diamonds in the rough

Transcription

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2 diamonds in the rough a study of women in the Bible contents spring 2018 calendar... 3 acknowledgments... 3 online Bible resources... 4 guidelines for discussion... 5 how to use this study... 6 discovering God s Word... 7 timeline of women in the Bible... 9 lesson one image bearers...10 lesson two eve lesson three sarai and hagar...24 lesson four rebekah, rachel, and leah lesson five a tale of two tamars...38 lesson six rahab: harlot to heroine lesson seven abigail: the humble diplomat lesson eight bathsheba...60 lesson nine the samaritan woman...66 lesson ten mary, mother of Jesus lesson eleven mary magdalene...81 lesson twelve you, a daughter of the King appendix A: memory verses appendix B: names of God included in this study...96 appendix C: Jesus in every book of the Bible legendary drive, frisco, texas

3 diamonds in the rough spring 2018 calendar date lesson january 10...introduction january 17...one: image bearers january 24...two: eve january 31...three: sarai and hagar february 7...fellowship week february 14...four: rebekah, rachel, and leah february 21...five: a tale of two tamars february 28...six: rahab march 7...seven: abigail march 14...spring break march 21...eight: bathsheba march 28...nine: the samaritan woman april 4...ten: mary, mother of Jesus april 11...eleven: mary magdalene april 18...twelve: you, a daughter of the King april 25...fellowship celebration acknowledgments The lessons in this study were written by Mary Dean, Suzette McGowen, Carrie Moore, Melissa Renner, Megan Simons, Dana Vaden, Vanessa van Dyck, and Karla Zazueta. Special thanks to Laurna Berg for her contribution of the word studies and Discovering God s Word for Yourself, and to Kay Daigle for her How to Use This Study suggestions. Thanks also to the proofreading eyes of Suzette McGowen, Chris Ragland, and Melissa Renner. We gratefully acknowledge our Communications team of Sandi Garrett, Susan Jacobson, Patricia Salcedo, Sarah McFarlane, Olga Ball, and Michelle Sweeten, who designed our cover and faithfully provided the final proofreading, editing, and formatting for our Bible study. 3

4 online Bible resources english Online Bibles Bible Study Tools Bible Study Desktops Free (most come with a limited number of free Bibles and books) General Reference Bible Reference Site Linker español Biblias en Linea Herramientas Para el Estudio Bíblico dge.cchs.csic.es/xdge/ Aplicaciones de Biblias de Astudio Gratis Buenas Referencias Generales Otros Sitios Recomendados Other Recommended Sites

5 Attendance & Time Management guidelines for discussion Please be prompt. In order to have enough time to cover the lesson and share with one another, we begin on time. Please be sensitive to the length and frequency of your participation so we have time for everyone to join in. Visitors are welcome! If you have a friend you would like to invite, please bring her along. Preparation Time spent in preparation will enhance the discussions and accelerate spiritual growth, so please come prepared. Confidentiality Out of respect for one another, please keep everything shared within your group confidential. Prayer Requests The leadership team will be praying for you. If you have individual needs and prayer requests, please fill out a Prayer Request Form and give it to your discussion leader. Other Courtesies In the interest of protecting our discussion group time from interruptions, please turn off all electronic items. We want to grow in the knowledge of the Lord together by discerning truth from the Bible. Since women in our groups are coming from varied backgrounds, please refrain from referring to any particular denominations, religious groups, or religious leaders. Please do not talk about politics or use the class for sales purposes. 5

6 Process Overview how to use this study This study is designed around the principles of inductive Bible study observation, interpretation, and application. Your private preparation completing the questions will be the most valuable portion of your work. As Dr. Howard Hendricks said, There is no jewel more precious than that which you have mined yourself. Your small group time provides an opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with other women. The lecture portion of our session wraps up the week s lesson with the aim of personal encouragement and specific application. Come With an Attitude of Prayer We can understand spiritual truth only as God reveals it to us. If your desire is to have the Holy Spirit show you the truths and applications in these Scriptures, go to God each day and ask Him to illumine your mind and open your heart to His message. Study Daily This study is designed to lead you personally to the Word of God so that your life is transformed. Each lesson is divided into five days of study so that daily time with God becomes your habit and you will be available for the Lord to speak to you each day. You have five days of work and one day of class each week, totaling six days. Do not hurry through the lesson, but allow the Holy Spirit to move in your heart. Use Only the Scripture to Answer the Questions As you work through this study, use only the Scripture itself to answer the questions, unless the lesson instructs you to use outside sources. If available, use one of the literal translations (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB) instead of a paraphrased Bible (such as The Living Bible). A paraphrase is someone else s interpretation. Give God time to teach you instead of running to other people for your answers. There is nothing more exciting than seeing it for yourself! When you come to class, you will have opportunities to learn more from your small group and from the lectures. Special Types of Questions and Study Tools Sharing Questions are designed to help you consider how the truth applies to you, specifically. It will be your choice whether to share your answers with your group. Digging Deeper Questions are optional because they are designed for those who wish to take more time and really dig into the Scriptures. Your group will not discuss these, but feel free to share your insights if time allows. Memory Verse is a focus on a verse, or part of one, from our lesson each week. Look at the verse early in the week and memorize it so that God can use it in a personal way. Personal Prayer is a short one-sentence prayer based on Scripture to pray toward the beginning of each lesson. Personal Response to God Questions ask you to respond to the lesson. Often, you write a prayer. You will never have to read your answers to these questions. Word Boxes are selected words from each lesson that paint a word picture of a key concept and are followed by a specific personal application. The Word of God is beautiful, delightful, desirable, and profitable, and the time you devote toward studying the Word of God will profit you eternally (Psalm 119). 1 1 The Word Boxes contain information obtained from Strong s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible and from Vine s Complete Expository Dictionary. 6

