Monday, September 1, 2014
Jer 22:1-9
1 Thus saith the LORD; Go down to the house of the king of Judah, and speak there this word,
2 And say, Hear the word of the LORD, O king of Judah, that sittest upon the throne of David, thou, and thy servants, and thy people that enter in by these gates:
3 Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.
4 For if ye do this thing indeed, then shall there enter in by the gates of this house kings sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, he, and his servants, and his people.
5 But if ye will not hear these words, I swear by myself, saith the LORD, that this house shall become a desolation.
6 For thus saith the LORD unto the king's house of Judah; Thou [art] Gilead unto me, [and] the head of Lebanon: [yet] surely I will make thee a wilderness, [and] cities [which] are not inhabited.
7 And I will prepare destroyers against thee, every one with his weapons: and they shall cut down thy choice cedars, and cast [them] into the fire.
8 And many nations shall pass by this city, and they shall say every man to his neighbour, Wherefore hath the LORD done thus unto this great city?
9 Then they shall answer, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God, and worshipped other gods, and served them.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did the Lord tell the Prophet Jeremiah to do? (v.1)
2) Who did the Lord address His message to? (v.2)
3) What was the Lord's five-part message to His people? (v.3)
4) What would happen if the hearers were obedient to the Word of the Lord? (v.4)
5) What would happen if the people did not obey His word? (v.5)
6) Despite the Lord's love for Judah, what did He say would happen if they rebelled? (v.6-7)
7) How would neighboring nations explain Judah's calamity? (v.8-9)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
8) Have you ever experienced the chastening of the Lord? If so, please decribe what happened?
9) Were any of your brothers and/or sisters aware that you were being chastened? If so, please explain how.
10) If you responded affirmatively to either of the last two questions, what did you do to be restored to God?
PRINCIPLES
11) The Lord always warns His children before chastening us.
12) Just as any parent would, the Lord expects obedience from His children.
13) Though chastening can be painful, it is the proof of God's love for us.
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Friday, August 29, 2014
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
Saturday, August 30. 2014
2 Corinthians 9:7-15
7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
8 And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work:
9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.
10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for [your] food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
12 For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;
13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];
14 And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.
15 Thanks [be] unto God for his unspeakable gift.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What are the two ways that God wants us to give? (v.7)
2) What are the two ways that God does NOT want us to give? (v.7)
3) Who provides all that we need materially and why? (v.8)
4) Who do the righteous give to and why? (v.9)
5) In what four ways does God provide for givers? (v.10)
6) What causes us to be thankful to God? (v.11)
7) Who is blessed when the righteous give and how? (v.12)
8) In what ways should our obedience, in the area of giving, affect those we give to? (v.13-15)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
9) Is it difficult, or easy, for you to give? Please explain.
10) When you give who determines what you give and how much you give?
11) Generally speaking, what is your motivation for giving your time, talent, and/or treasure?
PRINCIPLES
12) God enables us to give what He has purposed for us to give.
13) The Lord blesses those who give in faith.
14) A gift can only bless those whom God purposes to receive it.
2 Corinthians 9:7-15
7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
8 And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work:
9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.
10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for [your] food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
12 For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;
13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];
14 And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.
15 Thanks [be] unto God for his unspeakable gift.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What are the two ways that God wants us to give? (v.7)
2) What are the two ways that God does NOT want us to give? (v.7)
3) Who provides all that we need materially and why? (v.8)
4) Who do the righteous give to and why? (v.9)
5) In what four ways does God provide for givers? (v.10)
6) What causes us to be thankful to God? (v.11)
7) Who is blessed when the righteous give and how? (v.12)
8) In what ways should our obedience, in the area of giving, affect those we give to? (v.13-15)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
9) Is it difficult, or easy, for you to give? Please explain.
10) When you give who determines what you give and how much you give?
11) Generally speaking, what is your motivation for giving your time, talent, and/or treasure?
PRINCIPLES
12) God enables us to give what He has purposed for us to give.
13) The Lord blesses those who give in faith.
14) A gift can only bless those whom God purposes to receive it.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Sowing and Reaping Bountifully
Friday, August 29, 2014
2 Corinthians 9:1-6
1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: 2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. 3 Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:
4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.
