Category: Five

This final phase (sections 53-184) can be seen to have three sub-parts: Apprenticeship beginning in Section 53; Training beginning in Section 70b; and Anointing beginning in Section 143; however the overall theme and principle of Phase five is Missional. The Gospels are replete with stories from these last 15 months in the life of Christ (and into this present moment). It begins with the appointing of the first twelve apostles, includes scores of miracles, the parables of Christ, many teachings to his disciples, his trial, crucifixion, resurrection, later appearances, and the Great Commission. Disciples in this phase have a lifestyle which is renown. The fruit and followers from years of ministry humbles their heart by the knowledge of the grace and Truth of God which saved and transformed their life, and among them some are called to significant roles and international ministry. Simple or immense their ministry aims to honor Christ alone.

Categories
5b

Treatment and Forgiveness of other Sinners

Week 80 | Section 92

In today’s lesson the Gospel writers graciously allow us to hear one voice, that of Matthew.  On the heals of Jesus previous instruction concerning causing others to sin, comes his teaching that hones in our our attitude and behavior as Christians.  It’s likely that Jesus’ lesson is steeped from the cauldron of the disciples’ debate which was still stirring discord over the question, of “who should be the greatest?” or who was to blame for such a foolish squabble.1

Section 92 | Treatment and Forgiveness of a Sinning Brother

Matthew 18:15-35
15 “If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. 16 But if he doesn’t listen, take one or two more with you, that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as a Gentile or a tax collector. 18 Most certainly I tell you, whatever things you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever things you release on earth will have been released in heaven. 19 Again, assuredly I tell you, that if two of you will agree on earth concerning anything that they will ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the middle of them.” 21 Then Peter came and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I don’t tell you until seven times, but, until seventy times seven.2   

23 Therefore the Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king, who wanted to reconcile accounts with his servants. 24 When he had begun to reconcile, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But because he couldn’t pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, with his wife, his children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will repay you all!’ 27 The lord of that servant, being moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. 28 “But that servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him one hundred denarii, and he grabbed him, and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’ 29 “So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will repay you!’ 30 He would not, but went and cast him into prison, until he should pay back that which was due. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were exceedingly sorry, and came and told their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord called him in, and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt, because you begged me. 33 Shouldn’t you also have had mercy on your fellow servant, even as I had mercy on you?’ 34 His lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormentors, until he should pay all that was due to him. 35 So my heavenly Father will also do to you, if you don’t each forgive your brother from your hearts for his misdeeds.”

Small Group Dialog:

  1. How are the two parts of today’s reading connected?
  2. What is the promise that Jesus makes about our agreement in prayer in the context of sin, offense, and reconciliation?
  3. How would you outline the steps of reconciliation?
  4. Reflect together on how the “Prayer of St. Francis” might apply to this passage.
  5. Have a dialog about confrontation, contrition, conformity, and the resulting confidence in the grace of God.

Learning Objectives:

discipline, prayer, forgiveness,

Photo:

 

 

Study Notes:

 

 

Categories
5b

Perils of an Unbelieving Generation

Our Study today comes from Section 87 in the Harmony of the Gospels. We’ve discussed the topic of demons, demoniacs, and deliverance various times before but we’ve never provided you a full listing of the Biblical accounts of Jesus liberating demoniacs. This is the last of ten (10) reported instances1 in which Jesus had delivered people from demons (sometimes just one and other times plural), and finally that this type of ministry would continue in Section 181. Quite simply, this is not a topic that can be dismissed easily from the life of believers today and perhaps the fact that it has been is why the Church is in such sad state today. Jesus uses the fact of such power as an element of his testimony; and his resurrection was once again final evidence of his divine authority over even the strongest demonic force. Therefore, if there is any doubt or confusion in your mind about this topic in the life of Jesus or the life of the believer today, let us once and for all put this to rest.

