Saturday, January 24, 2015
Learning From Jesus
Opening Prayer: Pg.1
Father God, We ask that you send your Holy Spirit to inspire and teach us that which you would have us to learn from this study. We ask your blessings on each one here tonight with another year of good health and life. Inspire us to be your followers and to seek the good in all things. Be with those of our friends and fellow Christians that are sick or bereaved, or away for other reasons. We ask that you share our blessing with them. Guide us tonight as we worship you in this, our bible study.
In The name of Jesus we pray, Amen
--------------------------------Scripture reading-----------------------------------------
Mat 6:22 "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
Mat 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Mat 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
Mat 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Mat 6:27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
Mat 6:28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
Mat 6:29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
Mat 6:30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith?
Mat 6:31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
Mat 6:32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
Mat 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Mat 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Scripture study Pg.2
Mat 6:22 "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
Our eyes are the windows to the world. If one cannot see what is there to behold they would need a guide, Consider a blind person having sight restored. And seeing for the first time. If one has never seen a deer, a rose, an eagle, or a written word, what reference does one have for recognizing anything they may see. That person would need someone to help with learning to recognize what is seen, and to learn what ,if any, response is required.
Righteousness and Sin are like that as well, having never seen or experienced it, one might not recognize it unless there were someone to explain it. We have the word of God , and there is Jesus, that someone who helps us to recognize our world, and what righteousness looks like, and how to recognize sin before we involve ourselves with it. We are not always prepared to deal with it, but our Lord is, and can help us to deal with it. Just imagine what would have happened had Adam or Eve recognized the serpent as a sinful representation of the wrong that can enter a persons life through their eyes, and just as Jesus in the wilderness rebuked Satan with scripture when he was tempted. They would have recognized the sin that the serpent was offering, and with the light of truth, the word of God that they had been given, they would have avoided that sin, and the consequences of it. Read (Psalms. 119: v. 98 & 105),
It is what we see and choose to allow to come into our heart that makes the difference between a healthy, righteous life, and an unhealthy view of the world. Even more so should it befall one who knows the difference, and chooses the darkness. Read, Genesis 3:6&7
Q.1 How is the eye the lamp of the body?
Q.2 What does Jesus mean by healthy eyes?
Q.3 When did Adam and Eve realize that they had sinned?
Q.4 How would one describe unhealthy eyes?
Q.5 What does Jesus mean by saying, “how great is that darkness”?
Q.6 Can we identify some of the things that promote darkness,(unrighteousness)?
Q.7 Can we identify some of the things that promote light, (righteousness)?
Pg.3
Mat 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
There was the rich ruler who met with Jesus and told him that he followed all of the ten commandments but still asked what he must do to inherit eternal life. Was told by Jesus to sell all that he had and give the money to the poor, then come and follow him. The man passed on that suggestion giving up his salvation for riches. Such an addiction is not uncommon in our world today. We too are to be tested to that extent. If there is anything in this world to which we become so attached, or addicted as to make us want to give up our salvation, then that is our master.
For this reason covetousness is called idolatry (read Colossians. 3:5), and the covetous person an idolater (read Ephesians. 5:5). Whatever a man sets his heart upon, making it his true happiness, that is his lord and god.. They neglect the service of God for the earning of money and take greater delight in earthly things than in heavenly graces: (read Genesis 37:20) They derive more satisfaction from them than from Divine ordinances: Their loss of earthly goods produces greater vexation and sorrow than all the Divine promises produce comfort. We find our comfort in people places and things, and curse the loss of them. While we should actually find our comfort in the presence of God in our lives, and our willingness to serve his purposes wherever we are, and in the things of God that can give to us eternal delight by being forever in the presence of God and his Son. (read Joshua 24:15 )
Q.1 How do times we live now, influence our choice of master?
Q.2 Name the deciding factors in choosing God or mammon?
Q.3 What is there to help us choose the way of the world?
Q.4 Name some choices where we aren’t aware of right and wrong?
Q.5 In Joseph’s story, what choices are considered by his brothers?
Gen 37:23 So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe--the ornate robe he was wearing--24 and they took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it. 25 As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt. 26 Judah said to his brothers, "What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27 Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood." His brothers agreed.
Q.6 When are we most vulnerable to such dire conditions?
Q.7 And in what ways do we choose to serve God?
Q.8 What is our driving force in serving God?
Pg.4
Mat 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
Mat 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
All of life on earth is given by God, and we human beings, created in his image are here to serve God. Service to God should be our primary objective. God has concerns for mankind, first because we are his creation, and second because he has been betrayed by us through our sinful nature. However God does not worry about his creation. God is concerned about us and His concerns were such that he provided the means of our reconciliation.
Jeremiah 29:11 &12 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
Worry distracts us; Concern focuses us. Concern clarifies our purpose. Concern pinpoints problems. Worry focuses on self; Concern cares for others.
Worry is a definable psychological condition, a state of anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems. Concern is a conscious understanding that a matter will occur, and how to prepare for it, or avoid it. As we mature we learn that those things that worried us as a youth, now seem petty and far removed. As we grow older, the content and character of our worries change. We need to be able to harness our worries and turn them into concerns. We can then ask God through prayer to help us to see the world’s larger picture. I believe that even Jesus had concerns, but they were not worries. Jesus was concerned about his disciples, but he did not worry about them, he prepared them. (read Mat_7:15 Mat_10:16)
I believe Jesus meant that we are not to let worry interfere with our relationship with God (read Rom. 8:32): (and 2Pet.1:3-4)
Q.1 How would one compare the time of Jesus to our world today?
Q.2 When the declaration of independence was written what were our concerns then?
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident,……………..
Q.3 What are our concerns as a nation today?
Q.4 What do you feel are the main concerns of our world today?
Q.5 How have our concerns about our relationship with God changed?
Pg.5
Mat 6:27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
If we would be truly wise we must cease leaning unto our own understanding and be directed by the Word of God in all things, and in all things practice moderation. Read Philippians 4: 6-9.
In our world today, there is no end to the things that we can worry about. Many are legitimate concerns. But do they deserve us destroying our health by committing our very life to them? Jesus is telling us that our priorities are not right. We care too much for our material goods and our money, and what it can do for us. It is turning us away from God toward materialism.
Mankind was not created to be dependent only upon the providence of God for our sustenance, as with Adam and Eve, God intends for us to be responsible for our life and our life choices, and we are to do the work to which God has called. That is how God intended it to be. When we were created, God gave us his best, and we were to care for it, take dominion over it and grow it. But God did not intend for it to rule our lives. That is sin.
Worry is a means of missing the plan of salvation that God through Jesus has made for us. That plan does not include a provision for worrying. Worry is sin in it’s most subtle disguise. God’s plan does have a provision for concern though. It is called prayer.
Q.1 Why is Jesus emphasizing clothes, what do clothes have to do with anything?
Q.2 What is there about life that causes us to want more and better?
Q.3 Should we not be all the more concerned about our souls?
Q.4 Over what aspects of our lives are we in complete control?
Q.5 What meaning is Jesus trying to convey to us with these verses?
Closing Prayer………….. and prayer requests
Father God Be with us now as we leave this place, we ask that your eyes follow us and keep us safe as we go on our way. Guide us in our journey of life for this, yet another year. And give to us, day by day, continued fellowship with thy son Jesus. Make us responsive to your Holy Spirit so that we may become a faithful servant in doing thy will as we live each day. And now be merciful to us as we travel this night, and until we meet again. Through Jesus Your son we offer this prayer, Amen
Bible Verses Pg.6
(Psalms. 119: v. 98 & 105), "Thou through Thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies" "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path"
Genesis 3: 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Genesis 37:20 "Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams." 26 Judah said to his brothers, "What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27 Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood." His brothers agreed. 28 So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.
Joshua 24:15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
Matthew 7:15 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
Matthew 10:16 "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Romans 8:32 "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things!"
2Peter.1:3-4 (3) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (4) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Philippians 4: 6-8 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things God of peace will be with you.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."
Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:28 God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground."
Friday, January 2, 2015
01/02/2015 Beginning 2015
Opening Prayer: Pg.1
Father God, We ask that you send your Holy Spirit forth to inspire and teach us that which you would have us to learn from this study. We ask your blessings on each one here tonight with another year of good health and life. Inspire us to be your followers and to seek the good in all things. Be with those of our friends and fellow Christians that are sick or bereaved, or away for other reasons. We ask that you share our blessing with them. And now please guide us tonight as we worship you in this, our bible study.
In The name of Jesus we pray, Amen
--------------------------------Scripture reading-----------------------------------------
Mat 6:22 "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
Mat 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Mat 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
Mat 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Mat 6:27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
Mat 6:28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
Mat 6:29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
Mat 6:30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith?
Mat 6:31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
Mat 6:32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
Mat 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Mat 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Closing Prayer………….. and prayer requests
Father God Be with us now as we leave this place, we ask that your eyes follow us and keep us safe as we go on our way. Guide us in our journey of life for this, yet another year. And give to us, day by day, continued fellowship with thy son Jesus. Make us responsive to your Holy Spirit so that we may become a faithful servant in doing thy will as we live each day. And now be merciful to us as we travel this night, and until we meet again. Through Jesus Your son we offer this prayer, Amen
Scripture study Pg.2
Mat 6:22 "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
Our eyes behold that which is presented to us, and we take in that which we see. What is seen, cannot be unseen, but it does not have to be observed. And as did Adam and Eve, we are free to see and observe all that God has created, but there are stipulations. Some of those things can be too costly, and our soul is the price we have to pay for that indiscretion. The observance of that which God has forbidden is clearly noted in His Word. There are those things which when seen, are not to be studied or taken into our hearts. Things that are detrimental to our loyalty to God and which can be detrimental to our souls. read(Psalms. 119: v. 98 & 105),
Jesus’ statement about unhealthy eyes is in reference to that which some may see as pleasing, or satisfying, but which opens us to a condition where sin may be glorified. And there are those things which are there for us to see which might make us prideful, covetous, jealous or envious, even to such an extent as to have us respond in anger.
It is what we see and choose to allow to come into our heart,, that makes the difference between a healthy, righteous lifestyle, and an unhealthy view of the world. Even more so should it befall one who knows the difference, and chooses the darkness. Read, Genesis 3:6&7
Q.1 How is the eye the lamp of the body?
Q.2 What does Jesus mean by healthy eyes?
Q.3 Adam and Eve knew they had sinned, but when did they realize it?
Q.4 How would one describe unhealthy eyes?
Q.5 What is meant by the whole body being full of darkness?
Q.6 What does Jesus mean by saying, “how great is that darkness”?
Q.7 Can we identify some of the things that allow darkness into our body?
Q.8 Can we identify some of the things that allow light into our body?
Pg.3
Mat 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
There are two choices given here, one is serving God, the way of Christ, the other is serving mammon, the way of the world. It is God’s world that we live in, but man has made choices that have released Satan’s evil throughout the world. And we cannot abide in both worlds. But the choice is ours. And from the fact that God and mammon are here opposed as two "masters," we may learn that "mammon," is a great lord in the world, and therefore does Christ warn us against the same.
For this reason is covetousness called idolatry (read Colossians. 3:5), and the covetous person an idolater (read Ephesians. 5:5). Whatever a man sets his heart upon, making it his true happiness, that is his lord and god.. They neglect the service of God for the earning of money and take greater delight in earthly things than in heavenly graces: (read Genesis 37:20) They derive more satisfaction from them than from Divine ordinances: Their loss of earthly goods produces greater vexation and sorrow than all the Divine promises produce comfort. We find our comfort in people places and things, and curse the loss of them. While we should actually find our comfort in the presence of God in our lives, and our willingness to serve his purposes wherever we are, and in the things of God that can give to us eternal delight by being forever in the presence of God and his Son.
(Read Joshua 24:15 )
Q.1 How can the times we live in today influence our choice of master?
Q.2 When making a choice between God and mammon what are the deciding factors?
Q.3 What are some instances where we choose to serve the way of the world?
Q.4 Are the choices always presented with a clear understanding of right and wrong?
Q.5 What choices were considered by Joseph’s brothers?
Q.6 When are we most vulnerable to these conditions?
Q.7 And by comparison, in what ways do we choose to serve God?
Q.8 What is our driving force in serving God?
Pg.4
Mat 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
Mat 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
All of life on earth is given by God, and even the animals are here to serve our purposes, and we human beings, created in his image are here to serve God. And service to God should be our primary objective.
The difference between worry and concern;
Worry distracts us; Concern focuses us.
Worry disables our planning; Concern helps us plan.
Worry blurs our vision; Concern clarifies our purpose.
Worry tends to give up; Concern perseveres.
Worry exaggerates; Concern pinpoints problems.
Worry focuses on self; Concern cares for others.
Worry is a definable psychological condition, a state of anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems. Concern is a conscious understanding that a matter will occur, and how to prepare for it, or avoid it. As we mature we learn that those things that concern us as a youth, now seem petty and far removed. As we grow older, the content and character of our concerns change. We begin to see the world’s larger picture. I believe that even Jesus had concerns. Jesus was concerned about his disciples, but he did not worry about them, he prepared them. (read Mat_7:15 Mat_10:16)
I believe Jesus meant that we are not to let worry interfere with our concerns about our relationship with God (read Rom. 8:32): (and 2Pet.1:3-4)
Q.1 How would one compare these verses to the time of Jesus and to our world today?
Q.2 When the declaration of independence was written what were our concerns then?
Q.3 What are our concerns as a nation today?
Q.4 What do you feel are the main concerns of our world today?
Q.5 How have our concerns about our relationship with God changed?
Q.6 As a Christian, what can one do to keep from worrying?
Pg.5
Mat 6:27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you--you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
We live in a day where there have never been so many choices and as much stuff as we have. Just stuff, commodities, and products. And in America we probably have more than any other part of the world. Modern technology has increased our ability to make and or buy anything we ever desire, short of life itself, and we are closing in on that. But do you know what it’s revealed? We still do not feel comfortable, we want more and better, new products, new fashions, more and better stuff. And we are losing our independence, our freedoms, and our righteousness. Our desire for self gratification has taken our souls captive. We now worship the new technology.
Jesus is telling us that our priorities are not right. We care too much for our material goods and our money, and what it can do for us. It is turning us away from God toward materialism (mammon)
It is our place in creation to be dependent upon the providence of God, as that is how God intended it to be. When we were created, God gave us his best, and we were to care for it, take dominion over it and grow it. But God did not intend for it to rule our lives. God does not intend for us to fail to use the talent that he has given each of us, but he does intend for us to continue in serving him in all that we do, say and feel. Even down to the clothes we wear. Science is now on the verge of creating life. It can already clone life, but If we would be truly wise we must cease leaning unto our own understanding and be directed by the Word of God in all things, and in all things practice moderation. Read Philippians 4: 4,5&6
Q.1 Why is Jesus emphasizing clothes?
Q.2 What is there about life that causes us to want more and better?
Q.3 Should we not be more concerned about our souls?
Q.4 What is there about our lives that we can control?
Q.5 What meaning is Jesus trying to convey to us with these verses?
Pg.6
Bible Verses
(Psalms. 119: v. 98 & 105), "Thou through Thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies" "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path"
Genesis 3: 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Genesis 37:20 "Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams." 26 Judah said to his brothers, "What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27 Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood." His brothers agreed. 28 So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.
Joshua 24:15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
Matthew 7:15 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
Matthew 10:16 "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Romans 8:32 "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things!"
2Peter.1:3-4 (3) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (4) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."
Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:28 God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground."
Meditation Pg.7
Our eyes are the windows to the world. If one is blind, only those with sight can see what that one may be missing. But to understand that concept one must consider a blind person having sight restored that if one has never seen a cow, an apple, or a bear, or a written word, what reference does one have for recognizing anything that person may see. That person would need someone to help with learning to recognize what is seen,
Righteousness and Sin are like that as well, having never seen or experienced it, one might not recognize it unless there were someone to explain it. Jesus is that someone who helps us to recognize our world, and what righteousness might look like, and how to recognize sin before we involve ourselves with it. The way the world is today, one needs all the help available to avoid the sin and wrong that pervades our society today. We are not always prepared to deal with it. Just imagine what would have happened had Adam or Eve recognized the serpent as a sinful representation of the wrong that can enter a persons life through conscious thought. What would have taken place then?
And as for two masters, we need no explanation to know how people, places and things have an influence on our lives. But one does not realize how attached one is to these things until they are taken away. To get a proper understanding of this one might imagine being addicted to something, or someone, then having to do without it for the rest of one’s life. That is one motivation for a woman becoming a Nun, or a man becoming a Monk. Separating ones self from those things that cause us to sin is what Jesus is trying to teach us.
It is startling how addicted people can become to certain drugs and substances. And just as addictive is the desire for great wealth and what it can do to keep a grip on the person who has it. That is one reason that Jesus said that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to get into Heaven.
Then there is the addiction one has to individuals. “Stalkers” is a familiar term for an attraction one might have for another person, for whatever reason. There are also people to whom one might become so attached as to desire to always have them near us, or that we would sell our souls to have as a companion. Whether or not the matter becomes addictive is easily determined. Just as Jesus in speaking with the rich ruler who asked what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus told him to sell all that he had and give the money to the poor, then come and follow him. The man passed on that suggestion giving up his salvation for riches. Such an addiction is not uncommon in our world today. We too are to be tested to that extent. If there is anything in this world to which we become so attached, or addicted as to make us want to give up our salvation, then that is our master.
Concerning worry, One might be able to recollect a time in life where a matter became so worrisome as to drive us to some type of desperate thought, word, or deed. There is no such matter short of death which should exert such pressure on an individual as to cause such actions. Looking back to one’s worst nightmare, it might now be just a memory, or it may have been fused into ones mind as a disaster, but there are remedies. One is to allow that it has no affect on one’s future, another is to have learned from it such that one would never again have it happen. Then there is the ultimate worrier who brings all problems forward with them into their future. All that one can do is to continue to live and as much as possible put such temptation to worry behind you and go on with life. The temptation to worry is a temptation to sin. One must realize that in Heaven there is no place dedicated to worry, God does not sanction it, nor does he tolerate any of it. There should be as well, no place in one’s life where it would flourish. God does not want to be replaced in your mind with such a thing as worry. Learn from it commit it to memory then forget to remember it. Heaven has no place for a worrier. God’s concerns are to be our concerns as well. Nothing outside of Godly Christian concern should occupy one’s thoughts. Earnest Prayer should be one’s immediate resort when worry begins in our life.
For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter, though a man's misery weighs heavily upon him (Eccl 8:6).
How we use our time is a good indicator of the god we choose to serve. There is a god whose name is "the urgent" that can rule our lives if we are not diligent
Q.1 What is the driving force behind a spoiled belligerent child?
Pray during and between all your other duties. One must learn to take this time moment by moment. You will soon find these moments of prayer become the most fruitful part of your day.
Q.2 How is your time with God determined?
The amount of time we spend with anyone or any activity is a good indicator of the value we place on that person or activity. Time equates to money for some. For others it can be a cruel dictator. It is the physical evidence of what is at the center of our lives. Q.3 Who or What is it that takes the most of your time?
Thursday, November 27, 2014
A study of the Lords Prayer (2) sessions
A study of the Lords prayer
Opening prayer
Father God we ask your blessing on this study tonight. Let no word be spoken here that is not in accordance with your will. Guide our thoughts and words, that we may learn those things that you would have us learn from this study. We pray that your peace and comfort be with those of us who are sick or disabled and cannot be here tonight. We ask that you share our blessing with them. Lead us now and give us understanding as we study the teachings of Jesus, The word of God..
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
A study of the Lords Prayer Pg.1
Mat 6:5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
Q.1 Who are the hypocrites of whom Jesus is speaking?
Q.2 Why is Jesus referring to the hypocrites? Q.3 What is the reward they have of which Jesus speaks?
Mat 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Q.1 Why does Jesus tell us to do our praying in private?
Q.2 What is the effect of private prayer on our prayer life?
Q.3 What is the meaning of Jesus comment The Father will reward you?
Mat 6:7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.
Mat 6:8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
Q.1 What reference is Jesus using to describe a pagans prayer?
Q.2 What are your feelings about this topic “Babbling Prayers”?
Q.3 Why not just pray for our needs to be met, if God already knows our prayer needs?
Mat 6:9 "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
In our first petition we simply address God by the identity that he has conveyed to us, much the same as we might address our own father, God has many names that have been ascribed to him over the years and by many religions.
The name of God, as revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures, is YHWH. The vast majority of Hebrew and Christian scholars believe the name to be Yahweh, pronounced yä-wā, with Yehowah, pronounced yi-hō-va, or Jehovah, being the second most popular possibility.
Many Bible scholars understand YHWH to be more of a description of who God is. “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Just as His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8–9), and just as no one can know His mind (Romans 11:33 & 34), perhaps the same is true of His Name. Jesus as he died on the cross called out to God "Eloi, Eloi,, Mar 15:34
and The Prayer Given to us by Jesus addresses God as our Father. And indeed God does care for and about each of us. (Isaiah49:16)
Then we acknowledge God as we greatly revere his omnipotent Holiness with the word Hallowed. God’s name and nature are inseparable. His name is revered in heaven and on earth.
Q.1 How is it that the reverence conveyed to us by Jesus to call God our Father has more than just a personal concept ?
Pg.2
“Abba” implies intimacy, a relationship of love and trust, as a father for his children. There is no parallel in Jewish literature for addressing God in this way. “Our Father”
Q.2 How may I live so that my belonging to “Our Father” will inspire others to do the same?
“In Heaven” As Christians we are united with Christ. Our lives even now are “in Christ,” and as such we already belong to heaven. …..Someone please read (Eph. 2: 4-8).
Q.3 Where is Heaven?, What does it look like? Someone please read the references
(I Cor. 2:9).? How does (Revelation 21:17-23) describe it?
“Hallowed be thy name” Set apart, honored, revered and respected as holy – when we begin to praise God for his grace, power and love as Father, then the name of the Father is being hallowed by being made first and central by me and by others. Christian maturity consists, in large measure, of overcoming the temptation to put ourselves at the center of our lives and our prayers.
Q.4 What must first apply to a Christian before calling on the hallowed Name of Our God”?
Our second petition is a request from us asking God to bring his earth into a kingdom reality not as a detached “other place where God sits in Judgment and from which he rules” But as a
Sanctified place of abode, such as a child might view their home, a fortress a safe place one where there is no evil intent, where in the bosom of God all are rested in peace and purity and where the love of God abounds. Where his will is taken as the pattern of life forever after.
Q.5 How does this description fit with your idea of what Heaven might be like?
Mat 6:10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
To pray “Thy kingdom come” is to acknowledge that God has charged us to make his kingdom known in word and deed. It is the vocation of every Christian to show the world by how we live what the kingdom of God will be like when it comes in all its fullness.
Q.6 How do we as Christian disciples of Jesus show God’s Kingdom to the world?
“Thy will be done on earth” As intended by Jesus,” expresses neither resentment nor resignation, but confidence and trust in God’s will for all the circumstances of our lives, Reaching such a state will require nothing less on our part than obeying Paul’s command, (Rom. 12:2).
Q.7 What are the difficulties with “not conforming to the patterns of this world”?
Q.8 What are some of the things of this world that bring those patterns to our doorstep?
“As it is in heaven” Here Jesus teaches us that God’s purposes are more important than our own. That we are to seek his will before we seek to have our own desires. Praying as Jesus taught his disciples will order our own lives around the presence, power and provision of God rather than those things that the world offers and expects us to worship.
Q.9 What are some of “those things” that the world offers and expects us to seek after?
Q.10 How can we reflect God’s kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven?
Meditation Pg.3
Your Kingdom come”
We should have this burning desire within us for the coming of God’s kingdom; that the name of God may be glorified and magnified over all. When Christ is recognized and obeyed in our lives there are many blessings of the kingdom which are ours. So there is an extensive and intensive dimension to this prayer. Regarding the extensive dimension we should want to see the kingdom become more widespread. Regarding the intensive dimension we should work toward a more mature faith so that we might increasingly acknowledge God as sovereign ruler in our lives. It is only when the heavenly Father, on the basis of the Son’s atonement, and through the operation of the Holy Spirit, rules in people’s hearts that the kingdom has truly come. So this aspect of the Lord’s Prayer reflects an earnest desire for the coming of the reign of God in human hearts. Because it is only partly fulfilled this prayer is still relevant today and will continue to be relevant until the Lord returns. Although the kingdom is already here in one sense it nevertheless is still absent in many hearts today. The real prayer of many hearts today is my kingdom come! This is the ardent yearning of people that aspire to self-gratification. Many people are too busy building their own personal, commercial empires and are not bothered with the kingdom of God. It takes the transforming grace and power of God to enable people to say, ‘Your kingdom come’. It is only then that God’s desires, priorities and values become ours. The Christian church must uphold the principles of the kingdom of God by being a people of benevolence and blessing.
“...your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven…”
The appropriate attitude of prayer is one which accepts the will of God. Our attitude should be that his will is preferable to ours. This implies an acknowledgement that our wishes and desires are imperfect. This is a prayer that his will would be unhindered. In heaven the will of God is always being performed perfectly. In heaven the will of God is gladly and unconditionally accepted by all. In heaven the will of God is continuously obeyed by all. In heaven the will of God is spontaneously obeyed by all. In heaven the will of God is joyfully obeyed by all. It should be our ardent desire that the Lord’s will be done as heartily and as immediately as it is in heaven. In this part of the Lord’s Prayer we are seeking to bring our minds and hearts and wills under the lordship of Christ so that his will is unobstructed and enacted without delay. Certainly there may be times in our lives when we have difficulty discerning the will of the Lord in particular circumstances, perhaps relating to career, marriage partner and a host of other areas. Life is complex. Not everything is black and white and the answers to our dilemmas are not always clear cut. The Bible does not give us unequivocal answers to all of the questions or predicaments we face. But it does provide us with sound principles and frequently very specific advice on many issues. We find advice there on our roles, responsibilities and relationships. We can find advice about what to do and what not to do. This is the wisest of all prayers in various circumstances and we should be content to accept his perfect will in all situations. Praying like this demands faith and confidence in God.
Bible Verses Pg.4
Exodus 3:14God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'"
Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?"
Isa 49:16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.
Mark 15:34 And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" (which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?").
Ephesians 2:4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,
Eph 2:5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
1Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"-- the things God has prepared for those who love him—
Revelation 21:18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.
19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. 22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with those of our group ( speak the names of those needing prayer)_who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them.. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way. In Jesus Name we pray Amen
2nd Study
Opening Prayer Pg.1
God of our salvation, as we come into your presence with fear and trembling, we also come in the joy of being in your service, of spending time in Your word, learning in fellowship among like followers of Your Son Jesus. We are thankful for your word in our study of The Sermon On The Mount, as given to us by Jesus. We pray that our fellowship today will bless each one here and give each of us joy and purpose that we may be useful vessels in your service. Be with those of our group who cannot be here today, we pray you will share our blessing with them. Be with those of us who are suffering illness and those who care for them. Restore their health and bring them back into our midst.
In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen
Luk 11:1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."
Luk 11:2 He said to them, "When you pray, say: "'Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.
Luk 11:3 Give us each day our daily bread.
Luk 11:4 Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.'"
Luk 11:5 Then Jesus said to them, "Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread;
Luk 11:6 a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.'
Luk 11:7 And suppose the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.'
Luk 11:8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.
Luk 11:9 "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Luk 11:10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened
This Prayer, Luke’s version of the teaching given to us by Jesus, is a guide to prayer given to the disciples as the answer to their request that he teach them how to pray. It becomes the Disciples of Christ to apply themselves to him for instruction in prayer. This version is somewhat different from Matthews version of it, yet it covers all of the subject matter. One will notice that the prayer is contained in only three verses in this account by Luke. Three verses, that say everything needed as Jesus taught it. Whereas in Matthew it is given in five verses that say the same things. . The study of the differences in the two versions is another study altogether and we will not do that in this study.
And then Jesus begins to explain by parable how it is that God is not just waiting around for us to make requests of him. It is Gods delight to hear our petitions and it becomes us if we learn to persist in prayer. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Pg.2
Mat 6:11 Give us today our daily bread.
Our third petition is a plea to God for spiritual and earthly nourishment. Just as God did not give us all our days at one time, he does not give all of our spiritual needs at once nor are we given our physical nourishment all at once, it comes to us daily, and even more blessed when we ask God for it day by day This third request is the first of the petitions that we make to God to give to us, to forgive us, to lead us, and to deliver us.
(Exodus 16: 4-12) God does this daily. His plan also includes the condition, that we listen to his instruction (Deuteronomy 8:3) This does not mean that we expect God to literally rain down manna on us but that we understand He is the one who makes our spiritual life and our work fruitful. It is his desire to have fellowship with us day by day.
Give us today; The desire to be Gods child is ever before the Christian. But that too is a gift from God, and must be given by God to us day by day. (Ephesians 2: 8)
Q.1 why can we not be given our daily needs on a yearly basis?
Our Daily Bread; From the beginning of the Bible to the end, God is seen as the giver of life. Jesus does not say that he gives this life-giving gift but that he himself is the true bread from heaven, the food that is essential if God’s people are to have a spiritual life. Thus we have Jesus as our daily sustenance day by day.
Our Deepest Hunger. Only Jesus can satisfy our deepest hunger, which is that which gives life to and sustains the human spirit. The meaning of this scripture is that as the body lives by bread, so the soul lives by the word of God. The doctrines of the gospel are given to us as the word of God. Please read John 1:1 and John 6:35.
Q.1 The Israelites were given manna daily, but what else did they learn?
Q.2 How would one compare this request to that of the Israelites while wandering in the wilderness for forty years having “mana” given to them as “daily bread”?
Q.3 In our world today what would you say is the deepest need for God in our life?
Q.4 What did Jesus mean when he said Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God?
Q.5 What is there about our daily walk with Jesus that sets a Christian apart from what the world feeds to us daily?
Q.6 There are many people who seem to be perfectly at ease and sustaining themselves comfortably without Jesus, or the worship of God. How are Christians concerned with that, and why?
Q.7 There was a condition that God stated for this daily sustenance. What is it.?
Q.8 Do you feel that there is that condition in effect today?
Q.9 Does this prayer and God’s condition apply to our nation today? Read (Isaiah 1:17-20)
Q.10 What do you feel is the life lesson in this discussion of our daily bread?
Pg.3
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Our fourth petition is a request that God forgive our debts (or sins) as we have forgiven others who owe us a debt or who have sinned against us.
There are many interpretations that can carry us off subject with this verse which contains two requests. One of them, a conditional statement. (as we have forgiven others)
Forgiving debt means that the one who owes, does not have to pay, or the one who has been given a release from a burden, will owe no one for it.
God forgives freely, and so must we. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Col. 3:13). One way to bring to mind our constant need to conform this part of our lives to God’s will is to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”- Q.1 “As we forgive our debtors”, what meaning is conveyed with this phrase?
Q.2 In our Lords Prayer that the Pastor has each Sunday, we use the word “sin”, in lieu of the word “debt” is there a difference?
Q.3 Forgiving one who owes us something tangible, (such as money), may be easier than forgiving someone who has wronged us, ( sinned against us), How do you feel about that?
Q.4 Judgment will not be passed against us for our sins, they are forgiven. How is this done? Please explain this to me where I might get a better understanding of it?
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'
In our 5th petition, Satan is called the accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10) because he likes to make us feel as if God has not forgiven us. But guilt is an objective reality, and if we have turned to Jesus, we have been cleansed — objectively, truly, and in reality. If you think the Lord holds your past against you, pray for deliverance from the evil one and know that you are forgiven. Even though the Lord does not allure us with sin, the Bible is clear He allows His people to go through times of testing. For example, Jesus Himself was tested in the wilderness by Satan. (Matt. 4:1–11).
When we ask God to lead us not into temptation, we are imploring Him to guide us away from any temptation so enticing that we cannot resist it, (An offer that we cannot refuse). And yet every step we take is one where temptation lurks. There is no moment of our life that is not a moment of temptation, and at that same time how we respond is a response to God. The Lord’s prayer does not teach us to pray against that kind of sovereign guidance. What it teaches us to pray is that the temptation does not take us in. Don’t allow me to be lead into any temptation that is beyond my capacity to resist. Deliver me from this evil that is set before me.
Q.1 Temptation is an urge to do or say or have something. What else do we know about it?
Q.2 Why would God have allowed Jesus to be tempted?
Q.3 God does not make temptation for us, but it is here for us, so what do we do about it?
Q.4 List some of the temptations that the world has for us, even from birth?
Q.5 How are we to resist the evil that is associated with temptation?
Q.6 What was God’s immediate response to Jesus’ having been tempted?
Pg.4
The "For thine is the Kingdom, Power and Glory forever " is technically termed a doxology. In the Bible, we find the practice of concluding prayers with a short, hymn-like verse which exalts the glory of God. An example similar to the doxology in question is found in David's prayer located in 1 Chronicles 29:11 of the Old Testament. The Jews frequently used these doxologies to conclude prayers at the time of Our Lord.
Q.1 When we refer to God’s Kingdom, can it be described? See Revelation 21:18-23
Q.2 When we refer to God’s Power, can it be described? See Jeremiah 10:12&13
Q.2 When we refer to God’s Glory, can it be described? See Exodus 33:19-23
Meditation
“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”
These uplifting and sublime words bring a sense of poetic closure to the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus gave this prayer as a model for real prayer. It was different from the prayers of the Pharisees and heathen. It is not to be said hypocritically. It is not to be said mechanically. The problem with the hypocrite is selfishness. Even in his prayers he is obsessed with his own self-image and how he looks in the eyes of the beholder. But in this prayer Christians are preoccupied with God; his name and honor, his kingdom, his power and his glory. Our prayers are to be saturated with a sense of his glory. As such it is the exact opposite of the exhibitionism of the hypocrites. They used prayer as a vehicle for their own glory. The error of the heathen is mindless babbling empty, meaningless words. This prayer is God-centered, not self-centered. This prayer is intelligent, in contrast to the mechanical incantations of the heathen. It is intelligent in the sense that it engages the mind to express a thoughtful dependence on God. Therefore when we come to God in prayer we are to be focused on him not those around us. We are not to be engaged in seeking to please or impress others or try to gain their approval. We are not to indulge in mechanical mindless mutterings. The fundamental difference between right and wrong praying rests in the different images of God which underpin them. The tragic mistake of hypocrites and heathen is to be found in their false image of God. God is our Father in heaven. He loves his children with deep and tender affection. He is approachable and available and loves to listen to his children.
Bible Verses Pg.5
Exodus 6: 4 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, I am about to rain bread from heaven for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day’s portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not.
Deuteronomy 8:3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Colossians. 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty
Isaiah 1:17-20 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. 18 "Come now, let us settle the matter," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword." For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
1Ch 29:11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.
Revelation 21:18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.
19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. 22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
Pg.6
Jeremiah 10:12 But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. 13 When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; he makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.
Exodus 33:18 Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory." 19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 20 But," he said, "you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live." 21 Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. 22 When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen."
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with those of our group
( speak the names of those needing prayer)_who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them.. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
THE NAMES OF GOD
OLD TESTAMENT NAMES FOR GOD
ELOHIM......Genesis 1:1, Psalm 19:1meaning "God", a reference to God's power and might.
ADONAI......Malachi 1:6meaning "Lord", a reference to the Lordship of God.
JEHOVAH--YAHWEH.....Genesis 2:4a reference to God's divine salvation.
JEHOVAH-MACCADDESHEM.......Exodus 31:13meaning "The Lord thy sanctifier"
JEHOVAH-ROHI......Psalm 23:1meaning "The Lord my shepherd"
JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH.......Ezekiel 48:35meaning "The Lord who is present"
JEHOVAH-RAPHA.........Exodus 15:26meaning "The Lord our healer"
JEHOVAH-TSIDKENU......Jeremiah 23:6meaning "The Lord our righteousness"
JEHOVAH-JIREH.........Genesis 22:13-14meaning "The Lord will provide"
JEHOVAH-NISSI.........Exodus 17:15meaning "The Lord our banner"
JEHOVAH-SHALOM........Judges 6:24meaning "The Lord is peace"
JEHOVAH-SABBAOTH......Isaiah 6:1-3meaning "The Lord of Hosts"
JEHOVAH-GMOLAH........Jeremiah 51:6meaning "The God of Recompense"
EL-ELYON..............Genesis 14:17-20,Isaiah 14:13-14meaning "The most high God
EL-ROI................Genesis 16:13meaning "The strong one who sees"
EL-SHADDAI............Genesis 17:1,Psalm 91:1meaning "The God of the mountains or God Almighty"
EL-OLAM...............Isaiah 40:28-31meaning "The everlasting God"
YAH........................................Isaiah 12:2(kjv),Psalm 68:4(nkjv)
EL, ELOAH: God "mighty, strong, prominent" (Genesis 7:1; Isaiah 9:6) – etymologically, El appears to mean “power,” as in “I have the power to harm you” (Genesis 31:29). El is associated with other qualities, such as integrity (Numbers 23:19), jealousy (Deuteronomy 5:9), and compassion (Nehemiah 9:31), but the root idea of might remains.
ELOHIM: God “Creator, Mighty and Strong” (Genesis 17:7; Jeremiah 31:33) – the plural form of Eloah, which accommodates the doctrine of the Trinity. From the Bible’s first sentence, the superlative nature of God’s power is evident as God (Elohim) speaks the world into existence (Genesis 1:1).
EL SHADDAI: “God Almighty,” “The Mighty One of Jacob” (Genesis 49:24; Psalm 132:2,5) – speaks to God’s ultimate power over all.
ADONAI: “Lord” (Genesis 15:2; Judges 6:15) – used in place of YHWH, which was thought by the Jews to be too sacred to be uttered by sinful men. In the Old Testament, YHWH is more often used in God’s dealings with His people, while Adonai is used more when He deals with the Gentiles.
YHWH / YAHWEH / JEHOVAH: “LORD” (Deuteronomy 6:4; Daniel 9:14) – strictly speaking, the only proper name for God. Translated in English Bibles “LORD” (all capitals) to distinguish it from Adonai, “Lord.” The revelation of the name is first given to Moses “I Am who I Am” (Exodus 3:14). This name specifies an immediacy, a presence. Yahweh is present, accessible, near to those who call on Him for deliverance (Psalm 107:13), forgiveness (Psalm 25:11) and guidance (Psalm 31:3).
YAHWEH-JIREH: "The Lord Will Provide" (Genesis 22:14) – the name memorialized by Abraham when God provided the ram to be sacrificed in place of Isaac.
YAHWEH-RAPHA: "The Lord Who Heals" (Exodus 15:26) – “I am Jehovah who heals you” both in body and soul. In body, by preserving from and curing diseases, and in soul, by pardoning iniquities.
YAHWEH-NISSI: "The Lord Our Banner" (Exodus 17:15), where banner is understood to be a rallying place. This name commemorates the desert victory over the Amalekites in Exodus 17.
YAHWEH-M'KADDESH: "The Lord Who Sanctifies, Makes Holy" (Leviticus 20:8; Ezekiel 37:28) – God makes it clear that He alone, not the law, can cleanse His people and make them holy.
YAHWEH-SHALOM: "The Lord Our Peace" (Judges 6:24) – the name given by Gideon to the altar he built after the Angel of the Lord assured him he would not die as he thought he would after seeing Him.
YAHWEH-ELOHIM: "LORD God" (Genesis 2:4; Psalm 59:5) – a combination of God’s unique name YHWH and the generic “Lord,” signifying that He is the Lord of Lords.
YAHWEH-TSIDKENU: "The Lord Our Righteousness” (Jeremiah 33:16) – As with YHWH-M’Kaddesh, it is God alone who provides righteousness to man, ultimately in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for us “that we might become the Righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
YAHWEH-ROHI: "The Lord Our Shepherd" (Psalm 23:1) – After David pondered his relationship as a shepherd to his sheep, he realized that was exactly the relationship God had with him, and so he declares, “Yahweh-Rohi is my Shepherd. I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
YAHWEH-SHAMMAH: "The Lord Is There” (Ezekiel 48:35) – the name ascribed to Jerusalem and the Temple there, indicating that the once-departed glory of the Lord (Ezekiel 8—11) had returned (Ezekiel 44:1-4).
YAHWEH-SABAOTH: "The Lord of Hosts" (Isaiah 1:24; Psalm 46:7) – Hosts means “hordes,” both of angels and of men. He is Lord of the host of heaven and of the inhabitants of the earth, of Jews and Gentiles, of rich and poor, master and slave. The name is expressive of the majesty, power, and authority of God and shows that He is able to accomplish what He determines to do.
EL ELYON: “Most High" (Deuteronomy 26:19) – derived from the Hebrew root for “go up” or “ascend,” so the implication is of that which is the very highest. El Elyon denotes exaltation and speaks of absolute right to lordship.
EL ROI: "God of Seeing" (Genesis 16:13) – the name ascribed to God by Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah (Genesis 16:1-14). When Hagar met the Angel of the Lord, she realized she had seen God Himself in a theophany. She also realized that El Roi saw her in her distress and testified that He is a God who lives and sees all.
EL-OLAM: "Everlasting God" (Psalm 90:1-3) – God’s nature is without beginning or end, free from all constraints of time, and He contains within Himself the very cause of time itself. “From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”
EL-GIBHOR: “Mighty God” (Isaiah 9:6) – the name describing the Messiah, Christ Jesus, in this prophetic portion of Isaiah. As a powerful and mighty warrior, the Messiah, the Mighty God, will accomplish the destruction of God’s enemies and rule with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15
Opening prayer
Father God we ask your blessing on this study tonight. Let no word be spoken here that is not in accordance with your will. Guide our thoughts and words, that we may learn those things that you would have us learn from this study. We pray that your peace and comfort be with those of us who are sick or disabled and cannot be here tonight. We ask that you share our blessing with them. Lead us now and give us understanding as we study the teachings of Jesus, The word of God..
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
A study of the Lords Prayer Pg.1
Mat 6:5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
Q.1 Who are the hypocrites of whom Jesus is speaking?
Q.2 Why is Jesus referring to the hypocrites? Q.3 What is the reward they have of which Jesus speaks?
Mat 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Q.1 Why does Jesus tell us to do our praying in private?
Q.2 What is the effect of private prayer on our prayer life?
Q.3 What is the meaning of Jesus comment The Father will reward you?
Mat 6:7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.
Mat 6:8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
Q.1 What reference is Jesus using to describe a pagans prayer?
Q.2 What are your feelings about this topic “Babbling Prayers”?
Q.3 Why not just pray for our needs to be met, if God already knows our prayer needs?
Mat 6:9 "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
In our first petition we simply address God by the identity that he has conveyed to us, much the same as we might address our own father, God has many names that have been ascribed to him over the years and by many religions.
The name of God, as revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures, is YHWH. The vast majority of Hebrew and Christian scholars believe the name to be Yahweh, pronounced yä-wā, with Yehowah, pronounced yi-hō-va, or Jehovah, being the second most popular possibility.
Many Bible scholars understand YHWH to be more of a description of who God is. “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Just as His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8–9), and just as no one can know His mind (Romans 11:33 & 34), perhaps the same is true of His Name. Jesus as he died on the cross called out to God "Eloi, Eloi,, Mar 15:34
and The Prayer Given to us by Jesus addresses God as our Father. And indeed God does care for and about each of us. (Isaiah49:16)
Then we acknowledge God as we greatly revere his omnipotent Holiness with the word Hallowed. God’s name and nature are inseparable. His name is revered in heaven and on earth.
Q.1 How is it that the reverence conveyed to us by Jesus to call God our Father has more than just a personal concept ?
Pg.2
“Abba” implies intimacy, a relationship of love and trust, as a father for his children. There is no parallel in Jewish literature for addressing God in this way. “Our Father”
Q.2 How may I live so that my belonging to “Our Father” will inspire others to do the same?
“In Heaven” As Christians we are united with Christ. Our lives even now are “in Christ,” and as such we already belong to heaven. …..Someone please read (Eph. 2: 4-8).
Q.3 Where is Heaven?, What does it look like? Someone please read the references
(I Cor. 2:9).? How does (Revelation 21:17-23) describe it?
“Hallowed be thy name” Set apart, honored, revered and respected as holy – when we begin to praise God for his grace, power and love as Father, then the name of the Father is being hallowed by being made first and central by me and by others. Christian maturity consists, in large measure, of overcoming the temptation to put ourselves at the center of our lives and our prayers.
Q.4 What must first apply to a Christian before calling on the hallowed Name of Our God”?
Our second petition is a request from us asking God to bring his earth into a kingdom reality not as a detached “other place where God sits in Judgment and from which he rules” But as a
Sanctified place of abode, such as a child might view their home, a fortress a safe place one where there is no evil intent, where in the bosom of God all are rested in peace and purity and where the love of God abounds. Where his will is taken as the pattern of life forever after.
Q.5 How does this description fit with your idea of what Heaven might be like?
Mat 6:10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
To pray “Thy kingdom come” is to acknowledge that God has charged us to make his kingdom known in word and deed. It is the vocation of every Christian to show the world by how we live what the kingdom of God will be like when it comes in all its fullness.
Q.6 How do we as Christian disciples of Jesus show God’s Kingdom to the world?
“Thy will be done on earth” As intended by Jesus,” expresses neither resentment nor resignation, but confidence and trust in God’s will for all the circumstances of our lives, Reaching such a state will require nothing less on our part than obeying Paul’s command, (Rom. 12:2).
Q.7 What are the difficulties with “not conforming to the patterns of this world”?
Q.8 What are some of the things of this world that bring those patterns to our doorstep?
“As it is in heaven” Here Jesus teaches us that God’s purposes are more important than our own. That we are to seek his will before we seek to have our own desires. Praying as Jesus taught his disciples will order our own lives around the presence, power and provision of God rather than those things that the world offers and expects us to worship.
Q.9 What are some of “those things” that the world offers and expects us to seek after?
Q.10 How can we reflect God’s kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven?
Meditation Pg.3
Your Kingdom come”
We should have this burning desire within us for the coming of God’s kingdom; that the name of God may be glorified and magnified over all. When Christ is recognized and obeyed in our lives there are many blessings of the kingdom which are ours. So there is an extensive and intensive dimension to this prayer. Regarding the extensive dimension we should want to see the kingdom become more widespread. Regarding the intensive dimension we should work toward a more mature faith so that we might increasingly acknowledge God as sovereign ruler in our lives. It is only when the heavenly Father, on the basis of the Son’s atonement, and through the operation of the Holy Spirit, rules in people’s hearts that the kingdom has truly come. So this aspect of the Lord’s Prayer reflects an earnest desire for the coming of the reign of God in human hearts. Because it is only partly fulfilled this prayer is still relevant today and will continue to be relevant until the Lord returns. Although the kingdom is already here in one sense it nevertheless is still absent in many hearts today. The real prayer of many hearts today is my kingdom come! This is the ardent yearning of people that aspire to self-gratification. Many people are too busy building their own personal, commercial empires and are not bothered with the kingdom of God. It takes the transforming grace and power of God to enable people to say, ‘Your kingdom come’. It is only then that God’s desires, priorities and values become ours. The Christian church must uphold the principles of the kingdom of God by being a people of benevolence and blessing.
“...your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven…”
The appropriate attitude of prayer is one which accepts the will of God. Our attitude should be that his will is preferable to ours. This implies an acknowledgement that our wishes and desires are imperfect. This is a prayer that his will would be unhindered. In heaven the will of God is always being performed perfectly. In heaven the will of God is gladly and unconditionally accepted by all. In heaven the will of God is continuously obeyed by all. In heaven the will of God is spontaneously obeyed by all. In heaven the will of God is joyfully obeyed by all. It should be our ardent desire that the Lord’s will be done as heartily and as immediately as it is in heaven. In this part of the Lord’s Prayer we are seeking to bring our minds and hearts and wills under the lordship of Christ so that his will is unobstructed and enacted without delay. Certainly there may be times in our lives when we have difficulty discerning the will of the Lord in particular circumstances, perhaps relating to career, marriage partner and a host of other areas. Life is complex. Not everything is black and white and the answers to our dilemmas are not always clear cut. The Bible does not give us unequivocal answers to all of the questions or predicaments we face. But it does provide us with sound principles and frequently very specific advice on many issues. We find advice there on our roles, responsibilities and relationships. We can find advice about what to do and what not to do. This is the wisest of all prayers in various circumstances and we should be content to accept his perfect will in all situations. Praying like this demands faith and confidence in God.
Bible Verses Pg.4
Exodus 3:14God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'"
Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?"
Isa 49:16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.
Mark 15:34 And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" (which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?").
Ephesians 2:4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,
Eph 2:5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
1Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"-- the things God has prepared for those who love him—
Revelation 21:18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.
19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. 22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with those of our group ( speak the names of those needing prayer)_who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them.. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way. In Jesus Name we pray Amen
2nd Study
Opening Prayer Pg.1
God of our salvation, as we come into your presence with fear and trembling, we also come in the joy of being in your service, of spending time in Your word, learning in fellowship among like followers of Your Son Jesus. We are thankful for your word in our study of The Sermon On The Mount, as given to us by Jesus. We pray that our fellowship today will bless each one here and give each of us joy and purpose that we may be useful vessels in your service. Be with those of our group who cannot be here today, we pray you will share our blessing with them. Be with those of us who are suffering illness and those who care for them. Restore their health and bring them back into our midst.
In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen
Luk 11:1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."
Luk 11:2 He said to them, "When you pray, say: "'Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.
Luk 11:3 Give us each day our daily bread.
Luk 11:4 Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.'"
Luk 11:5 Then Jesus said to them, "Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread;
Luk 11:6 a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.'
Luk 11:7 And suppose the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.'
Luk 11:8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.
Luk 11:9 "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Luk 11:10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened
This Prayer, Luke’s version of the teaching given to us by Jesus, is a guide to prayer given to the disciples as the answer to their request that he teach them how to pray. It becomes the Disciples of Christ to apply themselves to him for instruction in prayer. This version is somewhat different from Matthews version of it, yet it covers all of the subject matter. One will notice that the prayer is contained in only three verses in this account by Luke. Three verses, that say everything needed as Jesus taught it. Whereas in Matthew it is given in five verses that say the same things. . The study of the differences in the two versions is another study altogether and we will not do that in this study.
And then Jesus begins to explain by parable how it is that God is not just waiting around for us to make requests of him. It is Gods delight to hear our petitions and it becomes us if we learn to persist in prayer. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Pg.2
Mat 6:11 Give us today our daily bread.
Our third petition is a plea to God for spiritual and earthly nourishment. Just as God did not give us all our days at one time, he does not give all of our spiritual needs at once nor are we given our physical nourishment all at once, it comes to us daily, and even more blessed when we ask God for it day by day This third request is the first of the petitions that we make to God to give to us, to forgive us, to lead us, and to deliver us.
(Exodus 16: 4-12) God does this daily. His plan also includes the condition, that we listen to his instruction (Deuteronomy 8:3) This does not mean that we expect God to literally rain down manna on us but that we understand He is the one who makes our spiritual life and our work fruitful. It is his desire to have fellowship with us day by day.
Give us today; The desire to be Gods child is ever before the Christian. But that too is a gift from God, and must be given by God to us day by day. (Ephesians 2: 8)
Q.1 why can we not be given our daily needs on a yearly basis?
Our Daily Bread; From the beginning of the Bible to the end, God is seen as the giver of life. Jesus does not say that he gives this life-giving gift but that he himself is the true bread from heaven, the food that is essential if God’s people are to have a spiritual life. Thus we have Jesus as our daily sustenance day by day.
Our Deepest Hunger. Only Jesus can satisfy our deepest hunger, which is that which gives life to and sustains the human spirit. The meaning of this scripture is that as the body lives by bread, so the soul lives by the word of God. The doctrines of the gospel are given to us as the word of God. Please read John 1:1 and John 6:35.
Q.1 The Israelites were given manna daily, but what else did they learn?
Q.2 How would one compare this request to that of the Israelites while wandering in the wilderness for forty years having “mana” given to them as “daily bread”?
Q.3 In our world today what would you say is the deepest need for God in our life?
Q.4 What did Jesus mean when he said Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God?
Q.5 What is there about our daily walk with Jesus that sets a Christian apart from what the world feeds to us daily?
Q.6 There are many people who seem to be perfectly at ease and sustaining themselves comfortably without Jesus, or the worship of God. How are Christians concerned with that, and why?
Q.7 There was a condition that God stated for this daily sustenance. What is it.?
Q.8 Do you feel that there is that condition in effect today?
Q.9 Does this prayer and God’s condition apply to our nation today? Read (Isaiah 1:17-20)
Q.10 What do you feel is the life lesson in this discussion of our daily bread?
Pg.3
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Our fourth petition is a request that God forgive our debts (or sins) as we have forgiven others who owe us a debt or who have sinned against us.
There are many interpretations that can carry us off subject with this verse which contains two requests. One of them, a conditional statement. (as we have forgiven others)
Forgiving debt means that the one who owes, does not have to pay, or the one who has been given a release from a burden, will owe no one for it.
God forgives freely, and so must we. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Col. 3:13). One way to bring to mind our constant need to conform this part of our lives to God’s will is to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”- Q.1 “As we forgive our debtors”, what meaning is conveyed with this phrase?
Q.2 In our Lords Prayer that the Pastor has each Sunday, we use the word “sin”, in lieu of the word “debt” is there a difference?
Q.3 Forgiving one who owes us something tangible, (such as money), may be easier than forgiving someone who has wronged us, ( sinned against us), How do you feel about that?
Q.4 Judgment will not be passed against us for our sins, they are forgiven. How is this done? Please explain this to me where I might get a better understanding of it?
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'
In our 5th petition, Satan is called the accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10) because he likes to make us feel as if God has not forgiven us. But guilt is an objective reality, and if we have turned to Jesus, we have been cleansed — objectively, truly, and in reality. If you think the Lord holds your past against you, pray for deliverance from the evil one and know that you are forgiven. Even though the Lord does not allure us with sin, the Bible is clear He allows His people to go through times of testing. For example, Jesus Himself was tested in the wilderness by Satan. (Matt. 4:1–11).
When we ask God to lead us not into temptation, we are imploring Him to guide us away from any temptation so enticing that we cannot resist it, (An offer that we cannot refuse). And yet every step we take is one where temptation lurks. There is no moment of our life that is not a moment of temptation, and at that same time how we respond is a response to God. The Lord’s prayer does not teach us to pray against that kind of sovereign guidance. What it teaches us to pray is that the temptation does not take us in. Don’t allow me to be lead into any temptation that is beyond my capacity to resist. Deliver me from this evil that is set before me.
Q.1 Temptation is an urge to do or say or have something. What else do we know about it?
Q.2 Why would God have allowed Jesus to be tempted?
Q.3 God does not make temptation for us, but it is here for us, so what do we do about it?
Q.4 List some of the temptations that the world has for us, even from birth?
Q.5 How are we to resist the evil that is associated with temptation?
Q.6 What was God’s immediate response to Jesus’ having been tempted?
Pg.4
The "For thine is the Kingdom, Power and Glory forever " is technically termed a doxology. In the Bible, we find the practice of concluding prayers with a short, hymn-like verse which exalts the glory of God. An example similar to the doxology in question is found in David's prayer located in 1 Chronicles 29:11 of the Old Testament. The Jews frequently used these doxologies to conclude prayers at the time of Our Lord.
Q.1 When we refer to God’s Kingdom, can it be described? See Revelation 21:18-23
Q.2 When we refer to God’s Power, can it be described? See Jeremiah 10:12&13
Q.2 When we refer to God’s Glory, can it be described? See Exodus 33:19-23
Meditation
“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”
These uplifting and sublime words bring a sense of poetic closure to the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus gave this prayer as a model for real prayer. It was different from the prayers of the Pharisees and heathen. It is not to be said hypocritically. It is not to be said mechanically. The problem with the hypocrite is selfishness. Even in his prayers he is obsessed with his own self-image and how he looks in the eyes of the beholder. But in this prayer Christians are preoccupied with God; his name and honor, his kingdom, his power and his glory. Our prayers are to be saturated with a sense of his glory. As such it is the exact opposite of the exhibitionism of the hypocrites. They used prayer as a vehicle for their own glory. The error of the heathen is mindless babbling empty, meaningless words. This prayer is God-centered, not self-centered. This prayer is intelligent, in contrast to the mechanical incantations of the heathen. It is intelligent in the sense that it engages the mind to express a thoughtful dependence on God. Therefore when we come to God in prayer we are to be focused on him not those around us. We are not to be engaged in seeking to please or impress others or try to gain their approval. We are not to indulge in mechanical mindless mutterings. The fundamental difference between right and wrong praying rests in the different images of God which underpin them. The tragic mistake of hypocrites and heathen is to be found in their false image of God. God is our Father in heaven. He loves his children with deep and tender affection. He is approachable and available and loves to listen to his children.
Bible Verses Pg.5
Exodus 6: 4 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, I am about to rain bread from heaven for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day’s portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not.
Deuteronomy 8:3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Colossians. 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty
Isaiah 1:17-20 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. 18 "Come now, let us settle the matter," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword." For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
1Ch 29:11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.
Revelation 21:18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.
19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. 22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
Pg.6
Jeremiah 10:12 But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. 13 When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; he makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.
Exodus 33:18 Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory." 19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 20 But," he said, "you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live." 21 Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. 22 When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen."
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with those of our group
( speak the names of those needing prayer)_who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them.. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
OLD TESTAMENT NAMES FOR GOD
ELOHIM......Genesis 1:1, Psalm 19:1meaning "God", a reference to God's power and might.
ADONAI......Malachi 1:6meaning "Lord", a reference to the Lordship of God.
JEHOVAH--YAHWEH.....Genesis 2:4a reference to God's divine salvation.
JEHOVAH-MACCADDESHEM.......Exodus 31:13meaning "The Lord thy sanctifier"
JEHOVAH-ROHI......Psalm 23:1meaning "The Lord my shepherd"
JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH.......Ezekiel 48:35meaning "The Lord who is present"
JEHOVAH-RAPHA.........Exodus 15:26meaning "The Lord our healer"
JEHOVAH-TSIDKENU......Jeremiah 23:6meaning "The Lord our righteousness"
JEHOVAH-JIREH.........Genesis 22:13-14meaning "The Lord will provide"
JEHOVAH-NISSI.........Exodus 17:15meaning "The Lord our banner"
JEHOVAH-SHALOM........Judges 6:24meaning "The Lord is peace"
JEHOVAH-SABBAOTH......Isaiah 6:1-3meaning "The Lord of Hosts"
JEHOVAH-GMOLAH........Jeremiah 51:6meaning "The God of Recompense"
EL-ELYON..............Genesis 14:17-20,Isaiah 14:13-14meaning "The most high God
EL-ROI................Genesis 16:13meaning "The strong one who sees"
EL-SHADDAI............Genesis 17:1,Psalm 91:1meaning "The God of the mountains or God Almighty"
EL-OLAM...............Isaiah 40:28-31meaning "The everlasting God"
YAH........................................Isaiah 12:2(kjv),Psalm 68:4(nkjv)
EL, ELOAH: God "mighty, strong, prominent" (Genesis 7:1; Isaiah 9:6) – etymologically, El appears to mean “power,” as in “I have the power to harm you” (Genesis 31:29). El is associated with other qualities, such as integrity (Numbers 23:19), jealousy (Deuteronomy 5:9), and compassion (Nehemiah 9:31), but the root idea of might remains.
ELOHIM: God “Creator, Mighty and Strong” (Genesis 17:7; Jeremiah 31:33) – the plural form of Eloah, which accommodates the doctrine of the Trinity. From the Bible’s first sentence, the superlative nature of God’s power is evident as God (Elohim) speaks the world into existence (Genesis 1:1).
EL SHADDAI: “God Almighty,” “The Mighty One of Jacob” (Genesis 49:24; Psalm 132:2,5) – speaks to God’s ultimate power over all.
ADONAI: “Lord” (Genesis 15:2; Judges 6:15) – used in place of YHWH, which was thought by the Jews to be too sacred to be uttered by sinful men. In the Old Testament, YHWH is more often used in God’s dealings with His people, while Adonai is used more when He deals with the Gentiles.
YHWH / YAHWEH / JEHOVAH: “LORD” (Deuteronomy 6:4; Daniel 9:14) – strictly speaking, the only proper name for God. Translated in English Bibles “LORD” (all capitals) to distinguish it from Adonai, “Lord.” The revelation of the name is first given to Moses “I Am who I Am” (Exodus 3:14). This name specifies an immediacy, a presence. Yahweh is present, accessible, near to those who call on Him for deliverance (Psalm 107:13), forgiveness (Psalm 25:11) and guidance (Psalm 31:3).
YAHWEH-JIREH: "The Lord Will Provide" (Genesis 22:14) – the name memorialized by Abraham when God provided the ram to be sacrificed in place of Isaac.
YAHWEH-RAPHA: "The Lord Who Heals" (Exodus 15:26) – “I am Jehovah who heals you” both in body and soul. In body, by preserving from and curing diseases, and in soul, by pardoning iniquities.
YAHWEH-NISSI: "The Lord Our Banner" (Exodus 17:15), where banner is understood to be a rallying place. This name commemorates the desert victory over the Amalekites in Exodus 17.
YAHWEH-M'KADDESH: "The Lord Who Sanctifies, Makes Holy" (Leviticus 20:8; Ezekiel 37:28) – God makes it clear that He alone, not the law, can cleanse His people and make them holy.
YAHWEH-SHALOM: "The Lord Our Peace" (Judges 6:24) – the name given by Gideon to the altar he built after the Angel of the Lord assured him he would not die as he thought he would after seeing Him.
YAHWEH-ELOHIM: "LORD God" (Genesis 2:4; Psalm 59:5) – a combination of God’s unique name YHWH and the generic “Lord,” signifying that He is the Lord of Lords.
YAHWEH-TSIDKENU: "The Lord Our Righteousness” (Jeremiah 33:16) – As with YHWH-M’Kaddesh, it is God alone who provides righteousness to man, ultimately in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for us “that we might become the Righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
YAHWEH-ROHI: "The Lord Our Shepherd" (Psalm 23:1) – After David pondered his relationship as a shepherd to his sheep, he realized that was exactly the relationship God had with him, and so he declares, “Yahweh-Rohi is my Shepherd. I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
YAHWEH-SHAMMAH: "The Lord Is There” (Ezekiel 48:35) – the name ascribed to Jerusalem and the Temple there, indicating that the once-departed glory of the Lord (Ezekiel 8—11) had returned (Ezekiel 44:1-4).
YAHWEH-SABAOTH: "The Lord of Hosts" (Isaiah 1:24; Psalm 46:7) – Hosts means “hordes,” both of angels and of men. He is Lord of the host of heaven and of the inhabitants of the earth, of Jews and Gentiles, of rich and poor, master and slave. The name is expressive of the majesty, power, and authority of God and shows that He is able to accomplish what He determines to do.
EL ELYON: “Most High" (Deuteronomy 26:19) – derived from the Hebrew root for “go up” or “ascend,” so the implication is of that which is the very highest. El Elyon denotes exaltation and speaks of absolute right to lordship.
EL ROI: "God of Seeing" (Genesis 16:13) – the name ascribed to God by Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah (Genesis 16:1-14). When Hagar met the Angel of the Lord, she realized she had seen God Himself in a theophany. She also realized that El Roi saw her in her distress and testified that He is a God who lives and sees all.
EL-OLAM: "Everlasting God" (Psalm 90:1-3) – God’s nature is without beginning or end, free from all constraints of time, and He contains within Himself the very cause of time itself. “From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”
EL-GIBHOR: “Mighty God” (Isaiah 9:6) – the name describing the Messiah, Christ Jesus, in this prophetic portion of Isaiah. As a powerful and mighty warrior, the Messiah, the Mighty God, will accomplish the destruction of God’s enemies and rule with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15
Monday, November 3, 2014
Love / Hate so there you have it.
Opening Prayer Pg1
Father God we ask your blessing on this study tonight, that you would open our minds and our hearts to your word. Lead us now and give us understanding as we study the teachings of Jesus, show us where we fail, and be our guide in this study. Impart to us those things you would have us learn from your word tonight. Help us to realize that we too are vessels that you use to further your Kingdom on this earth. We pray that your peace and comfort be with those of us who are sick or disabled and cannot be here tonight. We ask that you share our blessing with them.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
Mat 5:43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Verses 43 and 44 were not the actual writings of the Law of God, but rather were the teachings that the people were hearing concerning love. It is impossible to love the conduct of a person who curses and reviles us, who violates all the laws of God; but, though we may hate his conduct, and suffer keenly when we are affected by it, yet we may still wish well to the person; we may pity his lifestyle, we may speak kindly of him and to him; we may return good for evil; we may aid him in the time of trial; we may seek to do him good here and to promote his eternal welfare hereafter, Rom_12:17-20. This seems to be what is meant by loving our enemies; and this is a special law of Christianity, and the highest possible test of piety, and probably the most difficult of all duties to be performed.
Jesus is here speaking about the common practice of the scribes and Pharisees who hated the Romans
First, He expressly refutes the error of the scribes and Pharisees, who restricted the term "neighbor" to mean friends and acquaintances, and shows that it is not of God to hate others.
Second, He bluntly repudiates their evil teaching that an enemy is to be hated, affirming the very opposite to be the truth, insisting that God commands us to love even those who hate and injure us.
Third, He makes crystal clear what is signified by "love," namely a holy, inward, and spiritual affection, which expresses itself in godly and kindly acts.
Q.1 Jesus was teaching against hatred in this verse, Can we compare the time he lived in and
our present time?
Q.2 How do we act against non-believers, blatant sinners, government leaders, other
religions, and other races in our world today ?
Q.3 Why might it seem that Jesus is preaching directly to us in this verse?
Q.4 What is the ultimate goal regarding our enemies?
Love / Hate Pg.2
45, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
When we practice those virtues that Jesus is teaching, then others may notice our conduct and acts and know that we are followers of the way. The way of love and compassion, just as if we were a child of God. If we love our enemies, we are Christ-like. God sent His Son to die for all mankind, including His enemies. Yet followers of Christ are wholly assured of this one profound truth: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
All on earth have the same opportunity of salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus makes it clear that God “causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” In other words, God reveals His undiscriminating love to everyone. Though this passage refers to physical blessings on earth, not spiritual, those blessings are given without respect to merit. If they were merit-based, no one would receive them. This is God, indiscriminate in His benevolence. His divine love and providence in some ways benefit everyone, even those who rebel against Him or deny His existence.
Jesus taught the true way is narrow and that few find it (Matthew 7:13-14). Most travel the broad, easy way. Just as Jesus foretold, we live in an age when even among those who profess to be Christians, Jesus' teachings are partially practiced or even disobeyed.
The expression "Followers of the Way" was perhaps the first title given to those who followed Jesus after His resurrection (Acts 9:2, 22:4, 24:14). Because Jesus taught that He was "the way, the truth, and the life," and that no one comes to God except through Him (John 14:6), this title aptly captures the exclusive truth claims of Jesus and the totalizing commitment of following Him.
Q.1 What thoughts come to mind as Jesus says that we are to be like children of our Father?
Q.2 What are your feelings about Jesus having to die for your enemies as well as for you?
Q.3 What thoughts do you have about the providence of God?
Q.4 Interpret the second part of that verse. How do we understand this concept today?
Q.5 Can you describe an instance where you feel that unrighteousness has prospered?
Q.6 What were the early believers called prior to the word Christian, and why?
Love / Hate Pg.3
46 if you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
Jesus next points out the absurdity of a command that would urge love for just those who are not enemies: Tax collectors were despised as among the most immoral in Israel at that time, because they were allowed by the Roman government to extort as much money as they could from the people, and usually did. And so, if tax collectors are able to love those who love them, surely we don't need a command that enjoins love for friends. Although, in our present day, we have fallen so far away from knowing what true love is, even our love for friends is greatly flawed. We love, as long as it is not inconvenient; we love, as long as we can still do what we want; we love, as long as we do not have to make any sacrifices. This is not love. We fall far short of loving even as well as "tax collectors" do. A good example of a pure love of your brother is the story of The Good Samaritan. This story exemplifies the meaning of “love your neighbor as yourself” As opposed to the story of The rich man and Lazarus. The practice of selfishness expressed in the uncaring disdain for his fellow man that we probably witness every day in some form or another.
God has done more for us, and therefore justly expects more from us than from others; the glory of God is more concerned in us than in others; but what do we do more than others? While every one will render good for good, we must render good for evil; and this will speak to our higher calling, and is consonant to a higher rule, than most men are driven by. Others salute their brethren, they embrace those of their own party, and way, and opinion; but we must not so confine our respect, but love our enemies, otherwise what reward have we? We cannot expect the reward of Christians, if we rise no higher than the virtue of publicans.”
Q.1 How is it that having a loving heart for my friends is such an easy thing to do?
Q.2 What can you think of that compares with tax collectors in our day and time?
Q.3 What is it about life today that says to us “Not My Problem”?
Q.4 The Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-37. The rich man and Lazarus. Luke 16:19-31
Compare these two parables of Jesus’?
Q.5 Where do we find examples of these two parables in our world today?
Q.6 Why do Christians feel they deserve better from God than non Christians?
Q. 7 Consider the rich mans fate as compared with Lazarus’ fate.
Love / Hate Pg.4
48 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not
even the pagans do that? 49 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
We must be set apart from others in our behavior, otherwise, why take on the name "Christian"? Our love for others( yes even our enemies) should be evident, and exemplary, and our "Unfailing courtesy, kindness, tenderness, and consideration for others, ( yes even our enemies) are some of the greatest ornaments to the character of a child of God. The world can understand these things even if it cannot understand doctrine.
The basic call to a person in this world is to be a reflection of the character of God. That’s what it means to be created in the image of God. As Disciples we are to be examples of His love, and share it with others as we have seen it in Jesus. It is God's perfection to forgive injuries and to entertain strangers, and to do good to the evil and unthankful, and it will be ours to be like him.
This truth that God demands absolute perfection is one of the most important truths in the
Bible. Jesus freely gave up his life for us that he might become our righteousness and that alone makes us wholly righteous and perfect in the sight of God. It is the only way that anybody can meet this absolute standard – the only way that anybody can spend all eternity with him.
What a wonderful difference it makes when you rest all your hopes for acceptance on what Jesus has already done for you! No longer is there the fear of being rejected. No longer is there the question of your having done enough. Instead there is the joy of being wholeheartedly accepted by our Heavenly Father and the confidence of living forever in his presence.
Q.1 Greeting others, an act of courtesy we easily extend to our friends, but not strangers Why are we hesitant at doing this?
Q.2 How do we determine who is our friend? Or our enemy?
Q.3 What are some of the distinct characteristics of friends? Are they obvious?
Q.4 What are some of the distinct characteristics of ememies? Are they obvious?
Q.5 What is meant by keeping your friends close, and your enemies closer?
Q.6 Mat 22:36 "which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"
Mat 22:37 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'
Mat 22:38 This is the first and greatest commandment.
Mat 22:39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'
Meditation Pg.4
`Nobody's perfect'?" Yes, indeed. But just because we, in our sin nature, cannot attain perfection, does not mean that God should compromise His Law and allow imperfection. What kind of law would that be? Could a holy God give commandments such as these: "Try to love your enemies. Try not to steal. Try not to murder. Tell the truth, except when you’re in a really bad fix." No. A holy God, a righteous God commands:"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." This is the standard for the Kingdom of God. This is the Law for the Kingdom of God. And when we enter His Kingdom, we will experience the gloriousness of a Kingdom that operates under this rule of Law. Until then, we are stuck in these fallen bodies, we are stuck with our sin nature, such that, though we may strive for God's perfection, we fail. But thanks be to God, that though we fail, we can still be clothed with righteousness through Christ's sacrifice. We try, we falter, we fail, we even try to hide our sin, but God has found us out. And Jesus has paid the price for our failure, so we can escape judgment because God, in His love for us (His enemies) gave His Son to pay the price for our sin. Praise be to God! Praise Him for His love! Praise Him for His perfect plan!
This truth that God demands absolute perfection now is one of the most important truths you need to know. Nothing less than your eternal destiny depends on it. It's only after you truly grasp how absolute this command is will you want to latch on for dear life to the perfection Jesus freely gives us. It is the only way that anybody can meet this absolute standard – the only way that anybody can spend all eternity with him.
What a wonderful difference it makes when you rest all your hopes for acceptance on what Jesus has already done for you! No longer is there the fear of being rejected. No longer is there the question of your having done enough. Instead there is the joy of being wholeheartedly accepted by Heavenly Father and the confidence of living forever in his presence.
To Him be the glory forever and ever!
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We are so thankful that you Sent Your Son Jesus to be our guide and teacher. We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Be with those of our group__________( speak the names of those needing prayer)___________who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
Father God we ask your blessing on this study tonight, that you would open our minds and our hearts to your word. Lead us now and give us understanding as we study the teachings of Jesus, show us where we fail, and be our guide in this study. Impart to us those things you would have us learn from your word tonight. Help us to realize that we too are vessels that you use to further your Kingdom on this earth. We pray that your peace and comfort be with those of us who are sick or disabled and cannot be here tonight. We ask that you share our blessing with them.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
Mat 5:43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Verses 43 and 44 were not the actual writings of the Law of God, but rather were the teachings that the people were hearing concerning love. It is impossible to love the conduct of a person who curses and reviles us, who violates all the laws of God; but, though we may hate his conduct, and suffer keenly when we are affected by it, yet we may still wish well to the person; we may pity his lifestyle, we may speak kindly of him and to him; we may return good for evil; we may aid him in the time of trial; we may seek to do him good here and to promote his eternal welfare hereafter, Rom_12:17-20. This seems to be what is meant by loving our enemies; and this is a special law of Christianity, and the highest possible test of piety, and probably the most difficult of all duties to be performed.
Jesus is here speaking about the common practice of the scribes and Pharisees who hated the Romans
First, He expressly refutes the error of the scribes and Pharisees, who restricted the term "neighbor" to mean friends and acquaintances, and shows that it is not of God to hate others.
Second, He bluntly repudiates their evil teaching that an enemy is to be hated, affirming the very opposite to be the truth, insisting that God commands us to love even those who hate and injure us.
Third, He makes crystal clear what is signified by "love," namely a holy, inward, and spiritual affection, which expresses itself in godly and kindly acts.
Q.1 Jesus was teaching against hatred in this verse, Can we compare the time he lived in and
our present time?
Q.2 How do we act against non-believers, blatant sinners, government leaders, other
religions, and other races in our world today ?
Q.3 Why might it seem that Jesus is preaching directly to us in this verse?
Q.4 What is the ultimate goal regarding our enemies?
Love / Hate Pg.2
45, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
When we practice those virtues that Jesus is teaching, then others may notice our conduct and acts and know that we are followers of the way. The way of love and compassion, just as if we were a child of God. If we love our enemies, we are Christ-like. God sent His Son to die for all mankind, including His enemies. Yet followers of Christ are wholly assured of this one profound truth: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
All on earth have the same opportunity of salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus makes it clear that God “causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” In other words, God reveals His undiscriminating love to everyone. Though this passage refers to physical blessings on earth, not spiritual, those blessings are given without respect to merit. If they were merit-based, no one would receive them. This is God, indiscriminate in His benevolence. His divine love and providence in some ways benefit everyone, even those who rebel against Him or deny His existence.
Jesus taught the true way is narrow and that few find it (Matthew 7:13-14). Most travel the broad, easy way. Just as Jesus foretold, we live in an age when even among those who profess to be Christians, Jesus' teachings are partially practiced or even disobeyed.
The expression "Followers of the Way" was perhaps the first title given to those who followed Jesus after His resurrection (Acts 9:2, 22:4, 24:14). Because Jesus taught that He was "the way, the truth, and the life," and that no one comes to God except through Him (John 14:6), this title aptly captures the exclusive truth claims of Jesus and the totalizing commitment of following Him.
Q.1 What thoughts come to mind as Jesus says that we are to be like children of our Father?
Q.2 What are your feelings about Jesus having to die for your enemies as well as for you?
Q.3 What thoughts do you have about the providence of God?
Q.4 Interpret the second part of that verse. How do we understand this concept today?
Q.5 Can you describe an instance where you feel that unrighteousness has prospered?
Q.6 What were the early believers called prior to the word Christian, and why?
Love / Hate Pg.3
46 if you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
Jesus next points out the absurdity of a command that would urge love for just those who are not enemies: Tax collectors were despised as among the most immoral in Israel at that time, because they were allowed by the Roman government to extort as much money as they could from the people, and usually did. And so, if tax collectors are able to love those who love them, surely we don't need a command that enjoins love for friends. Although, in our present day, we have fallen so far away from knowing what true love is, even our love for friends is greatly flawed. We love, as long as it is not inconvenient; we love, as long as we can still do what we want; we love, as long as we do not have to make any sacrifices. This is not love. We fall far short of loving even as well as "tax collectors" do. A good example of a pure love of your brother is the story of The Good Samaritan. This story exemplifies the meaning of “love your neighbor as yourself” As opposed to the story of The rich man and Lazarus. The practice of selfishness expressed in the uncaring disdain for his fellow man that we probably witness every day in some form or another.
God has done more for us, and therefore justly expects more from us than from others; the glory of God is more concerned in us than in others; but what do we do more than others? While every one will render good for good, we must render good for evil; and this will speak to our higher calling, and is consonant to a higher rule, than most men are driven by. Others salute their brethren, they embrace those of their own party, and way, and opinion; but we must not so confine our respect, but love our enemies, otherwise what reward have we? We cannot expect the reward of Christians, if we rise no higher than the virtue of publicans.”
Q.1 How is it that having a loving heart for my friends is such an easy thing to do?
Q.2 What can you think of that compares with tax collectors in our day and time?
Q.3 What is it about life today that says to us “Not My Problem”?
Q.4 The Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-37. The rich man and Lazarus. Luke 16:19-31
Compare these two parables of Jesus’?
Q.5 Where do we find examples of these two parables in our world today?
Q.6 Why do Christians feel they deserve better from God than non Christians?
Q. 7 Consider the rich mans fate as compared with Lazarus’ fate.
Love / Hate Pg.4
48 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not
even the pagans do that? 49 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
We must be set apart from others in our behavior, otherwise, why take on the name "Christian"? Our love for others( yes even our enemies) should be evident, and exemplary, and our "Unfailing courtesy, kindness, tenderness, and consideration for others, ( yes even our enemies) are some of the greatest ornaments to the character of a child of God. The world can understand these things even if it cannot understand doctrine.
The basic call to a person in this world is to be a reflection of the character of God. That’s what it means to be created in the image of God. As Disciples we are to be examples of His love, and share it with others as we have seen it in Jesus. It is God's perfection to forgive injuries and to entertain strangers, and to do good to the evil and unthankful, and it will be ours to be like him.
This truth that God demands absolute perfection is one of the most important truths in the
Bible. Jesus freely gave up his life for us that he might become our righteousness and that alone makes us wholly righteous and perfect in the sight of God. It is the only way that anybody can meet this absolute standard – the only way that anybody can spend all eternity with him.
What a wonderful difference it makes when you rest all your hopes for acceptance on what Jesus has already done for you! No longer is there the fear of being rejected. No longer is there the question of your having done enough. Instead there is the joy of being wholeheartedly accepted by our Heavenly Father and the confidence of living forever in his presence.
Q.1 Greeting others, an act of courtesy we easily extend to our friends, but not strangers Why are we hesitant at doing this?
Q.2 How do we determine who is our friend? Or our enemy?
Q.3 What are some of the distinct characteristics of friends? Are they obvious?
Q.4 What are some of the distinct characteristics of ememies? Are they obvious?
Q.5 What is meant by keeping your friends close, and your enemies closer?
Q.6 Mat 22:36 "which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"
Mat 22:37 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'
Mat 22:38 This is the first and greatest commandment.
Mat 22:39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'
Meditation Pg.4
`Nobody's perfect'?" Yes, indeed. But just because we, in our sin nature, cannot attain perfection, does not mean that God should compromise His Law and allow imperfection. What kind of law would that be? Could a holy God give commandments such as these: "Try to love your enemies. Try not to steal. Try not to murder. Tell the truth, except when you’re in a really bad fix." No. A holy God, a righteous God commands:"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." This is the standard for the Kingdom of God. This is the Law for the Kingdom of God. And when we enter His Kingdom, we will experience the gloriousness of a Kingdom that operates under this rule of Law. Until then, we are stuck in these fallen bodies, we are stuck with our sin nature, such that, though we may strive for God's perfection, we fail. But thanks be to God, that though we fail, we can still be clothed with righteousness through Christ's sacrifice. We try, we falter, we fail, we even try to hide our sin, but God has found us out. And Jesus has paid the price for our failure, so we can escape judgment because God, in His love for us (His enemies) gave His Son to pay the price for our sin. Praise be to God! Praise Him for His love! Praise Him for His perfect plan!
This truth that God demands absolute perfection now is one of the most important truths you need to know. Nothing less than your eternal destiny depends on it. It's only after you truly grasp how absolute this command is will you want to latch on for dear life to the perfection Jesus freely gives us. It is the only way that anybody can meet this absolute standard – the only way that anybody can spend all eternity with him.
What a wonderful difference it makes when you rest all your hopes for acceptance on what Jesus has already done for you! No longer is there the fear of being rejected. No longer is there the question of your having done enough. Instead there is the joy of being wholeheartedly accepted by Heavenly Father and the confidence of living forever in his presence.
To Him be the glory forever and ever!
Closing Prayer ………and prayer requests
God our Father, We are so thankful that you Sent Your Son Jesus to be our guide and teacher. We praise you for your Son Jesus who is the redeemer of all who confess, and repent, and take him as their salvation. Be with those of our group__________( speak the names of those needing prayer)___________who need your healing touch and bring strength and comfort to them. Help us in the living out of our days that we might be willing and able disciples learning and doing according to your word. Bring us to the realization of those matters that cause sadness and grief, and make us to be a positive influence for truth and peace in our daily walk with thee. Be with us now as we leave this place, continue in fellowship with us and guide and protect us as we go on our way.
In Jesus Name we pray Amen
Decisions
Decisions:
Mat 5:38 "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.'
Mat 5:39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.
Mat 5:40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.
Mat 5:41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.
Mat 5:42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Q1. Who would you say has lived the example of these actions?
Jesus is the only person who has lived a sinless life, and gave his all (Romans 3:10 and 3:25)
Q2. What was the need that Jesus served, going as far as his life itself?
Jesus life death and resurrection has provided salvation to all who call on him. (John 3:16)
Q3. Where was the force behind the need for Jesus to give his life?
God saw mankind was not capable of righteousness so he offered his son for our salvation. Rom.10:3 & 4
Q4. When is there the need for such an act?
In the life of everyone there is offered a time and place for salvation, God makes it so. John 13:5-10
Q5. Why will there be a need that I might serve if asked?
No one is righteous, and Jesus met the need. You will have the same opportunity. Rom. 10:13-15
Q6. Who has benefited from the Phrase “Give to the one who asks you?
Jesus life is offered so that all may be saved, we benefit when asking Jesus into our life. Matt. 7:7 & 8
Q7. What are the benefits for the one who is asking?
Ask and it will be given, seek and ye shall find. The one who asks, receives salvation. Matt. 7:9-11
Q8. Where are those who would borrow from us?
Jesus came to us all, the lost and downtrodden, unfortunate and the deprived. 1 Tim. 6: 17-19
Q9. When might it be, that someone would want to borrow from us?
There is no inconvenient time. Jesus, on his last day on earth, gave of himself. Luke 23:38-43
Q10. Why would there be a moment when one would turn away?
Jesus could have turned away from his purpose. And we too can do that as well Matt. 25:34-45
Q11. How has Jesus life & teaching been meaningful to you?
Christ was not a religious fanatic. He was the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Nonetheless, the nature of his mission and message was such that it was bound to ignite controversy—and certainly it did. Great truths come to light in these engagements between God’s Son and those who adopted the position of adversaries. Even today, conflict and confusion over the life death and resurrection of Jesus, for our salvation, continues in the many religions throughout the world. But there is still the one single truth that belies all other claims to anyone’s salvation.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Mat 5:38 "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.'
Mat 5:39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.
Mat 5:40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.
Mat 5:41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.
Mat 5:42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Q1. Who would you say has lived the example of these actions?
Jesus is the only person who has lived a sinless life, and gave his all (Romans 3:10 and 3:25)
Q2. What was the need that Jesus served, going as far as his life itself?
Jesus life death and resurrection has provided salvation to all who call on him. (John 3:16)
Q3. Where was the force behind the need for Jesus to give his life?
God saw mankind was not capable of righteousness so he offered his son for our salvation. Rom.10:3 & 4
Q4. When is there the need for such an act?
In the life of everyone there is offered a time and place for salvation, God makes it so. John 13:5-10
Q5. Why will there be a need that I might serve if asked?
No one is righteous, and Jesus met the need. You will have the same opportunity. Rom. 10:13-15
Q6. Who has benefited from the Phrase “Give to the one who asks you?
Jesus life is offered so that all may be saved, we benefit when asking Jesus into our life. Matt. 7:7 & 8
Q7. What are the benefits for the one who is asking?
Ask and it will be given, seek and ye shall find. The one who asks, receives salvation. Matt. 7:9-11
Q8. Where are those who would borrow from us?
Jesus came to us all, the lost and downtrodden, unfortunate and the deprived. 1 Tim. 6: 17-19
Q9. When might it be, that someone would want to borrow from us?
There is no inconvenient time. Jesus, on his last day on earth, gave of himself. Luke 23:38-43
Q10. Why would there be a moment when one would turn away?
Jesus could have turned away from his purpose. And we too can do that as well Matt. 25:34-45
Q11. How has Jesus life & teaching been meaningful to you?
Christ was not a religious fanatic. He was the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Nonetheless, the nature of his mission and message was such that it was bound to ignite controversy—and certainly it did. Great truths come to light in these engagements between God’s Son and those who adopted the position of adversaries. Even today, conflict and confusion over the life death and resurrection of Jesus, for our salvation, continues in the many religions throughout the world. But there is still the one single truth that belies all other claims to anyone’s salvation.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
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