Super Bowl Sunday
Who will be glorified today after the scoreboard lights out?
Archive for January, 2009
What Hope Do You Have?
February 1, 2009 Super Bowl Sunday
What Hope Do You Have?
Session Goal: To help us choose which basis of Christian hope we find most comforting in the face of death.
Introduction
In what positive and negative ways might the death of a loved one affect the survivors?
Why do we hold funeral or memorial services?
Today’s lesson emphasizes hope in the face of death. We cannot avoid death, but only Christians have genuine hope through Jesus.
What is hope? __________________________________________________________________________
What is Christian hope? _________________________________________________________________
What makes the difference? _______________________________________________________________
I. Our Hope as Christians: (1 Thess. 4:13)
What certainties are there in life? How can we be sure these in fact are certain?
Consider Paul’s comments about the hope of Christians.
Why did Paul use the term “asleep” as a metaphor for death?
How did Paul express encouragement concerning grief, pointing to the difference between unsaved people who grieve and Christians who grieve?
Why is a Christian’s grief different from that of a non-Christian? How can we help Christians face grief?
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II. Our Hope: Christ’s Resurrection and Return (1 Thess. 4:14)
Why don’t people believe that God really brought Jesus back to life? Why are people skeptical today about whether Jesus will return?
Compare and contrast Paul’s comments in verse 14 with those in 1 Corinthians 15:17-19.
If we believe Jesus actually rose from the dead and will return as promised, then we can be 100 percent sure that all who have placed their faith in Him will be resurrected too.
What is the relationship between the resurrection and second coming of Jesus? Why do you think many people are confused about Jesus’ return?___________________________________________________________
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III. Our Hope: Christians’ Resurrection and Reunion: (1 Thess. 4:15-17)
What positive feeling do you have about gathering with kinfolks during a family reunion or with friends at a class reunion? Why?
What two certainties are found here? Resurrection and the reunion of believers in Christ.
In Paul’s comments in these verses he offers five wonderful disclosures about Christ’s return.
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Parousia (Rapture), or “Caught Up”: ___________________________________________
Another approach to the rapture. 16 The Master himself will give the command. Archangel thunder! God’s trumpet blast! He’ll come down from heaven and the dead in Christ will rise— they’ll go first. 17 Then the rest of us who are still alive at the time will be caught up with them into the clouds to meet the Master. Oh, we’ll be walking on air! And then there will be one huge family reunion with the Master. 18 So reassure one another with these words. 1 Thess 4:16-18 (MSG) Cross Ref. Matt. 13 & 25 Parables. Who goes and who stays?
Would you like for Christ to return in your lifetime? Why?
Compare and contrast a family reunion with the second coming?
IV. Our Hope: Comfort (1 Thess. 4:18)
Consider the fact I have a large collection of tools that are pretty cool, but if I never use any of them for their intended purpose what good are they? If I leave these tools in their toolbox, they do me no good.
Why does Paul use the emphasis of the word “therefore?” Have the previous verses been leading up to this statement of encouragement for all believers? Note that “encourage” can also be translated “comfort.”
Just as I spoke about the tools earlier; if I leave the tools in a box they are useless, so are these truths unless we comfort and encourage one another with them. Even when believers face death or that of Christian friends and loved ones, they have reason to be comforted.
Why is seeking to encourage or comfort others important? What has someone said that was especially comforting to you? Have there been times when you needed reassurance and encouragement to be comforted?
Conclusion: The basis of Christian hope lies in these truths from today’s lesson:
1. As Christians, we have a hope that is certain and that unbelievers do not have.
2. Our hope as Christians is certain because it is based on Christ’s resurrection and on His return.
3. Our hope as Christians is certain because it is based on the certainty of our own resurrection and of our reunion with other believers.
4. We can find comfort in the face of death because our hope as Christians is secure.
Decide which of these points provides the most comfort to you in the face of death. Why did you choose it?
Close with prayer.
January 25, 2009: What Is Your Goal in Life?
Lession Goal: To help us affirm the extent of our behavior is shaped by Christ’s commands
· Poster: Unit 2 Outline
· Handout: Walking the Walk
Introduction
Why do children delight in visiting Santa before Christmas?
Why do even children focus on things for themselves?
Why does this self-centered attitude permeate society today as we realize daily how many people focus on themselves and their own priorities?
Examine and Apply God’s Word
Poster: Unit 2 Outline – This lesson begins a new unit
I. Principle to Follow: (1 Thess. 4:1-2)
What is the meaning of “walk” (v. 1)?
Handout: Walking the Walk (complete the questionnaire)
Once complete determine silently the difference in your first and second ratings; then, reflect on what Jesus might say about how much or how little your life pleases God.
Note that Paul’s “commands” came either directly or indirectly from Jesus (v. 2), and these commands provide us today with the principle of pleasing God with all our behavior.
Discussion: Do Christians have the right to live as we want, since we cannot lose our salvation? Why?
II. Purity to Practice: (1 Thess. 4:3-8)
What is meant by “sanctification” from verse 3? ______________________________________________
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What are the possible meanings of “vessel” (v. 4)? _____________________________________________
· emphasis in the use of “lustful desires” (v. 5),
· the consequences of violating standards of sexual purity expressed (v. 6),
· and the nature of God and His presence in our lives (v. 8).
Truth: Whatever God calls us to do and be; He also empowers us to accomplish the challenge. No matter what inner urges we feel or what pressures we face from peers, we can resist temptation to sin because the Holy Spirit is stronger than any force tempting us.
Discussion: Why did Paul emphasize sexual purity? Consider the historical context.
Today, how can a Christian maintain sexual purity in a society that ignores biblical standards?
III. Love to Exhibit: (1 Thess. 4:9-10a)
Compare “brotherly love”(phileo) and “love for one another?” (agape) Identify ways we can exhibit Christian love to other believers. _____________________________________________________________________
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Discussion: If love is to be Christian trait, why does tension among church members reflect the absence of brotherly love? ___________________________________________________________________________
How should we to respond towards someone who refuses to love another member of our church? __________
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IV. Lifestyle to Have: (1 Thess. 4:10b-12)
What happens when we neglect important Christian attitudes and behaviors?
Paul addressed several topics in 1 Thessalonians 4:10b-12. Attention must be given to each for a church to remain healthy. These traits also apply to us individually as well.
- Seek to lead a quiet life: _____________________________________________________________
- Mind your own business: ____________________________________________________________
- Work with your own hands: __________________________________________________________
- Walk properly in the presence of outsiders: ______________________________________________
- Do not be dependent on anyone: _______________________________________________________
How can these problems exist in a church? In what ways should we address each of these problems?
What positive comments might we hear about our church?
1. How do people in our church describe our church?
2. How might people outside our church describe us?
Truth: How we act toward one another influences opinions of people outside the church.
Discussion: In summary, what is a Christian lifestyle?____________________________________________
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How important are honesty, having a good reputation, and being productive members of society in a Christian lifestyle? ________________________________________________________________________________
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Conclusion: Look once again on the “Walking the Walk” handout, identify the one item on the second rating that they think is the least pleasing to God. Write on the lines at the bottom of the page what steps you could take to improve in this area.
When Others Cared for You
January 18, 2009
When Others Cared for You (1 Thessalonians 2:17–3:13)
LESSON PASSAGE OUTLINE
1. Personal Words (1 Thess. 2:17-20)
2. Encouraging People (1 Thess. 3:1-5)
3. Affirming Words (1 Thess. 3:6-10)
4. Loving Prayers (1 Thess. 3:11-13)
BIBLICAL TRUTH: Believers encourage other Christians by demonstrating concern for them.
LIFE IMPACT: To help adults demonstrate concern for other Christians
Introduction
Ask: How do you feel when someone interrupts your plans for a peaceful day or evening at home?
Susan and Ron had really enjoyed Christmas. It was a blast having the kids and grandkids in. Now that family had gone, Susan and Ron had the house to themselves again.
They kept up with a bowl game on TV while they took down the tree and other holiday decorations. They were longing for a quiet New Year’s Day for just the two of them: sleeping in, watching parades, and pigging out on more bowl games.
Then Susan’s cell phone rang. It was her friend Gloria from church. “I just feel so awful,” Gloria blurted. “My two teenagers still aren’t speaking to one another. My husband just stormed out after cussing out the neighbor whose car knocked down our mailbox. He’ll come back drunk late tonight. I thought Christmas would help, but it didn’t. Life seems to be crashing in on me. I feel so isolated and alone. Would you and Ron mind if I came over on New Year’s Day for a while?”
What should Susan do? Why?
Lesson Related Question: How do you think Paul felt when he realized he could not stay and complete his plans in Thessalonica?
Examine and Apply God’s Word
1. Personal Words (1 Thess. 2:17-20)
Where was Paul writing his letter? Why was he there and where had he traveled to get there? (Look at Map)
How might someone feel if they were suddenly forced to flee his or her homeland?.
Read 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20. Why did Paul use the phrase “forced to leave”? In the Greek, forced to leave is literally “orphaned.” Anyone who has ever endured unwanted separation from a loved one also understands what Paul meant by in person, not in heart.
Re: Acts 17:5-10. Paul clearly was in distress when he left Thessalonica. His departure had been as heartrending as when parents and little children are torn apart.
Can you relate to a similar feeling as Paul expressed in your past?
Refer to verses 19-20. Which of the words - hope, joy, crown, or glory- would be most encouraging to you if someone used it about you? Why? How have you used these terms to encourage anyone?
Who has been an encourager in your Christian life? Whom can you encourage?
2. Encouraging People (1 Thess. 3:1-5)
Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5. What were Paul’s motives for encouraging the Thessalonians?
Have you ever faced a situation in which you needed face-to-face spiritual encouragement? Did someone provide it for you?
How would you compare taking part in a Sunday School each week to what Paul was trying to provide the Thessalonian Christians? Why?
3. Affirming Words (1 Thess. 3:6-10)
Read 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10. What do these verses say about how the Thessalonians encouraged Paul?
The phrase, if you stand firm, means Paul expected these readers would persevere. They were to “keep on keeping on” in their lives in the Lord, as believers. Paul often used the verb translated stand firm to call Christians to persevere as one way of showing the reality of their faith (1 Cor. 16:13; Gal. 5:1; Phil. 4:1; 2 Thess. 2:15).
What signs might you look for that would indicate a believer is standing firm in the Lord? What are signs a believer is not standing firm?
Why do you think Paul didn’t ignore the danger of returning to Thessalonica and go himself?
4. Loving Prayers (1 Thess. 3:11-13)
Do you recall a time when people prayed for you? How did you feel?
Read 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13. Were Paul’s prayers answered? Read Acts 20:1-3.
How does prayer connect us with other Christians? How do our prayer lives reflect our true level of spiritual growth?
When Others Helped You How Did You Respond?
Lesson 2: When Others Helped You (1 Thess. 2:1-16)
Truth: Believers can teach others the truths of the gospel.
Can you recall who your favorite teacher in school was? What made that person stand out?
Group Time: How would you define teaching? What would be key characteristics of a good teacher? What keeps you from teaching God’s Word to His followers?
1. Teach Boldly (1 Thess. 2:1-4)
Truth: If God wants us to do something, He will give us the strength and courage to do it despite any obstacles that may come our way. However, people also get into ministry for a variety of reasons, not all of them pure and good. When you get involved in ministry, do so out of love for Christ and others.
What parallels do you think Paul would draw between the Thessalonian church and ours?
2. Teach Out of Love (1 Thess. 2:5-8)
Truth: When we love others, we will approach them gently and we will not exploit them. Such behavior opens the door to teaching them the truths of the gospel. It is love in action!
Why did Paul not want to be a burden to those he was trying to reach? Does that relate today?
How can we be sure to demonstrate the same attitudes towards as we reach out for God?
3. Live What You Teach (1 Thess. 2:9-12)
Truth: We are better able to teach truths of the gospel when we model them in our lives. The best sermon message is the one lived out before others!
Why did you think Paul had great influence on those around him? How good would your influence be around others on God’s behalf?
Which image of Paul’s concern is most meaningful to you: A nursing mother or a caring father?
4. Teach for Results (1 Thess. 2:13-16)
Truth: Persecution is discouraging; especially when it comes from people we are closest. When you make a stand for Christ, you may face opposition, disapproval, and ridicule from your closest friends and family members.
What’s the difference between teaching people and teaching material? Key v.13: Why do you think the source of the gospel message calls for Christians to teach for results?
In God’s plan, is it a bad thing to try and imitate another church or Christian?
What implications can you draw from these final verses about finding people who are open to the gospel? _______________________________________________________________________
GATORS #1… 24-14 vs. OU
If you want a Christian witness of what it means to be a Christian Student-Athlete… try Tim Tebow! Awesome. You can be popular, powerful and provide a public witness.
The Christian Church should be a source of encouragement
January 4, 2009
Good Words for Growing Christians
1, 2 Thessalonians
Unit 1: Remember Where You Were (1 Thess. 1:1-3:13)
- Jan 4 When You Started Out (1 Thess. 1:1-10)
- Jan 11 When Others Helped You (1 Thess. 2:1-16)
- Jan 18 When Others Cared for You (1 Thess. 2:17-3:13)
Unit 2: Consider Where You are Going (1 Thess. 4:1-5:28)
- Jan 25 What is Your Goal in Life? (1 Thess. 4:1-12)
- Feb 1 What Hope Do You Have? (1 Thess. 4:13-18)
- Feb 8 Are You Ready? (1 Thess. 5:1-11)
- Feb 15 Do You Get Along with Others? (1 Thess. 5:12-28)
Unit 3: Be Aware God Is In Charge (2 Thess. 1:1-3:18)
- Feb 22 You Can Feel Safe (2 Thess. 1:1-12)
- Mar 1 You Can Stay Calm (2 Thess. 2:1-17)
- Mar 8 You Can Keep at It (2 Thess. 3:1-18)
We will skip the two lessons in the book related Christmas and Sanctity of Human Life.
Introduction
What was special about the church in Thessalonica (modern Salonica)?
What do we know about how God directed Paul, Silas & Timothy to church plant here? How did they get there and when? (Review Acts 15 – 18)
Who were the early church converts?
What is the uniqueness of these two letters to the church we are going to study?
What was Paul’s purpose in writing to the church in Thessalonica?
Unit 1 Overview: Remember Where You Were (1 Thess. 1:1-3:13)
What do you consider are the key events in your life as a Christian?
How open are about your personal testimony about becoming a Christian and your life as a Christian since?
Three lessons in this unit: (1) Remembering When You Started Out?
(2) Remembering When Others Helped You?
(3) Remembering When Others Cared for You?
It is easy to thank God for what He has done for us on our Christian journey, but what about thanking those who were there as your mentor, your encourager, your friend or merely someone you looked up to as tried to imitate?
Write down as a reminder the names of those who overdue your personal thanks?
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Lesson 1: When You Started Out (1 Thess. 1:1-10)
- Recognizing God’s Work (1 Thess. 1:1-4)
- Responding to the Spirit (1 Thess. 1: 5-6)
- Influencing Others (1 Thess. 1:7-10)
Truth: When people first hear the gospel, they often respond positively, becoming Christians and making changes in their behavior to live for God.
How do you feel about what God has done in your life? Can you recognize God’s work in your life?
1. Recognizing God’s Work: (1 Thess. 1:1-4)
· Church?
· Being Encouraged by Others & Encouraging Others? Through 3 active traits:
- work of faith
- labor of love
- endurance (patience) of hope
· “Our Lord Jesus Christ” – Master, Mentor & Model
· Influence and importance of God’s Election (or, Chosenness)
How do these verses indicate we can demonstrate authentic Christianity? How can we acknowledge God’s work in our lives?
2. Responding to the Spirit: (1 Thess. 1:5-6)
· The Gospel? God’s Purpose, Promise & Power inspires our Passion!
· Our Inspiration: The Holy Spirit
· Our Aspiration: Be like Lord Jesus
How do we know when the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives? How does the Spirit remind us that God wants to work in our lives?
3. Influencing Others: (1 Thess. 1:7-10)
Do actions speak louder than words? If so, are you openly expressing joy and gratitude for the Spirit’s work in your life? Are you an example and influence for others?
· Worship regularly in fellowship of believers
· Reading God’s Word and Thanking Him Daily
· Seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit during our prayer time
· Living by God’s Standards even when difficult and inconvenient
Compared to the Thessalonians, think about the influence of our church and the membership over the past year?
(Tough question considering recent events, but look beyond that… remember a lesson in life: it takes a life time to build a reputation of trust but only a fleeting moment to tear it down)
Otherwise, how far is the influence of the church? Ocala, Marion County, North Florida, and beyond…
How will you demonstrate your faith this week in a way that sets a positive example for others? ________________________________________________________________
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Conclusion:
How should we link demonstrations of faith with our verbal witness to the Source of the inspiration of those actions?
Paul’s message to the early church is the same we need to be reminded of: The Christian Circle of Life, as a disciple, seek others to make more disciples who will live the same Circle of Life, which reflects the Commission Jesus gave to the Church:
Know Him
Grow for Him
Go for Him
Show Him
Our Christian witness should include a testimony that plainly explains what being a Christian is all about:
1. The Nature of Conversion
2. The Nature of Christian Life
3. The Goal of Christian Life
4. The Basis of the Gospel
5. God’s judgment on sinful humanity