Scripture:

Section 87 | Healing of Demoniac Boy and Unbelief Rebuked

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 17:14-21

 

 

 

14 When they came to the multitude, a man came to him, kneeling down to him, and saying, 15 “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is epileptic, and suffers grievously; for he often falls into the fire, and often into the water. 16 So I brought him to your disciples, and they could not cure him.”2

 

17 Jesus answered, “Faithless and perverse generation! How long will I be with you? How long will I bear with you? Bring him here to me.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18 Jesus rebuked him, the demon went out of him, and the boy was cured from that hour.

 

 

 

19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately, and said, “Why weren’t we able to cast it out?” 20 He said to them, “Because of your unbelief. For most certainly I tell you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 But this kind doesn’t go out except by prayer and fasting.3[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 9:14-29
14 Coming to the disciples, he saw a great multitude around them, and scribes questioning them. 15 Immediately all the multitude, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, greeted him. 16 He asked the scribes, “What are you asking them?” 17 One of the multitude answered, “Teacher, I brought to you my son, who has a mute spirit; 18 and wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth, and wastes away. I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they weren’t able.”

 

19 He answered him, “Unbelieving generation,4 how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to me.” 20 They brought him to him, and when he saw him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground, wallowing and foaming at the mouth.5 21 He asked his father, “How long has it been since this has come to him?” He said, “From childhood. 22 Often it has cast him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.”6 23 Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out with tears, “I believe. Help my unbelief!”7 25 When Jesus saw that a multitude came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to him, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you,8 come out of him, and never enter him again!” 26 After crying out and convulsing him greatly, it came out of him. The boy became like one dead, so much that most of them said, “He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and raised him up; and he arose. 28 When he had come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we cast it out?”

 

 

29 He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing, except by prayer and fasting.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:37-43a

 

 

 

37 On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great multitude met him. 38 Behold, a man from the crowd called out, saying, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. 39 Behold, a spirit takes him, he suddenly cries out, and it convulses him so that he foams, and it hardly departs from him, bruising him severely. 40 I begged your disciples to cast it out, and they couldn’t.” 41 Jesus answered, “Faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” 42 While he was still coming, the demon threw him down and convulsed him violently.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and gave him back to his father.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

43a They were all astonished at the majesty of God. [/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  • Who are the characters in today’s reading? What preconceived ideas, emotions, and situations might be influencing their actions, conversations, and results?
  • Based on the events of the story and what you already know about Jesus would you consider Jesus to be greater than his disciples? Why?
  • Why is Jesus able to do what his disciples could not?
  • Trust and Faith. Now how do we get such faith?

Learning Objectives:

Photo:

Study Notes:

Categories
5b Five

When Kingdom Comes

Week 75 | Section 84

Our study this week could be considered to be the explanation of the paradox provided in our last study which we closed before the end of the year. Groups may like to combine these two weeks but others will find the subject matter ever-pressing on the minds of young believers and people who have differing eschatological views, disbelief of Pentecost, and bold denial of the very nature and mission of Jesus Christ. These three verses have generated much controversy through the generations but a few truths will remain evident and essential as we conclude our study today.

Scripture:

Section 84 | Coming of the Son of Man and Judgement

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 16:27-28

 

27 For the Son of Man1 will come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will render to everyone according to his deeds.2 28 Most certainly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in no way taste of death, until they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.”3[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 8:38-9:1
38 For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation,4 the Son of Man also will be ashamed of him,5 when he comes in his Father’s glory,6 with the holy angels.” 9:1 He said to them, “Most certainly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in no way taste death until they see God’s Kingdom come with power.”7[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:26-27
26 For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed, when he comes in his glory, and the glory of the Father, and of the holy angels.

