Hydesville Church Life Groups

The Spending Crisis

2012-02-01T14:20:00.000-08:00

Deuteronomy 28

1. On the posts of facebook, a popular website lists the number one hit song on the day you were born. It’s fun to take a walk down history lane and hear what songs were popular at that time. What was a popular song that you remember from your high school days?

2. History is a good teacher. Experience is a hard teacher. With experience it is said that the exam comes first, and then the lesson. How much more painless and practical it is to study the lesson first, and then take the exam! But we, as human beings, are prone to forget those valuable history lessons, even in our own lives. Read Psalm 105:1-5. What are several things we are instructed to do in this Psalm? What specifically are we told to do in verse 5?

3. Read I Corinthians 11:23-26. In observing the Lord’s Supper, what significance does the act of remembering hold?

4. God wants us to remember Him in all things. Read Deuteronomy 28:1-14. What is the essence of this section? What does God want us to do, and what are the consequences of these actions?

5. Much of the blessing described in Deuteronomy describes prosperity. We are at a unique point in American history, although many draw parallels between what we are experiencing economically today with people’s experience during the Great Depression. Do you know anyone (or are you someone) that lived during this era in our country? Who?

6. From a website there is an article entitled, “4 Personal Finance Principles That Would Make Your Grandfather Proud.” Part of the article reads: “Our grandfather’s generation wasn’t perfect. They had their own set of flaws and weaknesses. But they got a lot of things right. And one of those things is how to handle your finances. Grandpa learned his financial lessons from the school of hard knocks. He lived through the Great Depression, which taught him to live leanly, to save, and to be grateful for what he had. And he lived in a time where staying out of debt was a matter of independence, pride, and self-reliance, something he believed reflected on a man’s most precious resource–his character.”

7. Biblical principles work whether a person recognizes they are from the Bible or not. Truth is truth. Some lessons (not all) from the Great Depression were certainly founded on Biblical truth. What verses or sections of Scripture can you point to for the following financial principles:

• Living “leanly”

• Being grateful for what we have

• the importance of character

• a healthy work ethic

• saving

8. Deuteronomy 18:15-68 is a great contrast to the first part of the chapter. This entails the curses of disobedience. Read II Peter 3:9. What is the desire of God’s heart?

9. Read Hebrews 12:4-11. What is the intention of God’s discipline in our lives?

10. Can you think of a time in your life in which you, in retrospect, were financially undisciplined? Share one word to describe the consequence of that time.

11. Now, can you share a time in which you consciously made a disciplined financial decision and use one word to describe the benefit that came to you.

12. How big is the circle that benefits when you make wise financial decisions?

Declaration of Dependence

2012-01-25T13:40:00.000-08:00

II Chronicles 6

I have virtually no sense of direction. I’m not sure what causes that or if that can ever be changed. I compensate for this weakness by making sure I have detailed maps, have purchased a GPS that works intermittently, and I often have the benefit of the shotgun to point me in the right direction. When I leave a store in the mall I often have to REALLY consider which way I was going before I entered the store, so as to not backtrack. I have hopped in the wrong parked cars thinking they were mine and I have been terribly lost in so many geographic locations. The rushing freeways in major metropolitan cities are the worst. Make a wrong turn, and let me tell you from experience, you may be lost a LONG TIME.

1. How is your sense of direction? Do you have a funny story about getting lost or about someone close to you that has this same malfunction that my brain exhibits?

The term ‘repentance’ means to turn – and specifically in the New Testament it means to turn from sin. When life is easy and rosy, the thought of turning from sin might seem hard to comprehend. We may even argue about what constitutes sin and what does that have to do with me, etc. etc. But when tragedy strikes, we know exactly what sin is because we tend to run straight to God and start asking forgiveness for all the things we know down deep in our hearts are wrong. Then we begin to plead with God to help us with our problems. Funny, how clearly we understand what sin is, when we are in trouble.

2. Consider points in our National history when we, as a nation, knew we were in trouble. How did the country respond? Consider the beginning of World War II and 911 for discussion starters.

3. Read II Chronicles 6. At this point in history, Solomon was a wise leader. He did the ultimate wise act as a person in authority and that is to humbly acknowledge God as the supreme ruler of the universe. What words did Solomon use to describe God’s authority?

4. In II Chronicles 6:22-31 what reasons does Solomon give for the bad things that happened to the nation of Israel? Solomon pleads with God to do something. For what does he plead?

5. Say II Chronicles 6:36-39 briefly, in your own words. What is the essence of what Solomon is saying?

6. Read II Chronicles 7:14-15. Who are God’s people?

7. What is humble about the act of praying?

8. Can you think of an example in the Bible of someone praying who was not being humble? What did Jesus think?

9. What does God promise for those who humble themselves, pray and repent from their wrongdoing?

10. How can this group pray for you today?

The Credibility Factor

2012-01-20T09:34:00.001-08:00

1. This time of year is all about diets and exercise. The extra pounds accumulated over the holidays causes many of us to get to the point of surrender when it comes to becoming disciplined about taking care of our bodies. Many crazy diet fads have gained popularity over the years. Do you occasionally “diet”? And, what is the most ‘wakadoodle’ diet that you have ever decided to embark upon? Did it work?

2. Read Nehemiah 1:1-4. When Nehemiah heard about his people, the Jews, and Jerusalem, Nehemiah not only “dieted,” he fasted. What else did Nehemiah do? What was the news he heard and what was his reaction?

3. Read Nehemiah 1:5-11 carefully. Describe Nehemiah’s prayer. What does this prayer tell of God’s character? How did Nehemiah represent his own people? What does this prayer tell us about Nehemiah’s character?

4. As Nehemiah led the efforts to rebuild the wall around the city of Jerusalem, the workers were met with great opposition by their enemies. Read Nehemiah 4:1-3:7-8:10-12. What kinds of fears did the enemies of the Jews incite?

5. What wise leadership strategies did Nehemiah bring about in Nehemiah 4:14-23? After reading Nehemiah 5:6-19, why do you think the people listened to Nehemiah?

6. In Nehemiah 5:15 what reason did Nehemiah give for not acting like the former governors?

7. Think of someone for whom you have a high degree of respect. What qualities does that person have that causes you to hold them in high regard?

8. Think of a field in which you are knowledgeable. Perhaps it is the kind of work you do, perhaps it is your role in your family, or perhaps it is an area of study or a hobby. What gives you credibility in this given subject? What kinds of actions on your part could hurt your credibility in this area?

9. Now, contrast your answers in question number 8 with the idea of moral authority. What kinds of actions could hurt the moral authority you have in an area, and what could be the consequences?

10. The governors that preceded Nehemiah acted in an expected way. Nehemiah chose to act differently and because he did, he gained the credibility - the moral authority needed to become a great leader and help the Jewish people out of a terrible dilemma. What did you learn from Nehemiah that can help you to raise the bar in the area of credibility?

Spiritual Star Wars

2012-01-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

Were you ever a Star Wars fan? Do you have a favorite character and why?

1. The whole Star Wars popularity was built on science fiction fantasy. However, there is a real war going on in the heavenlies over our souls. There is a battle of good versus evil that rages.

Read Romans 7:17-18. How would you describe our “sinful nature or what some translations call ‘the flesh’”?

2. Read Jeremiah 17:9-10. Is it shocking to hear point blank how the Bible describes the deceitfulness of the human heart? The NLT version says in verse 10 “But I know! I the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives. This alludes to the idea that as human we often have hidden agendas, and sometimes they are even hidden to ourselves! What, do you think, would help a person bring to the surface all the motives hidden in one’s heart? Put another way, what could help us from being self-deceived?

3. One of the ways in which we humans deceive ourselves is in the area of pride. In the workbook, Seeking Him, the authors give some contrasts to proud people and humble people. This list is for personal reflection in quiet time between you and the Lord. Here are a few statements for self-evaluation:

Proud People:
Focus on the failures of others

Have a critical fault-finding spirit; look at everyone else’s faults with a microscope but their own faults with a telescope

Have an independent self-sufficient spirit

Are self-protective of their time, their rights, and their reputation

Desire to make a name for themselves

Keep others at arms’ length

Are quick to blame others

Want to be sure that no one finds out when they have sinned; their instinct is to cover up

Have a hard time saying, “I was wrong; will you forgive me?”

Are concerned about the consequences of their sin

However, Humble People:

Are overwhelmed with a sense of their own spiritual need

Are compassionate; can forgive much because they know how much they have been forgiven

Have a dependent spirit; recognize their need for others

Are self-denying

Are motivated to be faithful and make others a success

Are willing to risk getting close to others and to take risks of loving intimately

Accept personal responsibility and can see where they are wrong in a situation

Once broken, don’t care who knows or who finds out; are willing to be exposed because they have nothing to lose
Are quick to admit failure and seek forgiveness when necessary.

Are grieved over the cause, the root of their sin
____________________________________________

Did the Lord speak to your heart as you carefully went over these statements? Can you share with the group something that you learned as a result of going through these statements?

8. Read I John 1:9 together as a group. Discuss why this gives the Christian great hope.

The Speck

2012-01-06T07:31:00.001-08:00

Matthew 7:1-5
Sermon: Recovery Road part 1

1. Have your ever seen the T.V. show “Judge Judy?” What do you think of her quick decisive judgments?

2. Read Matthew 7:1-5. In this Scripture passage and in the sermon series, Recovery Road, we are going to be learning about attitude – which is our own personal responsibility. Specifically, we are going to talk about our propensity to judge others before we judge ourselves. Why do you think, as human beings, we are prone to do this?

3. How does Matthew 23:12 and I Corinthians 11:31 give us direction in this area?

4. Our culture would tell us that self-exaltation and self-gratification are o.k. and we should build ourselves up. There is a lot of emphasis on “self-esteem.” But the Bible speaks very differently on these subjects. Read Luke 6:41-42. What is Jesus directing us to do?

5. Commentator Matthew Henry shares the insight that while we are not to judge, some in the body of Christ are to “reprove,” which is somewhat different. A good contemporary word would be to “admonish”. Answers.com defines “admonish” as to reprove gently but earnestly or to counsel (another) against something to be avoided; caution. What, in your opinion is the difference between “judging” and “admonishing?”

6. According to Jeremiah 17:9-10 and Mark 7:20-23, what is the true condition of the human heart?

7. What does Luke 9:23-24 say in regards to the way Christians are to deal with ourselves?

8. Human nature is such that there is a constant temptation to self-centeredness. The outgrowth of a self-centered mindset will result in thoughts, words and actions that re hurtful to one’s own walk with the Lord, and then to others around us including one’s church family, friends, church family and other believers.

According to Proverbs 28:13, what are we to do to guard against self-centeredness and the inclination to judge others unfairly?

9. This is a personal question for reflection and self-examination this week. Think through a recent situation in which you were upset. In the quietness of your heart read II Corinthians 5:9; Colossians 1:10; Colossians 3:2 and 3:17 and then determine whether you were seeking to please God or please yourself in this situation?

10. Another question for your own quiet devotion time: Human beings tend to judge the sins of others on a scale. There are sins as big as “logs” and sins that seem as insignificant and minor as “specks.” Yet, when a speck is in our own eye, it is incredibly painful! All of our sins – no matter what size we think they are stand between us and a Holy God. That is why we need a Savior – to forgive us of our sins. As a personal exercise, list the things for which God has forgiven you recently. Include thoughts, words and actions. Look up I John 1:9 and write the words of this verse over your list.

How does looking through the filter of forgiveness change the way we view the shortcomings, faults and outright sins of others?

