing. We see that for the most part (except Leah) their expectations were not met. This is the same thing that happens today. Only God can fill that void in our hearts.
Did any of you guys ask for your wife’s hand in marriage from her father?
Not that your wife is an idol in your life, but today we are going to look at a story in the OT where some people sought meaning and purpose for their lives through the relationship they had with their spouse.
Jacob had just stolen the birthright from Esau. (Isaac had blessed Jacob). He left.
Genesis 29:13-20 Romantic Love
Why do you think time passed so quickly for Jacob?
We normally think of this story of a picture of undying romantic love, but is there a chance that Rachel had taken a place in Jacob’s heart above God?
What characteristics do we see to describe Rachel? Beautiful in face and form. Anything Else?
How does physical beauty fit into our culture today?
Does anyone pursue physical beauty more than they pursue God?
What do you think Jacob was thinking about for 7 years?
If I could just have Rachel as my wife, life would be great. She would meet my need for: _________ .
Genesis 29:21-30 Jacob in Heat
What was the main reason that Jacob gave to Laban for getting this show on the road? – To lie with her.
Who can describe how Jacob felt that first morning?
When we try to get something that only God can give from any relationship, it is a disappointment.
New toy? Leah. New car? Leah. New wife? Leah.
I’m not saying never try to do better (job, home, anything in its proper place), but to elevate anything to the level of providing what only God can give will disappoint.
Genesis 29:31 – 30:2 Leah’s children
What was Leah’s focus in chapter 29?
How did she think sons would change her life? 34?
Have you ever known anyone who thought children would solve marriage problems?
Leah was looking to children to help her reach her ultimate goal, being loved by Jacob. Until v35.
Then she finally realized that her love, security, position, and everything else was in God’s hands.
How did Rachel view Jacob?
How did Jacob respond to Rachel’s request for children?
The verses following describe how the two maids bore children for Jacob, then Rachel has Joseph.
Do you think that Rachel was able to fulfill Jacob’s expectations of her?
Each of the people in this story had a deep longing to be loved, and tried to find someone to fulfill that longing. We see that for the most part (except Leah) their expectations were not met. This is the same thing that happens today. Only God can fill that void in our hearts.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Counterfeit Gods Week 1
Counterfeit Gods Week 1
IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
The pursuit of happiness is very American. It is one of the tenants of why we exist as a nation.
How do Americans pursue happiness today?
What things do Americans (in general) think will lead to happiness?
It is a common belief that many of our problems can be solved by having a lot more money than we have. Some Lottery winners stories:
Evelyn Adams – 1985 and 1986 Won $5.4 Million. Gambled most of it away, now lives in a trailer in NJ.
William Post - 1988Won $16.2 Million. Girlfriend, family pestered him for “investments” until he spent it all. He now lives on $450 a month SS and food stamps.
Suanne Mullins – 1993 won 4.2 Million. Spent it all, borrowed more, went bankrupt. Has medical bills she can’t pay.
Some things we pursue can capture our hearts and shift our priority from God to something we feel might give us “happiness”. These things are called Idols.
Let’s look at the ultimate conclusion to Idol worship, as discussed in Romans chapter 1.
Romans 1: 22-25
Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures. Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
What does Paul call someone who worships Idols? (fools)
What were the consequences of this Idol worship? God gave them over to the lusts of their hearts.
What do idol worshippers miss out on? (Down side)
Pursuing our own desires can have disastrous consequences. Sometimes God allows circumstances in our lives to help us see the place “the pursuit of happiness” has taken on our priority list. Other times, God commands people to choose between faithfulness to Him and a potential idol.
Genesis 22:2
Abraham had all the temptations necessary to make his son, Isaac an idol in his life.
Summary – God called Abraham in Genesis 12. He promised him that all the nations of the earth would be blessed by his offspring. Decades passed. No children. Later, Isaac.
Gen 22:2 – God calls Abraham to sacrifice Isaac.
Gen 22:9-12 – God sees Abraham’s commitment to Him.
Abraham’s commitment to God was Total and complete. Keller says, “God’s extremely rough treatment of Abraham was actually merciful. Isaac was a wonderful gift to Abraham, but he was not safe to have and hold until Abraham was willing to put God first. As long as Abraham never had to choose between his son and obedience to God, he could not see that his love [could have] become idolatrous”.
Challenge #1: Look back on your life to see if some of the trials you have faced caused you to choose between something and God.
Challenge #2: What will you pursue this week? Happiness (defined any way you like) or the creator?
IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
The pursuit of happiness is very American. It is one of the tenants of why we exist as a nation.
How do Americans pursue happiness today?
What things do Americans (in general) think will lead to happiness?
It is a common belief that many of our problems can be solved by having a lot more money than we have. Some Lottery winners stories:
Evelyn Adams – 1985 and 1986 Won $5.4 Million. Gambled most of it away, now lives in a trailer in NJ.
William Post - 1988Won $16.2 Million. Girlfriend, family pestered him for “investments” until he spent it all. He now lives on $450 a month SS and food stamps.
Suanne Mullins – 1993 won 4.2 Million. Spent it all, borrowed more, went bankrupt. Has medical bills she can’t pay.
Some things we pursue can capture our hearts and shift our priority from God to something we feel might give us “happiness”. These things are called Idols.
Let’s look at the ultimate conclusion to Idol worship, as discussed in Romans chapter 1.
Romans 1: 22-25
Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures. Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
What does Paul call someone who worships Idols? (fools)
What were the consequences of this Idol worship? God gave them over to the lusts of their hearts.
What do idol worshippers miss out on? (Down side)
Pursuing our own desires can have disastrous consequences. Sometimes God allows circumstances in our lives to help us see the place “the pursuit of happiness” has taken on our priority list. Other times, God commands people to choose between faithfulness to Him and a potential idol.
Genesis 22:2
Abraham had all the temptations necessary to make his son, Isaac an idol in his life.
Summary – God called Abraham in Genesis 12. He promised him that all the nations of the earth would be blessed by his offspring. Decades passed. No children. Later, Isaac.
Gen 22:2 – God calls Abraham to sacrifice Isaac.
Gen 22:9-12 – God sees Abraham’s commitment to Him.
Abraham’s commitment to God was Total and complete. Keller says, “God’s extremely rough treatment of Abraham was actually merciful. Isaac was a wonderful gift to Abraham, but he was not safe to have and hold until Abraham was willing to put God first. As long as Abraham never had to choose between his son and obedience to God, he could not see that his love [could have] become idolatrous”.
Challenge #1: Look back on your life to see if some of the trials you have faced caused you to choose between something and God.
Challenge #2: What will you pursue this week? Happiness (defined any way you like) or the creator?
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Counterfeit Gods Introduction
Tim Keller’s book “Counterfeit Gods”
Focuses on Modern Idols, how to identify them, how they are dangerous, and how to deal with them.
Now through Oct 22.
Why be concerned with Idols?
Exodus 20:1-6 The Ten Commandments
1Then God spoke all these words, saying,
2"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. 3"You shall have no other gods before Me.
4"You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth.
5"You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me, 6but showing lovingkindness to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
Why do you think God put his relationship with us so high on the list?
OT View of Idols
Deuteronomy 4:14-20 – Moses Talking to Israel.
