1.       High School Grads:

2.      Your life journey will be an adventure if you walk with God.

3.      2 Timothy 3:14-17

I.       A God  (Psalm 19:1)

Christ’s relationship to the Universe – As God (Colossians 1:16-17)

Think about what it means to be Creator of the Universe.

II.    THE God

Will Rogers said, “You can summarize American History into two great movements: the passing of the Buffalo and The passing of the buck.”

Things written aforetime were for our learning

•         The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc. – Exodus 3; 4; 1 Kings 18:36; Acts 3:13;
•         The God of Israel – 1 Kings 8:22-26

III.  MY God

A.     Christ’s relationship to You (Colossians 1:21-23)

God came to earth in order to reconcile all of us to himself by means of the cross.

Jesus paid the full price. He offers you a gift of salvation.

B.     Ruth (1:16) —

C.     David – 2 Samuel 22:1-3

D.     Thomas – John 20:27-29

E.     Yeshua (Jesus) – Psalm 22

IV.  OUR God

No believer is complete by himself, we are to minister to one another, as a family. (Source unknown).

A.     There are no loners as disciples of Yeshua (Jesus)

B.     We are a community of believers – Matthew 16.18; Acts 2.42-47

C.     We don’t go it alone – F-S-HS + community of faith

John Adams said, “There are two types of education: One should teach us how to make a living, and the other how to live.”

Are you a 1 mile worker or a 2 mile worker? Do you do only the bare minimum or do you go the 2nd mile and leave the mark of excellence on your work? People always remember second-mile-worker.

Aren’t you glad God went the second mile for you?

May I confess one of my many flaws to you? I like to learn about things in the Bible. Sounds harmless, right? Here is the flaw – I often like to learn to the exclusion of DOING. You might say that I am “educated above my level of obedience.” I KNOW more than I PRACTICE.

We certainly need to study the words of God. These words can help us avoid difficulties. There are numerous passages that remind us of this. Ezra 7:10 reads, “For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.” Note the progression – learning – doing – teaching.

One of the traps we may fall into is thinking that if we just know enough we will avoid having to deal with the issues in real life. Whatever the temptation may be, whether it is the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, or the pride of life, it is not always handled with mere understanding. There are times when we must face the temptation head on, and with the knowledge we have gained from the biblical text, defeat it.

A football team prepares for a game by watching their opponents game films. They learn what they must do to defeat them. Then, they must go out on the field and DO what they know. They have to get into the game.

Are you tempted to know and not do? Join with me as we learn the words of God and seize the opportunities to do them.

“If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” John 13.17

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

South Yukon Church of Christ

Please share your response to one of the following:

• Tell the Group of a significant accomplishment in your life?
• What is one thing that gives you satisfaction?
• What is one thing you are good at? How did you get that skill?

Study

Read the following verses and share your responses to the questions below:

Psalm 19.1-6

• In what ways has creation reminded you of the presence of the Creator?

Colossians 1.16-17

• With these verses in mind, what image of Jesus do you have?
• Knowing that the universe is so immense, what does that say about our God (Jesus)?

1 Kings 8.22-26

• In what ways do you see God as being “unique”?

2 Samuel 22.1-3

• How is God your: rock; fortress; deliverer; shield; horn of falvation; stronghold?

John 20.27-29

• Why do you think Thomas wanted to touch Jesus’ nail prints and side?
• When he encountered Jesus, why do you think he used the word, “MY” in his expression?

Deuteronomy 6.4

• Why is it important to remember that God is OUR God, not just A God; The God; or My God?

Apply

• How has your view of God changed over the years?
• Which attribute(s) of God are most appealing to you now?
• Why do you think understanding the history of a culture (such as Israel) is helpful to the present? To the future?
• What does it take to grasp an understanding of who God is and what he wants us to do?

1.      Part of a daily Jewish Prayer (by men):

“Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the Universe, for not having made me a Gentile.”

“Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the Universe, for not having made me a slave.”

“Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the Universe, for not having made me a woman.”

2.      Women had a big teaching/serving role at home:

My mom taught me so many things, like…

*Spiritual habits – “You’d better pray that comes out of the carpet.”

*How to appreciate a job well done – “If you and your brothers are going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.”

*Logic – “Because I said so, that’s why!”

*More logic – “If you fall out of that tree and break your neck, you won’t be going to the mall with me.”

*Justice – “One day you’ll have kids and I hope they turn out just like you!”

3.      Think of how often in scripture it is the woman who is the vehicle for ministry.

•          Who prompted Jesus to perform His first miracle? A Woman!
•          Who ministered to Christ during His public ministry? The women!
•          Who anointed the body of Jesus? The women!
•          Who stayed with Jesus throughout his trial and crucifixion? The women!
•          Who were the first witnesses to the resurrected Savior? The women!
•          Who makes up the majority of the population of most churches today? The women!

4.      In the final chapter of Romans, Paul sends greetings to numerous people in Rome. Among those are at least 6 women (depending upon translating the names) – Note from Romans 16:1-16

I.       God’s Esteem for People

A.     Dignity Through Design

1.       Created in the Image of God – Genesis 1:27; Matthew 19:4
2.       Created Male and Female

B.     Dignity Through Demonstration

1.       God’s Love for Us – Romans 5:8
2.       Our Love for Him
3.       Our Love for One Another

II.    Jesus’ Regard for Women

A.     Yeshua (Jesus) is Inclusive by Nature

1.       He did not come to exclude but to save – Luke 19:10
2.       This included men and wome

B.     Yeshua (Jesus) Honors Women:

1.       He Addressed Women in Public

a.   Unusual – “Bleeding Shoulder Pharisees” covered their eyes so they would not lust after women and ran into walls

b.   Samaritan Woman – John 4

c.   Woman in Adultery – John 8

d.   Widow of Nain – Luke 7

e.   Woman with Issue of Blood – Luke 8

f.    Included women as part of his teaching –

• Queen of the South – Matthew 12:42

• Woman Leavening the Loaf – Matthew 13:33
• Woman with Lost Coin – Luke 15

4.      He Held Women Accountable for their Sins

•         Level of equality with men – no excusing
•         Samaritan Woman – Not your Husband
•          Woman in Adultery – Sin no more

5.      He Ministered TO Women

• Healed Peter’s Mother-in-Law – Matthew 8:14-15
• Raised the Widow’s Son and gave him back to her (Luke 7)
• Jairus’ Daughter – Luke 8
• Mary and Martha at Lazarus’ Tomb – John 11

6.      He Received Ministry FROM Women

• Financial Support – Luke 8:1-3
• Anointing His Feet – Luke 7
• Anointing His Head – Mark 14

III. Paul’s Respect for Women

[Rabbi-Disciple Relationship

Paul has a bad rap – not a male chauvinist – Romans 16.1-16

A.     Phoebe (Single Lady?) – 16:1-2

B.     Priscilla (Wife) – Teacher – 16:3-5

C.     Rufus’ Mother (a Mom) – 16:13

Simon of Cyrene had two sons, Alexander and Rufus (Mark 15:21) – this may have been the wife of the man who carried the cross of Yeshua (Jesus)

[When my mom was looking for a car after my dad died, we went to my friend, Ken Pence, who was the Sales Manager at a Lincoln-Mercury dealer in Jacksonville, FL. I was not asking him for any ‘extra-special’ deal, just to treat my mom fairly. He said, “I will treat your mom as if she was my mom.”

Mothers in Yeshua (Jesus) – Matthew 10:29-30

Conclusion

Robert Fulton and Napoleon

Applications

1.       Acknowledge and build relationships with co-laborers in Christ – Male and Female
2.       Women – Do not forget your place – YOU ARE KEY SERVANTS OF YESHUA (JESUS)
3.       Men – Serve and fan the flame for our ladies to excel in Ministry
4.       Remember, we are not a faceless sea of people but a community of individuals making up the body of Christ, each in his or her own place
5.       Whenever we experience a lack of appreciation, remember, God sees and rewards.

The Bible repeatedly reminds us to HEAR. Jesus often stated, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” The greatest commandment begins with the word “Hear” (see Deuteronomy 6.4 and Mark 12.28ff).

In the bible, “hearing” not only includes the reception of the sound waves in our ears, but comprehension of what is stated followed by action. Biblical hearing is actually obeying what is spoken. So, when God says to hear that we are to love him with all of our hearts, souls, and might, he means we are to put it into action.

It is no accident that we live in a world full of diversions. How many things each day divert you from the mission of loving God whole-heartedly? Think of the numerous distractions that come from television, just to name one avenue. There are shows we just “can’t miss” each week. Often we spend hours mindlessly viewing – what? Mostly nothing. Our lives are not really enriched by it; we have merely been sidetracked from a higher calling.

Today hear his voice (see Hebrews 3; Psalm 95). Comprehend God by listening to his word (taking the time to read it). Then put it into action in real life. That’s “hearing God.”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

2.      A similar situation occurred for the Jews returning from Babylonian Captivity in the 6^th Century BC

a.       Zerubbabel and about 50K refugees returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls; restore the temple; the priesthood; the religion of the Jewish people

b.      They laid the foundation for the temple, met obstacles and stopped building for about 16 years

c.       God raised up the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, to stir the hearts of the people to resume the building.

d.      They did their jobs, focusing on the work, not the obstacles.

3.      Zechariah 4:1-10

I.                   The Presence of Overwhelming Obstacles

“If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere.”

Everything worthwhile has some obstacle. Note some things that confronted the Jewish Builders:

A.     Obstacle #1 – Confusion

1.      Confusion about God’s Revelation – Zechariah did not understand what he saw

a.       Ethiopian (Acts

b.      Our Prayers – “God, what do you want?”

2.      Confusion about THEIR MISSION

a.       Sidetracked with selfish interests (Haggai 1 – wages/houses)

b.      They forgot their mission –Do we?

George Shultz, Story: “Where’s your country?”

B.     Obstacle #2 – Limited Abilities (4:10)

¹⁰ For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.

1.      Their BIG task required: Money; Labor (time & Energy); Sacrificial Leadership; Determined Following; Unity of Purpose

So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. Nehemiah 4:6

2.      We do, too – How will we proceed?

C.     Obstacle #3 – A Persistent Enemy

1.      Heathen/Samaritans of the Land

2.      Satan – Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5.8

Enemies of God – Voltaire

II.                The Power to Overcome the Obstacles (4:6)

Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.

A.     Power Is Not:

1.      Our Numbers –

a.       What would happen if we did not count attendance?

b.      Extremes: Small Churches feel Inadequate; Large Churches feel overconfident

2.      Our Wealth

a.       It is God’s – Haggai 2:8

‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty.

b.      It is useless

 Titanic Story

3.      Our Abilities – God uses ‘earthen vessels’ to do his work – dependent on HIS abilities

B.     Power IS – God’s Spirit Hebrews 13:20-21

1.      God’s Ability (Ephesians 3.:0-21) – immeasurably more than we ask or think

2.      Trust in selves – We lose – we rise no higher than our level of incompetence

3.      God is present to lead us by his Spirit – Romans 8:14 

HS and Dove –

1.      Zerubbabel did finish his task. The second temple was completed.

2.      This was not an ending, it was a beginning of a new era in the history of Israel. [Graduations

3.       We are not so different today. We must overcome the negativity we are fed on every level.

4.      Overwhelming Obstacles are present; power to overcome is there as well.

Please discuss with your Group your response to one of the following:

• What are you like when awakened from a deep sleep?
• What project do you most want to complete (home or work)? What will it take to finish it?

Study

Please read Zechariah 4.1-10 and share your responses to the following:

• What do the symbols of the vision represent? (vv. 3, 14; Revelation 11.3-4)

• Golden Lampstand
• Bowl of Oil
• Olive Trees
• Capstone
• Plumb Line

Apply

• Why do you think our strength cannot be in our numbers or our money?
• How hard is it for you to trust in the intangible (God) over the tangible (our church’s size; our finances)?
• What is the correlation between our trials and our dependence on God?
• What are some ways you can definitely say God has directed your steps? What did you accomplish when He did?
• In what ways was the rebuilding of the temple a beginning, not an end?

That may have brought a grin to your face. It probably also brought a grimace. The sad truth is many (not all) politicians don’t care about truth, the Constitution, or principles of character.

I can criticize corrupt politicians. So far, along with you, I have the right to assemble and to speak freely, even if our politicians don’t like it. This is the major check and balance that the Founding Fathers understood.

Here is the bigger problem. The leaders we select are a mirror of our culture. They are really our REPRESENTATIVES. If we are a godly people, we will elect godly leaders. If we are ungodly and corrupt. . . .

God said:

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34 (ESV)

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” Proverbs 29.2 (KJV)

Part of the solution to political corruption is to be a nation with godly character. This can only occur one person at a time. If you and I determine to be better people, by the grace of God we will become a nation who walks closely to the words of God. We, in turn, elect leaders who lead by principle, not by “pork.”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please discuss your responses to one of the following:

• What is the most powerful storm you have witnessed? How did you feel?
• As a teenager, what did you not like about yourself that you changed?

Study

Read Romans 1.16-17 and discuss the following

• Why do you think the FACTS of the gospel are important as in 1 Corinthians 15.3-4?
• How do: Facts-Understanding-Action interrelate?
• How does Paul express his personal transformation by saying, “I am not ashamed of the gospel?”
• In what ways does the gospel “Re-Form” us – even after we are believers in Jesus?
• In what ways is the gospel good news? In what ways could it be bad news?
• How would you explain verse 17 to someone who does not speak “Christian-ese”?

Apply

• How have you seen the gospel change people?
• How has the gospel changed you? How is this change a process? How is it instantaneous?
• What failure in your life can you look back on and NOW see good from?

