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Hosea accuses Israel of breaking their covenant with God, and warns them of the tragic consequences to follow. The Northern Kingdom of Israel enjoyed moderate success from conquering neighboring kingdoms, but they were spiritually bankrupt on the inside. In the Book of Hosea, God sends Hosea to Israel during King Jeroboam II's reign to admonish them of their wrongs in perpetual idol worship and dependence on outside nations.
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What God Wants From Us
Why does God want a relationship with us? Let’s take a closer look at the book of Hosea.
Reflect
God promises to love Israel like a husband vows to love his bride. But Israel didn’t love him back—they cheated on him. This broke God’s heart but not his promise. God’s commitment to love his people is stronger than anything else. So while Israel still experienced the consequences of their unfaithfulness, God called them to remember his love and promised to heal the relationship. Jesus came to fulfill that promise for Israel and for us. And it’s because of Jesus that our hearts can be healed to faithfully love God in return. Let’s reflect more on this together.
Go Deeper
Hosea 14:1-9 Read
Why does God want a relationship with us? Let’s take a closer look at the book of Hosea.
Reflect
God promises to love Israel like a husband vows to love his bride. But Israel didn’t love him back—they cheated on him. This broke God’s heart but not his promise. God’s commitment to love his people is stronger than anything else. So while Israel still experienced the consequences of their unfaithfulness, God called them to remember his love and promised to heal the relationship. Jesus came to fulfill that promise for Israel and for us. And it’s because of Jesus that our hearts can be healed to faithfully love God in return. Let’s reflect more on this together.
- God wants to relate to us like a loving spouse not as a demanding boss. What are some of the key differences between these two relationships?
- What comes to your mind as you think about God’s unrelenting love for you?
- What might change in your relationship with God if you loved him the same way you’d want a spouse to love you? Think about it.
Go Deeper
Hosea 14:1-9 Read
- Review verse 1 and 3. As you reflect on your past, what is one specific way you placed your trust outside of God’s counsel to protect yourself? What do you think that choice cost you and others?
- Review verse 2. How has seeking God’s forgiveness helped you and others heal from the cost of mistrust? What does relying on God’s grace and forgiveness practically look like for you?
- Jesus came to fulfill God’s healing promise. Review verses 4 through 8. Carefully reflect on the metaphors listed in this passage. What does dew produce in plant life? How is that similar to what the healing love of Jesus produces in the lives of his people? (Bonus: Read Hosea 10:12-13, Galatians 5:22, and John 15:4-9)
- Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your gratitude for God’s desire to be in an intimate and committed relationship with you. Admit any ways that you or your community might be committed to something besides God. Ask for his forgiveness and seek his help to trust and faithfully respond to his healing love.
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Message of the Prophets Who are the Hebrew prophets? And why are they so intense? |
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Reflect
Isaiah 1:8-20 Read here
Psalm 51:7-17 Read here
Prophets are God’s messengers, called to speak to people on his behalf. Their messages demonstrate just how much God desires to be close to his people. God wants his people to flourish, to experience peace and joy, but sin gets in the way. So God sends prophets to warn his people and urge them to turn from sin and its destruction. When Israel doesn’t listen, they experience the consequences of their own ways, just like the prophets warned. But when Israel listens, they receive God’s promised mercy. And we can too. If we are honest about our sins and want to leave them behind, God will forgive us—completely. That’s how God wants to show his faithfulness and justice to people. He forgives everyone who humbly comes to him.
Feel free to focus on just a few reflections right now or meditate all throughout the week by focusing on one reflection per day.
Dive Deeper
1 John 1:5-9 Read here
Isaiah 1:8-20 Read here
Psalm 51:7-17 Read here
Prophets are God’s messengers, called to speak to people on his behalf. Their messages demonstrate just how much God desires to be close to his people. God wants his people to flourish, to experience peace and joy, but sin gets in the way. So God sends prophets to warn his people and urge them to turn from sin and its destruction. When Israel doesn’t listen, they experience the consequences of their own ways, just like the prophets warned. But when Israel listens, they receive God’s promised mercy. And we can too. If we are honest about our sins and want to leave them behind, God will forgive us—completely. That’s how God wants to show his faithfulness and justice to people. He forgives everyone who humbly comes to him.
Feel free to focus on just a few reflections right now or meditate all throughout the week by focusing on one reflection per day.
- Compare Isaiah 1:10-20 with Psalm 51:7-17. What similarities do you notice? What does God want more than rituals of worship (see Psalm 51:16-17)?
- Review Isaiah 1:18 in light of verse 15. Why is their sin pictured as being “red”? Now read Revelation 7:14 and Ephesians 1:6-7. What is unique about the blood of Jesus?
- The phrase “white as snow” is used to describe Jesus’ own appearance (Daniel 7:9, Matthew 28:3). What comes to mind when you consider how God made a way for you to appear as pure as Jesus?
Dive Deeper
1 John 1:5-9 Read here
- God is faithful and just to forgive sin that’s yielded to him. How do you understand the concept of justice? How do you think Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross helps us understand how justice and forgiveness can work together?
- God wants his people to thrive in a relationship with him and with one another. So he sends his prophets to protect the relationship from the destructive consequences of sin. What does this reveal about God’s character?
- What is one example of how sin has hindered your relationship with God and others in the past?
- Are there any sins that are hindering your relationships now? Do you need to change course or apologize to someone today? Take some time to be real with God about that in prayer. Receive the peace of his forgiveness and start new today.
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What Good News Looks Like This week we consider God’s commitment to renew the world. |
Reflect
Jesus read from Isaiah 61 to describe what it looks like when the good news of his Kingdom is at work in the world. The ignored are honored, the poor are fed, and the sick receive care. These are the kind of things that happen wherever followers of Jesus honor him as King. Let’s reflect more on this together.
Go Deeper
Isaiah 61:1-11 Read here
Jesus read from Isaiah 61 to describe what it looks like when the good news of his Kingdom is at work in the world. The ignored are honored, the poor are fed, and the sick receive care. These are the kind of things that happen wherever followers of Jesus honor him as King. Let’s reflect more on this together.
- Where do you think renewal is most needed in your part of the world?
- Imagine God’s Kingdom bringing renewal to that situation. What do you think it would look like?
- You and your community can partner with Jesus to revive this situation. Let’s move forward together, remembering that small steps are significant. No matter how small, what's one specific step you can take today to bring renewal?
Go Deeper
Isaiah 61:1-11 Read here
- In Luke 4:16-22, we learn that one day after Jesus finished reading Isaiah 61 in the synagogue, he said, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” From what you’ve learned about Jesus so far, how does his life match the description of the Messiah in Isaiah 61?
- Review the first three verses of today’s passage. What are the specific actions the Messiah is anointed to do in the world? How could each of those actions practically impact your community today? List some specific examples.
- Notice that those who receive the Messiah’s restorative help (Isaiah 61:1-3a) become the people who help to restore others (Isaiah 61:3b-4). How have you been restored by Jesus and how are you passing that restoration on to others?
- Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your gratitude for what Jesus came to do. Invite his restoring work into your life and community, and ask for renewed trust and courage to cooperate with him.
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What God Does about Suffering
Dr. Tim Mackie Why does God allow so much suffering in the world? And is he doing anything about it? In this study, we look at God’s mission to counteract evil and suffering through his partnership with humanity. Why does God allow so much suffering in the world? And is he doing anything about it? In this Bible study, we look at God’s mission to counteract evil and suffering through his partnership with humanity. Like any real partnership, it comes with real-world consequences. To join us, listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible to 2 Kings, and interact with the questions below. |
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Read and Discuss
Reflection 1
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 2 Kings 25:8-122, Kings 25:27-30, Romans 8:22-39
The Bible doesn’t answer all of our questions about why God allows suffering, but it does tell us a story about how God responds to human suffering. God has chosen to partner with humans to deliver communities from suffering, and he chose to enter our pain by becoming human himself. Jesus took up the worst of human suffering, shoved it into a grave, and rose again to give us a new future—one that’s free of injustice and grief. But our questions around suffering are still valid. God hears us and understands our pain. Today, let’s tune into the question God has for us. As we face suffering in the world, will we partner with him to be a part of his solution?
Feel free to reflect on all the questions, or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: The Babylonian captivity was full of chaos and sorrow. Today’s readings from 2 Kings offer small glimpses of hope that show how God was not done blessing his people. How do these moments of hope point to the blessing God would one day make full for his people?
Reflection 2: Review today’s passage from Romans. What are some of the hopes we have in the midst of our suffering? How did God show us his love through his own suffering?
Reflection 3: What is one way your community is suffering right now?
Reflection 4: As you observe and grieve the suffering around you, what are some glimpses of hope you notice?
Reflection 5: Consider God’s character of justice, mercy, and love. How does he want to comfort and restore your community?
Reflection 6: What is one step you can take this week to reflect God’s character and join in his plan of restoration for your community?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer now. Point out areas of pain and glimpses of hope in your community. Ask for hope to expand and for all his restoration plans to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Reflection 1
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 2 Kings 25:8-122, Kings 25:27-30, Romans 8:22-39
The Bible doesn’t answer all of our questions about why God allows suffering, but it does tell us a story about how God responds to human suffering. God has chosen to partner with humans to deliver communities from suffering, and he chose to enter our pain by becoming human himself. Jesus took up the worst of human suffering, shoved it into a grave, and rose again to give us a new future—one that’s free of injustice and grief. But our questions around suffering are still valid. God hears us and understands our pain. Today, let’s tune into the question God has for us. As we face suffering in the world, will we partner with him to be a part of his solution?
Feel free to reflect on all the questions, or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: The Babylonian captivity was full of chaos and sorrow. Today’s readings from 2 Kings offer small glimpses of hope that show how God was not done blessing his people. How do these moments of hope point to the blessing God would one day make full for his people?
Reflection 2: Review today’s passage from Romans. What are some of the hopes we have in the midst of our suffering? How did God show us his love through his own suffering?
Reflection 3: What is one way your community is suffering right now?
Reflection 4: As you observe and grieve the suffering around you, what are some glimpses of hope you notice?
Reflection 5: Consider God’s character of justice, mercy, and love. How does he want to comfort and restore your community?
Reflection 6: What is one step you can take this week to reflect God’s character and join in his plan of restoration for your community?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer now. Point out areas of pain and glimpses of hope in your community. Ask for hope to expand and for all his restoration plans to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
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The Royal Priest
Royal Priests of Eden Did you know that Israel’s tabernacle was designed as a symbolic garden of Eden? And did you know that Adam and Eve were proto-priests who lived and worked in the sacred space? Explore God’s plan for humanity to serve as royal priests over all creation. What is God’s ideal calling for humans? God calls all humans to be royal priests, representing his character and presence to the world. Learn more about priests in the Bible here. In this series, we’ll explore God’s plan for humans to serve as royal priests over creation, and we’ll learn how Jesus fulfilled that plan after humans forfeited their vocation. |
What is a priest?
A priest cares for the sacred space of the temple, represents the people to God, and announces God’s blessing over the people. The high priest is the only one who can enter the innermost part of the tabernacle, the holy of holies. This is where God’s presence dwells and the priest mediates that presence to the people.
The biblical authors use Eden imagery to describe the temple, making it clear that God’s ideal calling for humans is to be royal priests over creation—God’s cosmic temple. Even though humans forfeited their priestly vocation through rebellion in
Genesis 3, Jesus fulfills God’s plan and restores humanity to their role as royal priests. The biblical story contains a priestly drama that leads to Jesus, and that’s what this video series is all about.
A gateway between Heaven and Earth
Priests embody God’s wisdom and fully experience God’s presence in the temple. They act as gateways between Heaven and Earth. And when humans live into their vocation as royal priests, all of creation becomes a sacred space where Heaven and Earth intersect.
If humans are God’s royal priests, where is our temple?
Priests care for the sacred space of the temple. And humans are the royal priests who are to care for the sacred space of God’s creation. We are called to work and worship so that our communities can flourish. We represent God’s presence so his Heaven-on-Earth blessings flow into the world.
A priest cares for the sacred space of the temple, represents the people to God, and announces God’s blessing over the people. The high priest is the only one who can enter the innermost part of the tabernacle, the holy of holies. This is where God’s presence dwells and the priest mediates that presence to the people.
The biblical authors use Eden imagery to describe the temple, making it clear that God’s ideal calling for humans is to be royal priests over creation—God’s cosmic temple. Even though humans forfeited their priestly vocation through rebellion in
Genesis 3, Jesus fulfills God’s plan and restores humanity to their role as royal priests. The biblical story contains a priestly drama that leads to Jesus, and that’s what this video series is all about.
A gateway between Heaven and Earth
Priests embody God’s wisdom and fully experience God’s presence in the temple. They act as gateways between Heaven and Earth. And when humans live into their vocation as royal priests, all of creation becomes a sacred space where Heaven and Earth intersect.
If humans are God’s royal priests, where is our temple?
Priests care for the sacred space of the temple. And humans are the royal priests who are to care for the sacred space of God’s creation. We are called to work and worship so that our communities can flourish. We represent God’s presence so his Heaven-on-Earth blessings flow into the world.
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Redeeming Disappointment
Dr. Carissa Quinn What should we do when people we look up to really disappoint us? What should we do when people we look up to really disappoint us? In this study, we look at the book of Kings, where we discover a long line of disappointing leaders. It’s painful when someone we admire lets us down. So what do we do? Let’s reflect together. Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below. |
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Read and Discuss
Reflection 1:Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 1 Kings 6:23-31The book of Kings reflects on how Israel ended up in exile. The kings failed. The people walked out on the one true God and worshiped idols that couldn’t save them. But God would still keep his promise. The promised King would still come. This King would be the true David and a better Solomon. He would lead God’s people with wisdom, unite the nations, and make a way for God’s presence to be with his people. And this is exactly who Jesus is. He is the promised and perfect King. So wherever people disappoint, King Jesus is right there, inviting us into the beauty of his temple—his perfect presence.
Let’s reflect more on this together. Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: As you review today’s passage, what garden imagery do you notice?
Reflection 2: Read Psalm 80:1 and Psalm 99:1 and note where God’s presence is enthroned. Compare today’s passage with Genesis 3:24. What did the cherubim guard in the garden and in the temple?
Reflection 3: The cherubim guarded the curtain entrance to the holy of holies (see Exodus 26:31-34, 2 Chronicles 3:10-14). With this in mind, read Matthew 27:50-51, Hebrews 10:19-21, and Hebrews 6:19-20. How did Jesus’ death impact the entrance to the holy place, and how is this significant?
Reflection 4: No one could do what Jesus accomplished in his death and resurrection. Where people fall short, Jesus measures up. Are you disappointed with someone right now? Take some time to express exactly how you feel in a prayer to God right now.
Reflection 5: How has Jesus faced similar disappointments? Remember, he’s felt betrayal and disappointment just like you. Think about it and take some time to empathize with him.
Reflection 6: Jesus’ perfect presence can heal our disappointments. Are you ready to forgive the person who disappointed you? What specific characteristic of Jesus can you rely on in place of your disappointment? What could it look like for you to spend time this week to intentionally remember this characteristic of Jesus?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer now. Express your gratitude to Jesus for opening the doors to freely receive the presence of God. Be honest about the places in your life that need his mercy, forgive others who need your mercy, and appoint his character to cover every area of disappointment.
Reflection 1:Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 1 Kings 6:23-31The book of Kings reflects on how Israel ended up in exile. The kings failed. The people walked out on the one true God and worshiped idols that couldn’t save them. But God would still keep his promise. The promised King would still come. This King would be the true David and a better Solomon. He would lead God’s people with wisdom, unite the nations, and make a way for God’s presence to be with his people. And this is exactly who Jesus is. He is the promised and perfect King. So wherever people disappoint, King Jesus is right there, inviting us into the beauty of his temple—his perfect presence.
Let’s reflect more on this together. Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: As you review today’s passage, what garden imagery do you notice?
Reflection 2: Read Psalm 80:1 and Psalm 99:1 and note where God’s presence is enthroned. Compare today’s passage with Genesis 3:24. What did the cherubim guard in the garden and in the temple?
Reflection 3: The cherubim guarded the curtain entrance to the holy of holies (see Exodus 26:31-34, 2 Chronicles 3:10-14). With this in mind, read Matthew 27:50-51, Hebrews 10:19-21, and Hebrews 6:19-20. How did Jesus’ death impact the entrance to the holy place, and how is this significant?
Reflection 4: No one could do what Jesus accomplished in his death and resurrection. Where people fall short, Jesus measures up. Are you disappointed with someone right now? Take some time to express exactly how you feel in a prayer to God right now.
Reflection 5: How has Jesus faced similar disappointments? Remember, he’s felt betrayal and disappointment just like you. Think about it and take some time to empathize with him.
Reflection 6: Jesus’ perfect presence can heal our disappointments. Are you ready to forgive the person who disappointed you? What specific characteristic of Jesus can you rely on in place of your disappointment? What could it look like for you to spend time this week to intentionally remember this characteristic of Jesus?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer now. Express your gratitude to Jesus for opening the doors to freely receive the presence of God. Be honest about the places in your life that need his mercy, forgive others who need your mercy, and appoint his character to cover every area of disappointment.
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When You Feel Powerless
Dr. Tim Mackie What should we do when life is unfair and everything feels out of control? What should we do when life is unfair and everything feels out of control? In this Bible study, we are reflecting on God’s powerful response to the cries of the powerless. Join in! Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible to 1 Samuel, and interact with the questions below. |
Read and Discuss
Reflection 1:Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 1 Samuel 1:1-61 Samuel 1:10-201 Samuel 2:1-10
When you feel powerless and alone in your hardship, remember that you are not alone. You stand alongside amazing people like Hannah, who brought her pain to God even when she couldn’t see how his plan would work out. The biblical story honors the experience that many of us have in times of suffering. God sees and cares for his people. He gives strength to the weak and power to the faint. All those who wait patiently for God learn that he has a habit of bringing new hope through the greatest of challenges.
Reflection 1: Review 1 Samuel 1:1-6.
Describe Hannah’s painful situation in your own words. In what ways can you relate to Hannah?
Reflection 2: Continue to review 1 Samuel 1:1-6.
Why do you think Peninnah bullied Hannah? In what areas has God given you power? How can you use your position to elevate others this week?
Reflection 3: How do people respond to God and others in painful times?
Review 1 Samuel 1:10-20. How did Hannah respond to God and others in her suffering?
Reflection 4: Review 1 Samuel 1:17-18.
What did Hannah need to trust and understand about God, herself, and her situation in order to feel resolved? How does her prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 demonstrate her trust and understanding?
Reflection 5: Notice how the word “anointed” is used in 1 Samuel 2:10.
In Hebrew the word is mashiakh, or messiah, and it’s the first time this word is used to describe a future king. With Jesus the Messiah in mind, review Hannah’s prayer (1 Samuel 2:1-10). What do you observe?
Reflection 6: Mary, the mother of Jesus, alluded to Hannah’s poetic prayer many times in her own prayers.
Read Mary’s words in Luke 1:46-55 and compare them to Hannah’s words in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. What do you observe?
Reflection 7: Take a moment to consider how Jesus’ humble suffering led to the power of resurrection life.
Express your appreciation to him in a prayer. Be honest about the ways you have misused your power or underestimated the kindness of his power toward you. Ask for his help and trust that he hears you.