The Games People Play

2011-12-29T19:09:00.000-08:00

Sermon for New Years – It All Starts by Stopping - Hosea 6

1. What isyour all time favorite game? Why do youthink you like it so much?

2. A song popular in the 70’s was called ‘The GamesPeople Play.’ One of the lines went: “Ohthe games people play now, every night and every day now, never meaning whatthey say, now, never saying what they mean.” What do you think the lyric writer meant? Contrast this meaning of “games” with thekind of “games” mentioned in question number 1.

3. Read Hosea 6. Starting in verse 4, God was addressing the nation of Israel and theirtendency to “play games” with Him. Whatare some common “games” people play with God?

4. At the heart of the issue was a sense ofloyalty. God stayed completely loyal toHis people and continually tried to draw them to Himself. Sometimes He did this by giving times ofblessing. Other times when they strayedHe would discipline them in order to bring them to their senses and cause themto return to Him. Compare God’srelationship to the people of Israel with His relationship to you. When do you purposely seek God more – inseasons of blessing or times of trouble?

5. How has God used trouble in your life to drawyou to Himself for restoration and spiritual healing?

6. What does it mean to ‘just get by’ in yourrelationship to the Lord? Describe whatbare minimum Christianity looks like in your own words.

7. Read Psalm 62:7-8. Human beings tend to have mixed motives in one’srelationship to God. The purity ofwanting to please the Lord out of a sense of gratefulness for His sacrificetends to get tainted by our own human desires. Stop and think back to a time when your heart was in the best place thatyou can remember. What was it that precededthat time of love and commitment to the Lord? What did you read in these verses that helps you in your relationshipwith the Lord right now?

8. Read ISamuel 7:3-6. The prophet Samuel wasaddressing the nation of Israel and instructing them what to do if they werereally serious about returning to the Lord. He talked about giving up things that had become more important to Godthan God Himself, obeying the Lord, praying, fasting and confessing their sins. For group discussion, consider howengaging in some of these “spiritual disciplines” is quite different than asimple “New Year’s Resolution.” In the quietness of your heart determine inwhat area God is speaking to you and what your response will be at this time.

9. How would you describe someone whom you respect(without naming names) that is totally devoted and loyal to God? What commitment would it take on your part tobecome more like that person?

2011-12-15T13:39:00.001-08:00

"and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6b

2011-12-15T13:36:00.001-08:00

Feeling Thankful. http://ping.fm/2TjKX

Warts and All

2011-12-14T15:57:00.000-08:00

Joseph and Judah

Sermon: Surprised by Grace

1. What is the first word you can think of when you hear the phrase “soap opera?”

2. No soap opera in the world can compare with the real life drama of the Bible. The Bible shows human beings in the full gamut – “the good, the bad, the ugly” – “warts and all”. Yet, God loves us. Although you may have heard the verse John 3:16 a million times, turn to it now and read each world slowly and consider the ramifications of this truth. When did you first realize that God loved you, “warts and all.”

3. Meet the family. Read Genesis 35:22b-26. How would you describe this family and from this description alone, point out what kinds of problems you could foresee?

4. Read Genesis 29:9-30. Jacob, the father of both Joseph and Judah was very partial to both his wife Rachel (over his wife Leah) and to his son born of Rachel, Joseph (over his ten older brothers). Obviously the family dynamics of having more than one wife has serious and bad consequences. But putting that aside, how did Jacob’s obvious partiality impact his family?

5. Read James 2:1-9. How does God view favoritism?

6. If you had the opportunity to sit down with Jacob when you saw him acting with obvious partiality, what would you tell him?

7. Read Genesis 37:3-8. Do you think Joseph knew how his brothers felt about him? If you were an uncle or aunt of family friend listening in on this scene, what would you say to Joseph?

8. The story of Judah and Tamar is in Genesis 38, and you heard it Sunday in the sermon. By the end of the chapter we don’t like Judah much. Yet, by the time Judah acknowledges his grievous sinful lifestyle (in Genesis 44:16) and begs Joseph to let Benjamin free and volunteers himself to be a slave in Benjamin’s place, we start to see his humanness. What is it about a broken and repentant person that softens our hearts towards that person?

9. Read Genesis 50:15-21 about the account of Joseph’s forgiveness toward his brothers. How is Joseph’s forgiveness a picture of God’s grace toward us?

Making Messes

2011-12-09T12:14:00.001-08:00

Sermon: Genealogy of Grace

1. Do you have siblings or are you an only child? If you have siblings, how many – and where are you in the “line up?” Do you like your placement in “the birth order” in your family? Would you trade if you had the opportunity?

2. As a child, what is the biggest “mess” you ever made and had to clean up?

3. Read Genesis 12:1-3. We are introduced to Abram and we read that God calls him and then gives Abram some specific instructions. After that God makes Abram some fantastic promises! What does God tell Abram to do?

4. What does God promise Abram?

5. Read Genesis 21:1-7. What did the Lord do?

6. As we heard in Sunday’s sermon, Abraham was very human. He made some big mistakes and more than that he did some things that were downright sinful. What does Romans 3:10-12 say about all human beings?

7. Yet, God was faithful to His promise to Abraham. Read Genesis 15:5-6. What was Abram’s response to God’s promise to him?

8. Faith is more than intellectual belief. It is defined as more of a complete trust. In believing in the One in whom we have faith, we act upon that trust. Our lives are different because of that faith. How important is our faith to God?

9. Read Ephesians 2:8-9. By what are we saved? And what is our response to be?

10. Read I John 1:9. Whom does our forgiveness depend upon? According to this verse, what is our part of the equation?

11. Read Acts 3:25-26. We continue to be blessed today by God’s goodness because of the promises He made to Abraham. These promises were not because of anything Abraham did, or any other human being’s goodness, but soley because of God’s grace. Grace is undeserved favor. Can you share some ways in which God’s grace (undeserved blessings and undeserved pardon) has been given to you?

Ohhs and Ahhs

2011-11-23T11:43:00.001-08:00

Read Psalm 107

When I was a young married adult, I brought my husband to my parent’s home for Thanksgiving dinner. The home in which I grew up was stable and we had traditions we could count on, such as a big roasted turkey brought out at the table, uncarved, so we could all ohh and aww at the good-looking bird. Then my dad would do the honor of carving the turkey right at the table. With six children in the family – four which were boys – mom always purchased a large turkey, until this year. On this year, mom decided to try one of the “flaked and formed” turkeys which were popular, and they came inside an unattractive netting which looked even worse after cooking. Instead of the golden roasted brown plump roasted turkey, the flaked and formed turkey came apart in pieces, which looked kind of gray, as I recall. My mother neglected to inform my father of the change, and you should have seen his face when that turkey was presented at the family Thanksgiving table. We still laugh about the look on his face.

1. What is your funniest Thanksgiving memory?

There was a secular article in the newspaper that elaborated on the benefits of being thankful. The real gain, the article concluded, was not so much to the people who were thanked, but to the person who expressed the thankfulness. Yes, having a thankful attitude makes all the difference in the world in a person’s outlook and state of being. Psalm 107 will teach us not only to be thankful, but lets us know concretely that the object of our appreciation – the One to whom we are thankful has an impact on our lives beyond description.

2. Psalm 107:1 tells us to give thanks to whom, and what does this verse say about the character of God?

3. Of what does verse 2 remind us to be thankful? Have you been redeemed? Do you know that your sins have been forgiven, and do you have a personal relationship with God because of Jesus?

4. Verse two is significant because we often tend to list our material blessings first. We have relational blessings as well – our family, our church, our friends. But what kind of spiritual blessings have you received this year? Take time to list five spiritual blessings for which to thank the Lord. For example, “during the Easter program, I was reminded of how much Jesus went through for me.” Or, “this year I am less of an angry person because of the work God has done in my life.” What are your five? You may want to take a ten-minute break and think this through.

5. Re-read verses 4-9. Can you share a time when you were lost or homeless or hungry or thirsty? Did you call out to the Lord for help, and how did He answer that prayer?

6. Re-read verses 10-16. What has imprisoned you? Have you been in an actual jail or prison or has there been a habit, mindset, attitude or addiction that has imprisoned you for a
time? How did God deliver you? For what can you give Him praise?

7. Re-read verses 17-22. When have you been the most sick or what health issues do you currently battle? Or perhaps one of your loved ones has been ill. How did/does the Lord minister to you in a health crisis?

8. Re-read verses 23-38. Do you have a story of difficult travels or of surviving through a natural disaster such as a flood, and earthquake or a hurricane? What is your story and in what way did you see the hand of the Lord over that situation?

9. Re-read verses 39-43. Have you had financial or family troubles? How did going through these times shape and/or change you? What did you learn? Can you now give God praise for something you learned through these difficult times?

10. Now, think again of your many blessings. Let’s encourage each other to be a people who are thankful for our material, relational and spiritual blessings. What has this sermon, or this study brought to light, and how can you be more thankful for having learned these things?

The Happiest Day of Your Life

2011-11-18T13:36:00.001-08:00

Read Psalm 100

What was the happiest day of your life?

While in the country of Israel, our Jewish guide, Sholomo(Hebrew for Solomon), explained to usthat in the Jewish wedding ceremony, the groom steps on a wine glass andsmashes it with his right foot. Thereason this is done at this time is to remember, that on the happiest day ofyour life – to remember the mourning the Jewish person has in their heart forthe destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. The point is that there is a tradition carriedout for the purpose of remembering. Astudy of the Bible reveals that we, as human beings, tend to forget – even themost important things.

1. ReadDeuteronomy 8:1-5. What were the children of Israel to rememberand for what purpose?

2. Read Deuteronomy 8:6-18. What cautions are we given and what does thispassage reveal about human nature? Whatdoes this passage reveal about the character of God?

3. Re-read Psalm 100. Why do we need to remember to do thesethings?

4. What does it feel like when you are “taken forgranted”? How do you think God feelswhen we take Him for granted?

5. What causes you to sing with Joy to theLord?

6. What is the correlation between a thankful heartand joy?

7. In whattangible ways do you acknowledge that the Lord is God in your life? How does acting in obedience to God’s Wordacknowledge that the Lord is God? Whatdoes disobedience (knowing the right thing to do, yet consistently ignore the Holy Spirit’s nudges)acknowledge?

8. What does it mean to you to read in this Psalmthat “He made us, and we are His?”

9. We are exhorted here, not only to be thankfulbut to enter His courts with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Commentator Matthew Henry tells us, “In allacts of religious worship, whether in secret or in our families, we come intoGod’s presence, and serve Him; but it isin public worship especially, that we enter into His gates and into Hiscourts”. What is the difference, inyour opinion, in private worship, and worship together with other believers inchurch?

10. What does Psalm 100:5 proclaim about God? What are some ways that you can help remindyourself or remind each other in this group about God’s goodness andfaithfulness?

11. What are some ways to communicate God’s goodnessand faithfulness to the next generation?

Choosing

2011-11-09T15:09:00.000-08:00

Read Psalm 34:15-22.

1. What kind of shopper are you?

a. I try to not step foot in stores and if shopping is to be done I try to delegate that task to another in the family or perhaps shop online.

b. I only shop for tools or sporting goods.

c. I “conquer” when shopping. I find what I need quickly and get out of the store.

d. I do some shopping but it is really not ‘my thing.’

e. I enjoy shopping and trying to find the best buys.

f. Coupons, it’s definitely about coupons.

g. I like to shop until I drop. I believe in ‘retail therapy.’

2. When shopping, we make many choices. How do you make decisions when shopping? What kinds of things do you think about?

3. Read Psalm 1. Note how many choices the writer has explained in this Psalm. What are those choices?

4. What are the results of the choices made in Psalm 1 – for the “righteous”, and for the “wicked”?

5. According to Romans 3:10, who is righteous?

6. Read Romans 5:19 and Ephesians 2:8,9. Knowing that we all, at times, do this that are wrong and hurt the heart of God, how can we, as believers in Christ, be considered “righteous?”

