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
Five

Walking on Water

Week 67 | Sections 73, 74

Intro text

Scripture:

Section 73
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 14:22-23
22 Immediately1 Jesus made the disciples get into the boat, and to go ahead of him to the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23 After he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain by himself to pray.2 When evening had come, he was there alone. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 6:45-46
45 Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat, and to go ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida,3 while he himself sent the multitude away. 46 After he had taken leave of them, he went up the mountain to pray.4[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]John 6:14-15
14 When therefore the people saw the sign which Jesus did, they said, “This is truly the prophet who comes into the world.” 15 Jesus therefore, perceiving that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, withdrew again to the mountain by himself.5[/one_third]

Section 74
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 14:23-33
23 After he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain by himself to pray. When evening had come, he was there alone.

24 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, distressed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 25 In the fourth watch of the night,6 Jesus came to them, walking on the sea.

26 When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It’s a ghost!” and they cried out for fear.7

27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Cheer up! It is I! Don’t be afraid.” 28 Peter answered him and said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the waters.” 29 He said, “Come!” Peter stepped down from the boat, and walked on the waters to come to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind was strong, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” 31 Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand, took hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got up into the boat, the wind ceased.

 

33 Those who were in the boat came and worshiped him, saying, “You are truly the Son of God!”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 6:47-52
47 When evening had come, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and he was alone on the land.

48 Seeing them distressed in rowing, for the wind was contrary to them, about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea, and he would have passed by them, 49 but they, when they saw him walking on the sea, supposed that it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw him, and were troubled. But he immediately spoke with them, and said to them, “Cheer up! It is I! Don’t be afraid.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

51 He got into the boat with them; and the wind ceased, and they were very amazed among themselves, and marveled; 52 for they hadn’t understood about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]John 6:16-21
16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea. 17 They entered into the boat, and were going over the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not come to them. 18 The sea was tossed by a great wind blowing. 19 When therefore they had rowed about twenty-five or thirty stadia,8 they saw Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing near to the boat; and they were afraid.

 

20 But he said to them, “It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 21a They were willing therefore to receive him into the boat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21b Immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. a
  2. b
  3. c

 

Learning Objectives:

Prayer, faith, life-long learning, faith-filled response

Photo:

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Five

The Bread of Life

Week 66 | Sections 72a,b,c

Intro

Scripture:

Section 72a | Return of the Workers
[one_half last=”no”]Mark 6:30
30 The apostles gathered themselves together to Jesus, and they told him all things, whatever they had done, and whatever they had taught.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Luke 9:10a
10a The apostles, when they had returned, told him what things they had done. [/one_half]

Section 72b | Withdrawal from Galilee
[one_fourth last=”no”]Matthew 14:13-14

 

 

 

13 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat, to a deserted place apart. When the multitudes heard it, they followed him on foot from the cities. 14 Jesus went out, and he saw a great multitude. He had compassion on them, and healed their sick.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no”]Mark 6:31-34
31 He said to them, “You come apart into a deserted place, and rest awhile.” For there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. 32 They went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves. 33 They saw them going, and many recognized him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to him. 34 Jesus came out, saw a great multitude, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd, and he began to teach them many things. [/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no”]Luke 9:10b-11

 

 

 

10b He took them and withdrew apart to a desert region of a city called Bethsaida.

 

11 But the multitudes, perceiving it, followed him. He welcomed them, spoke to them of God’s Kingdom, and he cured those who needed healing.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”yes”]John 6:1-3

 

 

 

1 After these things, Jesus went away to the other side of the sea of Galilee, which is also called the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A great multitude followed him, because they saw his signs which he did on those who were sick. 3 Jesus went up into the mountain, and he sat there with his disciples.[/one_fourth]

Section 72c | Feeding the Five Thousand

[one_fourth last=”no”]Matthew 14:15-21
15 When evening had come, his disciples came to him, saying, “This place is deserted, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves food.” 16 But Jesus said to them, “They don’t need to go away. You give them something to eat.”

