Faithful Praise. Focus on Ephesians 1:3 14 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
|
|
- Jason Horton
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 January 3, 2016 Second Sunday after Christmas Day Jer. 31:7 14 or Sir. 24:1 12 Ps. 147:12 20 or Wis. 10:15 21 Eph. 1:3 14 John 1:(1 9,) Goal for the Session Acknowledging our identity as the people of God, adults will ponder ways to live a faithful life of praise. PREPARING FOR THE SESSION Focus on Ephesians 1:3 14 WHAT is important to know? From Exegetical Perspective, Rollin A. Ramsaran We are made for praise and worship of the creator God. It is both destiny and gift, the very order of things. We come to understand ourselves and our place in God s plan and purpose through the very knowledge of it. God openly reveals wisdom and things that previously have been hidden. Our destiny is marked by the seal of the promised Holy Spirit (v. 13) such that we have a pledge of our inheritance (v. 14) we will be God s people. This passage reminds us of God s goodness and faithfulness, motivating our hearts to return gratitude, praise, loyalty, and obedience for the cosmic plan of God in Christ. WHERE is God in these words? From Theological Perspective, John W. Coakley For Calvin, the fact of God s own good pleasure (v. 5) alone as the efficient cause of our salvation, implies specifically that the Lord expressly sets aside all merit, does not look at what we are, and is not reconciled to us by any personal worth. The repeated references to grace make this text a great expression of the doctrine of salvation as absolutely free, rather than in any sense conditional. The author of Ephesians also says, however, that God made the choice in order for us to be holy and blameless, which clearly implies the importance of human action, and attempts to make sense of God s otherwise mysterious action. SO WHAT does this mean for our lives? From Pastoral Perspective, Kenneth L. Sehested This prologue testifies that a new order is unfolding; that the very foundations of creation are inscribed with our names; that our mistakes do not make us a mistake in God s eyes, for indeed we have been adopted out of the penurious life of the conquered and into the inheritance of the Beloved s. Ground is being laid here with details to follow: that the disordered life of fleshliness results in creating children of wrath (2:3), whereas grace and peace characterize Christ s ekklēsia; that the dividing wall of hostility (2:14) is destined for collapse, resulting in the welcome of all, whether far off or near (2:17), turning strangers and aliens into citizens (2:19) in the empire of God. NOW WHAT is God s word calling us to do? From Homiletical Perspective, David L. Bartlett Ephesians gives us one strophe on election, one on redemption, and one on eschatological fulfillment three stanzas on what God is doing in Jesus Christ. Then in the fourth strophe the author turns to the believers, the church, us. What does life look like in the light of election, redemption, and final hope? First, believers are incorporated into Christ s own life through adoption. Second, believers live for the praise of Christ s glory. Ephesians enjoins what it displays: faithful life is the life of praise. Third, believers live by the word of truth, believing in the Gospel. Fourth, believers are marked by the Holy Spirit. 1
2 FOCUS SCRIPTURE Ephesians 1:3 14 Focus on Your Teaching Mention the word praise and there will likely be a variety of responses. For many, the word immediately brings to mind praise services, with worshipers, hands raised in the air, singing repetitive praise refrains. For some, this is a way to tap more deeply into the Spirit s power. Others dismiss it as shallow, appealing only to emotion. Both responses miss the mark with respect to a more comprehensive understanding of the kind of praise for which we were created and to which we should aspire. Adults may appreciate exploring a life of praise that truly glorifies God. By your Spirit, O God, shape my preparation, that I may guide others to truly glorify you. Amen. YOU WILL NEED Bibles copies of Resource Sheet 1 copies of Resource Sheet 2 newsprint or board marker copies of Resource Sheet 1 for January 10, 2016 For Responding option 1: Bibles option 2: two newsprint sheets, colored markers, self-stick notes in two colors, pens, writing paper option 3: hymnals with the hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness LEADING THE SESSION GATHERING Before the session, for option 2 in Responding, print one of the following on each of two newsprint sheets: Why Praise? Praise to What Purpose? Welcome participants. Encourage those who were present for the last session to report on whether they incorporated Psalm 148 into their time of devotion, and if so, how. In the light of reflections from the past week, invite volunteers to fill in the blanks of this sentence from the closing: Today, I am praising God for, and I will help to make its voice of praise heard by. Tell the group that in this session, they will consider the questions of why and to what purpose we are moved to praise God. Say this prayer or one of your choosing: Gracious God, we offer thanks and praise for the gift of Jesus Christ your son. Guide our reflections today, that we may discern ever more clearly how you would have us live. Amen. EXPLORING Point out that after last week s consideration of a psalm of praise, this session continues an exploration of the role of praise. But it moves to the New Testament, to the letter to the Ephesians. Invite adults to open their Bibles to the beginning of the letter. Note that though the letter is ascribed to Paul and may indeed have been written by him, it may also have been written, as was the custom of the time, in the name of Paul and consistent with his theology, as a gesture of respect. 2
3 Explain that there is general agreement among scholars that the letter was probably not addressed to the church at Ephesus. Rather, it seems to be addressed to a specifically Gentile audience and is designed to instruct them as to what it means to be a Christian. So, unlike many epistles (letters), such as Corinthians, which are addressed to a particular group, we could consider this letter to be addressed to contemporary readers. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term strophe, used in the Now What? excerpt, is a structural division of a poem containing stanzas of varying linelength, especially an ode or free verse poem. Try to resist debating the concept of election. The earliest Christians were not concerned with arguing the tension between determinism and free will. They affirmed both that God is sovereign of all and that we receive God s goodness through faith. EASY PREP Invite the group to turn to the focus scripture, Ephesians 1:3 14. Ask someone to read aloud the first part of verse 3a. Point out that the words with which this passage begins are a Jewish blessing formula. Distribute Resource Sheet 1 (Focus on Ephesians 1:3 14) and Resource Sheet 2 (A Benediction of Praise). Form three small groups or pairs and assign each group one of the following: verses 3 6; verses 7 8; verses Ask each group to read their assigned verses and the What? and Where? excerpts and discuss the question on Resource Sheet 2 relevant to their verses. Return to the total group and invite each group or pair to read their verses aloud and briefly report on their verses and their responses to the questions posed on the resource sheet. Ask them to name one or two ideas that particularly struck them or about which they have questions. Read the entire focus scripture aloud, with each person reading one verse. To transition to Responding, have a volunteer read verses aloud. Then invite the group to read the Now What? excerpt silently. Ask: P In the light of election, redemption, and final hope, what are the four marks of the Christian life? RESPONDING Choose one or more of these activities depending on the length of your session. 1. A Poetic Reading In reading this benediction from Ephesians as a poem, adults can experience its power and affirm its role in the faithful life in evoking gratitude for God s grace. Assign to volunteer readers the following verses: verses 3 6; verses 7 8; verses 8 10; verses Begin by reading the blessing (3a) in unison. Then have volunteers read their assigned verses, with the group responding together with the affirmation, Praise God! after each volunteer reads. Encourage adults to use this passage in their devotional time this week. They can read each portion of the Scripture, then reflect on its implications for living a faithful life of praise and finally say aloud the words, Praise God! 3
4 2. The Why and Purpose of Praise By revisiting the questions from the opening activity why and to what purpose are we moved to praise God? adults can gain a deeper understanding of the role of praise in living a faithful life. Distribute self-stick notes in two colors to participants. On one color, invite them to print a reason they praise God. On the other, ask them to print to what purpose they offer praise: what is their place in God s plan? Invite them to come forward one at a time to attach their responses to the sheet labeled Why?, reading aloud their response. When everyone has added their response, invite the group to say together, Praise God! Repeat with their responses to the other sheet s question. Ask adults to jot down the words Praise: Why and to What Purpose? on sheets of paper, and take it home for reflection. As they go about the tasks of daily living, encourage them to think about how and in what ways those tasks might contribute to God s plan. 3. Hymn of Praise In singing a hymn that expresses praise for God s faithfulness, mercy, and grace, adults are reminded of why they are called to praise. Distribute hymnals with the hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness and ask adults to first read over the stanzas and refrain silently. Then ask them to name words or phrases that have special significance for them. Note that stanza 2 expresses the understanding they explored in the last session that the whole of creation joins in praise. Sing the hymn together. Invite the group to use a phrase that resonates for them as a breath prayer during the week, repeating the first part of that phrase on the inhale and the last part on the exhale. They can use the prayer to frame their responses to actions they may take during the week as a reminder that their lives are meant to praise God and contribute to God s plan. CLOSING Recall for the group the sentence from last week s closing for which they supplied words to complete it. Ask them now to complete this sentence: Today, I am praising God for, and in response I will seek to live a faithful life of praise by to participate in the completion of God s intention for the world by. Pray the following: For your extravagant grace, revealed in the gift of your son Jesus Christ, O God, we give you thanks and praise. By the seal of your Holy Spirit, give us insight into how we fit into your plan for the world. Amen. Distribute copies of Resource Sheet 1 for January 10, 2016, or it to the participants during the week. Encourage participants to read the focus scripture and Resource Sheet 1 before the next session. 4
5 January 3, 2016 Adult Resource Sheet 1 Focus on Ephesians 1:3 14 WHAT is important to know? From Exegetical Perspective, Rollin A. Ramsaran We are made for praise and worship of the creator God. It is both destiny and gift, the very order of things. We come to understand ourselves and our place in God s plan and purpose through the very knowledge of it. God openly reveals wisdom and things that previously have been hidden. Our destiny is marked by the seal of the promised Holy Spirit (v. 13) such that we have a pledge of our inheritance (v. 14) we will be God s people. This passage reminds us of God s goodness and faithfulness, motivating our hearts to return gratitude, praise, loyalty, and obedience for the cosmic plan of God in Christ. WHERE is God in these words? From Theological Perspective, John W. Coakley For Calvin, the fact of God s own good pleasure (v. 5) alone as the efficient cause of our salvation, implies specifically that the Lord expressly sets aside all merit, does not look at what we are, and is not reconciled to us by any personal worth. The repeated references to grace make this text a great expression of the doctrine of salvation as absolutely free, rather than in any sense conditional. The author of Ephesians also says, however, that God made the choice in order for us to be holy and blameless, which clearly implies the importance of human action, and attempts to make sense of God s otherwise mysterious action. SO WHAT does this mean for our lives? From Pastoral Perspective, Kenneth L. Sehested This prologue testifies that a new order is unfolding; that the very foundations of creation are inscribed with our names; that our mistakes do not make us a mistake in God s eyes, for indeed we have been adopted out of the penurious life of the conquered and into the inheritance of the Beloved s. Ground is being laid here with details to follow: that the disordered life of fleshliness results in creating children of wrath (2:3), whereas grace and peace characterize Christ s ekklēsia; that the dividing wall of hostility (2:14) is destined for collapse, resulting in the welcome of all, whether far off or near (2:17), turning strangers and aliens into citizens (2:19) in the empire of God. NOW WHAT is God s word calling us to do? From Homiletical Perspective, David L. Bartlett Ephesians gives us one strophe on election, one on redemption, and one on eschatological fulfillment three stanzas on what God is doing in Jesus Christ. Then in the fourth strophe the author turns to the believers, the church, us. What does life look like in the light of election, redemption, and final hope? First, believers are incorporated into Christ s own life through adoption. Second, believers live for the praise of Christ s glory. Ephesians enjoins what it displays: faithful life is the life of praise. Third, believers live by the word of truth, believing in the Gospel. Fourth, believers are marked by the Holy Spirit Westminster John Knox Press
6 January 3, 2016 Adult Resource Sheet 2 A Benediction of Praise The book of Ephesians opens with this benediction. Following its beginning with the words Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 1:3 14 moves through stanzas that drive the reader to praise God. Praising God for Election Read verses 3 6 and the What? and Where? excerpts. than in any way conditional. What is your response? How, in your opinion, should Christians live their lives in response to this free gift? Praising God for Redemption Read verses 7 8 and the What? and Where? excerpts. strengthen our identity? and extravagant grace? Praising Final Hope (Eschatological Fulfillment) Read verses 8 10 and the What? and Where? excerpts. Godself? the choice in order for us to be holy and blameless, implying the importance of human action. What do you think are the implications for the completion of God s plan? 2015 Westminster John Knox Press
Holy Encounter, New Response
Semicontinuous Exod. 3:1-15 Ps. 105:1 6, 23 26, 45b Complementary Jer. 15:15 21 Ps. 26:1 8 Rom. 12:9 21 Matt. 16:21 28 September 3, 2017 Proper 17 Holy Encounter, Goal for the Session Hearing about Moses
More informationFacing Jesus. Focus on Matthew 25:31 46 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
November 23, 2014 Proper 29 Semicontinuous Ezek. 34:11 16, 20 24 Ps. 100 Complementary Ezek. 34:11 16, 20 24 Ps. 95:1 7a Eph. 1:15 23 Matt. 25:31 46 Goal for the Session Prompted by Jesus parable of the
More informationBlessed to be a Blessing
January 29, 2017 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Mic. 6:1 8 Ps. 15 1 Cor. 1:18 31 Matt. 5:1 12 Blessed to be a Blessing Goal for the Session Adults will explore the promises of the Beatitudes and affirm
More informationUnity in the Body of Christ
August 5, 2018 Proper 13 Semicontinuous 2 Sam. 11:26 12:13a Ps. 51:1 12 Complementary Exod. 16:2 4, 9 15 Ps. 78:23 29 Eph. 4:1 16 John 6:24 35 Unity in the Goal for the Session Adults will reflect on the
More informationTransforming Grace. Focus on Ephesians 2:1 10. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 11, 2018 Fourth Sunday in Lent Num. 21:4 9 Ps. 107:1 3, 17 22 Eph. 2:1 10 John 3:14 21 Transforming Grace Goal for the Session Adults will discover and articulate how God s gift of grace described
More informationLiberating Words. Focus on Luke 4:21 30 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January 31, 2016 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Jer. 1:4 10 Ps. 71:1 6 1 Cor. 13:1 13 Luke 4:21 30 Goal for the Session Learning from Jesus rejection by his hometown, adults will consider ways to respond
More informationThe Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth
July 8, 2018 Proper 9 Semicontinuous 2 Sam. 5:1 5, 9 10 Ps. 48 Complementary Ezek. 2:1 5 Ps. 123 2 Cor. 12:2 10 Mark 6:1 13 The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth Goal for the Session Adults will explore the
More informationChoosing Trust. Focus on Luke 4:1 13. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 10, 2019 First Sunday in Lent Deut. 26:1 11 Ps. 91:1 2, 9 16 Rom. 10:8b 13 Luke 4:1 13 Goal for the Session In light of Jesus choices in the wilderness temptations, adults will reflect on choices