An amazing thing is happening in formerly Soviet-controlled countries. They want BIBLES to influence and improve the character of their children (and adults). They are doing this through their school systems.

EEM publishes and distributes Bibles in the languages of the people. It is having an amazing impact. Children are changing. They take their Bibles home from school; share it with their parents and the parents change. Faith is being produced by God’s word in places where atheistic Communism once thrived!

Paul declared:  ¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.¹⁷ For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”Romans 1:16-17

Please pray for this effort!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

2.      ¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.¹⁷ For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” Romans 1.16-17

3.      Dunamos = Power

a.      Dynamite – Destructive; Dynamo – Constructive

b.      Electricity – Capital punishment; Lighting houses

c.       Nuclear Power – Hiroshima; Energy for our cities

4.      Gospel is intended to be “good news” – can be used to tear down or build up

a.       The same message saved the Hebrews and drowned Pharaoh’s Army

b.      The same message will save the faithful and condemn the disobedient

I.                   The Good News Is God’s Power to Inform

A.     The Facts of the Gospel – 1 Corinthians 15.3-4

³ For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures,⁴ that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,

1.      Most here – grew up in church, knowing these facts

2.      Some of us did not grow up with these facts

3.      Either way these are the crucial, essential foundation of our lives

B.     Facts Bring Understanding

A freshman at Eagle Rock Junior High won first prize at the greater Idaho Falls Science Fair, April 26, 1997. . .

1.      While facts are important, we do not have to have a complete understanding of everything God commands us to do

2.      Baptism – Naaman – 2 Kings 5; [A. Campbell – translated NT and discovered baptism meant “immersion” – so, he asked a Baptist preacher to immerse him; 15 years later “baptism for the remission of sin”

3.      Reenact the DBR; Pre-enact our DBR

C.     Understanding Brings Action

1.      Change occurs when we LEARN enough Ephesians 3:4-6

2.      or Hurt enough

[Eastern European Missions AND World Bible School

Remember when people prayed for the Iron Curtain to come down so we could spread the gospel? IT HAS! God did his part. Here is an opportunity to provide Bibles for public schools in Ukraine. $945/school. $1 Million+ will take care of the schools in 2 States. The plan is to accomplish this by end of school year!

II.                The Good News Is God’s Power to Transform – Romans 12:1-2

The true story of the Mutiny on the Bounty . . .

A.     Universal Transformation (Jew/Greek) – Hebrews 4:12-13

1.      Good News – Luke 2:10-11

2.      Bad News – Romans 3:23; 6:23

B.     Personal Transformation – Romans 1.16 (I am not ashamed . . .)

1.      Shame is a big motivator – Dead Messiah?

2.      Impacts Individuals – Paul; Ethiopian; Cornelius; Jailer; Lydia

3.      Impacts Groups of Individuals – Pentecost; Priests (Acts 6.7); Philip at Samaria; HOUSEHOLDS

III.             The Good News Is God’s Power to Reform

A.     When We Fail - 1 John 1:6-7

B.     When We Are Confused – Focus on Yeshua (Jesus)–  Hebrews 12:1-2

Conclusion

1.      Pioneer 10 Story

2.     $Million Sunday for Eastern European Missions; Impact of WBS;

    2.  Eyewitness testimony story.

    3.  So Far we have seen:

a.       Lamb Selection Day – “Palm Sunday”/”Triumphal Entry”/1 Week before resurrection

b.      Lamb Sacrifice Day – Passover

c.       Our Lamb’s Burial – Feast of Unleavened Bread

d.      Lamb’s Resurrection – Feast of Firstfruits

e.       50 Days to Shavuot/Pentecost

4. Post-Resurrection Yeshua (Jesus) to His Apostles – ³ He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. Acts 1.3

I.                   Yeshua’s (Jesus’) Formidable Witnesses

Great Raid Story — POW’s were not forgotten

A.     The Significance of Witnesses –

1.      In establishing a Truthful Situation  Matthew 18.15-16 CF Deuteronomy 19.15

2.      Yeshua (Jesus) even used TWO Parables to establish the truth of some of his teachings

B.     The Sacred Scriptures as Witnesses –1 Corinthians 15.3-11

1.      Declared the Gospel in Advance – Isaiah 61.1 (Luke 4.18)

2.      OT scriptures produced faith in believers of Yeshua (Jesus) – Acts 8, etc.

C.     The Sanctified Saints as Witnesses – 1 Corinthians 15.5-8

1.         References of Jesus’ appearances after His resurrection:

1. TO MARY MAGDALENE AT THE TOMB – JOHN.20:11-17

2. TO THE OTHER WOMEN RETURNING TO THE TOMB – MT.28:9-10

3. TO PETER – LUKE 24:34; 1 COR. 15:5

4. TO THE DISCIPLES ON THE EMMAUS ROAD – LU.24:13-31

5. TO THE 10 DISCIPLES – MK.16:14

6. TO THE 11 DISCIPLES A WEEK AFTER THE RESURRECTION – JN.20:26-29

7. TO 7 DISCIPLES BY SEA OFGALILEE – JN.21:1-23

8. APPEARANCE TO 500 – 1 COR. 15:6

9. TO JAMES THE LORD’S BROTHER – 1 COR. 15:7

10. TO THE 11 DISCIPLES ON THE MT. IN GALILEE – MT.28:16-20

11. AT THE ASCENSION – ACTS 1:3-9

12. TO STEPHEN AT HIS STONING – ACTS 7:55 – 56

13. TO PAUL ON THE DAMASCUS ROAD – ACTS 9:3-6

14. TO PAUL IN ARABIA – GAL. 1:12-17

15. TO PAUL IN THE TEMPLE – ACTS 9:26-27

16. TO PAUL IN PRISON IN CAESAREA – ACTS 23:11

17. TO THE APOSTLE JOHN – REV. 1:12 – 20

2.         PEOPLE and Eyewitness Accounts are important!

II.                Yeshua’s (Jesus’) 40 Day Teachings

A.     Focused on the Scriptures

1.      Emmaus – Luke 24.13-35 (esp. v. 27)

And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

2.      Disciples – Luke 24.36-49 (esp. vv. 44-49)

B.     Emphasized Action

1.      His Coming Ascension

2.      The Coming Holy Spirit (Acts 1.4-5; John 14.15-17; 16.7-10)

Luke 24.49 — ⁴⁹ And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.

3.      Advancing the Kingdom (Rule of God) – Acts 1.6-8

1.      Could all of this have been a hoax? Could Yeshua (Jesus) have manipulated the situation for his own benefit and then the disciples have taken advantage of the situation after his death?

2.      This is only possible IF:

a.       More than 500 people collaborated and were willing to suffer and die for it

b.      Note Paul’s Trials in 2 Corinthians 11.23-29

²³ Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one—I am talking like a madman—with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death.²⁴ Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one.²⁵ Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea;²⁶ on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers;²⁷ in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure.²⁸ And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.²⁹ Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?

c.       Note the Apostles’ Fate:

SIMON PETER – A FISHERMAN was crucified, head-down, at his own request.

ANDREW, BROTHER OF SIMON PETER – A FISHERMAN was crucified at Patras in Achaia. JAMES, SON OF ZEBEDEE – A FISHERMAN was beheaded – ’put to the sword’ (Acts 12:1-2 following) by King Herod.

JOHN, BROTHER OF JAMES and SON OF ZEBEDEE – A FISHERMAN was banished to the island of Patmos, now one of the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. He was subsequently freed and died a natural death at Ephesus c AD100.

PHILIP was martyred at Hierapolis.

BARTHOLOMEW, also NATHANAEL was flayed alive, and then beheaded.

THOMAS DIDYMUS – ’DOUBTING THOMAS’ was speared to death in India.

MATTHEW, also LEVI – TAX-COLLECTOR/PUBLICAN was martyred in Ethiopia.

JAMES, SON OF ALPHAEUS was martyred in Egypt.

JUDE, also THADDAEUS was killed with him in Persia.

SIMON THE ZEALOT or PATRIOT was either crucified or hacked to death in Persia

MATTHIAS was martyred in Ethiopia.

PAUL OR SAUL OF TARSUS was beheaded in Rome.

3.      Would you be willing to go through these things for a hoax? Modern Martyrs

4.      The Eyewitness accounts of Yeshua AFTER his resurrection indicate the truth of it/Him

5.      How does this impact us? – It is true; we believe; act; and go “all out” – hold nothing back

Please share your response to one of the following:

1. What is the hardest “good-bye” you have had to make? What made it hard?
2. If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?

Study

Please read 1 Corinthians 15.3-11 and discuss the following with your group:

1. How would you describe the facts of the gospel?
2. Why do you think the scriptures were at the center of Jesus’ proofs of his resurrection?
3. What is so important about so many eyewitnesses to Jesus’ resurrection?
4. Which people in Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances are most significant to you?
5. What makes you think this was not a hoax?
6. Why does Paul emphasize “grace” in verses 9-11?

Apply

1. If you had been an advisor to Jesus during the 40 days he spent with his disciples after the resurrection, what things would you have encouraged him to teach? Why?
2. If you had been one of the people who had literally seen Jesus after the resurrection, how do you think you would have reacted?
3. Knowing Jesus is alive, how do you react?
4. When hearing the accounts and evidences of Jesus’ resurrection, how do you respond?
5. If you were to explain the gospel to an interested friend, what would you say?

Recently a similar circumstance impacted the University of Arkansas football team. Misconduct off of the field cost the coach his lucrative position. It was not the University’s win-loss record, rather a character issue.

Character is important. When course corrections are in order, they must be made. Leaders, such as coaches, impact the lives of many people. It becomes doubly hard for them. They must perform their jobs and do it with high ideals. One man I know said, “We should always do the right things and do things right.” This is sage advice that pays off in the long run.

James warns us in regard to teaching the Bible: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness” (James 3:1). There is a principle of high expectations for those in leadership positions – doing the right things in the right ways.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Two preachers were on the roadside with a sign that read, “The End is Near – turn around now before it’s too late”. A passing driver yelled “leave us alone you religious nuts”. Then the preachers heard a loud splash. One preacher said to the other, “Do you think we should have just said “Bridge Out”.

 2.      Importance of “signs” – 1 Corinthians 1.22  (For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom,)

 3.      Ultimate sign of Jesus – empty tomb

 4.      Other signs of Jesus

a.       Prophecies and their fulfillment

b.      7 Feasts (Leviticus 23) –

1)      All Point to Jesus

2)      4 Fulfilled; 3 yet to be

5.      Three feasts lined up in a daily order at the time Jesus died – Passover – Friday; Unleavened Bread – Saturday (Sabbath); First Fruits — Sunday

I.       Passover: The King’s Redemption – 1 Corinthians 5.7

A.     Original Purpose of Passover – Life for the Faithful

1.      Enslaved in Egypt – Call and Leadership of Moses

2.      10^th Plague – Lambs’ blood on doorposts; “Pass Over”; Chet & Chai

3.      Freedom to serve God

B.     Hidden Meanings in Passover

1.      Egypt = Sin

2.      Yeshua (Jesus) = Lamb – John 1.29

3.      Redemption/Freedom to serve God – by the blood of the Lamb  Matthew 26.27-28

II.    Unleavened Bread: The King’s Righteousness  1 Corinthians 5.6-8

A.     Original Idea – Removing Leaven from Houses (Yeshua (Jesus) Cleansing his Father’s House by driving out the money-changers, etc.) – only used unleavened bread (Exodus 12.15)

B.     Hidden Meanings

1.      Sinless Body of Yeshua (Jesus) – Matthew 26.26

2.      Suffering Body of Yeshua (Jesus) – Matzah – Isaiah 53.4-5

3.      Submerged (Buried) Body of Yeshua (Jesus) John 12.23-25

4.      Sabbath Body – Yeshua (Jesus) was in the Tomb on God’s “Day of Rest”

III.             First Fruits: The King’s Resurrection

A.     Original Intent – Celebration of Spring and God’s Replenishing the Earth

1.      God Gives the Best

2.      God Promises – More to Come – Gives to us out of love and concern; Baal out of manipulation

3.      God Has first call on EVERYTHING – first sheaf to God

4.      Man’s willingness to Give to God – FIRST

B.     Hidden Message

1.      God Gave us His Best in Yeshua (Jesus) – Hebrews 1.1-12 (Mark in Bible)

2.      Although Yeshua (Jesus) Died – He lives – forever

3.      There is MORE to Come – WE will be raised to live forever!

 1 Corinthians 15.20-23

SO What?

We have Redemption; Righteousness; Resurrection – So what?

Chameleons or Christians?

We live lives of Redemption; Righteousness; Resurrection Romans 6.1-

We are a type of First Fruits for others –

Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. James 1.18

WARNING SIGNs

Share your response to one of the following:

1. What is your idea of a great party?
2. Tell of a tradition in your family and what it means to you.

Study

Please Read 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 and discuss the following

1. In what ways do you see the ancient feasts of God (Leviticus 23) as pointing to Jesus?
2. What is significant in the Passover about Jesus? What parallels do you see in the original purpose of Passover and its symbolism in Jesus?
3. What is significant in the Feast of Unleavened Bread? How does this speak to the body of Jesus?
4. What is significant in the Feast of First Fruits?
5. Why do you think the resurrection of Jesus is so important?

Apply

Read Romans 6.1-4 – what is the result of following Jesus?

1. In what ways are you like a chameleon? In what ways are you different?
2. How can you encourage your fellow believers to “stand out” in the crowd as disciples of Jesus?

The missionary smiled and said, “I should be pleased to hear what it is.”