 

 

 

 

 

17 They told him, “We only have here five loaves and two fish.” 18 He said, “Bring them here to me.” 19 He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass; and he took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave to the multitudes. 20 They all ate, and were filled. They took up twelve baskets full of that which remained left over from the broken pieces. 21 Those who ate were about five thousand men, in addition to women and children.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no”]Mark 6:35-44
35 When it was late in the day, his disciples came to him, and said, “This place is deserted, and it is late in the day. 36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages, and buy themselves bread, for they have nothing to eat.” 37 But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” They asked him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread, and give them something to eat?” 38 He said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go see.”

 

 

When they knew, they said, “Five, and two fish.” 39 He commanded them that everyone should sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 They sat down in ranks, by hundreds and by fifties. 41 He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke the loaves, and he gave to his disciples to set before them, and he divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate, and were filled. 43 They took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and also of the fish. 44 Those who ate the loaves were five thousand men. [/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no”]Luke 9:12-17
12 The day began to wear away; and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding villages and farms, and lodge, and get food, for we are here in a deserted place.” 13 But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we should go and buy food for all these people.” 14 For they were about five thousand men. He said to his disciples, “Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 They did so, and made them all sit down. 16 He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to the sky, he blessed them, broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the multitude. 17 They ate and were all filled. They gathered up twelve baskets of broken pieces that were left over.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”yes”]John 6:4-13
4 Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand.

 

5 Jesus therefore lifting up his eyes, and seeing that a great multitude was coming to him, said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, that these may eat?” 6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. 7 Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may receive a little.” 8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, 9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these among so many?” 10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in that place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. 11 Jesus took the loaves; and having given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to those who were sitting down; likewise also of the fish as much as they desired. 12 When they were filled, he said to his disciples, “Gather up the broken pieces which are left over, that nothing be lost.” 13 So they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with broken pieces from the five barley loaves, which were left over by those who had eaten. [/one_fourth]

Group Dialog:

  1. Reporting and Sharing the good news, trouble
  2. What’s it take?
  3. Did it really

 

Categories
Five

Enemy of the Realm

Week 65 | Sections 71a,b

In a parenthetical sort of way our study this week circles back to the life and ministry of John the Baptist. As Herod Antipas considers Jesus’ ministry and word that the movement was growing, yet differently that of the politicians and many religious leaders, he grew concerned of the social and political impact.1

Scripture: 

Section 71a 
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 14:1,2
1 At that time, 2Herod the tetrarch3 heard the report4 concerning Jesus, 2 and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptizer. He is risen from the dead. That is why these powers work in him.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 6:14-16
14 King Herod heard this, for his name had become known, and he said, “John the Baptizer5¯6¯7  and has risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” 15 But others said, “He is Elijah.” Others said, “He is a prophet, or like one of the prophets.” 16 But Herod, when he heard this, said, “This is John, whom I beheaded. He has risen from the dead.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:7-9
7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him; and he was very perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again. 9 Herod said, “John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?” He sought to see him.[/one_third]

Section 71b
[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 14:3-12
3 For Herod had laid hold of John, and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. 4 For John said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 When he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.

 

 

 

6 But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced among them and pleased Herod. 7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatever she should ask.

 

 

8 She, being prompted by her mother, said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptizer.” 9 The king was grieved, but for the sake of his oaths, and of those who sat at the table with him, he commanded it to be given, 10 and he sent and beheaded John in the prison. 11 His head was brought on a platter, and given to the young lady: and she brought it to her mother. 12 His disciples came, and took the body, and buried it; and they went and told Jesus.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Mark 6:17-29
17 For Herod himself had sent out and arrested John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias,8  his brother Philip’s wife, for he had married her. 18 For John said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 Herodias set herself against him, and desired to kill him, but she couldn’t, 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he did many things, and he heard him gladly. 21 Then a convenient day came, that Herod on his birthday made a supper for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of Herodias9  herself came in and danced, she pleased Herod and those sitting with him.10 The king said to the young lady, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 He swore to her, “Whatever you shall ask of me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” 24 She went out, and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” She said, “The head of John the Baptizer.” 25 She came in immediately with haste to the king, and asked, “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptizer on a platter.” 26 The king was exceedingly sorry, but for the sake of his oaths, and of his dinner guests, he didn’t wish to refuse her. 27 Immediately the king sent out a soldier of his guard, and commanded to bring John’s head, and he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the young lady; and the young lady gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard this, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.[/one_half]

Group Dialog:

  1. Have you ever felt powerless to sin, like Herod unable to change your mind or behavior?
  2. In the midst of sin have you felt that deep desire for the freedom as Herod felt when he listened to John’s message?
  3. What relief and good is there for those who repent, or resist evil and sin?
  4. Would you say your life has been controlled more by philosophical convictions, Biblical rule/law, or your spiritual relationship with Jesus?
  5. Read the 1928 collect below and discuss what stands out to you.
  6. What can we learn about integrity and leadership from today’s reading?
  7. How ought we prepare ourselves for malice, misfortune, or persecution?
  8. How are we to prepare for the expected (or unexpected) end of our ministry term?