More informationInseparable Love. Focus on Romans 8: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
July 27, 2014 Proper 12 Semicontinuous Gen. 29:15 28 Ps. 105:1 11, 45b Complementary 1 Kgs. 3:5 12 Ps. 119:129 136 Rom. 8:26 39 Matt. 13:31 33, 44 52 Inseparable Love Goal for the Session Adults will examine
More informationFear Not! Focus on Matthew 25: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
November 13, 2011 proper 28 Judg. 4:1 7 Ps. 123 1 Thess. 5:1 11 Matt. 25:14 30 Fear Not! Goal for the Session Adults will consider how to use their talents as they wait for the realm of God. n PREPARING
More informationOrder Out of Chaos. Focus on Genesis 1:1 5. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January 7, 2018 Baptism of the Lord Gen. 1:1 5 Ps. 29 Acts 19:1 7 Mark 1:4 11 Order Out of Chaos Goal for the Session Adults will reflect on God bringing order out of chaos both in the natural world and
More informationSupreme Prime Minister Jesus
November 25, 2012 Reign of Christ Sunday Semicontinuous 2 Sam. 23:1 7 Ps. 132:1 12, (13 18) Complementary Dan. 7:9 10, 13 14 Ps. 93 Rev. 1:4b 8 John 18:33 37 Supreme Prime Minister Jesus Goal for the Session
More informationPaul s Witness in Athens
May 21, 2017 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 17:22 31 Ps. 66:8 20 1 Pet. 3:13 22 John 14:15 21 Paul s Witness in Athens Goal for the Session Adults will examine how Paul addressed the religious aspects of
More informationGrowing Fruitful Disciples
July 13, 2014 Proper 10 Semicontinuous Gen. 25:19 34 Ps. 119:105 112 Complementary Isa. 55:10 13 Ps. 65:(1 8), 9 13 Rom. 8:1 11 Matt. 13:1 9, 18 23 Growing Fruitful Disciples Goal for the Session Through
More informationWho Is Jesus? Focus on Matthew 17:1 9. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
February 26, 2017 Transfiguration Sunday Exod. 24:12 18 Ps. 2 2 Pet. 1:16 21 Matt. 17:1 9 Who Is Jesus? Goal for the Session In the transfiguration of Christ, adults will explore how Jesus is the Christ
More informationDoing Sabbath. Focus on Mark 2:23 3:6. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
June 3, 2018 Proper 4 Semicontinuous 1 Sam. 3:1 10 (11 20) Ps. 139:1 6, 13 18 Complementary Deut. 5:12 15 Ps. 81:1 10 2 Cor. 4:5 12 Mark 2:23 3:6 Scripture Goal for the Session n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION
More informationWilderness Testing. Focus on Luke 4:1 13 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
February 14, 2016 First Sunday in Lent Deut. 26:1 11 Ps. 91:1 2, 9 16 Rom. 10:8b 13 Luke 4:1 13 Wilderness Testing Goal for the Session Heeding Jesus response to his testing in the wilderness, adults will
More informationLoving the Least of These
November 26, 2017 Reign of Christ Sunday Semicontinuous Ezek. 34:11 16, 20 24 Ps. 100 Complementary Ezek. 34:11 16, 20 24 Ps. 95:1 7a Eph. 1:15 23 Matt. 25:31 46 Loving the Least of These Goal for the
More informationTaking on the Yoke of Jesus
July 9, 2017 Proper 9 Semicontinuous Gen. 24:34 38, 42 49, 58 67 Ps. 45:10 17 Complementary Zech. 9:9 12 Ps. 145:8 14 Rom. 7:15 25a Matt. 11:16 19, 25 30 Taking on the Goal for the Session Adults will
More informationThe Two Great Commandments
October 29, 2017 Proper 25 Semicontinuous Deut. 34:1 12 Ps. 90:1 6, 13 17 Complementary Lev. 19:1 2, 15 18 Ps. 1 1 Thess. 2:1 8 Matthew 22:34 46 The Two Great Goal for the Session In studying the two great
More informationPraise the Lord! Focus on Psalm 111. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January 28, 2018 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Deut. 18:15 20 Ps. 111 1 Cor. 8:1 13 Mark 1:21 28 Praise the Lord! Goal for the Session Adults will consider the ways recounting God s faithfulness to
More informationI Shall Not Want. Focus on Psalm 23. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
May 7, 2017 Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 2:42 47 Ps. 23 1 Pet. 2:19 25 John 10:1 10 I Shall Not Want Goal for the Session After reflecting on God as shepherd and host, participants will explore the implications
More informationOff the Map. Focus on Micah 5:2 5a PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
December 20, 2015 Fourth Sunday of Advent Mic. 5:2 5a Luke 1:46b 55 or Ps. 80:1 7 Heb. 10:5 10 Luke 1:39 45 (46 55) Goal for the Session Adults will explore Micah s notion of power expressed in service
More informationFrom Hosanna to Crucify Him
March 25, 2018 Palm/Passion Sunday Isa. 50:4 9a Ps. 31:9 16 Phil. 2:5 11 Mark 11:1 11; 15:1 39 From Hosanna Goal for the Session Adults will keep vigil as witnesses to Jesus entry, suffering, and death
More informationCovenant Living. Focus on Exodus 20:1 17. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 4, 2018 Third Sunday in Lent Exod. 20:1 17 Ps. 19 1 Cor. 1:18 25 John 2:13 22 Covenant Living Goal for the Session Adults will remember with Israel at Sinai the God we serve and the disciplines of
More informationShout Praises! Focus on Psalm 111. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January 28, 2018 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Deut. 18:15 20 Ps. 111 1 Cor. 8:1 13 Mark 1:21 28 Shout Praises! Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders will use the acrostic Psalm 111 to articulate
More informationGod s Life-Giving Truth
November 22, 2015 Reign of Christ Sunday Semicontinuous 2 Sam. 23:1 7 Ps. 132:1 12 (13 18) Complementary Dan. 7:9 10, 13 14 Ps. 93 Rev. 1:4b 8 John 18:33 37 Goal for the Session Adults will explore Jesus
More informationFaith in Discouraging Times
October 2, 2016 Proper 22 Scripture Semicontinuous Scripture Lam. 1:1 6 Lam. 3:19 26 Scripture Scripture Complementary Hab. 1:1 4; 2:1 4 Ps. 37:1 9 2 Tim. 1:1 14 Luke 17:5 10 Goal for the Session Adults
More informationDinner s Ready! Get Dressed!
October 15, 2017 Proper 23 Semicontinuous Exod. 32:1 14 Ps. 106:1 6, 19 23 Complementary Isa. 25:1 9 Ps. 23 Phil. 4:1 9 Matt. 22:1 14 Dinner s Ready! Goal for the Session Adults will consider their response
More informationFrom Hosanna to Crucify Him
APRIL 1, 2012 Palm/Passion Sunday Isa. 50:4 9a Ps. 31:9 16 Phil. 2:5 11 Mark 11:1 11; 15:1 39 From Hosanna to Crucify Him Goal for the Session Adults will keep vigil as witnesses to Jesus entry, suffering,
More informationAbundant Life. Focus on John 2:1 11 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January 17, 2016 Second Sunday after the Epiphany Isa. 62:1 5 Ps. 36:5 10 1 Cor. 12:1 11 John 2:1 11 Abundant Life Goal for the Session Through exploring Jesus sign of changing water into wine, adults
More informationCostly Discipleship. Focus on Mark 12:38 44 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
November 8, 2015 Proper 27 Semicontinuous Ruth 3:1 5; 4:13 17 Ps. 127 Complementary 1 Kgs. 17:8 16 Ps. 146 Heb. 9:24 28 Mark 12:38 44 Costly Discipleship Goal for the Session Adults will explore Jesus
More informationJeremiah s Message. Focus on Jeremiah 23:1 6 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
November 20, 2016 Reign of Christ Sunday Scripture Semicontinuous Scripture Jer. 23:1 6 Scripture Luke 1:68 79 Scripture Complementary Jer. 23:1 6 Ps. 46 Col. 1:11 20 Luke 23:33 43 Jeremiah s Message Goal
More informationFaith Works. Focus on James 1:17 27 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
August 30, 2015 Proper 17 Semicontinuous Song 2:8 13 Ps. 45:1 2, 6 9 Complementary Deut. 4:1 2, 6 9 Ps. 15 Jas. 1:17 27 Mark 7:1 8, 14 15, 21 23 Goal for the Session Adults will articulate personal and
More informationResurrection Hope. Focus on Matthew 28:1 10. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
April 16, 2017 Easter Day Acts 10:34 43 Ps. 118:1 2, 14 24 Col. 3:1 4 John 20:1 18 Matt. 28:1 10 Goal for the Session Discovering the empty tomb with the women, adults will plan how to make the resurrection
More informationHearing and Doing. Focus on James 1: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
September 2, 2018 Proper 17 Semicontinuous Song 2:8 13 Ps. 45:1 2, 6 9 Complementary Deut. 4:1 2, 6 9 Ps. 15 Jas. 1:17 27 Mark 7:1 8, 14 15, 21 23 Hearing and Doing Goal for the Session Youth will build
More informationBlindness and Renewed Vision
October 28, 2018 Proper 25 Semicontinuous Job 42:1 6, 10 17 Ps. 34:1 8, (19 22) Complementary Jer. 31:7 9 Ps. 126 Heb. 7:23 28 Mark 10:46 52 Goal for the Session Youth will, with Bartimaeus, reflect on
More informationForget It! Focus on Jeremiah 31: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 18, 2018 Fifth Sunday in Lent Jer. 31:31 34 Ps. 51:1 12 Heb. 5:5 10 John 12:20 33 Forget It! Goal for the Session Children will explore the joy of having their sins forgotten by God, as promised
More informationDiscerning God s Call
January 14, 2018 Second Sunday after the Epiphany 1 Sam. 3:1 10 (11 20) Ps. 139:1 6, 13 18 1 Cor. 6:12 20 John 1:43 51 Goal for the Session In light of Samuel s call, adults will ponder the ways we discern
More informationWritten on the Heart. Focus on Jeremiah 31:31 34 PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 22, 2015 Fifth Sunday in Lent Scripture Jer. 31:31 34 Scripture Ps. 51:1 12 or Scripture Ps. 119:9 16 Scripture Heb. 5:5 10 John 12:20 33 Written on the Heart Goal for the Session Adults will explore
More informationStudy Guide for GodViews: The Convictions That Drive Us and Divide Us
Study Guide for GodViews: The Convictions That Drive Us and Divide Us By Jack Haberer Study Guide by Carol Wehrheim Introduction This study guide for GodViews: The Convictions That Drive Us and Divide
More informationSaul s Conversion. Focus on Acts 9:1 20. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
May 5, 019 Third Sunday of Easter Acts 9:1 0 Ps. 30 Rev. 5:11 14 John 1:1 19 Goal for the Session Tweens will recognize how God worked through Ananias to welcome Saul and imagine how God can work through
More informationPaul's Prison Epistles
Paul's Prison Epistles Study Guide LESSON THREE PAUL AND THE EPHESIANS For videos, manuscripts, and other Lesson resources, 3: Paul visit and Third the Ephesians Millennium Ministries at thirdmill.org.
More informationPaul Gives Thanks. Focus on 1 Thessalonians 1:1 10. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
October 22, 2017 Proper 24 Semicontinuous Exod. 33:12 23 Ps. 99 Complementary Isa. 45:1 7 Ps. 96:1 9, (10 13) 1 Thess. 1:1 10 Matt. 22:15 22 Goal for the Session Children, following Paul s example, will
More informationLEAD IT: COLLEGE AGE
JUDE GOD S REWARDS PROGRAM SESSION 2 LEAD IT: COLLEGE AGE GOALS As students experience this session in Jude, they will... Explore the spiritual condition of Jude s readers and uncover the rewards of belonging
More informationGOD S DEFINING PURPOSE
GOD S DEFINING PURPOSE Text: 1 Pet.2:9 Main Bible Reading: Eph.1: 1-6 Sermon Outline: Introduction to the book of Ephesians Overview of the book of Ephesians Three dimensional blessings The concept of
More informationPeter Welcomes All. Focus on Acts 10: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
May 6, 2018 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 10:44 48 Ps. 98 1 John 5:1 6 John 15:9 17 Goal for the Session Children will discover God s welcome to everyone everywhere in the story of the Gentiles receiving
More informationLove So Amazing. Focus on Isaiah 55:1 9. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
March 24, 2019 Third Sunday in Lent Isa. 55:1 9 Ps. 63:1 8 1 Cor. 10:1 13 Luke 13:1 9 Goal for the Session Tweens will dig into Isaiah s words and describe the nature of our generous God. n PREPARING FOR
More informationIntroduction 5. What Must I Do to Be Saved? 9. Saved by Grace... Isn t That Too Good to Be True? 17
CONTENTS Introduction 5 What Must I Do to Be Saved? 9 1 Romans 3:9-31 Saved by Grace... Isn t That Too Good to Be True? 17 2 Romans 5:1-11 If What I Do Doesn t Save Me, Does It Matter How I Live? 25 3
More informationBiblical Concept of Predestination
Biblical Concept of Predestination By Elder Michael Ivey The purpose of this essay is to identify and briefly consider the set of ideas, or aspects that together compose the concept of predestinate presented
More informationProclaim the Good News
June 18, 2017 Proper 6 Semicontinuous Gen. 18:1 15, (21:1 7) Ps. 116:1 2, 12 19 Complementary Ex. 19:2 8a Ps. 100 Rom. 5:1 8 Matt. 9:35 10:8, (9 23) Proclaim the Good News Goal for the Session Adults will
More informationSpirit Led. Focus on Acts 8: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
Fifth Sunday of Easter cts 8:26 40 Ps. 22:25 31 1 John 4:7 21 John 15:1 8 Goal for the Session dults will celebrate and follow the example of those, like Philip, whom God s Spirit uses to open Scripture
More informationCalled by Name. Focus on Exodus 3:1 15. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
September 3, 2017 Proper 17 Semicontinuous Exod. 3:1-15 Ps. 105:1 6, 23 26, 45b Complementary Jer. 15:15 21 Ps. 26:1 8 Rom. 12:9 21 Matt. 16:21 28 Goal for the Session After hearing the story of Moses
More informationCalling Cohort Session Guide
Calling Cohort Session Guide Introduction This guide is meant to help guide a Calling Cohort the small group of people gathered around an individual who is discerning whether or not they are being called
More informationContents The Apostles Creed
Contents The Apostles Creed Introduction to Being Reformed: Faith Seeking Understanding... 3 Introduction to The Apostles Creed... 4 The Apostles Creed Traditional Version... 5 The Apostles Creed Contemporary
More information3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.
PRISON EPISTLES BIBLE STUDY EPHESIANS 1:1-14 I am, NAME a(n) BY THE WILL OF GOD. 3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly
More informationWAMT: New Testament Survey. Paul and His Letters
WAMT: New Testament Survey Paul and His Letters Paul s Epistles (Letters) Letters to Churches Romans 1 & 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 & 2 Thessalonians Pastoral Epistles (letters
More informationJesus and the Rich Man
October 14, 2018 Proper 23 Semicontinuous Job 23:1 9, 16 17 Ps. 22:1 15 Complementary Amos 5:6 7, 10 15 Ps. 90:12 17 Heb. 4:12 16 Mark 10:17 31 Jesus and the Rich Man Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders
More informationThe Widow s Offering. Focus on Mark 12: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
November 11, 2018 Proper 27 Semicontinuous Ruth 3:1 5; 4:13 17 Ps. 127 Complementary 1 Kgs. 17:8 16 Ps. 146 Heb. 9:24 28 Mark 12:38 44 The Widow s Offering Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders
More informationTHE BIG READ (10) Jesus in Ephesians
THE BIG READ (10) Jesus in Ephesians A. Introduction 1. Every book of the Bible has one dominating theme Jesus is the Christ. Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told
More informationWHEN RACES COLLIDE SESSION 1. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting
SESSION 1 WHEN RACES COLLIDE The Point Our relationship with Christ should be reflected in our unity with one another. The Passage Ephesians 2:11-22 The Bible Meets Life For most of us, our source of information
More informationPhilip and the Ethiopian
April 29, 2018 Fifth Sunday of Easter Acts 8:26 40 Ps. 22:25 31 1 John 4:7 21 John 15:1 8 Philip and the Ethiopian Goal for the Session Children will grapple with the ways God is at work in the story of
More informationRelease for Captives. Focus on Isaiah 61:1 4, n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
December 17, 2017 Third Sunday of Advent Isa. 61:1 4, 8 11 Ps. 126 1 Thess. 5:16 24 John 1:6 8, 19 28 Release for Captives Goal for the Session Adults will explore salvation as a quality of life here and
More informationPaul s Letters to Church Leaders
Unit 31 Session 5 Use Week of: Paul s Letters to Church Leaders 1 Timothy 4:11-16; 2 Timothy 4:1-8; Titus 2:11-14 MAIN POINT: Paul encouraged church leaders to teach God s Word. KEY PASSAGE: Galatians
More informationThe Mystery of God. 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
The Mystery of God 1 Corinthians 2:6-16 It is God s wisdom (2:6) It is secret & hidden wisdom (2:7) It is eternal (2:7) It is wisdom prepared for those who love God (2:9) It stems from the deep things
More informationCompassionate Welcome
July 2, 2017 Proper 8 Semicontinuous Gen. 22:1 14 Ps. 13 Complementary Jer. 28:5 9 Ps. 89:1 4, 15 18 Rom. 6:12 23 Matt. 10:40 42 Compassionate Welcome Goal for the Session Children will explore Jesus teaching
More informationJesus the Good Shepherd
April 22, 2018 Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 4:5 12 Ps. 23 1 John 3:16 24 John 10:11 18 Jesus the Good Shepherd Goal for the Session Children will listen to Jesus words about being a good shepherd and grow
More informationSECURE IN HIM. Ephesians 1: Steven J. Cole. September 2, Steven J. Cole, 2007
Pastor Steven J. Cole Flagstaff Christian Fellowship 123 S. Beaver Street Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 www.fcfonline.org SECURE IN HIM Ephesians 1:13-14 By Steven J. Cole September 2, 2007 Steven J. Cole,
More informationThe Things That Make for Peace
The Things That Make for Peace Leaders Guide: Bible Study Session 4 A Season of Title: Extending Peace So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them Texts: Hebrews 13:1 3, Romans 12:13 21 Goal for
More informationHoly Time. Focus on Mark 2:23 3:6. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
June 3, 2018 Proper 4 Semicontinuous 1 Sam. 3:1 10 (11 20) Ps. 139:1 6, 13 18 Complementary Deut. 5:12 15; Ps. 81:1 10 2 Cor. 4:5 12 Mark 2:23 3:6 Scripture Holy Time Goal for the Session n PREPARING FOR
More informationHear and Do. Focus on James 1: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
September 2, 2018 Proper 17 Semicontinuous Song 2:8 13 Ps. 45:1 2, 6 9 Complementary Deut. 4:1 2, 6 9 Ps. 15 Jas. 1:17 27 Mark 7:1 8, 14 15, 21 23 Goal for the Session Children will hear God s word in
More informationGod s Messengers. Focus on Luke 1: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
December 24, 2017 Fourth Sunday of Advent 2 Sam. 7:1 11, 16 Luke 1:46b 55 Rom. 16:25 27 Luke 1:26 38 God s Messengers Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders will discover, with Mary, what it means
More informationTeacher BIBLE STUDY. Older Kids Bible Study Leader Guide Unit 1 Session LifeWay Christian Resources
3rd-5th Grade (Both Hours) January 27, 2013 Teacher BIBLE STUDY Following the flood, God wanted to have a fresh start. God commanded Noah in Genesis 9:1 to Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth.
More informationJustification by Faith through Grace
Justification by Faith through Grace Acts 15:1-35 The focus of the church council at Jerusalem was regarding whether the Gentiles needed to be circumcised according to the Law of Moses in that they had
More informationLove Letters. Lesson 7: Ephesians 3
Love Letters Lesson 7: Ephesians 3 If you re an avid reader or moviegoer, you probably appreciate a mystery: a good whodunit. Ephesians 3 is devoted completely to the word mystery, but not the kind you
More informationGod Promises you that you are Alive in Christ
God Promises you that you are Alive in Christ Colossians 3:1 Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Colossians
More informationBaptized and Beloved. Focus on Luke 3:15 17, n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
January, 09 Baptism of the Lord Isa. : 7 Ps. 9 Acts 8: 7 Luke : 7, Goal for the Session Children will hear the story of Jesus baptism and discover that they are God s beloved children. n PREPARING FOR
More informationI PETER Aliens, Chosen To Obey, Full of Grace and Peace July 29, 2012
I PETER Aliens, Chosen To Obey, Full of Grace and Peace July 29, 2012 I. Aliens, Chosen to Obey, Full of Grace and Peace A. I Peter 1:1-2...Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens,
More informationEvery Spiritual Blessing Subtitle
Hope Christian Church Todd Cravens 8 March 2015 Sermon Series: The Book of Ephesians Every Spiritual Blessing Subtitle (Ephesians 1:3-14 ESV) 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who
More informationBartimaeus and Jesus. Focus on Mark 10: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
October 28, 2018 Proper 25 Semicontinuous Job 42:1 6, 10 17 Ps. 34:1 8, (19 22) Complementary Jer. 31:7 9 Ps. 126 Heb. 7:23 28 Mark 10:46 52 Bartimaeus and Jesus Goal for the Session Tweens will engage
More informationThe Greatest Commandment
October 29, 2017 Proper 25 Semicontinuous Deut. 34:1 12 Ps. 90:1 6, 13 17 Complementary Lev. 19:1 2, 15 18 Ps. 1 1 Thess. 2:1 8 Matthew 22:34 46 The Greatest Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders
More informationThe Glory of God: Why the Church Exists Ephesians 1:3-14 November 2, 2014 Aaron Reyes, Lead Pastor
The Glory of God: Why the Church Exists Ephesians 1:3-14 November 2, 2014 Aaron Reyes, Lead Pastor I. Introduction For our first sermon series as a church, we are journeying through the Letter to the Ephesians.
More informationto Israel, and through Israel, to all nations. scripture Passage: Memory Verses: GENESIS 1 1 : : 2 0 ;
LESSON 4 abraham God Calls a People To understand that the call of Abraham starts a new turn in the story of redemption as God begins to deal primarily with Abraham and his descendants, the Jews, and we
More informationTimothy s Nurturing Family
October 2, 2016 Proper 22 Scripture Semicontinuous Scripture Lam. 1:1 6 Lam. 3:19 26 Scripture Scripture Complementary Hab. 1:1 4; 2:1 4 Ps. 37:1 9 2 Tim. 1:1 14 Luke 17:5 10 Timothy s Nurturing Goal for
More informationWELCOME ACTIVITY PAGE
LEADER DEVOTIONAL Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday. Paul knew that following Jesus is difficult.
More informationExcelling Through Ephesians Part 1: Chapters 1-3
1Excelling Through Ephesians Excelling Through Ephesians Part 1: Chapters 1-3 Pastor Justin Smith Emmanuel Free Church 17737 West Spring Lake Rd. Spring Lake, MI 49456 www.efcspringlake.org 2Excelling
More informationGet in Line with God s Plan
Focal Text Ephesians 1:1 14 Background Ephesians 1 Main Idea God calls us to participate in the lavish plan he has set forth in Christ for enjoying all the blessings of being in good standing in God s
More informationDiscovering God s Wisdom STUDIES IN FIRST CORINTHIANS
Discovering God s Wisdom STUDIES IN FIRST CORINTHIANS Lesson 1 1 Corinthians 1 Searching the Scriptures for hidden treasure I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure. Psalm 119:162 This year
More informationSession Snapshot Narrative Passage: John 20:19-29; Acts 1:1-11
Session Snapshot Narrative Passage: John 20:19-29; Acts 1:1-11 Gospel Focus: Matthew 28:18-20 Student Takeaways: Students will understand that after Jesus arose, He appeared to His disciples before ultimately
More informationMy Story Union with Christ and Eternity Past. God s Story: The Umbrella we find our story within the umbrella, grand story/narrative of God
My Story Union with Christ and Eternity Past Andrew Hancock Elements of personal salvation The elements of my salvation from eternity past, to conversion, to the present (sanctification), and looking forward
More informationClothed with Christ s Love: The Epistle to the Colossians
Clothed with Christ s Love: The Epistle to the Colossians Diocese of West Texas Fall 2013 WEEK TWO So That We May Present Every Person Mature in Christ (Colossians 1:15-29) As we suggested in the Introduction,
More informationAnd Paul likewise speaks to this same blessing given to all believers when he writes:
[1:11 12] 59 at the right hand of God. This is what Paul means when he writes of all things being summed up in Messiah. He means that through the power of our risen and reigning King, all will be made
More informationColossians Analytical Outline
Colossians Analytical Outline General Guidelines 1. Divide the whole text into passages. Work on one passage at a time. 2. Start main (independent) sentences at the left margin. 3. Put modifying (dependent)
More informationChrist--Our Perfect Savior
February 15, 2015 Christ--Our Perfect Savior Colossians 1:19-23 Open your Bibles with me this morning to Colossians 1:15-23. We will be looking at verses 19-23 this morning, but I wanted to start with
More informationWho Is Jesus? Focus on Mark 8: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
September 16, 2018 Proper 19 Semicontinuous Prov. 1:20 33 Ps. 19 Complementary Isa. 50:4 9a Ps. 116:1 9 Jas. 3:1 12 Mark 8:27 38 Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders will read Peter s declaration
More information06. Ephesians 2:1-21
06. Ephesians 2:1-21 Part I of the body of the Letter - God s plan revealed 1. Gentiles are called to be united to Jews, living Christ s life in the Church (2:1-22). 2:1-3 You were dead through the trespasses
More informationThe Armor of God. Week 1 (June 2nd/3rd) 33.4 Elementary SGL. Leader Prep:
Week 1 (June 2nd/3rd) 33.4 Elementary SGL The Armor of God Bible Passages: Ephesians 6:10-19 Main Point: God gives us what we need to stand strong against evil. Big Picture Question: Who changes us? The
More informationDeny, Carry, Follow. Focus on Mark 8: n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
February 25, 2018 Second Sunday in Lent Gen. 17:1 7, 15 16 Ps. 22:23 31 Rom. 4:13 25 Mark 8:31 38 Deny, Carry, Follow Goal for the Session Third- and fourth-graders will examine what Jesus means when he
More informationEPHESIANS STUDY GUIDE Based on the book Sit, Walk, Stand, by Watchman Nee copyright 1957
EPHESIANS STUDY GUIDE Based on the book Sit, Walk, Stand, by Watchman Nee copyright 1957 All quotes are taken from Sit, Walk, Stand unless otherwise noted. All Scripture quotations are taken from ESV.
More information