5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as [a matter of] bounty, and not as [of] covetousness.
6 But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What "ministry to the saints" was the Apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians about? (see previous lesson on 2 Corinthians 8).
2) What had the Apostle Paul boasted about concerning the church at Corinth? (v.2)
3) Why did the Apostle Paul send certain brethren to collect from the Corinthians? (v.3)
4) Who would be ashamed if the offering was not prepared? Why? (v.4)
5) How did Paul expect the gift to be given? Why? (v.5-6)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever considered your giving of tithes and offerings to the church to be a ministry? Why, or why not?
7) Have you ever given lavishly to the work of the Lord? If so, please explain how the Lord blessed you for doing so.
8) Have you ever harbored resentment toward, or refused to give to, a ministry or church fund raising activity? If so, please explain why.
PRINCIPLES
9) Giving is what God does because He loves. He expects His people to do the same.
10) Our giving must be done with cheerfulness of heart, not because we feel compelled to give.
11) No Christian can give more lavishly than the Lord has given to His people.
2 Corinthians 9:1-6
1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: 2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. 3 Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:
4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.
5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as [a matter of] bounty, and not as [of] covetousness.
6 But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What "ministry to the saints" was the Apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians about? (see previous lesson on 2 Corinthians 8).
2) What had the Apostle Paul boasted about concerning the church at Corinth? (v.2)
3) Why did the Apostle Paul send certain brethren to collect from the Corinthians? (v.3)
4) Who would be ashamed if the offering was not prepared? Why? (v.4)
5) How did Paul expect the gift to be given? Why? (v.5-6)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever considered your giving of tithes and offerings to the church to be a ministry? Why, or why not?
7) Have you ever given lavishly to the work of the Lord? If so, please explain how the Lord blessed you for doing so.
8) Have you ever harbored resentment toward, or refused to give to, a ministry or church fund raising activity? If so, please explain why.
PRINCIPLES
9) Giving is what God does because He loves. He expects His people to do the same.
10) Our giving must be done with cheerfulness of heart, not because we feel compelled to give.
11) No Christian can give more lavishly than the Lord has given to His people.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Show Proof of your Love
Thursday, August 28, 2014
2 Corinthians 8:16-24
16 But thanks [be] to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.
18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise [is] in the gospel throughout all the churches;
19 And not [that] only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and [declaration of] your ready mind:
20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:
21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which [I have] in you.
23 Whether [any do enquire] of Titus, [he is] my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren [be enquired of, they are] the messengers of the churches, [and] the glory of Christ.
24 Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What is the Apostle Paul thanking God for in these verses? (v.16-17)
2) Who went with Titus to the Church at Corinth? (v.18a)
3) What was this person who was chosen by the churches to accompany Titus like? (v.18b)
4) Who else was he chosen to accompany as they took an offering to Jerusalem? (v.19)
5) What did the Apostle Paul and his traveling companions attempt to avoid, and to provide, as they delivered the offering to Christians in Jerusalem? (v.20-21)
6) What was the second brother like who accompanied the apostles to Jerusalem? (v.22)
7) How was the church at Corinth to respond if asked about Titus or the brothers who went to Jerusalem with the Apostle Paul? (v.23)
8) What would their response to the churches, concerning their brethren, prove? (v.24)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
9) Have you ever been responsible for collecting and delivering a large sum of money to another believer, church, or ministry outside your own local church? If so, what if anything did you do to ensure that what you did was not called into question?
10) When placed in a position that could potentially tempt, or cause, you to sin what safeguards have (would) you put in place to "avoid the very appearance of evil"?
11) When dealing with sensitive issues, that could cast dispersion on you, or your church, what type of people would (do) you surround yourself with?
PRINCIPLES
12) Bad company corrupts good morals.
13) God is glorified when His people handle His business in ways that are above reproach.
14) Our love for the Lord is proven through our conduct, our conversation, and our character.
2 Corinthians 8:16-24
16 But thanks [be] to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.
18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise [is] in the gospel throughout all the churches;
19 And not [that] only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and [declaration of] your ready mind:
20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:
21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which [I have] in you.
23 Whether [any do enquire] of Titus, [he is] my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren [be enquired of, they are] the messengers of the churches, [and] the glory of Christ.
24 Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What is the Apostle Paul thanking God for in these verses? (v.16-17)
2) Who went with Titus to the Church at Corinth? (v.18a)
3) What was this person who was chosen by the churches to accompany Titus like? (v.18b)
4) Who else was he chosen to accompany as they took an offering to Jerusalem? (v.19)
5) What did the Apostle Paul and his traveling companions attempt to avoid, and to provide, as they delivered the offering to Christians in Jerusalem? (v.20-21)
6) What was the second brother like who accompanied the apostles to Jerusalem? (v.22)
7) How was the church at Corinth to respond if asked about Titus or the brothers who went to Jerusalem with the Apostle Paul? (v.23)
8) What would their response to the churches, concerning their brethren, prove? (v.24)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
9) Have you ever been responsible for collecting and delivering a large sum of money to another believer, church, or ministry outside your own local church? If so, what if anything did you do to ensure that what you did was not called into question?
10) When placed in a position that could potentially tempt, or cause, you to sin what safeguards have (would) you put in place to "avoid the very appearance of evil"?
11) When dealing with sensitive issues, that could cast dispersion on you, or your church, what type of people would (do) you surround yourself with?
PRINCIPLES
12) Bad company corrupts good morals.
13) God is glorified when His people handle His business in ways that are above reproach.
14) Our love for the Lord is proven through our conduct, our conversation, and our character.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Giving in Love
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
1Co 13:1-7
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
2 And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed [the poor], and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
4 Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What are we like when we speak with angelic tongues but do not have charity (love)? (v.1)
2) What are we if we have the gifts of prophecy, divine knowledge and faith, but do not have charity (love)? (v.2)
3) What do we gain if we give all we have to the poor, or give our bodies to be burned, but do not have charity (love)? (v.4)
4) What are some of the attributes of divine charity (love)? (v.4-7)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) Has the Lord blessed you with any of the spiritual gifts addressed in this Scripture? If so, which please list your spiritual gifts.
6) How do you know if you have the spiritual fruit of charity (love)?
7) Have you ever manifested that spiritual fruit to other people? If so, please describe one such instance.
PRINCIPLES
8) All that we do for Christ is in vain if not done in the spirit of love.
9) God is love and His children should love as He does.
10) The proof of our love is not what we do for Christ, but who He is through us.
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
2 And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed [the poor], and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
4 Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What are we like when we speak with angelic tongues but do not have charity (love)? (v.1)
2) What are we if we have the gifts of prophecy, divine knowledge and faith, but do not have charity (love)? (v.2)
3) What do we gain if we give all we have to the poor, or give our bodies to be burned, but do not have charity (love)? (v.4)
4) What are some of the attributes of divine charity (love)? (v.4-7)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) Has the Lord blessed you with any of the spiritual gifts addressed in this Scripture? If so, which please list your spiritual gifts.
6) How do you know if you have the spiritual fruit of charity (love)?
7) Have you ever manifested that spiritual fruit to other people? If so, please describe one such instance.
PRINCIPLES
8) All that we do for Christ is in vain if not done in the spirit of love.
9) God is love and His children should love as He does.
10) The proof of our love is not what we do for Christ, but who He is through us.
Monday, August 25, 2014
The Measure of your Gift
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Luke 6:34-38
34 And if ye lend [to them] of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.
36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What should we hope for when we give to others? (v.34)
2) Whom should we give to, love, and be kind to? Why? (v.35)
3) Whom should we show mercy towards? Why? (v.36)
4) Why shouldn't we judge or condemn others? Why should we forgive? (v.37)
5) Why and how should we give? (v.38)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever given to someone in need without expecting to be repaid? If so, what happened?
7) When have you ever demonstrated divine love for someone you did not care for or for someone who wronged you? Please describe one such instance.
8) When you give to others, do you ever consider whether they are deserving of your gift, or not? Please describe a time when you gave to someone whom you judged to be undeserving of your gift. What happened as a result of your giving.
PRINCIPLES
9) God expects us to give to anyone in need.
10) We give with our time, treasure and/or talent.
11) God requires us to give whether the recipient deserves what we give, or not.
12) We will always reap what we sow and with the same measure that we sow.
Luke 6:34-38
34 And if ye lend [to them] of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.
36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What should we hope for when we give to others? (v.34)
2) Whom should we give to, love, and be kind to? Why? (v.35)
3) Whom should we show mercy towards? Why? (v.36)
4) Why shouldn't we judge or condemn others? Why should we forgive? (v.37)
5) Why and how should we give? (v.38)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever given to someone in need without expecting to be repaid? If so, what happened?
7) When have you ever demonstrated divine love for someone you did not care for or for someone who wronged you? Please describe one such instance.
8) When you give to others, do you ever consider whether they are deserving of your gift, or not? Please describe a time when you gave to someone whom you judged to be undeserving of your gift. What happened as a result of your giving.
PRINCIPLES
9) God expects us to give to anyone in need.
10) We give with our time, treasure and/or talent.
11) God requires us to give whether the recipient deserves what we give, or not.
12) We will always reap what we sow and with the same measure that we sow.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Treasure in Heaven
Monday, August 25, 2014
Mark 10:17-27
17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? [there is] none good but one, [that is], God.
19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?
27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men [it is] impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did the man want who ran to and kneeled at Jesus' feet? (v.17)
2) How did Jesus initially respond to him? (v.18)
3) What was the Lord's next response to the man's question? (v.19)
4) How did the man respond to Jesus? (v.20)
5) What was Jesus' final response to the man? (v.21)
6) What did the man do in response? (v.22)
7) What did Jesus tell His disciples? (v.23)
8) How did His disciples respond? (v.24a)
9) Why do you think the Lord restate His comment concerning the rich? (v.24b-25)
10) How did the disciples respond after Jesus made his statement about the rich the third time? (v.26)
11) What did Jesus say about God and why do you think He said it? (v.27)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
12) Has the Lord ever asked you to do anything that you believed was too difficult for you? If so, please explain one such instance.
13) What, if anything, have you cherished more than your relationship with the Lord?
14) Has the Lord ever asked you to forsake (or give up) something that was dear to you? If so, please explain.
PRINCIPLES
15) Our alffections will remain with whatever, or whoever, we value most in life.
16) Our relationship with Christ must be preeminent over every other earthly affection.
17) The Lord does not ask us to do anything that He will not also give us His grace to do.
Mark 10:17-27
17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? [there is] none good but one, [that is], God.
19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?
27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men [it is] impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did the man want who ran to and kneeled at Jesus' feet? (v.17)
2) How did Jesus initially respond to him? (v.18)
3) What was the Lord's next response to the man's question? (v.19)
4) How did the man respond to Jesus? (v.20)
5) What was Jesus' final response to the man? (v.21)
6) What did the man do in response? (v.22)
7) What did Jesus tell His disciples? (v.23)
8) How did His disciples respond? (v.24a)
9) Why do you think the Lord restate His comment concerning the rich? (v.24b-25)
10) How did the disciples respond after Jesus made his statement about the rich the third time? (v.26)
11) What did Jesus say about God and why do you think He said it? (v.27)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
12) Has the Lord ever asked you to do anything that you believed was too difficult for you? If so, please explain one such instance.
13) What, if anything, have you cherished more than your relationship with the Lord?
14) Has the Lord ever asked you to forsake (or give up) something that was dear to you? If so, please explain.
PRINCIPLES
15) Our alffections will remain with whatever, or whoever, we value most in life.
16) Our relationship with Christ must be preeminent over every other earthly affection.
17) The Lord does not ask us to do anything that He will not also give us His grace to do.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Open Wide your Hearts
Sunday, August 24, 2014
2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 7:2-4
1 We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.)
3 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4 But in all [things] approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
5 In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;
6 By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and [yet] true; 9 As unknown, and [yet] well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.
11 O [ye] Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13 Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto [my] children,) be ye also enlarged.
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
3 I speak not [this] to condemn [you]: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with [you].
4 Great [is] my boldness of speech toward you, great [is] my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What was the Apostle Paul asking the church at Corinth to do and why? (v.1)
2) What had God said through the prophet Isaiah (see Isaiah 49:8)? (v.2)
3) How did the Apostle Paul, and his colleagues, conduct themselves and why? (v.3)
4) How did the apostle, and other disciples of Christ, show that they were true ministers? (V.4-10)
2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 7:2-4
1 We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.)
3 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4 But in all [things] approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
5 In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;
6 By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and [yet] true; 9 As unknown, and [yet] well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.
11 O [ye] Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13 Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto [my] children,) be ye also enlarged.
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
3 I speak not [this] to condemn [you]: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with [you].
4 Great [is] my boldness of speech toward you, great [is] my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What was the Apostle Paul asking the church at Corinth to do and why? (v.1)
2) What had God said through the prophet Isaiah (see Isaiah 49:8)? (v.2)
3) How did the Apostle Paul, and his colleagues, conduct themselves and why? (v.3)
4) How did the apostle, and other disciples of Christ, show that they were true ministers? (V.4-10)
5) Please list at least four (4) specific ministerial traits that the apostle wrote about (v.4-10).
6) What happened to the hearts of the apostles as they ministered to the church at Corinth? (v.11)
7) What was Apostle Paul asking the Corinthians to do and why? (v.12-13)
8) What else was the apostle asking of the Corinthians and why? (v.2)
9) What did the apostle say that he was not doing and why? (v.3)
10) Why was the Apostle Paul comforted by the Corinthians and joyful despite his trials? (v.4)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
10) How do you typically conduct yourself around those who are less spiritually mature than you, and/or those whom you disciple?
11) Have you ever discipled a younger brother, or sister, in the Lord? If so, please describe your heart attitude toward a younger disciple of Christ.
12) Have your efforts at discipling younger believers always been well received or honored? If not, please describe one such incident and what you did to correct the situation.
PRINCIPLES
13) To make disciples we must first become disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
14) Despite our personal trials, the Lord expects His ministers to disciple to the young in faith.
15) It is impossible to disciple a young believer and not possess the love of Christ for them.
6) What happened to the hearts of the apostles as they ministered to the church at Corinth? (v.11)
7) What was Apostle Paul asking the Corinthians to do and why? (v.12-13)
8) What else was the apostle asking of the Corinthians and why? (v.2)
9) What did the apostle say that he was not doing and why? (v.3)
10) Why was the Apostle Paul comforted by the Corinthians and joyful despite his trials? (v.4)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
10) How do you typically conduct yourself around those who are less spiritually mature than you, and/or those whom you disciple?
11) Have you ever discipled a younger brother, or sister, in the Lord? If so, please describe your heart attitude toward a younger disciple of Christ.
12) Have your efforts at discipling younger believers always been well received or honored? If not, please describe one such incident and what you did to correct the situation.
PRINCIPLES
13) To make disciples we must first become disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
14) Despite our personal trials, the Lord expects His ministers to disciple to the young in faith.
15) It is impossible to disciple a young believer and not possess the love of Christ for them.
Friday, August 22, 2014
First Be Reconciled
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Matthew 5:21-26
21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What was one of God's commandments to His people and why? (v.21)
2) According to Jesus, what is wrong and why? (v.22)
3) What did Jesus tell His disciples to do to escape condemnation for their sin? (v.23-24)
4) What did our Lord say would happen if we do not agree with those we have offended? (v.25-26)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) What do you typically do when you have offended a brother, or sister, in Christ?
6) Have you ever refused to be reconciled with an offended brother, or sister, in the Lord? If so, describe what happened.
7) Have you ever asked forgiveness from an offended brother, or sister, in Christ? If so, describe how you felt.
PRINCIPLES
8) Unforgiveness is the bait of Satan because it leads to further condemnation.
9) Offense destroys relationship with God and man.
10) Seek peace with all people, at all costs, even if the offended person refuses to forgive you.
Matthew 5:21-26
21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What was one of God's commandments to His people and why? (v.21)
2) According to Jesus, what is wrong and why? (v.22)
3) What did Jesus tell His disciples to do to escape condemnation for their sin? (v.23-24)
4) What did our Lord say would happen if we do not agree with those we have offended? (v.25-26)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) What do you typically do when you have offended a brother, or sister, in Christ?
6) Have you ever refused to be reconciled with an offended brother, or sister, in the Lord? If so, describe what happened.
7) Have you ever asked forgiveness from an offended brother, or sister, in Christ? If so, describe how you felt.
PRINCIPLES
8) Unforgiveness is the bait of Satan because it leads to further condemnation.
9) Offense destroys relationship with God and man.
10) Seek peace with all people, at all costs, even if the offended person refuses to forgive you.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
A Harvest of Righteousness
Friday, August 22, 2014
James 3:13-18
13 Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, devilish.
16 For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.
17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace
James 3:13-18
13 Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, devilish.
16 For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.
17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does an individual demonstrate their wisdom and knowledge? (v.13)
2) Where does bitterness, envy and strife come from? (v.14-15)
3) What happens when these attitudes of heart are present? (v.16)
4) What are the characteristics of divine wisdom? (v.17)
5) What is planted by peacemakers? (v.18)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever sought the Lord's wisdom concerning a difficult situation? Please desribe what happened.
7) Have you ever been bitter, unforgiving, or envious toward another brother or sister in Christ? If so, what happened as a result of your attitude of heart?
8) Have you ever sought the Lord's forgiveness for harboring negative feelings toward a brother or sister in the Lord? If so, please describe what happened in your relationship with the individual(s).
PRINCIPLES
9) God is not the author of confusion. Confusion is a warning that the spirit of meekness is not present in a situation.
10) Divine wisdom is not present when the flesh is given free reign over our circumstances.
11) Those who are led by the Spirit of peace possess the wisdom of God.
1) How does an individual demonstrate their wisdom and knowledge? (v.13)
2) Where does bitterness, envy and strife come from? (v.14-15)
3) What happens when these attitudes of heart are present? (v.16)
4) What are the characteristics of divine wisdom? (v.17)
5) What is planted by peacemakers? (v.18)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever sought the Lord's wisdom concerning a difficult situation? Please desribe what happened.
7) Have you ever been bitter, unforgiving, or envious toward another brother or sister in Christ? If so, what happened as a result of your attitude of heart?
8) Have you ever sought the Lord's forgiveness for harboring negative feelings toward a brother or sister in the Lord? If so, please describe what happened in your relationship with the individual(s).
PRINCIPLES
9) God is not the author of confusion. Confusion is a warning that the spirit of meekness is not present in a situation.
10) Divine wisdom is not present when the flesh is given free reign over our circumstances.
11) Those who are led by the Spirit of peace possess the wisdom of God.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
The Ministry and Message of Reconcilation
Thursday, August 21, 2014
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [him] no more.
17 Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Who was the Apostle Paul referring to when he suggested that we no longer rely upon our our human reasoning or perspective to know them? (v.16)
2) Why is it important to disregard an individual's previous conduct in light of who they are in Christ? (v.17)
3) What has God given to every believer? (v.18)
4) What did God do for us, because of Christ's sacrifice, so that we could be reconciled to Him? (v.19)
5) What is God's appeal to others, through His people? (v.20)
6) How are we made the righteousness of God? (v.21)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) Has anyone ever questionned your salvation since you've been saved? If so, what happened and how did that make you feel?
8) What do you do to serve the Lord as His ambassador?
9) What put you in right standing (relationship) with God?
PRINCIPLES
10) When God reconciles us to Himself, He forgives all our sins.
11) Those who belong to Jesus are "new creations" in Christ.
12) We are made righteous by the blood of the sinless Lamb of God, not our good deeds.
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [him] no more.
17 Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Who was the Apostle Paul referring to when he suggested that we no longer rely upon our our human reasoning or perspective to know them? (v.16)
2) Why is it important to disregard an individual's previous conduct in light of who they are in Christ? (v.17)
3) What has God given to every believer? (v.18)
4) What did God do for us, because of Christ's sacrifice, so that we could be reconciled to Him? (v.19)
5) What is God's appeal to others, through His people? (v.20)
6) How are we made the righteousness of God? (v.21)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) Has anyone ever questionned your salvation since you've been saved? If so, what happened and how did that make you feel?
8) What do you do to serve the Lord as His ambassador?
9) What put you in right standing (relationship) with God?