7. Read Romans 1:17. By what does the righteous live?

8. What does Psalm 34:15 and 17 tell us about God’s character? What is promised, and to whom is the promise made?

9. Carefully read Psalm 34:18. What is this promise? In this context what does it mean that the “Lord is near?

10. The New Living Translation tells us that the Lord “rescues” those who are crushed in spirit. Have you experienced what it means to be “crushed in spirit” and have had the Lord “rescue” you? Can you share about this time and how your faith was impacted as a result?

11. What do these promises regarding the Lord helping the righteous pertain to your life? How does an increased understanding of God’s help and deliverance make a difference in your life?

12. If someone who is going through a difficult time this week shared their troubles with you, what would you draw from this study that would help them and give them hope? If this person was not a Christian, would you be able to share how to have a saving relationship with Christ? What words would you use? What Bible verses would you offer?

Got Compassion?

2011-11-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

To Accompany Message: Compassion For the Poor

Read Mark 14:7

1. In a couple of weeks we will celebrate Thanksgiving. Would you share your favorite memory or tradition connected with this holiday?

2. In a scene from a classic movie set in the thirties, some children from a poor family are given a gift by a charitable organization. The little girl opens the gift to find a doll. At first she is delighted until she lifts it from the box and finds that it’s face is broken, and she begins to cry. Can you share a memory from your most meager Christmas?

3. If there was a time when there was financial hardship in your life, how was your compassion for the poor increased by that experience?

4. We’re going to have you skipping all over the Bible. Please read Matthew 6:2-4. Why do you think the Lord instructed us to give in this way? From God’s perspective, as long as the poor are taken care of do you think the motivation of the giver matters? Why or why not?

5. Read Matthew 19:16-21. Jesus said to this young man, “if you want to be complete…” and then instructed him to sell his possessions and give to the poor. What quality in this young man’s heart was Jesus trying to correct? What was at the heart of His instruction to this young man? Read verse 22. What was this young man lacking?

6. In Mark 10:21 the Bible tells us that Jesus felt a love for the young man who was trying to please God by following the ten commandments, yet held back when it came to his possessions. What was the “one thing the young man lacked?”

7. Please read Luke 16:19-31. What, in a general sense, is the correlation between our money and our faith. In what financial state is it, humanly speaking, easier to trust in God? What affect does money tend to have our faith and why? What serious implication about belief is communicated in verse 31? To whom is this verse alluding?

8. Read Luke 21:1-4. Explain in your own words the kind of faith this widow possessed. What did Jesus want us to learn from this example?

Hungry?

2011-10-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Read Psalm 34 in its entirety. Then, if possible, read this Psalm in a different version.

1. Verse 8 tells us to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” Playing off of this idea on taste, describe your absolute most favorite dinner (we don’t have to consider calories on this one)?

2. Now, before you go get a snack, after you have considered the thought of good food, consider what Jesus meant by spiritual food. Read Matthew 4:1-4. Explain what Jesus is talking about when He says, “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (NLT).

3. There is much spiritual food in Psalm 34. Our lives would be filled to overflowing if we could take it all in. Examine verses 1-4. In what practical ways would our lives be transformed if we could determine to “praise the Lord at all times” and “constantly speak His praises.” How does an attitude of praise impact the rest of our lives?

4. Take a few moments to speak several “normal everyday type of things” for which you are truly grateful. Can you share why these particular things came to mind?

5. Consider verses 4-5. When is a time when you have been freed from all of your fears after praying to God? What was that like? How did this experience build your faith?

6. Read verses 6-7. Why do you think we pay much more attention to God when we are feeling desperate? This week take a few moments to jot down some times when you came to God in moments of desperation and how He met your need. Let’s keep this list in our Bibles to review at times when we know we should be feeling thankful, but our mind is taken up with our problems.

7. Write down the names of three people and make verse seven a prayer this week. Pray that these three will grow to, or grow in their “fear” (reverence) of God and that the angel of the Lord will guard, surround, and defend them. Who is on your heart this week?

8. Verses 9-10 encapsulates a magnificent promise. Discuss what we in affluent American consider “needs” and contrast those “needs” with what those in third world countries would consider “wants” or even “luxuries.” How does considering those who are less fortunate put our own lives into perspective? Have you thought of some new things for which to pause and thank God?

9. Discuss verses 12-14. What correlation do the Scriptures offer between living a long and prosperous life and controlling one’s tongue and working to maintain peace?

10. Commentator Matthew Henry tells us, “David’s prayers helped to silence his fears; many besides him have looked unto the Lord by faith and prayer and it has wonderfully revived and comforted them. When we look to the world, we are perplexed , and at a loss.”

And so this is the battlefield of the mind when it comes to thanksgiving. If we can but keep our minds turned toward God in faith and prayer and keep looking toward the Lord our spirits can be triumphant even during our troubles in life. What are some practical ways that you can share that have helped you to turn your mind towards the Lord, and to remember to pray when troubles come?

11. Re-read verses 18-19. Why do you think that God is especially close to the brokenhearted? What does this say about God? How does this give you hope?

Relaxed?

2011-10-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

Read Ephesians 6:10-20

We’re dealing with a topic of putting on the armor of God to fight our spiritual battles. This study coincides with the end of October which is increasingly a “hot topic” in Christian circles. In addition, there is a rising popularity and expanding commercialism with what some call “Halloween” and others would call a “Harvest Celebration.”

1. What is your custom on Halloween? Do you join in giving out candy or wear some silly costume? Do you shun our culture’s celebration and substitute a “Harvest Celebration” instead? Do you ignore it all together? This question is not to dictate a right or wrong way to deal with this awkward custom, but to voice that Christians have different ideas on how to approach this part of our culture while still trying to honor the Lord. Some do this by trying to be “light in the darkness” and being a good example in the middle of ‘trick or treating,’ while others, in good conscience, choose to not participate at all. Without being disagreeable, can you share what your family has chosen to do in this season, and perhaps some of the reasons that led you to this decision?

2. What is the funniest or silliest costume you have ever worn?

3. Were you alive in the 1940’s? Do you have any memories or memories that your parents or grandparents have passed down about World War II? What is your most vivid memory or story you have heard concerning the beginning of that war?

4. The United States was catapulted into the war with Japan at the bombing of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The Japanese caught the United States by surprise as a significant amount of our fleet sat in that harbor on December 7, 1941. Yet, historians say that although we were caught by surprise, there were indications that we would be attacked, yet we failed to recognize the seriousness of the situation.

In this section of Ephesians we are going to discuss spiritual warfare. In exploring what the Bible teaches about being prepared spiritually for battles against the enemy of our souls we are going to make some analogies to war to help us understand the seriousness of our spiritual situation.

What comes to mind when you think of “spiritual warfare?”

5. What does Ephesians 6:12 say we are fighting against? Please put this verse into your own words.

6. Ephesians 6:10 tells us to be strong in the Lord and His mighty power. The words “Be strong” in the Greek is translated “endunamoo, which means “to make strong, to endure with strength.” In addition the verb that is in the passive voice is expressed as, “be continually strengthened.” As we are not only told to be strong, but be strong in the Lord, means that this kind of strength can only be achieved in union with the Lord. This is not an admonition to self-effort but to depend on the Lord for the supply of this strength.

Read Philippians 4:13. Explain what this means in your life and an example of how the Lord has given you strength.

7. Read Hebrews 11:30-34. In the New American Standard translation the phrase “from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. What (verse 30) made these heroes of the faith spiritually strong? On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 signifying “barely existing” and 10 signifying “mighty),” how would you describe your faith in this season of life. Has your faith ever been stronger than it is right now?

8. Commentator Matthew Henry tells us, “Spiritual strength and courage are needed for our spiritual warfare and suffering…The combat is not against human enemies, not against our own corrupt nature only; we have to do with an enemy who has a thousand ways of beguiling unstable souls…we must resolve by God’s grace, not to yield to Satan. Resist him, and he will flee.”

What are some ways you have learned to “resist him.” What strategies of holding on to the Word of God and of prayer have given you some victory? If you believe that you are presently struggling spiritually, ask the group to stop now and pray for you for the strength to resist something that is troubling to you. It is o.k. to have an “unspoken” prayer, but ask for prayer just the same. God knows all the details.

9. Matthew Henry asserts, “we must pray with all kinds of prayer; public, private, and secret; social and solitary; solemn and sudden: with all the parts of prayer; confession of sin, petition for mercy, and thanksgiving for favours received. And we must do it by the grace of God the Holy Spirit, in dependence on, and according to his teaching. We must preserve in particular requests, notwithstanding discouragements. We must pray, not for ourselves only, but for all saints. Our enemies are mighty, and we are without strength, but our Redeemer is almighty, and in the power of His might we may overcome.”

Have an extended prayer time at this group gathering and personally this week. Remember all the parts of prayer. Share a special specific request this week and be sure to pray for one another.

Praying for Ourselves, Praying For Others

2011-10-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Sermon: The Inward Stroke: Requests

Praying for ourselves; praying for others

1. Read Matthew 6:1-15. We live in a very time-oriented culture which has an effect on the way we communicate. To fit more tasks into our already bulging schedules we tend to interact with one another in a business-like and abbreviated way. We have, in an effort to communicate more, embraced technologies which in turn would have us get our message across in ways that are more impersonal and succinct thus adding to our breakdown in communication. For all of the new ways we are in contact with one another, relationships, as a general statement, are not any better. We turn on the T.V. and talk less. We bypass the family dinner so that we can attend all the kids sports games. We forget to say, “good morning” to the co-worker and just launch into the business of the day. We text our friends and family with brief statements and symbols without the aid of facial expressions to convey the spirit of what is said. We may spend hours on facebook but not have two extra minutes to greet someone face to face. That is our culture. Americans have the reputation overseas of being rude because we tend not to greet a person’s presence or we fail to try to express something in their own language before we hurriedly ask for directions or help. And interestingly, we tend to come before the throne of God in prayer with some of these same habits.

Dear God. Would you please do this and would you do that and I need, I need, I need. Amen.

Can anyone relate?

If you consider Matthew 6:9-15 an outline of how to pray, how would you say that God wants us to communicate with Him?

2. How does the perspective of Matthew 6:9-15 contrast with our usual way of praying? In other words, as you look over this section of Scripture what do you think God wants us to be thinking about as we approach Him in prayer?

3. What does ‘the Lord’s Prayer,’ as we call this section of Scripture, tell us about God’s heart?

4. Clearly, personal prayer is the duty and practice of all who would consider themselves followers of Christ. God desires our interaction with Him and He “sees what is done in secret.” Commentator Matthew Henry tells us, “there is not a secret sudden breathing after God, but He observes it.” Do you have a favorite place where you go to God all alone to pray? Where is that place for you and why is that place helpful for you as you seek to focus on the Lord there?

5. Matthew Henry, who lived in the 1700’s, explains “Open your case, and pour out your hearts before Him, and then leave it with Him. The God we pray to is our Father. Children do not make long speeches to their parents when they want anything. They need not say many words, that are taught by the Spirit of adoption to say that one aright, Abba Father.” In other words, a child is secure in his or her relationship with their father and says without reservation, “Daddy, Daddy” when they are in need of something. Henry concludes, “He is a Father that knows our case and knows our wants better than we do ourselves. He knows what things we have need of”. In the “Lord’s Prayer” we are instructed to ask for our “daily bread” (our daily needs). In a affluent culture, such as ours, we often time, think of many other things when we think of our “needs.” What are some of the needs for which you most often pray? How would you contrast those needs to people in third world countries? Does this give you an added perspective on what we consider “needs?”

6. Read Mark 11:12-14; 20-26. The Lord talks much of the issue of forgiveness and how our forgiving of others transgressions against us has a correlation to the way in which God forgives our daily sins. In this section of Mark, Jesus ties the promises of power in our praying to our faith and the condition of forgiveness for others in our hearts.

Why do you think that God’s relationship to us is tied to the way we interact with others?

7. Author and Pastor Ronald Dunn gives us these words of admonition if we have seemingly unanswered prayer: “If I don’t forgive, I can’t pray; if I can’t pray, I can’t express my faith; if I can’t exercise my faith, the mountain will not move. Got any mountains you can’t move? You’ve prayed, you’ve believed, you’ve fasted, you’ve rebuked the devil – you’ve done everything, yet nothing changes. Perhaps you, too, need to look under the rock of your heart and see if there is a worm of unforgiveness hiding there. Ah, there’s the culprit.”
Why, as human beings do we struggle so to forgive? What have you learned about the way that God has forgiven you to help you to remember how you must forgive others?

Getting Drenched - Colossians 4:12

2011-10-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

Sermon: The Inward Stroke: Requests - October 9, 2011

1. Have you participated in gymnastics in any form? Did you do summersaults or cartwheels as a child? Did you play on the rings in the playground or perhaps did you participate in gymnastics in a more organized fashion? Perhaps you have simply watched Olympic gymnastics and were particularly impressed with a particular gymnast or type of competition. What is your most vivid memory when you think of gymnastics?

2. The kind of prayer spoken about in this verse will be likened to work, to labor and to put forth the kind of effort that one would in a wrestling match or a gymnastics competition. When you think of these “high sweat activities” how would you gauge your “prayer sweat-o-meter” these days?

A. Cool as a cucumber.
B. Barely perspiring.
C. In a crisis I’m drenched, otherwise I stay pretty cool.
D. I have a mild prayer workout and get mildly warm every morning.
E. Whew! I’m working hard and I’m drenched.

3. Pastor Mike told us that “intercession is my response to the love of God for all people, especially those in His family.” Intercessory prayer is that intimate conversation with God that centers around the needs of others. One of the keys to unlocking the door to a deeper prayer life is getting beyond the surface needs with prayers that go something like, “please bless Matilda and bless Henry and please make my aunt’s second cousin’s toe to feel better, and oh yes, please bless my kitty and turtle and my dog because I think he has a cold. Amen.” Have you ever been at a church service or prayer meeting and the prayer of one of those well- meaning individuals made you want to laugh? Did you?

4. Those well meaning prayers are heard by God to be sure, for He looks on the heart. And the simple prayer of a child can hold more spiritual weight than a pontificating adult! A more powerful prayer life is not about being articulate, or sounding eloquent but it is about getting deeper. How do we REALLY pray for those we care about? What can we learn from this verse in Ephesians and someone named Epaphras and the way he prayed?

Read Colossians 4:12. What impresses you about Epaphras? How do you feel about someone who sincerely wrestles for you in prayer everyday? Are you “an Epaphras” for someone else? What have you learned about praying fervently for someone else? How did that prayer change you?

5. Commentator Kenneth Wuest tells us that the term “laboring fervently” (in regards to prayer) is in the Greek, agonizomai, which means “to contend in the gymnastic games, to content with adversaries…figuratively, to contend, struggle with difficulties and dangers antagonistic to the gospel.” Have you ever thought of prayer as work? If so, why is it work?

6. It’s accurate to say that Epaphras had a deep concern for this church that he had helped to establish. If you are a parent, or have known someone for a very long time, or you have helped to get something of spiritual value started, how much greater is your level of concern?

7. Open your Bible to Colossians 1:9-12. Study this section this week and use it as a prayer guide to wrestle in prayer for someone or some ministry for which you care deeply. Where is says “you” insert that person’s name or ministries name. For whom or for what are you going to pray this week?

2011-09-14T12:16:00.001-07:00

"You were made by God and for God - and until you understand that, life will never make sense." R. Warren

Colossians 2:1-5 The Frog and the Ducks

2010-06-18T13:54:00.000-07:00

Colossians 2:1-5

1. What is your favorite frog story? Consider this one:
The story is told of two ducks and a frog who lived happily together in a farm pond. The best of friends, the three would amuse themselves and play together in their waterhole. When the hot summer days came, however, the pond began to dry up, and soon it was evident they would have to move. This was no problem for the ducks, who could easily fly to another pond. But the frog was stuck. So it was decided that they would put a stick in the bill of each duck that the frog could hang onto with his mouth as they flew to another pond. The plan worked well--so well, in fact, that as they were flying along a farmer looked up in admiration and mused, "Well, isn't that a clever idea! I wonder who thought of it?" The frog said, "I did..."[1]

2. Read Colossians 2:1-5. The Apostle Paul obviously has some deep concerns for the church at Colosse. Paul did not found this church and had not met most of its people. Yet he felt an ardent connection, responsibility and exhibited a shepherd’s protective heart in his feelings for the Colossian Christians. Upon the first reading of this passage what may have been the nature of his concerns?

3. According to this section of Scripture, where is true wisdom and knowledge found?

4. What is the nature of Paul’s concerns in verse 4?

5. Paul was concerned because the church at Colosse faced a serious theological threat[2] in the form of a heresy. Webster’s 1913 Dictionary gives this definition of heresy: Religious opinion opposed to the authorized doctrinal standards of any particular church, especially when tending to promote schism or separation;…”[3]

The form of heresy facing the Colossian church came in the form of Gnosticism which claimed a exclusive knowledge and special spiritual experience. People caught up in this heresy were proud of how much they thought they knew, looking upon themselves as spiritually elite. The point was to make other believers feel inferior in their faith. According to I Corinthians 8:1 what is the outcome of knowledge simply for knowledge’s sake?

6. Why is spiritual pride so dangerous?

7. Read II Corinthians 12:1-10. The Apostle Paul was given a special spiritual experience from the Lord. According to verse 7, what else did the Lord give Paul and why?

8. Author F. F. Bruce tells us, “Paul learned to accept this physical affliction, whatever its precise nature, as a prophylactic against the spiritual pride that was prone to beset those who had made the heavenly ascent. If ever he was tempted to rely on the “abundance of revelations” received then, the thorn in the flesh would remind him to rely on the Lord alone, apart from whose grace he would be useless.”[4] Why was it important that Paul stay humble? What might have happened if Paul fell into spiritual pride? What would the impact of that pride have on his personal ministry relationships? His shepherding of the churches? The growth of Christianity?

9. Another quote by F.F. Bruce tells us of the dangers of spiritual pride today. “Some people today, as then, love to make a parade of exceptional piety. They claim to have found the way to a higher plane of spiritual experience, as though they had been initiated into sacred mysteries which given them an almost infinite advantage over the uninitiated. Others are all too prone to be impressed by such people. But Paul warns them against being misled by such lofty claims. Those who make them, for all their lofty pretensions, for all their boasting of the special insight which they have received into divine reality, are simply inflated by unspiritual pride and are out of touch with Him who is the true Head and Fount of life and knowledge.” Explain in your own words what you think could happen if influential individuals who are out of touch with the heart of Christ were allowed to gain control in a church?Does your answer give you insight to the concerns of Paul?

10. Pastor David pointed out in Sunday’s message that the false teachings were poisoning the early church at Colosse. What in his message and in this study give you insight into the concerns of Paul for the Colossian church and the concern that pastors, leaders and shepherds have for the believers entrusted to their care?

11. Read II Timothy 3:16-17. Since warnings against heresy and false teachers are clearly spoken about in Scripture, what is the application today? Why do you feel it is important to study and understand the Bible? Why is it important to gather with other believers in a church setting and study the Bible together? What impact does humbly seeking God’s truth through His Word have on your relationships? Your role in the body of Christ? The growth of Christianity in this community?

[1] Today in the Word, April, 1989, p. 34.
[2] Melick, Richard R. Jr. The New American Commentary – Philippians, Colossians, Philemon 170;
[3] http://www.webster-dictionary.org/definition/heresy
[4] Bruce, F. F. Bibliotheca Sacra – July-September 1984

Ministry and Suffering - Colossians 1:24-29

2010-06-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Questions:
1. Are you more talkative or quiet? What is your most comfortable form of communication? Face-to-face private conversations, back and forth conversation in a small group of people, “having the microphone,” talking on the telephone, e-mail, texting, facebook or something else?

2. Read Colossians 1:24-29. When confronted by the risen Christ, Paul absolutely and completely embraced the Lordship of Jesus. “His thinking about Christ is vast, majestic, overpowering, dynamic.”[1] “Paul’s sense of mission and center of thought were transformed utterly by his encounter with the Christ of the Christian proclamation. The persecutor-preacher of Jewish persuasion became the persecuted preacher of Christ.”[2]

What do you think of when you hear the word “preacher?” What dynamics in our culture have created an image of someone who is a “preacher?” Do you think being persecuted and preaching go together? Why or why not? Is there any Scripture you can point to that would validate your answer?

3. Read Acts 9:1-16. From the beginning of his conversion and ministry Paul understood that unique suffering would be a part of his life.[3] How might this knowledge have strengthened Paul?

4. When Paul was converted, instead of a self-righteous murder, he became a lover of people who willingly suffered, most likely to the point of martyrdom, to bring many to a saving knowledge and eternal redemption in Christ.[4] Paul, the former angry enforcer of legalism became a dynamic apostle of grace reaching out to people of all backgrounds with no prejudice, becoming “all things to all men” in order to have the privilege of sharing God’s plan of salvation to many.”[5]

Paul was not only willing to suffer but rejoiced in his sufferings for the Colossian church (Colossians 1:24)[6]. Why do you think he could rejoice in suffering?

5. Paul had a special mission of inclusion for the Gentile believers. Paul planted churches in Gentile, pagan territory.[7] How might this have made Paul a target for persecution?

6. Paul mightily exercised the powerful communication tool of the spoken word. We find two diverse viewpoints on the power of Paul’s verbal abilities. One fact is certain - Paul talked ‘all the time’. While for some people this attribute might be considered a weakness, perhaps even an annoyance - for Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, it was a magnificent strength. Paul did not consider himself eloquent, yet he seemed to take every opportunity to speak to, implore, reason with and persuade individuals, as well as crowds, concerning His Lord Jesus Christ and His power to give everyone who confessed their sins and expressed belief in His deity, eternal salvation.[8]

According to Colossians 1:28 what was Paul’s motivation?

7. Read I Corinthians 2:4-5. Paul’s preaching provoked his listeners to action. “The normal response to the preaching is that listeners are called to decision; they either believe or refuse to believe.”[9] Paul’s self-perceived lack of eloquence was not a weakness and actually a positive factor in his spiritual life for he rightly understood that the gospel’s power did not come from a polished delivery, but from the Spirit’s supernatural power.[10]

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being terrible and 10 being fantastic, how do you think Paul would rate himself as a speaker? Do you like to speak publicly?

8. Read Exodus 4:10-12. Jill Briscoe tells us, “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that all God’s heroes were very ordinary people. The thing that made the difference was that they had a relationship with an extraordinary God living within them, and this is a privilege accorded to every one of us who recognizes our need to know God in a personal way.”[11]

In the case of Moses and Paul, why do you think God chose to use spokesmen that didn’t feel very positive about their speaking abilities to communicate God’s message?