27 But I tell you the truth: There are some of those who stand here8 who will in no way taste of death9 until they see10 God’s Kingdom.”11[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. As Jesus closes his discourse with his disciples (see Section 83) he utters yet another prophetic message about His second coming. What did He say He would do? What did he say he would be like? With whom did he say he would be when he returns?
  2. Compare this passage with Romans 2:6, 14:12; 2 Corinthians 5:10, 1 Peter 1:17; Revelation 2:23 and discuss your understanding of Jesus’ second coming.
  3. In the coming reckoning, and in this very moment, are you more inclined to aim to justify yourself and your action or accept the reconciliatory work which Jesus accomplished for you and the world on the cross?
  4. To which spiritual authority do you bow? Are you inclined to take God at his Word or embrace the philosophies of this present age?

Learning Objectives: Divinity of Jesus, Authority of Jesus, enduring love of God for his people, power given us in Christ, end times, security of salvation by the eternal work of Christ.

Photo:

Study Notes:

Categories
5b

Pure Hearted Devotion

Week 74 | Section 82

Our study this week packs in the significance of Jesus’ devotion and the same which he beckons from within his true followers.

Scripture:

Section 82 | Peter’s Identification of Jesus as the Christ and First Prophesy of the Church

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 16:13-20
13 Now when Jesus came into the parts of Caesarea Philippi,

he asked his disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” 14 They said, “Some say John the Baptizer, some, Elijah, and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. 19 I will give to you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven; and whatever you release on earth will have been released in heaven.” 20 Then he commanded the disciples that they should tell no one that he was Jesus the Christ. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 8:27-30
27 Jesus went out, with his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi.

On the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” 28 They told him, “John the Baptizer, and others say Elijah, but others: one of the prophets.” 29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

30 He commanded them that they should tell no one about him.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:18-21
18 As he was praying alone, the disciples were with him,

and he asked them, “Who do the multitudes say that I am?” 19 They answered, “ ‘John the Baptizer,’ but others say, ‘Elijah,’ and others, that one of the old prophets has risen again.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21 But he warned them, and commanded them to tell this to no one,[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

abc

Learning Objectives:

abc

Photo:

abc

Study Notes:

 

Categories
5b Five

Who Do You Say That I Am?

Week 73 | Section 82 | Phase 5b
Broadcast 12/4/15

As we listen to people and ourselves, as we examine our own life, our values, choices, speech, and behavior in good times and bad we get a glimpse of how we might honestly answer Jesus’ chief question today, ‘Who do you say that I am?‘

In respect of their relationship and allegiance to Jesus, He challenged his disciples to be clear about their response to this simple question, for it will their shape their worldview, and transform the world for generations to come.

Scripture:
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 16:13-20
13 Now when Jesus came into the parts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man,1 am?” 14 They said, “Some say John the Baptizer, some, Elijah, and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ,2 the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you,3 but my Father who is in heaven. 18 I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. 19 I will give to you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven; and whatever you release on earth will have been released in heaven.” 20 Then he commanded the disciples that they should tell no one that he was Jesus the Christ.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 8:27-30
27 Jesus went out, with his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” 28 They told him, “John the Baptizer, and others say Elijah, but others: one of the prophets.” 29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

30 He commanded them that they should tell no one about him.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 9:18-21
18 As he was praying alone, the disciples were with him, and he asked them, “Who do the multitudes say that I am?” 19 They answered, “ ‘John the Baptizer,’ but others say, ‘Elijah,’ and others, that one of the old prophets has risen again.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

21 But he warned them, and commanded them to tell this to no one.[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

Learning Objectives:

Image:

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Caution: Poisoned Religion

Week 72 | Sections 80, 81a,b
Recorded 11/20/15

Caution: Poisoned Religion

More than two and a half years into his ministry1 and the Pharisees still resist Jesus’ person, claims, and authority. Their behaviors indicate that they are more concerned with maintaining power than proclaiming the truth. Their’s is a hazardous and poisoned religion – man-centered, and destructive to the soul.

Scripture:

Section 80 | Return to Galilee and encounter with the Pharisees and Sadducees

[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 15:39,16:1-4
39 Then2 he sent away the multitudes, got into the boat, and came into the borders of Magdala.3 1 The Pharisees4 and Sadducees5¯6 came, and testing him,7 asked him to show them a sign from heaven .8¯9  2 But he answered them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’ 3 In the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but you can’t discern the signs of the times!10 4 An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and there will be no sign given to it, except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” He left them, and departed. [/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Mark 8:9b-12
9b Then he sent them away. 10 Immediately he entered into the boat with his disciples, and came into the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came out and began to question him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, and testing him.

12 He sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Most certainly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.” [/one_half]

Section 81a | Warning about the error of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians

[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 16:5-12
5 The disciples came to the other side and had forgotten to take bread.11 6 Jesus said to them, “Take heed 12 and  and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 13  7 They reasoned among themselves, saying, “We brought no bread.” 8 Jesus, perceiving it, said, “Why do you reason among yourselves, you of little faith, ‘because you have brought no bread?’ 9 Don’t you yet perceive, neither remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you took up? 10 Nor the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you took up? 11 How is it that you don’t perceive that I didn’t speak to you concerning bread? But beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”

12 Then they understood that he didn’t tell them to beware of the yeast of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Mark 8:13-21
13 He left them, and again entering into the boat, departed to the other side. 14 They forgot to take bread; and they didn’t have more than one loaf in the boat with them. 15 He warned them, saying, “Take heed: beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod.” 16 They reasoned with one another, saying, “It’s because we have no bread.” 17 Jesus, perceiving it, said to them, “Why do you reason that it’s because you have no bread? Don’t you perceive yet, neither understand? Is your heart still hardened? 18 Having eyes, don’t you see? Having ears, don’t you hear? Don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves among the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?” They told him, “Twelve.” 20 “When the seven loaves fed the four thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?” They told him, “Seven.” 21 He asked them, “Don’t you understand yet?”[/one_half]

Section 81b | Healing a blind man at Bethsaida

Mark 8:22-26
22 He came to Bethsaida. They brought a blind man to him, and begged him to touch him. 23 He took hold of the blind man by the hand, and brought him out of the village. When he had spat on his eyes, and laid his hands on him, he asked him if he saw anything. 24 He looked up, and said, “I see men; for I see them like trees walking.” 25 Then again he laid his hands on his eyes. He looked intently, and was restored, and saw everyone clearly. 26 He sent him away to his house, saying, “Don’t enter into the village, nor tell anyone in the village.”

Group Dialog:

  1. As most medicinal products and treatments available have labels warnings and negative side effects, what side effects and warnings are inherent to a) religion and b) being a disciple of Jesus.
  2. In what ways have routines and temporal needs impeded your focus on things eternal, and interrupted a missional life (phase 5)?
  3. How do people today trade the God’s mercy, truth, and grace for man-made traditions and rituals? In what way have you done this?
  4. Are the decisions you make in life for your own benefit or for God’s glory? Are there ‘benefits’ which you would be wiser to forfeit rather than forfeit the well-being of your soul?

Learning Objectives:

Photo: A warning label on an auger. Here are a few more humorous warning labels:

  • A fishing lure: Harmful if swallowed.
  • An electric router: This product not intended for use as a dental drill.
  • Underarm deodorant: Do not spray in eyes

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Come to Jesus

Week 71 | Sections 79a,b

Intro

Scripture:

Section 79a | Healings in Decapolis
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 15:29-31
29 Jesus departed from there, and came near to the sea of Galilee; and he went up into the mountain, and sat there.

30 Great multitudes1 came to him, having with them the lame, blind, mute, maimed, and many others, and they put them down at his feet. He healed them, 31 so that the multitude wondered when they saw the mute speaking, the injured healed, the lame walking, and the blind seeing—and they glorified the God of Israel.

[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Mark 7:31-37
31 Again he departed from the borders of Tyre and Sidon,2 and came to the sea of Galilee, through the middle of the region of Decapolis.

 

 

32 They brought to him one who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech. They begged him to lay his hand on him. 33 He took him aside from the multitude, privately, and put his fingers into his ears,3 and he spat, and touched his tongue. 34 Looking up to heaven, he sighed,4 and said to him, “Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!” 35 Immediately his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was released, and he spoke clearly. 36 He commanded them that they should tell no one, but the more he commanded them, so much the more widely they proclaimed it. 37 They were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He makes even the deaf hear, and the mute speak!”[/one_half]

Section 79b | Feeding of the Four Thousand in Decapolis5 
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 15:32-38
32 Jesus summoned his disciples and said, “I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat. I don’t want to send them away fasting, or they might faint on the way.” 33 The disciples said to him, “Where should we get so many loaves in a deserted place as to satisfy so great a multitude?” 34 Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven, and a few small fish.” 35 He commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground; 36 and he took the seven loaves and the fish. He gave thanks and broke them, and gave to the disciples, and the disciples to the multitudes.

37 They all ate, and were filled. They took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces that were left over. 38 Those who ate were four thousand men, in addition to women and children.

[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Mark 8:1-9a
1 In those days, when there was a very great multitude, and they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to himself, and said to them, 2 “I have compassion on the multitude, because they have stayed with me now three days, and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them away fasting to their home, they will faint on the way, for some of them have come a long way.” 4 His disciples answered him, “From where could one satisfy these people with bread here in a deserted place?” 5 He asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven.” 6 He commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground, and he took the seven loaves. Having given thanks, he broke them, and gave them to his disciples to serve, and they served the multitude. 7 They had a few small fish. Having blessed them, he said to serve these also. 8 They ate, and were filled. They took up seven baskets of broken pieces that were left over. 9a Those who had eaten were about four thousand.[/one_half]

Group Dialog:

  1. What is the reputation, demographics, and ethos of region you live?

Learning Objectives:

Caring enough to bring people to Jesus, spiritual yearning, healing, sharing the Good News,

Photo: abc

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Fallen Crumbs for Syrophoenician Faith

Week 70 | Section 78

Today we read a story of great faith, love, and goodness.

Scripture:
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 15:21-28
21 Jesus went out from there, and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22 Behold, a Canaanite woman1 came out from those borders, and cried, saying, “Have mercy2 on me, Lord, you son of David!3 My daughter is severely possessed by a demon!” 23 But he answered her not a word.4 His disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away; for she cries after us.”5 24 But he answered, “I wasn’t sent to anyone but the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”6 25 But she came and worshiped him, saying, “Lord, help me.” 26 But he answered, “It is not appropriate to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” 27 But she said, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”7 28 Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Be it done to you even as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Mark 7:24-30
24 From there he arose,8 and went away into the borders9 of Tyre10 and Sidon11.  He entered into a house, and didn’t want anyone to know it, but he couldn’t escape notice. 25 For a woman, whose little daughter had an unclean spirit, having heard of him, came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by race.12 She begged him that he would cast the demon out of her daughter.

27 But Jesus said to her, “Let the children13 be filled first, for it is not appropriate to take the children’s bread14 and throw it to the dogs.15” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord. Yet even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”16 29 He said to her, “For this saying, go your way. The demon has gone out of your daughter.”17 30 She went away to her house, and found the child having been laid on the bed, with the demon gone out.18[/one_half]

Group Dialog:

  1. a
  2. b
  3. c

Learning Objectives:

Jesus’ mission, faith, boldness, persistence, deliverance, emotional needs, spiritual needs, demoniac,

Photo:

Study Notes:

 

 

 

 

Categories
Five

Something is Still Awry

Week 69 | Section 77

Something is still awryIt was the custom of the Jewish religious leaders to ceremonially cleanse themselves, and wash away all forms of dust from the Gentiles whom they considered religiously and socially “unclean”. Rather than judging  his disciples and Jesus himself “to the side of merit” they “sought to kill him”.  Jesus was not buffeted and didn’t budge or obscure the heart of the matter.