7 discovering God s Word an introduction to inductive Bible study methods Why Use the Inductive Method of Bible Study? The questions in this study are designed for group discussion based on the three principles of inductive Bible study: Observation Interpretation Application The most valuable portion of your work will be the time you spend in private preparation completing the study questions. As you use this thorough method of study, you will discover God s truth yourself without leaning on the opinions and commentary of others. This sense of personal discovery develops your confidence in understanding God s message of love to you. You will then experience the joy of seeing your own observations affirmed when you read the commentaries of others. Begin With Prayer. Ask the Lord to open your eyes and illumine His truth in your heart and mind through His Spirit. God provides each believer with a personal teacher in the Person of the Holy Spirit who enlightens our minds. Step 1: Observation What Does It Say? The first step is to examine the biblical text carefully. This step is key because accurate observation leads to correct interpretation and provides the foundation for personal application. Accurate observation requires spending time reading the text in order to determine exactly what it is saying. It is often helpful to read the passage in several English translations. Methods and tools for enhancing observation include: Answering questions such as: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How? Identifying information about the author and recipients: Who are they? What are their circumstances? What are their concerns? Examining the immediate context: Read the passages preceding and following the text Identify the key words or phrases Identify lists Note comparisons, contrasts, and conclusions Note time expressions Identify instructions or commands Outline or structure the text Identify why the author is writing (examine the author s purpose) Identify the main theme of the book or passage 7

8 Step 2: Interpretation What Does It Mean? An effective way to discover the meaning of a passage is by examining key words and consulting related cross references. This study guide includes personal enrichment studies of key words and cross references for each lesson. By using a dictionary, a concordance, and other tools, you will gain a greater understanding of the author s intent and the message of the passage. Word Studies Examine the meaning of the word. Simple word studies can be performed by consulting an English dictionary to clarify terms. More advanced word studies can be performed by consulting an exhaustive concordance (for example, Strong s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible). The concordance will provide the English transliteration of the original Greek or Hebrew word, the definition, and an exhaustive listing of each use of the word in the Bible. An expository dictionary (for example, Vine s Complete Expository Dictionary) may be consulted for a more complete definition. Cross References Consult other Bible passages where the word or concept occurs. Basic cross references are often listed in the page margin or in the concordance in the back of the Bible. An exhaustive list of cross references is included in Strong s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Example of a Word Study With Cross-References Anger ( wrath, James 1:19, kjv) Anger is used in James 1:19, but it is translated wrath in the King James Version (kjv) of the Bible. (Most concordances are keyed to the kjv.) Strong s (3709) orge (or gay ) desire, reaching forth, violent passion, punishment, anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath. (Strong s provides the Greek word, its pronunciation, the definition, and a list of every location where it is used in the Bible.) Vine s natural impulse or disposition to anger, vengeance, wrath. Vine s also contrasts orge (settled abiding condition of the mind, less active but longer lasting) with thumes (agitated outburst, quickly blazes up and quickly subsides). (Vine s provides an expanded definition. In this example, Vine s additionally contrasts two different Greek words for anger. ) Other references using anger ( wrath, kjv) include Ephesians 4:26; Galatians 5:20; Proverbs 16:32; and Ecclesiastes 7:9. Step 3: Application What Does It Mean to Me? Having observed and interpreted the text, the final step is to apply the Word specifically to your personal life in order to reflect the Lord (Romans 12:1 2). Ask yourself if the passage has one of these: A command to obey A principle to apply A warning to heed An illustration to consider A consequence to avoid Tools that enhance application include these: Prayerful evaluation of the text Identification of specific principles, commands, instructions, or illustrations Memorization of verses (Psalm 119:11) The questions in this study are designed for group discussion and cover each of the inductive Bible study steps: observation, interpretation, and application. 8

9 timeline of women in the Bible 1 B.C A.D. 500 Eve Noah s wife Sarah Hagar Rebekah Leah Rachel Miriam Rahab Deborah (1225) Hannah Delilah Naomi Ruth Michal Abigail Bathsheba Queen of Sheba Jezebel Esther Elizabeth Mary Samaritan woman 1 Ann Spangler and Jean E. Syswerda, Women of the Bible: A One-year Devotional Study of Women in Scripture (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1999, 2007),