14"The LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that you might perform them in the land where you are going over to possess it. 15"So watch yourselves carefully, since you did not see any form on the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb from the midst of the fire, 16so that you do not act corruptly and make a graven image for yourselves in the form of any figure, the likeness of male or female, 17the likeness of any animal that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged bird that flies in the sky, 18the likeness of anything that creeps on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the water below the earth. 19"And beware not to lift up your eyes to heaven and see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, and be drawn away and worship them and serve them, those which the LORD your God has allotted to all the peoples under the whole heaven. 20"But the LORD has taken you and brought you out of the iron furnace, from Egypt, to be a people for His own possession, as today.
How did Moses describe these graven images?
What was forbidden besides making these Idols? Worshipping them , Serving them
For Israel, what were the dangers or consequences of idolatry?
How do we view Idols today?
SS definition – Anything that takes the place of God in our lives.
SS Examples – Money, Power, Sex, Material possessions
Keller’s working definition – Anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give.
What are some things that ONLY God can give us?
Hope – Meaning – Fulfillment – Peace – Forgiveness – Eternal Life
Keller proposes that most of the things we make into Idols are “good” things. i.e financial responsibility leads to the ability to pay our bills, fund charity, help others, and enjoy life without undue concern for financial obligations. If we make financial responsibility (a good thing) more and more important, it could become the “ultimate” goal in life, thus replacing God as #1.
Money is a real easy one. Let’s pick another. What about a meaningful life? What kind of things do people do to live a meaningful life? Helping others – Giving – Teaching – Mentoring – Serving (public service)
If God is the Lord of your life, how might that affect a person’s desire for a meaningful life?
There can only be one ultimate thing in life. God commands us that that is Him. In this study we are going to look in our own lives to see if we have any idols lurking around, and this study will challenge each of us to follow Joshua’s example in 24:15. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Focuses on Modern Idols, how to identify them, how they are dangerous, and how to deal with them.
Now through Oct 22.
Why be concerned with Idols?
Exodus 20:1-6 The Ten Commandments
1Then God spoke all these words, saying,
2"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. 3"You shall have no other gods before Me.
4"You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth.
5"You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me, 6but showing lovingkindness to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
Why do you think God put his relationship with us so high on the list?
OT View of Idols
Deuteronomy 4:14-20 – Moses Talking to Israel.
14"The LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that you might perform them in the land where you are going over to possess it. 15"So watch yourselves carefully, since you did not see any form on the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb from the midst of the fire, 16so that you do not act corruptly and make a graven image for yourselves in the form of any figure, the likeness of male or female, 17the likeness of any animal that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged bird that flies in the sky, 18the likeness of anything that creeps on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the water below the earth. 19"And beware not to lift up your eyes to heaven and see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, and be drawn away and worship them and serve them, those which the LORD your God has allotted to all the peoples under the whole heaven. 20"But the LORD has taken you and brought you out of the iron furnace, from Egypt, to be a people for His own possession, as today.
How did Moses describe these graven images?
What was forbidden besides making these Idols? Worshipping them , Serving them
For Israel, what were the dangers or consequences of idolatry?
How do we view Idols today?
SS definition – Anything that takes the place of God in our lives.
SS Examples – Money, Power, Sex, Material possessions
Keller’s working definition – Anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give.
What are some things that ONLY God can give us?
Hope – Meaning – Fulfillment – Peace – Forgiveness – Eternal Life
Keller proposes that most of the things we make into Idols are “good” things. i.e financial responsibility leads to the ability to pay our bills, fund charity, help others, and enjoy life without undue concern for financial obligations. If we make financial responsibility (a good thing) more and more important, it could become the “ultimate” goal in life, thus replacing God as #1.
Money is a real easy one. Let’s pick another. What about a meaningful life? What kind of things do people do to live a meaningful life? Helping others – Giving – Teaching – Mentoring – Serving (public service)
If God is the Lord of your life, how might that affect a person’s desire for a meaningful life?
There can only be one ultimate thing in life. God commands us that that is Him. In this study we are going to look in our own lives to see if we have any idols lurking around, and this study will challenge each of us to follow Joshua’s example in 24:15. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Joshua 23 - Last Word
Joshua 23 – Last word
This is Joshua’s final message to Israel. He was 110 years old.
Identify God’s Promises and Commands in 23:5-15
Promises
God will trust them out before you
You will possess the land
One of your men puts flight to 1000 of the enemy
He fights for you
Commands
Be very firm to keep and do all that is written in the Book of the law of Moses
Do not associate with these nations
Or mention the name of their gods
Or make anyone swear by them
Or bow down to them.
Cling to the Lord your God
Take heed to love the lord
IF you go back and cling to the rest of these nations, and intermarry, The Lord will not continue to drive them out from before you, but they will become a snare, trap, whip, thorn, until you perish.
What was the danger of tolerating other religions for the people of Israel?
Dispensationalism – There exists periods in history in which God relates to human beings in different ways under different Biblical covenants. (progressive revelation)
Joshua emphasized the Law of Moses – That was how God revealed Himself to the people of Israel.
When Jesus came he changed things by saying “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished” (Matthew 5:17-18).
Dispensationalists call this new period of history a time of Grace or the Church.
Matthew 28:18-20 Go – Make Disciples.
We have a different command on how to interact with people who have other Gods.
Are the dangers the Israelites faced different than the dangers we face as we interact with people who call upon other gods?
What do we have that they didn’t have?
How do you fulfill this command?
Joshua 24:14-24
The choice that the people of Israel made that day was to serve the Lord.
God is a jealous God – He does not want us to serve other gods.
The choice may seem very clear, but Satan wants to put in our minds that we can serve God and still place a high priority on some other things (money, relationships, power, prestige, entertainment, security).
What does it mean to you to choose to serve God?
This is Joshua’s final message to Israel. He was 110 years old.
Identify God’s Promises and Commands in 23:5-15
Promises
God will trust them out before you
You will possess the land
One of your men puts flight to 1000 of the enemy
He fights for you
Commands
Be very firm to keep and do all that is written in the Book of the law of Moses
Do not associate with these nations
Or mention the name of their gods
Or make anyone swear by them
Or bow down to them.
Cling to the Lord your God
Take heed to love the lord
IF you go back and cling to the rest of these nations, and intermarry, The Lord will not continue to drive them out from before you, but they will become a snare, trap, whip, thorn, until you perish.
What was the danger of tolerating other religions for the people of Israel?
Dispensationalism – There exists periods in history in which God relates to human beings in different ways under different Biblical covenants. (progressive revelation)
Joshua emphasized the Law of Moses – That was how God revealed Himself to the people of Israel.
When Jesus came he changed things by saying “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished” (Matthew 5:17-18).
Dispensationalists call this new period of history a time of Grace or the Church.
Matthew 28:18-20 Go – Make Disciples.
We have a different command on how to interact with people who have other Gods.
Are the dangers the Israelites faced different than the dangers we face as we interact with people who call upon other gods?
What do we have that they didn’t have?
How do you fulfill this command?
Joshua 24:14-24
The choice that the people of Israel made that day was to serve the Lord.
God is a jealous God – He does not want us to serve other gods.