9. Paul said, “I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church…” “Clearly Paul expected the willingness to work hard to be a normal characteristic of the Christian leader. Human hearts are the soil where the Christian leader sows the seed of the Word of God and where the fruits of his labors are produced. While never easy work, it is for the sake of the harvest that the Lord’s husbandman gladly engages in the demanding toil.”[12]

When we consider what Paul’s “share” was for the church, how might that understanding cast a light on what our “share” might be? After considering Sunday’s message and this study, how is your level of passion for the things of God, and in what area do you feel God stretching you?

[1] Shillington, George, Paul’s Success n the Conversion of Gentiles: Dynamic Center in Cultural Diversity [Direction 20 no 2, Fall 1991], 129. http://firstsearch.oclc.org/WebZ/DARead?key=0384-8515%2528199123%252920%253A2%253C125%253APSITCO%253E%26fsapp4-32843-g1mzcks3-fjchm4%26b881ef3d6cc2f594daa2cca2e94706f028641bf7faffad09586d57f6bf7cfeb5&sessionid=0&db=ATLA_FT&format=PDF
[2] Shillington, George, Paul’s Success n the Conversion of Gentiles: Dynamic Center in Cultural Diversity [Direction 20 no 2, Fall 1991], 126. http://firstsearch.oclc.org/WebZ/DARead?key=0384-8515%2528199123%252920%253A2%253C125%253APSITCO%253E%26fsapp4-32843-g1mzcks3-fjchm4%26b881ef3d6cc2f594daa2cca2e94706f028641bf7faffad09586d57f6bf7cfeb5&sessionid=0&db=ATLA_FT&format=PDF
[3] Melick, Richard R. Jr. The New American Commentary – Philippians, Colossians, Philemon [Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman Press 1991], 237.
[4] II Corinthians 11:29 (New American Standard)
[5] I Corinthians 9:22 (New American Standard)
[6] Colossians 1:24 (New American Standard)
[7] Melick, Richard R. Jr. The New American Commentary – Philippians, Colossians, Philemon [Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman Press 1991], 237.
[8] Romans 1:16 (New American Standard)
[9] Thompson, James W. Paul’s Preaching Ministry: Evangelistic and Pastoral Preaching in Acts [Restoration Quarterly], 22.
[10] I Corinthians 2:4-5 (New American Standard)
[11] Briscoe, Jill Here Am I Lord…Send Somebody Else! [Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 2004]. 4.
[12] Hiebert, Edmond D. Pauline Images of a Christian Leader. [Bibliotheca sacra 133 no 531, 1976], 220.

Brokenness - Psalm 51

2010-06-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Read Psalm 51

For those of us who enjoy cooking or eating Italian food, there is an important ingredient that adds incredible flavor and aroma, and also makes necessary the need for after dinner mints. It is garlic. Garlic has an analogy to our spiritual lives because an aspect of this aromatic seasoning requires it to be crushed to release the essential oils within. If we want garlic to be at its flavorful best, it must be crushed. The fiber and essence of the garlic clove needs to be broken to set free its special taste and aroma.

1. Do you like garlic? If so, what is your favorite garlic-laden food?

Likewise the Scriptures instruct us of the release and freedom in the spiritual realm that comes with brokenness. The Treasure of David Commentary tells us that “A heart crushed is a fragrant heart”.

Indeed David’s heart became crushed and broken after the prophet Nathan confronted him of his sin with David’s involvement with Bathsheba and his orders to place her husband in harm’s way, then attempting to cover it all up.

But as David recognized the deception in his heart and the depth of his offense against God and the people involved (the repercussions of which were far-reaching for David was a leader). David became broken. In Psalm 51 we not only get to be eyewitnesses to the state of his heart, we see a Biblical pattern for repentance and restoration. Though the choices he made and the choices we make when we are enticed to sin do great damage, God is absolutely ready and willing to restore broken hearts and bring good out of bad, even when the bad has been our own doing.

Some of our best life lessons are learned in seasons of brokenness. Brokenness isn’t always the result of wrong choices on our part. Sometimes we become broken by the sinful choices of others, and sometimes life’s circumstances cause a process of brokenness in our lives. We can choose by an act of our will to humble ourselves before God and become broken in attitude without encountering adversity, and that is the best choice of all.

2. What in your life has come into a proper perspective or an area in which you have more clarity because there has been a sense of brokenness in your life?

We usually consider something that has been broken to be in a state of disrepair headed for the landfill. In this information age of electronic gadgetry it is often more cost effective to buy a new appliance or tool than to have it repaired. Broken in this instance is not a good word. But Biblical brokenness is a state where we have come to the end of ourselves, and that, accompanied by a humble spirit is indeed is a good thing.

David surely sinned against some people directly and a larger group of people indirectly. But how did David sense that he had sinned? (verse 4).

Consider some of the “innocent” victims of David’s sin. They did nothing in the situation yet their lives were impacted. When someone dear to us is hurt we recognize our powerlessness and need of God. We are incapable of protecting all who are close to our hearts. Do you relate to this scenario and if so, what did you learn about trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty in the situation?

In verse one, how does David describe God’s character?

How has the graciousness, lovingkindness and compassion of God ministered to you in possible situations of:

feeling like everyone has let me down but God alone.

being powerless over my reputation when others have spoken ill of me.

feeling like my prayers are “hitting the ceiling”.

working hard to plan something good and having it turn out bad.

seeing my dream die.

experiencing a season of loss.

facing the reality of aging and changing health.

having to depend on the goodness of others, losing my sense of independence and self-
sufficiency.

ending up in a place I thought I would never be and in foreign circumstances with no
foreseeable light at the end of the tunnel.

behaving badly and not liking the part of me that is revealed.

What do verses 10-13 tell us about God? What is God willing and able to do with a “broken” life?

Did David believe that God would forgive and restore him? What was David’s confidence level in God and His love for him?

Was David able to receive God’s forgiveness and then forgive himself?

How about you? Can you completely receive God’s gift of forgiveness and believe that God wants to totally restore every area of your life?

http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/treasury-of-david/psalms-51-17.html
http://startcooking.com/blog/51/How-to-Slice--Mince-and-Crush-Garlic
Psalm 51 (New American Standard)

Psalm 19 - The Book of Hope

2010-05-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

Psalm 19 is a psalm that proclaims the sweetness of God’s Word even describing it as “sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.” (vs. 12).

In this Psalm of David’s we find his personal life story as relating to how much the Word of God has meant to his life. In church language it’s called a testimony. As we study this section of Scripture together, let’s put to words – both written and verbal how much the Lord, through the study of the Bible, has impacted our lives. Let’s share our own life stories – our testimonies of how our lives have been transformed by listening to God’s Word and applying it in practical concrete ways.

There are so many descriptions of what the Bible is, and for me the phrase that resonates in my life is that it is the “book of hope.” When considering my own struggles, issues and life problems (we all have them, don’t we?) it has been in my quiet communion with the Lord, reading His Word that has invariably brought me through. It is in seeing again and again that God loves me, has a plan for my life, has significant purpose in the things I go through and promises for me to act upon that renews my sense of hope. Artist that I am, I am prone by creative temperament to the ups and downs of intense emotions that can color my sense of optimism for the future. The Word of God has been a constant source of equilibrium in my life. My focus on my problems are lifted to a sense of relief that God has not forgotten me or has allowed something in my life that would be an agent of destruction with no way out. The precious things I have learned about God in these times have given me courage for the day and hope for all of my tomorrows, as many as the Lord chooses to give me on earth. Yes, I can concur with King David that in my life God’s Word is sweeter than honey, and if I may, sweeter than chocolate, peppermint, coconut, and all the other favorite flavors that define sweetness to me. The Bible is delicious to my soul. Yum.

What flavors define “sweetness” to you?

Bible Scholar Reverend Derek Kidner (1913-2008), makes the statement of Psalm 19 that “its theology is as powerful as its poetry.” The American Heritage Dictionary tells us that theology is “The study of the nature of God and religious truth; rational inquiry into religious questions.” After reading Psalm 19 what would you say God is like? What is His nature?

Read Psalm 19. Commentators Walvoord & Zuck give this description of this Psalm. “This Psalm…surveys both God’s natural revelation and His specific revelation, which prompts a response of self-examination”.

It is possible to read all kinds of literature but not be moved to personal change by having been exposed to it’s message. We have the capacity to process information in so many ways. For example, if we are studying for a test in school in a subject that has no personal significance to our lives we inadvertently store that information in our short-term memories. It goes in, it comes out, then it’s gone.

Why is it crucial in the life of someone who follows Christ to receive the Bible’s information differently than we would all other sources?

What is it about seeing God’s handiwork – nature – that compels you to give God praise? What does God’s creation tell you about God?

Verse 7 says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.” Can you share a time when the reading, studying or listening of God’s Word “restored your soul?” Is there a time when God’s Word made you wise and you recognized it wasn’t “human wisdom” but something that you learned from the Scriptures?

Psalm 19:11a says, “Moreover, by them Your servant is warned…” Can you point to a time in your life when God’s Word warned you about something? Did you listen? What were the consequences?

In Psalm 19:14 David says, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” What parallel is there between a heart that is “in the right place” and the ability to receive insight from God’s Word?

What blocks our receptivity to hearing what the Lord through the Bible would say to us?

Three points Pastor Mike gave us in his message this week were: God speaks to us in the skies, God speaks to us in the Scriptures, and God speaks to us in our soul.” Can you share how God has spoken to you in one or more of these ways?

The study and hearing of God’s Word should be like salt in our lives. Tasting a little should make us want more (like eating just one chip usually causes one to want the whole bag). What have you heard in this week’s message or in this study that makes you want more of God’s Word in your life?

American Heritage Dictionary, http://www.ask.com/web?q=dictionary%3A+theology&content=ahdict%7C39421&o=0&l=dir
Kidner, Derek, Psalme 1-72 – An Introduction Commentary 97
Psalm 19 (New American Standard)
Walvoord, John F. and Zuck, Roy B., The Bible Knowledge Commentary 807-808

The Supreme Reconciliation

2010-05-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Colossians 1:19-23
1. What is the most memorable “fight” you ever saw on T.V.? Prehaps it was in the days of the “Roller Derby,” or a famous boxing fight between major contenders or some “ultimate boxing.” What made that fight so memorable?

2. Read Colossians 1:19-23 in the version you normally read, and then read it again in The Message:

19 So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. 20 Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe - people and things, animals and atoms - get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the Cross. 21 You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. 22 But now, by giving himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God's side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. 23 You don't walk away from a gift like that! You stay grounded and steady in that bond of trust, constantly tuned in to the Message, careful not to be distracted or diverted. There is no other Message - just this one. Every creature under heaven gets this same Message. I, Paul, am a messenger of this Message.

Some people think boxing is the purest of sports - just one guy punching it out against another. Some abhor boxing and consider it barbaric. Whatever one’s opinion, boxing gives us a mental image of being at war with another person.

Describe an image or picture of what it is like to be at war with God.

2. Bible commentator Warren Wiersbe explains, “When the first man and woman sinned, they declared war on God; but God did not delcare war on them. Instead, God sought Adam and Eve; and He provided a covering for their sins.”

Have you ever been in a situation where someone was angry with you and you were innocent? What does your experience lend to your concept of “reconciliation”?

3. Bible scholar Richard R. Melick, Jr. tells us “First Corinthians describes Christ as the one who subdues hostile and opposing parties.”

Have you ever had to be a peacemaker? How does your experience add to the appreciation of what Christ did for us when He gave us peace with God? Describe the intervention that took place when Jesus bridged the gap between God and ourselves by taking responsibility for our sins.

4. Foundationally, reconciliation relates to the restoring of a broken relationship. What must happen in order for two estranged people to be reconciled?

5. In most instances there are two ingredients in a reconcilation. There needs to be a willingness on the part of both individuals to reconcile and there is typically an occasion to bring them together.