The Muslim said, “When we Muslims go to Mecca we at least find a coffin. But when you Christians go to Jerusalem, which is your Mecca, you find nothing but an empty grave.”

The missionary just smiled and said, “That is just the difference.

Muhammad is dead; he is in the coffin. All false systems of religion and philosophy are in their coffins, but Jesus Christ, whose kingdom is to include all nations and kindred and tribes, is not here; He is risen. And all power in heaven and on earth is given unto Him. That is our hope.

Annually the Christian world celebrates the empty tomb of Jesus. It was on the first day of the week following Jesus’ last supper that he overcame death itself. In so doing, he gives those who follow him hope.

Remember the words of the angel:

⁵ But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.⁶ He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.⁷ Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” Matthew 28:5-7

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

¹² The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.¹³ So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!”¹⁴ And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, ¹⁵ “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt!”

4.      Palm Sunday – One Week Before Easter – resurrection celebration

5.      This Day was more than Yeshua’s (Jesus’) journey into Jerusalem and even more than the cross; it included:

I.                   Emotional Connections

A.     Don’t Forget the Emotions of Yeshua (Jesus)

1.      Sorrow – Lazarus (John 11.35); Jerusalem – Luke 19.41-44

2.      Anger – Luke 19.45-46

3.      Excitement – Zacchaeus – Luke 19.9

B.     The Passover Story Employs Emotions

1.      Emotional Events surrounding the Passover (Pesach)

Rollercoaster of emotions – slavery and freedom; dealings with Pharaoh; plagues; death of firstborn

2.      The Lamb – Exodus 12.1-6

a.       The Lamb was part of the family – the reason the shepherd leaves the 99 to find the lost ONE – doesn’t wait for more to be lost; willing to fight the predators

b.      Qualities – One year old male; without blemish; sheep or goat;

C.     The “Triumphal Entry” Was Emotional – For God

1.      His Lamb – 5 days before Passover (John 12.12)

2.      His Son – John 3.16 (one of a kind)

a.       Abraham’s Sacrifice of Isaac – one of a kind son

b.      Riding the Donkey – Yeshua (Jesus) assumes God’s and Man’s parts in the sacrifice

                                            i.      Yeshua (Jesus) was the Lamb to be sacrificed – “God will provide”

ii.      He was also the sacrifice – God sent an angel to stop Abraham – He did not stop himself

iii.      God “cut a covenant with Abraham in Genesis in which he assured him that he would fulfill it by going through the blood path twice – the smoking fire pot and the flaming torch

II.                Expectation Controversies

Josephus, the notable Jewish historian, estimated that two-three million people were involved in the great Passover Feast. It is known that 256,500 lambs were slain at one Passover and that each lamb represented at least ten worshippers. Teeming thousands from all over the world were flooding into the city to observe the Passover. The mass of people and the necessary housing and food arrangements to handle such a mass of people can hardly be imagined.

A.     “Hosanna” – A Triumphant King

1.       We – “save us from Sin
2.      They – Save us from: Rome; Distress; disease; Distresses; Hunger; etc.
3.       Son of David = Political Messia

B.     “Hosanna” – A Sacrificial Substitute

1.       Son of David = The Messiah
2.       Key to understanding is in these two verses:

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Zechariah 9.9

Behold, the Lord has proclaimed to the end of the earth: Say to the daughter of Zion, “Behold, your salvation comes; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.” Isaiah 62.11

3.      GOD = the salvation (Yeshua) of Israel – God as his own son and servant will accomplish his purpose in our salvation

4.      Also hints at TWO visits – the First as a humble sacrifice, riding the donkey; the Second as the victorious King of kings (Philippians 2.9-11)

Conclusion

1.       Pointless Things
2.       There was a Coming where:

a.       Yeshua (Jesus) was our sacrifice for sins

b.      He rules over all men

1.       There is another type of coming – a personal one

Hebrews 3.7-8 (cf. Psalm 95.7)

⁷ Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says,

“Today, if you hear his voice, ⁸ do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness,

4.      We MUST Hear and He will come

5.      Honoring Yeshua (Jesus)

Open

Please share your answer to ONE of the following:

1. What do you like best about parades? Least?
2. When purchasing an important item, what is your criterion for selection?
3. What makes you cry?

Study

Please read John 12.12-16 (or another selection from above) and discuss the following with your Group:

1. In what ways do you see this as Jesus’ “triumphal entry” into Jerusalem?
2. How does this scene depict God’s selection for HIS Passover sacrifice?
3. How do you think this Passover impacted the Father? The Son?
4. What do you think is the significance of the “Hosannas” that the crowd was shouting?
5. Jesus expressed great emotions (as weeping over Jerusalem; anger in clearing the temple), which one(s) surprise(s) you?
6. What is significant about the Donkey on which he rode? (see also Zechariah 9.9)

Apply

1. What kind of reception would Jesus get if he came to our town?
2. How has Jesus ridden into your life?
3. In addition to sin, what areas of your life do you need him to step in and save?
4. How do you envision the NEXT coming of Jesus? What is significant about Philippians 2.9-11?

There is another aspect to this day that becomes a key to the events surrounding Jesus’ death. A few days before the Passover meal, according to Exodus 12:1-6 and Leviticus 23:4-14, a family had to select a lamb to offer as their sacrifice. As Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem he not only came to conquer sin and death BUT also to be God’s selected lamb for his atoning sacrifice at the Jewish Passover.

At least twice John the Baptizer said of Jesus, “Behold the lamb” (John 1:29, 36). As Jesus enters Jerusalem God reiterates the declaration. He would visibly demonstrate the power of God in the Passover as God led his people out of the bondage of Egypt to freedom in the wilderness and eventually into the land of promise.

As our “Passover Lamb of God,” Jesus leads us out of the bondage of sin and into freedom. This freedom is in our journey through this world into eternity with God. It is the freedom to serve the living God rather than entanglements of the adversary.

This Sunday, “Behold the Lamb!”

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

2.      If someone asked you, “What do you do when you go to church?” What would you say?

3.      Perspective Story

4.      What would happen if we changed how we view what we do at church?

5.      Consider Isaiah’s Experience with God – Isaiah 6:1-8

I.                   Changes in Perspective for Our Worship – From “What Do I Get?” to “What Do I Give?”

A.     From: Sing some songs to: Praising God – Hebrews 13:15

B.     From: Giving Money To: Blessing God with the First Fruits of His Gifts

C.     From: Taking Communion To: Remembering God’s Perfect Sacrifice and His Power in the Resurrection of Jesus

D.     From: Saying Prayers To: Honoring God with the words of our hearts

E.     From: Reading the Bible and Listening to Sermons To: Hearing God’s words for our lives (Shema – Deuteronomy 6.4)

II.                Changes in Perspective Produce Expectations (Isaiah 6:1-8)

Checking Direction Story:

A.     Expect God’s Presence (Isaiah 6:1-4)

1.      Encountering God Changes Lives – Ours and those who follow – Abraham; Moses

2.      A Reminder – Matthew 28:20

B.     Expect a Time of Self-Examination (Isaiah 6:5)

1.      God’s Word is Our Mirror (James 1:22-24)

a.       See Yeshua (Jesus)

b.      See ourselves – Fruit of the Spirit vs. Works of the Flesh

2.      God’s Word Gives Us Right Standards

a.       It is easy to compare ourselves with each other or our culture and feel good (2 Corinthians 10:12)

b.      What happens when we compare ourselves to Yeshua (Jesus)? Luke 5:1-11

C.     Expect a Reminder of Grace (Isaiah 6:6-7)

1.      Goal of worship is not Guilt-Induction – is a time of refreshing (Acts 3:19)

2.      One of the Powerful aspects of the Lord’s Supper is the Grace-Reminder

Richard Foster in his book Celebration of Discipline writes the following: “To worship is to experience Reality, to touch Life. It is to know, to feel, to experience the resurrected Christ in the midst of the gathered community. It is breaking into the glory of God, or better yet, being invaded by the glory of God.”

a.       Baptism is an experience and expression of Grace – Romans 6:1-4

b.      We are reminded that we are not condemned in Christ – Romans 8:1

c.       There is a powerful aspect of grace in our relationship with him – 1 John 1:7

3.      Expression of Gratitude

Victorious athletes react to their victories in a number of ways.

•          Some shake hands
•          Some embrace their teammates or friends tightly
•          Some weep openly
•          Some laugh uncontrollably
•          Some shout and dance
•          Some sit in awed silence

D.     Expect an Inspiration to Serve (Isaiah 6:8)

1.      How do you respond when you receive a gift from someone? Thanks/Reciprocate

2.      We have a similar reaction when we encounter God – he does not beg for servants – it is a natural response

1.      In Bible times the Jewish people looked at their homes as a “Small Temple”

a.       Table = altar

b.      Father = Priest

c.       Parents instructed children in Torah

d.      Family participated in worship activities – Sabbath rituals, Prayer, Community etc.

Even though the Temple was destroyed, the Jewish people live on

 2.      Glad He’s Done

Please share your response to one of the following:

• Share a way in which you dealt with a stressful situation this week.
• What is the best (or worst) trip you have ever taken?
• How have you been recruited for volunteer ministries?

Study

Please read Isaiah 6.1-13 and discuss:

• What could be the significance of Isaiah mentioning the year that King Uzziah died in relationship to his vision?
• Why do you think God chooses to reveal himself to Isaiah?
• What things in this revelation are the most striking to you? How would you have felt in seeing it?
• What does this encounter tell you about the nature and purpose of God?
• What significance do you see in Isaiah’s response in verse 5 compared to verse 8?
• What would be the impact of Isaiah’s work?
• What is key about the last half of verse 13?

Apply

• How does your experience with God compare to Isaiah’s? To the people to whom he was to preach?
• If you were Isaiah, which of your senses would be most impacted by the vision? (i.e., sight; sound; etc.)
• If the members of your HOME Group “responded to the invitation” Sunday morning and said, “Here we are, send us!” What reaction do you think there would be?
• What is something you are learning about God (either from this lesson or in other ways)? How are you responding to it?

There came an unexpected problem. On the day that he arrived, the Spanish border, which had been open, was closed. Benjamin committed suicide in despair. Then one of the most bizarre of paradoxes occurred, the border re-opened the very next day. The closure had been only temporary.

After striving, and running, and hiding, Benjamin had lost hope. He had come to a closed border—there was no way out.

Have you ever “hit the wall”? You have tried everything you can think of – but to no avail. There is a temptation to throw in the towel and just give up. Deep inside we know better.

The apostle Paul had a powerful insight that he shared with us: ¹³ Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,¹⁴ I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3.13-14).

Things are not always easy in the Christian walk. We don’t always see clearly. We DO have a God who keeps hope alive within us through the gift of his Son. Don’t quit!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

2.      Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”

² And he said to them, “When you pray, say:

“Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. ³ Give us each day our daily bread, ⁴ and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.” (Luke 11.1-4)

3.      Prayer is a caught and taught activity

I.       The Disciples Had A Sincere Aspiration (11.1)

A.     They Had Made A Keen Observation

1.      John and His Disciples

2.      Yeshua (Jesus) and His Prayers

One person observed that – There are more than 20 references to Jesus prayer life.

1.        He prayed often (Luke 5:16)
2.       He prayed early in the Morning (Mark 1:35)
3.        He prayed late at Night (Luke 6:12).
4.       He prayed at the beginning of His ministry. . . (Luke 3:21-22)
5.        He prayed before He chose His 12 disciples. . . (Luke 6:12-13)
6.        He prayed all thru the night (Luke 6.12-13)
7.        Jesus prayed before the confession that He was the Christ. . . (Luke 9:18-20)
8.       Jesus prayed before His Transfiguration . . .( Luke 9:28-29)
9.         Jesus prayed before He taught His followers. . . (Luke 11:1)
10.         He prayed while He was teaching others. . . (Matthew 11:25-26)
11.         He prayed after He ministered to others. . . (Matthew 14:23)
12.         Jesus prayed before healing the crowds. . . (Mark 1:35)
13.         Jesus prayed before feeding the 5,000.( Mark 6:41)
14.         Jesus prayed before healing the man who was deaf and mute. . . (Mark 7:34)
15.         Jesus prayed before bringing the dead back to life . . .( John 11:41-43)
16.         Jesus prayed for His friends. . . (Luke 22:32)
17.         Jesus prayed for His disciples. . (John 17:9-16)
18.         Jesus prayed for all Christians. . . (John 17:20)
19.         Jesus prayed before the cross . . . (Luke 22:39-42)
20.         Jesus prayed on the cross . . . (Luke 23:34)
21.         Jesus prayed with disciples after his resurrection (Luke 24)
22.         And now Constant Intercession (Hebrews 7:25

3.      Our Observation of the Early Church – Acts 2.42-47

B.     They Had High Expectations in Prayer

1.      Opposition to Enemies – “Fire from Heaven” (Elijah – 2 Kings 1); Luke 9.51-55

2.      Greatest in Kingdom – James and John – right and left hands

3.      Prayer – more than a “Bat Signal”; Shopping List – Andrew Carnegie – I don’t pray because I do not need anything.”; Good Luck Charm (athletic events)

II.    Yeshua (Jesus) Made A Simple Summation (Luke 11.2-4)

A.     Yeshua (Jesus) and His People Participated in MANY Prayers (1 Thessalonians 5.17)

1.      Temple Prayers – 9 AM; 3 PM

2.      Blessings through the day

3.      Not vain repetition – sincere presentation

Vain Repetitions

B.     Yeshua (Jesus) Gives the Highlights

1.      (Our) Father

a.       Personal Aspect – Father

b.      Family Aspect (Our)

c.       Intimacy – Abba

d.      Boldness – Hebrews 4.14-16

e.       Superior – We request boldly but with humility

f.       Hallowing His Name – Adoration; Making Holy

2.      Kingdom Come

a.       Rule and Reign of God – not territories or buildings – hearts of people

b.      To advance in the world by: Preaching gospel; Obeying commands of God

3.      Daily Bread

a.       Thanksgiving – 1 Thessalonians 5.16-19

b.      People who will miss the world to come – people who dwell on past; future; what is above; what is below and forget about today

c.       Psalm 23 – Green Pastures – Alfalfa field vs. Desert grazing

d.      Manna – enough for right now

e.       Feeding 5000 – Mark 6.39: ³⁹ Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass.