The choice may seem very clear, but Satan wants to put in our minds that we can serve God and still place a high priority on some other things (money, relationships, power, prestige, entertainment, security).
What does it mean to you to choose to serve God?
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Joshua 11 - 12 A Little Less Miraculous
Joshua 11 – A little less Miraculous
Read 1-11 Northern Palestine Taken
What did God Promise Joshua in V6?
Same promise from God – I will deliver them into your hand.
This battle is different from Jerico and Ai in that there was no dramatic intervention from God. We don’t see any “Long day” or “Hailstone” Miracle.
Do you think that Israel still believed that the victory was from God? Why?
Have you ever been in the midst of something that you believed was part of God’s plan, but had trouble seeing God’s hand on your actions?
How can we be sure that we are still headed in the right direction?
One of Satan’s favorite tricks is to suggest that “Maybe that’s not what God wanted you to do after all”.
How can we battle those thoughts?
Joshua 12 – God is Faithful to keep his promises
From Moses through Joshua – God promised to give Israel the Promised Land.
Deuteronomy 31:5 - The LORD will deliver them up before you, and you shall do to them according to all the commandments which I have commanded you.
Joshua 1:6 - Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
Joshua 3:9-10 - Then Joshua said to the sons of Israel, "Come here, and hear the words of the LORD your God. Joshua said, "By this you shall know that the living God is among you, and that He will assuredly dispossess from before you the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Hivite, the Perizzite, the Girgashite, the Amorite, and the Jebusite.
Joshua 10:18-19 - Joshua said, "Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave, and assign men by it to guard them, but do not stay there yourselves; pursue your enemies and attack them in the rear. Do not allow them to enter their cities, for the LORD your God has delivered them into your hand."
Read 12:6-12 & 24. This is the record of God keeping His promise.
Scripture is very clear about God’s record of keeping His promises. What hinders us from believing God will keep His promises to us?
When we find promises in Scripture, how do we know whether or not they are for us or for someone else?
What can we do to build our faith in God’s promises for us?
Read 1-11 Northern Palestine Taken
What did God Promise Joshua in V6?
Same promise from God – I will deliver them into your hand.
This battle is different from Jerico and Ai in that there was no dramatic intervention from God. We don’t see any “Long day” or “Hailstone” Miracle.
Do you think that Israel still believed that the victory was from God? Why?
Have you ever been in the midst of something that you believed was part of God’s plan, but had trouble seeing God’s hand on your actions?
How can we be sure that we are still headed in the right direction?
One of Satan’s favorite tricks is to suggest that “Maybe that’s not what God wanted you to do after all”.
How can we battle those thoughts?
Joshua 12 – God is Faithful to keep his promises
From Moses through Joshua – God promised to give Israel the Promised Land.
Deuteronomy 31:5 - The LORD will deliver them up before you, and you shall do to them according to all the commandments which I have commanded you.
Joshua 1:6 - Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
Joshua 3:9-10 - Then Joshua said to the sons of Israel, "Come here, and hear the words of the LORD your God. Joshua said, "By this you shall know that the living God is among you, and that He will assuredly dispossess from before you the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Hivite, the Perizzite, the Girgashite, the Amorite, and the Jebusite.
Joshua 10:18-19 - Joshua said, "Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave, and assign men by it to guard them, but do not stay there yourselves; pursue your enemies and attack them in the rear. Do not allow them to enter their cities, for the LORD your God has delivered them into your hand."
Read 12:6-12 & 24. This is the record of God keeping His promise.
Scripture is very clear about God’s record of keeping His promises. What hinders us from believing God will keep His promises to us?
When we find promises in Scripture, how do we know whether or not they are for us or for someone else?
What can we do to build our faith in God’s promises for us?
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Joshua 10 - The Long Day
Joshua 10:3-14 – Joshua and the long day
The Gibeonites had tricked Israel into a treaty. Then they were attacked by Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem. They called on Israel for help.
V8 – I have given them into your hands.
Was this promise and different than what God had already promised Joshua?
Why do you think God re-stated it?
V10-14 –The Lord fought for Israel.
What are the 3 things attributed to God in this battle?
1) He confounded the enemy
2) He threw large hailstones at them and killed many
3) He stopped the sun and moon so that the day could be extended.
3 Theories about the sun standing still
1) It is what is says
2) The source of this quotation is a book of Hebrew Poems, “Book of Jashar”. The poetic language if often figurative instead of literal. It may be another way of saying that God helped Joshua accomplish a lot of battle in a short time. We use similar language today.
This has been a long day…
3) Perhaps the daylight was delayed by clouds or an eclipse so that the all night march could be completed.
Main Point – V14 – the Lord fought for Israel.
Read 15-27 the 5 kings (look for 2 places where Joshua gives his soldiers encouragement)
V19 the Lord your God has delivered them into your hand
V 25 be strong and courageous.
Was it important for Joshua to reinforce God’s promise to his army? Why?
Do you remind your friends of God’s promises when they are facing a battle? How?
Has anyone ever encouraged you with a psalm or scripture during a struggle? What difference did it make?
Do you think it made any difference in Joshua’s faith to remind others of God’s promise?
The Gibeonites had tricked Israel into a treaty. Then they were attacked by Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem. They called on Israel for help.
V8 – I have given them into your hands.
Was this promise and different than what God had already promised Joshua?
Why do you think God re-stated it?
V10-14 –The Lord fought for Israel.
What are the 3 things attributed to God in this battle?
1) He confounded the enemy
2) He threw large hailstones at them and killed many
3) He stopped the sun and moon so that the day could be extended.
3 Theories about the sun standing still
1) It is what is says
2) The source of this quotation is a book of Hebrew Poems, “Book of Jashar”. The poetic language if often figurative instead of literal. It may be another way of saying that God helped Joshua accomplish a lot of battle in a short time. We use similar language today.
This has been a long day…
3) Perhaps the daylight was delayed by clouds or an eclipse so that the all night march could be completed.
Main Point – V14 – the Lord fought for Israel.
Read 15-27 the 5 kings (look for 2 places where Joshua gives his soldiers encouragement)
V19 the Lord your God has delivered them into your hand
V 25 be strong and courageous.
Was it important for Joshua to reinforce God’s promise to his army? Why?
Do you remind your friends of God’s promises when they are facing a battle? How?
Has anyone ever encouraged you with a psalm or scripture during a struggle? What difference did it make?
Do you think it made any difference in Joshua’s faith to remind others of God’s promise?
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Joshua 9 When do I Ask God ?
Deut 20:16-18 is God's command to Israel to destroy the inhabitants of Canaan.
Joshua 9:1-18 - Israel made a treaty with the Gibeonites based on false information.
Why were the Gibeonites so believable?
They were very motivated.
Key verse 9:14 - they did not ask for the counsel of the Lord.
Raise your hand if you would seek God's will in these decisions:
Career Change
Marriage partner
new car
new house
Where to go on vacation
Where to eat lunch
What color socks to wear
Some things we decide on our own using the brain God gave us. Some things we know we should seek guidance from the Lord on. Where is the dividing line? Where should it be? How do you know when to decide on your own?
Joshua 9:1-18 - Israel made a treaty with the Gibeonites based on false information.
Why were the Gibeonites so believable?
They were very motivated.
Key verse 9:14 - they did not ask for the counsel of the Lord.
Raise your hand if you would seek God's will in these decisions:
Career Change
Marriage partner
new car
new house
Where to go on vacation
Where to eat lunch
What color socks to wear
Some things we decide on our own using the brain God gave us. Some things we know we should seek guidance from the Lord on. Where is the dividing line? Where should it be? How do you know when to decide on your own?
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Joshua 7 – 8 Israel and the Battle of Ai / Sin and Consequences
Joshua 7 – 8 Israel and the Battle of Ai / Sin and Consequences
The Lord specified what to do with certain spoils from Jericho. Let’s read about how one person responded to those directions.
Joshua 7: 1-15
One man sinned Achan – What were the consequences?
4 Battle lost to a few Ai-s.
5 36 men died.
5 The people’s hearts became like water.
6 Joshua and the Elders lost faith in God. (Why?)
12 Israel cannot stand before their enemies.
12 Israel has become accursed.
12 I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy the things in your midst.
Why did Achan’s sin result in consequences for the whole nation?
Let’s spend a few minutes looking at how wide the impact of our sin goes.
I’ll pick something easy. Let’s say that someone makes some bad decisions – like Achan – and sees something he wants – like Meth – and takes it- and gets hooked on the drug. It destroys the person’s body, but what else happens? Family – friends – the public – all suffer.
Now let’s bring it home. What about your sin? How wide are those consequences spread?
Family – Friends-Church- community- work?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What was Joshua’s concern after the defeat in Battle? Why did you bring us here? What about your (God’s reputation). Why was Joshua concerned about God’s reputation?
What was God’s concern after the battle? –Israel’s sin/ Obedience - how were these two different?
Joshua 7:16-26
More stones – Another reminder
Why do you think God commanded them to kill and burn Achan and all that belonged to him?
Sin is Serious.
Joshua 8:1-13 and 18 and 25-29.
Israel won the 2nd battle of Ai with God’s help.
What was the difference for most of Israel (all but Achan) between Battle #1 and Battle #2?
What do these events say about God’s character?
What does this story tell us about our sin?
If you look at your daily schedule as a battle, how should you prepare for it in light of this story?
8:30-35 – Another Rockpile. This alter, with the commandments written on it, served as a reminder to Israel of the consequences of disobedience. What serves as a reminder to obey God in your life?
The Lord specified what to do with certain spoils from Jericho. Let’s read about how one person responded to those directions.
Joshua 7: 1-15
One man sinned Achan – What were the consequences?
4 Battle lost to a few Ai-s.
5 36 men died.
5 The people’s hearts became like water.
6 Joshua and the Elders lost faith in God. (Why?)
12 Israel cannot stand before their enemies.
12 Israel has become accursed.
12 I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy the things in your midst.
Why did Achan’s sin result in consequences for the whole nation?
Let’s spend a few minutes looking at how wide the impact of our sin goes.
I’ll pick something easy. Let’s say that someone makes some bad decisions – like Achan – and sees something he wants – like Meth – and takes it- and gets hooked on the drug. It destroys the person’s body, but what else happens? Family – friends – the public – all suffer.
Now let’s bring it home. What about your sin? How wide are those consequences spread?
Family – Friends-Church- community- work?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What was Joshua’s concern after the defeat in Battle? Why did you bring us here? What about your (God’s reputation). Why was Joshua concerned about God’s reputation?
What was God’s concern after the battle? –Israel’s sin/ Obedience - how were these two different?
Joshua 7:16-26
More stones – Another reminder
Why do you think God commanded them to kill and burn Achan and all that belonged to him?
Sin is Serious.
Joshua 8:1-13 and 18 and 25-29.
Israel won the 2nd battle of Ai with God’s help.
What was the difference for most of Israel (all but Achan) between Battle #1 and Battle #2?
What do these events say about God’s character?
What does this story tell us about our sin?
If you look at your daily schedule as a battle, how should you prepare for it in light of this story?
8:30-35 – Another Rockpile. This alter, with the commandments written on it, served as a reminder to Israel of the consequences of disobedience. What serves as a reminder to obey God in your life?
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Whose side are you on? - Jerico
Joshua 5:13-6:27 Whose side are you on? – Jerico
When was the last time you went to a T-High – A-High football game?
Which side did you sit on?
Are you” for us” or “against us” is important in many settings. Joshua, as the leader of Israel, heading into battle had an “us versus them” attitude.
Israel was headed into their first battle in the new land.
Read Joshua 5:13-15. This is a Theophany – a physical appearance of God, in the form of a man (the pre-incarnate Christ). In this appearance, he had drawn a sword. It wasn’t unusual for Joshua to ask whose side He was on, but the answer he got was probably not what he expected.
NO
What does this answer say about God being on the Israelites “side”?
What was Joshua’s response to the Lord in v. 14? And in v. 15?
How close do you have to be to God to worship Him? A physical encounter, a church service, a Bible study, a prayer time, a challenge to your faith?
Chapter 6:1-16 and V20
How would an army normally take over a walled city like Jerico?
Why do you think God commanded them to do it this way?
Has God ever told you to do something in a way that is not the normal way? How did you respond?
What happened in the camp during those 6 days of marching around Jerico once a day? What was it like?
V2 says “See, I have given Jerico into your hand, with its king and valiant warriors”. Past Tense. Had He done it yet? How did that work?
6:21-25 Utter destruction.
This seems harsh. Why do you think God had them kill everyone except Rahab and her family?
Look back at 5:13 (the Theophany) This whole battle began with the Lord’s sword drawn. Once the fire was out, do you think there was any question about how this victory was won?
When was the last time you went to a T-High – A-High football game?
Which side did you sit on?
Are you” for us” or “against us” is important in many settings. Joshua, as the leader of Israel, heading into battle had an “us versus them” attitude.
Israel was headed into their first battle in the new land.
Read Joshua 5:13-15. This is a Theophany – a physical appearance of God, in the form of a man (the pre-incarnate Christ). In this appearance, he had drawn a sword. It wasn’t unusual for Joshua to ask whose side He was on, but the answer he got was probably not what he expected.
NO
What does this answer say about God being on the Israelites “side”?
What was Joshua’s response to the Lord in v. 14? And in v. 15?
How close do you have to be to God to worship Him? A physical encounter, a church service, a Bible study, a prayer time, a challenge to your faith?
Chapter 6:1-16 and V20
How would an army normally take over a walled city like Jerico?
Why do you think God commanded them to do it this way?
Has God ever told you to do something in a way that is not the normal way? How did you respond?
What happened in the camp during those 6 days of marching around Jerico once a day? What was it like?
V2 says “See, I have given Jerico into your hand, with its king and valiant warriors”. Past Tense. Had He done it yet? How did that work?
6:21-25 Utter destruction.
This seems harsh. Why do you think God had them kill everyone except Rahab and her family?
Look back at 5:13 (the Theophany) This whole battle began with the Lord’s sword drawn. Once the fire was out, do you think there was any question about how this victory was won?
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Remembering what God has done
Joshua 3:1-5:12
Remembering What God has done
How has God blessed you this week?
This week we are going to see how Israel tried to remember their miraculous crossing into the Promised Land. We pick up the story in Chapter 3. The spies have reported back, It’s full steam ahead.
Read Joshua 3:1-5. The people had 3 days to think about the next steps. They were entering into the land God had promised, a lot of uncertainty lie ahead. Joshua called for the people to consecrate themselves.
One definition of consecration is to set apart or dedicate yourself to the service of God.
Back in Exodus 19:14-15 Israelites consecrated themselves by washing their clothes and abstaining from sexual contact. This was just before they were given the 10 commandments, another important occasion.
Have you ever consecrated yourself? When? How? What would be a time when you might want to do that?
Time to go – Read 3:6-13 & 17
What did God Promise Joshua? (v7) I will exalt you in the sight of Israel. I will be with you .
They were consecrated, they were going to do all God had for them to do. They had likely heard the story of the Exodus. Who do you think this miracle affected them? Do you think they learned something about God through this experience?
God wanted them to remember what He had done for them, so He commanded them to do something special. Read 4:1-8
God commanded them to haul out 12 big rocks and stack them up as a memorial. Why?
Earlier, we shared some blessings that God has given us. Is it important for us to remember God’s blessings? Why?
How do you remember what God has done for you? Memory? Stones? What about sharing your experiences with others? Children? Family? Others?
Ch 5 tells about the males all getting circumcised with flint knives and how one of their potential enemies was scared off by the miracle at the crossing of the Jordan.
V10-12- The manna stopped. Wow. How important was that stack of stones on the first day with no manna?
God changed the way he provided for Israel from Manna to the produce in the promised land. When he changes the way he provides for us, those previous blessings can be an important reminder of His love and provision.
Remembering What God has done
How has God blessed you this week?
This week we are going to see how Israel tried to remember their miraculous crossing into the Promised Land. We pick up the story in Chapter 3. The spies have reported back, It’s full steam ahead.
Read Joshua 3:1-5. The people had 3 days to think about the next steps. They were entering into the land God had promised, a lot of uncertainty lie ahead. Joshua called for the people to consecrate themselves.
One definition of consecration is to set apart or dedicate yourself to the service of God.
Back in Exodus 19:14-15 Israelites consecrated themselves by washing their clothes and abstaining from sexual contact. This was just before they were given the 10 commandments, another important occasion.
Have you ever consecrated yourself? When? How? What would be a time when you might want to do that?
Time to go – Read 3:6-13 & 17
What did God Promise Joshua? (v7) I will exalt you in the sight of Israel. I will be with you .
They were consecrated, they were going to do all God had for them to do. They had likely heard the story of the Exodus. Who do you think this miracle affected them? Do you think they learned something about God through this experience?
God wanted them to remember what He had done for them, so He commanded them to do something special. Read 4:1-8
God commanded them to haul out 12 big rocks and stack them up as a memorial. Why?
Earlier, we shared some blessings that God has given us. Is it important for us to remember God’s blessings? Why?
How do you remember what God has done for you? Memory? Stones? What about sharing your experiences with others? Children? Family? Others?
Ch 5 tells about the males all getting circumcised with flint knives and how one of their potential enemies was scared off by the miracle at the crossing of the Jordan.
V10-12- The manna stopped. Wow. How important was that stack of stones on the first day with no manna?
God changed the way he provided for Israel from Manna to the produce in the promised land. When he changes the way he provides for us, those previous blessings can be an important reminder of His love and provision.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Joshua 1
Joshua Week 1
Where did you go the first time you drove a car by yourself?
Joshua – The Book
History (Joshua – Ester)
Themes – Conquering Canaan, Obedience, God as the ultimate promise Keeper, and Courage under pressure.
Taking Responsibility
Joshua 1:1-9 (Look for Promises)
2)I am giving you the land
3)I have given it to you
4)describes the boundaries
5)No man will be able to stand before you all of the days of your life.
9)God is with you.
Joshua was put in charge of Israel – ordered into battle – and given clear marching orders.
He was also given a lot of encouragement (Strong and Courageous)
V6,V7,V9 –God
V18 – Israel Speaking
Deuteronomy 31:7 Moses Speaking
Why do you think Joshua needed so much encouragement to be strong and courageous?
Truth Honor and Bravery!
When do you need encouragement?
How do you give encouragement to others?
Look again at verse 8 –
What is the relationship between God’s law and Joshua’s success?
Is that relationship valid today?
What does it mean for a Christian to have success?
16-18 Israel’ response
Off to the right foot, but has a hollow ring. They did not obey Moses.
They had good intentions.
As you face challenges you can:
Look to God’s promises
Meditate on His Word
Take encouragement from others, and
Take Command – V10-15
Where did you go the first time you drove a car by yourself?
Joshua – The Book
History (Joshua – Ester)
Themes – Conquering Canaan, Obedience, God as the ultimate promise Keeper, and Courage under pressure.
Taking Responsibility
Joshua 1:1-9 (Look for Promises)
2)I am giving you the land
3)I have given it to you
4)describes the boundaries
5)No man will be able to stand before you all of the days of your life.
9)God is with you.
Joshua was put in charge of Israel – ordered into battle – and given clear marching orders.
He was also given a lot of encouragement (Strong and Courageous)
V6,V7,V9 –God
V18 – Israel Speaking
Deuteronomy 31:7 Moses Speaking
Why do you think Joshua needed so much encouragement to be strong and courageous?
Truth Honor and Bravery!
When do you need encouragement?
How do you give encouragement to others?
Look again at verse 8 –
What is the relationship between God’s law and Joshua’s success?
Is that relationship valid today?
What does it mean for a Christian to have success?
16-18 Israel’ response
Off to the right foot, but has a hollow ring. They did not obey Moses.
They had good intentions.
As you face challenges you can:
Look to God’s promises
Meditate on His Word
Take encouragement from others, and
Take Command – V10-15
Sunday, May 2, 2010
James 4b
James 4b
4:13-17 Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit." 14Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that." 16But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil. 17Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
If the Lord Wills … Latin Phrase Deo Volente. Meaning “Lord Willing”. Or D.V. used after a signature on a letter regarding future plans.
Vapor / Fireworks in Dallas.
The hypothetical here is very specific. City/year/business/profit.
Does this verse teach us that we should not make plans for the future?
How should we plan for the future?
Last week we discussed what we think will happen during the next few months.
Are our plans “World Friendly”?
Do your plans take into account what the Holy Spirit within you is guiding you to do?
Chapter 5:7-11
5:7-11 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. 8You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. 10As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11We count those blessed who endured You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
Remember James 1:2-5?
2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
Endurance – Patience – Suffering
Chapter 1 – Perfect and complete
Chapter 5 – See the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of Compassion and is merciful.
Testimony that the outcome of the Lord’s dealings ?
13Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises. 14Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; 15and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up, and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him.
More suffering. We talked about endurance, what other suggestions does James have for those who are suffering or sick? PRAYER
16Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
Can we do this? Where?, How?, When?
4:13-17 Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit." 14Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that." 16But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil. 17Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
If the Lord Wills … Latin Phrase Deo Volente. Meaning “Lord Willing”. Or D.V. used after a signature on a letter regarding future plans.
Vapor / Fireworks in Dallas.
The hypothetical here is very specific. City/year/business/profit.