Learning Objectives: Repentance, Vice, spiritual aspirations, the power of sin and temptation.

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Commissioning of the Twelve

Week 64 | Section 70b, c

Jesus’ compassion for humanity and his vision for the Church culminate in today’s reading involving the commissioning of the twelve Apostles. While Jesus had recognized and appointed His apostles in Section 53 in this section we learn several essential lessons of for people today who would be disciple-making disciples. The progression of their calling and ministry is integrated throughout the Harmony of the Gospels, yet there are eternal principles discovered here that will empower us to fulfill the Great Commission in our own context and calling in ministry.

Scripture:
Section 70b
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 10:1-42
1 He called to himself his twelve disciples,1 and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every sickness. The greek term for (δώδεκα/dōdeka/Strongs G1427) is used 75 times in the new testament.2 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles3 are these. The first, Simon, who is called Peter; Andrew, his brother; James the son of Zebedee; John, his brother; 3 Philip; Bartholomew; Thomas; Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus; Lebbaeus, who was also called Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Canaanite; and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. 5 Jesus sent these twelve out, and commanded them, saying, “Don’t go among the Gentiles, and don’t enter into any city of the Samaritans.4   6 Rather, go to the lost sheep5 of the house of Israel.6  7 As you go, preach, saying, ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!’ 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Freely you received, so freely give.7 9 Don’t take any gold, silver, or brass in your money belts.8 10 Take no bag for your journey, neither two coats, nor shoes, nor staff: for the laborer is worthy of his food.9 11 Into whatever city or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy; and stay there until you go on. 12 As you enter into the household, greet it. 13 If the household is worthy, let your peace come on it, but if it isn’t worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 Whoever doesn’t receive you, nor hear your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet.10 15 Most certainly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah11 in the day of judgment than for that city. 16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep among wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.12  [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 6:7-11
7 He called to himself the twelve, and began to send them out two by two; and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8 He commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, except a staff only: no bread, no wallet, no money in their purse, 9 but to wear sandals, and not put on two tunics. 10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter into a house, stay there until you depart from there.

 

11 Whoever will not receive you nor hear you, as you depart from there, shake off the dust that is under your feet for a testimony against them. Assuredly, I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:1-5
1 He called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them out to preach God’s Kingdom and to heal the sick.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey—no staffs, nor wallet, nor bread, nor money. Don’t have two coats each. 4 Into whatever house you enter, stay there, and depart from there.

 

5 As many as don’t receive you, when you depart from that city, shake off even the dust from your feet for a testimony against them.”[/one_third]

17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to councils, and in their synagogues they will scourge you. 18 Yes, and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations. 19 But when they deliver you up, don’t be anxious how or what you will say, for it will be given you in that hour what you will say. 20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you. 21 “Brother will deliver up brother to death, and the father his child. Children will rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death. 22 You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake, but he who endures to the end will be saved. 23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee into the next, for most certainly I tell you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel, until the Son of Man has come. 24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be like his teacher, and the servant like his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more those of his household! 26 Therefore don’t be afraid of them, for there is nothing covered that will not be revealed; and hidden that will not be known. 27 What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in the ear, proclaim on the housetops. 28 Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. Rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. 29 “Aren’t two sparrows sold for an assarion coin? Not one of them falls on the ground apart from your Father’s will, 30 but the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Therefore don’t be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows. 32 Everyone therefore who confesses me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever denies me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. 34 “Don’t think that I came to send peace on the earth. I didn’t come to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I came to13 set a man at odds against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 A man’s foes will be those of his own household. 37 He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me isn’t worthy of me. 38 He who doesn’t take his cross and follow after me, isn’t worthy of me. 39 He who seeks his life will lose it; and he who loses his life for my sake will find it. 40 He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. 41 He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward. He who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man will receive a righteous man’s reward. 42 Whoever gives one of these little ones just a cup of cold water to drink in the name of a disciple, most certainly I tell you he will in no way lose his reward.”