Reflection 1:Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 1 Samuel 1:1-61 Samuel 1:10-201 Samuel 2:1-10
When you feel powerless and alone in your hardship, remember that you are not alone. You stand alongside amazing people like Hannah, who brought her pain to God even when she couldn’t see how his plan would work out. The biblical story honors the experience that many of us have in times of suffering. God sees and cares for his people. He gives strength to the weak and power to the faint. All those who wait patiently for God learn that he has a habit of bringing new hope through the greatest of challenges.
Reflection 1: Review 1 Samuel 1:1-6.
Describe Hannah’s painful situation in your own words. In what ways can you relate to Hannah?
Reflection 2: Continue to review 1 Samuel 1:1-6.
Why do you think Peninnah bullied Hannah? In what areas has God given you power? How can you use your position to elevate others this week?
Reflection 3: How do people respond to God and others in painful times?
Review 1 Samuel 1:10-20. How did Hannah respond to God and others in her suffering?
Reflection 4: Review 1 Samuel 1:17-18.
What did Hannah need to trust and understand about God, herself, and her situation in order to feel resolved? How does her prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 demonstrate her trust and understanding?
Reflection 5: Notice how the word “anointed” is used in 1 Samuel 2:10.
In Hebrew the word is mashiakh, or messiah, and it’s the first time this word is used to describe a future king. With Jesus the Messiah in mind, review Hannah’s prayer (1 Samuel 2:1-10). What do you observe?
Reflection 6: Mary, the mother of Jesus, alluded to Hannah’s poetic prayer many times in her own prayers.
Read Mary’s words in Luke 1:46-55 and compare them to Hannah’s words in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. What do you observe?
Reflection 7: Take a moment to consider how Jesus’ humble suffering led to the power of resurrection life.
Express your appreciation to him in a prayer. Be honest about the ways you have misused your power or underestimated the kindness of his power toward you. Ask for his help and trust that he hears you.
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Faithful Through Failure
Dr. Tim Mackie How does God respond when we fail to represent his character to the world? |
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Read and Discuss
Reflection 1: Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 2 Samuel 7:8-17
God promises King David that he will build him a house—a royal family line that leads to a king whose reign will never end. But before we get to the promised king, there is a long line of other kings, priests, and prophets who are called to represent God’s character on earth. Some do a pretty good job, others royally fail, and in the end, everyone comes up short. But humanity’s failures never cancel God’s faithfulness to his promise. In fact, the God of Israel became human to fulfill the promise himself. Jesus, the long awaited King, faithfully completed everything that we have left undone.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: As you review today’s passage, notice the repetition of the words “established” and “forever.” What do you think the author is emphasizing by this?
Reflection 2: Some of the kings from David’s line abused their leadership roles and committed murder, exploited the vulnerable, and hoarded wealth. God promised that they would be held accountable for their wrongdoing (see vs. 14). How does this sit with you?
Reflection 3: Jesus came to complete everything that the previous kings failed to do. And even though he did nothing wrong, he bore the weight of all our sins in order to establish his Kingdom forever. Read Isaiah 53, John 19:1-6, and 2 Corinthians 5:21 and reflect on this. What does this tell you about God’s character?
Reflection 4: Today’s passage reminds us of God’s faithfulness to his promises. What is one way God has been faithful to you recently?
Reflection 5: What is one specific way you’d like to grow in your faithfulness to Jesus?
Reflection 6: Who could be an ally in your life to help you grow, and how can you reach out to them today?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer to God. Express your gratitude for his faithfulness. Be honest about the areas in your life and community that need to change. Pray for his support and thank God for his promise to faithfully complete the good work he started (Philippians 1:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).
Reflection 1: Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: 2 Samuel 7:8-17
God promises King David that he will build him a house—a royal family line that leads to a king whose reign will never end. But before we get to the promised king, there is a long line of other kings, priests, and prophets who are called to represent God’s character on earth. Some do a pretty good job, others royally fail, and in the end, everyone comes up short. But humanity’s failures never cancel God’s faithfulness to his promise. In fact, the God of Israel became human to fulfill the promise himself. Jesus, the long awaited King, faithfully completed everything that we have left undone.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: As you review today’s passage, notice the repetition of the words “established” and “forever.” What do you think the author is emphasizing by this?
Reflection 2: Some of the kings from David’s line abused their leadership roles and committed murder, exploited the vulnerable, and hoarded wealth. God promised that they would be held accountable for their wrongdoing (see vs. 14). How does this sit with you?
Reflection 3: Jesus came to complete everything that the previous kings failed to do. And even though he did nothing wrong, he bore the weight of all our sins in order to establish his Kingdom forever. Read Isaiah 53, John 19:1-6, and 2 Corinthians 5:21 and reflect on this. What does this tell you about God’s character?
Reflection 4: Today’s passage reminds us of God’s faithfulness to his promises. What is one way God has been faithful to you recently?
Reflection 5: What is one specific way you’d like to grow in your faithfulness to Jesus?
Reflection 6: Who could be an ally in your life to help you grow, and how can you reach out to them today?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer to God. Express your gratitude for his faithfulness. Be honest about the areas in your life and community that need to change. Pray for his support and thank God for his promise to faithfully complete the good work he started (Philippians 1:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).
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How God Treats His Enemies
Dr. Carissa Quinn In today’s Bible study, we’re learning from Ruth, a woman who came from a nation that violently opposed God’s people. In today’s Bible study, we’re learning from Ruth, a woman who came from a nation that violently opposed God’s people. Despite this, Ruth became an example of God’s loyal love even in the midst of her impossible circumstances. Join us as we also reflect on God’s impartial and merciful character and the hope he offers to all who trust in him. Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below. |
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Read and Discuss
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Ruth 2:11-12
The book of Ruth shows us what loyal love looks like. It’s about trusting God and faithfully committing ourselves to support those around us who are in need. In Ruth’s story, we also learn about God’s impartial mercy. No matter a person’s background, they are valued and included in the family of God simply by trusting and following him. Lastly, the book of Ruth reminds us of the relentless hope of God in the lives of his people. When things are overwhelmingly difficult, God is still there, writing a story that leads us to the life of Jesus.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect all throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: How was Ruth loyal and loving to her community and to Yahweh? What does Boaz ask Yahweh to do for Ruth? How would Yahweh’s response be an expression of his loyal love for Ruth?
Reflection 2: How have you experienced loyalty and love from someone in your community? What is one practical way you can honor their support and encourage them today?
Reflection 3: Consider the metaphor Boaz uses to describe Ruth’s loyal trust in Yahweh. Young birds gather under their mother’s wings for warmth, belonging, and safety. How is this like trusting God?
Reflection 4: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, he saw the danger that was coming toward his people and grieved that they had rejected God’s attempts to protect them. Read Matthew 23:37 to see how Jesus also used the analogy of a mother’s wings. How does this passage illustrate what it looks like to trust or mistrust God?
Reflection 5: Consider the impossible situations Ruth and Naomi faced in the story. They lost family, country, home, status, safety, and financial provision. How do you relate to this? What support do you need in your own life?
Reflection 6: How can other people in your community relate to Ruth and Naomi’s losses and suffering? What do they need physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially, and economically? How can you offer loyal love and mercy to them this week?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. God sees and knows everything that feels impossibly difficult in your life or community right now. There is hope. Take a moment now to remember that God cares and ask him to transform your circumstances into brilliant new possibilities.
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Ruth 2:11-12
The book of Ruth shows us what loyal love looks like. It’s about trusting God and faithfully committing ourselves to support those around us who are in need. In Ruth’s story, we also learn about God’s impartial mercy. No matter a person’s background, they are valued and included in the family of God simply by trusting and following him. Lastly, the book of Ruth reminds us of the relentless hope of God in the lives of his people. When things are overwhelmingly difficult, God is still there, writing a story that leads us to the life of Jesus.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect all throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Reflection 1: How was Ruth loyal and loving to her community and to Yahweh? What does Boaz ask Yahweh to do for Ruth? How would Yahweh’s response be an expression of his loyal love for Ruth?
Reflection 2: How have you experienced loyalty and love from someone in your community? What is one practical way you can honor their support and encourage them today?
Reflection 3: Consider the metaphor Boaz uses to describe Ruth’s loyal trust in Yahweh. Young birds gather under their mother’s wings for warmth, belonging, and safety. How is this like trusting God?
Reflection 4: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, he saw the danger that was coming toward his people and grieved that they had rejected God’s attempts to protect them. Read Matthew 23:37 to see how Jesus also used the analogy of a mother’s wings. How does this passage illustrate what it looks like to trust or mistrust God?
Reflection 5: Consider the impossible situations Ruth and Naomi faced in the story. They lost family, country, home, status, safety, and financial provision. How do you relate to this? What support do you need in your own life?
Reflection 6: How can other people in your community relate to Ruth and Naomi’s losses and suffering? What do they need physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially, and economically? How can you offer loyal love and mercy to them this week?
Reflection 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. God sees and knows everything that feels impossibly difficult in your life or community right now. There is hope. Take a moment now to remember that God cares and ask him to transform your circumstances into brilliant new possibilities.
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When We Walk Out on God
Dr. Carissa Quinn The book of Judges has a lot to tell us about what happens when we turn our backs on God. God is just, but he is also compassionate. What happens when we turn our backs on God? In this Bible study, we are reflecting on how God responds to his people when they walk out on him and when they return. Join in! Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible to Judges 2, and interact with the questions below. |
Read and Discuss
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Judges 2:10-19
The book of Judges shows us what can happen when we try to do life apart from God’s wisdom and refuse to give up our stubborn attitudes and actions. The destruction that follows hurts everyone, but the book of Judges also offers a glimpse of hope. If you worry that you’ve failed too often or wandered too far away from God, remember that it’s not too late to call out to him. God is gracious and forgiving. He runs toward those who return to him.
Reflection 1: Review verse 10.
How does the text highlight why the people “forsook,” or walked away, from God? What can you learn from this explanation?
Reflection 2: Review verse 13.
The Canaanite idol Baal was thought to be the god over the weather and nature. In an agricultural society, people served Baal in hopes that he would reward them with a wealth of crops and flocks, assets that would lead to riches. Now read 1 Timothy 6:9-11. How can a longing to be rich cause someone to walk away from the one true God? What are other things people pursue ahead of God?
Reflection 3:How do you feel when others disregard what you say or reject you? What if you really love the person? How do your feelings relate to your love for that person?
Reflection 4: When God’s people disregard and reject him, he feels angry. How might God’s anger relate to his love for his people? How often do you consider God’s feelings when you make choices?
Reflection 5: Compare Judges 2:15 with what God said in Deuteronomy 4:25-31. What did God assure would happen if Israel turned to other gods (Deut. 4:25-28)? How does God assure his mercy and provide another chance for his people (Deut. 4:29-31)?
Reflection 6: The book of Judges ends with this line, “There was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” How can this help us understand what it means to honor Jesus as the King of our lives? What is one area of your life that would change if you fully agreed with Jesus’ perspective?
Reflection 7: Take this moment to pray and return to God any areas of your life that you’ve held back. Remember God’s overwhelming mercies and that he runs toward those who return to him (see Luke 15:20-24).
Video Question: What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question: How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Judges 2:10-19
The book of Judges shows us what can happen when we try to do life apart from God’s wisdom and refuse to give up our stubborn attitudes and actions. The destruction that follows hurts everyone, but the book of Judges also offers a glimpse of hope. If you worry that you’ve failed too often or wandered too far away from God, remember that it’s not too late to call out to him. God is gracious and forgiving. He runs toward those who return to him.
Reflection 1: Review verse 10.
How does the text highlight why the people “forsook,” or walked away, from God? What can you learn from this explanation?
Reflection 2: Review verse 13.
The Canaanite idol Baal was thought to be the god over the weather and nature. In an agricultural society, people served Baal in hopes that he would reward them with a wealth of crops and flocks, assets that would lead to riches. Now read 1 Timothy 6:9-11. How can a longing to be rich cause someone to walk away from the one true God? What are other things people pursue ahead of God?
Reflection 3:How do you feel when others disregard what you say or reject you? What if you really love the person? How do your feelings relate to your love for that person?
Reflection 4: When God’s people disregard and reject him, he feels angry. How might God’s anger relate to his love for his people? How often do you consider God’s feelings when you make choices?
Reflection 5: Compare Judges 2:15 with what God said in Deuteronomy 4:25-31. What did God assure would happen if Israel turned to other gods (Deut. 4:25-28)? How does God assure his mercy and provide another chance for his people (Deut. 4:29-31)?
Reflection 6: The book of Judges ends with this line, “There was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” How can this help us understand what it means to honor Jesus as the King of our lives? What is one area of your life that would change if you fully agreed with Jesus’ perspective?
Reflection 7: Take this moment to pray and return to God any areas of your life that you’ve held back. Remember God’s overwhelming mercies and that he runs toward those who return to him (see Luke 15:20-24).
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Making Sense of Divine Violence
Dr. Tim Mackie There’s a lot of violence in the Old Testament. But isn’t God loving? How do we make sense of all this? |
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How do we make sense of the violence in the book of Joshua? In this week’s Bible study, we explore a few key issues to keep in mind when reading about violence in the Bible. Join in! Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below.
Note to parents: You may want to listen to the message before inviting your kids to listen with you.
Note to parents: You may want to listen to the message before inviting your kids to listen with you.
Read and Discuss
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Joshua 1:1-9 How do we make sense of the violence in the book of Joshua? Most readers imagine that God commanded his people to vengefully wipe out an entire nation. But a deeper reading reveals that the reasons for the conquest were more complex, the scope of the battles were smaller, and God’s justice and mercy remained present throughout every detail.
There are many key issues to keep in mind as we approach this difficult topic. While we can’t address all of them in this episode, one key takeaway is that even this story leads us to Jesus. Similar to Joshua, Jesus came to drive corruption out of his creation. But unlike Joshua, Jesus’ weapons were acts of sacrificial love. Joshua’s victory was at the expense of his enemy’s blood, but Jesus’ victory was for his enemies and gained through the shedding of his own blood. In Jesus, the God of Israel himself suffered violence to put an end to violence and death.
Question 1: Divine violence is a complex topic that we’ve only begun to unpack in this brief study. What feelings does it bring up for you? What is one specific question that you have as you consider what we’ve reflected on so far?
Question 2: Joshua points to Jesus, the true conqueror of evil, who announces an alternate Kingdom in the midst of ruling powers of evil. When you read today’s passage with Jesus in mind, what do you observe?
Question 3: The apostle Paul uses the idea of opposing strongholds as a metaphor to describe thoughts that conflict with what we know of God’s character. With this in mind, compare and contrast today’s passage in Joshua with 2 Corinthians 10:1-5. What similarities and differences do you notice?
Question 4: Compare and contrast today’s passage in Joshua with Romans 8:31-39. What similarities and differences do you notice?
Question 5: According to Romans 8:31-39, what does it mean to be a “more than a conqueror,” and what do we need to believe in order to live in the boldness of that identity?
Question 6: How do you see violence corrupting your community? Consider God’s justice and mercy toward your community. How does he want to restore peace? What is one step you can take this week to join him?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Be honest about your feelings and questions about this topic. He hears you. Express your gratitude for how God conquered violence and death through the power of his love. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what it means to reflect his sacrificial love this week.
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Joshua 1:1-9 How do we make sense of the violence in the book of Joshua? Most readers imagine that God commanded his people to vengefully wipe out an entire nation. But a deeper reading reveals that the reasons for the conquest were more complex, the scope of the battles were smaller, and God’s justice and mercy remained present throughout every detail.
There are many key issues to keep in mind as we approach this difficult topic. While we can’t address all of them in this episode, one key takeaway is that even this story leads us to Jesus. Similar to Joshua, Jesus came to drive corruption out of his creation. But unlike Joshua, Jesus’ weapons were acts of sacrificial love. Joshua’s victory was at the expense of his enemy’s blood, but Jesus’ victory was for his enemies and gained through the shedding of his own blood. In Jesus, the God of Israel himself suffered violence to put an end to violence and death.
Question 1: Divine violence is a complex topic that we’ve only begun to unpack in this brief study. What feelings does it bring up for you? What is one specific question that you have as you consider what we’ve reflected on so far?
Question 2: Joshua points to Jesus, the true conqueror of evil, who announces an alternate Kingdom in the midst of ruling powers of evil. When you read today’s passage with Jesus in mind, what do you observe?
Question 3: The apostle Paul uses the idea of opposing strongholds as a metaphor to describe thoughts that conflict with what we know of God’s character. With this in mind, compare and contrast today’s passage in Joshua with 2 Corinthians 10:1-5. What similarities and differences do you notice?
Question 4: Compare and contrast today’s passage in Joshua with Romans 8:31-39. What similarities and differences do you notice?
Question 5: According to Romans 8:31-39, what does it mean to be a “more than a conqueror,” and what do we need to believe in order to live in the boldness of that identity?
Question 6: How do you see violence corrupting your community? Consider God’s justice and mercy toward your community. How does he want to restore peace? What is one step you can take this week to join him?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Be honest about your feelings and questions about this topic. He hears you. Express your gratitude for how God conquered violence and death through the power of his love. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what it means to reflect his sacrificial love this week.
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Understanding Ancient Law
Dr. Carissa Quinn What’s the point of reading Old Testament laws today? |
Read and Discuss
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Leviticus 5:2; Leviticus 5:5-6
God gave instructions to ancient Israel to teach them how to relate to him and how to relate to one another as a community. These two categories—loving to God and loving others—can be broken down into laws about holiness, sacrifice, sacred time, and social justice. But how does this relate to modern readers? These categories can help us better understand what a particular law reveals about the character of God and his desire for humans. And as we study, we can also learn how the law points to Jesus, who completed its requirements and called his followers to love God and others just as he does. With this in mind, let’s practice reading biblical law, starting with Leviticus 5:2, 5-6.
Question 1: What do these laws communicate key aspects of God’s character and desires to ancient Israel? How are these aspects still true today?
Question 2: What needed to be addressed before the people could approach God? How did God provide a way for Israel to approach him?
Question 3: Read Hebrews 10:10-14 and 10:19-22.
According to this passage, how did God provide a way for all people to approach him through Jesus? How is this similar to Leviticus 5:6? How is it different?
Read: Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Romans 8:1-6
God wants what’s best for his people, so he gives commands that lead to life. Israel had a choice about whether or not to trust and follow God’s counsel to experience that life. And while followers of Jesus today aren’t called to obey the law the same way as the Israelites, they are called to the same trust. God gives his life-giving-Spirit to empower those who trust Jesus. And with his power, followers of Jesus can choose life by loving God and others just like him.
Question 1: What is one specific choice you can make to love God and others this week?
Question 2: How do you think that choice could bring life to those around you?
Question 3: What is the first step you can take with God to carry out that choice today?
Question 4: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for how he’s provided a way for you to experience and participate in his life and love. Be honest about the ways you have neglected to choose life. Receive forgiveness and ask the Holy Spirit for help to make life-giving choices to love God and others today.