Were you ever reconciled to someone? What occasion brought you together?

6. Read Romans 5:6-11. Think back on the time you received Christ as your Savior, thus ending your “peronal war with God.” What was the occasion that brought you together with God? At what time was God willing to be reconciled to us? What did it cost God to be reconciled to us (verse 8)?

7. The One (Jesus) who died (and rose again) to reconcile us to God did all the work in making peace with God available to us. After considering the magnitude of such a sacrifice how does or how has this knowledge affect(ed) your life?

8. What has “Peace with God” meant in your own life, and how would you explain what you have experienced to someone who does not know Christ personally?

Colossians 1:19-23 (New American Standard); (The Message)
Melisck, Richard R. Jr., The New American Commentary - Philippians, Colossians, Philemon 224-228
Romans 5:6-11 (New American Standard)
Wiersbe, Warren The Bible Exposition Commentary 118-121

The Preeminent Christ

2010-05-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

1. What is your favorite worship song? Do you have a favorite hymn? What makes it your
favorite?

2. Read Colossians 1:15-20. Bible Scholars consider this section of Scripture a Hymn to Christ. This passage is a poetical description of the nature of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. As such, it reflects the worship of the early church.

Re-read this section of Scripture slowly. What words and phrases cause your heart to worship the Lord? Said in another way, if you wanted to “rave about God,” what words from this passage would you use?

3. According to the New American Commentary, “the criteria for determining the presence of hymns includes lyrical style and linguistic abnormalities.” There is a “certain rhythmical lilt” to the words. And, there are “distinctive theological expressions”. Thus, Hymns used in worship both express the love and honor in our hearts for God and articulate theology.

Name some reasons why it might be significant in the life of the Christian and life of the Church to use hymns as a part of our worship?

4. The Apostle Paul had some good reasons to use this opening Hymn to Christ at the beginning of this letter to the saints at Colosse. Whether Paul used or wrote this hymn, it certainly was a reflection of his theology. Or perhaps this hymn spoke specifically to the false teachers at Colosse.

Have the words of a song ever “spoken” to you and helped you to put into words something that you felt in your heart? How might the inclusion of this hymn counteract the false teachings of some who were seeking to steer the Colossian church into Gnosticism?

5. In the New Living Translation, Colossians 1:15 says, “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before God made anything at all and is supreme over all creation.”

Read Genesis 1:26. Who is the “us”? Read John 1:1-5. Who is “the Word?.” Why might false teachers and cults attack the concept of the Trinity?

6. If Jesus is not God, but a lesser being as some cults claim, how would the significance of Christ’s death on the cross be altered? Why is the true identity of Christ so important to our belief system?

7. “Christ is the One through whom God created everything in heaven and earth.” Colossians 1:16a NLT What does this say about Christ’s position? What does this say about Christ’s power and authority?

8. The second part of verse 16 in the NLT states, “He made the things we can see and things we can’t see - kings, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities. Everything has been created through Him and for Him.”

Warren Wiersbe states, “If everything in creation exists for Him, then nothing can be evil of itself (except for Satan and fallen angels, even those God uses to accomplish His will.) How does this section of the Bible counteract the Gnostic belief that all matter is evil?

9. Verse 17 in the NLT states, ”He existed before everything else began, and He holds all creation together.” How does the fact that Christ holds all creation together give you hope and confidence for the future?

10. How, in this section of Colossians did Paul do battle with the false teachers trying to infiltrate the church at Colosse? What principles can you glean to fight against wrong thinking in your life? How can you grow in the area of becoming more knowledgeable of God’s Word, using your God-given intellect and worshiping with more focus and intentionality?

11. This week, in your life, what steps will you take so that Christ might be more preeminent in your life?

Colossians 1:15-20 (New American Standard); (New Living Translation)
John 1:1-5 (New American Standard)
Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary 181-183
Genesis 1:26 (New American Standard)
Henry, Matthew Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible 1164
Melisck, Richard R. Jr., The New American Commentary - Philippians, Colossians, Philemon 210-221
Wiersbe, Warren The Bible Exposition Commentary 115-117

Isaiah 53 - Part 2 - Betrayal

2010-04-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

1. Have you been or are you currently a fan of “Survivor,” “The Biggest Loser,” or another competitive, so called “reality” TV shows? Why or why not?

2. In many of these shows, in order to keep up ratings and heighten drama, there is a process where a player is eliminated in each round. Often alliances are formed between players where they agree (behind the scenes) to not vote each other out. They establish some sort of trust based on mutual self-interests. Sometimes these agreements are broken, and on T.V. they refer to it as “game play.” In real life, when agreements are broken between individuals, friends, family, co-workers and others, it is often called something more serious - betrayal. Read Isaiah 53:3-9. Who was betrayed?

3. Read Matthew 26:1-16. What action seemed to upset Judas? (vs. 8-9).

4. Read John 12:1-6. What was a huge character weakness in Judas’ life? How did Satan manipulate that weakness to plant false thoughts in Judas’ mind about the identity of Jesus? What responsibility did Judas bear for deciding to receive and consider those warped thoughts? (Read Matthew 26:24-25). What does this say about the significance of our thought life and the ideas we entertain?

5. Read Psalm 41:9 and Psalm 55:12-14. The Psalmist talks about betrayal. The betrayal listed here is not from an enemy or causal acquaintance. The pain of this betrayal comes from a one time close and trusted friend. Why does betrayal from a close trusted relationship hurt more deeply than the attack from an enemy?

6. Read Matthew 26:20-25. In the NLT translation, verse 22 reads, “Greatly distressed, one by one they began to ask Him, “I’m not the one, am I Lord?” This reveals how Jesus treated the one whom would eventually betray Him. No doubt, Jesus knew all along that Judas would betray Him, yet Jesus treated him so much like the others that they had no idea. What example does Jesus provide for us in the way He treated Judas?

7. Commentator Frank E. Gaebelein points out some of Judas’ character issues and what might have prompted his horrifying actions. “Like most human motives, his were mixed and doubtless included avarice and jealousy combined with profound disappointment that Jesus was not acting like the Messiah he had expected.”

It is hard to imagine that someone who walked with Jesus, lived with Him, saw the miracles, heard not only the teaching to the multitudes and Christ‘s instructions as He “poured into His inner core” of believers, ended up betraying the most beautiful and only perfect person who ever lived, this completely God and completely human, “God in the flesh.” Yet, He did. What warnings does this give us about the capabilities of human nature?

8. Avarice is an intense greedieness - a self-serving desire for money, wealth, power or possessions. When someone is jealous they want what another person has and is angry that they cannot have that something. Answers.com defines disappointment as “a feeling of regret or dejection upon the frustrations of one's expectations.”

Where did avarice, jealousy and disappointment have a start in Judas’ life? Was it in things that happened to him, or was it his reaction to circumstances and his own decisions and mind processes under the control of his free will that sent Judas‘ life on a downward spiral?

9. How can someone who was so close to Christ have betrayed Him?

10. Read Galatians 5:22-26. Contrast these descriptions of the Spirit-filled life to that of Judas. The person who is filled with the Spirit spends a lot of time in Christ’s presence. Judas spent a lot of time in the presence of Christ. What constitutes the difference?

11. Authors Harold Myra and Marshall Shelley in their book The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham wrote: Perhaps you will never experience betrayal. Then again, it’s one of the more likely experiences ahead, a time when someone turns on you, opens you to shame and ridicule, or subverts your labors of love, your relationships and aspirations. How you respond when it happens can make the difference...”

What steps and decisions can you make to insure a healthy and Christ-honoring response when something like a betrayal comes in to your life? How does Christ’s example impact you? How can this group pray for you in this area?

Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary 258
Galatians 5:22-26 (New American Standard)
Isaiah 53 (New American Standard)
John 12:1-6 (New American Standard)
Matthew 26 (New American Standard)
Myra, Harold and Marshall, Shelley The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham 178
Psalm 41:9; 55:12-14 (New American Standard)
Wiersbe, Warren W. The Bible Exposition Commentary 95-96
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_disappointment&alreadyAsked=1&rtitle=What_a_disappointment_that_play_was

Isaiah 53

2010-04-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

April 11, 2010
1. American Idol, The Bachelor, and Dancing with the Stars have all been popular t.v. programs in recent years. What message do these shows send regarding society’s view of physical beauty?

2. Read Isaiah 53:2-3; I Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 31:30 and II Timothy 2:9-10. From reading these portions of Scripture, what value do you think that God places on physical beauty?

3. Read Isaiah 52:7; Romans 10:15, Psalm 27:4 and I Peter 3:3-4. What is beautiful to God?

4. Please read Isaiah 53 in it’s entirety. How did people respond to the appearance of Jesus the Messiah?

5. Isaiah 53:3 reads: “He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” Do you equate with any of these descriptions? Have you ever felt:
Despised?
Forsaken?
Sorrowful, acquainted with grief?
Not esteemed?

6. Hebrews 2:17 says “Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, His brothers and sisters, so that He could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since He Himself has gone through suffering and temptation, He is able to help us when we are being tempted.” (NLT)

How does it impact you to know that Jesus Christ suffered and willingly allowed people the choice to despise and forsake Him, esteeming Him not? Can you relate to this kind of love?

7. Truly the people in Jesus’ day struggled with the concept of a suffering Messiah, even though Isaiah 53 clearly indicates that this is how He would come. Why do you think this was true?
They could not relate to this kind of Messiah even though it was written. They did not want this kind of Messiah so they rejected the message. This passage did not fit with their theology so they dismissed it. Other.

8. Matthew Henry, Bible commentator who lived from 1662-1714 said, “The low condition He submitted to, and His appearance in the world, were not agreeable to the ideas the Jews had formed of the Messiah...He had nothing of the glory which one might have thought to meet with Him. His whole life was not only humble as to outward condition, but also sorrowful....Carnal hearts see nothing in the Lord Jesus to desire an interest in Him.”

Why can a Messiah that is humble and sorrowful be such a delight to those who have invited Him into their heart yet be regarded as irrelevant by the rest of the world?

9. Henry goes on to say, “It was for our sins, and in our stead, that our Lord Jesus suffered. We have all sinned, and have come short of the glory of God...Our sins deserve all griefs and sorrows...We are saved from the ruin, to which by sin we become liable, by laying our sins on Christ.”

Why would Jesus, who never committed a sin or did anything wrong, willingly take on Himself all our human wrongdoing - accepting the blame for our most henius acts and harmful motives turned into shocking and shameless actions? What kind of love is that? What kind of Messiah is that? What kind of God?

10. As you consider the significance of this suffering Messiah described in Isaiah 53, what response in your life do you think is appropriate? Is there a decision to be made, a commitment to take, or a change of life direction to embrace?

Henry, Matthew Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible 682-683
Hebrews 2:17 (New Living Translation)
Isaiah 53 (New American Standard)
I Peter 3:3-4 (New American Standard)
Proverbs 31:30 (New American Standard)
Psalm 27:4 (New American Standard)
Romans 10:15 (New American Standard)
I Samuel 16:7 (New American Standard)
II Timothy 2:9-10 (New American Standard)
Walvoord & Zuck The Bible Knowledge Commentary 1107

"3:16 The Numbers of Hope"

2010-04-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

John 3:1-16

1. Let’s take a trip down memory lane. This may go way back into childhood or something not realized until one’s adult years. When was the first time you realized you were “good” at doing something in particular? It might have been a sense of accomplishment you felt after completing something. It may have been because of the encouragement or praise from a parent, teacher or peer. What was that “thing” and how did that realization affect your life?

2. Read John 3:16. What was Nicodemus “good at” - what were his accomplishments?

3. Nicodemus was a Jewish leader and a Pharisee. He had a place and identity in life. When he was confronted with the evidence that Jesus was clearly sent from God, it meant he had to do some deep thinking and consider that perhaps his life choices, admirable though they might have been, might keep him from discovering the most important truth of all.

According to John 3:1, what kind of life choices had Nicodemus made? Why do you think the direction he chose to pursue in life might have caused him to miss the reality of who Christ was?

4. Theologians differ concerning the motivation of Nicodemus. Some say he was deeply sincere in seeking truth as he sought out Christ by night. It is thought he simply wanted an uninterrupted quiet conversation. Others argue that Nicodemus was afraid or ashamed to be seen with Christ. Like many, it is possible that Nicodemus had fear of identifying with Christ in the daylight - in front of others. Yet, he had enough faith to approach Him under the cover of darkness.

What would cause Nicodemus to fear in identifying with Christ? What were the consequences then? What are the consequences now in our culture? What are the consequences for identifying with Christ in other cultures around the world?

5. Surely Nicodemus was a good upstanding citizen of his culture. Being a Pharisee likely meant a life of dedication, faithfulness, service, knowledge, piety, focus, and devotion - all of which are good things.

Are there good things in your life that are keeping you from that which is most important?
What life choices - even those that may be “religious” or “ministry-minded” in nature have presented obstacles to your spiritual growth?

6. Nicodemus needed clarification. He was honest when he asked, “what do you mean?” Nicodemus saw something in Christ that made him want to be around Him to hear and understand. There was something extraordinary in the life of Jesus. Nicodemus had honest questions for Christ.

What honest questions do you have for Christ?

7. Jesus gently rebuked Nicodemus and “put him in his place.” There is some thing about the light, purity and clarity of Jesus Christ that makes our worldly accomplishments small in comparison.

What worldy accomplishments, when compared to knowing and following Christ, are small in comparision? Do any of these accomplishments get in the way?

8. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

It is the will of God the Father that all come to a saving knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ. Read Matthew 28:18-20. This is called the Great Commission. As believers we are commanded by Christ to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations...” What is your role? What is in your way?

Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 9 50
Henry, Matthew Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible 983
John 3:16 (New American Standard)
Matthew 28:18-20 (New American Standard)
Wiersbe, Warren The Bible Exposition Commentary 295

WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?

2010-03-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

Matthew 16:13-21

1. Have you, or do you know of someone, who has been the victim of identity theft?

2. Jesus and His disciples walked to Caesarea Philippi which is in Northern Israel. In contrast to parts of Southren Israel, Philippi has green areas, is on the southwestern slope of Mount Hermon and is a beautiful area with waterfalls. Caesarea Philippi was also at that time a place with diversified religious beliefs. There was a center for Baal worship, Shrines to the Greek god Pan, and a temple that was built to honor Augustus Caesar. It was a very pagan place. What contrasts would Jesus’ disciples have seen in the people in this environment versus what they personally witnessed in the person of Christ?

3. Read Matthew 16:13-21. It is interesting that when Jesus asked His disciples “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” that they were quick to name some prophets who had already died, or in the case of Elijah, had been whisked away to heaven in a chariot. Clearly this was a population that struggled with faith yet held out hope for a resurrection. Consider the words of Job 19:25-27. Who is Job’s redeemer? Read Hebrews 11:17-19. What did Abraham believe?

4. Read II Kings 2:1-14. Read Malachi 4:5-6. What do you think some people saw in Christ that made them think He might be Elijah? Why do you think that at this time they did not realize Jesus Christ was the Messiah?

5. Read John 10:19-21. Do you think the people were confused about Christ?

6. Re-read Matthew 16:15-17. How did Peter know that Jesus was “the Christ, the Son of the living God? How do you know who Jesus Christ is?

7. In Matthew 1:21 we read that Jesus was to be given this name for “He will save His people from their sins.” The word “Christ” (in the Greek Christos, in Hebrew, Mashmiah) means “the anointed one.” Read Luke 4:18-19. How would you explain this “job description” for the Messiah?

8. Which of these descriptions of Christ resonate with you?
Jesus is my Savior - He has saved me from the penalty of my sin and shame and even from “myself.” Jesus has saved me from my own human nature. I can’t imagine what kind of person I would be without Him.”
Jesus is my Redeemer. He has redeemed my life and brought about good out of bad.
Jesus Christ is my King - the One I worship and seek to give honor.
Jesus is pure love. He is the object of my unrestrained affection.
Jesus is my compassionate counselor. He is the One to whom before I weep unresevedely and receive comfort and peace for my soul.
Jesus is my healer and the One who has healed my broken heart.
Jesus is my model. When in confusing circumstances when I contemplate what action to take or attitude to embrace, I look to Christ for my example.
Jesus is my liberator. In Him I experience true freedom.
Jesus is my encourager. Even in a season of life when nothing seems to go right, He loves me, gives me purpose, guides me and encourages me.
Jesus is my hope. Because of His grace and forgiveness to me, someday I get to be with Him in heaven.

9. Jesus Christ has many other names in the Bible. Some of them are Lord, Shiloh, Immanuel, Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, The Branch and The Word of God.

Who do you say that Jesus is?

10. What name or description of Jesus makes you want to know Him better?

Barbour Publishing, Know Your Bible 26, 33
Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 8 367-370
Hebrews 11:17-19 (New American Standard)
Job 19:25-27 (New American Standard)
John 10:19-21 (New American Standard)
II Kings 2:1-14 (New American Standard)
Luke 4:18-19 (New American Standard)
Malachi 4:5-6 (New American Standard)
Matthew 1:21; 16:13-21 (New American Standard)
Unger, Merrill F. Concise Bible Dictionary 103
Wiersbe, Warren The Bible Exposition Commentary 57-58

Pleasure, Power, Prejudice (part I - Pleasure)

2010-03-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

1. What is your favorite “pig out” food?

2. Can you give an example of something that was initially good, but taken too far became bad?

3. Proverbs 21:17 in the New Living Translation says, “Those who love pleasure become poor; wine and luxury are not the way to riches.” Please put into your own words why the love of
pleasure ultimately causes one to become poor.

4. Author Leo Sandon Jr. writes, “Pleasure, broadly considered, is the gratifying of the desires of the senses or the mind...To engage in the idolatry of pleasure is to make pleasure the central aim - the crucial value - in human life. As in the case with all idolatries, it involves the inappropriate elevation of a good to the Good.”
According to Psalm 26:2, Psalm 139:23-24 and II Corinthians 13:5 what can we do to make sure that something that is a “good” pleasure does not become so central to our lives that it becomes elevated to the point of idolatry?

5. Society has quite a different spin on pleasure. Consider these two quotes: “Passion is God wanting to say ‘hi.’...You need no outside authority to give you direction, no higher source to supply you with answers...If you look to see what you feel about it, the answers will be obvious to you, and you will act accordingly.” - From the New Age best-seller of Neale Donald Walsch, Conversations with God
“With no effort other than paying attention to how we’re feeling, we can mold our lives exactly as we choose with relative ease and speed.” - From self-help book, Excuse Me, Your Life is Waiting by Lynn Grabhorn
What are the consequences of making life decision’s according to one’s feelings alone, leaving out the authority and direction of God?

6. Associate Professor and Author J. Budziszewski writes, “The morality of pleasant feelings is quite simple: seek pleasure and avoid pain. In its individualistic form, this is Hedonism. Consider this quote that Budziszewski attributes to a famous ad campaign: “We are Hedonists and we want what feels good. We are all basically Hedonists. That’s what makes us human. And we were made to want pretty simple things: Food. Water. Shelter. Warmth. And pleasure. We want what feels good...If it feels good then just do it.”
As someone who follows Christ what Scripture would you offer to approach someone with this line of thinking?

7. Contrast the above quote with that of Leo Sandon, Jr. who writes, “The Christian affirms the experience of pleasure insofar as it is offered to the greater glory of God and inasmuch as it serves the needs of self and neighbor. Pleasure, however, cannot be elevated as the chief end and aim of human experience.”

8. Read Ecclesiastes 2:1-11. What did the teacher, who is thought to be King Solomon, conclude after indulging in every pleasure imaginable?

9. This passage described a grand experiment with pleasure and how it resulted in total failure. What do you think the writer of Ecclesiastes gave up in pursuit of this “grand experiment?”

10. Commentator Duane A. Garrett writes, “Laugher was insanity, and fun accomplished nothing. He does not imply that all laughter is to be squelched as an evil; rather, as a solution for the basic problems of life (above all the problem of death), it is a total failure. Throughout the book the Teacher will recommend enjoying life, but here he warns that partaking of pleasure does not of itself give meaning to existence.”
What has brought the greatest meaning to your existence?

11. What, in your own words, did Solomon express in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14? How does Solomon’s conclusion increase your understanding of “living for pleasure?”

II Corinthians 13:5 (New American Standard)
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11; 12:13-14 (New American Standard)
Feeling Moral Author: Budziszewski, J. Source: First Things no 127 N 2002, p 9-11. Doc. Type: Article Libraries Worldwide: 746
Garrett, Duane A. The New American Commentary Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs 291
Idolatrous Pleasure. Author: Sandon, Leo. Source: Christian Century 96 no 12 Ap 4 1979, p 367. Doc. Type: Article Libraries Worldwide: 3266
Proverbs 21:17 (New Living Translation)
Psalm 26:2; 139:23-24 (New American Standard)
http://www.ask.com/web?q=dictionary%3A+pleasure&content=ahdict%7C54324&o=0&l=dir

Jesus Calming the Storm

2010-03-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

Mark 4:35-41

1. Did you play ‘hide and seek’ when you were a child? Did you have a favorite hiding place?

2. Read Mark 4:35-41 and Luke 8:22-25. What additional information did Mark give us that
Luke left out?

3. The NLT translation tells us the disciples “Frantically woke Him up, shouting, 'Teacher, don’t
you even care that we are going to drown?’” From the words of Mark’s unvarnished
perspective, do you think the disciples comprehended who Christ was at this time? Why or
why not?

4. Read Mark 4:40; Matthew 13:58; Matthew 17:19-20; Mark 6:5-6; and Hebrews 3:12-19.
What was the greatest spiritual danger for the disciples at this time?
How often, at least in our thoughts, do we imitate the faithless disciples and cry out, “Lord
don’t you care?”

5. Bible commentator Dr. Warren Wiersbe writes, “The greatest danger was not the wind or
the waves: it was the unbelief in the hearts of the disciples. Our greatest problems are
within us, not around us.” Discuss.

6. At what times are you most prone to doubt?

7. Read Psalm 143. Can you relate to any of David’s prayer and plea? What part especially
pinpoints your thoughts or emotions?

8. At what point in Psalm 143 did David’s thoughts turn to express faith in the Lord and His
goodness?

9. Commentator Matthew Henry says, “The more we consider the power of God, the less we
shall fear the face or force of man.”
What comes to mind when you consider the power of God?
Nature?
Miracles?
The Resurrection?
A specific time when you witnessed God’s power in your life?

10. Read John 2:22. A key to bolstering a sagging faith is remembering the great things God
has done for us and His faithfulness in the past. Can you think of ways that God has shown
Himself to be real to you?
In what ways has God been kind and merciful to you?
Can you remember a particular time of blessing in your life?
How has God shown Himself faithful to you?
Who has been a great blessing from God in your life?
In what ways has God saved you from yourself (where would you be in life without Him)?

11. Author James A. Brooks says of Jesus stilling the storm, “the entire story reassured the
believers who had already experienced popular abuse and were facing the prospect of official
persecution. Although Jesus may not always appear to be present or to care, He will deliver
His people who are in various kinds of trouble. Therefore His disciples should never doubt.”
Has there been a time recently when it felt like God was hiding or asleep? What impact did
that have on your faith?

12. Read Hebrews 13:5b-6. What is this great promise that can give the believer confidence and
stronger faith?

Brooks, James A. The New American Commentary on Mark 88
Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 8 656
Henry, Matthew Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible 573
John 2:22 (New American Standard)
Mark 4:35-41; Mark 6:5-6 (New American Standard)
Matthew 13:5b-6; 58; 17:19-20 (New American Standard)
Luke 8:22-2 (New American Standard)
Psalm 143 (New American Standard)
Wiersbe, Warren W. The Bible Expostion Commentary Vol. 1 125

The Parable of the Sower - Part 2

2010-03-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER - pt. 2 Matt 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, Luke 8:1-21March 7, 2010

1. Read Genesis 2:8-9. Who was the first gardener?

2. What kind of gardener are you?
I have a “green thumb”.
I like gardening on a small scale - some flowers, perhaps a few vegetables.
I love gardening and you might see some of the results of my work at the Humboldt County
Fair or the Farmer’s Market.
Gardening for me is part of my life’s work.
I have a black thumb, and anything green I touch evenually dies.

3. Read Mark 4:1-20. In ancient Palestine sowing seed differed some from our modern method. In Jesus’ time the seed was sown first by broadcasting the seed widely, and then plowing the seed under. It was inevitable that some of the seed would go among the thorns, some seed would fall on the hardened path while some seed would land on good ground. How does the ancient method of sowing help to explain how God’s Word is to be communicated?

4. Evaluate the following statements with your answer to question #3 in mind:
I wait to share my faith in Christ until there is “an open door.”
I like to be very strategic with my witnessing and only share when there is a large group
listening.
I only share my faith with people with whom I relate to easily.

5. The parable of the Sower could also be called the Parable of the Soils. It tells us why so many
people are unreceptive to the gospel. What hinderances to the gospels are described in the
hearts of the hearers?

6. Gardening in Humboldt tells us, “The soil in your yard is a mixture of manythings inherited from its past. Included are bits of rock, living and dead plants and animals--mostly of microscopic size--, air and water. What types these are, and their proportion in the general mixture, decides your soil's characteristics.”

Using the anaolgy of the characteristics of soil to describe the characteristics of the human
heart - what kinds of things in our hearts produce it’s attitude? Are there things from the
past? What kinds of things can be like “bits of rock” “something living” “something dead”
“air ” “water?” Describe in form of analogy what might be an application of “proportion in
the general mixture?”

7. Mark 4:4 describes seed that fell beside the road. The condition of this soil representing the condition of some people’s hearts are likened to a hard beaten path where the seed had no chance to take root. Satan could easily steal away the seed before the Word had opportunity to steady down.

In the King James version we read the phrase “He hath said in his heart,” which other translations express as ”He says to himself.” Either way the truth brought to light is that our thought life has much to do with the condition of our hearts. What kinds of thoughts lead to a hardening of one’s heart?

8. Read Luke 4:1-13. In the temptation of Jesus, our Lord used the truth of Scripture to resist Satan’s assault of warped words. Satan tempts people by planting thoughts about God and ourselves that aren’t true. Believing things about God and ourselves that are not based on truth can turn our hearts from the One that can give us abundant and eternal life.

What weapons as believers do we possess when we are bombarded with thoughts that have the capacity to harden our hearts toward our loving God? What can the believer actively do to keep one’s own heart from becoming hard?

9. Another soil Jesus talked about in this parable is the rocky ground. This seed takes root but is shallow because of the condition of the soil. Persecution and trials can be like rocky ground. A shallow faith can be easily uprooted. One can “fall away.” The Greek word for “fall away” is skandalizomai. According to Gaebelein’s Commentary, “A skandalon was originally a stick placed in a trap or snare that, when touched by an animal, caused the trap to spring. In the New Testament it means “cause to stumble.”

What traps or snares can cause people to stumble? How can each of us guard ourselves from allowing these things to cause us to stumble spiritually?

Brooks, James A. The New American Commentary on Mark 79Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 8 651Gardening in Humboldt http://humgardens.com/contents/soils/Mears, Henrietta C. What the Bible is All About 384New American Standard Version of the Bible

Thicker Than Blood

2010-02-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

THICKER THAN BLOOD - MARK 3:31-35
February 14, 2010

1. What movie resonates with you when you consider the word “family?”
2. What three or four words describe your family of origin?
3. Read Mark 3:20, 31-34. From this section of Scripture what is your initial reaction to Jesus’ words in reference to His family?

4. It is said that the best commentary on the Bible is the Bible. This means as we come upon a passage that seems a little puzzling to us or we need more explanation, searching the rest of the Scriptures for illumination is the best way to find clarification. It is obvious from the other parts of Scripture that Jesus greatly valued His physical family. Jesus, on the cross in excruciating pain, instructed John to take care of His mother, Mary. Considering your knowledge of the whole of Scripture, what do you think is the main point Jesus is trying to get across?

5. The New American Commentary on Mark tells us, “Of course Jesus did not teach that physical relationships have no value, only that they must be subordinate to spiritual relationships. Even so, His teaching was radical. It seemed to threaten the most important human institution.” What is it about a spiritual relationship that makes it more significant than even a family relationship?

Digging a little deeper...
6. Author James Brooks says, “Those seated in a circle around Him” obviously are Jesus’ disciples. Despite all their failures, Jesus acknowledged them as those who did God’s will and therefore His true family . . . . Christians have been encouraged that relationship with God is not a matter of genetics but of obedience to God’s will.”
Reflection question: if obedience to Jesus is His measure of ‘family,’ how closely related to Him are you?

7. Author Robert Ellsberg writes, “The ‘family’ that Jesus gathers around Him is hardly what we would call an ‘exclusive club’ ; instead it includes every type of ‘wrong’ person, every type of person who feels marginalized and excluded by the prevailing standards of social value. It is these people, in particular, who experience the call to join Jesus’ family as a genuine blessing.”
Explain in as many ways as possible how ‘radical’ Jesus’ teaching is as relating to calling people who were at one time indifferent rebellious or even enemies, now, because of Christ’s grace and forgiveness, ‘dear family.’

8. Matthew Henry writes in Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible, “It is a great comfort to all true Christians, that they are dearer to Christ than mother, brother, or sister, merely as relations in the flesh.” How do you respond to being dearer to Christ than people who shared their history, experiences, nurture and day-to-day living? How would you put into words the thought that you – personally – right here and right now are very dear to Christ?

9. As you pray for your own needs and concerns this week, please consider thoughtfully and prayerfully how dear you are to Christ.

Brooks, James A., The New American Commentary on Mark, 74Henry, Matthew, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible

What will I do this week to grow in wisdom?1. PRAY - ask God for wisdom.2. READ a section of Scripture each day.3. APPLY what I have read to my life.

Support Groups

2009-09-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

Our Life Groups at Hydesville Community Church include some great support groups. Here is the link to the Humboldt Beacon, a newspaper in Fortuna, California. www.humboldtbeacon.com/ci_12905889?source=most_viewed

Why Join a Life Group?

2008-10-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

R - Relationships with God and others are given a higher priority in our lives. God is all about relationships. He sent His only Son for us so that we might have a personal connected relationship with Him. Because believers in Jesus have the same Father in heaven, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ and can enjoy the incredible experience of being “family.”
E – Evangelism becomes more “natural” – just invite your friends, relatives and work associates to your Life Group. Those who may never step a foot in church may feel comfortable in a home environment with a small group of Christians who demonstrate genuine love, warmth and honesty. This may allow those who are unbelieving to become more receptive to the Christian faith.
L – Learn the Bible in a way that brings it alive to your life and deepens your personal understanding. You will have the opportunity to consider and discuss, ask questions and investigate the Word of God in the context of a Life Group and discover how it applies to your life. The give and take of a small group allows for a whole new level of learning.
A – Attention is given to individuals in a way that could never happen in our large church worship services. It’s in Life Groups “where people know you and care.”
T – Time is set aside each week or bi-monthly to devote to spiritual growth. Participation in a Life Group is saying –God and people are important in my life.
I – Individuals don’t feel isolated when they are in a Life Group. Life Groups are made up of people from different walks of life. There are married couples, single adults, people with children in different stages of life, empty nesters, single college aged, divorced, widowed and senior adults. A Life Group is a small group of people to whom you are connected, study the Bible together, pray together and want to get to know you.
O – Others-oriented lives, are something Jesus talked about repeatedly. Participation in Life Groups means we are thinking and caring about others. Our focus in life widens to care about others in significant and tangible ways.
N - New Testament Christians (as in the book of Acts), met together regularly. There will never be enough professional church staff to meet every individual’s needs. God’s plan was that all Christians would minister to each other.
S – Spiritual Giftedness has a place for expression in Life Groups. Perhaps you will find that you have gifts of leadership that were never discovered. It’s in the context of ministry that your spiritual gift of hospitality, helps, intercession, mercy or administration (as well as many others) is developed and your sense of God-given purpose amplified. Life Groups encompass great opportunities for the development of spiritual gifts.
H – Handling the Pressures of Life comes easier when we share our concerns, struggles, and joys. We find in Life Groups we “do life together” and “rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep”.
I – Investing our lives in eternal values sets our priorities in place. Life Groups help us to do just that.
P – Prayer becomes more significant as we lift up the needs of others in our group and community and have the assurance that our needs are being prayed for as well.
S – Significance – God honoring lives lived out in community give us a sense of significance, knowing that God loves us, saved us through His Son, Jesus Christ, and gives us unique purpose and meaning.

Vision for Life Groups

2008-10-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Our Senior Pastor’s vision for this church includes connecting every person to a Life Group where tight communities of people are built that love and care for each other. People are discipled into mature believers through these groups. Hundreds of “Faith in Action” acts of service, given freely through the ministry of Life Groups, would impact our community with the love and message of Jesus Christ in a tangible way.
Hydesville Community Church has a long history of “small group” ministry. Starting in the early ‘80’s small groups of believers committed to spend 18 months to 2 years together in a “Growth Group”. They met weekly, studied the Bible and, prayed together, fellowshipped, recreated together and reached out into the community with acts of love and service in Jesus name. And ever since that time “Small Groups” have been an intricate element woven into the fabric of our Hydesville Church culture.
I was in one of those first “Growth Groups” and have a vivid memory of it’s beginning. At that time our church sanctuary faced Highway 36. The church hadn’t been redecorated since the 1950’s and the linoleum tile floor and old style hanging wallpaper dipped down precariously from the ceiling above. The building itself didn’t look terribly inviting, but the people within those walls welcomed us with open arms. My husband and I arrived early one morning, as we were official “greeters” for the church service. My husband casually mentioned to Pastor Mike that he thought we would like to join a Growth Group. In just a moment Pastor Mike was speedily back from his study with two booklets in hand and a place for us to sign on the dotted line. I’m not sure I had ever seen him move so fast, but now, nearly twenty-five years later, I totally understand . These small groups whether they are called “Growth Groups” or “Life Groups” have an amazing potential to facilitate great spiritual growth , a real sense of community, and are truly a place where “people know you and care.” If you are someone who gets excited about seeing people grow spiritually and develop in their God-given potential as a unique member of the body of Christ, then you will understand why we are thrilled at seeing this ministry expand. Will you join us on our continuing journey as we dive into this new chapter called Hydesville Community Church “Life Groups?” As Beth Moore would say, “Let’s do this thing together”.
Penny Fregeau, Director of Small Groups
Hydesville Community Church