Section 70c
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 11:1
1 When Jesus had finished directing his twelve disciples, he departed from there to teach and preach in their cities.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 6:12-13

 

12 They went out and preached that people should repent.14  13 They cast out many demons, and anointed many with oil who were sick, and healed them.15[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 9:6

 

6 They departed and went throughout the villages, preaching the Good News and healing everywhere.[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. What did Jesus do, teach and impart to the twelve before he commissioned them?
  2. What authority did He give them before He sent the apostles out?
  3. To what ministry is Jesus calling you? How do you feel about that? What more do you need to do prepare yourself for that ministry?
  4. How do you deal with rejection and opposition in the ministry to which you are called?

Learning Objectives:

abc

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

The Harvest is Plentiful

Heller Estates, Vineyard

Week 63 | Section 70a

Heller Estates, VineyardLegacy planning is a term many are familiar with but there are none that have proven better than Jesus’. The success is in part due to His master plan and God’s very nature which was instilled within humanity. In today’s study we find our selves peering pack onto the eve of a movement that transformed the world forever.  It was late summer, for two-and-a-half years they had followed Jesus, then become his disciples, and in the spring Jesus had selected them to be his Apostles – yet there was more to do together than relish each moment with the Lord.

Scripture:

[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 9:35-38
35 Jesus went1 about all the cities and the villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the Good News of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people.2 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and scattered,3 like sheep without a shepherd.4    37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest indeed is plentiful,5 but the laborers are few.6 38 Pray7 therefore that the Lord of the harvest8 will send out laborers into his harvest.”. 9¯10[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Mark 6:6b
6b He went around the villages teaching.[/one_half]

Group Dialog:

  1. How would you define the needs and sentiments of your neighborhood, community, and the surrounding towns?
  2. How is the Lord’s command at this time in the life of Jesus and the Apostles, differ from his command after his resurrection (Matt 28:19-20) and Paul’s instruction in Eph 4:12-14?
  3. In Ephesians 6:12 Paul writes, “our battle is not against flesh and blood”. What then should we understand about Jesus’ command for prayer and labor?
  4. As a disciple yourself, how are you personally responding to this command of Christ?
  5. How ought the church unite and serve? Under whom are we to unite (who is the leader)? What is the common cause (read: 2Cor 5:11-21)? What purpose does our diversity of ministries and vocations, and strength serve to fulfill this common cause?
  6. How is being part of Jesus’ movement different that becoming a member of a church?

Learning Objectives:

Prayer is essential, we must engage in the ministry of reconciliation, diversity of ministries, vocation, spiritual gifts, strengths, common cause, unity of the Church, work of the Church, evangelism, service,

Photo: Heller Estates winery in Monterey County, CA. 2014 Harvest. Heller Estates is an organic winery high up on the hillside within the Carmel Valley Appellation.

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Believe in Him or Not

The Pinewood Estate at Bok Tower Gardens, FL

Week 62 | Sections 68, 69

The Pinewood Estate at Bok Tower Gardens, FLFrom one house to another and then into his home town, Jesus continues to heal, teach and inspire people with the Gospel. Over and over people’s encounter with Jesus teaches us that faith can: set us free, move mountains, raise the dead, heal the sick, and allow us to more than we can ask or imagine   – but what is to come from a lack of faith?  What is the cost of unbelief?

Scripture:

Section 68 | Matthew 9:27-34
27 As Jesus passed by from there,1 two blind men followed him, calling out and saying, “Have mercy on us, son of David!”2  28 When he had come into the house, the blind men came to him. Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”They told him, “Yes, Lord.”3  29 Then he touched their eyes, saying,“According to your faith be it done to you.” 30 Their eyes were opened.4 Jesus strictly commanded them, saying, “See that no one knows about this.” 31 But they went out and spread abroad his fame in all that land.5  32 As they went out,6 behold, a mute man who was demon possessed was brought to him.7¯8  33 When the demon was cast out, the mute man spoke. The multitudes marveled, saying, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel!”9  34 But the Pharisees said, “By the prince of the demons, he casts out demons.”10

Section 69 
[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 13:54-58
54 Coming into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom, and these mighty works?

 

55 Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother called Mary, and his brothers, James, Joses, Simon, and Judas? 56 Aren’t all of his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all of these things?” 57 They were offended by him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and in his own house.” 58 He didn’t do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Mark 6:1-6a
1 He went out from there. He came into his own country,11 and his disciples followed him. 2 When the Sabbath had come, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many hearing him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things?” and, “What is the wisdom that is given to this man, that such mighty works come about by his hands? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter, the son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judah, and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” They were offended at him.12 4 Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and among his own relatives, and in his own house.”13¯14 5 He could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people, and healed them. 6a He marveled15 because of their unbelief. [/one_half]

Group Dialog:

  1. What is the difference between faith, belief, and understanding?
  2. When considering what God has done in your life, for what are you most thankful, and how have you expressed that in your life and ministry?
  3. For which Christian topics would you say you have faith but not understanding?
  4. Are there experiences, issues or problems that undermine your faith?
  5. Should one’s character or moral failings interrupt our faith in God?
  6. What hope does Mark 9:23-24 offer those who doubt and question Jesus’ identity, teachings, and ability to perform miracles?
  7. In our exhaustion, how do you find energy and joy to continue in ministry to others?
  8. What should our reaction be to the godly-results seen in the ministry of others?
  9. If you are experiencing success in ministry, how do you avoid vanity, pride, self-importance and other sins that detract from God’s work among you?
  10. God does not promise every member of your family will believe because you do. In fact Jesus said that some families will divide over him (Matthew 10:34-39). What are we to do when those we love do not yet believe?

Learning Objectives: faith, doubt, prayer of faith, healing, diligence, investment of time, witness, prayer, prophet, welcome, when to move on

Photo: The Pinewood Estate at Bok Tower Gardens, FL

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Just Believe

Victoria Lilypads at Bok Tower Gardens, FL

Week 61 | Section 67

Victoria Lilypads at Bok Tower Gardens, FLOne of the name’s used to describe God is Jehovah Shammah which when translated is “The God who is there”. In today’s study we see to miraculous events among those who believe – the woman who touched his cloak and those from the house of Jarius. Despair had struck them both but faith in Jesus delivered them in an instant.  Yes, the purposes and power of God reach far beyond what we can grasp or imagine.

Scripture

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 9:18-26

18 While he told these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.”1 19 Jesus got up and followed him, as did his disciples. 20 Behold, a woman2 who had a discharge of blood for twelve years3

came behind him, and touched the fringe of his garment; 21 for she said within herself, “If I just touch his garment, I will be made well.”4

22 But Jesus, turning around and seeing her, said, “Daughter, cheer up! Your faith5  has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour.

23 When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players, and the crowd in noisy disorder, 24 he said to them, “Make room, because the girl isn’t dead, but sleeping.” They were ridiculing him.

25 But when the crowd was put out, he entered in, took her by the hand, and the girl arose.

26 The report of this went out into all that land.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 5:21-43
21 When Jesus had crossed back over in the boat to the other side,6 a great multitude was gathered to him; and he was by the sea. 22 Behold, one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, came; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, 23 and begged him much, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Please come and lay your hands on her, that she may be made healthy, and live.” 24 He went with him, and a great multitude followed him, and they pressed upon him on all sides. 25 A certain woman, who had a discharge of blood for twelve years, 26 and had suffered many things by many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better, but rather grew worse, 27 having heard the things concerning Jesus, came up behind him in the crowd, and touched his clothes. 28 For she said, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be made well.” 29 Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. 30 Immediately Jesus, perceiving in himself that the power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd, and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” 31 His disciples said to him, “You see the multitude pressing against you, and you say, ‘Who touched me?’ ” 32 He looked around to see her who had done this thing. 33 But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done to her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be cured of your disease.”