Does this verse teach us that we should not make plans for the future?
How should we plan for the future?
Last week we discussed what we think will happen during the next few months.
Are our plans “World Friendly”?
Do your plans take into account what the Holy Spirit within you is guiding you to do?
Chapter 5:7-11
5:7-11 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. 8You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. 10As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11We count those blessed who endured You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
Remember James 1:2-5?
2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
Endurance – Patience – Suffering
Chapter 1 – Perfect and complete
Chapter 5 – See the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of Compassion and is merciful.
Testimony that the outcome of the Lord’s dealings ?
13Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises. 14Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; 15and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up, and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him.
More suffering. We talked about endurance, what other suggestions does James have for those who are suffering or sick? PRAYER
16Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
Can we do this? Where?, How?, When?
Sunday, April 25, 2010
James 4a
James 4a
4:1-8
Quarrels and Conflicts – Source – Pleasures
V2-3 No ask / ask no get / ask with wrong motives (for pleasure)
A selfish attitude brings quarrels and conflict – not pleasure.
1:2 (12) My Brethern – 1:19 (3) My Beloved Bretheren 4:4 You adulteresses.
V4 Friendship with the world is hostility toward God.
What does this world offer that tempts us to be friends with “the World”?
Money, relationships, position, power, prestige, comfort, entertainment.
When we become friendly to these things, why does that affect our relationship with God?
The word Friend is a little sneaky here. Usually we think of friendship as a good thing. 4B says that if we want to be a friend of the world, we are making ourselves an enemy of God.
V5 What is God’s desire for us in V5? – The Holy Spirit to Dwell in us.
Take 6 and 7 together.
But He gives a greater grace Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." Submit therefore to God, Resist the Devil and he will flee from you.
Proud –God is opposed / Grace to the Humble / Submit to God / Devil Flee
Pride /Grace /Submit/ Flee
V8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you; cleanse your hands and purify your hearts.
That works- When we seek God does that change the way we see ourselves? How?
Skip to V13-16
If the Lord Wills … Latin Phrase Deo Volente. Meaning “Lord Willing”. Or D.V. used after a signature on a letter regarding future plans.
Vapor / Fireworks in Dallas.
The hypothetical here is very specific. City/year/business/profit. Does this verse teach us that we should not make plans for the future?
How should we plan for the future?
This morning we discussed what we think will happen during the next few months.
Are our plans “World Friendly”?
Do your plans take into account what the Holy Spirit within you is guiding you to do?
4:1-8
Quarrels and Conflicts – Source – Pleasures
V2-3 No ask / ask no get / ask with wrong motives (for pleasure)
A selfish attitude brings quarrels and conflict – not pleasure.
1:2 (12) My Brethern – 1:19 (3) My Beloved Bretheren 4:4 You adulteresses.
V4 Friendship with the world is hostility toward God.
What does this world offer that tempts us to be friends with “the World”?
Money, relationships, position, power, prestige, comfort, entertainment.
When we become friendly to these things, why does that affect our relationship with God?
The word Friend is a little sneaky here. Usually we think of friendship as a good thing. 4B says that if we want to be a friend of the world, we are making ourselves an enemy of God.
V5 What is God’s desire for us in V5? – The Holy Spirit to Dwell in us.
Take 6 and 7 together.
But He gives a greater grace Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." Submit therefore to God, Resist the Devil and he will flee from you.
Proud –God is opposed / Grace to the Humble / Submit to God / Devil Flee
Pride /Grace /Submit/ Flee
V8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you; cleanse your hands and purify your hearts.
That works- When we seek God does that change the way we see ourselves? How?
Skip to V13-16
If the Lord Wills … Latin Phrase Deo Volente. Meaning “Lord Willing”. Or D.V. used after a signature on a letter regarding future plans.
Vapor / Fireworks in Dallas.
The hypothetical here is very specific. City/year/business/profit. Does this verse teach us that we should not make plans for the future?
How should we plan for the future?
This morning we discussed what we think will happen during the next few months.
Are our plans “World Friendly”?
Do your plans take into account what the Holy Spirit within you is guiding you to do?
Sunday, April 11, 2010
James 2b
James 2 Second Lesson
2:14-17
What kind of works is James talking about? (Besides helping with food and clothing).
Jesus preached about some works in Luke 6:27-45
Let’s read this passage and see how many “works” ideas we can identify in Jesus’ sermon.
Love your enemies
Bless those who curse you
-Golden Rule
Love those who don’t love you.
Be merciful
Do not judge
Give
Learn
Look at your own life
Produce good fruit
What kind of faith is James talking about here?
Saving faith is discussed in Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.
and Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
18-20 – Useless
How do you know if someone has a true faith in God (v. 18)?
20 close comparisons between James and the Sermon on the Mount
Luke 6:46- 49 talks about those who have a true relationship with Jesus and those who do not.
V47-He hears my words and acts on them.
-Time Permitting-
James 21-26
Abraham / Rahab
What was the tie in (relationship) between these two’s faith in God and their works?
Their works was a demonstration of their faith.
These “works”. Can they be done without faith? Consistently?
2:14-17
What kind of works is James talking about? (Besides helping with food and clothing).
Jesus preached about some works in Luke 6:27-45
Let’s read this passage and see how many “works” ideas we can identify in Jesus’ sermon.
Love your enemies
Bless those who curse you
-Golden Rule
Love those who don’t love you.
Be merciful
Do not judge
Give
Learn
Look at your own life
Produce good fruit
What kind of faith is James talking about here?
Saving faith is discussed in Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.
and Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
18-20 – Useless
How do you know if someone has a true faith in God (v. 18)?
20 close comparisons between James and the Sermon on the Mount
Luke 6:46- 49 talks about those who have a true relationship with Jesus and those who do not.
V47-He hears my words and acts on them.
-Time Permitting-
James 21-26
Abraham / Rahab
What was the tie in (relationship) between these two’s faith in God and their works?
Their works was a demonstration of their faith.
These “works”. Can they be done without faith? Consistently?
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter - Mark 10:32-45
Easter – Mark 10:32-45
Much of what we study focuses on how we can improve our walk with God.
Scripture teaches us how to act, love, walk, talk, share, relate to others, and generally how we need to live in light of what Jesus has done.
But today, in this week just before Easter, instead of focusing on our own situation, our own spiritual condition, our own walk with God, I want us to look directly at Jesus. This is the perfect time of year for us to concentrate on Him, rather than “me”.
Jesus' Sufferings Foretold
32They were on the road going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking on ahead of them; and they were amazed, and those who followed were fearful. And again He took the twelve aside and began to tell them what was going to happen to Him,
33saying, "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and will hand Him over to the Gentiles.
34"They will mock Him and spit on Him, and scourge Him and kill Him, and three days later He will rise again."
35James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came up to Jesus, saying, "Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You."
36And He said to them, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
37They said to Him, "Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory."
38But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?"
39They said to Him, "We are able." And Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you shall drink; and you shall be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized.
40"But to sit on My right or on My left, this is not Mine to give; but it is for those for whom it has been prepared."
41Hearing this, the ten began to feel indignant with James and John.
42Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, "You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them.
43"But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant;
44and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all.
45"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
Jesus and the 12 were on the way to Jerusalem. It is clear that he is about to give his life for them.
After he tells them this, how do they respond?
Why do you think it was so hard for them to look past their own desires and see what Jesus was doing?
With the knowledge you have about what happened in the next few weeks (hindsight), what do you think a better response would have been for the disciples?
Another element in this passage is the relationship between James and John, and the other 10 disciples.
What was that problem?
Is it hard for us to change our focus from “me” to Him?
Do people around us contribute to our lack of focusing on Jesus (Like the disciples)?
What some of the things this passage tells us about Jesus?
Servant – Suffered for us – He knew it ahead of time (in detail) – He wanted to teach the disciples
He would conquer death (rise after 3 days)
Much of what we study focuses on how we can improve our walk with God.
Scripture teaches us how to act, love, walk, talk, share, relate to others, and generally how we need to live in light of what Jesus has done.
But today, in this week just before Easter, instead of focusing on our own situation, our own spiritual condition, our own walk with God, I want us to look directly at Jesus. This is the perfect time of year for us to concentrate on Him, rather than “me”.
Jesus' Sufferings Foretold
32They were on the road going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking on ahead of them; and they were amazed, and those who followed were fearful. And again He took the twelve aside and began to tell them what was going to happen to Him,
33saying, "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and will hand Him over to the Gentiles.
34"They will mock Him and spit on Him, and scourge Him and kill Him, and three days later He will rise again."
35James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came up to Jesus, saying, "Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You."
36And He said to them, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
37They said to Him, "Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory."
38But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?"
39They said to Him, "We are able." And Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you shall drink; and you shall be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized.
40"But to sit on My right or on My left, this is not Mine to give; but it is for those for whom it has been prepared."
41Hearing this, the ten began to feel indignant with James and John.
42Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, "You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them.
43"But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant;
44and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all.
45"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
Jesus and the 12 were on the way to Jerusalem. It is clear that he is about to give his life for them.
After he tells them this, how do they respond?
Why do you think it was so hard for them to look past their own desires and see what Jesus was doing?
With the knowledge you have about what happened in the next few weeks (hindsight), what do you think a better response would have been for the disciples?
Another element in this passage is the relationship between James and John, and the other 10 disciples.
What was that problem?
Is it hard for us to change our focus from “me” to Him?
Do people around us contribute to our lack of focusing on Jesus (Like the disciples)?
What some of the things this passage tells us about Jesus?
Servant – Suffered for us – He knew it ahead of time (in detail) – He wanted to teach the disciples
He would conquer death (rise after 3 days)
Thursday, April 1, 2010
James 2a
James 2
1-8 V8 If you show partiality you are committing sin. Just like Murder / Adultery.
V4 (evil Motive) How do we decide what someone’s motive is?
Job 34:16-19 “Him who is righteous and mighty” is God – one reason that he shows no partiality is that he made them all.
9-13 You are a transgressor of the law.
So Speak and So act as those who are judged by the law of Liberty.
Mercy triumphs over judgment.
14-17
What kind of works is James talking about? (Besides helping with food and clothing).
List some things.
What kind of faith is James talking about here?
Saving faith is discussed in Romans 5:1 and Ephesians 2:8-9
18-20 – Useless
How do you know if someone has a true faith in God (v. 18)?
20 close comparisons between James and the Sermon on the Mount
Matthew 7:21 and Luke 6:46 talk about those who will have a true relationship with Jesus.
Doing what God wants us to do.
James 21-26
Abraham / Rahab
What was the tie in (relationship) between these two’s faith in God and their works?
Their works was a demonstration of their faith.
These “works”. Can they be done without faith? Consistently?
How can we keep up the good work?
Rich man / Poor man beginning
V17 Faith being without works is dead.
Abraham / Rahab ending
1-8 V8 If you show partiality you are committing sin. Just like Murder / Adultery.
V4 (evil Motive) How do we decide what someone’s motive is?
Job 34:16-19 “Him who is righteous and mighty” is God – one reason that he shows no partiality is that he made them all.
9-13 You are a transgressor of the law.
So Speak and So act as those who are judged by the law of Liberty.
Mercy triumphs over judgment.
14-17
What kind of works is James talking about? (Besides helping with food and clothing).
List some things.
What kind of faith is James talking about here?
Saving faith is discussed in Romans 5:1 and Ephesians 2:8-9
18-20 – Useless
How do you know if someone has a true faith in God (v. 18)?
20 close comparisons between James and the Sermon on the Mount
Matthew 7:21 and Luke 6:46 talk about those who will have a true relationship with Jesus.
Doing what God wants us to do.
James 21-26
Abraham / Rahab
What was the tie in (relationship) between these two’s faith in God and their works?
Their works was a demonstration of their faith.
These “works”. Can they be done without faith? Consistently?
How can we keep up the good work?
Rich man / Poor man beginning
V17 Faith being without works is dead.
Abraham / Rahab ending
Saturday, March 27, 2010
James Chapter 1
James 1 -Practical Christian Living
Writing to Jews (12 tribes disbursed)
One of the first Letters in the New Testament era
Written before Paul’s missionary work was completed (45-50A.D.)
James 1:2-4
Trials – The testing of your faith produces endurance. Endurance results in perfection (Lacking nothing).
What does James mean by the “testing of your faith”?
How does testing your faith produce endurance?
Once we train ourselves to endure, what does it mean to be lacking nothing?
James 1:5-8 Asking in Faith
Is God described elsewhere in scripture as “Generous”?
Condition- Ask with faith without doubting.
The doubter should not expect to receive anything.
James 1:12 –Blessed is the man
Perseverance brings blessings.
James 1:13-21 Temptation is not from God
15 The ultimate result is death.
17 God’s Gifts are good gifts.
17 The Father of Lights does not vary or change.
What does that mean for us?
What if God’s character was not consistent or reliable?
20 Man’s anger does not achieve the righteousness of God.
22-25 Doers of the Word are blessed.
What is a doer of the word?
Math homework helps us remember.
Writing to Jews (12 tribes disbursed)
One of the first Letters in the New Testament era
Written before Paul’s missionary work was completed (45-50A.D.)
James 1:2-4
Trials – The testing of your faith produces endurance. Endurance results in perfection (Lacking nothing).
What does James mean by the “testing of your faith”?
How does testing your faith produce endurance?
Once we train ourselves to endure, what does it mean to be lacking nothing?
James 1:5-8 Asking in Faith
Is God described elsewhere in scripture as “Generous”?
Condition- Ask with faith without doubting.
The doubter should not expect to receive anything.
James 1:12 –Blessed is the man
Perseverance brings blessings.
James 1:13-21 Temptation is not from God
15 The ultimate result is death.
17 God’s Gifts are good gifts.
17 The Father of Lights does not vary or change.
What does that mean for us?
What if God’s character was not consistent or reliable?
20 Man’s anger does not achieve the righteousness of God.
22-25 Doers of the Word are blessed.
What is a doer of the word?
Math homework helps us remember.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Solomon - Rock Star 1 Kings 10
Solomon – The Rock Star
Who can name 1 Beatles song?
How many records have they sold? 139.5 Million (U.S.)
What perks come along with being a Rock Star?
Solomon’s #1 groupie – The Queen of Sheba
Heard about him and came to see him.