4.      Forgive Our Sins

a.       Implications – Repentance and Confession – Psalm 51.1-5

b.      Forgiving each other

c.       God places a high priority on our community – Leviticus 19.18

Lord Herbert: “He who cannot forgive others, breaks the bridge over which he himself must someday pass.”

5.      Lead Us Not into Temptation

a.       Trials can strengthen (James 1.2)

b.      Tests can lead to sin (Genesis 50.20)

1.      We may feel obligations to pray – sometimes a sense of duty is the only thing that keeps us going – but don’t you think God wants more?

An Obligation Story

2.      A Prerequisite to Prayer is Faith – really believing God will answer

²²And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive. Matthew 21.22 (AMP)

3.      As William Carey once said, “Prayer is my real business! Cobbling shoes is a sideline; it just helps to pay expenses.”

4.      Take it home; Parents, remind your children of God, His Love, and His desire to communicate with them; HOME Groups; anyone who is close

There is an application for Christians. In our battle, our adversary wants to “dumb us down.” He knows the power of the gospel (Romans 1:16). He knows what the proclamation of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection can do for people (1 Corinthians 15). He knows the power of truth in our hands (John 8:32).

Jesus responded to each of Satan’s three tests with, “It is written.” He won the battle (see Matthew 4). Ezra was a great servant of God because . . . Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel” (Ezra 7:10).

We can’t do what God says until we know what he says. Once we know we can’t help but do – if we are living by faith.

How is your daily time with God? What new things are you discovering from his word? What are you doing for others because God has directed your steps?

Don’t get distracted from the call of God.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please share your response to one of the following with your group:

1. What key experience have you had in answered prayer that you can share with the Group?
2. For fun, recite any prayers you memorized as a child?

Study

Please read Luke 11:1-4 and discuss:

1. Why do you think the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray?
2. Why do you think they did not ask about teaching or preaching or healing, etc.?
3. What significance do you see in calling God, “Father” and in “hallowing” his name?
4. What is key to you about DAILY bread?
5. How do you see prayer and forgiveness relating?
6. How do you feel about the brevity of this prayer (see also Matthew 6:9-13)?

Apply

1. How does this prayer relate to your prayers?
2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your prayer life?
3. What are areas you wish to improve? What can you do improve these?
4. How has your concept of prayer changed over the years?
5. When do you feel that God is NOT listening?
6. What issue are you facing that the Group can pray for right now?

1.      Ignorance and the Bible (Illustration)

Someone once asked, “What’s the difference between ignorance and apathy?” A man replied, “I don’t know and I don’t care.” And that’s about how it is when it comes to many people in regard to the Word of God. “I don’t know anything about the Bible and I don’t care.”

2.      Polls have found:

90% of Americans own at least one Bible; 80% say that the Bible is the most influential book of all time

•          The problem is most Americans aren’t reading the book
•          In this congregation – about 10% of our baptized membership are “Daily Bible Readers” by their own report;

Yeshua (Jesus) quoted from Deuteronomy 8.3 in his testing with Satan in Matthew 4.4:

And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.

•         When was the last time you missed a meal?
•         How often do you miss reading the Bible?

3.      2 Timothy 3.14-17

4.      Parents can have a profound effect on the spiritual development of your children by making the Bible an important part of your life. Let them see you read it; talk to them about it; encourage their study of it –We have included a “Take It Home” activity for you to use with your kids; within your HOME Group; or with anyone you want to share this with

I.       Faith Grows Best When Begun Early (3.15)

•          Daniel Webster: “If there is anything in my thoughts or style to commend, the credit is due to my parents for instilling in me an early love of the Scriptures. If we abide by the principles taught in the Bible, our country will go on prospering and to prosper; but if we and our posterity neglect its instructions and authority, no man can tell how sudden a catastrophe may overwhelm us and bury all our glory in profound obscurity.”

A.     The Significance of Childhood

1.      A time to know God – Ecclesiastes 12.1

2.      Lifelong Impact – Psalm 37.25-26

3.      Becoming child-like – Matthew 18.1-4

4.     And Easier to learn scriptures to recall them as adults – Psalm 119.11 

B.     The Role of Family

1.      God-assigned Responsibility – Deuteronomy 6.4ff

2.      Teaching of Family (and Paul) – ¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it. (3.14)

3.      Grandmother, Lois; Mother, Eunice – Single parents? 2 Timothy 1.5

II.    Faith Grows by Following the Instructions

Listen to what great men in the past have said about the Bible. (via S. Shepherd, “Committed to the Bible”; Sermoncentral.com)

•        Abraham Lincoln: “I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book.”
•        W. E. Gladstone: “I have known ninety-five of the world’s great men in my time, and of these eighty-seven were followers of the Bible.”
•        George Washington: “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”
•      Horace Greeley: “It is impossible to enslave mentally or socially a Bible-reading people. The principles of the Bible are the groundwork of human freedom.”

A.     “Scriptures” Refers to the Old Testament Writings (3.15)

1.      No NT Canon yet

2.      TaNaKH

3.      Inspired – God-Breathed

B.     Scriptures Point Out Salvation

1.      Foreshadowing of the Messiah and Ultimate Atonement

a.       John the Baptist – Forerunner Mark 1.3 cf. Isaiah 40.1-3

b.      Yeshua (Jesus) – Messiah Matthew 21.1-5 cf. Zechariah 9.9; Matthew 21.12-13 cf. Isaiah 56.7 – Removing leaven in preparation for Passover!

2.      Actions for those who determine to follow Yeshua (Jesus)

a.       Pentecost – Acts 2 and Joel 2

b.      Ethiopian – Acts 8.32 cf. Isaiah 53

3.      Faith in Messiah is the basis for our salvation – Romans 10.17; Acts 8.37 (Here is water)

4.      Authority for Apostles – OT Scriptures – quote all through the NT

C.     Scriptures Provide Instructions (3.16-17)

1.         Torah = Instruction, not Law

2.         Teaching = giving correct information

3.         Reproof = Repairing wrong actions/attitudes

4.         Correction = Repairing the Flaws

5.         Training in righteousness = to make right choices

6.         Complete/Maturity

7.         Good Works – Psalm 1.1-3

Conclusion

1.      The Bible is an amazing Book!

a.       I believe the Bible is inspired because it tells the story of ONE God over many years

b.      Ancient Polytheists created their own religions that suited them and made sense to them – what THEY wanted

c.       God called people who were surrounded by immoral polytheism to become moral monotheists (Deuteronomy 6.4)

d.      This came from God, not men – Israel continually went after other gods – endured persecutors; repented; were restored

e.       God Inspired instructions for his people to live by

2.      Psalm 119.105-106; 111-112

3.      Take it Home

Family time – talk about the value of the Bible (remember Lois and Eunice)

Discuss in HOME Group

Devote Personal Time to It

George Washington is my favorite American. At the battle of Monongahela, he was an officer fighting with the British against the French and Indians. The British and their Virginian allies lost this battle to inferior forces. The greatest army in the world broke rank and fled from the field in panic.

Washington had horses shot from beneath him during the battle. He later found at least four bullet holes in his uniform – but had no wounds. The Indians (and some of his comrades) believed that God had protected him and that he “could not die in battle.”

Later, he would reflect on Providence. He also reflected on the fact that the British army could be beaten. This is something that had been unimaginable to him heretofore.

The lessons would accompany him into our War for Independence. The Continental Army, under the leadership of George Washington, defeated the British and established the greatest nation in modern history. He, along with other Founders attributed this monumental accomplishment to the providential hand of God.

Perhaps if the British had won the Battle of Monongahela Washington would not have seen the possibility. His trials brought a nation from oppressive slavery to freedom. When it was all said and done, the trials – all of them – brought incredible joy to countless people.

What trials are you facing? There is discomfort (or it wouldn’t be a trial). There is also a blessing hidden within it. Our task is to learn and do.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

2.      Romans 16.25-27

²⁵ Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages²⁶ but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—²⁷ to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

3.      [Reader’s Digest summarized lengthy books in a concise format – Good for all of us busy Americans – even came out with a Reader’s Digest Version of the Bible so we don’t have to worry about that pesky minutia.

 4.       Our text gives a summary of the gospel

I.       The Gospel Message

A.     Yeshua’s (Jesus’) Story – Romans 3.21-24

1.      “Messiah”

2.      Anticipated – OT/Today (return)

B.      “Good News” is to Be Declared (Romans 10.14-17)

1.      Good Facts – 1 Corinthians 15.1-4 (The Death, Burial, and Resurrection)

2.      Good Promises

a.       To provide wholeness – Saved/Lost is not just about heaven and hell

Why did he come? Son of Man is come to seek and save lost (Luke 19.10); not just go to heaven (“get me out of here”); Hints back to Ezekiel 34.11-12, 16 (done by God) – Yeshua is calling himself God;

Lost – bring back stray; bandage hurt and crippled; strengthen weak and sick (v. 20 – I myself will; v. 23 I will raise up one shepherd feed them; I will be their God)

Saved – Luke 7.50 – And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Healed – Matthew 9.22 – Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well.

The woman was “Yeshua-ed” – Saved or made whole;

Issue of blood for 12 years touched tzitzit (Numbers 15.37ff; represents the totality of God); to be “whole”;

The woman with the issue of blood has heard the teachings of Yeshua and declares himself to be God and says – if I can touch his tzitzit I will be ‘yeshua-ed’ – his name is Yeshua and means to save/make whole;

Why did she do this? Seems strange she would touch the edge of his garment – Malachi 4.2 – “Sun of righteousness (euphemism for shining one of righteousness; messiah) with healing in its/his wings”; when she heard Yeshua speaking and understood he was declaring himself to be God, she linked the passages together and grabbed his tzitzitot and was made whole

b.      To provide freedom – Romans 6.17-18

1)      From sin – Romans 6.3-4

2)      From condemnation

3)      From death

3.      A Good Possession – “MY Gospel”

a.       His proclamation

b.      His Ownership – for all and for ME

II.    The Gospel Mystery

A.     Truth Formerly Concealed Is Now Revealed – Romans 11.25

Road to Emmaus – Luke 24

Parables

Hidden Gospel in OT – Isaiah 53; Psalm 22

Lord’s Supper is More Than crackers and juice – Body and Blood – 1 Corinthians 11.27-34

B.     The BIG Mystery – the Nations

1.      We Expect Salvation for Israel in God’s Plan – Romans 1.16

2.      Jews’ Advantages:

a.      Scriptures – Romans 3.1-2

b.      God’s Focus – Romans 9.4-5

3.      SURPRISE! God Let the Nations in – Romans 11.30-32

III. The Gospel Manifestations

A.     Our Obedience to God

1.      The Obedience of Yeshua (Jesus) – Romans 5.19

¹⁹ For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous. = “Attentive; Hearkening; Compliance; Submissive”

2.      Obedience is Learned – Hebrews 5.8

3.      Obedience is Seen in Our Actions – Romans 12.9-14

B.     Our Obedience Brings Glory to God – Romans 16.26-27

Matthew 5.16 – Let light shine; glorify Father in Heaven AS:

1.      God of Eternity (eternal/immortal)

False gods/idols began with man

Man began with God – Psalm 90.1-2 (from everlasting to everlasting – you are God)

2.      God of Wisdom

3.      God of Power – Ephesians 3.20-21

3 Hebrew Boys – Our God is able

Three things Hebrews would die for rather than be forced to do:

Commit Murder; Immorality; idolatrous worship

4.      God of Worthiness (Deserves Worship)

Conclusion

 Don Calhoun and the Million Dollar Shot.

Discuss one of the following with your Group:

• How do you feel when someone asks you to keep a secret? Can you tell of a time that keeping the secret was especially difficult?
• Who is your favorite fictional detective? What is special about him/her?

Study

Read Romans 16.25-27 and discuss the following with your Group:

• How would you summarize the “Gospel” to someone? Would you emphasize the facts, commands, or promises? Why?
• In what ways do you think the gospel is more than just about heaven?
• In what ways can you say the gospel is, “My Gospel”?
• In Luke 24.13-35, Jesus meets two of his disciples on the road to Emmaus. Why do you think they do not recognize him at first? What caused them to finally know it was the Lord? What was significant about their actions once they realized they had been with Jesus?
• Why do you think it was a surprise to bring Gentiles into the church?
• How do you think obeying God brings him glory?
• How would you define “glory”?

Apply

• What are the best ways for you to show the gospel in your life? What are positive things you do and negative things you avoid?
• Aside from heaven, what is your favorite promise of the gospel? How does your life reflect this promise?
• How do you stay focused on the big picture of the gospel?

When the Jews returned from Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem, the temple, and their religious practices they got off track. They started well, but soon they stopped building for God and started building for themselves. Their economy went into a tailspin.

In the little book of Haggai, God declares:

Consider your ways. ⁶ You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes (1.5-6).

Does this sound familiar? Gas is supposed to be $5 per gallon soon. This will force increased costs in other industries. We are earning wages that seem to go into a bag with holes in it.

The answer to the problem does not lie only in our political system. It lies in the original foundation of the nation. As a nation, GOD was our foundation in the beginning. We have elected poor leadership for our country and gotten off track because we have left God out of the picture and made it all about US.

Do you want to improve the country? Do you want to make it a better place for our children and grandchildren? The answer begins with each of us determining to live with GOD as the center of our lives. Just as Israel of old, when we honor God, He will honor us.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

“The highest glory of the American Revolution was this; it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity.”

“From the day of the Declaration…they (the American people) were bound by the laws of God, which they all, and by the laws of The Gospel, which they nearly all, acknowledge as the rules of their conduct.”

Adams, as other Founders, saw Americans as a people to put the laws of God into practice on every level within the newly formed country. America was not just a land of opportunity or Liberty. It was a nation that based its existence on the Word of God. Its teachings were to be the standards of conduct within the land.

The Founders knew that “righteousness exalts a nation” (Proverbs 14:34). They knew that the Constitution was not suited for people with no standards for their behavior. They knew that the only “separation of church and state” was that of keeping the government out of the affairs of the churches.

We are seeing numerous erosions of the founding principles of our nation. As a nation, we have chosen economy over spirituality. If we choose spirituality, we would have both. Since we choose money over God, we have neither. Can we see the wisdom of our Founders?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please share your response to ONE of the following with your Group:

1. If we surveyed your friends from High School, what two adjectives would they use to describe you?
2. Tell us something you have learned about yourself this year.
3. What is the greatest peer pressure you felt as a teen? As an adult? How did/are you handling it?

Study

Please read Matthew 16.13-20 and discuss the following with your Group:

1. If you were to describe Jesus in one or two words, what would you say?
2. Why do you think Jesus asked what others were saying about him?
3. What is the significance of the list of individuals that people thought Jesus might be?
4. What is significant about Peter’s confession?
5. How do you think the Father revealed this to Peter?
6. What is/are the rock(s) on which Jesus would build his church?
7. How is the church a spiritual temple? How are we living stones in that temple?
8. Please respond to this quote: “We should attempt things so great that they are doomed to failure unless God intervenes.” (Henry Blackaby)

Apply

1. What is good or bad about hearing what others say about Jesus?
2. In what ways is this inconsequential?
3. Who is Jesus to you?
4. Having answered the above question, what does this imply for your life? (Stewardship; Scripture-based Judgments)

Jesus said unto them: “Who do you say that I am?”

And they replied: “You are the eschatological manifestation of the ground of our being, the kerygma in which we find the ultimate meaning of our interpersonal relationships.”

And Jesus said: “What?”

Whoever wrote that graffiti was basically complaining about some of the names and expressions that men had invented to try to define Jesus.

 2.      It is difficult to come up with a one word description of Yeshua (Jesus) – Son of Man; Son of God; Messiah (Christ); Holy One; Nazarene; Prince of Peace; etc.

3.      Matthew 16.13-20

4.      Easy to criticize Church

Worship service; sermons; building; bulletin; leadership; programs

Church is not the place many want to go – bad impressions;

Christians see church as “their” organization — “The church is for ME.”

5.      This Passage has real impact on our lives – climax of Yeshua’s teaching ministry; a type of final exam for the apostles (sink or swim – one question); our answer to this question is key – our eternal destiny centers on it;

I.                   A Key Observation

A.     Looking Out to Others

The difference between a conviction and a preference, according to the U.S. Supreme Court:

A preference is a strong belief, but a belief that you will change under the right circumstances. Circumstances such as: 1) peer pressure; if your beliefs are such that other people stand with you before you will stand, your beliefs are preferences, not convictions, 2) family pressure, 3) lawsuits, 4) jail, 5) threat of death; would you die for your preferences? A conviction is a belief that you will not change. Why? A man believes that his God requires it of him. A conviction is not something that you discover; it is something that you purpose in your heart (cf. Daniel 1-3). Convictions on the inside will always show up on the outside, in a person’s lifestyle. David C. Gibbs, Jr., Christian Law Association, P.O. Box 30290, Cleveland, Ohio 44130.

1.      There was Speculation about Yeshua (Jesus) – John the Baptist; Elijah; Jeremiah; a Prophet

2.      View of Messiah as political

3.      Observations of Yeshua (Jesus) – Rabbi; miracle worker; not politician

4.      Today? – Good man; good teacher; ethical; ONE way to heaven (John 14.6); other views of Messiah – USF student – He will return as he came via a woman

B.     Looking In to Self

1.      Great Confession – “Messiah-God” (literal translation in Hebrew)

[Inquisition/Modern Islam (Convert or die)

2.      Incarnation – Atonement – 1 Corinthians 1.22-24

II.                A Key Inspiration

A.     Encountering God

1.      We are to KNOW God – not know about God – Jeremiah 31.33-34

³⁴ And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, ‘Know the LORD,’ for they shall all know me,. . .”

2.      More than mental knowledge

3.      Enoch-Abraham-Moses-Yeshua-Apostles-Disciples-US?

4.      Holy Spirit – John 14.15-17

B.     Encountering God Brings:

1.      Responsible Stewardship – Keys to the Kingdom

And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David. He shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. Isaiah 22.22 cf. Revelation 3.7; Acts 2

Henry Blackaby – the author of “Experiencing God” writes: “We should attempt things so great that they are doomed to failure unless God intervenes.”

2.      Reasonable Judgment

a.       Bind/Loose – Idiom – forbid/permit – judgment calls for the gray areas

b.      Gentile Converts – Acts 15

c.       Paul’s comment on marriage – 1 Corinthians 7.10-13

¹⁰ To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord

¹² To the rest I say (I, not the Lord)

III.             A Key Construction

A.     The Builder is Yeshua (Jesus) – “I WILL build. . .” (not just future – fact)

1.      HIS church

2.      HIS initiative

3.      We add by our intentional actions

B.     The Building

1.      Church = ekklesia (called out; Greek); kahal (community; congregation; assembly; Hebrew)

2.      Living Temple – Ephesians 2.21-22

²¹ in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. ²² In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

3.      Significant Stones 1 Peter 2.4-5

⁴ As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, ⁵ you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

4.      Purpose/Place

C.     The Base (Foundation)

²⁴ “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵ And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. Matthew 7.24-25

1.      Truth of Yeshua (Jesus) – Petros vs. Petra

2.      Yeshua is the chief cornerstone – Ephesians 2.18-21

3.      Apostles (2.20)

4.      Quarry of Abraham – Isaiah 51.1-2

•          How are you doing on your own? Yeshua (Jesus) offers stability to your life.
•         Death itself cannot stop your success – because of the resurrection of Yeshua (Jesus).

]]> http://perrysscope.com/blog/2012/02/15/who-do-men-say-i-am-sermon-outline/feed/ 0 http://perrysscope.com/blog/2012/02/08/what-is-man-small-group-lesson/ http://perrysscope.com/blog/2012/02/08/what-is-man-small-group-lesson/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:57:37 +0000 Perry http://perrysscope.com/blog/?p=636 Open

Please discuss one of the following with your Group:

1. If you have met a celebrity, tell the Group about it. How did you feel meeting this person?
2. What are the biggest questions you have about your relationship with God?

Study

Please read Psalm 8 and discuss the following with your Group:

1. Why do you think the Psalmist opens and closes the Psalm the same way?
2. How does gazing into the heavens impact us?
3. What does this say about our relationship to God?
4. How do you think children glorify God?
5. In what ways is his “name” majestic or glorious in all the earth?
6. In what ways are we a little lower than the heavenly beings (literally, “Elohim” or God)?
7. How are we crowned with glory and honor?
8. What is our role before God? What are some implications?

Apply

1. In what ways are we stewards of the creation? How does this play out in your life?
2. In recognizing the greatness of God, how do you feel about His knowledge of you?
3. What response does this elicit from you?
4. What things do you know about our Creator just by observing the world and universe that He created?

1.      Relationships: During John F. Kennedy’s presidency, there was one member of his cabinet who had a unique relationship with the President: the Attorney General was his brother Robert. Robert Kennedy was reported to have greeted new lawyers entering the Department with the following message:

“This may appear to be a large organization, but when you do something well, I’ll hear about it and it will go on your record. I want you to recall that I was recently a lowly worker in the Justice Department myself, but that I now serve as Attorney General, due to perseverance, long hours, hard work, and the fact that my brother became President of the United States… not necessarily in that order.”

APPLY: It helps to be related. I want to remind us of our special relationship with God.

We’re created in God’s image. That gives a unique relationship with God. And because of that relationship, God places immense value on you and me.

•   In Genesis 1, God created the Light and said: “That’s good”
• He created the sun, moon and stars and said: “That’s good”
• He created the vegetation and said: “That’s good”
• He created the animals and said: “That’s good”
•   But on the 6th day, after having created man and giving him dominion over all the works that He had created, God said: “That’s VERY good.”

2.      Psalm 8

3.      Questions This Psalm answers: Who Am I? Why Am I Here? Who Is God?

I.       The Pure Praise for God – (Bookend verses)

A.    Praise Comes When We Encounter God

1.      Moses at the bush; Thomas with Jesus

2.      “Visit” – (Oversee; Remember; Care for)

a.       Punishment – Genesis 6

b.      Gracious Provisions – You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit. Job 10.12; James 1.27

B.     Praise Incorporates “Awe” – Exodus 20.20

The April 16, 2007 issue of Time Magazine contains and excerpt from the new biography on Albert Einstein titled, “Einstein and Faith.”

II.    The Permeating Power of God

A.    His Power is Seen in His “Name”

But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth. Exodus 9.16 (to Pharaoh before plague of Hail)

But God said to me, ‘You may not build a house for my name, for you are a man of war and have shed blood.’ 1 Chronicles 28.3 (to David)

If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it. John 14.14

B.     His Power is Seen Nature

1.      In the Heavens

a.       Creative Power

b.      “Fingers” (Not Handiwork) – idiom for Holy Spirit

See: Exodus 8.18-20; 31.18; Luke 11.20

c.       This was probably a nighttime recitation – no sun is mentioned

2.      On the Earth (Matthew 6.10 – on earth as it is in heaven)

a.       The Innocents – infants (Psalm 8.2) 

Quoted by Jesus – Matthew 21.14-17

*Child shall lead them (Isaiah 11.6) /Josiah – Jesus

b.      The Enemies – Adversaries (Job and Satan)

III. The Prominence of People with God – “What is Man?”

A.    The Low View (Negative Side) Proverbs 6.16-19

B.     The High View (Positive Side)

One author noted this and commented: “God is crazy about you. . . “

1.      God has given us Divine Qualities – “crowned him with glory and honor/majesty”

2.      A little less than the divine –

3.      His image – live up to it. – Render to Caesar/to God

A famous artist once took his easel to the heart of Paris. He secured a studio overlooking a back street. His attention was captured by a man below—a common derelict, dirty and unshaved, spending most of his days in a drunken stupor. He decided to paint him, but not as a bum. He painted him clean, well-groomed, an image of self-respect. Then he showed the portrait to the man. “That’s not me,” he said. “It can’t be.” The artist replied, “When I look at you, this is the man I see.” If that is the man you see,” said the derelict, “then that is the man I will be!” God sees us not just as we are now, but as we can be. For “…while we were yet sinners Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Conclusion:

1.      God IS mindful of us.

2.      He made us; he loves us (every one of us)

3.      He is coming again for us.

Conrad Hyers in his book, And God Created Laughter tells a of an 8 year old girl who wrote to Abraham Lincoln, who was then running for President suggesting that he grow a beard. In her opinion, Lincoln would stand a better chance of election if he grew one to hide the homeliness of his face. Lincoln could have been offended, but instead he answered her letter personally and thanked her for her suggestion, furthering adding that he’d like to visit with her when his campaign came to her area. . . .

How much impact would you say Christianity has on America today? Millions of Americans claim to be Christians but is it real or just lip service? American Christians have allowed biblical morality to decay within our nation. We have allowed abortion on demand and same-sex marriages because we have been quiet.

We can make a difference if we vote our biblical values. About 75% of American Christians have not registered to vote or do not take the time to make their voices heard. Founder, Samuel Adams once stated that he believed we would be accountable to God for how we vote.

Samuel’s cousin, John Adams stated, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” If we ignore God, his word, his standards, and sit idly by why should he bless us?

If you are a follower of Jesus Christ I want to encourage you to be involved in the restoring of our nation. You can:

•          Pray to God (2 Chronicles 7:14)
•          Speak Up in God’s Name (Colossians 3:17)
•          Act (including voting) for God’s Standards (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Share your answer to ONE of the following:

1. Which is taller this week – your IN box or your OUT box?
2. What is your ideal job?
3. What three barriers keep you from reaching your full potential? What would help you overcome these barriers?

Study

Please read Exodus 18:13-23 and discuss the following with your Group:

1. From your knowledge of Moses, what do you infer was his job description from God?
2. How do you think Moses and his father-in-law got along? Why would Moses listen to him?
3. What were the key elements to Jethro’s plan? In what ways was he “on target”?
4. Why do you think Moses might have had a hard time with this idea? Why would he adopt it?
5. What is a key role of church leaders today (Ephesians 4:11-13)?
6. Why do you think church leaders may get off track from their calling?

Apply

1.  On a church level:

• How can you help our church leaders’ stress levels?
• What criteria will you use to select our next elders? Which is biblical and which is personal?

2.  On a Personal Level:

• As a Group, create a list of your top 5 Stresses.
• Now, help each other deal with your top stresses.

Exodus 18.12-23

Jethro – “What are you doing?” “This is not good.”