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Leviticus 5:2; Leviticus 5:5-6
God gave instructions to ancient Israel to teach them how to relate to him and how to relate to one another as a community. These two categories—loving to God and loving others—can be broken down into laws about holiness, sacrifice, sacred time, and social justice. But how does this relate to modern readers? These categories can help us better understand what a particular law reveals about the character of God and his desire for humans. And as we study, we can also learn how the law points to Jesus, who completed its requirements and called his followers to love God and others just as he does. With this in mind, let’s practice reading biblical law, starting with Leviticus 5:2, 5-6.
Question 1: What do these laws communicate key aspects of God’s character and desires to ancient Israel? How are these aspects still true today?
Question 2: What needed to be addressed before the people could approach God? How did God provide a way for Israel to approach him?
Question 3: Read Hebrews 10:10-14 and 10:19-22.
According to this passage, how did God provide a way for all people to approach him through Jesus? How is this similar to Leviticus 5:6? How is it different?
Read: Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Romans 8:1-6
God wants what’s best for his people, so he gives commands that lead to life. Israel had a choice about whether or not to trust and follow God’s counsel to experience that life. And while followers of Jesus today aren’t called to obey the law the same way as the Israelites, they are called to the same trust. God gives his life-giving-Spirit to empower those who trust Jesus. And with his power, followers of Jesus can choose life by loving God and others just like him.
Question 1: What is one specific choice you can make to love God and others this week?
Question 2: How do you think that choice could bring life to those around you?
Question 3: What is the first step you can take with God to carry out that choice today?
Question 4: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for how he’s provided a way for you to experience and participate in his life and love. Be honest about the ways you have neglected to choose life. Receive forgiveness and ask the Holy Spirit for help to make life-giving choices to love God and others today.
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God's Wisdom on Display
Dr. Tim Mackie Why did God give his people so many rules? Today we’re reflecting on the wisdom and purpose of God's commands. |
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Read and Discuss
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Deuteronomy 4:5-9God gave his commands to Israel, so he could share his wisdom with all the nations. As Israel followed his commands, they would become wise with understanding. Then all the nations would see God’s wisdom displayed through them.
As followers of Jesus today, we too are called to represent God’s wisdom to the world. But this does not happen simply by saying what we believe or by having an ethical list of rules. The world sees God’s goodness by our actions and decision to follow his teachings. Our lifestyle tells the truth about what we really value. So this week, let’s meditate on the valuable wisdom in God’s ancient commands to Israel. And as we do, we can be empowered by God’s Spirit to respond in active ways that display his goodness to those around us.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What word, phrase, or idea stands out to you?
Question 2: Wisdom is gained when we live out the knowledge we have received (Deuteronomy 4:6a). Think of someone you know who is wise. How do they apply what they have learned? How have they shared God’s wisdom with the people around them?
Question 3: Receiving and responding to God’s wisdom requires intentionality. Review verse 9 and consider the importance of diligently taking care of one’s own spiritual and emotional health. According to this verse, what can happen when people neglect this command?
Question 4: What are some specific things people do to remember who God is and what God has taught them? What usually distracts people from regularly practicing these specific things?
Question 5: What is one practice you’d like to establish in order to remember and respond to what God has taught you? How often would you like to embrace this practice? When will you begin?
Question 6: Review the end of verse 9. Consider someone from a younger generation who you can encourage with God’s wisdom. Who comes to mind? Would they like to embrace the same practice (from question 5) with you?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for who he is and the wisdom he provides in his commands. Be honest about the ways you have been distracted and forgetful. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s help as you seek to follow his wisdom and take care of your spiritual and emotional well-being this week.
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Deuteronomy 4:5-9God gave his commands to Israel, so he could share his wisdom with all the nations. As Israel followed his commands, they would become wise with understanding. Then all the nations would see God’s wisdom displayed through them.
As followers of Jesus today, we too are called to represent God’s wisdom to the world. But this does not happen simply by saying what we believe or by having an ethical list of rules. The world sees God’s goodness by our actions and decision to follow his teachings. Our lifestyle tells the truth about what we really value. So this week, let’s meditate on the valuable wisdom in God’s ancient commands to Israel. And as we do, we can be empowered by God’s Spirit to respond in active ways that display his goodness to those around us.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What word, phrase, or idea stands out to you?
Question 2: Wisdom is gained when we live out the knowledge we have received (Deuteronomy 4:6a). Think of someone you know who is wise. How do they apply what they have learned? How have they shared God’s wisdom with the people around them?
Question 3: Receiving and responding to God’s wisdom requires intentionality. Review verse 9 and consider the importance of diligently taking care of one’s own spiritual and emotional health. According to this verse, what can happen when people neglect this command?
Question 4: What are some specific things people do to remember who God is and what God has taught them? What usually distracts people from regularly practicing these specific things?
Question 5: What is one practice you’d like to establish in order to remember and respond to what God has taught you? How often would you like to embrace this practice? When will you begin?
Question 6: Review the end of verse 9. Consider someone from a younger generation who you can encourage with God’s wisdom. Who comes to mind? Would they like to embrace the same practice (from question 5) with you?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for who he is and the wisdom he provides in his commands. Be honest about the ways you have been distracted and forgetful. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s help as you seek to follow his wisdom and take care of your spiritual and emotional well-being this week.
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Gift of Rest
Dr. Tim Mackie What is the biblical significance of rest, and why is it important for Christians? |
For most of us, taking time to rest and reflect is a struggle. Join us for this Bible study as we look at the biblical significance of rest and what it means for us today as Jesus followers. Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below.
Read and Discuss
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Leviticus 25:1-23. The ancient practices of Sabbath and Jubilee remind us that we are dependent on God for everything. All that we do and everything that we have is a gift from God. When we forget this, our relationships and our environments suffer. God calls his people to rest and remember that his provision is more than enough.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: Take three deep breaths. While you inhale and exhale, reflect on God and your reliance on him. What was that like for you?
Question 2: Review verses 18-19. What was God’s purpose for these Sabbath laws? Consider some of the ways observing these laws would have brought about that purpose.
Question 3: Review verses 20-21. What did God promise to provide for Israel? What does God’s purpose and provision reveal about his attitude and intentions toward his people?
Question 4: The promised land belongs to God (see vs. 23). How do you think these Sabbath laws would have helped the people understand that they were stewards of the land and not owners?
Question 5: How might intentional rhythms of rest help you understand your role as a steward instead of an owner? What practices do you want to add, change, or continue in order to remember your reliance on God?
Question 6: Read Matthew 11:28-30. In this passage, what does Jesus call the weary to do and why?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Reflect on the gentle and humble character of Jesus. Thank him for who he is and what he’s already given. Tell him what’s weighing on you and ask him for his provision. As you pray, remember he cares for you and wants you to experience his rest. He hears you.
Video Question - What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question - How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Leviticus 25:1-23. The ancient practices of Sabbath and Jubilee remind us that we are dependent on God for everything. All that we do and everything that we have is a gift from God. When we forget this, our relationships and our environments suffer. God calls his people to rest and remember that his provision is more than enough.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: Take three deep breaths. While you inhale and exhale, reflect on God and your reliance on him. What was that like for you?
Question 2: Review verses 18-19. What was God’s purpose for these Sabbath laws? Consider some of the ways observing these laws would have brought about that purpose.
Question 3: Review verses 20-21. What did God promise to provide for Israel? What does God’s purpose and provision reveal about his attitude and intentions toward his people?
Question 4: The promised land belongs to God (see vs. 23). How do you think these Sabbath laws would have helped the people understand that they were stewards of the land and not owners?
Question 5: How might intentional rhythms of rest help you understand your role as a steward instead of an owner? What practices do you want to add, change, or continue in order to remember your reliance on God?
Question 6: Read Matthew 11:28-30. In this passage, what does Jesus call the weary to do and why?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Reflect on the gentle and humble character of Jesus. Thank him for who he is and what he’s already given. Tell him what’s weighing on you and ask him for his provision. As you pray, remember he cares for you and wants you to experience his rest. He hears you.
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The Meaning of Sacrifice
Dr. Carissa Quinn Why did God's people practice animal sacrifice? In today's Bible study, we explore how this ancient practice points us to God's enduring forgiveness. The Bible has a lot to say about animal sacrifice, but it’s a strange topic for us as modern readers. Why did God’s people engage in this practice? In today’s Bible study, we are exploring the biblical theme of sacrifice and atonement and how it points to God’s forgiving love for his people. Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below. |
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Read and Discuss
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Hebrews 10:9-25
For the Israelites, animal sacrifice was a symbol to demonstrate the cost of sin, but it showed how God could cleanse and remove their sin. Animal sacrifices pointed ahead to Jesus, the “lamb of God,” who would come to take away sin once and for all. When we remember Jesus’ death on the cross, we recognize the devastating effects of our sin and see his power to forgive. And in Jesus’ resurrection, we can experience God’s power to remove the deadly effects of our sin. His sacrifice brings life to all who trust in him.
Let’s reflect on this. Feel free to engage with all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What word, phrase, or idea stands out to you?
Question 2: Ponder the meaning of verse 14. What do you think it means to be made complete in Jesus while still in the process of being made holy and complete?
Question 3: How did Jesus complete his work on our behalf (see vv. 9-10)? How is he still completing his work in and through us? (see vv. 15-25)?
Question 4: 1 John 1:9 says that when we admit our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us. What comes to mind when you think about how you’ve sinned against God and others? Why is it hard to be honest about our failings? What is needed for a community to be a safe place where people can be honest with one another? What step can you take this week to build this kind of community?
Question 5: Take time now to receive and rely on God’s forgiveness. He’s listening and he cares for you. Ask him to remove your sin from your record and wash away your guilt and shame. What feelings, images, or thoughts come to mind as you invite Jesus to take away your sin?
Question 6: When God removes our sin, he makes us pure and commits to help us live in his love. Who in your life needs encouragement today? What can you sacrifice to show them the love of Jesus?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your amazement to God for the sacrifice he made to make you completely clean. Admit where you struggle to rely on him. Choose to receive his forgiveness and then forgive others who have wronged you too, and ask for his help to share his love and encouragement to others this week.
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Hebrews 10:9-25
For the Israelites, animal sacrifice was a symbol to demonstrate the cost of sin, but it showed how God could cleanse and remove their sin. Animal sacrifices pointed ahead to Jesus, the “lamb of God,” who would come to take away sin once and for all. When we remember Jesus’ death on the cross, we recognize the devastating effects of our sin and see his power to forgive. And in Jesus’ resurrection, we can experience God’s power to remove the deadly effects of our sin. His sacrifice brings life to all who trust in him.
Let’s reflect on this. Feel free to engage with all the questions or just a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What word, phrase, or idea stands out to you?
Question 2: Ponder the meaning of verse 14. What do you think it means to be made complete in Jesus while still in the process of being made holy and complete?
Question 3: How did Jesus complete his work on our behalf (see vv. 9-10)? How is he still completing his work in and through us? (see vv. 15-25)?
Question 4: 1 John 1:9 says that when we admit our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us. What comes to mind when you think about how you’ve sinned against God and others? Why is it hard to be honest about our failings? What is needed for a community to be a safe place where people can be honest with one another? What step can you take this week to build this kind of community?
Question 5: Take time now to receive and rely on God’s forgiveness. He’s listening and he cares for you. Ask him to remove your sin from your record and wash away your guilt and shame. What feelings, images, or thoughts come to mind as you invite Jesus to take away your sin?
Question 6: When God removes our sin, he makes us pure and commits to help us live in his love. Who in your life needs encouragement today? What can you sacrifice to show them the love of Jesus?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your amazement to God for the sacrifice he made to make you completely clean. Admit where you struggle to rely on him. Choose to receive his forgiveness and then forgive others who have wronged you too, and ask for his help to share his love and encouragement to others this week.
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Rescued for a Purpose
Dr. Tim Mackie Does God rescue people just to get them out of trouble, or does he have something greater in mind? |
Read and Discuss
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Exodus 19:1-6
God rescued Israel from slavery for a specific purpose. He wanted to transform them into a kingdom of priests who would represent his presence and character to all nations around them. God rescues us for the same purpose. As we rely on Jesus and live by his Spirit of wisdom, justice, and love, we become reflections of who he is to the world around us.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What is something that stood out to you as you read?
Question 2: Notice the figure of speech God uses in Exodus 19:4. This is the first time “eagles’ wings” are mentioned in the Bible, but it won’t be the last. Consider some of the ways later biblical authors hyperlink to this Exodus passage to describe God’s rescuing love for his people. Compare today’s passage with Deuteronomy 32:10-12, Isaiah 40:29-31, and Revelation 12:13-14. What do you notice?
Question 3: God rescued Israel for a purpose. Study Exodus 19:4-6 and take note of the specific ways God describes the identity he wants his people to receive. According to this passage, what does God want his people to be? How are they to receive this identity?
Question 4: Centuries later, the apostle Peter references these verses in Exodus. Read 1 Peter 2:4-9 and take note of the relationship between trust and obedience. What do you notice?
Question 5: When God’s people trust and obey God’s wise, just, and loving commands, how do they impact the communities around them? What happens to these communities when God’s people neglect to trust and obey him? Consider specific examples from the Bible as well as your own experiences.
Question 6: Let’s invite God’s Spirit of wisdom to empower us to trust, obey, and reflect his character. Ask God how he wants to show his wisdom, justice, and love through you today. Listen for what he may bring to your mind.
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Admire God for his rescuing love and agree with his plan to show his love to many through you. Ask for his help to trust and obey him, admit where you have doubted and disobeyed, and thank him for a fresh start today.
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Exodus 19:1-6
God rescued Israel from slavery for a specific purpose. He wanted to transform them into a kingdom of priests who would represent his presence and character to all nations around them. God rescues us for the same purpose. As we rely on Jesus and live by his Spirit of wisdom, justice, and love, we become reflections of who he is to the world around us.
Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What is something that stood out to you as you read?
Question 2: Notice the figure of speech God uses in Exodus 19:4. This is the first time “eagles’ wings” are mentioned in the Bible, but it won’t be the last. Consider some of the ways later biblical authors hyperlink to this Exodus passage to describe God’s rescuing love for his people. Compare today’s passage with Deuteronomy 32:10-12, Isaiah 40:29-31, and Revelation 12:13-14. What do you notice?
Question 3: God rescued Israel for a purpose. Study Exodus 19:4-6 and take note of the specific ways God describes the identity he wants his people to receive. According to this passage, what does God want his people to be? How are they to receive this identity?
Question 4: Centuries later, the apostle Peter references these verses in Exodus. Read 1 Peter 2:4-9 and take note of the relationship between trust and obedience. What do you notice?
Question 5: When God’s people trust and obey God’s wise, just, and loving commands, how do they impact the communities around them? What happens to these communities when God’s people neglect to trust and obey him? Consider specific examples from the Bible as well as your own experiences.
Question 6: Let’s invite God’s Spirit of wisdom to empower us to trust, obey, and reflect his character. Ask God how he wants to show his wisdom, justice, and love through you today. Listen for what he may bring to your mind.
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Admire God for his rescuing love and agree with his plan to show his love to many through you. Ask for his help to trust and obey him, admit where you have doubted and disobeyed, and thank him for a fresh start today.
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Wrestling with God
by Dr. Tim Mackel Did God really pick a fight with Jacob in the middle of the night? In this Bible study, we take a closer look at Genesis 32. |
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Read and Discuss
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Genesis 32:22-32
God blesses Jacob from birth (Genesis 25:19-34), but Jacob lives as if God’s blessing depends on his own scheming and skills. And he’s willing to sabotage anyone to get what he wants. In spite of this, God does not abandon Jacob. Instead, God commits himself even more to Jacob by visiting him in person to wrestle it all out. God wounds Jacob in the struggle, and it’s precisely this wound that helps Jacob finally receive God’s blessing as a gift. It’s a gift he could never acquire by himself, no matter how hard he tries.
Note: Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few. You can also return to this study throughout the week and focus on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What do you observe?
Question 2: Notice the faithful character of God. He’s committed to fulfilling the promise he’s made to his stubborn people, no matter what. And he continually pours out his mercy on them so that they can still receive his blessing. What other examples in Scripture show this aspect of God’s character?
Question 3: Notice Jacob’s character flaws. He chases after his own security by stealing the blessings and security of the people around him. What else do you notice about Jacob in the Genesis story?
Question 4: Jacob’s story provides an opportunity for self-reflection. What’s one thing you have chased after in life (approval, love, etc.)? How did you chase it, and what did that pursuit cost you and others?
Question 5: Let’s learn from Jacob’s mistakes. How has God already given or promised the very things you’ve chased after? What does it practically look like for you to receive (instead of chase) God’s blessings and promises through Jesus and his Spirit? To go deeper, read Ephesians 1:1-23, 2:1-10.
Question 6: How has God intervened in your life to help you receive his promises and blessing? What did you learn through that experience?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for being faithful to fulfill his promises and for all the ways he’s intervened in your life to help you receive his gifts. Be honest about the ways you’ve schemed after things he’s already given or promised through Jesus and ask for his help to trust him today.
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Genesis 32:22-32
God blesses Jacob from birth (Genesis 25:19-34), but Jacob lives as if God’s blessing depends on his own scheming and skills. And he’s willing to sabotage anyone to get what he wants. In spite of this, God does not abandon Jacob. Instead, God commits himself even more to Jacob by visiting him in person to wrestle it all out. God wounds Jacob in the struggle, and it’s precisely this wound that helps Jacob finally receive God’s blessing as a gift. It’s a gift he could never acquire by himself, no matter how hard he tries.
Note: Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few. You can also return to this study throughout the week and focus on one question per day.
Question 1: As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What do you observe?
Question 2: Notice the faithful character of God. He’s committed to fulfilling the promise he’s made to his stubborn people, no matter what. And he continually pours out his mercy on them so that they can still receive his blessing. What other examples in Scripture show this aspect of God’s character?
Question 3: Notice Jacob’s character flaws. He chases after his own security by stealing the blessings and security of the people around him. What else do you notice about Jacob in the Genesis story?
Question 4: Jacob’s story provides an opportunity for self-reflection. What’s one thing you have chased after in life (approval, love, etc.)? How did you chase it, and what did that pursuit cost you and others?
Question 5: Let’s learn from Jacob’s mistakes. How has God already given or promised the very things you’ve chased after? What does it practically look like for you to receive (instead of chase) God’s blessings and promises through Jesus and his Spirit? To go deeper, read Ephesians 1:1-23, 2:1-10.
Question 6: How has God intervened in your life to help you receive his promises and blessing? What did you learn through that experience?
Question 7: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for being faithful to fulfill his promises and for all the ways he’s intervened in your life to help you receive his gifts. Be honest about the ways you’ve schemed after things he’s already given or promised through Jesus and ask for his help to trust him today.
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In the opening pages of the Bible, God gives the first humans a choice. But why? In today’s Bible study, we’ll explore the first few pages of the book of Genesis and what it means for God to give humanity choice. Listen to the message, watch the video, open your Bible, and interact with the questions below.
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Read and Discuss
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:16-18; Genesis 3:1-15
God created humanity in the image of God and called them to partner with him in expanding his creation. But partnership requires trust, so God gave humanity the freedom to make their own choices. Sadly, the first humans made the choice to trust their own wisdom over God’s. This began a downward spiral of selfishness, violence, and pain for humanity. But God intervened with a plan to restore humans to their place of true partn ership.
Note: Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few. You can also return to this study throughout the week and focus on one question per day.
Question 1: Knowing good and evil seems like a good thing, but in this story we see humans choose their own definition of good and evil over God’s. How does the story help us understand what is not good about eating from the tree of knowing good and evil?
Question 2: Consider the irony and deception in the snake’s words when he says, “When you eat from the tree, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5). Review Genesis 1:26-31 and 2:15-17. How are the humans already made like God? And what do they already know about what is good and bad?
Question 3: In order to reject God’s warnings, what did the first humans have to believe about God, themselves, and the fruit? Be specific. Now consider a time in your life when you neglected God’s warnings. How can you relate with the first humans?
Question 4: In order to appreciate and heed God’s warnings, what do you need to believe about God, yourself, and something you struggle to avoid? Be specific and write out your answer. Why do you or don’t you believe the truths on your list?
Question 5: Review Genesis 3:7-8 and identify what kinds of things are lost after the first humans reject God’s warning. How have similar consequences followed your own regrettable choices?
Question 6:The consequences that humans face for neglecting God’s warnings are difficult, but God promises hope. Review God’s promise in verse 15. What do you observe? Identify a specific area in your life where you sense your need for redemption. With this in mind, how does this promise specifically impact you today?
Question 7: How can these reflections turn into a prayer? Take time now to thank God for Jesus, who fulfilled God’s promise and made a way for us to live in fellowship with God again. Be honest with God about the ways you have trusted your own understanding over his wisdom. Lift up the list you wrote in question four and ask for God’s Spirit to rewrite it on your heart.
Video Question
What image stood out to you in the video and why?
Message Question
How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:16-18; Genesis 3:1-15
God created humanity in the image of God and called them to partner with him in expanding his creation. But partnership requires trust, so God gave humanity the freedom to make their own choices. Sadly, the first humans made the choice to trust their own wisdom over God’s. This began a downward spiral of selfishness, violence, and pain for humanity. But God intervened with a plan to restore humans to their place of true partn ership.
Note: Feel free to reflect on all the questions or just a few. You can also return to this study throughout the week and focus on one question per day.
Question 1: Knowing good and evil seems like a good thing, but in this story we see humans choose their own definition of good and evil over God’s. How does the story help us understand what is not good about eating from the tree of knowing good and evil?
Question 2: Consider the irony and deception in the snake’s words when he says, “When you eat from the tree, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5). Review Genesis 1:26-31 and 2:15-17. How are the humans already made like God? And what do they already know about what is good and bad?
Question 3: In order to reject God’s warnings, what did the first humans have to believe about God, themselves, and the fruit? Be specific. Now consider a time in your life when you neglected God’s warnings. How can you relate with the first humans?
Question 4: In order to appreciate and heed God’s warnings, what do you need to believe about God, yourself, and something you struggle to avoid? Be specific and write out your answer. Why do you or don’t you believe the truths on your list?
Question 5: Review Genesis 3:7-8 and identify what kinds of things are lost after the first humans reject God’s warning. How have similar consequences followed your own regrettable choices?
Question 6:The consequences that humans face for neglecting God’s warnings are difficult, but God promises hope. Review God’s promise in verse 15. What do you observe? Identify a specific area in your life where you sense your need for redemption. With this in mind, how does this promise specifically impact you today?
Question 7: How can these reflections turn into a prayer? Take time now to thank God for Jesus, who fulfilled God’s promise and made a way for us to live in fellowship with God again. Be honest with God about the ways you have trusted your own understanding over his wisdom. Lift up the list you wrote in question four and ask for God’s Spirit to rewrite it on your heart.
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Take time to reflect by watching our video
The Birth of Jesus - Gospel of Luke Ch. 1-2. If you want to dig deeper, you can check out our latest Bible Study on Luke 1-2. |
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Read and Discuss
Video question
What image stood out to you as you watched the video?
Message question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Luke 1:5-56
Question 1: What did you observe as you read? What patterns and repeated words did you notice?
Question 2: Review Mary’s poetic response in verses 46-55. What do you observe? Take note of the people that God honors. What do they have in common? Take note of the people that God humbles. What do they have in common?
Question 3: What kinds of people are honored in your city, neighborhood, and church? How are your answers similar to the kinds of people that God honors? How are they different?
Question 4: If the birth of Jesus happened in our day, what kinds of leaders do you think would be humbled like Zechariah*, and who might be honored like Mary?
Question 5: As you consider all these things, what do you sense needs to change in your own life to more accurately reflect the heart, mind, and actions of God?
Question 6: Let’s take some time now to humble ourselves before God in prayer. Let’s ask him to have mercy on us and for the Spirit to give us wisdom and power to transform our values to reflect God’s in the new year.*Due to variables in the original languages, translations render this name as Zecharias, Zacharias, or Zechariah.
Video question
What image stood out to you as you watched the video?
Message question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Luke 1:5-56
Question 1: What did you observe as you read? What patterns and repeated words did you notice?
Question 2: Review Mary’s poetic response in verses 46-55. What do you observe? Take note of the people that God honors. What do they have in common? Take note of the people that God humbles. What do they have in common?
Question 3: What kinds of people are honored in your city, neighborhood, and church? How are your answers similar to the kinds of people that God honors? How are they different?
Question 4: If the birth of Jesus happened in our day, what kinds of leaders do you think would be humbled like Zechariah*, and who might be honored like Mary?
Question 5: As you consider all these things, what do you sense needs to change in your own life to more accurately reflect the heart, mind, and actions of God?
Question 6: Let’s take some time now to humble ourselves before God in prayer. Let’s ask him to have mercy on us and for the Spirit to give us wisdom and power to transform our values to reflect God’s in the new year.*Due to variables in the original languages, translations render this name as Zecharias, Zacharias, or Zechariah.
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What does it look like to truly love and be loved? For this last week of Advent, we invite you to reflect on the biblical meaning of love. Listen to the recording, watch the video, open your Bible to 1 John, and interact with the discussion questions below. If you find this study to be encouraging, tell us on social media using the hashtag #BibleProjectAdvent. We’d appreciate hearing from you.
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Read and Discuss
Message Question How did Carissa’s message remind, challenge, or encourage you today?
Video Question What surprises you about this definition of love?
Read: 1 John 4:7-16
The God of the Bible doesn’t just express love, he is love. As a triune God—Father, Son, and Spirit—he has always been and always will be an others-centered, self-giving, communal being. Jesus fully embodies the love of God, and he demonstrated it most clearly when he gave his life on behalf of humanity. When people learn to trust Jesus’ love for them, they join in God’s community of life and love, and their very nature is transformed to live a life of love with him.
Question 1: Before you begin to study, pray for God’s Spirit to help you understand his love in a fresh way.
Question 2: According to the passage, what is the source of love? How did God show his love to us, and why did he do it? Why should we love others? Take time to rediscover and marvel at the answers the passage provides to these questions.
Question 3: Review 1 John 4:16. Have you learned to trust that God loves you? If so, describe your experience of receiving his love. If not, what do you think would change in your life if you fully trusted that God loves you?
Question 4: No one has seen God, but God lives in the one who loves (vs. 12). In this way, God’s life can be seen through people who choose to speak and act in sacrificial love. How have you seen God’s life through people’s love for one another? How can you love and show God’s life to someone else today?
Question 5: Turn your reading and reflection into a prayer. Talk to God about how his love amazes you, be honest about how you struggle to trust it, and ask for help to receive and share his love today.
Read: Matthew 5:43-48Jesus teaches his followers to seek other people’s well-being without expecting anything in return and to extend love to even their enemies. Sacrificial, selfless, and forgiving love imitates the very character of God himself.
Question 1: How do Jesus’ words encourage and challenge you today?
Question 2: Note how God himself is kind to people who commit evil. What does this say about God’s character?
Question 3: Do you have a person in your life that you struggle to love? Take time now to imagine how God sees that person. What do you imagine he desires most for them? How do you think Jesus would personally address them, and how can you join him today?
Question 4: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your gratitude to God for his merciful love and be honest about the ways you have withheld love from others. Pray for the people who have mistreated you and ask for God’s help to love like he does.
Message Question How did Carissa’s message remind, challenge, or encourage you today?
Video Question What surprises you about this definition of love?
Read: 1 John 4:7-16
The God of the Bible doesn’t just express love, he is love. As a triune God—Father, Son, and Spirit—he has always been and always will be an others-centered, self-giving, communal being. Jesus fully embodies the love of God, and he demonstrated it most clearly when he gave his life on behalf of humanity. When people learn to trust Jesus’ love for them, they join in God’s community of life and love, and their very nature is transformed to live a life of love with him.
Question 1: Before you begin to study, pray for God’s Spirit to help you understand his love in a fresh way.
Question 2: According to the passage, what is the source of love? How did God show his love to us, and why did he do it? Why should we love others? Take time to rediscover and marvel at the answers the passage provides to these questions.
Question 3: Review 1 John 4:16. Have you learned to trust that God loves you? If so, describe your experience of receiving his love. If not, what do you think would change in your life if you fully trusted that God loves you?
Question 4: No one has seen God, but God lives in the one who loves (vs. 12). In this way, God’s life can be seen through people who choose to speak and act in sacrificial love. How have you seen God’s life through people’s love for one another? How can you love and show God’s life to someone else today?
Question 5: Turn your reading and reflection into a prayer. Talk to God about how his love amazes you, be honest about how you struggle to trust it, and ask for help to receive and share his love today.
Read: Matthew 5:43-48Jesus teaches his followers to seek other people’s well-being without expecting anything in return and to extend love to even their enemies. Sacrificial, selfless, and forgiving love imitates the very character of God himself.
Question 1: How do Jesus’ words encourage and challenge you today?
Question 2: Note how God himself is kind to people who commit evil. What does this say about God’s character?
Question 3: Do you have a person in your life that you struggle to love? Take time now to imagine how God sees that person. What do you imagine he desires most for them? How do you think Jesus would personally address them, and how can you join him today?
Question 4: Turn your reflections into a prayer. Express your gratitude to God for his merciful love and be honest about the ways you have withheld love from others. Pray for the people who have mistreated you and ask for God’s help to love like he does.
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How can you have joy in the midst of hardship? In this week's Bible Study, we invite you to explore this question while you reflect on the biblical meaning of joy. Listen to the recording, watch the video, open your Bible to Isaiah, and interact with the discussion questions below. If you find this study to be encouraging, tell us on social media using the hashtag #BibleProjectAdvent. We’d love to hear from you.
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Read and Discuss
Video Question: What image stood out to you most as you watched the video?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Isaiah 51:1-16
Israel suffered under the rule of an oppressive empire, but the prophet Isaiah knew that sorrow and sadness would not have the final word. Isaiah remembered how God faithfully delivered Israel from oppression in the past, and he looked forward to God delivering Israel again. Isaiah relied on God’s faithful character, so he could say with confidence that one day God would lead his people to eternal joy.
Question 1: Biblical authors often use what’s called allusion (an indirect reference) to help readers recall important truths from other stories and portions of Scripture. Identify three or more allusions in today’s passage. What truths do you think the author wants us to recall from these allusions?
Question 2: Review today’s passage and make a list of the commands God gives his people (i.e. “listen to me” Isaiah 51:1). What do these commands have in common?
Question 3: Review today’s passage and make a list of what God did in the past and what he promises to do in the future for Israel. How do you think these things could give Israel reason to rejoice?
Question 4: How has God personally comforted and provided for you in the past, and how can those stories provide reasons for you to rejoice in the midst of your disappointments today?
Question 5: Take note of the relationship between joy, hope, and trust. What do you think can happen to someone’s joy when their hope is placed in their own desired outcomes instead of in the faithful character of God? Consider concrete examples from your own life.
Question 6: Turn your reflections into a prayer to God. Talk to him about your pain, disappointment, and needs. Ask him to give you the courage to recognize, remember, and rely on his faithful character. May he encourage and renew your joy in the process.
Video Question: What image stood out to you most as you watched the video?
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Isaiah 51:1-16
Israel suffered under the rule of an oppressive empire, but the prophet Isaiah knew that sorrow and sadness would not have the final word. Isaiah remembered how God faithfully delivered Israel from oppression in the past, and he looked forward to God delivering Israel again. Isaiah relied on God’s faithful character, so he could say with confidence that one day God would lead his people to eternal joy.
Question 1: Biblical authors often use what’s called allusion (an indirect reference) to help readers recall important truths from other stories and portions of Scripture. Identify three or more allusions in today’s passage. What truths do you think the author wants us to recall from these allusions?
Question 2: Review today’s passage and make a list of the commands God gives his people (i.e. “listen to me” Isaiah 51:1). What do these commands have in common?
Question 3: Review today’s passage and make a list of what God did in the past and what he promises to do in the future for Israel. How do you think these things could give Israel reason to rejoice?
Question 4: How has God personally comforted and provided for you in the past, and how can those stories provide reasons for you to rejoice in the midst of your disappointments today?
Question 5: Take note of the relationship between joy, hope, and trust. What do you think can happen to someone’s joy when their hope is placed in their own desired outcomes instead of in the faithful character of God? Consider concrete examples from your own life.
Question 6: Turn your reflections into a prayer to God. Talk to him about your pain, disappointment, and needs. Ask him to give you the courage to recognize, remember, and rely on his faithful character. May he encourage and renew your joy in the process.
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In this week’s Bible Study, we are reflecting on hope. Biblical hope is different from optimism, enduring even in the most difficult of circumstances. While optimism is based on the belief that things will work out for the best, biblical hope is based on God’s unchanging character and promises. Listen to the recording below and interact with the following discussion questions to learn more. If you find this study to be encouraging, tell us on social media using the hashtag #BibleProjectAdvent. We’d love to hear from you.
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Read and Discuss
Video Question How did the video help you better understand the meaning of biblical hope?
Message Question How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Psalm 62
In Psalm 62, David is surrounded by murderous enemies. Though he had little reason to cling to hope, David still was able to say, “My hope comes from God.” David, like many other people in the Bible, faced difficult times with no evidence that things would get better, but they chose hope anyway.
Question 1: What problem was David up against, and how did he respond? What problems are you facing today? How will you respond?
Question 2: Notice how David repeated the word “only.” What do you think the significance of that is? What other things do people tend to put their hope in besides God (see 62:9-10)?
Question 3: Review verse 11-12. What do you think would change in your life if you believed this without any doubts? How do the truths in verses 11-12 help you put your hope in God?
Question 4: Review verse 8. Take some time now to pour out your heart before God. Tell him everything that’s weighing you down and trust him with every detail. He hears you.
Video Question How did the video help you better understand the meaning of biblical hope?
Message Question How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Psalm 62
In Psalm 62, David is surrounded by murderous enemies. Though he had little reason to cling to hope, David still was able to say, “My hope comes from God.” David, like many other people in the Bible, faced difficult times with no evidence that things would get better, but they chose hope anyway.
Question 1: What problem was David up against, and how did he respond? What problems are you facing today? How will you respond?
Question 2: Notice how David repeated the word “only.” What do you think the significance of that is? What other things do people tend to put their hope in besides God (see 62:9-10)?
Question 3: Review verse 11-12. What do you think would change in your life if you believed this without any doubts? How do the truths in verses 11-12 help you put your hope in God?
Question 4: Review verse 8. Take some time now to pour out your heart before God. Tell him everything that’s weighing you down and trust him with every detail. He hears you.
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Unpacking Genesis 1
To better understand the biblical story, we have to recognize the key themes and perspectives presented in Genesis 1. This first chapter sets the stage for the rest of the Bible and reveals God’s ideal for his creation. In our latest video, we look at the literary design of Genesis 1 and the ancient understanding of the ordered world. |
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Listening to the Bible read out loud in community can be a life-changing experience. In this week’s Bible Study, we are exploring how vital this ancient practice is for shaping our perspectives and beliefs. Listen to the message, watch the video, and interact with the ideas and discussion questions below to learn more about the public reading of Scripture.
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Share one idea that taught, challenged, or encouraged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
There are many benefits to reading the Bible aloud with your community. When we read a whole section of Scripture at once, we can better understand the overarching message. Another benefit is that hearing engages our thoughts, memory, and attention in a different way than reading does. As modern Christians, we tend to focus on individual reflection, but reading the Bible in community gives us the opportunity to observe and apply the truth of Scripture more than we could on our own. It can also provide motivation for deeper study, insight, and structure. So this week, we hope you will enjoy the benefits of reading the Bible aloud with others. Let’s practice with this exercise today.
Choose one selection below to read out loud.
Psalm 24, 47, and 103. (1-2 minutes for each psalm)
Ephesians (20-25 minutes)
Ruth (15-20 minutes)
John 14-17 (15-20 minutes)
James (15-20 minutes)
Here are some ideas for how you can read in community today.
Schedule a virtual or in-person gathering with a few people and read aloud together.
Record a voice memo of yourself reading the passage aloud and listen back to it, or send it to a friend and ask if they can do the same for you.
Listen to a free audio Bible online. Invite a family member, neighbor, or friend to join you.
Feel free to simply listen to the reading of the Scripture. But if it helps, here are some ideas for how you can focus your attention as you listen.
Pray before you listen. Ask for God’s Spirit to help you understand and respond.
Listen for repeated words and patterns to help you discover the main idea.
Doodle images that symbolize the message you hear.
Listen to the same passage more than once in the same sitting.
Close your eyes and visualize the message as if it were a movie.
Follow along in your Bible to underline or highlight passages that especially capture your attention.
Debrief your experience.
What idea did you choose to help you focus your attention?
What was enjoyable? What was difficult? What surprised you?
What did you learn or notice as you listened to the passage?
What’s another way you can practice reading aloud in community this week?
Question 1: Share one idea that taught, challenged, or encouraged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
There are many benefits to reading the Bible aloud with your community. When we read a whole section of Scripture at once, we can better understand the overarching message. Another benefit is that hearing engages our thoughts, memory, and attention in a different way than reading does. As modern Christians, we tend to focus on individual reflection, but reading the Bible in community gives us the opportunity to observe and apply the truth of Scripture more than we could on our own. It can also provide motivation for deeper study, insight, and structure. So this week, we hope you will enjoy the benefits of reading the Bible aloud with others. Let’s practice with this exercise today.
Choose one selection below to read out loud.
Psalm 24, 47, and 103. (1-2 minutes for each psalm)
Ephesians (20-25 minutes)
Ruth (15-20 minutes)
John 14-17 (15-20 minutes)
James (15-20 minutes)
Here are some ideas for how you can read in community today.
Schedule a virtual or in-person gathering with a few people and read aloud together.
Record a voice memo of yourself reading the passage aloud and listen back to it, or send it to a friend and ask if they can do the same for you.
Listen to a free audio Bible online. Invite a family member, neighbor, or friend to join you.
Feel free to simply listen to the reading of the Scripture. But if it helps, here are some ideas for how you can focus your attention as you listen.
Pray before you listen. Ask for God’s Spirit to help you understand and respond.
Listen for repeated words and patterns to help you discover the main idea.
Doodle images that symbolize the message you hear.
Listen to the same passage more than once in the same sitting.
Close your eyes and visualize the message as if it were a movie.
Follow along in your Bible to underline or highlight passages that especially capture your attention.
Debrief your experience.
What idea did you choose to help you focus your attention?
What was enjoyable? What was difficult? What surprised you?
What did you learn or notice as you listened to the passage?
What’s another way you can practice reading aloud in community this week?
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If you do a web search for “the Day of the Lord,” you’ll find all kinds of end-of-the-world predictions. But if you carefully trace this theme throughout the story of the Bible, you’ll discover a very different picture. In this week’s Bible Study, we are exploring the true meaning of the Day of the Lord. We invite you to listen to the recording below, watch the video, and interact with the discussion questions to learn more.
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Read and Discuss
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Amos 5:4-27
The Day of the Lord is an event in time when God brings judgment on oppressors in order to relieve the oppressed. The Passover event serves as an archetype to best understand this concept. In Exodus 12, we learn that God’s judgment passed through Egypt to hold the nation accountable and passed over Israel to rescue them from death and slavery. God then instructed the people of Israel to observe Passover every year, so that they would remember his deliverance and defense of the afflicted. For Israel, the Day of the Lord was something to celebrate, until Israel began to resemble their former oppressors.
This brings us to the prophet Amos, who exposes Israel’s exploitation of the poor and calls on them to change. Israel is now engaging in the same corrupt ways of Babylon and Egypt. They have made themselves into God’s enemy, and the Day of the Lord, which once brought their rescue, will now bring God’s justice.
Question 1: What thoughts, questions, or insights came up as you read today’s passage?
Question 2: Compare the Passover event (Exodus 12:21-27) with the judgment heading towards Israel because of their corruption (Amos 5:16-20). Notice how the words “pass through” or “pass over” are used in both passages. What do you observe, and why is this significant?
Question 3: Review Amos 5:21-24. God calls his people to show their love for him by loving others. So when Israel robs the poor while offering gifts of worship, God can’t stand it and won’t accept their gifts. How does Israel serve as a mirror for communal reflection and self-critique? Identify one specific area in your life, community, city, or country where love for people is neglected while religious rituals continue.
Question 4: God urges his people to “let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like a never-failing stream (Amos 5:24).” The Bible defines justice as actions that correct injustice, and righteousness refers to upholding the standard of right equitable relationships between people despite social differences. What is one practical thing you can do to act with justice and righteousness this week?
Question 5: Turn your reading and reflections into a prayer from your heart. Thank God for providing a way to escape oppression and be honest about the ways you perpetuate or tolerate the oppression of others. Ask for courage to stand up for the poor and vulnerable in your community.
Message Question: How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Amos 5:4-27
The Day of the Lord is an event in time when God brings judgment on oppressors in order to relieve the oppressed. The Passover event serves as an archetype to best understand this concept. In Exodus 12, we learn that God’s judgment passed through Egypt to hold the nation accountable and passed over Israel to rescue them from death and slavery. God then instructed the people of Israel to observe Passover every year, so that they would remember his deliverance and defense of the afflicted. For Israel, the Day of the Lord was something to celebrate, until Israel began to resemble their former oppressors.
This brings us to the prophet Amos, who exposes Israel’s exploitation of the poor and calls on them to change. Israel is now engaging in the same corrupt ways of Babylon and Egypt. They have made themselves into God’s enemy, and the Day of the Lord, which once brought their rescue, will now bring God’s justice.
Question 1: What thoughts, questions, or insights came up as you read today’s passage?
Question 2: Compare the Passover event (Exodus 12:21-27) with the judgment heading towards Israel because of their corruption (Amos 5:16-20). Notice how the words “pass through” or “pass over” are used in both passages. What do you observe, and why is this significant?
Question 3: Review Amos 5:21-24. God calls his people to show their love for him by loving others. So when Israel robs the poor while offering gifts of worship, God can’t stand it and won’t accept their gifts. How does Israel serve as a mirror for communal reflection and self-critique? Identify one specific area in your life, community, city, or country where love for people is neglected while religious rituals continue.
Question 4: God urges his people to “let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like a never-failing stream (Amos 5:24).” The Bible defines justice as actions that correct injustice, and righteousness refers to upholding the standard of right equitable relationships between people despite social differences. What is one practical thing you can do to act with justice and righteousness this week?
Question 5: Turn your reading and reflections into a prayer from your heart. Thank God for providing a way to escape oppression and be honest about the ways you perpetuate or tolerate the oppression of others. Ask for courage to stand up for the poor and vulnerable in your community.
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To be an exile is to experience the devastating reality of being driven out of a secure place of belonging. In this week’s Bible Study, we are reflecting on the biblical theme of exile to understand how God’s people are to rely on him in the midst of isolation and uncertainty. We invite you to listen to the recording below and interact with the following discussion questions, so that you can have a thorough understanding of this important biblical theme.
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Message Question
Share one idea that taught, challenged, or encouraged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
Read: Psalm 34
Psalm 34 reminds us that God is our refuge—our place of security in the midst of chaos and distress. This psalm teaches us to maintain hope in God rather than seek security elsewhere. When the future feels uncertain, we should focus on doing good, seek peace in our lives and our communities, and trust that God consistently meets his people in their experiences of exile.
Question 1: What verse most captures your attention and why?
Question 2: This psalm is set in a time of exile for David, as he experienced the painful loss of belonging. Share how you’ve experienced feelings of exile in your own life.
Question 3: Slowly reread verses 5-8 about taking refuge in God with your own experiences of exile in mind. What thoughts or feelings come up as you read?
Question 4: To take refuge in God means to look to him for comfort and security in the midst of chaos. What other sources (positive or negative) do you tend to look to for comfort and security during times of trouble? What happens when you put your hope in these sources instead of in God?
Question 5: In this passage, David offers wise counsel for when we lack security, belonging, or certainty in the future. “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies; turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (vv. 13-14). How specifically does this connect with your life right now?
Question 6: Let your reflection prompt a prayer to God. Thank him, be honest about how you struggle to hope in him alone, and ask him for what you need today.
Question 1: Message Question
Share one idea that taught, challenged, or encouraged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
Read: Psalm 34
Psalm 34 reminds us that God is our refuge—our place of security in the midst of chaos and distress. This psalm teaches us to maintain hope in God rather than seek security elsewhere. When the future feels uncertain, we should focus on doing good, seek peace in our lives and our communities, and trust that God consistently meets his people in their experiences of exile.
Question 1: What verse most captures your attention and why?
Question 2: This psalm is set in a time of exile for David, as he experienced the painful loss of belonging. Share how you’ve experienced feelings of exile in your own life.
Question 3: Slowly reread verses 5-8 about taking refuge in God with your own experiences of exile in mind. What thoughts or feelings come up as you read?
Question 4: To take refuge in God means to look to him for comfort and security in the midst of chaos. What other sources (positive or negative) do you tend to look to for comfort and security during times of trouble? What happens when you put your hope in these sources instead of in God?
Question 5: In this passage, David offers wise counsel for when we lack security, belonging, or certainty in the future. “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies; turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (vv. 13-14). How specifically does this connect with your life right now?
Question 6: Let your reflection prompt a prayer to God. Thank him, be honest about how you struggle to hope in him alone, and ask him for what you need today.
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The God of the Bible is committed to working out his good plans through covenant human partners. Humans continually mess up their end of the covenant, but God remains devoted to his decision to partner with humanity. In this week’s Bible study, we are reflecting on God’s surprising plan to make up for humanity’s role in the covenant and how we can now live as renewed partners with him. To participate, listen to the recording, watch the video, and follow the Bible readings and discussion questions below.
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
Before watching the video, how would you describe the biblical meaning of a covenant? Jot down your description. After watching the video, how did your understanding of covenants expand or change?
Read: Jeremiah 31:31-34Luke 22:14-23
God is able to do his work in the world independent of humans, but he doesn’t. He is committed to working out his divine will through human covenant partnership, even when humans continually fail to uphold their end of the agreement. In Jesus, God becomes human to create a new humanity who is empowered to live in Jesus’ new covenant as partners with God.
Question 1: Reflect on the passages above. How does God describe his new covenant plan? Why and how will he make this new covenant? How is it different from the old covenant?
Question 2: Consider God’s relentless commitment to partner with humanity despite its violent and foolish history. What do you think this tells us about God’s character?
Question 3: Reflect on the sufferings of Jesus and how God himself was willing to absorb humanity’s violence and foolishness to reverse the past and start anew. What questions, thoughts, or feelings come up for you as you reflect on this?
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
In Jesus’ death and resurrection, we see that true covenant faithfulness looks like self-giving love. When we receive, trust, and imitate the love of Jesus, we begin to live as the humans God created us to be. We can once again glimpse the beauty God had in mind when he first created and partnered with humanity.
Question 1: Review 2 Corinthians 5:14-21. According to this passage, what does it look like to partner with God in his new humanity?
Question 2: Who is one person that is difficult to love in your life? How can you partner with God to forgive, love, and honor them this week?
Question 3: Identify a challenge in your family, neighborhood, or workplace where self-giving love could make all the difference. Take a moment and ask God to give you wisdom about how you can be a faithful covenant partner with him in that scenario this week.
Question 1: Video Question
Before watching the video, how would you describe the biblical meaning of a covenant? Jot down your description. After watching the video, how did your understanding of covenants expand or change?
Read: Jeremiah 31:31-34Luke 22:14-23
God is able to do his work in the world independent of humans, but he doesn’t. He is committed to working out his divine will through human covenant partnership, even when humans continually fail to uphold their end of the agreement. In Jesus, God becomes human to create a new humanity who is empowered to live in Jesus’ new covenant as partners with God.
Question 1: Reflect on the passages above. How does God describe his new covenant plan? Why and how will he make this new covenant? How is it different from the old covenant?
Question 2: Consider God’s relentless commitment to partner with humanity despite its violent and foolish history. What do you think this tells us about God’s character?
Question 3: Reflect on the sufferings of Jesus and how God himself was willing to absorb humanity’s violence and foolishness to reverse the past and start anew. What questions, thoughts, or feelings come up for you as you reflect on this?
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
In Jesus’ death and resurrection, we see that true covenant faithfulness looks like self-giving love. When we receive, trust, and imitate the love of Jesus, we begin to live as the humans God created us to be. We can once again glimpse the beauty God had in mind when he first created and partnered with humanity.
Question 1: Review 2 Corinthians 5:14-21. According to this passage, what does it look like to partner with God in his new humanity?
Question 2: Who is one person that is difficult to love in your life? How can you partner with God to forgive, love, and honor them this week?
Question 3: Identify a challenge in your family, neighborhood, or workplace where self-giving love could make all the difference. Take a moment and ask God to give you wisdom about how you can be a faithful covenant partner with him in that scenario this week.
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GOSPEL
Dr D. Carissa Quinn For many of us, the word “gospel” has lost its potency and power. The word “gospel” has become commonplace in many Christian traditions, and for many of us, the word has lost its potency and power. So in this week’s Bible Study, we are looking at how the Bible uses this word and the nuance that can get lost in translation. The word comes from the Greek word euangelion, and it simply means “good announcement” or “good news.” But it’s not just any kind of news. Euangelion most often refers to a royal announcement about a new king. So when Jesus’ followers proclaim the Gospel, they are announcing that Jesus is King. Listen to the message below to learn more about this good news and why Jesus wasn’t the king the people expected. This revolutionary gospel is no less relevant today, and this week we invite you to reflect on what it means for Jesus to be King. |
Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
Before watching this video, how did you understand the word “gospel?” How did this video change or add to your understanding?
Message Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
Read: Matthew 5:1-11
Jesus invites all to respond with allegiance to his role as King. Allegiance to King Jesus means turning toward him with trust in our minds, emotions, and actions. It means, joining with him and his way of life, aligning our lives with his character, and asking the Holy Spirit to empower, fill, and inspire us to live it all out. This new way of being is laid out so beautifully in the Sermon on the Mount. There we see that life under King Jesus involves forgiveness, generosity, humility, and seeking peace for all. It’s a life defined by love for God and for others.
Question 1: What verse caught your attention most and why?
Question 2: In many kingdoms, those at the top are rich and don’t think they need anything. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, the favored are those who understand their great need. They receive everything from him (vs. 3). What are your spiritual, emotional, and/or physical needs today?
Question 3: In many kingdoms, temporary comforts are pursued to avoid pain. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, those who weep with Jesus over the pain of this world will receive his eternal comfort (vs. 4). Share a story of a time when you, or someone you know, mourned with those who were suffering.
Question 4: In many kingdoms, power hungry bullies are often rewarded with more possessions and property. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, the gentle will receive the earth (vs. 5). Gentleness requires tremendous restraint and patience. Who is someone you would describe as gentle?
Question 5: Pray in response to Jesus’ description of his Kingdom. Talk to God about what inspired amazement, how you agree with his message, where you struggle, and what you need in order to embody your allegiance to King Jesus.
Question 1: Video Question
Before watching this video, how did you understand the word “gospel?” How did this video change or add to your understanding?
Message Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Carissa’s message.
Read: Matthew 5:1-11
Jesus invites all to respond with allegiance to his role as King. Allegiance to King Jesus means turning toward him with trust in our minds, emotions, and actions. It means, joining with him and his way of life, aligning our lives with his character, and asking the Holy Spirit to empower, fill, and inspire us to live it all out. This new way of being is laid out so beautifully in the Sermon on the Mount. There we see that life under King Jesus involves forgiveness, generosity, humility, and seeking peace for all. It’s a life defined by love for God and for others.
Question 1: What verse caught your attention most and why?
Question 2: In many kingdoms, those at the top are rich and don’t think they need anything. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, the favored are those who understand their great need. They receive everything from him (vs. 3). What are your spiritual, emotional, and/or physical needs today?
Question 3: In many kingdoms, temporary comforts are pursued to avoid pain. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, those who weep with Jesus over the pain of this world will receive his eternal comfort (vs. 4). Share a story of a time when you, or someone you know, mourned with those who were suffering.
Question 4: In many kingdoms, power hungry bullies are often rewarded with more possessions and property. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, the gentle will receive the earth (vs. 5). Gentleness requires tremendous restraint and patience. Who is someone you would describe as gentle?
Question 5: Pray in response to Jesus’ description of his Kingdom. Talk to God about what inspired amazement, how you agree with his message, where you struggle, and what you need in order to embody your allegiance to King Jesus.
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God’s holiness is rooted in his unique identity as the creator of the cosmos and the powerful source of all life and beauty and goodness. However, the power of God’s holiness is also dangerous to us as mortal creatures. But, in God’s desire to partner with humanity, he made a way for us to access his holy presence safely through Jesus. Jesus applies the dangerous heat of God’s holiness to the things that separate us from God. As we read the Bible, we see that wherever Jesus goes, sickness is healed, brokenness is made whole, and death gives into life. This tells us something significant about what it means to participate with Jesus’ ongoing work in the world. Those who follow Jesus are called to be agents of God’s transforming holiness. Listen to the recording below to understand more about this calling, and as you listen, reflect on concrete ways that you can live as an agent of God’s holiness to those around you.
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
How did your understanding of God’s holiness develop as you watched the video?
Voiceover Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Tim’s message.
Read: Isaiah 6:1-7
The prophet Isaiah has a wild and beautiful vision where he witnesses Yahweh on the throne and heavenly creatures calling out “holy, holy, holy.” Isaiah is unraveled by the sight and aware that he might be destroyed because of his impurity. But then a creature, the “seraphim,” touches Isaiah’s lips with a hot coal from God’s altar and tells him, “your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for.” Instead of being destroyed by this burning coal, it somehow makes Isaiah pure. Normally in the Bible, if something pure touches someone impure, the impurity transfers and defiles the purity. But Isaiah’s vision presents a new idea. Now we see a purified object transferring its purity onto someone impure. Isaiah is not ruined like he feared. He is transformed in the presence of God’s holiness.
Question 1: Take note that the coal in Isaiah’s vision is taken from the altar, the place where sacrifice is made. Reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for you in order to say, “your guilt is taken away.” What comes to mind?
Question 2: Isaiah says, “I am a man of unclean lips and come from a people of unclean lips.” Isaiah’s aware that unholy words defile a person. Jesus repeats this idea in Matthew 15:11. If all your words and the words of your people were tape recorded this past week, which words would you want Jesus to purify? Take time to pray to receive God’s forgiveness now.
Read: Mark 5:21-43
In Leviticus, we learn that sickness, blood, and death are impure, which makes sense. For example, we tend to step back when people cough, sterilize cuts, and wash our hands after preparing raw chicken. But it wasn’t just about hygiene for Israel. Being impure meant that you could not enter into God’s holy temple because impure things defiled holy things, and impure things were destroyed in the presence of God’s purity. But Isaiah’s vision revealed that this order could be reversed. When Jesus arrives on the scene, we see him fulfill and demonstrate the powerful implications of Isaiah’s vision. Jesus becomes the holy coal that atones for sin and destroys death and sickness without destroying the person. He doesn’t avoid people who have impurities; rather, he touches them in order to bring wholeness. Wherever he goes, the sick are made whole and the dead come alive.
Question 1: Where are signs of spiritual, moral, or relational decay present in your city? Where are people hurting and excluded? Write down the spaces that come to mind and circle the one that you sense is most neglected and in need.
Question 2: Take note of the list you made. Why do you think many people try to avoid these spaces of decay, hurt, and isolation? Why do you think Jesus intentionally goes into these places? As you read the passage in Mark, what do you notice about Jesus’ approach?
Question 3: As you consider the one space you circled, what are three concrete ways you could join or invite other Jesus followers to live as agents of God’s healing holiness in that place? What practical steps are needed to make these ideas a reality? Write them down.
Question 4: Pray over the space you circled along with each concrete idea you wrote down. Post your list somewhere you will see it and seek ways to carry it out this year. You can reach out to us on our social media (@thebibleproject) and tell us what space you are praying for. We would love to hear from you.
Question 1: Video Question
How did your understanding of God’s holiness develop as you watched the video?
Voiceover Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Tim’s message.
Read: Isaiah 6:1-7
The prophet Isaiah has a wild and beautiful vision where he witnesses Yahweh on the throne and heavenly creatures calling out “holy, holy, holy.” Isaiah is unraveled by the sight and aware that he might be destroyed because of his impurity. But then a creature, the “seraphim,” touches Isaiah’s lips with a hot coal from God’s altar and tells him, “your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for.” Instead of being destroyed by this burning coal, it somehow makes Isaiah pure. Normally in the Bible, if something pure touches someone impure, the impurity transfers and defiles the purity. But Isaiah’s vision presents a new idea. Now we see a purified object transferring its purity onto someone impure. Isaiah is not ruined like he feared. He is transformed in the presence of God’s holiness.
Question 1: Take note that the coal in Isaiah’s vision is taken from the altar, the place where sacrifice is made. Reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for you in order to say, “your guilt is taken away.” What comes to mind?
Question 2: Isaiah says, “I am a man of unclean lips and come from a people of unclean lips.” Isaiah’s aware that unholy words defile a person. Jesus repeats this idea in Matthew 15:11. If all your words and the words of your people were tape recorded this past week, which words would you want Jesus to purify? Take time to pray to receive God’s forgiveness now.
Read: Mark 5:21-43
In Leviticus, we learn that sickness, blood, and death are impure, which makes sense. For example, we tend to step back when people cough, sterilize cuts, and wash our hands after preparing raw chicken. But it wasn’t just about hygiene for Israel. Being impure meant that you could not enter into God’s holy temple because impure things defiled holy things, and impure things were destroyed in the presence of God’s purity. But Isaiah’s vision revealed that this order could be reversed. When Jesus arrives on the scene, we see him fulfill and demonstrate the powerful implications of Isaiah’s vision. Jesus becomes the holy coal that atones for sin and destroys death and sickness without destroying the person. He doesn’t avoid people who have impurities; rather, he touches them in order to bring wholeness. Wherever he goes, the sick are made whole and the dead come alive.
Question 1: Where are signs of spiritual, moral, or relational decay present in your city? Where are people hurting and excluded? Write down the spaces that come to mind and circle the one that you sense is most neglected and in need.
Question 2: Take note of the list you made. Why do you think many people try to avoid these spaces of decay, hurt, and isolation? Why do you think Jesus intentionally goes into these places? As you read the passage in Mark, what do you notice about Jesus’ approach?
Question 3: As you consider the one space you circled, what are three concrete ways you could join or invite other Jesus followers to live as agents of God’s healing holiness in that place? What practical steps are needed to make these ideas a reality? Write them down.
Question 4: Pray over the space you circled along with each concrete idea you wrote down. Post your list somewhere you will see it and seek ways to carry it out this year. You can reach out to us on our social media (@thebibleproject) and tell us what space you are praying for. We would love to hear from you.
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The Test
Why does God test people? In this video we trace the repeated theme of testing in the Bible and see how God determines the loyalty and trust of his covenant partners. Though these tests are rarely easy, they offer God’s people important opportunities for growth and transformation. |
Covenant Partners Tested
Throughout the Torah God repeatedly tests his covenant partners to see if they are willing to live by his wisdom. We see this testing in the stories of Abraham, Moses, and the nation of Israel. Though there are moments of faith in the face of extreme circumstances, humans continue to repeat the failures of the garden. Humanity is in desperate need of someone who can pass the ultimate test and make right the covenant that was broken in the garden.
Throughout the Torah God repeatedly tests his covenant partners to see if they are willing to live by his wisdom. We see this testing in the stories of Abraham, Moses, and the nation of Israel. Though there are moments of faith in the face of extreme circumstances, humans continue to repeat the failures of the garden. Humanity is in desperate need of someone who can pass the ultimate test and make right the covenant that was broken in the garden.
Jesus Passes the Test
All of this leads us to the story of Jesus, the Messiah. He passes the ultimate test by giving up his life for the sins of his people, and through him, God’s life and blessing goes out to all the nations, this is the Good News of the Bible. So while these tests are rarely easy, they are actually important opportunities for God’s people to grow and change, so that they can become agents of God’s blessing to the world around them.
All of this leads us to the story of Jesus, the Messiah. He passes the ultimate test by giving up his life for the sins of his people, and through him, God’s life and blessing goes out to all the nations, this is the Good News of the Bible. So while these tests are rarely easy, they are actually important opportunities for God’s people to grow and change, so that they can become agents of God’s blessing to the world around them.
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In the book of Genesis, the garden of Eden is portrayed as a high place where heaven and earth are one and human relationships reflect this unity. But Eden is lost when humans rebel against God, so the unity between heaven, earth, and all humanity is fractured. God’s work throughout the rest of the Bible is all about recovering this lost unity. Israel’s tabernacle and temple served as symbolic Edens as they allowed for human and divine space to overlap. Because of Jesus, this place is no longer limited to one location, and the unity of Eden can be experienced wherever God’s people gather together in his love.
This is beautiful, but it also kind of sounds like a fantasy, especially when we acknowledge the Church’s brokenness and failures. For this week’s Bible study, we’re inviting you to reflect on what it really means to be a unified temple of God. When followers of Jesus bridge the dividing lines of race, class, and nationality, when they honor each other as equal members in God’s family, they become a place where heaven and earth are one. Listen in to the recording below to understand more about the rich symbolism of the temple and God’s Eden ideal for humanity. |
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
What part of the video stirred up curiosity, a new thought, or a sense of awe?
Question 2: Voiceover Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Tim’s message.
Read: Isaiah 2:1-5
Isaiah envisions a future day when the hill where Jerusalem’s temple sat will be exalted as the highest mountain in all creation. And all the nations will gather there, ending their long exile from Eden. Isaiah says that Yahweh will live in their midst and bring an end to all war and oppression. It’s a beautiful vision.
Question 1: Reflect on verse three. Notice the teamwork between all the nationalities in the phrase, “come let us.” Observe how their teamwork receives the way to God in order to walk in the ways of God. Compare this to the “come let us” teamwork in Genesis 11:3-4. What do you notice?
Read: Ephesians 2:11-22
All the nations, also known as Gentiles, were once separated from Israel’s temple. Literal walls kept them from accessing God’s presence on earth. But it was always God’s plan for Israel to be a light to all the nations, so that everyone could have access to his life and love. Though Israel failed to faithfully shine this light, Jesus carried Israel’s story forward by tearing down the walls of division and rebuilding the temple. But instead of building with bricks, this time he built a whole new temple made of both Jews and Gentiles. Now God’s presence can live inside of a unified multiethnic group of people.
Question 1: What stands out to you as you read this passage?
Question 2: What is hindering unity in the relationships within your family, church, and city? How has Jesus addressed those barriers with his death, resurrection, and ascension?
Question 3: Ask God to bring one person he wants to reach to your mind this week. Who is he/she? How will you reach out? Is there anything you need to repair in the relationship? Consider asking him/her to show you where God's power and presence is at work in their life. Listen and seek a connection.
Question 1: Video Question
What part of the video stirred up curiosity, a new thought, or a sense of awe?
Question 2: Voiceover Question
Share one idea that taught, encouraged, or challenged you as you listened to Tim’s message.
Read: Isaiah 2:1-5
Isaiah envisions a future day when the hill where Jerusalem’s temple sat will be exalted as the highest mountain in all creation. And all the nations will gather there, ending their long exile from Eden. Isaiah says that Yahweh will live in their midst and bring an end to all war and oppression. It’s a beautiful vision.
Question 1: Reflect on verse three. Notice the teamwork between all the nationalities in the phrase, “come let us.” Observe how their teamwork receives the way to God in order to walk in the ways of God. Compare this to the “come let us” teamwork in Genesis 11:3-4. What do you notice?
Read: Ephesians 2:11-22
All the nations, also known as Gentiles, were once separated from Israel’s temple. Literal walls kept them from accessing God’s presence on earth. But it was always God’s plan for Israel to be a light to all the nations, so that everyone could have access to his life and love. Though Israel failed to faithfully shine this light, Jesus carried Israel’s story forward by tearing down the walls of division and rebuilding the temple. But instead of building with bricks, this time he built a whole new temple made of both Jews and Gentiles. Now God’s presence can live inside of a unified multiethnic group of people.
Question 1: What stands out to you as you read this passage?
Question 2: What is hindering unity in the relationships within your family, church, and city? How has Jesus addressed those barriers with his death, resurrection, and ascension?
Question 3: Ask God to bring one person he wants to reach to your mind this week. Who is he/she? How will you reach out? Is there anything you need to repair in the relationship? Consider asking him/her to show you where God's power and presence is at work in their life. Listen and seek a connection.
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For this week’s Bible Study, we’re exploring the word witness — what it means and how it is used in the Bible. A witness is someone who sees something important or amazing and shares their experience with others. Yahweh called the nation of Israel to be his own witnesses, so that all other nations could see Yahweh as the one true God. Israel had some powerful encounters with Yahweh, so they were in a great position to do this. But they failed miserably, doing injustice and worshiping other gods just like the surrounding nations. Jesus proved to be the faithful witness Israel could not be, and through his life, death, resurrection, and ascension, he made a way for his followers to be faithful witnesses too. As followers of Jesus learn to bear witness to the loving character and powerful acts of God, the surrounding world can know and experience him too
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
How would you summarize this week’s video?
Read: Matthew 28:16-20
The disciples are told to go to a mountain after witnessing Jesus’ life, death, and powerful resurrection. When they see Jesus alive on the mount, this amazing encounter leads many to worship Jesus, but some of the disciples still doubt what they’ve seen. Jesus comes closer and tells his disciples to go to all the nations with the authority of his name, the testimony of his message, and the assurance of his constant presence.
Question 1: How can you bear witness to what you have seen, heard, and learned about Jesus?
Question 2: Why do you think some disciples doubted when they witnessed Jesus alive from the dead? What do you need to believe in order to move away from doubt into worshipful amazement?
Question 3: Review verse 19. What are disciples of Jesus commissioned to do exactly? What happens to our Christian witness when we neglect an aspect of this call (i.e., only make disciples of our own nationality or only teach some of Jesus’ commands)?
Question 4: What do you think can happen when we seek to obey Jesus’ commission (vs. 19) without remembering his promise to never leave us (vs. 20)? Reflect on this powerful promise and how it is fulfilled in the gift of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 1:3-9). In response, pray to receive or remember his gift.
Question 1: Video Question
How would you summarize this week’s video?
Read: Matthew 28:16-20
The disciples are told to go to a mountain after witnessing Jesus’ life, death, and powerful resurrection. When they see Jesus alive on the mount, this amazing encounter leads many to worship Jesus, but some of the disciples still doubt what they’ve seen. Jesus comes closer and tells his disciples to go to all the nations with the authority of his name, the testimony of his message, and the assurance of his constant presence.
Question 1: How can you bear witness to what you have seen, heard, and learned about Jesus?
Question 2: Why do you think some disciples doubted when they witnessed Jesus alive from the dead? What do you need to believe in order to move away from doubt into worshipful amazement?
Question 3: Review verse 19. What are disciples of Jesus commissioned to do exactly? What happens to our Christian witness when we neglect an aspect of this call (i.e., only make disciples of our own nationality or only teach some of Jesus’ commands)?
Question 4: What do you think can happen when we seek to obey Jesus’ commission (vs. 19) without remembering his promise to never leave us (vs. 20)? Reflect on this powerful promise and how it is fulfilled in the gift of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 1:3-9). In response, pray to receive or remember his gift.
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Animal sacrifice is one of those things in the Bible that can be hard for modern readers to come to terms with. Though it may seem strange, animal sacrifice was a common practice across the ancient world. The practice is introduced in the Bible in Genesis 22 when God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son as an act of surrender. Wait, what?! Let’s back up. God had promised Abraham that he would bless the world through his family, but instead of trusting and surrendering to God, Abraham tried to fulfill the promise on his own. This led to broken relationships, oppression, and violence. So God tested Abraham to see if he would give up his way and trust in God’s way. And Abraham trusted God, following his instruction to sacrifice his son, and, right on time, God provided a ram as a sacrificial substitute.
The story of Abraham and the practices of sacrifice in the Torah all point us to Jesus. Jesus followed God’s plan for blessing the world and became the sacrificial substitute. And Jesus’ sacrifice is one we can rely on. When we go to the mountain to sacrifice ourselves to God, we’ll find Jesus there offering himself in our place. In this week’s study, we’ll reflect on the concept of becoming “living sacrifices” in response to Jesus’ ultimate act of sacrifice. |
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Read and Discuss Question
1: Video Question How did the video help you further appreciate or understand Jesus’ sacrifice?
Read: Romans 12
In the letter to the Romans, Paul writes about Jesus’ sacrificial mercies towards us and invites us to put our hope in these mercies. In light of what Jesus sacrificed, Paul calls us to offer ourselves as “living sacrifices” in response. This means relying on what Jesus has already accomplished through the cross and joining in his sacrificial lifestyle—becoming like him. This is a totally different way to live because the world teaches us to pursue goodness, pleasure, and perfection apart from Jesus. When we become living sacrifices, we are transformed by the good, pleasing, and perfect will of Yahweh, leading to a life of sacrificial love and humility that serves others and overcomes evil with good.
Question 1: What stood out to you most in this chapter?
Question 2: What happens to our communities when we rely on Jesus’ sacrifice but neglect to join him in a sacrificial lifestyle? Why is belief and action so important?
Question 3: Paul gives some practical guidance for what it means to be a living sacrifice. A transformed lifestyle includes a humble mindset (3-5), that serves in community (6-13), and overcomes wrongdoing with good (14-21). How did Jesus model and empower this lifestyle? How is this lifestyle different from what you’ve seen in the world, and how does it display Yahweh’s good, pleasing, and perfect will?
Question 4: What is one area where you relate more to the world’s lifestyle than to Jesus’ humble, serving, and overcoming lifestyle? Pray for a renewed mindset.
Question 5: Jesus’ humble sacrifice made us one in him. Reflect on the connection between sacrifice, humility, and unity in verses 1-5. What happens to unity when all members are not honored as equally valuable? What is one sacrificial act of humility you can do this week to build unity in your church or family?
1: Video Question How did the video help you further appreciate or understand Jesus’ sacrifice?
Read: Romans 12
In the letter to the Romans, Paul writes about Jesus’ sacrificial mercies towards us and invites us to put our hope in these mercies. In light of what Jesus sacrificed, Paul calls us to offer ourselves as “living sacrifices” in response. This means relying on what Jesus has already accomplished through the cross and joining in his sacrificial lifestyle—becoming like him. This is a totally different way to live because the world teaches us to pursue goodness, pleasure, and perfection apart from Jesus. When we become living sacrifices, we are transformed by the good, pleasing, and perfect will of Yahweh, leading to a life of sacrificial love and humility that serves others and overcomes evil with good.
Question 1: What stood out to you most in this chapter?
Question 2: What happens to our communities when we rely on Jesus’ sacrifice but neglect to join him in a sacrificial lifestyle? Why is belief and action so important?
Question 3: Paul gives some practical guidance for what it means to be a living sacrifice. A transformed lifestyle includes a humble mindset (3-5), that serves in community (6-13), and overcomes wrongdoing with good (14-21). How did Jesus model and empower this lifestyle? How is this lifestyle different from what you’ve seen in the world, and how does it display Yahweh’s good, pleasing, and perfect will?
Question 4: What is one area where you relate more to the world’s lifestyle than to Jesus’ humble, serving, and overcoming lifestyle? Pray for a renewed mindset.
Question 5: Jesus’ humble sacrifice made us one in him. Reflect on the connection between sacrifice, humility, and unity in verses 1-5. What happens to unity when all members are not honored as equally valuable? What is one sacrificial act of humility you can do this week to build unity in your church or family?
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Character of God: Grace
What does it mean to say that the God of the Bible is gracious? In this video, we’ll look at the Hebrew words for grace and understand it to be a rich concept that has profound implications for how we see God. When we look to the biblical meaning of grace and understand God as gracious, we see a God who loves to give generous gifts to undeserving people. |
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Lamentations is a collection of Hebrew poems that focuses on the grief, pain, and suffering that came out of living in Jerusalem when it was besieged by the armies of Babylon and eventually captured, plundered, and destroyed. The poet acknowledges that Jerusalem’s fall was an act of Yahweh’s justice, but he still laments, and even protests, the suffering that took place. He draws attention to how terrible the situation was and then calls for God to hear the suffering of his people and respond.
These laments give a sacred dignity to the emotion we feel when we see injustice and suffering. Through studying Lamentations, we can learn to see lament as an important spiritual exercise that brings our anger, pain, and confusion to God, trusting that he cares about it too. In this week’s study, we will practice lamentation as we focus on the poem at the book’s center, Lamentations chapter 3. |
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Question 1: Video Question
How did your understanding of Lamentations expand as you watched the video?
Read: Lamentations 3
Learning to lament is an uncomfortable yet important part of our spiritual growth, and since there’s so much worth lamenting in the world right now, this is an appropriate time to practice. May God give us hearts big enough to take up the pain of the world and bring it to him in prayer.
Question 1: What is one broken reality that comes to mind as you allow Lamentations 3 to shift your mood?
Question 2: What about this broken reality would be wrong in God’s eyes? How does this circumstance go against God’s plan for his world? Take time to protest, process your emotion, and voice any confusion in a heartfelt prayer.
Question 3: Consider Jesus’ cross and empty tomb as you lament this broken reality. How did Jesus enter into the sufferings of the world? How does Jesus’ resurrection change your perspective on the state of the world?
Question 4: Notice how the poet does not place his hope in improved circumstances; rather, he places his hope in Yahweh (vs. 24). What do you think it looks like to place our hope in Yahweh instead of in our desired outcomes?
Question 5: How do the truths in verses 21-26 help us hope in Yahweh while we grieve?
How did your understanding of Lamentations expand as you watched the video?
Read: Lamentations 3
Learning to lament is an uncomfortable yet important part of our spiritual growth, and since there’s so much worth lamenting in the world right now, this is an appropriate time to practice. May God give us hearts big enough to take up the pain of the world and bring it to him in prayer.
Question 1: What is one broken reality that comes to mind as you allow Lamentations 3 to shift your mood?
Question 2: What about this broken reality would be wrong in God’s eyes? How does this circumstance go against God’s plan for his world? Take time to protest, process your emotion, and voice any confusion in a heartfelt prayer.
Question 3: Consider Jesus’ cross and empty tomb as you lament this broken reality. How did Jesus enter into the sufferings of the world? How does Jesus’ resurrection change your perspective on the state of the world?
Question 4: Notice how the poet does not place his hope in improved circumstances; rather, he places his hope in Yahweh (vs. 24). What do you think it looks like to place our hope in Yahweh instead of in our desired outcomes?
Question 5: How do the truths in verses 21-26 help us hope in Yahweh while we grieve?
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In this week’s Church at Home, we look at the book of Psalms and a powerful lament poem found in Psalm 88. Though different from other biblical books, the book of Psalms still tells a complete story, and the individual poems follow a common narrative structure. But Psalm 88 is a bit different, seemingly breaking from this structure and laying bare the depths of the psalmist’s hopelessness. The psalmist’s only prayer here is “help.” And sometimes, when the darkness around us feels more than we can handle, that is all we can muster to say to God. This Psalm is an important reminder that there is no need to sugarcoat or make our pain presentable before God. He hears the cries of his children even when we hardly have the words to communicate. As you meditate on this passage this week, think of this psalm as an invitation to bring your suffering before God, knowing that he cares deeply for his people.
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READ Psalm 88
The book of Psalms communicates a story that follows the rise and fall of the Davidic kingdom, a renewed hope in Yahweh the king, and a righteous king to come. Psalm 88 comes at the darkest moment of the plot and expresses that despair tangibly.
Question 1: As you read through Psalm 88, notice what griefs and pains the psalmist expresses. What stands out to you?
Question 2: The psalmist does not hold back his grief or anger when he talks to God. How does that sit with you? Do you give yourself the freedom to express all your deepest emotions and thoughts to God. If not, what holds you back?
Question 3: Have you ever found yourself in a place where the only prayer you can muster is “help?” Have you ever felt that deep loneliness that the psalmist expresses? What are your deepest pain points at the present moment? Write or pray out loud to God, even if your only prayer is “help.”
Question 4: Have you ever read through the Psalter, or a group of psalms, looking for how they connect to one another? How does this idea sit with you? If you are interested, we’d suggest reading through some psalms and looking for repeated words and themes that link them. Starting with Psalms 1-2 is a great idea, or you could look at 88-90, the psalms brought up in our study today.
The book of Psalms communicates a story that follows the rise and fall of the Davidic kingdom, a renewed hope in Yahweh the king, and a righteous king to come. Psalm 88 comes at the darkest moment of the plot and expresses that despair tangibly.
Question 1: As you read through Psalm 88, notice what griefs and pains the psalmist expresses. What stands out to you?
Question 2: The psalmist does not hold back his grief or anger when he talks to God. How does that sit with you? Do you give yourself the freedom to express all your deepest emotions and thoughts to God. If not, what holds you back?
Question 3: Have you ever found yourself in a place where the only prayer you can muster is “help?” Have you ever felt that deep loneliness that the psalmist expresses? What are your deepest pain points at the present moment? Write or pray out loud to God, even if your only prayer is “help.”
Question 4: Have you ever read through the Psalter, or a group of psalms, looking for how they connect to one another? How does this idea sit with you? If you are interested, we’d suggest reading through some psalms and looking for repeated words and themes that link them. Starting with Psalms 1-2 is a great idea, or you could look at 88-90, the psalms brought up in our study today.
Me’od
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Question 1: Video Question
How did the video expand your understanding of the word me’od?
Read: Matthew 6:19-34
What do we have much of? Our “muchness,” or how much we have, can easily become what we love. But God calls us instead to use all that we are and have to love him and others. When we use our muchness in this way, it receives the joy and security of God’s own muchness and becomes even more valuable.
Question 1: What did you observe as you read the passage? What beliefs and responses do you think this passage is inviting you to?
Question 2: Think of all the experiences, challenges, talents, relationships, possessions, time, and health that you have. This is what you can think of as your muchness. List three to five specific examples of your muchness.
Question 3: Sometimes we think our muchness is not very much, so we anxiously hoard it. Next to each of the things you listed in the above question, write one way you might be prone to worry. How do these worries hinder you from using your muchness to love God and others? Take some time now to admit your worries to God in prayer.
Question 4: Jesus’ teachings remind us of our value and also of God’s generous provision to help us in times of distress or worry. Next to each item on your list, write one way God has expressed his care and provision towards you. Take time now to thank God in prayer.
Question 5: Consider your list again. What would it practically look like to use your muchness to love God and others? What is one step you can take today? Remember that God is with you, strengthening you to carry it out.
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God is Like a Nursing Mother
The Bible uses many images to describe the character of God, but few are quite as striking as the image of a nursing mother. When God describes himself to Moses in Exodus 34:6-7, the first word he uses is “compassionate,” or rakhum, a Hebrew word closely related to the word “womb.” In our latest blog post, God is Like a Nursing Mother, we explore the portrait of God as a parent who expresses deep emotion and tender care. |
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Ephesians
Dr. Tim Mackie In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus. |
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Read and Discuss
Question 1:Video Question
What stood out to you most in the video and why?
Read: Ephesians 1:9-10; Ephesians 2:11-22; Ephesians 4:1-5:2;
In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he speaks to Jews and non-Jews, two groups that were divided by so many factors it would have taken an act of God to unite them. In the first three chapters, Paul teaches about the great measures God took in order to make these two groups into one new humanity in Jesus. Then in the last three chapters, Paul shows them how Jesus’ unifying work should impact every relationship and aspect of their lives.
Question 1: Reread Ephesians 1:9-10 and 2:11-22 and note all the words that communicate unity (both, all, together, etc...).
Question 2: What are two groups in your community that disagree with one another about a current issue?
Question 3: Growth in Jesus requires speaking the truth in love (see Ephesians 4:15). Think about the two groups that came to mind in the question above. What happens in these groups when truth is not spoken in love or when love is spoken without truth?
Question 4: Consider the needs of the person or group that has opposite views from you. What truthful and loving words do you think would most benefit them today? Think about Ephesians 4:29.
Question 5: Take note of the dangers of dealing with anger inappropriately (see Ephesians 4:25-31). How do you think fractured communication can make us vulnerable to the satan’s work and grieve the Holy Spirit?
Question 6: Reflect on Jesus’ example of sacrificial love (see Ephesians 4:32-5:1-2). Who needs your forgiveness today? Take time to pray for them.
Question 1:Video Question
What stood out to you most in the video and why?
Read: Ephesians 1:9-10; Ephesians 2:11-22; Ephesians 4:1-5:2;
In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he speaks to Jews and non-Jews, two groups that were divided by so many factors it would have taken an act of God to unite them. In the first three chapters, Paul teaches about the great measures God took in order to make these two groups into one new humanity in Jesus. Then in the last three chapters, Paul shows them how Jesus’ unifying work should impact every relationship and aspect of their lives.
Question 1: Reread Ephesians 1:9-10 and 2:11-22 and note all the words that communicate unity (both, all, together, etc...).
Question 2: What are two groups in your community that disagree with one another about a current issue?
Question 3: Growth in Jesus requires speaking the truth in love (see Ephesians 4:15). Think about the two groups that came to mind in the question above. What happens in these groups when truth is not spoken in love or when love is spoken without truth?
Question 4: Consider the needs of the person or group that has opposite views from you. What truthful and loving words do you think would most benefit them today? Think about Ephesians 4:29.
Question 5: Take note of the dangers of dealing with anger inappropriately (see Ephesians 4:25-31). How do you think fractured communication can make us vulnerable to the satan’s work and grieve the Holy Spirit?
Question 6: Reflect on Jesus’ example of sacrificial love (see Ephesians 4:32-5:1-2). Who needs your forgiveness today? Take time to pray for them.
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TREE OF LIFE
Jon Collins In the opening pages of the Bible, God creates a garden, and right in the center is the tree of life. |
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Read and Discuss
Question 1:Video Question
How did this video expand your view of the tree of life?
Read: Proverbs 3
Proverbs is a letter from a wise father to his son. He speaks of the life-giving power of God’s wisdom and compares it to the tree of life, warning of the dangers of proudly ignoring godly wisdom. (Note: Throughout Proverbs, God’s wisdom is personified as a woman, so that’s what “she” and “her” refer to in vv. 13-18.)
Question 1: With all the good news that God’s wisdom holds, why do you think it’s so hard to follow it? Why do we so often choose to live by our own limited understanding?
Question 2: Compare verse 7 with Genesis 3:2-7. What do you observe? How can our eyes be deceived when defining good and bad?
Question 3: Consider a time in life when you followed God’s wisdom even though it defied your own understanding (see verses 5-8). What was that like?
Question 4: Picture yourself resting under the tree of life, basking in God’s wisdom. Pray and ask God to fill you with his wisdom, so you can be a tree of life for others (you can also check out Proverbs 15:4).
Question 1:Video Question
How did this video expand your view of the tree of life?
Read: Proverbs 3
Proverbs is a letter from a wise father to his son. He speaks of the life-giving power of God’s wisdom and compares it to the tree of life, warning of the dangers of proudly ignoring godly wisdom. (Note: Throughout Proverbs, God’s wisdom is personified as a woman, so that’s what “she” and “her” refer to in vv. 13-18.)
Question 1: With all the good news that God’s wisdom holds, why do you think it’s so hard to follow it? Why do we so often choose to live by our own limited understanding?
Question 2: Compare verse 7 with Genesis 3:2-7. What do you observe? How can our eyes be deceived when defining good and bad?
Question 3: Consider a time in life when you followed God’s wisdom even though it defied your own understanding (see verses 5-8). What was that like?
Question 4: Picture yourself resting under the tree of life, basking in God’s wisdom. Pray and ask God to fill you with his wisdom, so you can be a tree of life for others (you can also check out Proverbs 15:4).
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Transgression
Dr. Tim Mackie In this week’s Church at Home Bible study, we look at the word "transgression" in the Bible, which refers to ways that people betray or violate someone’s trust. |
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: From the video, how would you define the biblical word transgression?
Question 2: Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own experience of being betrayed or having someone break our trust. Is there a particular moment or situation that comes to mind? What is the feeling associated with this experience?
Read: Amos 2:4-10
Here the prophet Amos accuses the Israelites of “three, even four transgressions” against Yahweh their God. Notice that the behavior he describes is a violation of the covenant terms that Israel agreed to at Mount Sinai. They reject the Torah, fail to keep God’s laws, and allow injustice against the poor and oppressed. Amos is not just saying these are bad things, though that’s true. They are acts of betrayal against the promise they made to God. In the wider context of Amos 1-2, he targets violent war crimes of Israel’s neighbors, and he calls these “transgressions.” In Amos’ view of God and the world, acts against other people are actually acts against God himself.
Question 1: In what way do you think betrayal of trust against another human is transgression against God?
Question 2: Prophets like Amos often stood up and called out the breaking of trust that they saw in and around them. How does this idea resonate with you?
Read: Psalm 32
This poem is a celebration of God’s mercy and forgiveness for people who have broken his trust. Along with many other biblical words for sin, David uses the word “transgression” two times to describe how he betrayed God (vv. 1 and 5). But he also knows that God will never reject someone who is willing to name their failures and acts of betrayal and ask for forgiveness. Owning up to our failures is one thing, but to confess how we have violated someone’s trust––that’s pretty humiliating. But David warns us not to be like a stubborn mule who resists anything difficult. God’s mercy and love are available to those who are willing to trust him to forgive, even those who betray him.
Question 1: Take a moment to reflect on the ways you have broken someone else’s trust, whether it’s a friend, a family member, or someone you don’t have a relationship with but failed to honor as someone made in the image of God.
Question 2: Read Psalm 32 as your own meditation, confessing your transgression and choosing to trust that God forgives those who betray him.
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Paul explains to the Christians in Corinth that it is the generous love of the Messiah that wakes him up every day and compels him to travel, talk to people about Jesus, and start new churches. He’s convinced that following Jesus is how we begin to experience the power of the new creation. And it’s all a gift! He describes God as someone who doesn’t hold our acts of betrayal (that is, our transgressions) against us. Rather, God wants to be reconciled to those who have wronged him, and that’s what God accomplished through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Question 1: What could it look like for love of the Messiah to compel us to share God’s message of reconciliation?
Question 2: How else could you play a role in healing the violations of trust that have happened in your city or in your family?
Question 1: From the video, how would you define the biblical word transgression?
Question 2: Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own experience of being betrayed or having someone break our trust. Is there a particular moment or situation that comes to mind? What is the feeling associated with this experience?
Read: Amos 2:4-10
Here the prophet Amos accuses the Israelites of “three, even four transgressions” against Yahweh their God. Notice that the behavior he describes is a violation of the covenant terms that Israel agreed to at Mount Sinai. They reject the Torah, fail to keep God’s laws, and allow injustice against the poor and oppressed. Amos is not just saying these are bad things, though that’s true. They are acts of betrayal against the promise they made to God. In the wider context of Amos 1-2, he targets violent war crimes of Israel’s neighbors, and he calls these “transgressions.” In Amos’ view of God and the world, acts against other people are actually acts against God himself.
Question 1: In what way do you think betrayal of trust against another human is transgression against God?
Question 2: Prophets like Amos often stood up and called out the breaking of trust that they saw in and around them. How does this idea resonate with you?
Read: Psalm 32
This poem is a celebration of God’s mercy and forgiveness for people who have broken his trust. Along with many other biblical words for sin, David uses the word “transgression” two times to describe how he betrayed God (vv. 1 and 5). But he also knows that God will never reject someone who is willing to name their failures and acts of betrayal and ask for forgiveness. Owning up to our failures is one thing, but to confess how we have violated someone’s trust––that’s pretty humiliating. But David warns us not to be like a stubborn mule who resists anything difficult. God’s mercy and love are available to those who are willing to trust him to forgive, even those who betray him.
Question 1: Take a moment to reflect on the ways you have broken someone else’s trust, whether it’s a friend, a family member, or someone you don’t have a relationship with but failed to honor as someone made in the image of God.
Question 2: Read Psalm 32 as your own meditation, confessing your transgression and choosing to trust that God forgives those who betray him.
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Paul explains to the Christians in Corinth that it is the generous love of the Messiah that wakes him up every day and compels him to travel, talk to people about Jesus, and start new churches. He’s convinced that following Jesus is how we begin to experience the power of the new creation. And it’s all a gift! He describes God as someone who doesn’t hold our acts of betrayal (that is, our transgressions) against us. Rather, God wants to be reconciled to those who have wronged him, and that’s what God accomplished through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Question 1: What could it look like for love of the Messiah to compel us to share God’s message of reconciliation?
Question 2: How else could you play a role in healing the violations of trust that have happened in your city or in your family?
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GOD
BY Dr. Carissa Quinn In this week’s Church at Home, we will reflect on the identity of Yahweh as a complex being––one God and at the same time Father, Son, and Spirit. |
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Read and Discuss
Video Question
What’s one thing you were most surprised by in this video?
Read: John 17:20-24
God’s very essence is love. He has eternally existed within a community, or triunity, of love. Jesus’ prayer, recorded in John’s Gospel, gives us a glimpse into the love and unity Jesus has always shared with his Father. It also shows us how committed he is to helping us participate in this divine community of love and oneness.
Question 1: What questions or thoughts surface for you as you reflect on the passage?
Question 2: Jesus prayed that his disciples would be one just as he’s one with God the Father (see vs. 21). How do you practice oneness in your relationships right now? Where is more practice needed? Take some time to echo Jesus’ prayer for oneness.
Question 3: Consider vs 23. What happens when followers of Jesus live in oneness with God and with one another? What if onlookers can’t find a unified expression of love on earth? How might this affect how they view God?
Question 4: Describe the way the Father loves Jesus. Reflect on the reality that God the Father loves his disciples “even as” the Father loves Jesus (see vs. 23). What comes to mind as you reflect on this?
Read: Ephesians 4:1-6
Paul urges his listeners to live a life that matches God’s call to unity. He understands that without humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearing love, unity cannot exist. So he calls people to make every effort to keep the habits of unity that exist in the Spirit of God. God is one, and we too are called to be one.
Question 1: Notice the repeated words in this passage. What do you think Paul was trying to communicate by repeating these words?
Question 2: Where have you noticed expressions of humility, gentleness, patience, or love most recently?
Question 3: Think about a time when you were experiencing brokenness in a relationship. If you could travel back to that time, with this passage in mind, what would you do differently? What can you do today to build or rebuild a bond of peace?
Video Question
What’s one thing you were most surprised by in this video?
Read: John 17:20-24
God’s very essence is love. He has eternally existed within a community, or triunity, of love. Jesus’ prayer, recorded in John’s Gospel, gives us a glimpse into the love and unity Jesus has always shared with his Father. It also shows us how committed he is to helping us participate in this divine community of love and oneness.
Question 1: What questions or thoughts surface for you as you reflect on the passage?
Question 2: Jesus prayed that his disciples would be one just as he’s one with God the Father (see vs. 21). How do you practice oneness in your relationships right now? Where is more practice needed? Take some time to echo Jesus’ prayer for oneness.
Question 3: Consider vs 23. What happens when followers of Jesus live in oneness with God and with one another? What if onlookers can’t find a unified expression of love on earth? How might this affect how they view God?
Question 4: Describe the way the Father loves Jesus. Reflect on the reality that God the Father loves his disciples “even as” the Father loves Jesus (see vs. 23). What comes to mind as you reflect on this?
Read: Ephesians 4:1-6
Paul urges his listeners to live a life that matches God’s call to unity. He understands that without humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearing love, unity cannot exist. So he calls people to make every effort to keep the habits of unity that exist in the Spirit of God. God is one, and we too are called to be one.
Question 1: Notice the repeated words in this passage. What do you think Paul was trying to communicate by repeating these words?
Question 2: Where have you noticed expressions of humility, gentleness, patience, or love most recently?
Question 3: Think about a time when you were experiencing brokenness in a relationship. If you could travel back to that time, with this passage in mind, what would you do differently? What can you do today to build or rebuild a bond of peace?
Read and Discuss
Video Question
How does the meaning of the word koinonia help you better understand Paul’s letter to Philemon?
READ Philemon 1
In the letter to Philemon, Paul inserts himself into the middle of the conflict between Philemon and Onesimus. Paul modeled the good news, believing that it held the power to unite against incredible odds.
READ Colossians 3:1-14
In this passage, Paul is describing the characteristics of a life that’s fitting to all followers of Jesus and a life that is not. Jesus followers are called to throw out the greedy, lustful, angry markings of the old life and instead adopt the loving, patient, and humble traits of Jesus’ new resurrected life. The old way of life separates people from God and from one another. The new way of life in Jesus unites people to God and to one another.
Video Question
How does the meaning of the word koinonia help you better understand Paul’s letter to Philemon?
READ Philemon 1
In the letter to Philemon, Paul inserts himself into the middle of the conflict between Philemon and Onesimus. Paul modeled the good news, believing that it held the power to unite against incredible odds.
- How is Paul’s example like Jesus?
- Name a conflicting situation or relationship that feels difficult to unite. What is one way you can humbly step into the middle of this conflict to promote love, equality, and healing mercy?
READ Colossians 3:1-14
In this passage, Paul is describing the characteristics of a life that’s fitting to all followers of Jesus and a life that is not. Jesus followers are called to throw out the greedy, lustful, angry markings of the old life and instead adopt the loving, patient, and humble traits of Jesus’ new resurrected life. The old way of life separates people from God and from one another. The new way of life in Jesus unites people to God and to one another.
- Consider how you have recently interacted with the political, racial, and socio-economic dynamics of your culture. In your interactions, what old instincts are especially difficult for you and/or others to overcome (see verses 5-9)? What relationships might have been avoided or damaged? What is one step you can take towards repair?
- Read verses 10-11 again. In the new creation family of Jesus, all identities are made equal and unified into one redeemed identity. What might the list in verse 11 sound like if Paul rewrote it for your culture and time?
- Consider the qualities of your new identity in Jesus: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love (vs 12-14). Reflect on how Jesus inserted himself into humanity’s conflict while perfectly expressing these qualities. Pray for God’s help to do the same while living from these qualities this week. Pray the same for your family, church, and city.
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Shalom
For this week’s Church at Home, we’re exploring the Hebrew word shalom. This word means “peace” and carries with it the idea of wholeness and completion. As we consider the painful realities of our broken and incomplete world, we can recognize our great need for shalom. The use of this word in the Bible gives us a vision that we can hold on to when the world around us is deeply fragmented. Let’s reflect on this word and reconsider its importance in our modern lives. |
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Read and Discuss
Question 1: Video Question
Shalom, or peace, is not only the absence of conflict but also the presence of connection and completion. Who and what do we need in order to experience connection and a sense of completion?
Read: Luke 8:40-48
In this passage, we see how a woman found shalom in the midst of a chaotic crowd. As soon as she touched Jesus, she was made physically whole. Jesus recognized her faith in him and said, “go in peace,” or in other words, “continue to live in this whole and healed state.” In this story, the woman needed physical restoration and wholeness. But wholeness, or lack of wholeness, can affect other parts of our being as well. Where there is fragmentation in any part of our being, there is a wound of some kind, and it is a place where we need shalom to be restored.
Question 1: Where do you need shalom to be restored in your body, mind, or spirit? Consider how Jesus responded to the woman in need. Reach out to him in prayer. Ask for his shalom to meet you where you are.
Question 2: Consider your community for a moment. Where does shalom need to be restored? Jot down a list of your answers as a petition to God, and then circle one thing on the list. Prayerfully consider what practical steps you or your community can take to bring connection and completion to that one fragmented place.
Read: Ephesians 2:11-18
In Ephesians, Paul is addressing the division between two different communities of people, namely Jews and Gentiles. His point is that through Jesus, these groups have been brought together into one family. The hostility that once made it impossible for these groups to get along was put to death on the cross. In Jesus’ family, we have access to peace with God and with one another. Take time to meditate on this fact.
Read verses 11-13 again.
Question 1: What is it like to be far away from God? Jesus provided a way to bring us close to God. Consider your personal story. How did Jesus bring you to God? What is it like to have peace with him?
Question 2: We often use the figure of speech “a wall between us” to describe interpersonal conflict. Consider one relationship in your life that needs peace. Read verses 14 and 15 again, and then take a moment to imagine Jesus taking down the wall between you. What does the scene look like after Jesus destroys the wall of hostility?
Question 1: Video Question
Shalom, or peace, is not only the absence of conflict but also the presence of connection and completion. Who and what do we need in order to experience connection and a sense of completion?
Read: Luke 8:40-48
In this passage, we see how a woman found shalom in the midst of a chaotic crowd. As soon as she touched Jesus, she was made physically whole. Jesus recognized her faith in him and said, “go in peace,” or in other words, “continue to live in this whole and healed state.” In this story, the woman needed physical restoration and wholeness. But wholeness, or lack of wholeness, can affect other parts of our being as well. Where there is fragmentation in any part of our being, there is a wound of some kind, and it is a place where we need shalom to be restored.
Question 1: Where do you need shalom to be restored in your body, mind, or spirit? Consider how Jesus responded to the woman in need. Reach out to him in prayer. Ask for his shalom to meet you where you are.
Question 2: Consider your community for a moment. Where does shalom need to be restored? Jot down a list of your answers as a petition to God, and then circle one thing on the list. Prayerfully consider what practical steps you or your community can take to bring connection and completion to that one fragmented place.
Read: Ephesians 2:11-18
In Ephesians, Paul is addressing the division between two different communities of people, namely Jews and Gentiles. His point is that through Jesus, these groups have been brought together into one family. The hostility that once made it impossible for these groups to get along was put to death on the cross. In Jesus’ family, we have access to peace with God and with one another. Take time to meditate on this fact.
Read verses 11-13 again.
Question 1: What is it like to be far away from God? Jesus provided a way to bring us close to God. Consider your personal story. How did Jesus bring you to God? What is it like to have peace with him?
Question 2: We often use the figure of speech “a wall between us” to describe interpersonal conflict. Consider one relationship in your life that needs peace. Read verses 14 and 15 again, and then take a moment to imagine Jesus taking down the wall between you. What does the scene look like after Jesus destroys the wall of hostility?
Character of God Exodus 34:6-7 - by Dr. Tim Mackie
In this week’s Church at Home Bible study, we’re looking at the character of God as revealed to Moses in Exodus.
In this week’s Church at Home Bible study, we’re looking at the character of God as revealed to Moses in Exodus.
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In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at the character of God as revealed to Moses in Exodus chapter 34. We see in this passage that though God is first and foremost a loving and merciful God, he will not ignore injustice or evil. We see in the story of the Bible that God is willing to put up with a lot of human failures.
But our choices matter, and God will maintain a balance between mercy and justice, which at times means handing us over to the consequences of our decisions. As followers of Jesus, we may be wondering what God is going to do in the world in response to this time of deep unrest and upheaval. But the better question may be to ask ourselves, what are we going to do to carry out God’s will in the world? |
READ EXODUS 33:1-34:9
In this story the Israelites have just violated their covenant with God by making the golden calf idol. God is angry and ready to walk away from his commitment to Israel, but Moses pleads with God to fulfill his ancient promises to Abraham and forgive the people’s sins. This is the context of Moses’ request to see God’s face, so he can know God’s character in intimate detail. And God reveals his mercy but also his commitment to justice in response to human evil. This story, and the words in Exodus 34:6-7, explore the tension between God’s mercy and judgment. This is the dilemma that drives the biblical story forward. How is God going to bring about his plan to renew creation if he’s committed to doing it through flawed and faithless humans?
Question 1: Read Exodus 34:6-7. What do you think it would be like to live in a world that had compassion but no consequences for wrongdoing?
Question 2: What do you think it would it be like to live in a world that had consequences for wrongdoing but no compassion?
Question 3: Why is it good to have both mercy and justice?
In this story the Israelites have just violated their covenant with God by making the golden calf idol. God is angry and ready to walk away from his commitment to Israel, but Moses pleads with God to fulfill his ancient promises to Abraham and forgive the people’s sins. This is the context of Moses’ request to see God’s face, so he can know God’s character in intimate detail. And God reveals his mercy but also his commitment to justice in response to human evil. This story, and the words in Exodus 34:6-7, explore the tension between God’s mercy and judgment. This is the dilemma that drives the biblical story forward. How is God going to bring about his plan to renew creation if he’s committed to doing it through flawed and faithless humans?
Question 1: Read Exodus 34:6-7. What do you think it would be like to live in a world that had compassion but no consequences for wrongdoing?
Question 2: What do you think it would it be like to live in a world that had consequences for wrongdoing but no compassion?
Question 3: Why is it good to have both mercy and justice?
READ 2 CORINTHIANS 3:7-18
After Moses encountered God’s glory, he came down from Mount Sinai with a glowing face. We’re told that his transformation freaked the Israelites out, so he wore a veil to conceal himself. As we continue the story of the Bible, we learn that the new covenant comes with even greater glory because of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. This greater glory liberates Jesus’ followers to see and reflect his glowing character from the inside out, no veil needed. By his Spirit our hearts learn to mirror the mercy and justice we were created to image. His presence and character transforms us into new creatures who are empowered to represent and live out his new creation plan.
Question 1: Read 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. What stands out to you in this passage?
Question 2: In what ways has God shown you his mercy? What would it look like for you to mirror the mercy that God has shown you?
Question 3: In what ways does God stand up for justice? What would it look like for you to stand up for justice this week?
After Moses encountered God’s glory, he came down from Mount Sinai with a glowing face. We’re told that his transformation freaked the Israelites out, so he wore a veil to conceal himself. As we continue the story of the Bible, we learn that the new covenant comes with even greater glory because of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. This greater glory liberates Jesus’ followers to see and reflect his glowing character from the inside out, no veil needed. By his Spirit our hearts learn to mirror the mercy and justice we were created to image. His presence and character transforms us into new creatures who are empowered to represent and live out his new creation plan.
Question 1: Read 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. What stands out to you in this passage?
Question 2: In what ways has God shown you his mercy? What would it look like for you to mirror the mercy that God has shown you?
Question 3: In what ways does God stand up for justice? What would it look like for you to stand up for justice this week?
Heaven and Earth - by Jon Collins
Most of us have trouble thinking about the concept of heaven the way the Bible actually describes it. In this week’s Church at Home Bible Study, we’re looking at the phrase "heaven and earth."
Most of us have trouble thinking about the concept of heaven the way the Bible actually describes it. In this week’s Church at Home Bible Study, we’re looking at the phrase "heaven and earth."
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In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at the phrase “heaven and earth.” Most of us have trouble thinking about the concept of heaven the way the Bible actually describes it. We tend to imagine it as a beautiful place where we go after we die, but it’s so much more than that. Heaven and earth—God’s space and humans’ space—were originally united as one. When humanity chose to go their own way, those two spaces were driven apart.
But Jesus made a way for the two spaces to be one again. Right now we can experience the overlap between heaven and earth, but one day soon we will see the two spaces fully reunited again. As we wait, we are invited by Jesus to live out this prayer, “Father let your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” In this week’s study, we’ll explore and practice the hope of this reality together. |
How did this video explanation expand your view of heaven?
READ MATTHEW 19:28-30
The new heavens and earth is not some strange world we can’t begin to understand. When Jesus talks about the new creation, he mentions things we are familiar with like family, homes, and places of work (fields). But things will also be different than the world we know now. The future earth will be so permeated with God’s own life and love that death will be no more and power structures will be turned upside-down. What happened to Jesus on Easter morning is what God has in store for the whole universe. Everything will be renewed.
Question 1: Consider one scenario in your life that is hurting and broken. What do you think that situation will look like when it is fully renewed?
Question 2: Jesus’ sacrifice created a clean space where heaven and earth continue to overlap. Consider again that scenario in your life that needs renewal. How can you imitate Jesus in that situation? What can you sacrifice that would allow others to see a little pocket of heaven on earth?
Question 3: Who usually gets to enjoy the first, best, and most powerful scenarios on earth? Who usually has to endure the last, worst, and most vulnerable situations on earth? Read Matthew 19:30 again. What will it be like when Jesus renews all things?
The new heavens and earth is not some strange world we can’t begin to understand. When Jesus talks about the new creation, he mentions things we are familiar with like family, homes, and places of work (fields). But things will also be different than the world we know now. The future earth will be so permeated with God’s own life and love that death will be no more and power structures will be turned upside-down. What happened to Jesus on Easter morning is what God has in store for the whole universe. Everything will be renewed.
Question 1: Consider one scenario in your life that is hurting and broken. What do you think that situation will look like when it is fully renewed?
Question 2: Jesus’ sacrifice created a clean space where heaven and earth continue to overlap. Consider again that scenario in your life that needs renewal. How can you imitate Jesus in that situation? What can you sacrifice that would allow others to see a little pocket of heaven on earth?
Question 3: Who usually gets to enjoy the first, best, and most powerful scenarios on earth? Who usually has to endure the last, worst, and most vulnerable situations on earth? Read Matthew 19:30 again. What will it be like when Jesus renews all things?
READ ROMANS 8:18-22
While we wait for the new creation, we have to deal with evil, death, and chaos. But when Paul reflects on the future hope of the world, he says the earth will be “liberated from its bondage to decay.” Paul says that creation is groaning like a woman in childbirth. The new creation is taking form, being knit together in our midst, even when we can’t see it. But we see hints of it. Every now and then we see movement on the surface, and one day soon it will be pushed forth into fullness of life.
Question 1: Consider the childbirth metaphor in verse 22. How is the world as we know it like a woman in labor? How is the new heavens and earth like a newborn?
Question 2: Jesus taught us to pray, “Father, your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.” Take some time now to ask God to turn our hearts, homes, neighborhoods, and cities into pockets of heaven on earth.
While we wait for the new creation, we have to deal with evil, death, and chaos. But when Paul reflects on the future hope of the world, he says the earth will be “liberated from its bondage to decay.” Paul says that creation is groaning like a woman in childbirth. The new creation is taking form, being knit together in our midst, even when we can’t see it. But we see hints of it. Every now and then we see movement on the surface, and one day soon it will be pushed forth into fullness of life.
Question 1: Consider the childbirth metaphor in verse 22. How is the world as we know it like a woman in labor? How is the new heavens and earth like a newborn?
Question 2: Jesus taught us to pray, “Father, your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.” Take some time now to ask God to turn our hearts, homes, neighborhoods, and cities into pockets of heaven on earth.
Shema - by Dr. Carissa Quinn
In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at the Hebrew word "shema," which means to listen.
In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at the Hebrew word "shema," which means to listen.
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In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at the Hebrew word “shema,” which means to listen. But it’s more than that. Shema is an urgent call to not only hear Yahweh with our ears but to also respond to him with our whole lives. In the pages of the Bible, we see how Yahweh is the one who hears and responds to the cries of the oppressed.
As we take time to truly listen to him, we observe his empathy and justice towards the afflicted, changing how we think, feel, and act. In light of current events, what does it look like to let God’s response to the voices of the Black community become our own? |
Question 1: What stood out to you about what the word “listen” means in the Hebrew Bible?
Question 2: How is this different from or similar to how you usually use
Question 2: How is this different from or similar to how you usually use
READ DEUTERONOMY 6:1-9
The Shema is one of the most important prayers in the Bible. The Shema became something that Jewish people prayed every morning and evening for thousands of years, and it is still relevant to us today. It gets at the heart of all the commands given to the people of Israel. The Shema is a call to listen and respond to the truth that Yahweh is the one true God, and the appropriate response is to love Yahweh with all of our being. Knowing and loving God is how we can experience the fullness of life. And when we align our hearts with God’s, we will naturally care about the things he cares about and fulfill our roles as his partners in bringing about human flourishing on the earth.
Question 1: How would you describe Yahweh’s character? What do you believe Yahweh cares about? Take a moment now to admire him for who he is and all he loves.
Question 2: It’s easy to forget about who Yahweh is and what he cares about as we go about daily life. Read Deuteronomy 6:7-9 again. What are some ways you can remind yourself of who Yahweh is on a daily basis?
Question 3: How do you think Yahweh feels about current events? How do our Black brothers and sisters feel about current events? How can you listen to their stories this week?
The Shema is one of the most important prayers in the Bible. The Shema became something that Jewish people prayed every morning and evening for thousands of years, and it is still relevant to us today. It gets at the heart of all the commands given to the people of Israel. The Shema is a call to listen and respond to the truth that Yahweh is the one true God, and the appropriate response is to love Yahweh with all of our being. Knowing and loving God is how we can experience the fullness of life. And when we align our hearts with God’s, we will naturally care about the things he cares about and fulfill our roles as his partners in bringing about human flourishing on the earth.
Question 1: How would you describe Yahweh’s character? What do you believe Yahweh cares about? Take a moment now to admire him for who he is and all he loves.
Question 2: It’s easy to forget about who Yahweh is and what he cares about as we go about daily life. Read Deuteronomy 6:7-9 again. What are some ways you can remind yourself of who Yahweh is on a daily basis?
Question 3: How do you think Yahweh feels about current events? How do our Black brothers and sisters feel about current events? How can you listen to their stories this week?
READ JAMES 1:19-27
One of the most famous passages in the book of James is about being not just a hearer of the word but a doer. The author compares these “hearers” to those who see themselves in the mirror and then immediately forget what they look like. The point is that hearing and doing cannot be separated. We don’t truly see the mirror if we forget the image in it, and we don’t truly listen if the message doesn’t change us. We were made to reflect the image of God, but we forget who we were made to be when we do not let God's character shape our thought patterns, attitudes, affections, and actions. We are not truly listening to God's life-changing words if our lives are not changed.
Question 1: What stood out to you as you read this passage?
Question 2: According to this passage, what does a pure reflection of God’s character look like? What gets in the way of that pure reflection?
Question 3: Where in your life have you heard what God said but forgot to put it into action? Ask him for help and commit to practice what you learn this week.
One of the most famous passages in the book of James is about being not just a hearer of the word but a doer. The author compares these “hearers” to those who see themselves in the mirror and then immediately forget what they look like. The point is that hearing and doing cannot be separated. We don’t truly see the mirror if we forget the image in it, and we don’t truly listen if the message doesn’t change us. We were made to reflect the image of God, but we forget who we were made to be when we do not let God's character shape our thought patterns, attitudes, affections, and actions. We are not truly listening to God's life-changing words if our lives are not changed.
Question 1: What stood out to you as you read this passage?
Question 2: According to this passage, what does a pure reflection of God’s character look like? What gets in the way of that pure reflection?
Question 3: Where in your life have you heard what God said but forgot to put it into action? Ask him for help and commit to practice what you learn this week.
Love - by Dr. Tim Mackie
In this week’s Church at Home, we are looking at the Hebrew word for “love” in the Old Testament, ahavah.
In this week’s Church at Home, we are looking at the Hebrew word for “love” in the Old Testament, ahavah.
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In this week’s Church at Home, we are looking at the Hebrew word for “love” in the Old Testament, ahavah. What we learn from the story of the Bible is that Yahweh not only feels love for all the world, he also acts from love. We are told that when Yahweh rescued the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, it was because he loved them. He felt love, and he showed his love by rescuing them from oppression. After Israel was restored, they were called to show that same kind of active love to those who were socially disadvantaged in their midst. God’s love is a gift to share.
Most of us feel overwhelmed by the immense pain and suffering in our world today. It’s easy to see how much there is to remedy and conclude that our actions won’t make a meaningful difference. But God’s love equips us to face these important issues in practical ways that make an impact. Let’s consider this together as we reflect on the meaning of ahavah. Listen |
The video talked about Yahweh’s love being both a feeling and an action. How do you feel when you think about the fact that God feels love toward you? Name a few specific ways God has acted out his love for you.
READ DEUTERONOMY 4:32-40
Here Moses asks the Israelites what other deity has done something like what Yahweh did for Israel. Yahweh rescued them out of slavery in Egypt and then gave them his own divine wisdom and justice in the laws of the Torah. Why did he do it? The passage makes it clear that it is because Yahweh loved Israel’s ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Question 1: No other power can rescue like Yahweh, but we can sometimes forget this. We can then try to remedy painful feelings or hard situations apart from Yahweh. Do you find yourself doing this? What are some practical ways you can commit to rely on Yahweh instead?
Question 2: God loves us because it’s central to who he is. But we can struggle to really believe this. Why do you think that is? What would it look like to receive and respond to his love instead? Take a moment to remember that God loves you and the people around you. Pray for new strength to receive and respond to his love.
Here Moses asks the Israelites what other deity has done something like what Yahweh did for Israel. Yahweh rescued them out of slavery in Egypt and then gave them his own divine wisdom and justice in the laws of the Torah. Why did he do it? The passage makes it clear that it is because Yahweh loved Israel’s ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Question 1: No other power can rescue like Yahweh, but we can sometimes forget this. We can then try to remedy painful feelings or hard situations apart from Yahweh. Do you find yourself doing this? What are some practical ways you can commit to rely on Yahweh instead?
Question 2: God loves us because it’s central to who he is. But we can struggle to really believe this. Why do you think that is? What would it look like to receive and respond to his love instead? Take a moment to remember that God loves you and the people around you. Pray for new strength to receive and respond to his love.
READ DEUTERONOMY 10:12-22
Moses agrees that Israel exists because of Yahweh’s love for Israel’s ancestors. But this time he concludes that because Israel’s rescue from Egypt was an act of Yahweh’s love, the most consistent way to return love for Yahweh would be to turn one’s affection to the orphans, widows, and immigrants in the community. Do you see the mirror effect? Yahweh’s love is Exodus-shaped in Deuteronomy. In other words, it is an active love expressed toward the oppressed and hurting. So Israel’s love for God and neighbor is also meant to reflect that same pattern.
Question 1: Orphans, widows, and immigrants have a couple things in common. They are loved by God but are usually unloved by their neighbors. Do you know someone specific in your community who might be overlooked or unloved by those around them? Take a moment to think about how much God loves them. What is a practical way you can step outside of your comfort zone to reflect God’s love to them this week?
Moses agrees that Israel exists because of Yahweh’s love for Israel’s ancestors. But this time he concludes that because Israel’s rescue from Egypt was an act of Yahweh’s love, the most consistent way to return love for Yahweh would be to turn one’s affection to the orphans, widows, and immigrants in the community. Do you see the mirror effect? Yahweh’s love is Exodus-shaped in Deuteronomy. In other words, it is an active love expressed toward the oppressed and hurting. So Israel’s love for God and neighbor is also meant to reflect that same pattern.
Question 1: Orphans, widows, and immigrants have a couple things in common. They are loved by God but are usually unloved by their neighbors. Do you know someone specific in your community who might be overlooked or unloved by those around them? Take a moment to think about how much God loves them. What is a practical way you can step outside of your comfort zone to reflect God’s love to them this week?