PRINCIPLES
10) When God reconciles us to Himself, He forgives all our sins.
11) Those who belong to Jesus are "new creations" in Christ.
12) We are made righteous by the blood of the sinless Lamb of God, not our good deeds.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Making Peace through the Cross
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Col 1:15-23
15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.
19 For it pleased [the Father] that in him should all fulness dwell;
20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in [your] mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and [be] not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, [and] which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does the Apostle Paul describe our Lord Jesus in this epistle? (v.15)
2) What was created by Him and for Him? (v.16)
3) What is He before and by Him what consists (is sustained)? (v.17)
4) What is He the head of and over what does He have the preeminence? Why? (v.18)
5) Who is God pleased to dwell in? (v.19)
6) What did the shed blood of Jesus Christ do for creation? (v.20)
7) Who else was reconciled to God by the broken body and blood of Jesus? When? (v.21)
8) What makes us holy, blameless and above reproach in God's sight? (v.22)
9) What must Christians be grounded and settled in? (v.23
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
10) When were you alienated from God and an enemy of Christ?
11) What did you do formerly do that was against the Lord?
12) How do you respond knowing that Christ died to save you from the penalty for your sins?
13) What keeps you rooted in the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
PRINCIPLES
14) Jesus died to save those who rejected Him.
15) Jesus is above all that He created.
16) Keep your faith in Jesus, no matter what happens in life.
17) When God looks at us He sees His Son.
Col 1:15-23
15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.
19 For it pleased [the Father] that in him should all fulness dwell;
20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in [your] mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and [be] not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, [and] which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does the Apostle Paul describe our Lord Jesus in this epistle? (v.15)
2) What was created by Him and for Him? (v.16)
3) What is He before and by Him what consists (is sustained)? (v.17)
4) What is He the head of and over what does He have the preeminence? Why? (v.18)
5) Who is God pleased to dwell in? (v.19)
6) What did the shed blood of Jesus Christ do for creation? (v.20)
7) Who else was reconciled to God by the broken body and blood of Jesus? When? (v.21)
8) What makes us holy, blameless and above reproach in God's sight? (v.22)
9) What must Christians be grounded and settled in? (v.23
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
10) When were you alienated from God and an enemy of Christ?
11) What did you do formerly do that was against the Lord?
12) How do you respond knowing that Christ died to save you from the penalty for your sins?
13) What keeps you rooted in the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
PRINCIPLES
14) Jesus died to save those who rejected Him.
15) Jesus is above all that He created.
16) Keep your faith in Jesus, no matter what happens in life.
17) When God looks at us He sees His Son.
Monday, August 18, 2014
Reconciled to God through Christ
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Romans 5:6-11
6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
11 And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) When did Christ die for us? (v.6)
2) Why did Christ die for us? (v.7-8)
3) What justifies and saves us? (v.9)
4) When were we reconciled to God? (v.10)
5) What have we received as a result of Christ's sacrifice? (v.11)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Is there anyone in your life that you would willingly die to save from death? If so, who and why?
7) When were you saved from the penalty for your sins? How do you know?
8) How do you demonstrate your love for Jesus because of His sacrifice on the cross for your sins?
PRINCIPLES
9) The only way that we can be reconciled to God is through belief that Jesus died for our sins.
10) God loved us before we ever did anything to deserve His love.
11) Because Jesus bore God's wrath for our sins, we don't have to.
Romans 5:6-11
6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
11 And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) When did Christ die for us? (v.6)
2) Why did Christ die for us? (v.7-8)
3) What justifies and saves us? (v.9)
4) When were we reconciled to God? (v.10)
5) What have we received as a result of Christ's sacrifice? (v.11)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Is there anyone in your life that you would willingly die to save from death? If so, who and why?
7) When were you saved from the penalty for your sins? How do you know?
8) How do you demonstrate your love for Jesus because of His sacrifice on the cross for your sins?
PRINCIPLES
9) The only way that we can be reconciled to God is through belief that Jesus died for our sins.
10) God loved us before we ever did anything to deserve His love.
11) Because Jesus bore God's wrath for our sins, we don't have to.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
A Failed Attempt at Reconciliation
Monday, August 18, 2014
Act 7:23-28
23 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.
24 And seeing one [of them] suffer wrong, he defended [him], and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:
25 For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.
26 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?
27 But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?
28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did Moses want to do at forty years of age? (v.23)
2) What did Moses see and how did he respond? (v.24)
3) What did Moses presume about his brethren? Was his presumption right, or wrong? (v.25)
4) What happened the next day? (v.26)
5) What did the neighbor who wronged his brother say to Moses? (v.27)
6) What did he ask Moses? (v.28)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) Has the Lord ever given you a burden to help or encourage someone? If so, please describe one such instance.
8) Have you ever attempted to help someone, but your efforts were refused? If so, please describe what happened.
9) Have your motives for helping others ever been questionned? If so, what happened and how did you handle the situation?
PRINCIPLES
10) The Lord frequently burdens our hearts with that which will become our ministry.
11) Everyone will not understand your motives for doing good for others.
12) Our burden to minister often precedes our call to ministry.
Act 7:23-28
23 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.
24 And seeing one [of them] suffer wrong, he defended [him], and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:
25 For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.
26 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?
27 But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?
28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did Moses want to do at forty years of age? (v.23)
2) What did Moses see and how did he respond? (v.24)
3) What did Moses presume about his brethren? Was his presumption right, or wrong? (v.25)
4) What happened the next day? (v.26)
5) What did the neighbor who wronged his brother say to Moses? (v.27)
6) What did he ask Moses? (v.28)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) Has the Lord ever given you a burden to help or encourage someone? If so, please describe one such instance.
8) Have you ever attempted to help someone, but your efforts were refused? If so, please describe what happened.
9) Have your motives for helping others ever been questionned? If so, what happened and how did you handle the situation?
PRINCIPLES
10) The Lord frequently burdens our hearts with that which will become our ministry.
11) Everyone will not understand your motives for doing good for others.
12) Our burden to minister often precedes our call to ministry.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Daily Word IBS Translations
Did you know that The Daily Word IBS is available in nearly eighty (80) different languages? Simply click on the translate drop down box to the far right of the blog and voila! Whether you speak French, or Portuguese, Swahili, Yiddish, or Hindi, read today's lesson in your native language! Shalom!!
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord
Sunday, August 17, 2014
2 Corinthians 4:1-15
1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
8 [We are] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present [us] with you.
15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) As ministers of the Gospel, how are we to conduct ourselves? (v.1-2)
2) Who is not able to receive the Gospel? Why not? (v.3-4)
3) What are we to proclaim? (v.5)
4) What has God done for His servants and why? (v.6)
5) What is the treasure that is within every born-again believer? Where does the treasure come from? (v.7)
6) When is the life of Jesus manifested through us? (v.8-12)
7) Why do we endure hardships? (v.13-15)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
8) Do you tend to cave into despair or hopelessness when going through trials? Why, or why not?
9) How will you respond to hardships, in the future, in light of this passage of Scripture?
10) Why shouldn't we faint, or lose heart, when faced with difficulties in our lives?
PRINCIPLES
11) The minds of our unsaved loved ones are blinded to the truth of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
12) Though we are mortal, the resurrection power of God indwells every believer through the Holy Spirit.
13) To live for Christ we must die to self.
2 Corinthians 4:1-15
1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
8 [We are] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present [us] with you.
15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) As ministers of the Gospel, how are we to conduct ourselves? (v.1-2)
2) Who is not able to receive the Gospel? Why not? (v.3-4)
3) What are we to proclaim? (v.5)
4) What has God done for His servants and why? (v.6)
5) What is the treasure that is within every born-again believer? Where does the treasure come from? (v.7)
6) When is the life of Jesus manifested through us? (v.8-12)
7) Why do we endure hardships? (v.13-15)
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
8) Do you tend to cave into despair or hopelessness when going through trials? Why, or why not?
9) How will you respond to hardships, in the future, in light of this passage of Scripture?
10) Why shouldn't we faint, or lose heart, when faced with difficulties in our lives?
PRINCIPLES
11) The minds of our unsaved loved ones are blinded to the truth of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
12) Though we are mortal, the resurrection power of God indwells every believer through the Holy Spirit.
13) To live for Christ we must die to self.
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