I.       The Burden on Leadership

[Number of People at SY – Members + Children + Regular Visitors = 885

A.     Primary Role to Equip Members for Ministry – Ephesians 4.11-13

Training/Caring For/Leading/Mentoring

[Barna Survey – 10% of church members are active in any kind of personal ministry (does not have to be official church ministries); 50% of all church members have NO interest in serving in ANY form of Ministry –

Reason we are uninvolved – Don’t see a need – saved by grace; waiting to die

B.     Danger – Burnout – Numbers 11.11

1.       Massive Numbers – 3 Million for Moses
2.       6 Elders for All of SY
3.       Can’t be done

C.     A Solution – More Leaders (18.21-23)

1.       Levels of Leaders (efficient at 1:10; early church 30 members)
2.       Qualified Leaders – CAPABLE – Ability; FEAR God – Spiritual; TRUSTWORTHY – Honest/Integrity; HATE A Bribe – No Dishonest Gain (Ezekiel 34)

Qualifications Continue: Deacons – Acts 6; Elders – 1 Timothy 3; Titus 1

II.    The Delegation of Leadership (Matthew 10.1 – power given by another; not inherent)

A.     Acknowledge Limitations

1.       Community/Body (1 Corinthians 12.1) is significant
2.       No one can do everything; all can do something

[T-Shirt – “I know 2 things – There IS a God; and You are NOT Him!”

B.     Determine Priorities Eastern Flight 401

1.       Moses was called to Lead/Represent God to the People; People to God
2.       NOT to be a Counselor (Even Jesus understood this – Luke 12.13-15 ¹³ Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” ¹⁴ But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” ¹⁵ And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”)
3.       #1 Goal – get people to the Promised Land
4.       Examples

Apostles – Ministry of Word & Prayer

Elders – Ephesians 4.11-12 (People, not programs)

C.     Train Leaders

D.     Restrain Ego

1.       What do I give up to delegate?
2.       Is this about ME or Jesus?

E.     Accept Ultimate Responsibility

[Jethro did not tell Moses to take a vacation

1.       Be available
2.       Jimmy Carter – detail-oriented; scheduled use of White House tennis courts

III. Our Selection of Leadership – No Coin Toss

Methods:

A.     Casting Lots to Replace Judas (Acts 1) – Qualifications/Choices

B.     Deacons – Qualifications – select from the people (Acts 6)

C.     Elders – Qualifications – Timothy and Titus

D.     Hybrid Model – Qualifications – Preacher – PEOPLE

Remember, we are looking for Shepherds, not Administrators

1.       The process begins today
2.       Prayerfully consider anyone meeting the qualifications (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1) who are shepherding and could be shepherds within our congregation
3.       Remember, it is about ability; availability; and Spirituality
4.       It’s about SERVICE

Often when I come to an intersection, I think of the people who are meeting there. Some have come a long distance; some short. Yet, we have all arrived at the same time.

Arriving at the intersection, we all have decisions to make. Will we obey the laws or break them? Will we be courteous to other drivers or selfish?

As we travel on our journey through this world we often come to some serious intersections. We repeatedly come to intersections of the “broad” and “narrow” ways (Matthew 7:13-14). Each time we have an important decision to make. Do we choose the narrow way along with the “few” or do we choose the broad way with the “many”? Will we follow the instructions or refuse them? It is a serious choice that demands our attention and exercises our wisdom.

Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me” (John 14:6). Today, with the rising of the sun, we have made it to yet another intersection. Which road will we take?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Please share your response to one of the following with your Group:

• When are you the most happy? Do other people play into this happiness? Why or Why Not?
• How can people tell if you are angry? Is it usually easy or hard to tell?

Study

Please read Jeremiah 29:10-14 and share your responses to the following:

1. What seems to be the reason for the exile?
2. How do you think the goodness of God is attractive to people?
3. Do you think people are attracted to God to avoid his wrath?
4. What do you see as God’s primary purpose for us? What are some examples?
5. Why is it important that we do not procrastinate when it comes to following God? (James 4:13-14)
6. Why do you think God demands whole-hearted effort from us?

Apply

• Do you think God uses evil to accomplish good? Why? Why Not?
• When have you seen God bring good out of a bad situation?
• Is there an easy way to learn our lessons?
• Why do you think it takes 100% effort on our part to seek and find God?
• How do you KNOW God has your best in mind?
• What do you think it takes to find God?

2.      There is something within us that says we are important; that we want to rise higher than our current position

3.      God agrees – EACH one of us is important to God – Galatians 2.20 (the life I now live)

a.       We each have shortcomings

b.      We each have things to overcome

4.      Jeremiah 29.10-14

a.       Captivity of Judah

b.      Based on sinfulness of the people (see Jeremiah – no converts)

I.       God’s Good Intentions

A.     God Attracts Us by His Goodness

1.      Physical Necessities – (Matthew )

2.      Spiritual Necessities – “Son’s Reign”

B.     God Wants the BEST, not the Worst

1. Sometimes God DOES get angry – Moses’ Call
2.  He is seeking our good

Too often good intentions stay INTENTIONS – not with God. . .

II.    God’s Good Intentions Lead to God’s Good Actions

A.     God’s Purpose is to Act for Our Good

God Does NOT Forget His Purpose!

1.       We Do Not Always See what God is Doing – Genesis 50.20
2.       Not all is “good” – Romans 8.28
3.       Not our timeline – Moses 80 years; Joseph 30 years; Jesus 30 years
4.       But God makes great things happen – Ephesians 3.20

“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Corrie Ten Boom.

B.     God Delivered His People:

1.       From Egypt – he said he would
2.       From Babylon – He said he would
3.       From Sin and its consequences – he said he would

a.       Ultimate Sin Offering

b.      Ultimate Relationship (Note the New Covenant) – Jeremiah 31.31-34

III. God’s Good Actions Lead to Our Choices

A.     “Seek and Find” – Not “Hide and Seek”

1.       He Has Been Seeking Us and Wants Us to Find Him
2.       Turn Around – “Repent”
3.       No Procrastination – Proverbs 27.1 (James 4.13-14)

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.

B.     It IS Whole-Hearted Effort – Deuteronomy 6.4

1.       God is not our hobby/our convenience
2.       God is our life
3.       Jealous God – not second place

C.     To Be With His Whole People

1.       Gathering from Babylon
2.       Gathering in the world to come

Conclusion

1.       What does it take to find God? 1 Corinthians 13.13

a.       Faith – Hebrews 11.1; 11.6

b.      Hope – Assurance

c.       Love

2.      Things are not always as they seem –

a.       Judah was captive in Babylon (greatest country in the world) – coming home in 70 years;

b.      Joseph in Egypt – saved the nation; sent home via Moses

c.       Mordecai – Daniel – 3 Hebrew boys – Christ on the cross (stumbling block; foolishness)

d.      Effects of our sins

3.      Stop Running and start looking!

I was recently sitting in a restaurant and heard a bird chirping. Or, at least so I thought. It was actually a ringtone on someone’s cellphone. I could not help but think of all of the excellent tones people are using today (my phone is the sound of an old telephone – no imagination). These tones are an imitation of something or someone.

In 1820, Charles Caleb Colton coined the phrase that states: “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” Those words are still true. It is especially true for the life of a disciple of Jesus.

The Christian journey is not just a life that doesn’t “cuss or smoke or drink or chew or go with girls who do.” It is a life given to the imitation of Jesus himself. A disciple of a rabbi would give all he had to become just like his rabbi. That is what we are called to do. Paul said it this way to his disciples, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11.1)

This is especially evident in the trials we encounter. I understand that a jeweler has a sure-fire test to establish a diamond’s authenticity. He places the jewel under water. A true diamond will always out-sparkle an imitation. In fact the imitation will lose its sparkle.

Tests come and go. What do they reveal? They may reveal the real image of Jesus in our lives or they may reveal a cheap imitation. Who am I trying to imitate? What am I trying to become?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Acts 7.17-22

Moses was raised to deliver the nation – as was predicted in Genesis 15.13-14

¹³ Then the LORD said to Abram, “Know for certain that your offspring will be sojourners in a land that is not theirs and will be servants there, and they will be afflicted for four hundred years. ¹⁴ But I will bring judgment on the nation that they serve, and afterward they shall come out with great possessions.

I.       Moses Jumped the Gun

A.     Moses Was Esteemed

1.      He was Esteemed by God – 7.20

2.      He was Esteemed by his Parents (Exodus 2.2)

3.      He was Esteemed by Pharaoh’s Daughter

4.      He was Esteemed by Pharaoh (Acts 7.22)

• Mighty in Words and Deeds
• Groomed to be a leader in Egypt

5.      He Esteemed Himself

B.     Moses Expected a Following (7.23-25)

1.      Apparently Understood his destiny – a type of king to deliver Hebrews from affliction (7.18 cf. Exodus 1.7-8)

2.      Tried to right a wrong by doing wrong

• Did not see God at work and did not wait on him – Psalm 27.14
• [Do we ever deal with church issues in Moses’ manner?
• No one is trying to fix it – so I will; no one is looking and I assassinate a person’s character with a whisper campaign
• See Galatians 5.14-15
• What SHOULD we do?

3.      Rejected and Fled to Midian

4.      Good News – even when we make rash decisions God can still use us – in time; Moses needed more training – with the sheep

II.    Moses Tried to Dodge God’s Bullet

“Send Me a Sign” – Flaming Arrow, etc.

A.     An Enlightening Encounter – a Burning Bush

1.      Pattern for the Hebrews’ Menorah in Tabernacle/Temple

2.      God’s Lamp for Man’s Light

B.     Elaborate Excuses

It was Benjamin Franklin who said: “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.”

1.      Excuse #1 – Who Am I? – Exodus 3.10-11

a.       Already tried and failed

b.      “I am with you” – Exodus 3.13

2.      Excuse #2 – I Don’t Know Enough – Exodus 3.13

a.       Who knows it all? The more I study, the less I know

b.      God’s Assurance – Exodus 3.14-22

1)      YHWH

2)      The People will listen

3)      Pharaoh will even listen – eventually

3.      Excuse #3 – They Won’t Listen – Exodus 4.1-9

1)   Signs of Power

2)   Staff to snake to staff/hand leprous and back

4.      Excuse #4 – I Don’t Have the Gift – Exodus 4.10

a.       “Mighty in his words and deeds” (Acts 7.22) = talent

b.      Sheep?

c.       God’s Presence – Exodus 4.11-12

d.      God is not looking for ability, he is looking for availability

Availability, not Ability

Moses was old and shepherd of sheep on the backside of the desert. He failed at age 40 with his talent, rank and money to deliver his people. He tried to do it in his own strength. God moved into his life at age 80; not in the palace but in a pasture.

God does not need out talents, rank and money, He need us. When God gets us He gets everything else.

5.      Excuse #5 – I Don’t Want to get Involved – Exodus 4.13

III. Moses Was “On Target” with God (Acts 7.35-36)

A.     Solutions from an Angry God – Exodus 4.14-17

B.     Success from a Acquiescent Moses

Easy to criticize Moses

Aristotle wrote: “It’s easy to avoid criticism: all you have to do is say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.”

Rabbi Zusya years ago said, “In the world to come I will not be asked (by God), ’Why were you not Moses?’ I will be asked, ’Why were you not Zusya?’” B. Larsen, Luke, p. 42.

Please share your response to one of the following:

• What do you want to be remembered for?
• Are you comfortable going to dinner or a movie alone? How about a vacation? Why or why not?

Study

This study will come from Acts 7.17-44 and Exodus 3-4. Please refer to the appropriate texts as you discuss the following with your Group:

• How do you think Moses was viewed by others (Acts 7.20-22)? By God; His parents; etc.
• How do you envision his self-image before he left Egypt?
• What significance do you see with the burning bush? Why do you think it was represented in the Hebrews lamp (Menorah) in the tabernacle and temple?
• Which of Moses’ excuses (Exodus 3.10-4.13) seemed the lamest to you? The best?
• Why do you think God makes compromises for Moses and allows him to use Aaron (Exodus 4.14-17)?

Apply

• How might we imitate the bad example of Moses taking matters into his own hands?
• Do the ends ever justify the means?
• What typically happens when we do not do things God’s way?
• Why do you think God does not operate by a democratic process?
• In what ways does Moses effectively pursue God? How does this apply to us as a church? To you as a follower of Jesus?
• Since God does not ask you to be anything you are not, what do you need to do to be the person God made you?

Please share your response to one of the following:

• What is the worst thing that can happen if you take a risk and fail? What is the best thing that could happen if you take a risk and succeed?
• What is the worst rejection you have experienced? How did you handle it?
• Do you think it is possible to live with no regrets? Explain.

Study

Please read Acts 7.9-16 and discuss the following:

1. What were some of the reasons Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him? (See Genesis 37)
2. How do you think Joseph felt when he rose in status in Potiphar’s house (Genesis 39)? When he went to prison? When he became “second in command” in Egypt (Genesis 41)?
3. How do you think Joseph was able to endure his circumstances?
4. What do you think were his greatest struggles?
5. How does Joseph gift of dream interpretation become a “gift and a curse”?
6. How do you think Joseph gained wisdom in his life?
7. How do you think Joseph is able to honor God and not blame him in Genesis 50.20?

Apply

• What do you wish others knew/understood about you that you think they usually do not? How does the account of Joseph apply to your situation? What can you do to improve others’ view of you? Your lack of understanding with others?
• How is the Joseph account a lesson on parenting? On faith?
• What responsibilities do you see in connection with the abilities God gives us? (As Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams; Genesis 40.8; 41.16, 25, 32)
• How have you gained wisdom through your trials?
• How do YOU know God is in control, even in the dark times?

When the tides of life turn against you

And the current upsets your boat

Don’t waste those tears on what might have been

Just lie on your back and float.

• Joseph was a man who repeatedly who saw the tides of life turn against him. His boat was upset more than once. His difficulties would have crippled the faith of a lesser man. BUT, he didn’t sink and he didn’t even float. He overcame AND he rose above the waves of adversity. He overcame these difficulties because of his “philosophy of life” – a philosophy of life was nobler and wiser than that of Ed Norton.
•         There is more space devoted to Joseph in the book of Genesis than Abraham, Isaac, or Jacob
•         God does not speak against him at any point – even though he was imperfect (great encouragement in our Quest for God; we do not have to be perfect, just pursuing Him)

Acts 7.9-16

1. I.       Joseph Found Favor
   1. A.     With Jacob – Genesis 37.3

Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his sons, because he was the son of his old age. And he made him a robe of many colors [or long coat].

1.       Death of Rachel; Death of Isaac (Genesis 35)
2.       Comforted himself with Joseph

  B.     With God –

1.       Ability to Interpret Dreams –

a.       Attributes ability to God (40.8; 41.16, 25, 32)

b.      Remember where we get abilities

2.      Providential Protection

C.     With Egyptians

1.       Potiphar (39.1-6)a.       Young – 17

   b.      Good Character/work ethic

2. c.       God’s Favor Brings Potiphar Benefit – Genesis 39.5

2.      Prison Warden (39.21-23)

a.       In Charge of Prisoners

b.      Trustee

3.      Pharaoh (41.38-46)

a.       At age 30 Treated as a Prince in Egypt

b.      Second in command over the land

II.    Joseph Endured Fighting

A.     Joseph Started Off with (Over) Confidence

B.     He Had Some Serious Struggles

1.       His Brothers

2.      Mr. & Mrs. Potiphar/His Own Temptation (39.6b-8a)

•          The Hebrew people represented a DIFFERENT morality
•          Until the Hebrews people tended to be Amoral

 III. Joseph was Given Foresight

A.     The Dreams

1.      Right about His Family bowing before him

2.      Right about Baker and Butler

3.      Right about 7 years of plenty and 7 years of famine

B.     His Wisdom –

1.      In the Years of Plenty – stockpiling

2.      In the Famine (gathering riches for Egypt)

3.      In Dealing with his brothers

a.       Saves his family and the lineage of Yeshua (Jesus)

[Satan has always tried to destroy the people of God

 b.      Honors God – Genesis 50.20

[God’s ways are not always comfortable but they always ensure his success

4.      Wisdom Demonstrated by Joseph (and others) is from God – Proverbs 2.6

Yogi Bera, the famous catcher for the New York Yankees once said: “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’re likely to end up someplace else.”

Joseph was a man who knew where he was going.

He may not have known HOW he would get there, but he knew WHERE he was headed. At the age of 17, God had given him a vision. He had a vision that he would be man of great importance.

“Man’s Quest for God” depends on faith, not knowledge.

She said, “Go back to your room and drink lots of orange juice, take two aspirins, cover yourself with all the blankets you can find and sweat the cold out. I know what I’m talking about; I’m Billie Burke from Hollywood.” 

The man smiled and said, “Thanks.” Then he added, “By the way, I’m Dr. Mayo from the Mayo Clinic.”

When it comes to medical matters, I would prefer to take the advice of an esteemed doctor over that of a famous actress.

Likewise, when it comes to spiritual matters, we have choices. We can look to celebrities. We can look to those we regard as “wise”. We can look to the stars (astrology). We can even look to the angels. Or we can look to Jesus Christ. It should not be a difficult choice.

Jesus Christ is superior in every way (Hebrews 1.4; 3.56-6). He is the Son of God, the Lord of lords and King of kings.  He is God. He creates, sustains, governs, redeems and cleanses us of sin. He is the one to be worshiped by the angels. He is omniscient, omnipotent, unchanging and eternal. Why would you look anywhere else?

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” (John 14:6)

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

She said, “Go back to your room and drink lots of orange juice, take two aspirins, cover yourself with all the blankets you can find and sweat the cold out. I know what I’m talking about; I’m Billie Burke from Hollywood.” 

The man smiled and said, “Thanks.” Then he added, “By the way, I’m Dr. Mayo from the Mayo Clinic.”

When it comes to medical matters, I would prefer to take the advice of an esteemed doctor over that of a famous actress.

Likewise, when it comes to spiritual matters, we have choices. We can look to celebrities. We can look to those we regard as “wise”. We can look to the stars (astrology). We can even look to the angels. Or we can look to Jesus Christ. It should not be a difficult choice.

Jesus Christ is superior in every way (Hebrews 1.4; 3.56-6). He is the Son of God, the Lord of lords and King of kings.  He is God. He creates, sustains, governs, redeems and cleanses us of sin. He is the one to be worshiped by the angels. He is omniscient, omnipotent, unchanging and eternal. Why would you look anywhere else?

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” (John 14:6)

Isn’t it tempting to just coast along? We don’t get much or grow much, but it is comfortable. We just “rock along.”

Our challenge is to make our whole life count for God. When our here time is over, will we be able to say we did not hold back? Will we have put our whole effort into what God has placed before us?

Philippians 3.13-14 can inspire us: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Football players have a saying — “leave it all on the field.” It means that during the game they don’t hold anything back. Win or lose, their best effort is in the game, not the locker room. For what will our best efforts be?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

South Yukon Church of Christ

Please share your response to one of the following with your Group:

• When you discover a new interest do you tend to jump in with both feet or pace yourself? Give an example.
• Who is your favorite story teller? Why?
• What was your favorite bedtime story as a child?

Study

Please read Acts 7.2-8 and discuss the following:

• Why do you think Stephen begins his defense with Abraham? In what ways could his “Hellenistic” background have influenced this?
• If God called Abraham twice (once before Haran and once in Haran – see Genesis 11.31-12.1), what does this say about God? What does this say about Abraham?
• When God tested Abraham in the sacrifice of Isaac, what point was He making with Abraham? What did Abraham learn? What does this say about his faith (see also Hebrews 11.19)?
• How does the account of Isaac’s sacrifice parallel what God did in Jesus?
• In what ways did God reward Abraham (see Genesis 12.1-3)?

Apply

• What causes you to hold back in your walk with God? What can you do to “let go and let God” lead you?
• How does it affect you knowing that God works with us in our imperfections? – Does it energize you to live in the power of God’s grace? Does it make you slack off and take advantage of him?
• What ONE thing do you have trouble giving to God? What causes you to hold on to it?
• As a church, how can we learn to “leave it on the field”?

At 3:00 a.m. one cold morning a missionary candidate walked into an office for a scheduled interview with the examiner of a mission board. He waited until 8 a.m. when the examiner arrived. The examiner said, “Let us begin. First, please spell baker.” “B-a-k-e-r,” the young man spelled. “Very good. Now, let’s see what you know about figures. How much is twice two?” “Four,” replied the applicant. “Very good,” the examiner said. “I’ll recommend to the board tomorrow that you be appointed. You have passed the test.”

At the board meeting the examiner spoke highly of the applicant and said. “He has all the qualifications of a missionary. Let me explain. First, I tested him on self-denial. I told him to be at my house at three in the morning. He left a warm bed and came out in the cold without a word of complaint. Second, I tried him out on punctuality. He appeared on time. Third, I examined him on patience. I made him wait five hours to see me, after telling him to come at three. Fourth, I tested him on temper. He failed to show any sign of it; he didn’t even question my delay. Fifth, I tried his humility. I asked him questions that a small child could answer and he showed no offense. He meets the requirements and will make the missionary we need.” (7,700 Illustrations # 3461)

2.      In our Quest for God:

  a.       We are tested – To help us improve

  b.      To check our progress

3.      Abraham was called by God (Quest for Man) and Responded (Quest for God)

I.       God’s Persistent Attention to Abraham

  A.     God Called – Abram Responded – A Little

    1.      Mesopotamia and Haran – Acts 7.2; Genesis 11.31-12.1

    2.      God did not give up on his imperfect man

      a.       A work in progress

      b.      Lying about Sarah

      c.       Laughing about Isaac (17.17; S in 18.12)

      d.      Ishmael

Years ago, when John D. Rockefeller was running a gigantic empire known as the “Standard Oil Company,” one of the employees made a disastrous decision that cost the company more than $2 million. Fear swept through the company as everyone expected Rockefeller not only to fire the man responsible – but take out his wrath on them as well.

Edward T. Bedford, a partner in the company, was scheduled to see Rockefeller that day and as he entered he saw the this powerful man bent over his desk/ busily writing (with a pencil) on a pad of paper. Bedford stood silently, not wishing to interrupt. After a few minutes, Rockefeller looked up.

“Oh, it’s you, Bedford,” he said calmly. “I suppose you’ve heard about our loss?”

Bedford said that he had.

“I’ve been thinking it over,” Rockefeller said, “and before I ask the man in to discuss the matter, I’ve been making some notes.”

Bedford later told the story this way:

“Across the top of the page was written, ’Point in favor of Mr. ______.’ And there, underneath that title, was a long list of the man’s virtues, including a brief description of how he had helped the company make the right decision on 3 separate occasions. Decisions that had earned the company many times the cost of his recent error.

The man kept his job, and Bedford left the meeting forever changed in how he viewed other employees of the company.

Now, why did I tell you that story?

I told you that story so you’d understand how God viewed Abraham… and how He views us:

Yes, Abraham made mistakes

Yes, Abraham failed God on a number of occasions

Yes, Abraham had a past filled with miserable disappointments…

BUT God didn’t look at Abraham to see his past, God looked at Abraham, to see his potential. He looked him to see his possibilities.

  B.     His Perseverance Resulted in his title, “Friend of God” (James 2.23; 2 Chronicles 20.7; Isaiah 41.8)

    1.      Faithfulness

    2.      NOT perfection

II.    God’s Penetrating Assessment of Abraham (Genesis 22.1-19)

  A.     Clarification of His Progress

    1.      God saw Abraham’s progress

    2.      God Showed Abraham his progress

  B.     Consecration of His Possessions

    1.      God asked for his most valued possession – his one and only son (Genesis 22.2)

First use of “love”

Unique son – supernatural element

    2.      All Abraham’s possessions had come from God – including Isaac

    3.      How could Abraham withhold from God the only thing He was asking from him after God had protected him from Pharaoh (Genesis 12:17) to Abimelech (Genesis 20:3), from famine (Genesis 12:10) to warfare (Genesis 14:15), from Chaldee to Canaan?

    4.      What is your most valuable possession? Can you give it to God? If not, that is an idol in your life; RYR (Matthew 19.16-22)

  C.     Culmination of His Priorities

    1.      Preparation

Wood ON Isaac – foreshadows the cross on Yeshua

Fire – foreshadows the torment of Yeshua

Knife – foreshadows the blood of the lamb

    2.      Location – Mt. Moriah (22.2) – temple

    3.      Replacement – God to provide the lamb (22.8)

      a.       Passover Lamb – Exodus; crucifixion

      b.      Ram’s Horn (22.13)

Shofar/Trumpet – call to worship/war

Crown of thorns

    4.      Reward for Abraham

      a.       Life of Isaac (able to resurrect – Hebrews 11.19 – figuratively received him from dead – foreshadow of Yeshua)

      b.      Multiplication of descendants

      c.       Land of promise to descendants

      d.      Blessing for nations (in Yeshua)

      e.       BECAUSE he HEARD/OBEYED the voice of God (Genesis 22.18; 26.4-5)

In Our Quest for God we remember to put our faith into practice!

Don’t Hold Back

Bertoldo de Giovanni is a name even the most enthusiastic lover of art is unlikely to recognize. He was the pupil of Donatello, the greatest sculptor of his time, and he was the teacher of Michelangelo, the greatest sculptor of all time. Michelangelo was only 14 years old when he came to Bertoldo, but it was already obvious that he was enormously gifted. Bertoldo was wise enough to realize that gifted people are often tempted to coast rather than grow, and therefore he kept trying to pressure his young prodigy to work seriously at his art. One day he came into the studio to find Michelangelo toying with a piece of sculpture far beneath his abilities. Bertoldo grabbed a hammer, stomped across the room, and smashed the work into tiny pieces, shouting this unforgettable message, “Michelangelo, talent is cheap; dedication is costly!” (Gary Inrig, A Call to Excellence)

Too often Christians are just like Michelangelo in that we simply coast through worship service by simply going through the motions. Going through the motions of singing songs and taking notes is cheap; dedication to true worship is costly.

Football players have a saying — “leave it all on the field.” It means that during the game they don’t hold anything back.

Lesson for us as we walk with God – Don’t hold back!

The son answered, “Two.”

“No,” the dad replied, “There are three frogs and one decides to jump, how many are left?”

“Oh, I get it,” the son said, “It’s like peer pressure, if one decides to jump, they will all jump. So, there would be none left.”

“No, son, the answer is three. One frog only DECIDED to jump.” The dad responded.

Does that sound like any New Year’s resolutions you have heard of? Too often we DECIDE we will make some changes but either we fail to begin or we start and do not follow through.

Maybe weight loss is your resolution. Maybe it is something even more important, getting your relationship back on track with God. Don’t just make the decision, make the decision count and follow through!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

South Yukon Church of Christ

Jesus told a parable in Luke 19.11-27 in which a ruler gave money to ten servants. They were to “occupy” (KJV), or “do business” or “busy themselves” until her returned. Some of the servants were productive, at least one was not. Each was rewarded accordingly. The achievers were given privilege and more responsibility. The unproductive one lost what he had (not vice versa).