35 While he was still speaking, people came from the synagogue ruler’s house saying, “Your daughter is dead. Why bother the Teacher any more?” 36 But Jesus, when he heard the message spoken, immediately said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Don’t be afraid, only believe.”7 37 He allowed no one to follow him, except Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 38 He came to the synagogue ruler’s house, and he saw an uproar, weeping, and great wailing. 39 When he had entered in, he said to them,

“Why do you make an uproar and weep? The child is not dead, but is asleep.” 40 They ridiculed him. But he, having put them all out, took the father of the child, her mother, and those who were with him, and went in where the child was lying. 41 Taking the child by the hand, he said to her, “Talitha cumi!” which means, being interpreted, “Girl, I tell you, get up!” 42 Immediately the girl rose up and walked, for she was twelve years old. They were amazed with great amazement. 43 He strictly ordered them that no one should know this, and commanded that something should be given to her to eat.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 8:40-56
40 When Jesus returned, the multitude welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him.8 41 Behold, a man named Jairus came. He was a ruler of the synagogue. He fell down at Jesus’ feet, and begged him to come into his house, 42 for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying.9

But as he went, the multitudes pressed against him.10 43 A woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her living on physicians and could not be healed by any11

44 came behind him, and touched the fringe of his cloak.12 Immediately the flow of her blood stopped.

45 Jesus said, “Who touched me?” When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes press and jostle you, and you say, ‘Who touched me?’” 46 But Jesus said, “Someone did touch me, for I perceived that power has gone out of me.” 47 When the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared to him in the presence of all the people the reason why she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 He said to her, “Daughter, cheer up. Your faith has made you well. Go in peace.” 49 While he still spoke, one from the ruler of the synagogue’s house came, saying to him, “Your daughter is dead. Don’t trouble the Teacher.” 50 But Jesus hearing it, answered him, “Don’t be afraid. Only believe, and she will be healed.” 51 When he came to the house, he didn’t allow anyone to enter in, except Peter, John, James, the father of the child, and her mother. 52 All were weeping and mourning her, but he said, “Don’t weep. She isn’t dead, but sleeping.” 53 They were ridiculing him, knowing that she was dead.

54 But he put them all outside, and taking her by the hand, he called, saying, “Child, arise!” 55 Her spirit returned, and she rose up immediately. He commanded that something be given to her to eat.13

56 Her parents were amazed, but he commanded them to tell no one what had been done.[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. From this passage, what should learn about our response to our emotions and situations of life?
  2. Do you think you are aware of your surroundings, as Jesus was, and the need of those around you?
  3. Are miraculous healing possible today? (The answer is yes.) What then does it take to be healed?
  4. What is it that you desire the Lord to do in your life today (this week, this month, this year)?

Learning Objectives:

Faith in Jesus, humbled, humility, humility of Christ, the compassion of Christ, power of Christ, healing, godly reaction to our own emotions and situations, spiritual attentiveness, God’s desire to heal us, intercessory prayer, prayer,

Photo: Victoria lily pads at Bok Tower Gardens, FL These water lilies are almost unbelievable – 5-9 feet in diameter and strong enough to hold up 150lbs.

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Emancipation and Mercy

Wild boar in Southern California

Week 60 | Section 66

Wild boar in Southern CaliforniaMordechai Anielewicz1 wrote, “The most difficult struggle of all is the one within ourselves.”  Such was the skirmish on the day Jesus emancipated a man from Gerasenes who had been tormented by demons and rejected by his own. He sat alone, rankled and writhing until Jesus came to the rescue. Mercy knows no greater pleasure than to give aid to those without hope.

Scripture
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 8:28-34
28 When he came to the other side,2 into the country of the Gergesenes, two people3 possessed by demons4 met him there, coming out of the tombs, exceedingly fierce, so that nobody could pass that way.

 

 

 

 

29 Behold, they cried out, saying, “What do we have to do with you, Jesus, Son of God?5 Have you come here to torment us before the time?”6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

30 Now there was a herd of many pigs feeding far away from them. 31 The demons begged him, saying, “If you cast us out, permit us to go away into the herd of pigs.” 32 He said to them, “Go!” They came out, and went into the herd of pigs: and behold, the whole herd of pigs rushed down the cliff into the sea, and died in the water.7 33 Those who fed them fled, and went away into the city, and told everything, including what happened to those who were possessed with demons. 34 Behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus.