Many sense that there’s something awry, and unclean in their conscience. Troubled as Lady MacBeth crying, “Out, damn’d spot! out, I say!”. It affects even the best of us, even some believers. Grace must indeed penetrate the soul, and for this reason we are to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.1

Scripture:

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 15:1-3a,7-9,3b-6,10-20
1 Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem,2 saying,

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 “Why do your disciples disobey the tradition of the elders? For they don’t wash their hands when they eat bread.”3 3a He answered them, 7 You hypocrites!4Well did Isaiah5 prophesy of you, saying, 8 ‘These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.6

 

3b And “Why do you also disobey the commandment of God because of your tradition? 4 For God commanded, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 5 But you say, ‘Whoever may tell his father or his mother, “Whatever help you might otherwise have gotten from me is a gift devoted to God,” 6 he shall not honor his father or mother.’ You have made the commandment of God void because of your tradition.7¯8

 

10 He summoned the multitude, and said to them, “Hear, and understand. 11 That which enters into the mouth doesn’t defile the man; but that which proceeds out of the mouth, this defiles the man.”

 

12 Then the disciples came, and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended, when they heard this saying?” 13 But he answered, “Every plant which my heavenly Father didn’t plant will be uprooted. 14 Leave them alone. They are blind guides of the blind. If the blind guide the blind, both will fall into a pit.” 15 Peter answered him, “Explain the parable to us.” 16 So Jesus said, “Do you also still not understand? 17 Don’t you understand that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the belly, and then out of the body? 18 But the things which proceed out of the mouth come out of the heart, and they defile the man.

19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, sexual sins, thefts, false testimony, and blasphemies.9   20 These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands doesn’t defile the man.”10[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 7:1-23
1 Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes gathered together to him, having come from Jerusalem. 2 Now when they saw some of his disciples eating bread with defiled, that is unwashed, hands, they found fault. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews don’t eat unless they wash their hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. 4 They don’t eat when they come from the marketplace unless they bathe themselves, and there are many other things, which they have received to hold to: washing of cups, pitchers, bronze vessels, and couches.)11  5 The Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why don’t your disciples walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat their bread with unwashed hands?”12 6 He answered them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7 But they worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’13 8 “For you set aside the commandment of God, and hold tightly to the tradition of men—the washing of pitchers and cups, and you do many other such things.” 9 He said to them, “Full well14  do you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition. 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother;’15 and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, let him be put to death.’16 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is Corban, that is to say, given to God”,’17 12 then you no longer allow him to do anything for his father or his mother, 13 making void the word of God by your tradition, which you have handed down.18 You do many things like this.”19  14 He called all the multitude to himself, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand.20 15 There is nothing from outside of the man, that going into him can defile him; but the things which proceed out of the man are those that defile the man.21 16 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!”

 

 

 

17 When he had entered into a house away from the multitude, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 He said to them, “Are you also without understanding?22  Don’t you perceive that whatever goes into the man from outside can’t defile him, 19 because it doesn’t go into his heart, but into his stomach, then into the latrine, thus purifying all foods?”23 20 He said, “That which proceeds out of the man, that defiles the man. 21 For from within, out of the hearts of men, proceed evil24 thoughts, adulteries,25 sexual sins,26 murders, thefts, 22 covetings, wickedness,27 deceit, lustful desires, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, and foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”28[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]John 7:1
1 After these things, Jesus was walking in Galilee, for he wouldn’t walk in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him.[/one_third]

Group Dialog: 

  1. How do you respond (inwardly and outwardly) to others who judge you , your motives, and actions?
  2. What does the Scripture say about pursuing righteousness, loving God and our responsibility to our brothers, neighbors, and even enemies?
  3. What world views and traditions do you hold on to that are at odds with the Scripture, undermine your relationship with God, or your capacity to be whom God desires you to be?
  4. What is the nature, use, and value of the old and new covenants to you?
  5. It can be tempting for church members to look to canon and law when faced with conflict and injury. What would a kingdom response look like instead?

Learning Objectives:

the nature of sin, godly intentions, grace, obedience, sanctification, do not judge others, legalism, hypocrisy, godly priorities.

Photo: Leaf stains on concrete, photo by Annaliese Troxell
Media: I Desire Jesus, Hillsong Live 2012

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

I Am the Bread of Life

Week 68 | Section 75,76a,b
Broadcast date: 10/18/2015

Intro

Scripture:

Section 75
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 14:34-36
34 When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret.1 35 When the people of that place recognized him,2

 

they sent into all that surrounding region, and brought to him all who were sick; 36 and they begged him that they might just touch the fringe of his garment. As many as touched it were made whole.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Mark 6:53-56
53 When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. 54 When they had come out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, 55 and ran around that whole region, and began to bring those who were sick, on their mats, to where they heard he was. 56 Wherever he entered, into villages, or into cities, or into the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged him that they might just touch the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched him were made well.[/one_half]

Section 76a
John 6:22-59
22 On the next day, the multitude that stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was no other boat there, except the one in which his disciples had embarked, and that Jesus hadn’t entered with his disciples into the boat, but his disciples had gone away alone. 23 However boats from Tiberias came near to the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. 24 When the multitude therefore saw that Jesus wasn’t there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats, and came to Capernaum,3 seeking Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them,“Most certainly I tell you, you seek me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves, and were filled. 27 Don’t work for the food which perishes, but for the food which remains to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For God the Father has sealed him.” 28 They said therefore to him, “What must we do, that we may work the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” 30 They said therefore to him, “What then do you do for a sign, that we may see and believe you? What work do you do? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness. As it is written, ‘He gave them bread out of heaven to eat.’ ” 32 Jesus therefore said to them,“Most certainly, I tell you, it wasn’t Moses who gave you the bread out of heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread out of heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world.” 34 They said therefore to him, “Lord, always give us this bread.” 35 Jesus said to them,“I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will not be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. 36 But I told you that you have seen me, and yet you don’t believe. 37 All those whom the Father gives me will come to me. He who comes to me I will in no way throw out. 38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. 39 This is the will of my Father who sent me, that of all he has given to me I should lose nothing, but should raise him up at the last day. 40 This is the will of the one who sent me, that everyone who sees the Son, and believes in him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” 41 The Jews therefore murmured concerning him, because he said, “I am the bread which came down out of heaven.” 42 They said, “Isn’t this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How then does he say, ‘I have come down out of heaven?’ ” 43 Therefore Jesus answered them, “Don’t murmur among yourselves. 44 No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up in the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who hears from the Father and has learned, comes to me. 46 Not that anyone has seen the Father, except he who is from God. He has seen the Father. 47 Most certainly, I tell you, he who believes in me has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness and they died. 50 This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, that anyone may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread which came down out of heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. Yes, the bread which I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” 52 The Jews therefore contended with one another, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 Jesus therefore said to them, “Most certainly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you don’t have life in yourselves. 54 He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father; so he who feeds on me, he will also live because of me. 58 This is the bread which came down out of heaven—not as our fathers ate the manna, and died. He who eats this bread will live forever.” 59 He said these things in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum.

Section 76b
John 6:60-71
60 Therefore many of his disciples, when they heard this, said, “This is a hard saying! Who can listen to it?” 61 But Jesus knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at this, said to them, “Does this cause you to stumble? 62 Then what if you would see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the spirit who gives life. The flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and are life. 64 But there are some of you who don’t believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who didn’t believe, and who it was who would betray him. 65 He said, “For this cause I have said to you that no one can come to me, unless it is given to him by my Father.” 66 At this, many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Jesus said therefore to the twelve,“You don’t also want to go away, do you?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and know that you are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 70 Jesus answered them,“Didn’t I choose you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?” 71 Now he spoke of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, for it was he who would betray him, being one of the twelve.

Group Dialog:

  1. a
  2. b
  3. c

Learning Objectives:

abc

Photo:

Study Notes: