foundations curriculum

Transcription

1 Leader ' s Guide

2 foundations curriculum VENTURE UP ENCOUNTERING CHRIST IN SCRIPTURE Volume 2, Book 2 TEACHING PLANS Alan R. Buescher Copyright 2015 EquippedChurch.es, a publishing ministry extension of Brentwood Baptist Church

3 VENTURE UP: Encountering Christ in Scripture, Volume 2, Book 2 TEACHING PLANS These teaching plans are designed to be used by adult leaders to lead learners in their individual spiritual journey to Christlikeness. PROJECT LEADERSHIP TEAM J. Steven Layton, Concept & Strategy Roger Severino, Content Design, Scope & Sequence Norma J. Goldman, Project Manager EDITORIAL STAFF Alan R. Buescher, Teaching Plan Writer Brenda A. Harris, Teaching Plan Editor Scotty Smith, Content Writer Printed in the United States of America ISBN Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible Copyright 1999, 2000, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible, Holman CSB and HCSB are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. To view or purchase Foundation Curriculum Resources visit us at To learn more about the JourneyOn Network of Churches and/or JourneyOn Resources, us at info@journeyondiscipleship.com or visit us on the web at

4 what business are you in? As I was walking by a dark restaurant in a nearby town I noticed a sign in the window, Out of Business because we didn t know what business we were in. Pausing for a moment I wondered, how could they not know what business they were in? A sign above the door clearly stated restaurant, which was confirmed by the presence of tables, chairs, menus, and a kitchen on the other side of the window. Surely, when this business began they knew what business they were in but somewhere along the way they lost their excitement, intentionality, and perhaps their love for serving delicious meals. I couldn t help but think about the untold number of other businesses that have gone by the wayside. Then I thought of churches and Christ-followers that had lost sight of the business they are in. God s Word tells us that we are to be formed, conformed, and transformed into the image of Christ (Gal. 4:19; Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18) so that the personality and deeds of Jesus will naturally flow out of us where we live, work, and play. The destination of our journey and the business we are in is movement toward a Christ-centered life. This Travelogue focuses on Christology, a study of the Person and work of Christ. Use it alongside an open Bible with pen in hand to record your journey. It is our hope and prayer that along the way you will know and become more like Jesus. Enjoy the journey, Christ-followers cannot lose sight of the business they are in. J. Steven Layton, D.Min. Discipleship Minister Brentwood, Tennessee

5 study to know the teacher Welcome to the JourneyOn Christological study. I know, Christological is a big word, but it basically means, the study of Christ. So, welcome to our discipleship series based on a study of Christ. This, of course, is what sets Christianity apart from the other world religions. We don t study to know the teachings better. We study to know the Teacher. Sure, we study the Scriptures, but we do so to better know and to get closer to Jesus. Dallas Willard, in his book The Divine Conspiracy, says that Jesus is the wisest person to have ever lived in our world. Jesus knows things about life and what makes life worth living that no one else knows. That s why we want to know Him. We want to get as close to Him as we can. In order to do that, we study. But where do we begin? We put together this study to help you do just that to begin what we pray will be a lifelong journey of knowing Jesus at ever-deepening levels. We want our lives transformed by His Presence. We want our lives empowered by His wisdom and truth. Our prayer is this study helps you get started in the most important process of our lives knowing Christ. After all, Jesus is the only One to have come from God and He s the only One who knows the way back. Michael Glenn, D. Min. Senior Pastor, Brentwood Baptist Church Brentwood, Tennessee

6 introduction to the travelogue Roger Severino The travelogue for Encountering Christ in Scripture is designed to be a companion to an individual or corporate Bible study experience. It will help learners encounter Jesus in the s of the Bible and hopefully experience Him in new and fresh ways. The goal in this series is to reflect deeply on Jesus so that we can know Him intimately and be transformed more and more into His likeness (Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 John 3:1-3). There are different types of journeys. Some are ones we take with friends or family, while others are adventures we pursue on our own. The travelogue is designed to be used either way. Learners may dive into these lessons by themselves, so the journal is designed to stand on its own. Others may gather a group of friends, going through the travelogue together, sharing insights each has gained during private times of engaging the material. Finally, we have developed teaching plans that allow these lessons to be taught in a more traditional format, such as a LIFE Group or Sunday School class. The travelogue is designed to encourage practicing at least four different spiritual disciplines in each lesson. First, learners engage a text of Scripture, thus practicing Bible study. Secondly, a memory verse for each lesson encourages the habit of Bible memorization. Third, journaling will be part of the experience as learners write out their thoughts as they engage the material. Finally, prayer is an essential part of this experience as we reflect on how God is speaking to us. Each travelogue (Book 1: Venture In and Book 2: Venture Up) has 13 lessons on Jesus, seen through the lens of Jesus Titles, His Teachings, Actions, Character, Person, and Work. For each category, two lessons are in Venture In and two lessons in Venture Up, with an introductory lesson in Venture In and a concluding lesson in Venture Up (see Table of Contents for Overview). We hope you will find these lessons to be a true source of joy and encouragement as you take your next steps on the journey to becoming more like the Jesus you encounter in the s of Scripture. Happy travels!

7 who is jesus to you? Norma J. Goldman Your thoughts about Jesus have been shaped by what you ve seen, heard, and experienced up to this point, but do these views and life experiences line up with Scripture? Upon hearing what others were saying about Him, Jesus asked His disciples, But you, who do you say that I am? Simon Peter answered, You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God (Matt. 16:15-16)! Of course, Peter had it right. But we want to know more, to understand more fully just what Messiah, Son of the living God means. And God wants us to know more. In sending Jesus, He demonstrated His desire and willingness to be known. The Gospel writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) present different, but complementary views of Jesus, emphasizing specific roles of: Messiah, Suffering Servant, Savior of the world, eternal Son of God, and Creator of the universe. But, Who is Jesus to you? The two books that comprise this study on Encountering Christ in Scripture were designed to help you answer this important, deeply personal question and further, to cause you to love Him more deeply than you ever imagined possible. When a person falls in love, the object of his affection falls under intense scrutiny what does she like; not like; where did he grow up; what kinds of food, music, and entertainment does he like? How does she think, what influences her, what are his goals, and why? Humans display a single focus for a period of time, just discovering answers to all these and more questions. We want you to fall deeply in love with Jesus, as Savior of the world and (we pray) your personal Savior. We want you to discover who He is in eternity past, present, and future; to know why He came from heaven to dwell in human flesh; and how He manifested the love of God in choosing death on a Roman cross. To do that will take work, likely causing you to challenge previous ideas, broaden and deepen your understanding, or even change a misconception. As Peter was transformed by knowing Jesus, may you know Him, experiencing that same transformation.

8 christology overview CATEGORIES The Titles of Jesus 1. Messiah / Christ 2. Lord 3. Son of God 4. Son of Man The Teachings of Jesus 1. Discipleship 2. Kingdom of God 3. Religion vs. the Gospel 4. Ministry to Others The Actions of Jesus 1. Calls Others to Follow 2. Miracles and Healings 3. Confronts Evil 4. Preaches and Proclaims The Character of Jesus 1. Compassionate 2. Courageous 3. Humility 4. Sacrificial The Person of Jesus 1. His Humanity 2. His Deity 3. Unity of His Person 4. Trinity of the Godhead The Work of Jesus 1. His Cross Atonement 2. His Resurrection and Ascension 3. His Work Today 4. His Return 26 LESSONS Book 1 1. Introduction to Jesus 2. The Titles of Jesus: Messiah / Christ 3. The Teachings of Jesus: Discipleship 4. The Actions of Jesus: Calls Others to Follow 5. The Character of Jesus: Compassionate 6. The Person of Jesus: His Humanity 7. The Work of Jesus: His Cross Atonement 8. The Titles of Jesus: Lord 9. The Teachings of Jesus: Kingdom of God 10. The Actions of Jesus: Performs Miracles and Healings 11. The Character of Jesus: Courageous 12. The Person of Jesus: His Deity 13. The Work of Jesus: His Resurrection and Ascension Book 2 1. The Titles of Jesus: Son of God 2. The Teachings of Jesus: Religion vs. the Gospel 3. The Actions of Jesus: Confronts Evil 4. The Character of Jesus: Humility 5. The Person of Jesus: Unity of Person 6. The Work of Jesus: His Work Today 7. The Titles of Jesus: Son of Man 8. The Teachings of Jesus: Ministry to Others 9. The Actions of Jesus: Preaches and Proclaims 10. The Character of Jesus: Sacrificial 11. The Person of Jesus: Trinity of the Godhead 12. The Work of Jesus: His Return 13. Epilogue Lesson

9 resources HELPFUL BOOKS RELATED TO THE LIFE OF CHRIST AND CHRISTOLOGY Blomberg, Craig L., Jesus and the Gospels: An Introduction and Survey, Second Edition. Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group, Stein, Robert H., Jesus the Messiah: A Survey of the Life of Christ. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, Strauss, Mark L., Four Portraits, One Jesus: A Survey of Jesus and the Gospels. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, Witherington, Ben, The Christology of Jesus. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Press, HELPFUL BOOKS RELATED TO THEOLOGY Alexander, T. Desmond and Brian S. Rosner, eds., New Dictionary of Biblical Theology. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, Erickson, Millard J., Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, Ferguson, Sinclair B. and J. I. Packer, New Dictionary of Theology. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, Grudem, Wayne, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, Packer, J. I., Concise Theology: a Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, HELPFUL COMMENTARIES AND OTHER BIBLICAL RESOURCES Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary. Nashville: Holman Reference, Holman New Testament Commentary Set. Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers. The IVP New Testament Commentary Series. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. The New American Commentary Set. Nashville: Broadman Press. The New Bible Commentary. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic. The New Bible Dictionary. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic. HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR BIBLE STUDY To view or purchase Foundations Curriculum Resources visit us at To learn more about the JourneyOn Network of Churches and/or JourneyOn Resources us at info@journeyondiscipleship.com or visit us on the web at

10 about the writing team Alan R. Buescher wrote the teaching plans for this study on the person and work of Christ. Alan previously served as a pastor in Alaska and as staff member for several churches in Texas. He is presently a paralegal in the Tennessee Department of Human Services, Office of General Counsel in Nashville. Dr. Buescher s education includes a bachelor s degree in business administration from Samford University, and a master s degree in economics from Baylor University. He also holds master s degrees in divinity and religious education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a graduate certificate in Middle Eastern Studies, Institute of Holy Land Studies in Jerusalem, and a Doctor of Philosophy from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Rhonda are members of Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, where they both play in the orchestra. Brenda A. Harris edited the teaching plans for this study, bringing a wealth of experience from her work as content editor for Explore the Bible and HomeLife magazine at LifeWay Christian Resources. She currently serves as Communications Associate and Prayer Coordinator for Christian filmmakers, The Kendrick Brothers. Brenda has been married to her best friend Mike for more than 43 years and they currently serve the Lord at Northside Baptist Church, Murfreesboro, Tennessee. At a young age, Brenda committed her life to Christ during a study of Luke in the New Testament, and she subsequently developed a deep love of Scripture. Scotty Smith wrote the 13-lesson Foundations study on Encountering Christ in Scripture. He has authored several books, including Objects of His Affection, Restoring Broken Things (with Stephen Curtis Chapman), The Reign of Grace, and Everyday Prayers: 365 Days to a Gospel Centered Faith. Scotty holds degrees in religion from The University of North Carolina and Westminster Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Covenant Theological Seminary. As founding pastor of Christ Community Church in Franklin, Tennessee, Scotty oversaw its growth for 26 years. Now serving as Teacher in Residence at West End Community Church, Scotty also serves as adjunct faculty at Covenant Theological Seminary, Westminster Theological Seminary, Redeemer Seminary, Reformed Theological Seminary, and Western Seminary. Scotty and Darlene, his wife of 42 years, live in Franklin, Tennessee. They have two adult children and love doting on their two grandsons.

11 table of contents VENTURE UP: Teaching Plans Volume 2, Book 2 What Business Are You In? - J. Steven Layton Study to Know the Teacher - Michael D. Glenn Introduction to the Travelogue - Roger Severino Who Is Jesus to You? - Norma J. Goldman Christology Overview Resource Page About the Writing Team Lessons Son of God: Beyond Comparison - John 5: Good News: Religion vs. the Gospel - Luke Confronting Evil: His Work, Our Work - Luke 4: Humility: Countercultural Leadership - John 13: Jesus: The Fullness of God in Human Form - Philippians 2: Jesus at Work: A Present Reality - Ephesians 4: Son of Man: The Servant King - Matthew 26: Ministry to Others: Conduit of His Grace - John Preaching with Authority: Grace and Truth - Matthew 4:23-7: Sacrifice: A Demonstration of Love - John 10: The Trinity: Ultimate Community - John His Return: Living with Hope - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5: Jesus: Worthy of Worship - Revelation 1:1-8 97

12 LESSON 1 son of god beyond comparison To gain a clearer understanding that one of Jesus primary focuses in ministry was to teach what it means to follow Him as a disciple. TEACHING AIM: WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: Jesus identity as Son of God reveals the uniqueness and eternality of His relationship with God, and is the basis upon which we become children of God and live in hope. To understand that Jesus is the unique Son of God, who not only fulfills the Davidic Kingship of the Son of God, but also has a unique relationship with the Father that includes honoring Him and worshiping Him as we do the Father. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verses: J O H N 5: JOHN 5: J O HN 3 : The Jewish leaders take offense that Jesus calls God His Father, making Himself equal with God (v. 18). The Son does what the Father tells Him to do (v. 19). The Father loves the Son (vv ). The Father has delegated judgment to the Son (v. 22). We honor the Father the way we honor His Son (v. 23). For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 11 son of god

13 PREPARING TO TEACH Christians can easily take for granted the title Son of God without realizing its unique significance as part of the relationship within the Trinity. Son of God implies Jesus fulfillment as the Davidic King. Ponder these questions as you prepare to teach this week: Did the divine Father/Son relationship exist before earthly fathers and sons existed, so that the divine Father/Son relationship illuminates the relationship between earthly fathers and sons? Or did the designations Father and Son (for two persons of the Trinity) arise after human history began only as a means for God to help us understand Him better via earthly realities? Thoroughly study and meditate on all the Scriptures listed in this lesson plan as well as in the Venture Up Travelogue. The meaning of the title Son of God rests heavily on God s Word and cannot be understood simply through logic and opinion. Prepare five cards on which you ve written one of these sets of verses. Enlist class members to be prepared to read them: Hebrews 1:1-14; John 1:14, 18, 34, 49; John 14:9; John 3:16, 36; John 20:31. Since this lesson references many Bible passages, print the text of the verses on a separate or place bookmarks in your Bible for quick reference while you teach. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS BELOVED OF A FATHER As class members arrive, direct them to silently review Beloved of a Father from the Travelogue (pp. 9-10). After a few minutes, relate the following story, prefaced with this statement: I am going to share another family story after which I ll ask you a few questions so we can compare the two. Share a synopsis of this story or share your own personal family story: The greatest thing my father did for my siblings and me, apart from cultivating his relationship with the Lord, was to love our mother. Their love for each other created a home of love, warmth, acceptance, provision, and safety and that love overflowed toward my siblings and me. 12 son of god

14 Our father expressed his love for his family openly in word and deed. We were never too old to receive his hugs and kisses. I have many fond childhood memories of my dad. As older children, our parents told us that they only required us to do our best give 100 percent in whatever we did. Our performance did not determine their love for us; it actually never can for anyone. That s not love. Our parents love provided us with an acceptance that allowed us to pursue excellence, try new things, and discover what we enjoyed in life based on the gifts God had given us. My father died over 13 years ago, but he still provides this for me: I know so much what God is like and who God is because I know my father. Lead learners in a comparison of this family story with the one in the Travelogue by asking questions such as the following: How does an earthly father s relationship with his child affect the way the child sees God the Father? Why do some fathers have more difficulty expressing unconditional love than other fathers? As a church, how can we strengthen families so that children know their parents love them? Begin the study time with prayer. BELOVED OF THE FATHER Before reading Matthew 3:17, establish the context of the event in which the words were spoken: Jesus baptism by John. Say: The Travelogue (p. 10) states: But those words weren t spoken for Jesus benefit, but for ours. Do you agree? Why or why not? Allow time for discussion. Note that in Mark and Luke, the words are directed to Jesus, for Him to hear: You are My beloved Son; I take delight in You! (Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22). Then comment: How do you think that statement from the Father affected Him? Allow time for discussion. Indicate that as stated in the Travelogue on 10, the title, Son of God, is used more than any other title in the New Testament to reveal who Jesus is, and to help us understand what He came into the world to accomplish. Comment: What is astounding to us is not that the Father loves Jesus perfectly, but that God loves us as much as He loves Jesus. 13 son of god

15 Read aloud John 17:23. Ask: What keeps people (Christians and non-christians) from believing that God loves them as much as He loves Jesus? Allow time for discussion. Teaching Option If time permits, dig deeper into the relationship between God the Father and God the Son, but keep the focus of the lesson on the teaching aim. Ask: What is the most important word in the English language? Record responses on the board; then share the following excerpt from Oscar Thompson s book, Concentric Circles of Concern: The most important word in the English language, apart from proper nouns, is relationship. You say, but love has to be the most important word. I ask you, though, where is love going if there is no relationship? Relationship is the track. Love is what rolls over the track. Love moves through a relationship. But the thing that satisfies the deepest longing of your being is a relationship with someone. 1 Explain: Elohim is the Hebrew word for God. In the titles of God, the name El is often used instead of the full name Elohim. Elohim is a plural noun. Enlist a class member to read the Shema from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Explain that these verses are called the Shema and shema is a command meaning listen or hear. Ask: How do you reconcile the plural name Elohim (God) with the reality that God is one? Field answers and then explain that, with the final revelation of God through Jesus Christ, the concept of the Trinity could likely explain the plural noun Elohim. (For further insight, see Millard J. Erickson s Christian Theology [Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013, pp ] or the online article Gods at Briefly explain: Within the being of the one God, Elohim (a plural noun), there exists a relationship among the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. God is so much more than our mortal minds can comprehend that analogies are sometimes used to help us understand the Trin- 14 son of god

16 ity. One important way God has expressed part of this relationship among the Trinity is the Father/Son relationship between God and God Incarnate (Jesus). But this divine relationship is more than simply an analogy. Ask: Why do you think God chose the father/son relationship to express the relationship between Elohim and Jesus? Why not siblings, husband/wife, or master/slave? Field answers. Lead learners to examine some aspects of an earthly father/son relationship by asking: What are some phrases parents say to their children when disciplining them? Write the phrases on the board as learners respond. Be sure to include: 1. Do as I say, not as I do. 2. This hurts me more than it hurts you. 3. I brought you into this world; I can take you out. 4. Just wait til your father gets home. 5. Go to your room. Teaching Option Use the five answers to play an abbreviated version of Family Feud. Say: We surveyed our audience and got the top five answers to this question: What do parents say to their children when they discipline them? Ask: Why do parents discipline their children? Did Jesus ever need to be disciplined by God the Father? Why or why not? Summarize responses. Say: Jesus never needed discipline because He never sinned. Scripture says Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered (Heb. 5:8). Obedience wasn t automatic. Jesus learned obedience. Call attention to the phrase: Do as I say, not as I do. Say: The relationship between God the Father and the Son of God was 15 son of god

17 entirely different. Jesus said nothing nor did anything but what He heard or saw His Father saying and doing. Read John 5:19-20, 30; 12: Remind learners that His life was lived in total obedience to the Father. Say: One key aspect of the relationship between God the Father and Jesus, the Son of God Jesus obeyed the Father 100 percent. Write that statement on the board. Then read Philippians 2:5-11. Comment: Because Jesus emptied Himself and lived life as a human being, He had to obey the Father completely to accomplish His purpose of redemption. And because He accomplished our salvation, we are made sons of the living God through faith in Christ, the Son of God. Read Galatians 3:26. Highlight this statement from 10 of the Travelogue: Jesus Sonship makes our sonship possible. Enlist a volunteer to read John 1:12-13; 1 John 3:1-3. JESUS SONSHIP AND KINGSHIP Remind class members that the relationship between Jesus, the Son of God, and God the Father manifests itself in fulfillment of the promise made to David from his lineage, God would establish a king forever. Based on your study of Scripture and the Travelogue (pp ), present a brief lecture of this material. If time permits, use all the Scriptures cited but be sure to include 2 Samuel 7:8-17 and Revelation 19:16. Direct learners to respond to the question on 12 of the Travelogue: How would you live your life differently if you really believed Jesus is already King of kings and Lord of lords, and is sovereignly reigning over world politics, issues in your family, and the brokenness and struggles in your own heart? THE UNIQUENESS OF JESUS SONSHIP 16 son of god

18 Say: Always remember that Jesus Sonship is unique. He is the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16). Enlist a volunteer to read aloud John 5: Emphasize that the Pharisees understood the Son of God as equal to God (John 5:18). Call on volunteers to read 1 John 2:22 and John 5:23b. Say: Since Jesus is the Son of God, it means He is equal to God. Write on the board: Jesus = God. Ask the five class members you enlisted earlier to read the Scripture passages indicating that the Son of God is God. Guide discussion of these verses. BELOVED CHILDREN, UNSURE OR- PHANS, OR FEARFUL SLAVES? Ask: What does Jesus equality with God the Father and His total obedience to the Father mean for us? Field answers. Read Galatians 4:4-7. Direct class members to three truths Paul pointed out that are listed in the Travelogue (p. 17): We are adopted into the family of God. We are given the Spirit of His Son. We are made heirs of God our Father. Guide a discussion of the benefits of these truths and what each one means to us as believers. Review the information under Marks of an Unsure Orphan, Marks of a Fearful Slave, and Marks of a Beloved Child on s of the Travelogue and guide learners to examine their own personal relationship with God the Father. CONCLUSION Close the session by saying: Jesus prayed to the Father, May they be made completely one, so the world may know You have sent Me and have loved them as You have loved Me (John 17:23b). Ask: Can you imagine the difference it would make in your life if you really believed that God loves you as much as He loves His One and Only Son? 17 son of god

19 Challenge learners to take time today to ponder the question on 11 of the Travelogue: What are the biggest obstacles in your life to really believing God loves you as much as He loves Jesus? Close in prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH Pray for each class member by name at least once during the coming week. Pray that each one will realize that God the Father loves him/her as much as the Father loves the Son. Text or learners this week to remind them of at least one truth that was discussed in class about our unique relationship with God the Father. W. Oscar Thompson, Jr., Concentric Circles of Concern (Nashville: Broadman Press, 1991), son of god

20 LESSON LESSON21 spiritual GOOD NEWS practices Religion VS. the Gospel introduction to spiritual practices ToTo teach leadthe group biblical members principle to increasingly of implementing allow God certain s grace spiritual to guide practices their lives and habits through into faith, our lives rather in order than trying to conform to be good us more enough into the orimage better ofthrough Christ. human effort to please God. Though we are saved by grace through faith alone and not by any self-effort, we The gospel and religion are antithetical. The gospel what didbiblical to estabare called to cooperate with God s work in our lives and is live outgod certain lish aas relationship through Jesus. Religion man s effort to gain a practices a means to with allowusgod to make us more likeisjesus. relationship with God apart from Jesus. TEACHING TEACHINGAIM:AIM: WHYWHYSTUDY THIS STUDY THIS LESSON: LESSON: DESIRED DESIREDOUTCOME OUTCOME// PRACTICE: PRACTICE: The goal of all the spiritual practices is not to win brownie points with Each member spend strengthening God, butclass rather to putwill us inbea challenged position to to hear frommore Himtime and allow Him to their personal relationship to God through faith and prayer, thanking Him transform us so that we become more like Jesus. for His love and grace and learning to rely more on Him. Background Background Passage: Passage: scripture scripture Passage: Passage: 1 T IMLOTU KEH Y 74 Memory Memory Verses: Verse: 1 TIMOTHY LUKE 7:34: L U K E 7:47 T raining The self-righteous in the faithjudge, and insinners good love teaching should lead us to be good (vv ). servants of Jesus Christ (v. 6) But Therefore have nothing I tell you, to do herwith irreverent andhave sillybeen myths. many sins for-rather, train yourself in godliness. given; that s why she loved The parable of two debtors (vv ). Training for godliness has benefits in this life and the life to come (vv. 7-8) The parable applied (vv ). 1 Tthe I MOTone HY 4who :7 is much. But forgiven little, loves little. Though we are saved by grace Jesus pronounces forgiveness through faith, we train and laboralready to cooperate God to become godly receivedwith (vv ). people (vv. 9-10) 19 good news 19 communion with god

21 PREPARING TO TEACH Do you always please God? As believers in Jesus Christ, we are new creations. Our sins are forgiven, the penalty for our sins having been fully paid by Jesus on the cross where He became sin for us. And yet, as believers we realize that we will never attain to sinless perfection. Works do not save us; but when we sin, this cannot possibly please God. As Paul exhorts the church at Thessalonica, Don t stifle the Spirit (1 Thess. 5:19). Victorious Christian living comes only through faith, just as new life in Christ begins only by faith. And yet, the writer of Hebrews states, In struggling against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood (Heb. 12:4). How do our efforts play into our faith-walk with Jesus? As you prepare to teach this week, meditate on Luke 7 (the background passage), Romans 7-8, and Galatians 2:15 3:3. Teacher Helps For additional commentary on Luke 7, go to com. Enter the Scripture passage. When the passage appears, open the Commentary Tool under Cross References or go to Video Tool to view a 7-minute lesson by Dr. Gene Getz. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS PLEASE, DON T GIVE ME THAT OLD TIME RELIGION Welcome group members and guests. Ask them to consider: What is the difference between religion and a relationship with God? Allow time for discussion. (Be sure to include in the responses that that people often see religion as a list of things you shouldn t do.) Comment: Although such a list like the Ten Commandments is definitely part of a relationship with God (they are God s words after all), it s easy to misunderstand such a list of 20 good news

22 commands as a means by which we enter a relationship with God, which is impossible since no human can keep God s laws. We all sin and fall short of God s glory. Present the following scenario to your class: A young man repents and places his faith in Jesus. After several months of soaking up Scripture like a sponge in his unfolding relationship with the Lord, the young man realizes that sin remains a reality in his life. He asks you, Why do we still have to sin? Ask your learners: How would you answer him? Field responses and encourage group discussion. Ask: What are the requirements for becoming a Christian? As you write responses on the board, encourage the learners to provide Scripture passages to support their responses. If they are slow to respond, mention some Scripture references such as John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:20; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 8:1-4; and others. Teacher Option As an alternative to the above question, summarize the writer s testimony from Venture Up Travelogue, s Then invite the learners to respond to the following question (p. 21): How would you explain the difference between religion and the gospel to someone who has zero background in Christianity, the church world, or the Bible? Read, or enlist a volunteer to read, the focal passage, Luke 7:36-50, while other learners follow along in their own Bibles. Ask the following two questions from the Travelogue on 22: How does Simon personify the fruit of religion in a person s life? How does the woman personify the fruit of grace in a person s life? Continue the examination of these verses by asking: Does Jesus statement in verse 50 indicate that the woman received salvation at that moment, or was she already saved before she entered Simon s house? (She had already had a saving encounter with Jesus previously. Her expression of love toward Jesus 21 good news

23 in worship indicated her thankfulness for her sins having been forgiven, as the verb tense in verse 47 shows: her many sins have been forgiven. Also, Jesus parable shows that the expression of love comes after forgiveness is received.) State and ask: Jesus told the woman that her faith had saved her. How do you know when your sins are forgiven? (Part of the answer should include reliance on God s word; e.g., 1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We cannot rely on feelings, emotions or wishful thinking.) Now ask learners to respond to this statement from 22 in the Travelogue: Believers need the gospel just as much as nonbelievers. Allow for discussion and ask for Scripture passages to back up the responses. Say: As we know, no Christian is perfect. We all still sin. Read 1 John 1:8 Say: The Christian life should be one of growing in the grace of Christ, which will result in sinning less as time passes. Read Romans 8: Note that the verb used here expresses continuous action. Summarize the truths of these discussions using these ideas and your own thoughts: Becoming a Christian does not give us instant, sinless perfection or maturity. Becoming a Christian means that God has established a relationship with us by our faith through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, and that this relationship is one that should grow and mature. As we come to know God better, we will probably continue to grow in our worship of Jesus and express our gratitude as did the woman who washed, kissed and anointed Jesus feet in deep gratitude. Most of us have discovered that the closer we get to God, the more we see our sinfulness and total dependency on the grace of God through Jesus Christ. Direct learners to the final response section under True Worship on 25 of the Travelogue. Provide a time of silent reflection. 22 good news

24 WHO IS THIS MAN? Say: After Jesus had told the woman that her sins were forgiven, look at the response of the men dining with Jesus: Those who were at the table with Him began to say among themselves, Who is this man who even forgives sins? (Luke 7:49). Ask: Does Jesus have the ability to forgive sins? Why? (Use the material in the Travelogue on pp , especially the last three paragraphs of Who is This Man? to add to what the learners say.) Teaching Option If time allows, briefly touch upon the struggle Christians have with sin as shown in Romans 7: State and ask: Paul says in Romans 7:25, So then, with my mind I myself am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh, to the law of sin. How can a Christian serve two masters? How can your mind serve the law of God while your flesh serves the law of sin? (See Matt. 6:24 which addresses the question, Who or what is supreme in your life: God or the things of the world? Similarly, the Bible states that greed is idolatry [see Col. 3:5]. Continue to Rom. 8:1-17 to examine God s way of conquering sin and living by His Spirit. Note that your group members will have already read Rom. 8:12-13.) THE WAY OF THE GOSPEL OR THE WAY OF RELIGION? Use the Gospel/religion statements on s of the Travelogue to summarize the study. Divide the group and ask half of them to read the Gospel statements in unison (one statement at a time) and then instruction the other half to respond with the religion statement that follows. Allow time for comments and discussion, either between each set of statements or after all of them have been read aloud. 23 good news

25 Teaching Option Replace the Gospel/religion exercise with this activity. Say: Paul writes to the Galatians about how to live the Christian life. Enlist a volunteer to read Galatians 2:16 3:3. Guide a discussion of this passage noting the following: We are saved and receive the Spirit by hearing with faith. J ust as we can only begin a relationship with God by faith in Jesus, so also we can only mature in our relationship with God by faith. A works-based religion is man-made and can save no one. F aith-plus-works religion is also man-made religion and can save no one. A ny religion that denies that Jesus is the Son of God, and relies upon works to any degree for salvation is a false religion. Only faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who died for us, and whom God raised from the dead, can provide forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6). CONCLUSION Read 2 Peter 3:18 and Romans 1: Comment briefly on verse 17: The phrase from faith to faith is indicative of how the righteousness of God manifests itself in us. We have no righteousness of our own the righteousness of God is revealed in and through us as we live continually by faith in Jesus Christ. If you normally have a time for prayer requests after the lesson, take those requests and pray. Then have your group members continue in prayer as you lead them as follows: Say: As we continue in prayer, take some time now to silently praise God for some aspect of His character His patience, loving-kindness, purity, or almighty power. Talk to Him now. Allow enough time of silence for each learner to pray silently, then continue. 24 good news

26 Now confess to God any sins you have committed this past week that you have not yet confessed. God already knows; He just wants you to tell Him. Again, allow time for silent confession, then continue. Ask God s Holy Spirit to search your heart and show you anything in your life in which you are not trusting God. Perhaps you need to say to God, I do believe! Help my unbelief (Mark 9:24b). After time for silent confession, close the prayer time with this prayer or a similar one of your own: Our Heavenly Father, the only righteousness we have is the righteousness of Jesus; and that s more than sufficient. So through the love, faith and confidence we have in your Son, Jesus Christ, we affirm your Words that say, Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God s throne (Heb. 12:1-2). We offer this prayer in the holy name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. FOLLOW THROUGH Pray for each group member by name that he/she will grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Contact and/or have others in the class contact (either by phone, or card/letter) members who have not been present in class recently. 25 good news

27 LESSON 3 confronting evil his work, our work TEACHING AIM: To observe that Jesus came to confront and overcome evil in the world, both in its spiritual, demonic form, and also evil that resides in the human heart. Understanding Jesus victory over the Devil, the powers of darkness, and evil is critical for our growth and freedom in Christ, and for defining and empowering us for our mission in the world. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: Believers recognize that Jesus Christ in them is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world (see 1 John 4:4). The One we serve confronts evil in all its forms. We are called to join Him in confronting evil in our own hearts and in overcoming evil in the world by putting on the full armor of God (Eph. 6). Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: L U KE 4: LUK E 4: J A ME S 4:7 Jesus worshiped regularly in His local synagogue (v. 16). J esus presented Himself as the promised Messiah and announced His fulfillment of part of Isaiah s Messianic prophecy (vv ). 26 confronting evil Therefore, submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you.

28 PREPARING TO TEACH Are you living victoriously in Christ? Do others see the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) in you? Do you feel you can teach others how to engage in spiritual warfare? Spend time this week studying the Venture Up Travelogue, particularly concentrating on the section titled Putting on Christ as Our Greatest Weapon. Memorize and meditate on the memory verse, James 4:7. Invest the time to do word studies on submitting to God and resisting the Devil through the use of Bible dictionaries, books on Christian theology, and other resources. In preparation for the study, read this article and print a copy for use during the session: Superheroes: Good vs. Evil Isn t Really Much of a Theme ( Highlight the passages you will to refer to during the discussion. Provide the URL address for class members who may want to read the entire article after class time. Write these two quotes on the board: Good and evil exist only in the human heart and mind and cannot be artificially separated. One always contains the seeds of the other (Jim Emerson, film critic). There is, however, no human decision that does not spring from an intimate mixture of both good and bad motives. It is impossible ever to disentangle them entirely 1 (Paul Tournier, Christian physician / author). Provide hymnals or lyrics to O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing. This week s study involves the use of several Scripture passages. Write some of the references on cards and enlist volunteers who don t mind reading. Distribute the cards as they arrive. To aid in locating the ones you will read aloud, mark them in your Bible ahead of time. 27 confronting evil

29 TEACHING SUGGESTIONS CARTOON THEOLOGY, DUALISM, AND A LITTLE JESUS Ask your learners: Name some movies whose primary theme is good vs. evil. Record responses on the board. (Some possible answers: Star Wars, Spider Man, Superman, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and many Disney movies.) Refer to the first quote written on the board: Good and evil exist only in the human heart and mind and cannot be artificially separated. One always contains the seeds of the other. Point out and read Paul Tournier s quote: There is, however, no human decision that does not spring from an intimate mixture of both good and bad motives. It is impossible ever to disentangle them entirely. Comment that Emerson argues that the good vs. evil theme is really meaningless. Say: In his article Superheroes: Good vs. Evil Isn t Really Much of a Theme, Emerson argues that the motivations of the Nazis were not totally evil. From their point of view, they thought their actions would produce a better world. In other words, all humans act from mixed motives, both good and evil. Emerson wrote that the Nazis were people like you and me who found themselves capable of doing monstrous things in the name of a Great Cause in which their faith was pure and fervent and unshakeable. That s the stuff of history, and that s the stuff of drama. Remark: Tournier believed that no motive is purely evil and no motive is purely good. Guide a discussion of these quotes by asking: Do you agree or disagree with these views on good and evil? Include these comments to enhance the discussion: I f we are to encounter non-believers in the world, we need to be willing to hear what they have to say without judging them. They may have some insights that are legitimate. Ask: Can good and evil be separated in the heart and mind? Explain. Enlist two volunteers to read these Scripture 28 confronting evil

30 passages: James 3:7-12 and Romans 7: Read this sentence from Emerson s article: They weren t monsters they were people like you and me who found themselves capable of doing monstrous things in the name of a Great Cause in which their faith was pure and fervent and unshakeable. Ask: Is there any issue for which non-christians think this sentence is applicable to Christians? Explain. Comment: Many non-christians may believe that Christians want nothing to do with people who are not like themselves, who do not share the same values and beliefs on a variety of topics, whether theological issues, social issues, or political issues (such as abortion, marriage, and education curriculum). Ask: Are they right? Why or why not? Ask: How do you reconcile your beliefs to Tournier s remark that no motive is purely good or evil? Or can you? Explain. Refer to the Travelogue and the writer s description of Donald Duck s dilemma and his own struggle (p. 30). Summarize by reading the paragraph that begins The Scriptures are clear Guide a discussion of their responses to the two questions following that paragraph. A BIG JESUS, A LIVING HOPE, AND THE ULTIMATE JUBILEE Summarize in your own words: The reality of human existence is that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). Once we repent and believe the gospel, we discover that we still sin as Christians. We may actually sin when we think we have proper motives. Too often we find ourselves experiencing Romans 7, and discover the same principle that Paul discovered: So I discover this principle: When I want to do what is good, evil is with me (Rom. 7:21). Could it be true as Jim Emerson stated, Good and evil exist only in the human heart and mind and cannot be artificially separated? At least 29 confronting evil

31 we can affirm somewhat similarly: I see the reality that good and evil exist in me, one who has already been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb of God. Recognizing this inner tension between good and evil in ourselves, we cry out, Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from this dying body (Rom. 7:24)? Distribute hymnals (or lyrics) and direct learners to Charles Wesley s hymn, O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing. Lead the group in reciting the fourth verse. Call particular attention to the first two lines: He breaks the power of canceled sin, He sets the prisoner free. Ask: How do these lines apply to these verses from Romans? Enlist a volunteer to read the focal passage, Luke 4:16-21, while others follow along in their Bibles. Comment: The passage that Jesus read was a Messianic prophecy from Isaiah 61. Jesus claimed to fulfill this prophecy; in other words, He said that He was the Messiah. Note particularly that Jesus came to proclaim release to the captives. Continue: In verse 19, the year of the Lord s favor refers to the year of Jubilee. Use the explanation of the Year of Jubilee on 35 in the Travelogue to show how Jesus fulfills the Year of Jubilee as the Messiah, emphasizing that its complete fulfillment will occur when Jesus returns to earth. Direct learners to 33 in the Travelogue. Read the following: Jesus liberates us from various imprisonments and captivities. By the grace of the gospel, Jesus breaks our personal enslavements to sin (Rom. 6:14), idolatry (Ezek. 14:1-5), and unbelief (Mark 9:24) the core captivities of the heart. But he also frees us from systemic brokenness, godless worldviews, and graceless value systems we ve inherited from our families or absorbed from the world (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 John 2:15). Call on various class members to read aloud each of the Scripture passages mentioned: Romans 6:14; Ezekiel 14:1-5; Mark 9:24; Romans 12:1-2; and 1 John 2: confronting evil

32 PUTTING ON CHRIST AS OUR GREATEST WEAPON Read or summarize: The Christian life is not a life of sinful perfection. Yes, we are still in bodies that will die because of sin, and yet we have been redeemed with all of our sins, past, present and future having been paid for by the death and resurrection of Jesus. The reality is, though, that good and evil can be separated, in contradiction to Jim Emerson s viewpoint in the article we read earlier. Satan and his demons are real, but Jesus has already conquered Satan, sin, and death. After Jesus left Nazareth on that eventful Sabbath day, He traveled to Capernaum and on another Sabbath day cast out a demon from a man in the synagogue. Enlist a volunteer to read Luke 4: Ask the class: How do we live in victory over the world, the flesh, and the Devil? Use the material in the Travelogue on 36 (beginning with With every bone in my body... ) to lead the learners in a discussion of this question. Include the statement: A better perspective is to see how Paul equates putting on armor of light with putting on the Lord Jesus Christ. Ask a class member to read Romans 13: Guide a discussion of these three numerated items in the Travelogue on s using comments from the Travelogue as a starting point: 1. To put on Christ is the best way to resist Satan s primary scheme and attack 2. To put on Christ means that we are constantly learning and savoring the riches of the gospel 3. To put on Christ means that we are proactively cultivating a lifestyle of communing with Jesus 31 confronting evil

33 CONCLUSION Be prepared to read the following Scripture passages. Say: Listen to these passages knowing that God s Word is truth. Therefore, submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7). The Son of God was revealed for this purpose: to destroy the Devil s works (1 John 3:8b).... the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (1 John 4:4b).... whatever has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith (1 John 5:4). Conclude by saying: In spiritual warfare, we must take the offensive, for the forces of Hades will not overpower it [the church] (Matt. 16:18b). These are God s words for God s people. Hear them, believe them, and live. Close in prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH Pray for each class member by name. Pray that each person will not be led into temptation, but that God will deliver them from evil. Be observant this week of people you encounter that you don t know. Pray silently for each one. Pray that the person will know Jesus and the power of His resurrection. Ask God to use you to His love and hope with others aul Tournier, The Person Reborn (San Francisco: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1966), P 79. confronting evil

34 LESSON LESSON41 spiritual humility practices Counter-Cultural Leadership introduction to spiritual practices Christ we are tooflive in a way thatcertain exemplifies Jesus Christ rather ToAs teach thefollowers biblical principle implementing spiritual practices and than standards of the secular world. This lesson will illustrate the humility of habits into our lives in order to conform us more into the image of Christ. Christ and challenge us to live a life of service-oriented humility rather than selfpromotion. Though we are saved by grace through faith alone and not by any self-effort, we Our grasp of the gospel is nosbetter than awe of live Jesus Rather are called to cooperate with God work in ourour lives and outhumility. certain biblical than being one of qualities, practices as a means tojesus allowmany God toadmirable make us more likehumility Jesus. is central to His person and work. TEACHINGAIM:AIM: TEACHING WHYWHYSTUDY THIS STUDY THIS LESSON: LESSON: DESIRED DESIREDOUTCOME OUTCOME// PRACTICE: PRACTICE: The goal ofa all the spiritual practices is not to win brownie points towith Gaining deeper understanding of Christ s character and service others God, but rather to put us in a position to hear from Him and Himplaces to should increase our desire to live as He lived and prompt us allow to identify transform us so that more in our lives that do we notbecome align with thelike willjesus. of God. It s been said that humility is not thinking less of ourselves but less about ourselves (see Rom. 12:3). Background Background Passage: Passage: scripture scripture Passage: Passage: 1 TJ IMO H OTN H13Y: Memory Verses: Verse: 1 TIMOTHY JOHN 14:6 3 : J O HN 1 3 :1 4 In this in actthe of humility de T raining faith andjesus in good But have So ifnothing I, your Lord to doand with irstroyed the notion that Christians are reverent andhave sillywashed myths. your Rather, teaching should lead us to be good Teacher, to be served. We are to take on the train yourself in godliness. servants of Jesus Christ (v. 6) feet, you also ought to wash role of a servant. T I MOT HY s4 :7feet. one1 another B y washing the feet of disciples, Training for godliness hashis benefits in made clear are7-8) to thisjesus life and theitlife to that comewe(vv. serve one another (v. 14). B y washing feetby ofgrace Judas Iscariot, T hough we arethe saved Jesus demonstrated service through faith, we trainthat andour labor to to others should not be contingent cooperate with God to become godly on their people (vv.behavior 9-10) but be fueled by obedience. 33 humility 33 communion with god

35 PREPARING TO TEACH The focal passage for this lesson, John 13:1-17 will probably be familiar to you and most of your class members. As you prepare your lesson, read this passage several times from various translations. Take time to meditate on each verse. Allow God to speak to you through His Word first; then use insights the Holy Spirit reveals to you in your preparation of the lesson. Review the Teaching Tip in this lesson about the washing of feet. Be prepared to explain this custom to your class members if you think any of them may not be familiar with it. Besides the online source indicated in the Teaching Tip, you may have additional reference works in your home or church library that explain the custom of washing feet in biblical times. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS TAKING THE LOW PLACE Welcome class members and guests as they arrive. Explain: We are going to do some word associations. I am going to say a word; then I want you to say the first word that comes to mind. Use the words below. Arrogance Judas Iscariot Humility Once you say the word, write it on the board and record the responses that are given. Many of the class members will respond simultaneously, so just take the time to capture each response and write it on the board. Leave these words on the board for later use in the lesson. Ask: Is humility a virtue? Why or why not? Why should we want to be humble? Field responses and allow time for group discussion. (Some class members may respond with references to Scripture, but at this point, it isn t necessary to include Scripture references in the discussion.) Ask: Can we achieve true humility? Explain. Is it hard to be humble? Again, allow time for group discussion. 34 humility

36 Ask: What is the greatest obstacle to our being humble? Allow time for responses. Refer to this quote which was part of last week s discussion (see Lesson 3 Teaching Plan). Say: Do you remember our discussion last week about this quote from a Christian physician and author from Switzerland, Paul Tournier? There is, however, no human decision that does not spring from an intimate mixture of both good and bad motives. It is impossible ever to disentangle them entirely. 1 Ask: If Paul Tournier is correct, and our motives can never be pure, do you think that the more humble we become, the easier it will be for us to take pride in our humility? What does this say about our need for God s grace? Teaching Option As an option, you may choose to begin the class by summarizing the story of Jack and Rose Marie Miller from the Venture Up Travelogue on s and then discussing these questions: Looking back over your spiritual journey, who has most clearly shown you the beauty of grace-fueled humility and the power of servant love? After several class members have responded, ask: Do you see a common denominator in the humility that each of these persons exhibit? Why do you think they are/were humble? Ask: What is so attractive, inviting, and disarming about genuine vulnerability and humility? Likewise, why do proud, unbroken, controlling leaders easily offend us? FOOTWASHING OR TABLE TURNING? Teacher Tip Some class members may not be familiar with the custom of foot washing in biblical times. Be prepared to briefly explain this custom. A good resource for this custom Washing of Feet at 35 humility

37 Call on a volunteer to read John 13:1-5. Ask: What does verse 3 tell us about Jesus actions in verses 4 and 5? Note that Jesus had confidence in knowing who He was and what His relationship with God the Father was. Explain that He knew His mission and that the Father s purpose for the redemption of mankind required Jesus submission to His Father s will. Say: Jesus displayed a spirit of sacrificial service to those for whom He would die. Direct members to this statement on 42 in the Travelogue: Those who are most secure in the Father s love are most free to serve the Father s purposes. Ask: Why is this statement true? Allow time for responses and discussion. Emphasize that when you are most secure in the Father s love, you have nothing to prove to anyone; you know who you are and whose you are. Comment: God has tasks for His people. Some of the tasks may seem trivial or demeaning; but, when you know you are in God s will, there is purpose in everything you do. Comment: Jesus took the position of a servant when He washed His disciples feet. Did you notice that Jesus even washed Judas feet? Knowing what Judas would soon do, how do you think Jesus felt about washing Judas feet? Say: Look at this question in the Travelogue on 43 and respond to it: How does your relationship with the Father impact your calling to love difficult people and to take the role of a servant? Ask: Without naming names, who are the difficult people we need to love? What makes such persons difficult to love, difficult to serve? Present this rhetorical question: Think about this: we are speaking of others as difficult to love. But do you suppose another Bible study in some other church may be happening right now in which the class members are talking about people like us being difficult to love? (Note: pause briefly in case someone wishes to respond; but be prepared to continue without further comment.) Ask: Now think about this question: Is it ever difficult for God to love you? Be sure to emphasize that God loves all of us, in fact God loves us as much as He loves Jesus: I am in them and 36 humility

38 You are in Me. May they be made completely one, so the world may know You have sent Me and have loved them as You have loved Me (John 17:23). Comment: Jesus crucifixion is evidence of God s love for us. John 3:16 affirms God s love for us. However, some people (Christians and non-christians alike) may think that because of sin in their lives, God may not love them, or at least be very displeased with them. Ask: How did you respond to this question from the Travelogue on 43: What are the biggest obstacles to your resting in the love of Jesus? Because of the personal nature of this question, do not press for oral responses; instead, give time for personal reflection. Call for a volunteer to read John 13:6-11. Ask: What is the difference between a foot washing and a body washing? What was Jesus saying to Peter and the other disciples? Emphasize that Jesus was saying that those who have their sins forgiven are clean; they are in a right relationship with God. Explain that the person who belongs to Jesus only needs a daily cleansing from sins a foot washing since no one will ever reach sinless perfection on earth. Comment: Jesus was emphasizing that this foot washing allowed the disciples to maintain fellowship with God. The complete body wash received through faith in Jesus established their initial relationship with God. [For additional commentary on these verses, see Mathew Henry s Concise Commentary and Gill s Exposition of the Entire Bible at ( john/13-8.htm). Read aloud John 13: Ask: What does it mean that we should wash one another s feet? Allow time for discussion. Stress that the basic idea is that we should serve one another; love one another; look after the well-being of each other. Guide a review of the questions at the end of A Model, Not Just a Moment (Travelogue, pp ). Spend time in silent prayer as directed in the Travelogue. Teaching Option Share this fictional story (obviously not theologically sound, but it makes a good point): St. Peter gave a man a tour of heaven and hell. In hell, the man observed the people gathered around a 37 humility

39 huge banquet table loaded with delicious food. However, the people had forks that were longer than their arms, so they were all starving and miserable. St. Peter then took the man to heaven where he observed people gathered at a great banquet table filled with delicious foods. The people, likewise, had forks longer than their arms. However, they were well fed and happy. The man asked St. Peter, I don t understand the difference. St. Peter replied, Look again, and you ll see that the people in heaven are feeding each other. Encourage discussion about this human attempt to explain the concept of humility. THE WAY OF GRACE AND HUMILITY Enlist a volunteer to read Philippians 2:1-4. Ask the question in the Travelogue on 47: How does God s grace alone make it possible for us to think of others more highly than ourselves, and to serve them with a heart of humility? Say: True humility will always result in total submission to God s will. Listen as I read what Jesus humility did for us as expressed in Philippians 2:5-11: Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death even to death on a cross. For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 38 humility

40 Encourage class members to set aside time to examine themselves by working through the questions at the end of this session on 48 of the Travelogue. Conclude with a prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH Send a text or to class members, reminding them to spend time rereading Philippians 2:1-11 and completing the questions at the end of this session in their Travelogue. Pray for each of your class members that they will humble themselves before God, submitting themselves to His will in every aspect of their lives. Pray the same prayer for yourself. Ask God to reveal anything in your life that keeps you from resting completely in the love of Jesus. 1 D.A. Carson, The Gospel According to John (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 1991), Paul Tournier, The Person Reborn (San Francisco: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1966), humility

41 LESSON 5 jesus The Fullness of God in Human Form TEACHING AIM: To understand the biblical teaching that Jesus is fully human and fully God, two natures in one person. A correct understanding of Christology will strengthen our worship of Jesus and how we relate to Him today. Because Jesus is both fully God and fully man, we worship Him for God alone can save; and we relate to Him for Jesus experienced the full range of our temptations. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: Believers must be fully convinced of Jesus deity and humanity. Jesus humanity allows us to relate to our sympathetic High Priest who understands our suffering and temptation. Jesus deity allows us to relate to Him as sovereign and all-powerful Lord. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verses: P H IL IPPIA NS 2: 1-11 PHILIPPIANS 2 :5-1 1 J O HN 1 :1, 1 4A Jesus was/is in very nature God (v. 6). Jesus emptied Himself (made Himself nothing) of His glorious divine privileges, but not of His deity (v. 7). J esus assumed our humanity and even died a human death (vv. 7-8). J esus has been exalted to the highest place and all will recognize that He is Lord (vv. 9-11). In the beginning was the 40 jesus Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.... The Word became flesh and took up residence among us.

42 PREPARING TO TEACH Our limited human minds may struggle to fully comprehend that Jesus is fully God and fully man. But Scripture affirms this truth. If Jesus were only a man, then we re all in a heap of trouble: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). No mere man could die for the sins of the world. If Jesus were not a man, then this rejects God s Word and witness that The Word became flesh and took up residence among us (John 1:14a). Consider this explanation from Millard J. Erickson s book, Christian Theology (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013, 645): Humans cannot by their own moral effort counter their sin in order to elevate themselves to the level of God. If there is to be fellowship between the two, they have to be united in some other way. This, it is traditionally understood, has been accomplished by the incarnation, in which deity and humanity were united in one person. If, however, Jesus was not really one of us, humanity has not been united with deity and we cannot be saved. For the validity of the work accomplished in Christ s death, or at least its applicability to us as human beings, depends upon the reality of his humanity, just as its efficacy depends upon the genuineness of his deity. As you prepare to teach, carefully read and examine all the Scripture passages in the Venture Up Travelogue on 54 under the two lists Jesus is fully God and Jesus is fully Man. Explore the topic of Jesus deity and humanity further by reading from Erickson s book Christian Theology, Wayne Grudem s book Systematic Theology (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994), or by doing research online at www. mystudybible.com, or Depending on how you choose to use the lists Jesus is fully God and Jesus is fully Man from 54 of the Travelogue, you may want to write each list on a separate tear sheet or photocopy the lists so that learners have adequate space for writing notes as the Scripture passages are read and discussed. 41 jesus

43 TEACHING SUGGESTIONS IT WAS A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY Greet class members and guests as they arrive. Relate the following incident from All in the Family, a classic TV sitcom: In one episode, Archie Bunker and his son-in-law Michael were arguing about Archie s anti-semitism. Michael exclaimed, Well, Jesus was Jewish, to which Archie promptly retorted, Yeah, but only on his mother s side. Ask: Was Archie Bunker s theology sound? Allow time for discussion. Comment: One interpretation of Archie s response is that Archie recognized the humanity of Jesus since Mary was His mother, and that God, being His Father, reflected His deity as the Son of God. Nevertheless, Archie s theology is probably not one we want to emulate. Say: Many religions provide a place for Jesus in their beliefs, but their Jesus is not the real Jesus. Briefly share the following information about what two other religious groups believe about Jesus (or do your own research on the Internet or at the library regarding other religious groups that are prominent in your own community): Muslims believe God created Jesus but they reject Jesus crucifixion. They deny that Jesus is the Son of God. They reject the divinity of Jesus and believe He was a man created by Allah a good man, perhaps even a prophet, but only a man. (See www. josh.org/resources/study-research/answers-to-skeptics-questions/what-are-the-beliefs-of-islam/ for more information on Muslim beliefs.) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons) affirms that Jesus is God s Son but they also hold to the distorted view that Satan and Jesus are brothers. (See www. christianpost.com/news/what-do-mormons-believe-exmormon-speaks-out-part-two-58494/ for more information on Mormons beliefs.) Summarize: If we would worship Jesus in spirit and truth (John 4:24), then we must grow in our understanding of Jesus 42 jesus

44 to truly and truthfully worship Him. The best way to recognize a counterfeit is to know the genuine article. As Jesus asked His first disciples, so He asks us, Who do you say that I am? (Mark 8:29). Begin the study time with prayer. FOUR EXAMPLES OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY OF CHRIST Direct learners to the Travelogue (pp ) and the Four Examples of Mistaken Identity of Christ. Call for four volunteers to read the descriptions: Apollinarianism, Nestorianism, Monophysitism and Arianism. Ask your learners: Which of these four cases of mistaken identity do you see more prevalent in people s belief systems today? Explain your response. Allow time for discussion. Call for learners to complete the two statements in the Travelogue on 53: Finish this statement: If Jesus wasn t fully God and finish this statement: If Jesus wasn t fully man Write their responses on the board. Briefly discuss their responses. Direct attention to the two tear sheets you prepared earlier (or distribute the copies you made). Point out the lists in the Travelogue on 54. Enlist a volunteer to read the Scripture passage after each statement under Jesus is fully God. As each Scripture is read, ask learners to provide a one-word response or short phrase to describe who Jesus is for each passage. Record responses. For example: He created Adam (John 1:3) Creator. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Him (Col. 2:3; John 21:17) Omniscient. Complete the same exercise for Jesus is fully Man. Teacher Tip Some of the items in the Jesus is fully Man list are not conducive to discovering a variety of additional words or phrases that describe the character of Jesus. For example, He was King David s son (Matt.22:45). 43 jesus

45 Such reiterations will suffice as answers. The main purpose is to understand that Scripture teaches that Jesus was fully man. THE FULLNESS OF JESUS EMPTINESS Read aloud Philippians 2:5-11 while class members follow along in their Bibles. Invite learners to note any differences in the text from the translation they are using. Based on the information in the Travelogue on s 55-58, lead the class in discussion of the Focal Passage. Emphasize the following: Note that the word form (v. 6) doesn t imply mere likeness, but the same nature. Jesus didn t merely reveal the image of God; He is the image of the invisible God (Col. 1:15) (Travelogue, p. 56). J esus emptied Himself (v. 7). Reiterate what the Travelogue states: Jesus did not empty Himself of His Deity. Enlist a volunteer to read the paragraph on s of the Travelogue under The Humanity of Jesus. Share this quote from Wayne Grudem: The emptying includes change of role and status, not essential attributes or nature (Grudem, Systematic Theology, 550). R efer to this statement from 57 of the Travelogue: In the fullness of time, He, who has eternally been one with the Father and the Holy Spirit, came into the world to execute the story of redemption, planned before the world began (Eph. 1:3-12; 1 Pet. 1:18-20). Discuss the ramifications of His grace. Inquire: Philippians 2:9-11 says that every knee will bow... and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Does that mean God will save everyone? To aid in understanding these verses, share technical grammatical observations about Philippians 2: Explain that the verb will bow and the verb should confess are both in the subjunctive mode. Say: The first word in verse 10 is the word hina, translated so that, which indicates purpose when used with the subjunctive mode. In their book A Greek Gram- 44 jesus

46 mar of the New Testament (Nashville: Broadman Press, 1979, 103), authors Curtis Vaughan and Virtus Gideon state: In certain types of dependent clauses the subjunctive is the normal mode to use. These are purpose clauses (generally introduced by [hina] or [hopos]).... Also note that A.T. Robertson indicates that both of the verbs bow and confess are in the subjunctive mode which indicates purpose when used with hina. Not perfunctory genuflections whenever the name of Jesus is mentioned, but universal acknowledgement of the majesty and power of Jesus who carries his human name and nature to heaven. (A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament, Volume IV [Nashville: Broadman Press, 1931], ). Summarize: Thus, the purpose of Jesus exaltation is that everyone should bow and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Teacher Option If time permits or if needed for additional clarification, ask learners to read Isaiah 45: Verse 23 ends,... Every knee will bow to Me, every tongue will swear allegiance. However, this does not mean that God will save everyone since verse 24 states, All who are enraged against Him will come to Him and be put to shame. HOW THEN SHALL WE RESPOND? Direct learners to complete the two sentences in the Travelogue on 58: Looking back over this lesson, what comfort do you find in being able to affirm the deity of Jesus? Finish this sentence, Because Jesus is God, I Likewise, what comfort do you find in being able to affirm the humanity of Jesus? Finish this sentence, Because Jesus is man, I 45 jesus

47 Teacher Option If time permits, share the following: Reza Aslan, author of New York Times Best Seller, Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth (New York: Random House, 2013), states that he found Jesus when he was 15 years old at an evangelical youth camp in California. Born in Iran and reared in a family of lukewarm Muslims and exuberant atheists, Aslan pursued academic religious studies in college where he decided that Jesus was only a man, not God. He angrily discarded [his] as if it were a costly forgery (Aslan, xix). Aslan states, Today, I can confidently say that two decades of rigorous academic research into the origin of Christianity has made me a more genuinely committed disciple of Jesus of Nazareth than I ever was of Jesus Christ (Aslan, xix-xx). (NOTE: Aslan refers to the man Jesus as Jesus of Nazareth. He uses the term Jesus Christ as the formulation of Christians who never knew Jesus on earth, who wanted to believe Jesus was divine: God in the flesh.) Ask: Is it possible to be a true follower of Jesus the Man, and reject His divinity? Allow time for discussion. Conclude the study by sharing the lyrics and/or audio of Mark Schultz song Love Has Come. (Lyrics are at lyrics/markschultz/lovehascome.html ; audio at watch?v=eiiaf2ls_us.) Lead in a closing prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH P ray for each class member that he/she will worship God this week with a greater awareness of the divinity and humanity of Jesus. A few days after your study, text or class members and ask them question: How has your week been affected by the knowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord? 46 jesus

48 LESSON LESSON6 1 jesus at spiritual work practices a present reality introduction to spiritual practices To understand how Jesus Christ is active in the world today. To teach the biblical principle of implementing certain spiritual practices and habits into our lives in order to conform us more into the image of Christ. Jesus work continues by the Holy Spirit, in and through His church. This Though we are saved grace how through faiththe alone and not byand anytake self-effort, wein encouraging truthbyshapes we live Christian life our place are called cooperate with God s work in our lives and live out certain biblical God s to story. practices as a means to allow God to make us more like Jesus. TEACHINGAIM:AIM: TEACHING STUDYTHIS THIS WHYWHY STUDY LESSON: LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / DESIRED PRACTICE:OUTCOME / PRACTICE: To understand that Jesus continues to work in a variety of ways in the world today. Jesus departed to be with thetofather, He did not leave with us alone The goalwhen of all the spiritual practices is not win brownie points to fend for ourselves. Heincares deeplytoforhear us and intercedes God, but rather to put us a position from Him andcontinually allow Him for to us. He is active in the world today through the presence of His Spirit, which transform us so that we become more like Jesus. indwells all believers. Additionally He is the head of the church, by which He guides all true ministry carried out in His authority (Matt. 28:18-20). Background Background Passage: Passage: EPH 1 T IMES OTIA NH SY 4: scripture scripture Passage: Passage: Memory Verses: 1 TIMOTHY EPHESIAN 4:6 S 4-: E P HE SI A N S 4 : Christ has united believers Andhave He personally someir T raining in the faithalland in goodinto His But nothing togave do with family: the church. to be apostles, some prophreverent and silly myths. Rather, teaching should lead us to be good train yourself in godliness. ets, some evangelists, some servants of Jesus Christ (v. 6) Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to gift and pastors and teachers, for the 1 T I MOT HY 4 :7 equip the for the of mintraining of the saints in the Training forsaints godliness haswork benefits in work of ministry, to build up thisistry. life and the life to come (vv. 7-8) the body of Christ. T he head of the church is Jesus Christ. Though we are saved by grace through faith, we train and labor to Jesus ensures that the church reaches cooperate with God to become godly maturity and fullness in Him. people (vv. 9-10) 47 jesus at work 47 communion with god

49 PREPARING TO TEACH This lesson calls for the use of many Scriptures. Be sure to read all passages cited during your preparation. You may not use them all but select the ones you feel will best convey the intent of the lesson. Place bookmarks in your Bible or copy and print the Scripture passages, using a website such as Read through your Venture Up Travelogue this week, not only for your personal edification, but also since much of the lesson plan comes directly from its s. This is a powerful lesson, especially in light of the growing persecution of Christians in the world today. Ask God to bless you and your learners as you study how Jesus is working in the world today. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS WWJD OR WIJD? Ask these questions from the Travelogue on 61: What do you envision Jesus doing in heaven right now? What Scriptures would you use to support your answer? Write learners responses on the board. Possible answers should include: J esus is seated at the right hand of God (Ps. 110:1; Mark 16:19; Luke 22:69; Acts 2:32-36; Rom. 8:34; Eph. 1:20-21; Heb. 1:3; 10:12; 1 Pet. 3:22). > Being seated at the right hand of God indicates completion; specifically, completion of His work of redemption: After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high (Heb. 1:3b). > It indicates His authority received from the Father over all creation. See Ephesians 1:20-21; and 1 Peter 3:22. > It also indicates the authority to pour out His Holy Spirit on the church (Acts 2:33). > It does not mean Jesus is sitting idle. In his book Systematic Theology (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994, 619), author 48 jesus at work

50 Wayne Grudem uses this analogy: Just as a human king sits on his royal throne at his accession to the kingship, but then engages in many other activities throughout each day, so Christ sat at the right hand of God as a dramatic evidence of his completion of his redemptive work and his reception of authority over the universe, but he is certainly engaged in other activities in heaven as well. Jesus, at least on one occasion, stood at the right hand of God (Acts 7:56). Enlist a volunteer to read Acts 7: Ask learners why they think Jesus stood when Stephen was martyred. Jesus walks among the seven gold lampstands (Rev. 2:1). Jesus intercedes for us (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 9:24; 1 John 2:1). Teaching Tip If possible, include all the Scriptures cited above in your discussion. However guard your time so that the majority of the discussion can focus on the background passage, Ephesians 4:4-16. WHAT ON EARTH IS JESUS DOING? Say: We read several passages about Jesus being seated at the right hand of God. This action of Jesus directly affects what He is doing on earth now. Ask a volunteer to read aloud the entire background passage, Ephesians 4:4-16. (Note: you will go back over sections of this passage in more detail as the lesson progresses but, for now, read the entire passage.) Direct learners to the Travelogue on 62, beginning with the statement: Paul begins with a quotation from Psalm 68:18. Summarize or read this section in the Travelogue (five paragraphs). Guide a discussion of the information given. Read aloud an excerpt of Peter s sermon on the day of Pentecost found in Acts 2:32-33: God has resurrected this Jesus. We are all witnesses of this. Therefore, since He has been 49 jesus at work

51 exalted to the right hand of God and has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, He has poured out what you both see and hear. Say: As stated in the Travelogue on s 63-64: So the ascension conveys a much bigger story than simply Jesus moving from Point A (earth) to Point B (heaven). The ascension represents an inauguration of a new status for Jesus. The ascension didn t lead to a Christ-deserted world, but to a Christ-filled world. Jesus isn t sitting at the right hand of the Father as a distant, passive observer. No, as we shall see, Jesus is a present, active King advancing His kingdom in and through His church. Ask: Before Jesus crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, what did He tell His disciples about His coming departure? Direct learners to John 14:16-31 and ask a volunteer to read the passage aloud. Ask: Where is Jesus Holy Spirit today? Enlist a volunteer to read Ephesians 4:9-10. Teaching Option If time permits, comment on verse 9 (Jesus ascending and descending). Ralph P. Martin in The Broadman Bible Commentary, Vol. 11 (Nashville: Broadman Press, 1971), , offers a good discussion of this verse with three points of view. The third point of view he presents, which was proposed by G. B. Caird, interprets the ascent as pertaining to Jesus ascension, and the descent as pertaining to the coming of the Holy Spirit to earth at Pentecost, which preserves the chronology of the actual events. (See also discussions in Parallel Commentaries at Concerning verse 10, read this paragraph from the Travelogue on s 64-65: Theologically, Paul uses the concept of filling as a way of expressing the good news of the arrival and advancement of the kingdom of God. Through the life and death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus, all the promises, 50 jesus at work

52 visions, and hopes of Israel s prophets will be fully realized. Jesus fills-to-the-full every promise God has made to be a great Redeemer and cosmic Restorer. For as Paul states, every one of God s promises is Yes in Him (2 Cor. 1:20). State: The coming of God s Holy Spirit after Christ ascended to the right hand of God means that God s plan and purpose for Jesus to fill all things is occurring right now. Paul expresses that in Ephesians 1: Read Ephesians 1: Ask: How does He fill all things today? (through the church) Say: Look again at verses And He put everything under His feet and appointed Him as head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of the One who fills all things in every way. Ask a series of questions to guide the understanding of these verses: Who is head over everything? (Jesus) Who is the body of Christ on earth? (His church) Christ is head over everything for whom? (The church) How is the body of Christ described? ( the fullness of the One who fills all things in every way ) Summarize: Now think about that for a moment. At Pentecost, Jesus came to us in His Holy Spirit, filling believers from that point on. His Holy Spirit fills His church. He is working His dominion through His church on earth. The very power that raised Christ from the dead lives in us (Rom. 8:11), and so we obey Him, our Head, our Authority, to accomplish His purposes on this earth. Jesus said of His church,... and on this rock I will build My church, and the forces of Hades will not overpower it (Matt. 16:18). Remind learners that we are indeed on a mission; we have been given our marching orders. Ask a volunteer to read Ephesians 4: Enlist a volunteer who has a King James Version of the Bible to read Ephesians 4:11-12: And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. 51 jesus at work

53 Say: Verse 11 tells us some of the gifts Jesus gave to His church: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Ask: What is the purpose of these gifts according to verse 12? After responses, note that, based on the commas in this statement, the purposes are to 1) perfect the saints, 2) do the work of the ministry, and 3) edify the body of Christ. Say: Thus, some might think that church staff members are hired to do the work of ministry. But that isn t the case. All Christians are ministers. No commas appear in the original Greek text; other translations do a better job but omit the commas. Thus, these particular gifts expressed (in verse 11) are to be used to perfect or train the saints for the work of ministry. Ask: As Christ works through His Holy Spirit, through individual believers who together constitute His church, His body, what will that look like? Point learners to Ephesians 4:1216. (Some key points are: strengthening the body, growing in unity in the faith, growing in a unity of the knowledge of Jesus, maturing as Jesus fills us.) Remind learners that, as maturing believers, we will not be misled by false teachings, but will be able to stand firm in the truth and love of Christ the power that is above all powers: Christ in us. Quote: The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (1 John 4:4b). Briefly discuss responses to this question from the Travelogue on 67: Someone says, I love Jesus, but I don t really have any heart, energy, or time for the church. How would you respond? CONCLUSION Say: Christians are under attack in this world like never before even in the United States. We need to obey our Lord Jesus Christ, so He can fill us, His people, His church, with His Holy Spirit so that His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. To God be the glory. Close immediately with a prayer. 52 jesus at work

54 FOLLOW THROUGH class members and call attention to this instruction from 68 of the Travelogue: Spend an unrushed season of prayer for your church family, and for its leaders that God would be pleased to deepen a vision of the exalted Jesus, His coming Kingdom, and the day when God s glory will fill the earth, as the waters cover the sea. Spend time in personal prayer this week, submitting yourself to your head, Jesus Christ, in all aspects of your life (at home, work, school, church), asking God to fill you with His Holy Spirit. 53 jesus at work

55 LESSON 7 son of man the servant king To gain a clearer understanding of Jesus most frequent designation of Himself, Son of Man. This term stresses Jesus humanity and His identification with the people of God, His atoning death on their behalf, and the glory He will receive following His suffering. TEACHING AIM: Jesus used the title, Son of Man, more than any other when referring to Himself. It s a title which affirms not only Jesus deity and sovereignty, but also His humanity and suffering. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: To understand that Jesus role as Son of Man points to His humanity and destiny to suffer and die as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45) and His role as the One seated at the right hand of God. Following the Son of Man means we accept His suffering in our place, follow Him in His suffering, and worship Him as exalted Lord. Background Passage: M AT T H EW 26: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: MATTHEW 2 6: MA R K 1 0 :45 SEE PARALLEL IN MARK 14:53-65 Jesus was falsely accused before the Sanhedrin. The High Priest asked Jesus to declare whether or not He was the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus affirmed His identity (v. 64). Jesus applied messianic prophesies from Psalm 110:1 and Daniel 7:13-14 to Himself. Jesus was accused of blasphemy and deserving of death. 54 son of man For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.

56 PREPARING TO TEACH The prosperity gospel is alive and well in the 21st century. It may affect Christians more than we realize, especially in the United States, because Americans have enjoyed unprecedented prosperity that freedom engenders. Spend much time in prayer and meditation on the focal passage and memory verse for this week s study. Suffering is not an idea we like to incorporate into our theology but it is a necessary reality. The Kingdom of God truly turns the world s view of prosperity upside down. Write one of the following prosperity gospel quotes [cited by Hank Hanegraaff, Christianity in Crisis (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1997)] and the person who said it on four separate tear sheets or posters (do not include the reference): Not only is worrying a sin, but being poor is a sin when God promises prosperity! Robert Tilton [Success-N-Life television program (27 December 1990); quoted in Hanegraaff, 186] Give $10 and receive $1,000; give $1,000 and receive $100,000...Give one house and receive one hundred houses or one worth one hundred times as much...give one car and the return would furnish you a lifetime of cars. In short, Mark 10:30 is a very good deal. Gloria Copeland [God s Will is Prosperity (Tulsa, OK: Harrison House, 1978); 54, quoted in Hanegraaff, 199] The Bible declares that the work was done 2,000 years ago. God is not going to heal you now He healed you 2,000 years ago. All you have to do today is receive your healing by faith. Benny Hinn [Rise & Be Healed (Orlando, FL: Celebration Publishers, 1991), 44; quoted in Hanegraaff, 242]... how can you glorify God in your body when it doesn t function right?... What makes you think the Holy Ghost wants to live inside a body where He can t see out through the windows and He can t hear with the ears? What makes you think the Holy Spirit wants to live inside of a physical body where the limbs and the organs and the cells do not function right?... The only eyes that He has that are in the earth realm are the eyes that are in the body. If He can t see out of them then God s gonna be limited.... Frederick K.C. Price [Is God 55 son of man

57 Glorified Through Sickness? (Los Angeles: Crenshaw Christian Center, n.d.) audiotape #FP605; quoted in Hanegraaff, ] TEACHING SUGGESTIONS ABBA, FATHER, OR SUGAR DADDY? Distribute the four tear sheets or posters you prepared of the prosperity gospel quotes from various people. Instruct the person with Robert Tilton s quote to read it aloud. Ask: Is this good theology or bad theology? Why? Are there Scripture passages that support or refute this theology? Continue this same method of questions and discussion for each quote. Call for a volunteer to read Luke 17:19. Ask: Does this Scripture support prosperity theology ( name it and claim it )? Why or why not? Call for another volunteer to read Matthew 13: Ask: Does this Scripture support prosperity theology ( name it and claim it )? Why or why not? Teaching Tip In order to fully understand these two passages, read the entire context (Luke 17:11-19 and Matt. 13:1-58) prior to the class time. Share as needed from your study so that learners will also understand the context for Jesus words. To aid in the discussion of these two passages, share this information with your learners in your own words: Name it and claim it or prosperity theology is not totally devoid of truth. Proper relationship with God requires faith. The Bible presents many instances where faith moved mountains and unbelief resulted in failure. For example: For who heard and rebelled? Wasn t it really all who came out of Egypt under Moses? And who was He provoked with for 40 years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? And who 56 son of man

58 did He swear to that they would not enter His rest, if not those who disobeyed? So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief (Heb. 3:16-19). However, the healings Jesus performed bore witness to His fulfillment of Scripture as the Messiah (see Luke 4:18-21). Prosperity theology uses Bible passages involving faith and misinterprets them so as to apply them for selfish, personal gain. Direct learners to 72 in the Travelogue and lead them in responding to the following questions: When you hear Christians talking about blessings or a blessed life, what are they (and you) most often referring to? Are hardship, weakness, and brokenness ever to be considered gifts or blessings from the Lord? What Scriptures come to mind? Now direct them to respond to the next two questions on 72 in the Travelogue: What are the implications of the sufferings of Jesus for us? Why is it important to have a good theology of suffering? Use some of the following Scripture passages as you discuss responses to the previous questions: Some men were tortured, not accepting release, so that they might gain a better resurrection, and others experienced mockings and scourgings, as well as bonds and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they died by the sword, they wandered about in sheepskins, in goatskins, destitute, afflicted, and mistreated. The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and on mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground. All these were approved through their faith, but they did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, so that they would not be made perfect without us (Heb. 11:35b-40). Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and I am completing in my flesh what is lacking in Christ s afflictions for His body, that is, the church (Col. 1:24). For it has been given to you on Christ s behalf not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, having the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have (Phil. 1:29-30). My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead (Phil. 3:10-11). Say: Compare these Scriptures about suffering for Jesus to 57 son of man

59 Jesus words in John 10:10: I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance. Ask: What does this say about the abundant life Jesus provides? A KING LIKE NONE OTHER Direct learners to find today s focal passage, Matthew 26:57-68, in their Bibles. Enlist a volunteer to read this passage in its entirety. To generate discussion, ask questions such as: Why did the chief priests and Sanhedrin want to put Jesus to death? Why did Jesus keep silent rather than respond to the false accusations against Him? (Note: His silence fulfilled messianic prophecy: Isa. 53:7.) When Caiaphas the high priest asked Jesus if He was the Messiah, the Son of God, why do you think Jesus referred to Himself as the Son of Man?(Jesus did not deny the high priest s command: Tell us if You are the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus quoted Dan. 7:13 as His response to indicate that He was the Messiah, referred to by Daniel as the Son of Man.) Read Daniel 7:13-14 aloud: I continued watching in the night visions, and I saw One like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was escorted before Him. He was given authority to rule, and glory, and a kingdom; so that those of every people, nation, and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will not be destroyed (Dan. 7:13-14). Say: The religious rulers knew exactly what Jesus said: that He was the Messiah, fulfilling Daniel s prophecy. This is why the high priest tore his robes and cried blasphemy! Use additional material in the Travelogue to guide the class in thoroughly examining the focal passage. End the discussion of the focal passage by enlisting a volunteer to read the last three paragraphs under A King Like None Other, (Travelogue, pp ), beginning with Don t miss the magnificence of this moment.... and 58 son of man

60 ending with God suffering in our place. AN EARLY EXPRESSION OF PROSPERITY THEOLOGY Read aloud Mark 10: Ask: What aspects of a prosperity theology do you see in James and John s request of Jesus? (Note: Seats to the right and left of a king s throne were places of honor. James and John still saw Jesus fulfilling His messianic role as having an earthly kingdom. Their request was totally selfish. They did not understand the suffering that Jesus would have to endure to be established on His heavenly throne.) Summarize in your own words: A prosperity theology is nothing new. As human beings we want to avoid suffering and enjoy the good things of this earthly life. When good things happen to us, then, yes, we thank God for these things. But we must realize that Jesus secured our salvation from sin through His suffering, death, and resurrection. As His body on this earth, the church, we endure sufferings that somehow God uses for His kingdom purposes. Our theology must include a place for suffering; otherwise it is an inaccurate theology. CONCLUSION Conclude by reading 1 Peter 4:12-13: Dear friends, don t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you as if something unusual were happening to you. Instead, rejoice as you share in the sufferings of the Messiah, so that you may also rejoice with great joy at the revelation of His glory. Invite learners to pray silently, thanking God for Jesus, the Son of Man. Close the prayer time, thanking God for the privilege to share in His sufferings. FOLLOW THROUGH During your prayer times this week, meditate on the memory verse for this week: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). 59 son of man

61 60 son of man Pray for your learners by name at least once this week, that they will submit themselves to God so that they can enjoy the abundant life that Jesus promises, one that will include suffering for Him.

62 LESSON 8 ministry to others Conduit of His Grace TEACHING AIM: To help learners recognize that Jesus teaching often consisted of calling His followers to minister to others. Obedience to Jesus teaching includes a life dedicated toward ministry to others. As Jesus has loved us and continues to love us, so we are to love one another. This is the heartbeat, measure, and goal of all ministry loving as Jesus loves us. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: To understand that Jesus has called His followers and taught them to minister to others. As the Father sent Jesus into the world, so we are sent into the world to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We are called to be good stewards of all Jesus has entrusted to us and to minister to others in a way that God receives the credit and the glory. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: J O H N 17 JOHN 17 :9-2 0 J O HN 1 7:1 8 Jesus prays for His disciples before He returns to the Father (vv. 9-11). Jesus prays for their protection, unity, and joy (vv ). Jesus prays they will be in the world, not of the world (vv ). Jesus prays that they will minister in the world as He has ministered (vv ). Jesus prays for those who will believe in Him through the ministry of His disciples (v. 20). 61 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. ministry to others

63 PREPARING TO TEACH Begin your preparation with prayer; then read the opening story under Consumers or The Consumed? in Venture Up Travelogue, s As you read and study the lesson in the Travelogue, invite the Holy Spirit to examine your own life and ministry. Prepare cards with one of the Scripture references and the passage itself printed on each card. Use these as a part of your discussion about constructing a definition of ministry. You may choose to add additional Scriptures as well. 1 Chronicles 25:6 M atthew 28:19-20 A cts 1:8 A cts 6:4 A cts 20:24 R omans 15:1-3 R omans 16:1-2 1 Corinthians 12 (Print select portions only.) 1 Corinthians 14:26 E phesians 4:11-16 C olossians 1:28 C olossians 4:2-6 J ames 1:27 1 Peter 4:10 TEACHING SUGGESTIONS CONSUMERS OR THE CONSUMED? Ask: How would you describe the ideal church? What would be some of its characteristics? Allow time for discussion. Record responses on the board as they are mentioned. Say: Look in your Venture Up Travelogue on 81 at the paragraph that begins Though the theme... and follow along as I read: Though the theme of every-member-ministry has always been relevant, it s critical in our day. For ours is the era of ecclesiastical consumerism finding a church that will meet my family s needs and cater to my particular fancies. For 62 ministry to others

64 many Christians, choosing a church family is like standing in the food court of a mall, staring 17 different cuisines in the face. What am I hungry for today? So many choices, so little time. Friends, we re meant to be consumed with God s glory, not consumers of our whims. Ask: Without naming names, do you know persons who choose churches based upon consumerism as described in this paragraph? Should Christians attend or serve in the closest church to where they live regardless of denomination, theology, ministries, staff ministers, music, age-group ministry ministry offerings, and the like? Why or why not? After adequate discussion, follow up with this question: What should determine where you worship with other believers? For those who would be willing to share, How did you choose your current church family? Say: Look at the statement and question on 82 in the Travelogue: Write down a working definition of ministry. How would you respond if someone asked, What is your ministry? Let s put our minds together and come up with a working definition of ministry. Distribute the cards you prepared with Scriptures and references. Call for learners to read each card aloud to determine how it might be helpful in constructing a definition of ministry. Work together as a class to construct a definition of ministry. Write it on the board. Then ask these questions, allowing time for responses and discussion between each question: What determines your ministry? Does your ministry fit in with any of the programs of your church? If your ministry does not fit in with any of the programs of your church, how can you find an outlet for your ministry? Must your ministry operate within a church program? Explain. 63 ministry to others

65 WHILE IT S ALL ABOUT HIM, IT INVOLVES ALL OF US Enlist a volunteer to read the focal passage, John 17:9-20. Give this instructions to the other class members before the volunteer reads: As [name of class member] reads our focal passage, ponder this question from 82 of the Travelogue: As you observe Jesus praying in this passage, what strikes you about His relationship with His Father? Call on the volunteer to read John 17:9-20. Ask: What strikes you about Jesus relationship with His Father? Allow time for responses. (Note: This open-ended question will trigger a variety of responses. Simply allow learners to respond, and as they do, jot down some common themes on a piece of paper.) Then ask class members if they can identify a theme that all or most of the responses share in common. Continue: Now make a list of who Jesus is praying for, and the things for which He prays. What is humbling and encouraging in what you observe? Allow time for responses. Write the responses on the board. Note that Jesus prays for His disciples and not for Himself in these verses. Say: Jesus did pray for Himself earlier in verses 1 and 5, that the Father would glorify Him, but this request for glorification had the purpose that the Son would glorify the Father. Comment: John 17:10 states: Everything I have is Yours, and everything You have is Mine, and I have been glorified in them. What do you think it means that Jesus has been glorified in His disciples? Share the following excerpt from Leon Morris s book, The Gospel According to John in The New International Commentary on the New Testament [(Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1971), 726], to help in your discussion: But now [Jesus] says that He has been glorified in the disciples. This really is very like Jesus attitude to the glory seen in the cross. Outwardly the little group was not distinguished. The men of the day saw nothing about its members to mark them off as eminent in any respect. But, just as the world s values were all wrong concerning the cross, so were the world s values all wrong concern- 64 ministry to others

66 ing the apostolic band. In them the Son of God, none less, was actually glorified. In your discussion of verse 10, share the truth that the redemption of fallen, sinful humans made in the image of God has become part of Jesus glorification. Comment: We are that valuable to Jesus. He delights in our redemption. We are part of His glory. It is no wonder that Jesus prayer to the Father primarily consisted of petitions for His disciples and ultimately all believers (see v. 20). Summarize in your own words: This high priestly prayer, as it is commonly called in John 17, results from the love Jesus has for the Father, His disciples, and all who would believe in Him throughout the remainder of human history. Early in this Upper Room Discourse (John 13-17), Jesus provided His disciples the key characteristic of His followers and the motivation for all true ministry: I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:34-35). Direct class members to consider their response to the following paragraph that you will read from the Travelogue (p. 83): Do you get the picture? Ministry isn t something we simply do for God; it s how we live in communion with our God. He is a missional God, and we are redeemed to be a missional people. Ministry is overflow always. It s not a duty, but a delight; not a job, but a joy; not a badge of honor, but a sign of our discipleship. As the Father loves Jesus, so Jesus ministers to us. As Jesus loves us, so we minister to others. When ministry ceases to be defined and fueled by the love of God it ceases to be ministry. It atrophies to manipulation. Allow time for discussion. Say: Let s look again at the definition of ministry we constructed earlier. Reflecting on the words in Jesus prayer in John 17, and considering the new commandment Jesus gave His disciples in John 13:34-35, do you think we need to edit our definition of ministry? Allow time for response. Make changes to the definition on the board as the class directs. CONCLUSION Reread the focal passage, John 17:9-20. Guide a discussion using 65 ministry to others

67 these questions from the Travelogue beginning on 85: When it comes to ministering to others, what reservations and fears do you have? What is the difference between ministering to someone and fixing someone? Ask: How do Jesus words in John 17:11-16 address the above two questions? Use the discussion in the Travelogue on 87 to lead your class to understand the meaning of Jesus prayer for His followers to be sanctified (John 17:17-20). Direct the learners specifically to these sentences: The Word sanctifies us because the Scriptures, alone, have the authority to define our identity as God s people and our calling as Jesus church. This part of Jesus prayer underscores the fact that church is not optional in God s plan, and the call to ministry isn t for a select few. Say: Before you go to bed tonight, examine this statement from 88 of the Travelogue, spend time with God in prayer and record your response: You are a minister by God s design and delight. Therefore, write out your sense of calling, your ministry passion, and name the spiritual gifts you believe God has given you. Lead in a closing prayer time. FOLLOW THROUGH B e sure you have responded to these statements as you directed learners: You are a minister by God s design and delight. Therefore, write out your sense of calling, your ministry passion, and name the spiritual gifts you believe God has given you. A sk God to guide you and your class in a fuller understanding of what it means to minister as individuals and as a class or church body. C ontact each class member and guest this week, either by phone, , or text. Inquire about the ministries or passions of each person. Commit to pray for them as they pursue God s leading. 66 ministry to others

68 LESSON 9 preaching with authority grace and truth TEACHING AIM: Jesus utmost priority was to preach and teach the good news of God s kingdom and to call people to respond. We are called to respond to Christ s message of salvation and to join with Him in preaching and teaching others to observe all that Christ commanded. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: Preaching and teaching were central to Jesus ministry. Though He was a Master Teacher, the content of His teaching was preeminent. Jesus preached the gospel of the Kingdom. To see that Jesus actions demonstrated His priority of preaching the good news of the Kingdom to people and teaching the message of God with authority. We are called to respond obediently to what Jesus came to preach and teach and to join with Him in proclaiming His good news to our world. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verses: M AT T H EW 4: 23-7: 29 MATTHEW 4: ; 7: MAT T HE W 2 8 : Teaching and preaching the good news of the Kingdom was a priority for Jesus (4:23). Jesus preaching, teaching, and healing ministry resulted in large crowds following Him (4:24-25). In Matthew 5-7, Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount. Afterward, the crowds were amazed because He preached as One with authority, not as one of their scribes (7:28-29). Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. 67 preaching with authority

69 PREPARING TO TEACH Begin your preparation with prayer, asking God through the Holy Spirit to teach you so that you can adequately guide others. This lesson includes an abundance of Scripture passages. Keep in mind that you cannot always complete the entire lesson plan. Class members may have unexpected questions or may need to discuss aspects of the lesson longer than you anticipated. Be prepared to be flexible and focus on the essential aspects of the lesson in the amount of time you have. Prepare and duplicate a copy of these ten Scripture passages and the references addressing Jesus teaching about the kingdom of God (see passages under Jesus, The Quintessential Preacher ): Matthew 4:23; Mark 1:14-15; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 12:28; Matthew 19:24; Matthew 21:31b; Matthew 21:43; Mark 4: 10-11; Mark 9:1; Mark 10: TEACHING SUGGESTIONS PAPA DON T PREACH Ask the following question from the Venture Up Travelogue (p. 91): What are the elements of a great sermon? Record responses on the board in a vertical list. (Elements learners may mention: content, delivery, pertinence, theologically sound doctrine.) Review the list and ask this question about each response: Why is this characteristic important for an effective sermon? Teaching Option After you have written the elements of a great sermon on the board, ask learners to rank them according to importance. This should generate good discussion and involve all learners minds. Don t expect to reach a consensus in the rankings. Remind learners that not all rankings are exactly the same (i.e. College Football Playoff Rankings, the AP Top 25, the USA Today Poll, and the ESPN Power Rankings). 68 preaching with authority

70 Ask (also from the Travelogue, p. 91): Likewise, when does a sermon leave you flat, even upset? Allow time for responses and oral discussion. Enlist a volunteer to read Matthew 7: Ask: What do you think was so different about the way the scribes taught and the way Jesus taught? (One obvious difference is that Jesus taught with authority; therefore, the teachings of the scribes must have lacked authority.) Summarize this example: In Jesus day, the scribes would quote various rabbis. For example, a scribe might say, Rabbi Hillel says this but another scribe would say, Rabbi Shammai interprets it this way. On the other hand, in Jesus Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: You have heard that it was said to our ancestors, Do not murder, and whoever murders will be subject to judgment. But I tell you, everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment (Matt. 5:21-22a). Remind learners that Jesus often taught in this manner (see Matt. 5:27; 33-34; 38-39; and 43-44). Ask: How do you know today whether or not someone is preaching or teaching with God s authority? Allow time for responses. Comment: Ultimately, we must analyze teaching or preaching in light of Scripture, just as the Bereans did with Paul s teachings. Read Acts 17: Direct class members to the Spurgeon quote on 91 in the Travelogue and ask: Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the great British preacher, once said, It s not a sermon til it gets to Jesus. What do you think he meant? In the discussion, ensure that the following points are made: Without Jesus, there is no salvation. Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6). Without Jesus, nothing in life ultimately matters. Jesus said, What will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? (Matt. 16:24). 69 preaching with authority

71 JESUS, THE QUINTESSENTIAL PREACHER Say: Now let s look at the teaching and preaching of Jesus, the One who astonished the crowds because He was teaching them like one who had authority, and not like their scribes (Matt. 7:29). Enlist a volunteer to read Matthew 4: Ask: What are the verbs in these verses? In other words, what was Jesus doing? (going, teaching, preaching, healing) Ask: Verse 24 says... news about Him spread throughout Syria. So they brought to Him all those who were afflicted... (Matt. 4:24). Do you think the people were coming to Jesus just to be healed or do you think they were also intrigued with His teaching and preaching? (Note: This is a subjective question, but in light of Matthew 7:28-29, the people were probably flocking to Him because of His teaching and preaching. They were amazed at the way He taught and they were curious.) Ask (from the Travelogue on p. 92): According to this passage, what was Jesus venue of choice for His earliest preaching and why do you suppose He chose this forum? Comment as needed: Jesus taught and preached in the synagogues in Galilee. He came first to the Jews to fulfill all prophecy concerning the Messiah. This was God s plan when He chose the nation of Israel as His people. A Canaanite woman asked Jesus for mercy because her daughter was tormented by a demon. He replied, I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matt. 15:24). Do recognize, though, that because of her persistent faith, Jesus cured her daughter (see Matt. 15:21-28). Refer to and read the following Scripture passages as time permits: Matthew 10:5-6; John 4:22; Romans 15:8-9; Romans 1:16. Say: Jesus came preaching and teaching first to the Jews, although He never neglected anyone, Samaritan or Gentile, who placed faith in Him. Ask this question from 92 of the Travelogue: What was the main theme of Jesus preaching not just in this text, but also 70 preaching with authority

72 as recorded elsewhere in the Gospels? (the kingdom of God) Distribute the Scripture cards you prepared earlier to enhance understanding and discussion. Ask learners with one of the cards to read their Scripture passage aloud. Jesus was going all over Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people (Matt. 4:23). After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, preaching the good news of God: The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe in the good news. (Mark 1:14-15)! But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you (Matt. 6:33). If I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you (Matt. 12:28). Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God (Matt. 19:24). Jesus said to them, I assure you: Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you! (Matt. 21:31b). Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing its fruit (Matt. 21:43). When He was alone with the Twelve, those who were around Him asked Him about the parables. He answered them, The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to those outside, everything comes in parables... (Mark 4:10-11). Then He said to them, I assure you: There are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God come in power (Mark 9:1). Some people were bringing little children to Him so He might touch them, but His disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw it, He was indignant and said to them, Let the little children come to Me. Don t stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you: Whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. After taking them in His arms, He laid His hands on them and blessed them (Mark 10:13-15). Enlist a volunteer to read these statements from the Travelogue (p. 93): There are three elements of God s kingdom that show up in every season of biblical history (1) God, (2) people, and (3) 71 preaching with authority

73 place. Every kingdom presupposes a king, citizens, and a country; the same is true of God s kingdom. Taken together, we can describe the kingdom of God as God s family, living in God s place, under God s rule. Direct all learners to Matthew 6:9-13 in their Bibles. Read aloud the Model Prayer that Jesus taught His disciples. Ask (from the Travelogue on p. 94): How does the Model Prayer reflect all three aspects of God s kingdom God, people, and place? (One petition in the prayer is that God s kingdom will come; thus, the Father is also King. God s kingdom is already established in heaven, and Jesus instructs His disciples to ask for the Kingdom to come to earth. Thus two places exist for God s kingdom: heaven and earth.) Comment: Look again at the Model Prayer. How is God described? What are some characteristics of God evident in this prayer? [Father (v. 9), King (v. 10), Provider (v. 11), Forgiver (v. 12), and Deliverer (v. 13)] Write responses on the board. Ask (from the Travelogue on p. 94): If a nonbeliever were to ask you for a definition of the kingdom of God, how would you respond with words and images they would likely understand? Allow time for responses. Read the paragraph on 97 in the Travelogue that begins When Jesus announced and ends and will continue until His return. Ask: What aspect of God s kingdom would you most like to see on earth in your lifetime? Write learners response on the board as they speak. CONCLUSION Teaching Tip Practice before class and find the proper mood or tone in which to read the following Scripture passage as you close the lesson. Study this passage in prayer to better understand what Jesus was feeling with the arrest of His cousin John and the ministry that He knew was set before Him. Read with emotion and emphasis. 72 preaching with authority

74 With no introduction, read Matthew 4:12-17 aloud: When He [Jesus] heard that John had been arrested, He withdrew into Galilee. He left Nazareth behind and went to live in Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, along the sea road, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles! The people who live in darkness have seen a great light, and for those living in the shadowland of death, light has dawned. From then on Jesus began to preach, Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near! Pause after reading the last sentence above, say: Turn to s in your Travelogue. You will see Matthew 6:9-13. As followers of the Lord and Savior, Jesus the Messiah, let s pray together the prayer that Jesus taught His disciples to pray. Close by praying in unison: Our Father in heaven, Your name be honored as holy. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.] FOLLOW THROUGH This week, pray the Model Prayer each night. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide you as you focus and meditate on what the Lord knows you need to reap from the prayer each time you pray these words. Text or class members and guests and encourage them to reread the Model Prayer and to pray through the prayer often this week. Ask God to guide you and your class into a fuller understanding of what it means to live as His kingdom people. 73 preaching with authority

75 LESSON 10 sacrifice A Demonstration of Love To illustrate the sacrificial nature of Christ in a way that provides greater insight to His character and an increased desire to emulate His lifestyle. TEACHING AIM: WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: Jesus is the quintessential sacrificial Servant. The great love He demonstrated in laying down His life for us is the foundation and fuel for our life of sacrificial love and servanthood. To gain a deeper understanding of the sacrificial nature of Christ that results in an increased desire to live in a way that serves others rather than self. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: J O H N 10: 1-21 JOHN 10 :7-1 8 J O HN 1 0 :1 1 The backdrop of Jesus Good Shepherd discourse is the obvious negligence He perceived among Jewish religious leadership, especially the Pharisees.1 Jesus risked His life for the sheep, willingly laying down His life for them, in line with the Father s will. It is far from accidental; Jesus death qualifies Him to be the Good Shepherd sacrifice I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

76 PREPARING TO TEACH Jesus sacrifice secured our redemption. It is a unique event. As stated in the Venture Up Travelogue on s : It s imperative that we understand Jesus wasn t primarily modeling a new way of life for us. His sacrifice accomplished something enormous something mere philanthropy and altruism know nothing about. However, as the lesson will indicate, Jesus sacrifice also provides us with an example to follow (see 1 John 3:16-17). Reread the Teaching Aim, Why Study This Lesson, and Desired Outcome. Keep these directives in mind as you teach. Know the main points you need to emphasize before you begin. Unexpected time restriction will often cause you to alter the lesson plan in midstream. Many of the questions posed in the Travelogue are used in this teaching plan. Thoroughly study the Travelogue in your preparation for this study. Pray for each class member by name this week, asking that God will help each person grow in a greater appreciation of Jesus sacrifice, and as a result, that each one will become more committed to God s kingdom. Write each of the following Scripture references on a card and distribute the cards to learners as they arrive: 1 Corinthians 15:17; Romans 3:23-26; Romans 6:21-23; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 2:13-16; Colossians 1:19-20; Hebrews 9:12, 22, 26: 1 Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 1:5b. Ask learners to be prepared to read the Scripture when called upon. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS THE EXCHANGE Read the following true story: In the late 1970s and early 1980s, I taught a 7th grade boys Sunday School class. During the general assembly (remember those?) when all the 7th and 8th grade boys and girls classes met for announcements and for a group introduction to the lesson, the superintendent of the Junior High classes made this statement about the crucifixion of Jesus, which was the focus of the lesson that day: Jesus 75 sacrifice

77 dying on the cross was a tremendous way for God to show us how much He loves us. But if God had wanted to, He could have shown His deep love for us in a different way, rather than sending Jesus to the cross. Well, I couldn t keep silent. I immediately raised my hand and responded. Ask: How would you have responded to this statement about Jesus crucifixion? Would you have said anything? Was the superintendent correct? Explain. Allow time for responses and discussion. Lead the learners in understanding that, without the death and resurrection of Jesus, we have no salvation. Comment: Jesus crucifixion and resurrection did not simply display God s love for us; rather the crucifixion and resurrection accomplished an exchange: Jesus took upon Himself the penalty for our sins. He was our substitute. He endured our hell. He paid the debt that our sin produced: death eternal separation from God. Teacher Tip Review several commentaries on 1 Corinthians 15:17 concerning the necessity of the resurrection at Ask learners with a Scripture card to read aloud their Scriptures, using this order: 1)1 Corinthians 15:17; 2) Romans 3:23-26; 3) Romans 6:21-23; 4) Ephesians 1:7; 5) Ephesians 2:13-16; 6) Colossians 1:19-20; 7) Hebrews 9:12, 22,26: 8) 1 Peter 1:18-19; 9) Revelation 1:5b. Highlight how each of these passages emphasizes the absolute necessity of Jesus crucifixion and resurrection. Encourage learners to examine the context of these passages for more understanding as needed. Say: The necessity of the crucifixion of Jesus indicates the seriousness of sin. Sin always results in death. Since all persons have sinned, Jesus died in our place so we could avoid the penalty of sin. 76 sacrifice

78 Direct learners to 101 in the Travelogue and ask this question: Where do you see the effects of the fall of humankind most clearly evidenced in God s world? Allow time for discussion. If not mentioned in their responses, ask: Is it possible that for each one of us, what really matters are the effects of sin in our own lives? Is it possible that we are sometimes blind to our own sin? Explain your response. Highlight the next question in the Travelogue (p. 101). Ask: What hope do you have that Christians can make any lasting difference in our world and actually overcome evil with good? Allow time for responses. INSPIRATION, PHILANTHROPY, AND ALTRUISM AREN T ENOUGH Read the focal passage, John 10:7-18, while learners follow along in their own Bibles. Ask (question from the Travelogue on p. 102): According to John 10:7-18, why did Jesus come into our world? List several reasons. Include these answers if not given by class members: Jesus came to give us abundant life: I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance (v. 10b). Jesus came to die for us: The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (v. 11). Also verse 15: I lay down My life for the sheep. (See also vv ) Jesus came to die not only for those who believed in Him during His days on earth, but for all persons at all times: But I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen to My voice (v. 16). Ask (questions from the Travelogue on p. 102): Historically, how have we thought about the abundant life (v. 10) Jesus promises? What can followers of Jesus expect an abundance of? Once again, support your answer with biblical texts. In the discussion of these questions, see John 1:4 and John 20:31. Share this quote by Leon Morris in his book, The Gospel 77 sacrifice

79 According to John: Life is one of John s characteristic concepts.... Life in John characteristically refers to eternal life.... Here, however, the term must be taken in its broadest sense. It is only because there is life in the Logos that there is life in anything on earth at all. Life does not exist in its own right. It is not even spoken of as made by or through the Word, but as existing in Him. 1 Summarize: The abundant life Jesus provides involves relationship and fellowship with Him. Jesus didn t come to inspire us and to do good deeds for people. He came to die for us that we might truly live. Only as we grow closer to Jesus through faith and obedience will we live abundantly. True living exists only in Jesus. Jesus is life (See John 14:6). Teacher Tip See Parallel Commentaries on the abundant life at com/john/10-10.htm. Look especially at Gill s Exposition of the Entire Bible. THE ABUNDANT LIFE Direct learners to 103 of the Travelogue and read this quote: If the abundant life is basically a synonym for life in the kingdom of God, it behooves us to become very familiar with the interests of Jesus kingdom. What does our Savior and Lord really care about [according to John 10:7-10]? Allow time for responses. Teaching Tip Note: the phrase, according to John 10:7-10, in brackets above was added to place parameters around the discussion due to time limitations. In John 10:7-10, learners should see that Jesus cares about His sheep coming into His kingdom through Him (since He is the door to His pasture), which is salvation. Jesus provides for His sheep by giving them pasture. He also protects them from those who would destroy His sheep, namely Satan and anyone opposed to Jesus. 78 sacrifice

80 As Jesus prayed to the Father, While I was with them, I was protecting them by Your name that You have given Me. I guarded them and not one of them is lost, except the son of destruction, so that the Scripture may be fulfilled (John 17:12). So also, Jesus prayed, I am not praying that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one (John 17:15). THE WONDER OF JESUS SACRIFICE Ask a volunteer to read John 10: Ask: Who is the wolf in verse 12? Allow time for responses. Add comments based on your study and understanding of these verses (see Parallel Commentaries at Ask: Who in our day would be considered the wolf? Allow time for discussion. Summarize: As we encounter evil in our world today, we need to remember God s Word such as 1 John 3:8b: The Son of God was revealed for this purpose: to destroy the Devil s works. Also 1 John 4:4: You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. THE REACH OF JESUS SACRIFICE Ask a volunteer to read John 10: Direct learners to follow along in the Travelogue (p. 106) as you read the following two paragraphs: The sacrifice Jesus made for us has secured the redemption of sheep well outside the fold of Israel. Jesus sacrifice for sin guarantees that one day He will have a bride from every race, tribe, tongue, and people group. All of history is bound up with this irrepressible promise God has made. Because of Jesus sacrifice on the cross, the Great Commission isn t a job for us to get done, but a story for us to partici- 79 sacrifice

81 pate in. All of history is bound up with Jesus commitment to redeem His bride from the nations. Reread this statement: [T]he Great Commission isn t a job for us to get done, but a story for us to participate in. Ask: Do you agree or disagree? Why? Allow time for responses and discussion. OUR RESPONSE TO JESUS SACRIFICE Say: Jesus sacrifice accomplished redemption. It was much more than just an example; however, the apostle John does indicate that Jesus sacrifice provided us with an example to follow. Read 1 John 3: Say: Verse 17 gave one concrete example of how we can sacrifice for others. However we cannot give away all of our earthly goods and help everyone. As Acts 3:6 records, But Peter said, I don t have silver or gold, but what I have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk! Ask: What are other ways we can lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters? Allow time for responses. THE JOY OF JESUS SACRIFICE Teacher Tip If you normally close your teaching time with prayer requests, receive prayer requests now before proceeding with the suggested prayer time below. Say: As we close in prayer, I will begin by reading Hebrews 12:1-2. After that, I will open up the prayer time for any of you to voice a prayer, thanking God for the sacrifice of Jesus for us, or anything else that the Holy Spirit places on your heart. And then I will close the prayer. Let s bow our heads now as I read: 80 sacrifice

82 Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God s throne. After others pray, close with a short prayer of your own. FOLLOW THROUGH This week, send a card of encouragement to each member of your class. Include a Scripture passage, such as Hebrews 12:1-2. Ask God to guide you and your class to understand how you can participate in the Great Commission story. 1 D.A. Carson, The Gospel According to John (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1991), Andreas J. Kostenberger, Encountering John (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 1999), Leon Morris, The Gospel According to John in The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1971), sacrifice

83 LESSON 11 the trinity Ultimate Community TEACHING AIM: To understand that God eternally exists in one essence, distinguished in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. A basic understanding and acknowledgement of this mystery is foundational to the appropriate worship of God. Through His relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit, Jesus reveals the rich fellowship of the Trinity. By His work on our behalf, Jesus calls us to share in this fellowship. WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: To affirm the mystery that Jesus Christ is the second person of the Trinity, part of the divine Godhead that eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus works in concert with the Father and the Spirit in creation and redemption. We worship God appropriately when we worship Him as our eternal God who exists in three persons. Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: J O H N JOHN 14: C O R I N T HI A N S 1 3 :1 3 Jesus asked the Father to send the Counselor (Holy Spirit) to His followers, to indwell them and mediate Christ s presence to them (vv ). The grace of the Lord Jesus Jesus is in the Father, and they come to indwell those who love and obey Jesus (vv ; 23-24). The Father sends the Holy Spirit in Jesus name to teach and guide believers (vv ). 82 the trinity Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.

84 PREPARING TO TEACH The Trinity is a difficult concept for our human minds to fully grasp, as briefly mentioned in Lesson 1. Though we cannot ever fully grasp the mystery of the Trinity, it is essential that believers affirm its truth. It is imperative to know and affirm that, as the second Person of the Trinity, Jesus is eternal. Jesus is God. As you prepare for guiding this lesson, spend time in prayer and meditation, thinking about the Trinity and the relationship that exists between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Contemplate how nothing exists apart for the eternal God. Can you even imagine God not existing? Is it any wonder the psalmist said The fool says in his heart, God does not exist. ( Ps. 14:1)? Read the Venture Up Travelogue for this study and review the study and teaching plan for Lesson 1 as you meditate on the truth that there is one God (see Deut. 6:4) in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (see John 14:23-26). Teacher Helps To gain a better understanding of the focal passage, visit www. mystudybible.com and enter John 14:15. Scroll down the column on the right to the Video Player Tool and watch the 9-minute video The Spirit of Truth by Dr. Gene Getz. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS OUR RELENTING ACHE TO BELONG Ask: Why do we have a need to belong? Why is being part of a group or community important? Allow time for responses. Say: Our need for relationship arises from the community and relationship that exists between the three persons of the Trinity. Ask: Would some of you be willing to share a time in your life when you felt a great sense of belonging with a group of people, when you felt welcomed, and at home? Allow time for responses. Then ask: What were the key elements that made you 83 the trinity

85 feel accepted as part of the group? Ask: Would anyone be willing to share a time in your life when you felt excluded from a group, when you felt unwelcomed, or estranged? What were the key elements that made you feel excluded? PARTICIPATING IN THE LIFE, JOY, AND LOVE OF THE TRINITY Set the context of the focal passage for this lesson by saying: John occurs during the night before Jesus is crucified. This is the last time Jesus would be with His disciples until after His resurrection. Call on a volunteer to read John 14: Ask (from p. 112 of the Travelogue): How is Jesus love for His disciples revealed in this passage? List several ways. Answers should include: Jesus asked the Father to provide for them another Counselor (v. 16). Jesus told them He would not leave them as orphans (v. 18). Jesus said He is coming to them (v. 18). Jesus promised them life (v. 19). Jesus said He loves those who obey Him and will reveal Himself to them (v. 21). Jesus again promised His love (v. 23). Jesus said He and the Father will live with those who love Him and obey Him (v. 23). Comment: The name Immanuel (God is with us) incorporates most of these examples of how Jesus loves His disciples: He will be with them. He will not leave them alone. He will provide another Comforter. Call for volunteers to read these three additional passages concerning God being with His people: Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:2223; and Joshua 1:5, the trinity

86 Teaching Option If time permits, share this excerpt from Dr. Claudia Black s article Understanding the Pain of Abandonment, from Psychology Today (June 4, 2010) (see the full article at com/blog/the-many-faces-addiction/201006/understanding-thepain-abandonment): When children are raised with chronic loss, without the psychological or physical protection they need and certainly deserve, it is most natural for them to internalize incredible fear. Not receiving the necessary psychological or physical protection equals abandonment... Shame arises from the painful message implied in abandonment: You are not important. You are not of value. Reread the last sentence for emphasis: Shame arises from the painful message implied in abandonment: You are not important. You are not of value. Say: By assuring His disciples that Jesus was not going to abandon them, that He was going to send another Comforter to be with them, and that He and the Father would come and live in them, He was saying, You are important. You are of value. I love you. Direct attention to this question on 112 of the Travelogue: If you only had this Bible text (John 14:15-26), how would you describe the relationship shared between the three members of the Trinity? Allow time for learners to review the passage and for discussion. Include these facts in the discussion: Jesus had confidence in His relationship with the Father (v. 16). Compare 1 John 5:14-15: Now this is the confidence we have before Him: Whenever we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears whatever we ask, we know that we have what we have asked Him for. The presence of the Holy Spirit is the same as Jesus presence (vv ). Note the unity of the Father and the Son and the unity of Jesus and His disciples (v. 20). 85 the trinity

87 86 the trinity The Son and the Father would be with Jesus disciples (v. 23). The Father would send the Holy Spirit to be with Jesus disciples, just as the Father and the Son would be with the disciples (v. 26). Ultimately, these verses express the reality of the Trinity as well as the unity of the one God. Direct the learners to John 14:16. Ask learners with various Bible translations to share what word their Bible uses for the word Counselor (HCSB). Say: The word Counselor in the Greek is transliterated parakletos. Two words combine to make this one word. The first word is para, meaning alongside, as in our word parallel. For example, in gymnastics, one of the men s apparatus is the parallel bars, which consists of two bars that run alongside each other. The other word is from the Greek verb kaleto, which means to call. Thus, the word parakletos means one called alongside. The Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity who is called to live alongside us, counseling us, strengthening us, disciplining us, and encouraging us. Ask: To whom did Jesus promise to send the Holy Spirit? Allow time for responses. (Jesus disciples [those present with Jesus in biblical times], plus followers of Jesus in the present and the future, including those of us who know Him now) Ask: If Jesus disciples were the ones to whom the Holy Spirit would come, how does the focal passage describe such disciples? (True disciples of Jesus are those who love Him, keep His commands, and know His Holy Spirit [vv. 15, 17, 21, 23].) Say: Do you see some common threads running through these verses? Emphasize these facts: God is present with His people through the indwelling of His Holy Spirit. The Father and the Son also make their home in those who love the Lord and who obey Him; thus assuming the unity of the Trinity. Through Jesus, God has made the way for followers of Jesus to be united with God in relationship and fellowship just as God fellowships within Himself as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (This is a difficult, if not impossible concept for our finite

88 minds to grasp; but God is so much more than our minds can fully comprehend.) Enlist someone to reread John 14: Ask: How does Jesus reveal Himself to believers, as He said He would in verse 21? Allow time for responses. Teacher Tip Anticipate a variety of responses to this question. Some have been Christians longer than others and will have had longer to develop their relationship with the Lord. Some are simply more aware of the spiritual realm than others, which probably reflects the various ways Jesus has gifted believers. We are different from one another in many ways. You may even have some who will share visions or other manifestations of God and the spiritual realm they have experienced, which may or may not be real. Be discerning, and filter responses through the sure foundation of God s Word. Enlist someone to reread John 14: Direct learners to the Travelogue (p. 117) and ask this question: Imagine the Trinity coming to make their home in you and with you. What does that feel like? I say, feel because good theology is meant to become enlivened doxology. If the gospel doesn t raise our affections, what will it take? Teacher Tip Much like the earlier question, the responses for this question will be subjective. It is easy for Christians to neglect the fact that when God saved us, He saved us every part of us. God made us with emotions and feelings and our relationship with God through the indwelling of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit should include our emotions. Our love and worship of God should stir our hearts: make us laugh and make us cry, bring us to our knees, and send us walking into the world with the good news. 87 the trinity

89 CONCLUSION Read aloud the memory verse, 2 Corinthians 13:13 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. Ask (from the Travelogue, p. 117): How does this one verse summarize the role of each member of the Trinity in the Christian life? Allow time for responses and discussion. Close in prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH A sk God to show you more clearly that He is with you and how you can become more aware of His presence through faith, obedience, and being filled with His Holy Spirit. Text this Scripture to your class members: And don t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). P ray for your class members that they will be filled with God s Holy Spirit. 88 the trinity

90 LESSON 12 his return living with hope To better understand the event of Jesus Christ s second coming. TEACHING AIM: WHY STUDY THIS LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME / PRACTICE: The good news of the second coming of Jesus is meant to generate holiness and hope, vision and mission in the lives of God s people; not passivity and presumption, resignation and stagnation. To understand the main points and contours of Christ s return and not get lost in speculation and worry. While there is much we cannot be certain about concerning Christ s return, we should focus on that which is abundantly clear in the Bible. As the church we look forward to Jesus return and say together, Come, Lord Jesus! (Rev. 22:20). Background Passage: scripture Passage: Memory Verse: 1 T H ES S A L O N IA N S 4: 13-5:11 1 THESSALONI A N S 5 : T HE SSA L O N I A N S 5 :2 Christians are not to concern themselves with the time and date of Christ s return. For you yourselves know very well that the Day of the Lord will come just like a thief in His return will be personal, unexpected, visible, and glorious.1 the night. We live in eager, hopeful expectation of the LORD s return. A great day of judgment will accompany Jesus return. There will be a bodily resurrection of glorified believers. 89 his return

91 PREPARING TO TEACH Prepare a card with one of the following Scripture references written on each one: Isaiah 13:6,9; Ezekiel 13:5; 30:3; Joel 1:15; 2:1,11,31; 3:14; Amos 5:18,20; Obadiah 15; Zephaniah 1:7,14; Zechariah 14:1; Malachi 4:5; Acts 2:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10. Distribute the cards as learners arrive and instruct them to look up the passage and be prepared to read it aloud when called upon. Research commentaries on the second coming of Christ, such as The Gospel Day, by Charles Ebert ( orr/the_gospel_day_/the_second_coming_of_christ.htm). TEACHING SUGGESTIONS HEIDI, HERSHEY BARS, AND SWITZERLAND Ask: Why do you think God made mountains? Allow time for responses. Then suggest two or three of these reasons: G od made mountains as part of the contributing factor to earth s varying climate: Mountains have a profound influence on not only their local climate and immediate vicinity, but sometimes in areas a thousand or more miles away (Mountain Professor, The Mountain Environment and Effects on World Climate at www. mountainprofessor.com/mountain-environment.html). G od made mountains because He loves us and wants us to enjoy a good cup of coffee as witnessed by the fact that two optimal climates exist for Arabica coffee beans according to 1. Subtropical areas between feet above sea level; and 2. Areas near the equator between feet above sea level. (Note: Be prepared to receive both amens and groans from this comment.) Say: We may not know all the reasons why God made mountains, but mountains have played a major role in mankind s response to life and in God s revelation of Himself 90 his return

92 to mankind. Share some of the following items to support that statement: God tested Abraham by telling him to sacrifice Isaac on a mountain (Gen. 22:2). God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on a mountain (Ex. 19:20; 32:15). Israel s enemies worshiped other gods on mountains and high places (Deut. 12:2). Jesus ascended from earth to heaven from Mt. Olivet, and will return in the same manner (Acts 1:9-12). (For additional biblical mountain information, see the article Mountains in the ATS Bible Dictionary at encyclopedia/m/mountains.htm.) Say: Significantly for our study today, John s vision of the New Jerusalem that God will establish at the second coming of Jesus occurred from atop a great and high mountain. Read Revelation 21:9-11: Then one of the seven angels, who had held the seven bowls filled with the seven last plagues, came and spoke with me: Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb. He then carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain and showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, arrayed with God s glory. Her radiance was like a very precious stone, like a jasper stone, bright as crystal. Say: In fact, Micah prophesied that, In the last days the mountain of the Lord s house will be established at the top of the mountains and will be raised above the hills (Micah 4:1). Ask (from p. 121 of the Venture Up Travelogue): How often do you think about Christ s return, and what are you most looking forward to about His return? Allow time for responses. THIS IS THE DAY Read the following synopsis from Once while Francis of Assisi was hoeing his garden, he was asked, What would you do if you were suddenly told 91 his return

93 you would die at sunset today? He replied, I would finish hoeing my garden (Moody Monthly, April 1990, p. 76). Ask: What does this tell you about Francis of Assisi? Allow time for responses. Comment: One implication from this story is that if we are living each day according to God s will, it matters not whether it s our last day or if we will live many more decades; we simply need to do what God has purposed in our hearts to do. Teacher Tip The next several paragraphs below require lecture. While it is important to involve learners in discussion, sometimes information must be presented in lecture format. Many of the learners may not be familiar with the background for Psalm 118 but this will help them gain a deeper insight into Jesus experience during the Lord s Supper with His disciples. Say: These words of Francis of Assisi reflect much the same idea as presented in the Travelogue on 121 about Martin Luther. We need to live today (this day) in light of That Day (the day of the coming of the LORD). However, we need to look at one important aspect of Psalm 118:24, quoted in this section of the Travelogue. Then read Psalm 118:24. Say: Psalm 118 is the last psalm of the Hallel, which consists of Psalms These psalms, expressing thanksgiving for God s redemption, are chanted or sung on several Jewish holy days, including Passover, and significantly, the Seder or Passover meal ( isource/judaica/ejud_0002_0008_0_08255.html). Listen to these verses from Matthew 26:26-30: As they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, Take and eat it; this is My body. Then He took a cup, and after giving thanks, He gave it to them and said, Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood that establishes the covenant: it is shed 92 his return

94 for many for the forgiveness of sins. But I tell you, from this moment I will not drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it in a new way in My Father s kingdom with you. After singing psalms, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Continue: Very likely the psalms Jesus and His disciples sung were Psalms (see reference at the word psalms in Matthew 26:30). Imagine the emotions Jesus experienced as He sang Psalm 118 with His disciples, knowing He would soon die on the cross. The words Jesus sang from Psalm 118 included the following words: I called to the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and put me in a spacious place. The Lord is for me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? (vv. 5-6). I will not die, but I will live (v. 17a). The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone (v. 22). The Lord is God and has given us light. Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar (v. 27). Think how significantly and faithfully Jesus declared on that particular day, the day He laid down His life for us on the cross: This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it (v. 24). Pause a few moments and let learners silently reflect on the significance of what you ve shared. Allow time for questions or comments. THE DAY OF THE LORD Enlist a volunteer to read the focal passage, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. Then direct learners specifically to verses 1-3. Ask (question on p. 122 of the Travelogue): Why does Paul assume believers in Thessalonica don t need additional information about Jesus return? Use the three bulleted points from the Travelogue, p. 123, to lead in this discussion. 93 his return

95 Call for the learners who have the cards you distributed earlier to read their assigned passages aloud in this order: Isaiah 13:6,9; Ezekiel 13:5; 30:3; Joel 1:15; 2:1,11,31; 3:14; Amos 5:18,20; Obadiah 15; Zephaniah 1:7,14; Zechariah 14:1; Malachi 4:5; Acts 2:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10. Instruct class members to listen for the phrase the Day of the Lord. Ask: As you heard those Scripture passages read about the Day of the Lord, what images came to mind? Allow time for responses. Ask: In one or two words, how would you describe the Day of the Lord? (judgment, destruction, God s vengeance, and so forth) In the discussion of verses 1-3, bring attention to the fact that the Day of the Lord will come when no one is expecting it, and that those who do not know Jesus cannot escape it. SONS OF THE DAY Read 1 Thessalonians 5:4-8 (previously read in the context of the entire focal passage). Ask: Since it is unbelievers (those who belong to the night) who will be destroyed (Isa. 13:6,9) in the coming Day of the Lord, why does Paul say in 1 Thessalonians 5 that believers must stay awake, be serious (v. 6), and put on faith, love and hope (v. 8)? Us the material in the Travelogue on s as an aid in leading discussion of this question. Call attention to these additional Scripture passages to help in the discussion: He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves (Col. 1:13). What should we say then? Should we continue in sin so that grace may multiply? Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised 94 his return

96 from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in a new way of life. For if we have been joined with Him in the likeness of His death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of His resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him in order that sin s dominion over the body may be abolished, so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, since a person who has died is freed from sin s claims (Rom. 6:1-7). Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith. Examine yourselves. Or do you yourselves not recognize that Jesus Christ is in you? unless you fail the test (2 Cor. 13:15). THE LORD OF THE DAY Read 1 Thessalonians 5:9-1l (previously read in the context of the entire focal passage). Say or paraphrase in your own words: These verses provide us with more material to answer the previous question about why Christians must stay awake. Since we are not appointed for wrath, we need to encourage one another, building our assurance that we are God s people, saved by the grace of God through Christ. Since we are kingdom people, we should act like kingdom people. With the assurance that God keeps His word, we can face the coming Day of the Lord with glad expectation, saying in concert with the apostle John, Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! (Rev. 22:20). CONCLUSION Close the study time in prayer. Remind learners that no one knows the time when Jesus will return for His Bride so we must be ready. FOLLOW THROUGH Pray daily for yourself and those in the class, that you will grow in assurance of your salvation in Jesus Christ and that your lives will more closely reflect to the world that you are 95 his return

97 part of the Bride for whom Jesus is coming. Follow up with any class members or guests who may have additional questions in regard to this week s study aken from Secret Church 13: Heaven, Hell, and the End of the World Study Guide, pp. T ( ). his return

98 LESSON LESSON13 1 spiritual jesus practices worthy of worship introduction to spiritual practices affirm Jesusprinciple is coming and we need to bespiritual ready. Part of our and preparatoto teach thethat biblical ofagain implementing certain practices tion is to worship His divine attributes revealed in creation and through habits into our lives in order to conform us more into the image of Christ. others, knowing that all truth is God s truth. Thus God will make us into a royal priesthood. we are saved by grace through faith alone and not by any self-effort, we Though are called cooperate with as God work in ourinlives and live outand certain biblicalis to To seetoand know Jesus, Hes is revealed the Scriptures the gospel, practices as a means to allow God to make us more like Jesus. be compelled into a life of worship a lifestyle of declaring Jesus worth and serving Him with wholehearted gladness. TEACHINGAIM:AIM: TEACHING WHYWHYSTUDY THIS STUDY THIS LESSON: LESSON: DESIRED OUTCOME // DESIRED OUTCOME PRACTICE: PRACTICE: The goal of all the spiritual practices is not to win brownie points with To affirm that to Jesus comingtoagain acknowledge God, but rather putisusindeed in a position hear and fromtohim and allow that Himthose to of us who follow Him will strive to worship God every day as we experitransform us so that we become more like Jesus. ence Him in all activities of life. Background Background Passage: Passage: REV 1 T IMELOTATHIOY N 4 1: 1-8 scripture scripture Passage: Passage: Memory Verses: 1 TIMOTHY REVELAT I 4:6 O N -1 :410 8 R E VE L AT I O N 1 :5 B- 6 T raining John greeted in the the faithseven and in churches good on ButTo have Him nothing who loves to douswith and irreverent sillyfrom myths. teaching behalf of should God and leadjesus us to(vv. be good 4-5). has setand us free ourrather, sins train yourself in godliness. servants Jesus Christ 6) king (v. 5). by His blood, and made us a Jesus isofprophet, priest(v.and 1 Tpriests I MOT HY to4 :7His God Believers are a royal priesthood (v. 6). kingdom, Training for godliness has benefits in Jesus is coming again (v.7). and Father the glory and this life and the life to come (vv. 7-8) G od is the Alpha and Omega, the dominion are His forever great I AM who is coming, the Aland ever. Amen. Though we are saved by grace mighty (v. 8). through faith, we train and labor to cooperate with God to become godly people (vv. 9-10) 97 jesus 97 communion with god

99 PREPARING TO TEACH Spend time in earnest prayer and preparation for guiding this final study in the series. Work through the Venture Up Travelogue and respond personally to each of the questions. Review online commentaries as needed to insure your understanding of Revelation 1:1-8 ( or www. mystudybible.com). Nothing interprets Scripture better than Scripture. Prior to the class time, prepare cards or strips of paper with the following Scripture references written on them: Acts 17:16-34; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Matthew 16:24-26; Revelation 22:13; Hebrews 1:1-2; Hebrew 7: 26-27; Revelation 19:16; Romans 6:16-23; Exodus 19:5-6; Hebrews 4:16; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; Romans 5:10-11; 1 Peter 2:5; Romans 12:1. Distribute these to class members as they arrive, asking them to read their assigned passage aloud when called upon. Create a bumper sticker that looks like the Coexist sticker described in Finding Our Home and Heart in Jesus. Be prepared to display it at the appropriate time during the study. TEACHING SUGGESTIONS FINDING OUR VOICE AND PLACE IN THE WORLD Greet members and guests as they arrive. Begin the session by making this statement: All truth is God s truth. Ask: Do you agree? Why or why not? Allow time for responses and discussion. Choose one or more of these quotes from Arthur F. Holmes, All Truth is God s Truth (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1977) to fuel the discussion: Truth is not relative but absolute (p. 32). The implication here is that if truth comes from a non-christian or secular source, it is still truth. We do not affirm that everything men take to be true is God s truth (p. 8). The world can be wrong about some things, but the world can also be right about some things. The God who makes the sun to shine on the just and the unjust 98 jesus

100 alike graciously works through the processes of nature and history to preserve in sinful men a degree of wisdom and creativity and civil righteousness, and thereby he accomplishes his present purposes in society. Whatever men do that is right and good they do by the goodness of God, for every good gift comes from above. Whatever men know they know by the grace of God, for all truth is God s truth wherever it is found (p. 23). Teaching Option As time permits, lead a brief discussion of Acts 17:16-34, looking specifically at Acts 17: Call for the learner with this Scripture to read it aloud. Emphasize that Paul did not attack their polytheism, but rather affirmed they knew that another God existed whom they worshiped in ignorance. Some would soon believe in the one, true God, thereby eventually correcting the error in their polytheistic beliefs (see v.34). Direct learners to s of their Travelogues. Say: Hopefully you have read your Travelogue this week where the writer describes the influence The Beatles had on his spiritual journey with God. Read these select statements from 130 of the Travelogue: My initial encounter with Beatlemania was an elixir of joy; a quickening of the image of God that lay dormant in my soul. He also referred to an experience at a Paul McCartney concert: On a cold winter night in Atlanta, my heart was strangely warmed as God used a Paul McCartney concert, of all things, to remind me of His tenacious pursuit, dogged faithfulness, and irrepressible kindness throughout my life. After a seven-encore-song crescendo, I left the concert smiling, inside and out. All You Need Is Love, indeed the love God lavishes on us fully and freely in Jesus. Ask: Do you find it unusual that God would use The Beatles to open someone s eyes about the things of God? Why or why not? Allow time for responses and discussion. Ask: Why do you think God sometimes speaks in nonconventional or unexpected ways? Allow time for responses and discussion. 99 jesus

101 Ask these questions from 131 in the Travelogue: W ho has contributed to the soundtrack of your life? Whose music and songs have helped you find your voice and place in the world? Bach, Beethoven, The Beach Boys, Benny Goodman, B. B. King, Beck, Bob Dylan, Bill Gaither, or someone else? W hat other art forms has God used to stir your heart, ignite your imagination, fuel your longings, or expose your restlessness? Think of movies, novels, poetry, musicals, painters, etc. I n what ways has God used these artists and art forms to point you to Jesus? FINDING OUR HOME AND HEART IN JESUS Ask: If all truth is God s truth, why can t Christians simply slap a Coexist bumper sticker on their cars and let it go at that? Display the bumper sticker you created and clarify the design of the Coexist bumper sticker: The C is designed as the moon and star of Islam; the o as the hippie peace symbol; the x as the star of David; either the dot over the i or the s designed as the Chinese philosophical yin-yang symbol; and the t as the cross of Christianity ( oe i ). During the discussion of this emblem, call for the learners with John 14:6, Acts 4:12, and Matthew 16:24-26 to read the verses aloud. Emphasize that only the Christian faith acknowledges Jesus is the Son of God, the Second Person of the Trinity. State that other religions may contain some elements of truth, but as the quote from Arthur F. Holmes said, We do not affirm that everything men take to be true is God s truth. Stress: If you get the truth about Jesus wrong, nothing else ultimately matters. Enlist a volunteer to read Revelation 1:4-8. Direct learners to respond to the instruction and question on 132 of the Travelogue: List every title and description of Jesus you can find in this opening section of the last book in the Bible. What does John want us to remember about Jesus? 100 jesus

102 Guide a discussion of the responses recorded. Include these as needed: The One who is, who was, and who is coming (description actually pertains to God the Father; see comments below on the last three bulleted items) The faithful witness The firstborn from the dead The ruler of the kings of the earth He who loves us He who has set us free from our sins by His blood He who has made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father He to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever He who is coming again in the clouds He who still bears the marks of the crucifixion Teacher Tip Note that in verse 8, these last three designations (listed below) are spoken by God the Father about Himself. However, see Revelation 22:13, which appears to be Jesus applying the designation of Alpha and Omega to Himself. Robert H. Mounce, in The Book of Revelation (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1977, 393), states, In 1:8 and 21:16 it was God who identified himself as the Alpha and the Omega. The risen Christ now applies the title to himself. Yes, Jesus is God. Jesus is Lord. At the same time, Jesus spoke of God as His God and Father in Revelation 1:5b-6a: To Him who loves us and has set us free from our sins by His blood, and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father... These distinctions and similarities express the mystery of the Trinity: One God in three Persons. Our human minds cannot fully comprehend the majesty of God. The Alpha and Omega The One who is, who was, and who is coming (repeat) The Almighty 101 jesus

103 A REVELATION OF JESUS, BY JESUS Direct learners to 133 of the Travelogue and read this quote: John [in the book of Revelation] looks back over the entire history of redemption, and draws from nearly 250 Old Testament references or allusions. Reread Revelation 1:4-5a. Comment: John is saying that, Jesus fulfills the three main offices God provided for His people in the Old Covenant Prophet, Priest, and King (Travelogue, p. 133). Use information in the Travelogue on s under the subheadings Jesus Is the Prophet, Priest, and King; Jesus Is the Faithful Witness; Jesus Is the Firstborn from the Dead; and Jesus Is the Ruler of the Kings of the Earth to lead learners in understanding Jesus fulfillment as Prophet, Priest and King. Use these key summary points as needed: As the faithful witness, Jesus fulfills the role of prophet. Prophets were the mouthpieces of God. God spoke through His prophets, Thus says the Lord... Call for the volunteer to read Hebrews 1:1-2. As the firstborn from the dead, Jesus fulfills the role of priest. Jesus death was the ultimate sacrifice, offered up by the ultimate priest, Himself. Call for the volunteer to read Hebrew 7: As the ruler of the kings of the earth, Jesus fulfills the role of king. Call for the volunteer to read Revelation 19:16. WE ARE A LOVED AND CALLED PEOPLE Read Revelation 1:5b-6. Ask: How does sin enslave us? Allow time for responses and discussion. Use these points in the discussion as needed: B eing a slave means there is a master. Ask: What kind of master is sin? What kind of master is God? Allow time for responses. Write these responses on the board. 102 jesus

104 Call for the volunteer to read Romans 6:16-23, then share these answers to the questions above: 1. Sin is a master that brings shame and death. 2. Obedience to the LORD brings sanctification, righteousness, and eternal life. Say: Having been freed from slavery to sin, God has now, through the blood of Christ, made us not simply citizens of His kingdom, but priests in His kingdom; thus fulfilling Exodus 19:5-6. Call on the volunteer to read Exodus 19:5-6. Ask: In what way are we priests in God s kingdom? Allow time for responses. Explain: In the Old Testament, priests ministered to the LORD in the Temple. Thus, they had access to God, and through the sacrificial system, intervened for the people before God. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus as our great High Priest, all believers now have direct access to the throne of grace. Call for the volunteer to read Hebrews 4:16. Emphasize that this new position in Christ also carries responsibility. Say: As priests, we have an obligation to be ministers of reconciliation since Jesus reconciled us to God through His sacrificial death. Call for the volunteers to read 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 and Romans 5: Call for the volunteers to read 1 Peter 2:5 and Romans 12:1. Discuss how we are priests in God s kingdom. WE LIVE AND LOVE WITH HOPE Read Revelation 1:7-8. Instruct learners to work together to construct a one- or twosentence summary of today s focal passage, Revelation 1:4-8. Record suggestions on the board. Collaborate, edit, and discuss until the majority comes to a consensus about the summary statement. CONCLUSION Summarize, using your own words and the summary statement the class constructed: Regardless of the specifics of Jesus second coming, one thing we know for sure: Jesus is coming again. He s coming for His bride, the church, for whom He died. And 103 jesus

105 He will bring us into His kingdom as a royal priesthood who will serve and rule with Him (see Rev. 22:3, 5). Therefore, we need to live faithfully in this world that God created (Ps. 37:3), watching God reveal Himself through His creation (Rom. 1:20) and through others, since all are made in His image. He is preparing us now for eternity. We need to stay alert and work while it is day. Praise be to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Close with a time of silent prayer. FOLLOW THROUGH P ray that class members will worship God every day as they experience Him through the daily activities of life. C ontact via phone or those members who may have not been attending on a regular basis. Let them know they are missed, and ask if they have any prayer requests. Let them know that a new study will begin next week. 104 jesus

106 title WHAT IS THE GOSPEL? The Bible calls it the good news, the message about Jesus Christ, the kingdom of God and salvation. The gospel message is a summary of God s work through Jesus, at His initiative, and our How response to that work, which leads to salvation. To help us understand what God has accomplished through Jesus to save us, the gospel message always includes four key elements: God: God rules. The Bible tells us God created everything, including you and me, and He is in charge of everything. Genesis 1:1; Revelation 4:11; Colossians 1:16-17 Man: Man sinned. We all choose to disobey God. The Bible calls this sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God s punishment of death. Romans 3:23; 6:23 Christ: God gave Jesus. God sent Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from the punishment we deserve. It s something we, as sinners, could never earn on our own. Jesus alone saves us. John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9 Response: We respond in repentance and faith. Believe in your heart that Jesus alone saves you through what He s already done on the cross. Repent, turning from self and sin to Jesus. Tell God and others that your faith is in Jesus. John 14:6; Romans 10:9-13 WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS? When you respond to the gospel of Jesus Christ, everything changes. Your next steps of faith include: Professing your Faith When something this life-changing happens, your first response is to tell others. You declare your faith in Jesus by telling the story of your salvation with others. Most people begin by sharing their decision to follow Jesus with their closest family and friends and with a pastor or minister. Baptism Baptism is a powerful outward symbol of the inner change that has happened. It is a lived out picture of the death of your sin and your new life with Christ. Join the Church, a Body of Believers following Jesus Together Jesus designed the church for every one of His followers to have a place to grow in what they believe, a place to belong to a community of faith and a place to become more like Him journaling

107 how is your church making disciples? Implementing a comprehensive discipleship strategy across multiple age groups and multiple settings can be a challenge. Messaging, promotion, teaching, and planning all require many hours and dollars, both of which are often scarce resources. Enter the JourneyOn Network a complete set of tools and traits, maps and markers, designed to help you move toward Christ-likeness. Learn more or join the network! JourneyOnDiscipleship.com JourneyOn Foundations... a key resource supporting the JourneyOn Network of Churches Following the same format as the current series, JourneyOn Foundations is building out with a focus on seven core foundations supporting each individual s journey toward a Christ-centered life. These foundations include 1. Life of Christ/Christology 2. Spiritual Practices 3. Biblical Studies 4. Theological Foundations 5. Healthy Relationships 6. Missions and Evangelism 7. Spiritual Leadership Learn more or order JourneyOn Foundations Curriculum at EquippedChurch.es