1 Kings 10:6-10 – Her Quote
What areas did she comment on:
Reputation
Wisdom
Prosperity
His men and servants
His God
His Kingship
It’s hard to relate to a rock star like Solomon, but he was known for these (above) things – What are you known for? (among your family, friends, church, and community).
Is your relationship to God one of the top 6?
Solomon’s Riches.
Deuteronomy 17: 14-17
"When you enter the land which the LORD your God gives you, and you possess it and live in it, and you say, 'I will set a king over me like all the nations who are around me,' 15you shall surely set a king over you whom the LORD your God chooses, one from among your countrymen you shall set as king over yourselves; you may not put a foreigner over yourselves who is not your countryman. 16"Moreover, he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor shall he cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, since the LORD has said to you, 'You shall never again return that way.' 17"He shall not multiply wives for himself, or else his heart will turn away; nor shall he greatly increase silver and gold for himself.
1 Kings 10:23-29
Solomon’s began to turn away from the obedience that God had called him to. These actions are in direct rebellion to God’s commands.
Can you imagine the level of temptation he faced?
Rock stars are tempted to do all kinds of things.
What about the temptations you face?
Does success (in any area) open the door for temptation?
What can we learn by studying Solomon’s life that will help us triumph over temptation?
Who can name 1 Beatles song?
How many records have they sold? 139.5 Million (U.S.)
What perks come along with being a Rock Star?
Solomon’s #1 groupie – The Queen of Sheba
Heard about him and came to see him.
1 Kings 10:6-10 – Her Quote
What areas did she comment on:
Reputation
Wisdom
Prosperity
His men and servants
His God
His Kingship
It’s hard to relate to a rock star like Solomon, but he was known for these (above) things – What are you known for? (among your family, friends, church, and community).
Is your relationship to God one of the top 6?
Solomon’s Riches.
Deuteronomy 17: 14-17
"When you enter the land which the LORD your God gives you, and you possess it and live in it, and you say, 'I will set a king over me like all the nations who are around me,' 15you shall surely set a king over you whom the LORD your God chooses, one from among your countrymen you shall set as king over yourselves; you may not put a foreigner over yourselves who is not your countryman. 16"Moreover, he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor shall he cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, since the LORD has said to you, 'You shall never again return that way.' 17"He shall not multiply wives for himself, or else his heart will turn away; nor shall he greatly increase silver and gold for himself.
1 Kings 10:23-29
Solomon’s began to turn away from the obedience that God had called him to. These actions are in direct rebellion to God’s commands.
Can you imagine the level of temptation he faced?
Rock stars are tempted to do all kinds of things.
What about the temptations you face?
Does success (in any area) open the door for temptation?
What can we learn by studying Solomon’s life that will help us triumph over temptation?
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Solomon Week 2 -1 Kings 3-4
1 Kings 3:4-15 Solomon’s prayer and God’s answer
Solomon’s prayer for Wisdom
Think of the wisest person you know (no name) and tell us what makes you think they are wise.
1 Kings 3:4-15 Solomon’s prayer and God’s answer
V9 Why did Solomon ask for Wisdom?
What did God think about Solomon NOT asking for riches and honor?
Matthew 6:28-33 – Jesus is describing what our priority in prayer should be.
How does Jesus tell us to pray? With what priority?
What can we learn about how not to pray from both of these passages?
1 Kings 3:16-28 2 Prostitutes and 1 baby
In this case, was justice done?
What about the liar? Why wasn’t she punished?
Solomon’s wisdom required an investment of his time. If he had been unwilling to take time to hear this case, he would have missed the opportunity to demonstrate his wisdom.
What kind of investment is required of us to demonstrate wisdom? (time, emotion, effort, energy)
V12 (Solomon the wisest ever) We will not be as wise as Solomon, but with the wisdom we have, how can you and I demonstrate wisdom?
1) Get it from God
2) Put the priority on God’s kingdom
3) Invest in others
4) Face circumstances with compassion
Solomon’s prayer for Wisdom
Think of the wisest person you know (no name) and tell us what makes you think they are wise.
1 Kings 3:4-15 Solomon’s prayer and God’s answer
V9 Why did Solomon ask for Wisdom?
What did God think about Solomon NOT asking for riches and honor?
Matthew 6:28-33 – Jesus is describing what our priority in prayer should be.
How does Jesus tell us to pray? With what priority?
What can we learn about how not to pray from both of these passages?
1 Kings 3:16-28 2 Prostitutes and 1 baby
In this case, was justice done?
What about the liar? Why wasn’t she punished?
Solomon’s wisdom required an investment of his time. If he had been unwilling to take time to hear this case, he would have missed the opportunity to demonstrate his wisdom.
What kind of investment is required of us to demonstrate wisdom? (time, emotion, effort, energy)
V12 (Solomon the wisest ever) We will not be as wise as Solomon, but with the wisdom we have, how can you and I demonstrate wisdom?
1) Get it from God
2) Put the priority on God’s kingdom
3) Invest in others
4) Face circumstances with compassion
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Solomon Week 1 - 1 Kings 1-2
Solomon Introduction
1 Kings 1-11, 2nd Chronicles 1 -9, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon
David’s second son by Bathsheba, 3rd King of Israel
Solomon is a dichotomy in Wisdom and foolishness, Godliness and Self satisfaction, Power and Weakness
Themes:
Priorities in Prayer
Priorities in personal decisions
Knowing truth vs. acting on truth
God’s promises fulfilled
Integrity
Solomon’s ascent to the throne 1 Kings 1:24-31
Bathsheba (in the previous verses) had just told David the same thing.
David kept his vow by placing Solomon on the throne.
Adonijah had attempted to take over the throne.
Are there aspects of Solomon’s ascension that seem ungodly?
Solomon was the eventual fruit of David’s worst moral failure. Have you seen other situations where God uses man’s failures as part of His plan?
In God’s sovereignty, He can take any situation and bring glory to Himself.
David’s Charge 1 Kings 2:1-4
How would you feel if you knew that the fulfillment of God’s promise to someone else depended on your actions?
Is it possible to pass a pure heart from one generation to another?
What can we pass along?
What influence did David have on Solomon?
1 Kings 1-11, 2nd Chronicles 1 -9, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon
David’s second son by Bathsheba, 3rd King of Israel
Solomon is a dichotomy in Wisdom and foolishness, Godliness and Self satisfaction, Power and Weakness
Themes:
Priorities in Prayer
Priorities in personal decisions
Knowing truth vs. acting on truth
God’s promises fulfilled
Integrity
Solomon’s ascent to the throne 1 Kings 1:24-31
Bathsheba (in the previous verses) had just told David the same thing.
David kept his vow by placing Solomon on the throne.
Adonijah had attempted to take over the throne.
Are there aspects of Solomon’s ascension that seem ungodly?
Solomon was the eventual fruit of David’s worst moral failure. Have you seen other situations where God uses man’s failures as part of His plan?
In God’s sovereignty, He can take any situation and bring glory to Himself.
David’s Charge 1 Kings 2:1-4
How would you feel if you knew that the fulfillment of God’s promise to someone else depended on your actions?
Is it possible to pass a pure heart from one generation to another?
What can we pass along?
What influence did David have on Solomon?
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