Perhaps the greatest compliment God ever gave Christians is wrapped in the statement "You are the salt/light of the world." An evaluation of Matt. 5:13-16 demands that we fulfill our role to make a difference in this world.
The book of Proverbs is a book of wisdom (see Prov. 1:1-7). Often said to be associated with other "wisdom literature" like the books of Ecclesiastes and Job, it offers us practical and heavenly insight into how life can be lived more in tune with God than the world. In this lesson, we examine the structure (parts) of the book and then focus on the parable of the lazy vineyard owner in Prov. 24:30-36.
Most churches on the Christian spectrum believe in Giving, at least in theory. Where we struggle, however, is in the practice of giving. In this lesson, we answer the question some ask about why we give, but we do so by establishing a fundamental, theological truth that allows us to give the way God wants Christians to give.
There is so much to uncover in the book of Psalms. But at the heart of the Psalms is a God we need to know. This lesson explores the theme of learning about God from Psalms.
It is clear that God deems preaching important. In Rom. 10:14, scripture states that preaching is needed for people to hear and believe the word. In this lesson, we examine the first sermon ever preached in the setting of the new church God would establish on the day of Pentecost after Jesus' death, burial and resurrection. An examination of this sermon in Acts 2 helps us understand "Why We Preach."
In our "Why We? series we are addressing the things we do in the assembly. Not only do we pray in our corporate worship, it's something we do all the time in our Christian walk. In this lesson, we consider the powerful example of Hannah, who would eventually become the mother of Samuel, from 1 Sam. 1-2. Being barren provides the backdrop to some powerful reasons that confirm "Why We Pray."
In our "One Book" series we consider the short book of Esther in this lesson. There is no question God, whose name is not mentioned in this book, is involved in the story as he uses a beautiful Jewish woman in a courageous way. God's in control but Esther still needed to do what was right. Scriptures referenced: Esther 4:1-17 Subscribe in iTunes Subscribe on YouTube
In our "One Book" series Nehemiah tells the story about rebuilding the walls around the city of Jerusalem. In just 52 days this great work is accomplished. But what is significant to consider is how Nehemiah serves as a great example of leadership. In this lesson, which surveys the book named after him, we'll highlight some of those great leadership characteristics. (passages of importance: Neh. 1, 3, 4 and 13).
It's true that many people don't truly understand what the cross means. But is it possible for disciples to not understand the meaning of the cross? The answer is "yes" according to Mark 8:22-38. In this lesson we connect what seems to be two unconnected stories with a lesson Jesus teaches about the true meaning of the cross.
It's not easy to be a Christian in our modern, post-Christian society. Standing with Jesus is out of touch and makes us feel uncomfortable in our world. Yet, in some ways, that's always been true. A story in Acts 4 is the perfect example of this. After Peter and John were told not to preach about Jesus anymore, they assembled with other Christians and prayed a prayer affirming how to face a world that threatens our faith. What they affirmed in Acts 4:24-30 is the heart of the Christian's faith. Today we should affirm the same basic beliefs as we continue to be the church of Jesus in a hostile environment.