10 lesson one image bearers selected Scriptures Memory Verse: God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:27, nasb Background: The traditional view of being made in God s image is that God s image is displayed in us when we employ certain moral, intellectual, and ethical abilities. However, based on Hebrew grammar and historical ancient Near East context, the phrase translated Let us make man in our image can also be translated as our image, meaning we are made as little images of God on earth. In ancient Roman times, an emperor would command that statues of his likeness be placed in remote parts of his empire, thus reminding his people under whose authority they were. God has placed humankind (men and women) as living symbols on earth to represent His power and reign. When God makes a woman, she is intrinsically valuable because she bears His image, just as the man does. Ontologically (essentially) equal with her male counterpart, she is made to rule with man over God s creation understanding and enjoying her unique role as a minister of Christ in a multitude of ways, including marriage and motherhood. Reflection: In what ways do you reflect God s image in your daily life? The LORD is My Creator Elohim ~ The All-Powerful Creator God He is the powerful Creator and Sustainer of the entire universe The names of God reveal attributes of His character. Elohim [Hebrew plural form of el God] emphasizes God s strength, power, and sovereignty in creation, while the plural form accentuates God s majesty and confirms the Trinitarian nature of God. Elohim is the very first name of God powerfully proclaimed in the Bible and is used over 2570 times throughout the Word, eloquently establishing the superlative preeminent nature of God as Creator. * In the beginning God [Elohim] created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 Genesis 1:1 refutes atheism (there is a God), pantheism (God transcends His creation), polytheism (one God created all things), fatalism (God had a purpose in creation), materialism (matter has a beginning and God existed before matter), evolution (God created all things), and humanism (God, not man, is the center of all). Creation is the introduction to and foundation for the entire Word of God. The term create [Hebrew bara] is uniquely significant because only God can create. God s creation was: Ex nihilo (out of nothing). Recent (thousands of years ago, not millions [tight genealogies in Genesis 5, 7, and 11 list 1948 years between the creation of Adam and the birth of Abraham c 2100 BC]). Special (six literal days). Every time day [Hebrew yom] is used in the Bible with a numeric adjective (first, second, etc.), it always refers to a literal 24-hour day. The use of a plural noun for God [Hebrew Elohim strong, mighty, supreme Deity] with a singular verb implies the plurality of the Godhead in creation. continued on next page... 10

11 The Trinity is also evidenced by: God the Father creating. Genesis 1:1; Psalm 102:25; Jeremiah 10:12 God the Holy Spirit moving (hovering, vibrating, and energizing the creation). Genesis 1:2; Psalm 104:30 God the Son speaking creation into being. Genesis 1:3; John 1:1 5, 10; Colossians 1:16 17 Their communication and cooperation in creation: Let Us make man in Our image and according to Our likeness. Genesis 1:26; 3:22 Creation is confirmed throughout both the Old Testament and the New Testament, not merely as a literary story but as a literal factual event: Job 38:4 Exodus 20:11; 31:17 Isaiah 42:5; 45:18 Psalm 121:2 Malachi 2:10 Mark 13:19 Acts 7:50; 14:15 Romans 1:20 Hebrews 11:3 Revelation 4:11; 10:6; 14:6 7 More than half of the 200 New Testament allusions to Genesis refer to chapters 1 11, with Jesus quoting from Genesis chapters 1 7 and 9. Genesis is the book of beginnings the beginning of creation, humanity, sin, judgment and numerous theologically significant words are used for the first time in the first 11 chapters. These concepts are developed throughout the Bible, often with ultimate resolution in the final book of Revelation. As image bearers of God, as children of the LORD, we are to recognize the importance and reality of our Creator, the importance and value of obeying His instructions, and the opportunity to reflect Him: By caring for and exercising wise dominion over His creatures and creation. Genesis 1:26 30 By honoring marriage [monogamous, heterosexual, permanent] and the family. Genesis 2:18 25; Mark 10:7 9; Ephesians 5:22 6:4 By valuing human life. Genesis 1:28; Isaiah 45:18; Psalm 139:13 16 By proclaiming His amazing creation and intelligent design to the world. Psalm 19 God is the powerful Creator and Sustainer of the entire universe. He created you for a purpose! Trust Him. Colossians 1:16 17; Jeremiah 29:11 Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You Jeremiah 32:17, nasb personal prayer u Oh Lord, you are the Creator. Bring me to a deeper understanding of who You are and what it means to be created in Your image. 11

12 day one read Genesis 1:1 31 The first chapter of Genesis begins with God s creation of the heavens and the earth, followed by God ordering the earth so it might become His dwelling place. Genesis 1 establishes a hierarchy of authority for God s creation. Humanity (man and woman) is divinely commissioned to govern other creatures on God s behalf, for the ultimate purpose that the whole earth should become the temple of God, the place of His presence, to display His glory. 1. Based on Genesis 1:26, how are men and women to relate to each other? What are they to do together for God s glory? 2. What was God s command in Genesis 1:28 to the man and woman after He created them? 3. Why is it important to God that His image-bearers are multiplied on the earth? What do you think this means? 4. How does Psalm 8 reflect the creation story in Genesis 1? How does this affect how we value ourselves as women? 5. Sharing: Why do you think it is important for women to realize that by God s command, we are designed to reign and rule with men over His creation? What do you think that looks like? Memory Verse: God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:27, nasb 12

13 day two read Genesis 2:15 24 Genesis 2 is a parallel creation account to Genesis 1, which means it gives more detail about the creation of man and woman in Genesis Based on Genesis 2:18, why did God create a woman, and what was her purpose? 2. Describe how God made the woman from Adam. 3. Read through the Word Box, The Lord is My Creator, at the beginning of this lesson. What did you learn? 4. What is the prototype for marriage based on Genesis 2:24? How did Jesus reaffirm this union in Matthew 19:4 6? Digging Deeper: Read Psalm 33: Describe how God is described as a helper (ezer) for His people in Psalm 33:20. The Hebrew word for helper is translated ezer, which means to help, nourish, sustain, or strengthen. What is the significance of God using the same term for Himself that He uses for a woman? Read Ruth 1 4. How does Ruth function as an ezer for Naomi in her singleness? How is Ruth rewarded? 13

14 day three read Song of Solomon 4 God made woman physically beautiful and designed her husband to delight in her beauty. Men and women are sexual beings, and God s creativity and pleasure are reflected when a man and woman become one flesh in marriage. Holy sexuality is to be celebrated and to be kept within the privacy of marriage. God is pleased in the relational and sexual union of man and woman because it reflects His sacred image as three Persons (Father, Son, Spirit) in one. 1. What can we learn about men, women, and God from reading Song of Solomon chapter 4? 2. According to 1 Peter 3:3 4, what makes a woman beautiful on the inside? How does God view women who have these characteristics? 3. Psalm 144 speaks of the blessings that God has for His people. In verse 12, how are women (daughters) described? How does this imagery support the theme in the Bible that women are valuable in God s sight? 4. Sharing: In light of our culture, how do you view God s gift of sexuality? Memory Verse: God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:27, nasb 14

15 day four read Isaiah 66:7 14 Many times in the Bible God uses feminine imagery, such as motherhood, to describe His dealings with the nation of Israel and to communicate His love for His people. In Isaiah 66, the prophet Isaiah speaks for the Lord and reveals God will bless His people even though they have been unfaithful to Him. Isaiah uses the imagery of a mother giving birth to portray that just as God gave birth to the nation of Israel, He will be faithful in fulfilling all His promises to them. Then Isaiah uses the imagery of a mother comforting her nursing child to illustrate how God s people will be comforted by Him. 1. How does God say He will fulfill His promises to Israel in Isaiah 66:9? Why do you think God uses this specific image? 2. According to Isaiah 66:10 14, people who are mourning over Jerusalem now will delight in her later. How does the image of a nursing mother comforting her child relate to God s future dealing with His people? 3. What picture does Jesus use in Matthew 23:37 to describe His feelings for the city of Jerusalem? Why does He use this feminine imagery? Digging Deeper: Read the following passages and describe the feminine images used for God and His people: Psalm 131:1 2; Deuteronomy 32:11; Luke 13:34; Isaiah 49:15; John 3:5 6; Romans 8:22; Ezekiel 16:44 45; Isaiah 50:1 and 54:1; Hosea 2:

16 day five Proverbs 31:10 31 shows us what a woman s wisdom looks like when it is lived out in everyday life. Read Proverbs 31:10 31 and fill in the chart below. Keep in mind this description included all the seasons of her life. In other words, she did not do all these things at once! Characteristic Proverbs 31 Woman How I Display This Wise Compassionate Industrious Competent Submissive Strong Helper (ezer kenegdo) Loving personal response to God Spend some time reflecting on the above chart. Where have you seen God grow you in the last five years? 15 years? What are some areas that need continued growth? Spend some time asking God for growth in those areas what are two specific things you can do? 16

17 lesson two eve selected Scriptures Memory Verse: Then the LORD God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit [ezer kenegdo] for him. Genesis 2:18, esv Background: There is a spiritual battle raging all around us as Satan works to destroy the God-given institutions of marriage and family. We see it played out in the physical world, but we must not forget that it is spiritual. The apostle Paul says in Ephesians 6:12, For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (esv) Satan wants to destroy the image of God, so he comes after the image-bearers through abortion, divorce, dissatisfaction regarding male and female roles, confused gender identity, and abuse. Our God-given, image bearing role as women is under attack, so there has never been a better time to study biblical womanhood and reclaim the confidence and satisfaction in living lives honoring to God as women. Reflection: How does the biblical view of women differ from the world s view of women? The LORD is My Victory Jehovah Sabaoth ~ The LORD of Hosts He is the powerful God who gives us the victory The names of God reveal attributes of His character. Jehovah [Hebrew YHWH, Yahweh, LORD (all capital letters in English translations)] emphasizes God s active self-existence, His holiness, hatred of sin, and personal love of mankind through covenant and redemption. Jehovah is one of the most significant names for God, occurring 6823 times in the Old Testament, and is often compounded with another name of God. Jehovah Sabaoth [ LORD of Hosts (armies) ] is a military title presenting the LORD as commander of the armies of heaven, the Mighty One of Israel who will avenge Himself on His foes and adversaries. Genesis 2:4; 6:3 7; Exodus 3:14; 6:6; Leviticus 11:44 45; Isaiah 53: Samuel 1:3; 17:45; Psalm 46:7; Isaiah 1:24 All of God s original creation was proclaimed good and very good. Genesis 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31; 2:9 (2x), 12 Even Satan had the seal of perfection, was initially full of wisdom and beauty, was the star of the morning and the anointed cherub who covered, and was blameless in all his ways. However, at some point between Genesis 2 and Genesis 3, Satan defiantly opposed God and was cast out of his exalted position in heaven. Satan appeared in the Garden of Eden, successfully tempting Adam and Eve to rebel against God by questioning God s Word, by denying God s Word, and by substituting his own lie. This warfare between God and Satan continues in the present as Satan attacks believers today by: Isaiah 14:12 16; Ezekiel 28:11 19 Promoting deception and lies. Genesis 3:1 7; Matthew 4:1 11; Acts 5:3 continued on next page... 17

18 Accusing believers. Zechariah 3; Revelation 12:9 10 Causing physical suffering. Job 1 2; Luke 22:31 32; 2 Corinthians 12:7 10 Promoting spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:11 18 Promoting immorality. 1 Corinthians 7:5 Promoting pride and independence from God. 1 Chronicles 21 Sowing tares among believers. Matthew 13:38 39; Revelation 2:10 Satan attacks unbelievers as well by: Blinding their minds. 2 Corinthians 4:4 Snatching the Word from their hearts. Luke 8:12 Using unbelievers to oppose God. Revelation 2:13 Promoting idolatry and the occult in order to receive worship. Deuteronomy 18; 1 Corinthians 10:20 21 As image bearers of God, we are to be strong [Greek endunamousthe power, strength, ability (present passive imperative)] in the LORD and in the strength [Greek kratei power that overcomes resistance, used in Christ s miracles] of His might [Greek ischyos God s inherent strength]. We are to put on the full armor of God in order to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. This is a military term to hold the position, emphasizing the need for immovable steadfastness in the face of a ruthless foe. Piece of Armor Spiritual Identification Defense Against Exemplified by Christ Belt of Truth Truth, integrity, clear conscience Lies, deceit, false teaching Christ is Truth John 14:6 Breastplate of Righteousness Being declared righteous and walking righteously Sin Christ is our Righteousness 2 Corinthians 5:21 Feet Shod With the Gospel of Peace Assurance, confidence, and peace with God and one another Strife, anger, unforgiveness, bitterness Christ is our Peace Ephesians 2:14 18 Shield of Faith Specific defensive action faithfully utilizing truth from God s Word Anything Satan can use to promote disobedience Christ is the source and example of Faith Galatians 2:20; Romans 10:17 Helmet of Salvation Assurance of salvation and victory Attacks to the mind Have the Mind of Christ 1 Corinthians 2:16; Ephesians 2:4 6 Sword of the Spirit The Word of God Offensive resistance against Satan s attacks Christ is the Word John 1:1, 14 Having put on the armor of God, believers are exhorted to: Stand Firm! Ephesians 6:11, 13, 14 Pray! Ephesians 6:18 19 Watch! Be on the alert! Ephesians 6:18 He is the powerful God who gives us the victory. Christ has already won the victory! Romans 8:37 39; 1 Corinthians 15:51 58; Colossians 1:13 14; Revelation You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world! 1 John 4:4, nasb 18

19 day one read Genesis 2:18 24 In Bible times, a son did not move away when he married, but lived near his parents and inherited his father s land. He left his parents in the sense of putting his wife s welfare before that of his parents. 1. What is unique about the creation of the first woman? 2. What does the Bible say about a one flesh union in marriage as described in Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:5, 1 Corinthians 6:16, and Ephesians 5:31 32? 3. What can we learn about God s plan for human sexuality from Genesis 2:25? 4. Sharing: Why do you think God created marriage? What can we say about God s character from what He creates? Memory Verse: Then the LORD God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit [ezer kenegdo] for him. Genesis 2:18, esv 19

20 day two read Ephesians 5:21 33 Paul tells us marriage was created by Christ for Christ and is all about Christ. Humans did not create it. We do not define it. It is a spiritual representation of Christ (as husband) and His bride (the Church, all believers from all time) leading up to the actual spiritual consummation of the marriage supper of the Lamb when we will fellowship with Him face to face. 1. Based on Ephesians 5:21 31, what is the role of a husband toward his wife in marriage? 2. Describe the wife s role toward her husband from Ephesians 5: What spiritual reality is reflected in the earthly analogy of marriage? How does marriage represent the Gospel of Christ? 4. Read through the Word Box, The Lord is My Victory, at the beginning of this lesson. How are we equipped to resist the attacks of the enemy, Satan? Digging Deeper: Read Matthew 22:30 and Revelation 19:7 9. Earthly marriage foreshadows something even greater in the future. The marriage supper of the Lamb is anticipated in Scripture as the consummation of Christ with His bride, the Church. The Church (all believers) is brought to Christ through faith in the Gospel. The gown of her righteous deeds is her groom s gift of grace. This marriage supper is what all of history is moving toward. How does this encourage someone who is single or married? 20

21 day three read Genesis 3:1 24 God warned Adam and Eve that they would die if they did not obey His command not to eat of the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and death would certainly stop Adam and Eve from multiplying, filling, and ruling over the earth. Humanity had to obey God s command if it was to accomplish God s purpose to fill and subdue the earth. But they did not obey, and they deserved to die immediately. If not for God s mercy, death would have stopped motherhood before it even started. God called the man and woman to Himself after they transgressed. The serpent He cursed (Genesis 3:14 15), and then He made the created roles given to the man and woman more difficult (3:16 19). The punishment hit the woman precisely at the point of motherhood: God s consequences stand against motherhood physically and relationally. Physically she will experience pain in childbearing; relationally she no longer wants to submit, but to control. 1. What is the promise to Eve in the midst of speaking a curse to the serpent in Genesis 3:15? 2. According to Genesis 3:20, how does Adam show his faith in God s promise of future seed? 3. According to Genesis 3:15, how does birthing godly seed (believers) through motherhood counteract Satan s plan to destroy God s created world? 4. Sharing: Why do you think God chose motherhood (raising up godly people) to counter Satan s rule on earth? What eternal significance does this bring to motherhood? Memory Verse: Then the LORD God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit [ezer kenegdo] for him. Genesis 2:18, esv 21

22 day four read 1 Samuel 1:1 2:11 God threw the promise of life in the face of death even as He spoke the curse over the serpent. Only the serpent heard the words cursed are you (Genesis 3:14). He also heard that God would put enmity between himself and the woman, between his seed and hers. He, the serpent, would bruise the heel of the seed of the woman, but that seed of the woman would bruise the serpent s head (3:15), where mortal blows are landed. This seed of the woman, ultimately realized in Christ, becomes the protagonist of Scripture, fighting against Satan in the spiritual realm. But motherhood is not always easy in Scripture. Many of the matriarchs of Israel struggled with barrenness Sarai, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth. God moved His redemption plan for humanity forward through their struggle, and overcame death with new life, giving many of them a part in the genealogy of the Messiah. 1. Describe the circumstances of Hannah s life. 2. How is Hannah portrayed as a righteous woman in chapter one of 1 Samuel? 3. What was Hannah s vow to the Lord? What happened? 4. How does Hannah s life reflect the words of Paul in Titus 2:4 5? 5. What can we learn from Hannah? Digging Deeper: Read about the theme of barrenness in the Bible Sarai (Genesis 15:4 5; Genesis 16:1), Rebekah, (Genesis 25:21; Genesis 26:3 4), Rachel (Genesis 28:3 4; Genesis 30:1), and Elizabeth (Luke 1:5 17). How does God prove Himself faithful to the promise to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:15? 22

23 day five Ever since the fall in Genesis 3, men and women have struggled. Marred by sin, we make choices and develop characters that are inconsistent with God s desire for us. In the Bible, we read of instances where women are abused and taken advantage of by a sinful culture. The tragedies that happen to women in the Bible are not endorsed by God, but they are examples of what happens when sinful men and women relate in a broken world. However, we also read of God s faithfulness in women s lives, and how He redeems and restores women because of His great love for His own. 1. What have you learned about God s goodness in creating women? 2. What have you learned about God s design for women in the family unit? 3. What have you learned about how God uses women to accomplish His will on earth? 4. What makes you thankful to be a woman created in God s image? personal response to God Read through the table of contents on page two. Which stories are you looking forward to studying? Throughout the rest of this study, prayerfully read these stories with the understanding that God s faithfulness and character will be displayed. Pray for a bit of grace and an open heart to let God work in you to accomplish His perfect will for you. 23

24 lesson three sarai and hagar Genesis 16 18, 21 Memory Verse: Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son. Genesis 18:14, niv Background: God promised Abram many descendants. As the years passed, Abram and Sarai (whom God later renamed Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 17) began to doubt God s promises. An accepted practice in the ancient Near East culture in that day was for maid servants to give birth to children who would have full rights as heirs. Reflection: Do you really believe that anything is possible with God? Ask the Lord to help you grow in your perspective of our all-powerful Creator. The LORD Sees El Roi ~ The God Who Sees He knows us and sees our troubles The names of God reveal attributes of His character. El Roi [el God; roi sees] emphasizes that God sees our distress and trouble and will act powerfully on our behalf, incorporating God s attributes of omniscience [God knows all things] and omnipotence [God is all powerful]. El Roi first appeared to Hagar, Sarai s Egyptian maid and Abram s concubine, as Hagar was alone and desperate in the wilderness. Significantly, this is the first and only appearance of a new name of God to a woman. Hagar s situation was very difficult, having been taken from her home country of Egypt, being a slave to Sarai, becoming a concubine to Abram at Sarai s suggestion, becoming pregnant, and being treated harshly by Sarai, precipitating Hagar s flight to the wilderness. Genesis 16:1 14 The angel of the LORD is a theophany (self-manifestation of God), a preincarnate appearance of Jesus Christ who speaks as God, identifies Himself with God, and appears frequently in the Old Testament: To Abraham Genesis 22:11 18 To Jacob Genesis 31:11, 13 To Moses Exodus 3:2 To Samson s parents Judges 13:3 22 To David 2 Samuel 24:16 To Zechariah Zechariah 1:12 17; 3:1 6; 12:8 Notably, the first two appearances of the angel of the LORD are to Hagar, setting a standard for future appearances of the angel of the LORD, as well as providing a glimpse into the character and activities of El Roi. Observe God s insight into Hagar s distress, followed by His wise instructions and loving promises in their first interaction. Genesis 16:7 14; 21:17 21 continued on next page... 24

25 The angel of the LORD: Found Hagar. Spoke to Hagar. Listened to Hagar. Instructed Hagar to return to her mistress and submit to her authority. Promised Hagar that He will greatly multiply her descendants so they will be too many to count. Predicted that Hagar would have a son. Instructed Hagar to name her son Ishmael [meaning God hears ], because the LORD had heard her cry and had given heed to her affliction. Approximately 17 years later, Hagar again fled with Ishmael to the wilderness, fearing his death. The angel of the LORD heard Ishmael crying, spoke to Hagar from heaven, listened, instructed, and promised Ishmael would become a great nation. Then God opened Hagar s eyes, and she saw a well of water, gave Ishmael a drink, and prospered. El Roi, the God Who Sees, opened Hagar s eyes to see His provision and experience His promises. As image bearers of God, be encouraged that God sees and knows us and our challenging circumstances, and will powerfully act on our behalf in His perfect timing. Draw near to God, cling to His precious promises, pray fervently, and study His Word, knowing that one day soon we will see Him face to face. The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous And His ears are open to their cry. Psalm 34:15, nasb Open my eyes, that I may behold Wonderful things from Your law. Psalm 119:18, nasb Then Elisha prayed and said, O LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see. And the LORD opened the servant s eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 2 Kings 6:17, nasb personal prayer u Dear God, help me to believe every day, in every way, in every situation, You are in control, You have an ultimate plan, and through You all things are possible. May I marvel at Your power and glory. 25

26 day one Genesis Abram and Sarai set out from Haran with their household in obedience to God s call. God would later rename them Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 17). Read the verses below, find the corresponding letter on the map, and fill in the names of the locations where Sarai (and Hagar) lived. a. Genesis 11:27 30 b. Genesis 11:31 32 c. Genesis 12:1 6 d. Genesis 12:7 8 e. Genesis 12:10 (note where Abram traveled back to in Genesis 13:1 4.) f. Genesis 13:14 18 g. Genesis 20:1 h. Genesis 21:22 34 (also note Genesis 23:1 2) 26

27 day two selected Scriptures Describe the key events in the timeline below. Note any thoughts and feelings Sarai and Hagar may have had at the time. Location & Sarai s Age Haran, Canaan, The Negev Scripture / Description of Key Events 65 Genesis 12:1 9 Egypt?? Genesis 12:10 20 Canaan 76 Genesis 16:1 15 Canaan 90 Genesis 17:15 27 Canaan 90 Genesis 18:1 15 Gerar 90 Genesis 20:1 18 Canaan 90 and 127 Genesis 21:1 21; 23:1 2 Digging Deeper: Look up the climate, topography, culture, living arrangements, etc., of the areas Sarai and Hagar lived in during that time. What would living at that time and in that culture be like? Step into their shoes and compare and contrast your daily struggles spiritually and practically with theirs. 27

28 days three and four selected Scriptures 1. Read Genesis 12:1 3. Do you think Abram and Sarai talked about the promises God made to Abram? Why or why not? 2. What do we know about Hagar? 3. Sharing: When have you made a decision out of fear and/or trying to control the situation, and found yourself not trusting the Lord? What happened? 4. Read Genesis 16:4 5. Why do you think Hagar treated Sarai this way? Have you ever found yourself treating another poorly? 5. How has God called us to act toward those who insult us? How can we live this out in today s world? Support your answer with Scripture. 28

29 6. Sharing: Read Genesis 16:9. Have you ever had to submit to the authority of someone who treated you harshly? How did you react in the situation? Is there anything you could have done differently? 7. How do you think the culture at the time affected Sarai and Hagar s relationship? 8. Sharing: How do you think our culture affects our relationships with other women? 9. Read through the Word Box, The Lord Sees, at the beginning of this lesson. Hagar referred to God as, the God who sees me. What new insights did you gain? How does God see you? 10. Sharing: God did not leave Hagar in her brokenness. How is God working in your broken places? Memory Verse: Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son. Genesis 18:14, niv 29

30 day five selected Scriptures 1. Read Genesis 17:15 23 and 18:10. God explicitly told Abraham He would give him a son through Sarah, which seemed impossible to them both. How do you limit God s power from a human perspective? Read Jeremiah 32:27 and Genesis 18:14 as a gentle reminder of God s power. 2. Read Genesis 18: In what ways do we try to lie to the Lord? 3. Read Genesis 21:8 20. Do you think it was fair that Sarah and Abraham sent Hagar away? Why or why not? 4. What was God s plan with all of these events? Read Matthew 1:1 17 and Luke 1:67 79 for insight. 5. Paul uses the story of Sarah and Hagar as a scriptural illustration in Galatians 4: What did Paul want the Galatians to understand? personal response to God We all have things in our lives we try to control instead of handing them over to God. Think through what that is in your life. Pray to God He would give you strength, perseverance, and discipline to hand that over continually to Him day by day, moment by moment including all stress and worry. 30

31 lesson four rebekah, rachel, and leah God at work in the midst of brokenness Genesis Memory Verse: for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose. Isaiah 46:9b 10, esv Background: In Carolyn Custis James s book, Half the Church, we read, Whatever we lost in Eden we find again in Jesus. 1 That is a truth worth pondering. As we dig into the stories of Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah this week, we will witness a painful unraveling that bears all the weight of Genesis 3 a family foreknown and called by God for a glorious purpose and blessing, a family who often chooses to do things their own way, a family who lives with the rippling consequences of division and disobedience that spread over generations, and yet, a family who also sees God, hears God, and is used by God to be a blessing to every generation because of God s generous grace and His matchless glory. However deep the brokenness, His grace is always greater! Reflection: Where are some of the broken places in your life you have seen God heal? How have you experienced God s grace? The LORD Heals Jehovah Rapha ~ The LORD Who Heals He is the healer God who makes all suffering worth it The names of God reveal attributes of His character. Jehovah Rapha emphasizes God s ability to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally from disease and distress, and spiritually by pardoning iniquities and sin. The first mention of God as Jehovah Rapha, the LORD Who Heals, is to Moses and Israel in the wilderness, where God promises, If you will give earnest heed to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His sight, and give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have put on the Egyptians; for I, the LORD, am your healer. Jesus demonstrated He was Jehovah Rapha in His miraculous ministry of physically healing the sick, lame, blind, and lepers, casting out demons, and raising the dead, as well as spiritually calling sinners to repentance. Family stories in the Bible including those of Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah were written for our instruction and appear remarkably similar to challenges encountered today in families and culture: infertility, family conflict, deception, theft, lies, and favoritism. Their lives reflected physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual anguish, struggle, suffering, and pain. Nevertheless, careful reflection on their lives reveals a God who was working within their circumstances to heal the brokenhearted and to bind up their wounds. Ultimately manipulative Rebekah, who never saw her beloved son Jacob again after his departure for Haran, was reunited with him in their family burial cave in the field of Ephron, near Mamre, with Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac. continued on next page... 1 Carolyn Custis James, Half the Church (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Exodus 15:26 Matthew 4:23; Luke 5:31 32 Psalm 147:3 Genesis 49:31

32 And the fiercely competitive sisters Rachel and Leah are remembered as being blessed by the LORD as both of them are credited by their descendants with building the house of Israel. Present suffering is not worthy in comparison to future glory, as God promises to cause all things (including suffering, disease, pain, and unjust treatment) to work together for ultimate good. Ruth 4:11 Romans 8:18 28 As image bearers of God, be encouraged that God is the LORD who heals and will make all your suffering worthwhile, and you also have many opportunities to provide verbal, physical, and spiritual healing and refreshment to those around you. Trusting and honoring God will be healing to your body and refreshment to your bones. Proverbs 3:1 8 The tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18 A faithful envoy brings healing. Proverbs 13:17 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24 Righteousness can provide healing. Malachi 4:2 Pray for healing. James 5:13 16 God will wipe away every tear. Isaiah 25:8; Revelation 7:17 God comforts us in all our affliction so we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the same comfort God provides for us. 2 Corinthians 1:3 4 Remember all the good things God has done for you. Psalm 103:1 5; Philippians 4:7 8 On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing 12 kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. He is the healer God who makes all suffering worth it and will provide complete healing in His perfect timing. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:5, nasb Revelation 22:2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. Psalm 103:1 5, nasb 32

33 days one and two read Genesis 24 Rebekah demonstrates to us that God is faithful even when we cannot yet see. Rebekah s story as a member of Abraham s family begins before she ever meets Isaac or even Abraham s servant. 1. Based on what you read in chapter 24, how was Rebekah sought out? 2. How was God s presence instrumental in bringing her into Abraham s family? 3. How was she shown respect? How was she a demonstration of God s faithfulness to Abraham? 4. Sharing: Has there been a time in your life you could look back to and see the hand of God actively at work on your behalf, even though you had no idea at the time? How does this encourage you now? 5. What did Abraham desire in a wife for Isaac according to Genesis 24:1 14? 6. What do you see revealed about Rebekah s character as she is introduced in Genesis 24:15 30? 33

34 7. How did Rebekah fulfill Abraham s hopes and prayers? 8. Putting yourself in Rebekah s sandals, describe what it would have been like to listen in on Abraham s servant s report to Abraham (24:34 52). What do you imagine she was thinking and feeling? What gave her the confidence to say, I will go in verse 58? 9. What blessing did Rebekah s family speak over her before she left (24:59 61)? As a wife, what difficult reality did Rebekah live with and how long did she struggle (25:19 26)? 10. Sharing: Have you lived through a season when the blessing you desired and the reality you faced were in stark contrast? What did you learn? What verse of Scripture would you want to share to encourage someone else walking that similar, difficult road? 11. How does 2 Corinthians 1:3 4 speak hope to you? How can you encourage someone else in your life this week? Memory Verse: for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose. Isaiah 46:9b 10, esv 34