Jesus IS returning for a day of accounting. While we are of differing abilities (Matthew 25.14-30), he has entrusted us with a common task while we wait: do business/occupy with the message of the Kingdom of Heaven (1 Thessalonians 2.4; 1 Timothy 1.11; 6.20).

We are not to be idle as we wait for the return of Jesus; we are to be on the offensive to advance his Kingdom (Matthew 16.18). His disciples have tasks to do. We are taught to love God supremely – that is action, not just emotion. We are to actively love our neighbors as ourselves. We care for those who need (Matthew 25.31ff).

The business of the Kingdom of Heaven is different than the business of Wall Street. In fact, God’s business is far more important, far more significant! The Kingdom of Heaven is faith business that impacts the now as well as the eternal. With what are you occupied?

Keep The Light Burning

Perry Greene

South Yukon Church of Christ

Please share with your Group your response to ONE of the following:

• As a child did you ever run away from home or want to run away? Where did you go or want to go?
• What is one thing you dream of trying if you knew you could not fail and money was not an issue?

Study

Please read Luke 15.11-32 and discuss the following:

• Why do you think the younger son wanted to leave home?
• What are some significant things about:

• The son’s request?
• The father’s gift?
• The father looking for his son?
• The father RUNNING to his son?
• The father restoring his son?
• The father throwing a party?
• What brings the young son to his senses?

Apply

• With whom do you most identify in this story? (Father; Older Son; Younger Son) – Why?
• How is this story a picture of what Jesus was doing?
• In what ways have you been like the “prodigal”? What snapped you out of your delusions?
• What can we do to help modern “prodigals” return home? In what ways could this be awkward for us?

Please share your response to one of the following with your group:

• What is the most expensive item you have ever lost? Found?
• What was your first nickname?

Study

Please read Luke 15.8-10 and discuss the following:

• Why do you think that losing ONE coin was such a big deal to this woman?
• How does this coin represent repentance and salvation for us?
• Who does the woman represent in the story?
• In what ways is this significant? How is it unusual?
• What is important about the woman admitting that she lost the coin?
• Why was the coin hard to find?
• What is the reason Jesus mentioned the woman lighting the lamp?

Apply

• What is the key point Jesus is making with this story (and whole chapter)?
• How do you feel knowing that God has expended immense energy and resources to find YOU?
• When you have been found by God, what motivations do you have?

1.        Background – Yeshua’s (Jesus’) critics are offended with the company he keeps
2.       He uses “Lost & Found” stories to help them understand his purpose – to seek and save the lost (Luke 19.10; Ezekiel 34)
3.        The first story – a sheep is lost from its shepherd and the shepherd goes into the wilderness after it
4.       This story – a woman loses a coin and searches until she finds it

I.      The Object of the Quest

A.     The Pursuit of People (Luke 19.10; Ezekiel 34)

1.    Created by in the image of God – image on coin?
2.    Value expressed – lost sheep; lost coin

              a.       May have represented 1 of 10 coins on a woman’s wedding attire – never to be taken from her; similar to wedding rings and diamond sets; sentimental value?  Jeremiah 2.32

             b.      May have represented a day’s wages – survival (daily bread)/10 days’ savings; this is evidence of stewardship if the woman, entrusted with this money as the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31;

B.     The Prominence of the Words of God (Proverbs 2.1-5

1. We seek earthly things – silver & gold; Of how much more value is the eternal – God’s word?
2. These critics needed to do some Torah-searching for themselves – they were forgetting such things as “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19.18)    a.       In dealing with sinners there is the temptation to avoid them so as not to fall into temptation

       b.      In dealing with sinners there is the duty to restore them

                c.       Then again, who isn’t a sinner? – Luke 15.7 (humor of Yeshua)

II.                The Effort of the Quest

A.     There was a Cost – lit lamp; used oil and wicks – significant to the poor

B.     There was Exertion – sweeping straw/dirt/stone floor – basalt in Capernaum

• Lay bare the floor
• Open selves to God

C.     There was Diligence – Not an Easy Task

1. Dark Houses (stone/small or no windows – required lamps)
2. Small Houses – 1 car garage
3. Tireless love of God

       4.  Woman stopped all of her chores to search – what is God doing today?

III.             The Initiator of the Quest

A.     A Responsibility – “I lost the coin”

1. A Critique of the Leaders of the Nation – Losing the people
2. did not seem to care

B.     A Representation

1. God has a feminine side – YHWH – ½ is masculine/1/2 is feminine
2. Cares for us as a mother to her children – Isaiah 49.13-16

IV.              The Conclusion of the Quest — Celebration

A.     The Thrill of the Find

B.     The Relief of Restoration

With God the JOY is REAL!

Conclusion

1. This and the other stories in this chapter give us insight into the heart of God.
2. EVERY person matters to God, EVERY ONE of us!
3. Have you ever interrupted someone? How do you feel? How were you made to feel?
4. You are not an interruption to God – you are the most important thing in the world to him!

God seeks and finds but we still have the choice as to how we will respond to him.

When we think of Jesus we think of a mighty king and a humble servant. We see him serving through his teaching; through healings; through his ability to raise people from the darkness of despair. Ultimately his servant’s heart would take him to the cross to express the love of God in his death, burial, and resurrection.

One of the most enjoyable things I have been a part of was a recent celebration of the volunteer servants at the South Yukon congregation. We had a nice Chick-Fil-A catered breakfast, some amusing entertainment, some gifts, and a presentation of a towel to people who have given their time and energies to a cause beyond themselves. This towel is a reminder of our call to service.

Without our willing servants, our churches cannot function. Where do they get their motivation? What makes them want to sacrificially give of themselves? Why do they “pick up the towel”? It is an imitation of the one who sacrificially served them!

Which side of the towel are you on?

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

This story is not unique to our community. Over the years we have heard of many intense search and rescue missions. Each branch of the military has stories of finding the misplaced. This is because people are important!

These stories remind me of a great lesson that Jesus taught in Luke 15:1-7. He told of a shepherd who had lost a sheep. Instead of cutting his losses, he left the remaining ninety-nine and went into the dangers of the wilderness to find the one lost sheep. When he found the sheep, he carried it home and had a great celebration with his friends and neighbors.

In the grand scheme of things some of us may be like the lost sheep of the story. We know we are lost, but are clueless as to how to go home without the leading of our Shepherd. The reality is that God has initiated the search process and mapped out the way of salvation for us. His grace is so strong that it is as if he is carrying us to a great celebration of salvation!

This week’s sermon deals with this great story. I am calling it, “Sometimes I Get Carried Away!” Come and share in the truth that God cares intensely for YOU! YOU are important to him! How important? Enough to give his all!

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

South Yukon Church of Christ

1. Survivor Eva Hart remembers the night, April 15, 1912, on which the Titanic plunged 12,000 feet to the Atlantic floor, some two hours and forty minutes after an iceberg tore a 300-foot gash in the starboard side: “I saw all the horror of its sinking, and I heard, even more dreadful, the cries of drowning people.” Although twenty life-boats and rafts were launched-too few and only partly filled-most of the passengers ended up struggling in the icy seas while those in the boats waited a safe distance away.
   Lifeboat No. 14 did row back to the scene after the unsinkable ship slipped from sight at 2:20 A.M. Alone, it chased cries in the darkness, seeking and saving a precious few. Incredibly, no other boat joined it. Some were already overloaded, but in virtually every other boat, those already saved rowed their half-filled boats aimlessly in the night, listening to the cries of the lost. Each feared a crush of unknown. Swimmers would cling to their craft, eventually swamping it.
2.  One of the Impressive things about our God is how much he cares about us. HE initiates our relationship with him

•            Adam – “Where are you?”
•            Abram

       3.      Luke 15.1-7

I.                   The Defiant Disapproval

A.     Scribes and Pharisees

1.      Knew the Torah (specially trained scribes copied; Pharisees studied it and oral law)

2.      5 Bad Pharisees and 2 Good; Yeshua (Jesus) close to Pharisees in Theology

3.      Zealots were a branch of the Pharisees – impatient with God – “DIY”

4.      “Separated Ones”

a.       Separate from Sadducees/Priest – sold out to Rome/Hellenism (no EL)

b.      Separate from sin and sinful people – holiness issues/uncleanness

B.     Misunderstanding God  Isaiah 65.1

Samuel Colgate, the founder of the Colgate business empire, was a devout Christian. During an evangelistic service that he’d attended, an invitation was given at the close of the sermon for all those who wished to turn their lives over to Christ and be forgiven.

One of the first persons to walk down the aisle was a well-known prostitute. She wept openly as she expressed her desire to become a Christian and to become a member of this church. For a few moments, the silence was deafening. This was in the days when some churches “voted” on whether a person would be accepted into their congregation, and it became apparent that these people weren’t sure they wanted her in their church.

Apparently Samuel Colgate understood this. Maybe he was even thinking of these parables (in Luke) when arose and said, “I guess we blundered when we prayed that the Lord would save sinners. We forgot to specify what kind of sinners.

We’d better ask him to forgive us for this oversight. The Holy Spirit has touched this woman and made her truly repentant, but the Lord apparently doesn’t understand that she’s not the type we want him to rescue. We’d better spell out for him just which sinners we had in mind.”

Almost immediately, a motion was made and unanimously approved that the woman be accepted into membership in the congregation.

Paul wrote in I Corinthians 6:9-11

1.      By misunderstanding the nature of God, they misunderstood the mission of the Messiah (Luke 19.10)

2.      By misunderstanding the nature of God, they misunderstood their mission – instead of seeking lost sinners they kept to themselves in their religious club

II.                The Searching Shepherd (A Picture of Messiah/God)

The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employees home telephone number and was greeted with a child’s whispered, “Hello?”

The boss asked, “Is your Daddy home?”
“Yes,” whispered the small voice.
“May I talk with him?” the man asked.
To the boss’ surprise, the small voice whispered, “No.”
The boss persisted, “Is your Mommy there?”
“Yes,” came the answer.
“May I talk with her?”
Again, the small voice whispered, “No.”
“Well, is there someone else there I might talk to?” the boss asked the child.
“Yes,” whispered the child, “a policeman.”
“Well then, may I speak with the policeman?”
“No,” whispered the child “he is busy”
“Busy doing what?” asked the boss.
“Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the Fireman,” came the whispered answer.
Now the boss was growing concerned and just then he heard what sounded like a helicopter through the ear piece on the phone, the boss asked, “What is that noise?”
“A hello-copper,” answered the whispering voice.
Alarmed, the boss nearly shouted: “What is going on there?”
In an awed whispering voice, the child answered, “The search team just landed the hello-copper!”
“Why are they there?”
There was a muffled giggle as the child said, “They are looking for me!”

A.     Sees the Value in ONE Sheep

1.      Left 99 to find the ONE

2.      Took Risks in the Wilderness

a.       Dangerous animals; terrain; thirst; hunger

b.      Yeshua encountered the Adversary in the wilderness (Matthew 4; Luke 4)

B.     Has Compassion on ONE Sheep

³He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.  Psalm 23.3

1.      RESTORES my soul – repentance; to go from waywardness to paths of righteousness

2.      Relief when retrieved – Isaiah 40.11

He will tend his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms;
he will carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead those that are with young.

C.     A Depiction of Yeshua (Jesus)

1.      Good Shepherd – John 10.11

2.      Shepherd who seeks his sheep – Luke 19.10

a.       Reference to Ezekiel 34.11ff

b.      Condemns bad shepherds and does the work himself

c.       Carries the helpless home

III.             The Community Celebration

Several years ago the city of Pittsburgh constructed a large, new post office at the cost of several million dollars. On the day of its opening, the Governor made a speech, the bands played and the people cheered. It was quite a celebration.

But when the first man entered to mail a letter, to the embarrassment of the engineers, it was discovered that in the rush to meet the deadline, they had omitted the usual letter drop. Here was a costly new post office, but no place to mail a letter! It was a slight omission, but it negated the very reason for its existence.

A.     The Return Home

1.      Sheep is Safe

2.      The Shepherd is Successful

B.     The Focus of the Party – the Found Sheep

1.      Saved from Disuse – while lost of no value

(sheep are not smart/have no sense of direction)

2.      Saved from Danger (sheep are defenseless)

3.      Saved from Death – given new life

1.      A man was walking down a deserted Mexican beach at sunset. As he walked along, he began to see another man in the distance. As he grew nearer, he noticed that the local native kept leaning down, picking something up and throwing it out into the water. Time and again, he kept hurling things out into the ocean.

As the man approached even closer, he noticed that the man was picking up starfish that had been washed up on the beach and, one at a time, he was throwing them back into the water.

The man was puzzled. He approached the man and said, “Good evening, friend. I was wondering what you are doing.”

“I’m throwing these starfish back into the ocean. You see, it’s low tide right now and all of these starfish have been washed up onto the shore. If I don’t throw them back into the sea, they’ll die up here from lack of oxygen.”

“I understand,” the man replied, “but there must be thousands of starfish on this beach. You can’t possibly get to all of them. There are simply too many. And don’t you realize this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down this coast. Can’t you see that you can’t possibly make a difference?”

The local native smiled, bent down and picked up yet another starfish, and as he threw it back into the sea, he replied, “Made a difference to that one!”

2.      WE are like the lost sheep

All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53.6

3.      How important is each of us?

a.       Important enough for God to come after us

b.      Important enough for Yeshua to die and rise for us

4.      The Bible tells us to seek God because he is seeking us

Seek the LORD while he may be found;
call upon him while he is near; Isaiah 55.6

You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29.13

(That is what he has done for us)

5.  Sheep was lost and did not know how to get home – shepherd came to the rescue!