 

 

When they saw him, they begged that he would depart from their borders.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 5:1-20
1 They came to the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. 2 When he had come out of the boat, immediately a man with an unclean spirit met him out of the tombs. 3 He lived in the tombs. Nobody could bind him any more, not even with chains, 4 because he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been torn apart by him, and the fetters broken in pieces. Nobody had the strength to tame him. 5 Always, night and day, in the tombs and in the mountains, he was crying out, and cutting himself with stones. 6 When he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and bowed down to him, 7 and crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have I to do with you, Jesus, you Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, don’t torment me.” 8 For he said to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” 9 He asked him, “What is your name?” He said to him, “My name is Legion, for we are many.”8 10 He begged him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

11 Now on the mountainside there was a great herd of pigs feeding.9  12 All the demons begged him, saying, “Send us into the pigs, that we may enter into them.” 13 At once Jesus gave them permission. The unclean spirits came out and entered into the pigs. The herd of about two thousand rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and they were drowned in the sea. 14 Those who fed them fled, and told it in the city and in the country. The people came to see what it was that had happened. 15 They came to Jesus, and saw him who had been possessed by demons sitting, clothed, and in his right mind,10 even him who had the legion; and they were afraid. 16 Those who saw it declared to them what happened to him who was possessed by demons, and about the pigs. 17 They began to beg him to depart from their region. 18 As he was entering into the boat, he who had been possessed by demons begged him that he might be with him. 19 He didn’t allow him, but said to him, “Go to your house, to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how he had mercy on you.”11 20 He went his way, and began to proclaim in Decapolis how Jesus had done great things for him, and everyone marveled.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 8:26-39
26 They arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. 27 When Jesus stepped ashore, a certain man out of the city who had demons for a long time met him. He wore no clothes, and didn’t live in a house, but in the tombs.

 

 

 

28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, “What do I have to do with you, Jesus, you Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torment me!” 29 For Jesus was commanding the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For the unclean spirit had often seized the man. He was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters. Breaking the bonds apart, he was driven by the demon into the desert. 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He said, “Legion,” for many demons had entered into him. 31 They begged him that he would not command them to go into the abyss. 32 Now there was there a herd of many pigs feeding on the mountain, and they begged him that he would allow them to enter into those. Then he allowed them. 33 The demons came out of the man, and entered into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake, and were drowned. 34 When those who fed them saw what had happened, they fled and told it in the city and in the country. 35 People went out to see what had happened. They came to Jesus and found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 36 Those who saw it told them how he who had been possessed by demons was healed. 37 All the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked him to depart from them, for they were very much afraid. Then he entered into the boat and returned. 38 But the man from whom the demons had gone out begged him that he might go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return to your house, and declare what great things God has done for you.” He went his way, proclaiming throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. Why is it errant to see God and Satan as polar opposites (yin/yang)?
  2. Talk about what kinds of “footholds” the devil can get in the life of a Christian.
  3. What dangers (what risk) do the “footholds” present to the believer, those whom they love/know? and the purposes of God?
  4. Why is it important for Christians to know about demons, demoniacs, and deliverance?
  5. Discuss the authority of Jesus and eternal plan after reading the study notes in Mt 8:32 (or the content of this pdf).
  6. What is the nature and definition of mercy?
  7. Share stories of how God delivered you (if so), or how the Gospel and Scriptural truths have “set you free”.
  8. Talk about the nature of “mercy”.

Learning Objectives: the authority of Jesus, the reality of demons, demonic possession, judgement of demons, deliverance, end times, Satan, demoniac, mercy.

Photo: Wild Boar in southern California.

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

Jesus Calmed the Sea

Jesus Calmed the Sea

Week 59 | Section 65

Jesus Calmed the SeaAs a long day of teaching and the deliverance of one demoniac drew to a close Jesus decided it was time to cross the Sea of Galilee1. Jesus entered the boat with his disciples, they hoisted the sails for the five mile trip. A flotilla of those who wanted to hear more followed along in other boats and Jesus slept while his trusted disciples navigated the waters.

Scripture
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 8:18, 23-27
18 Now when Jesus saw great multitudes around him, he gave the order to depart to the other side.2 23 When he got into a boat, his disciples followed him. 24 Behold, a violent storm3 came up on the sea, so much that the boat was covered with the waves, but he was asleep.

25 They came to him, and woke him up, saying, “Save us, Lord! We are dying!”

26 He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then he got up, rebuked the wind and the sea, and there was a great calm.

27 The men marveled, saying, “What kind of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”4[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 4:35-41
35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let’s go over to the other side.”5 36 Leaving the multitude, they took him with them, even as he was,6 in the boat. Other small boats were also with him. 37 A big wind storm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so much that the boat was already filled. 38 He himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion, and they woke him up, and told him, “Teacher, don’t you care that we are dying?”7 39 He awoke, and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” The wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 They were greatly afraid, and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”8[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 8:22-25
22 Now on one of those days, he entered into a boat, himself and his disciples,9 and he said to them, “Let’s go over to the other side10 of the lake.” So they launched out. 23 But as they sailed, he fell asleep. A wind storm came down on the lake, and they were taking on dangerous amounts of water.11

24 They came to him, and awoke him, saying, “Master, master, we are dying!” He awoke, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water, and they ceased, and it was calm.

25 He said to them, “Where is your faith?” Being afraid they marveled, saying to one another, “Who is this then, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?”[/one_third]

Group Dialog:

  1. Fear is a normal and acceptable emotion, but what is a faith-filled response to fear?
  2. what situation have you been in which struck fear in you – and what did you think of or do that transformed it into a moment faith.
  3. What is faith?   How has Jesus become the author and perfecter of your faith?
  4. What do you know about the nature of God which has given (could give) you faith to overcome and press on in fearful situations?
  5. What stories of faith have you learned from others in your life which later gave you faith in a moment of concern?
  6. What habits and spiritual disciplines have helped you carry on in faith?

Learning Objectives: the nature of fear, the power of faith, the authority of God, confidence and determination to carry out the mission, lesson in life, godly character

Photo: Waves at sunset, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA overlooking Arrowhead Point, Still Water Cove, and the 8th hole at Pebble Beach, CA.

Study Notes:

Categories
Five

The Kingdom of Heaven (part four)

White House Inn

Week 58 | Sections 64 h,i,j,k

White House Inn, VermontNo doubt you’re presently on some kind of quest – searching or yearning for something. Perhaps its for something material, an adventure, or a better job; or perhaps its for something more significant such as a companion, love, forgiveness – but whatever kind of treasure you’ve been giving it your all, or day and night its been consuming your thoughts. In this age Jesus’ words are as poignant as the shovel with which one man hid in a field. Where is your treasure?

Scripture

Section 64h | Matthew 13:44
44 “Again,1 the Kingdom of Heaven2 is like treasure3 hidden in the field, which a man found,4¯5 and hid. In his joy,6 he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.7

Section 64i | Matthew 13:45-46
45 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a merchant seeking8 fine pearls,9 46 who having found one pearl of great price,10 he went and sold all that he had, and bought it.11

Section 64j | Matthew 13:47-50
47 “Again,12 the Kingdom of Heaven is like a dragnet, that was cast into the sea, and gathered some fish of every kind, 48 which, when it was filled, they drew up on the beach. They sat down, and gathered the good into containers, but the bad they threw away.13 49 So will it be in the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked from among the righteous, 50 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.”

Section 64k | Matthew 13:51-53
51 Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They answered him, “Yes, Lord.”14 52 He said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been made a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a householder, who brings out of his treasure new and old things.”15 53 When Jesus had finished these parables, he departed from there.16

Group Dialog:

  1. Have you ever dreamed of discovering a hidden treasure, time capsule, or an undiscovered artifact of great worth?
  2. What makes His Kingdom so valuable, so priceless?
  3. Can a person experience the full joy of such a treasure without surrendering to the Lordship of Christ? Can they experience part of the joy? If it would be possible, what might be lost in the shuffle between two kingdoms?
  4. After Jesus death the Holy Spirit was sent to infill and guide the disciples. Share some of your recent experiences of being guided by the Holy Spirit and surrender to the Lordship of Christ in your life?

Learning Objectives: surrender all, recognize Christ worth, spiritual aspiration, materialism, treasures, desire of your heart, life purpose, integrity, fulfillment of the Gospel, grace on the cross, victory in the resurrection, Lordship of Christ, working in the kingdom of God.

Photo: At the White House Inn, Vermont for a family wedding Sept-2012.

Study Notes: