MONDAY: Moses’ parents (Hebrews 11:23)
1. Read the story of the birth of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10). Why did Moses’ parents hide him (Exodus 1:22)? For how long did she hide the baby? What problems would she have had in trying to hide a baby for that long of a time?
Who gave him the name Moses? Why was he given that name?
2. Return to Hebrews 11:23. Why did they hide the child? What fears would you have had trying to hide a baby for such a long time?
3. What fears do you face now that you need to overcome by faith? Right them down, share them with someone and begin to face that fear by stepping out on faith.
TUESDAY: Moses’ faith (Hebrews 11:24-26)
1. What privileges would Moses have had by being known as “Pharaoh’s grandson”?
2. Have you ever made the hard choice because it was the right choice? Write down a time.
3. What do we learn about sin from this passage? Why did he regard “disgrace for the sake of Christ greater than “the treasures of Egypt”? How does looking ahead to heaven keep you walking by faith? How does it help you when tempted by the temporary pleasures of sin?
WEDNESDAY: Moses’ faith and the flight (Hebrews 11:27)
1. There are two possibilities when this passage talks about Moses’ leaving Egypt. One is after he killed an Egyptian who was mistreating and Israelite (Exodus 2:11-15) or the other option is when he led the Israelites out of bondage. Exodus 2:14 says Moses was afraid when a Hebrew slave confronted about the killing and that he left after the confrontation. It does not say he feared the Pharaoh. No matter which view you adopt both trips took great faith.
2. According to Hebrews 11:28, why did he persevere? In what ways do you see the invisible God in your life? (List three) How can you see something that is invisible? How does seeing “him who is invisible” help you to persevere in tough times?
THURSDAY: Moses’ faith and the Passover (Hebrews 11:28)
1. Read about the first Passover Exodus 11:1-12:30. Write what you would think it was like celebrating the first Passover? What sounds would you hear? Would you be afraid? What would you tell the children in your household about the blood over the door? What would you tell your firstborn?
2. Why would keeping the Passover and sprinkling the blood take faith? Why would it take faith to do this on an annual basis?
3. In our fellowship today how does partaking of the Lord’s Supper take faith? Can you take it without faith? Can you sing, pray and give without faith? What role does faith play in your participation of these things?
FRIDAY: Faith at the Red Sea (Hebrews 11:29)
1. Read the story of the crossing at the Red Sea. (Exodus 13:17-14:31)
2. Did it look like the Hebrews had much faith when Pharaoh approached (Exodus 14:10-12)? How did Moses respond to their doubts and fears (Exodus 14:13)? What did God tell Moses to tell the Israelites to do (Exodus 14:15)? Why would moving on toward the seas take faith?
3. Have you ever felt trapped by a relationship, job, fear, etc? Has God told you to “move on” and yet you haven’t? What “trap” do you need to face by faith? Find someone to help you and begin moving.
SATURDAY: On the internet or using a hymnal look up some songs of faith. Spend a few minutes reading the lyrics or singing the songs before asking God to help you live like Moses when facing impossible odds.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Sunday, March 23, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH - Part 3
I know it has been a few weeks since I have posted. We will return to our study of Hebrews 11.
MONDAY: By Faith Abraham became a father (Hebrews 11:11-12)
The Hebrew author gives more space than to anyone else mentioned on his list. Abraham accepted God’s promises and acted on them even there was nothing indicated that they could possibly be fulfilled.
1.What couldn’t happen did happen because Abraham considered God “faithful”. Write down a definition of “faithful”?
2.What promise did God make to Abraham (Genesis 22:17)? Was it fulfilled (Deuteronomy 1:10)?
In what area of your life did you need to depend on the faithfulness of God?
TUESDAY: Looking for a new country (Hebrews 11:13-16)
1. The Hebrew writer is urging his readers to do remain faithful. Read Hebrews 3:14, 6:11. For how long does he want us to remain faithful?
2. Did the people in this passage receive all God had promised while here? Did they remain faithful?
3. What were they looking for? What can you do to keep from seeing this world as a place of permanence?
4. What makes heaven a “better country”?
WEDNESDAY: Hebrews 11:17-19 - A third illustration of Abram’s faith
1. Here it says that “God tested” Abraham. Contrast this verse to James 1:13-14. Is there a difference between a testing and a tempting? Why does God test us? (James 1:3-4; Job 23:10). 2. What is the purpose of temptation (James 1:15, I Peter 5:8)?
3. What did Abraham think God would do after he sacrificed Isaac (Hebrews 11:19)? Has God ever tested you? Did you pass the test? What tests are you going through right now? Who can help you pass these tests?
THURSDAY: Isaac and Jacob’s blessings and faith (Hebrews 11:20-21)
1. Isaac bestowing his blessings upon Jacob and Esau was filled with deceit, by Jacob, and controversy (See Genesis 17). However the Hebrew writer is not concerned with these details but is focusing on Isaac’s faith. When did Isaac give his son’s their blessings (Genesis 2,4)? The point is that Isaac blessed his son’s regarding their future and trusted God to help the boys fulfill their purpose.
2. When did Joseph’s bless each of Joseph’s sons? To whom does Joseph give the “greater blessing” (Genesis 48:1-22)? The lesson for us is that God is not bound by human rules. He fulfills his purposes as He chooses. Why did these actions take faith? Part of the reason lies in the fact that they were recognizing that God would take care of their future generations. Spend time in prayer asking God to bless your family’s future – even after you have left this earth.
FRIDAY: Joseph – by faith (Hebrews 11:22)
1. What did Joseph speak about by faith? (Genesis 50:24-26). What did Joseph want done with his bones?
2. We need to remember that it wasn’t until some 400 years later that this incident Joseph spoke about came to be. Did they remember to carry Joseph’s bones (Exodus 13:19)? We need to remember that somebody kept those bones for the 400 years they were in Egypt and carried them for the 40 years they were in the wilderness. Yet his descendents kept their promise.
Joseph’s faith is seen in his dying wish because he knew that God would keep the promise made to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-21) and that in God’s time He would act. What can you learn about the Israelites faith by keeping the bones for 400 years? How does that compare to your faith as you wait on God to fulfill his promises?
SATURDAY: Waiting by faith
1. Reviewing Hebrews 11:19-22 what one thing links these three examples of faith together (Genesis 27:2, 47:29, 50:22-26)?
2. All three men died without entering into the land God had promised them. Isaac was a nomad when he died; Jacob lived in exile in Egypt and Joseph although successful was living in a foreign land. Yet they never doubted that the promise would come true, they never lost hope.
They lived and died knowing that God promises are true. They may have not seen it fulfilled but they were a link in its fulfillment and their family for generations will be blessed because they did not doubt and in death they were rewarded with a heavenly home.
Have you given up on God because of a lack of faith? Take some time to rededicate yourself to trusting God and his word no matter what. And if the answer does not come in this life – stay faithful and be ready to receive the reward in the next life.
MONDAY: By Faith Abraham became a father (Hebrews 11:11-12)
The Hebrew author gives more space than to anyone else mentioned on his list. Abraham accepted God’s promises and acted on them even there was nothing indicated that they could possibly be fulfilled.
1.What couldn’t happen did happen because Abraham considered God “faithful”. Write down a definition of “faithful”?
2.What promise did God make to Abraham (Genesis 22:17)? Was it fulfilled (Deuteronomy 1:10)?
In what area of your life did you need to depend on the faithfulness of God?
TUESDAY: Looking for a new country (Hebrews 11:13-16)
1. The Hebrew writer is urging his readers to do remain faithful. Read Hebrews 3:14, 6:11. For how long does he want us to remain faithful?
2. Did the people in this passage receive all God had promised while here? Did they remain faithful?
3. What were they looking for? What can you do to keep from seeing this world as a place of permanence?
4. What makes heaven a “better country”?
WEDNESDAY: Hebrews 11:17-19 - A third illustration of Abram’s faith
1. Here it says that “God tested” Abraham. Contrast this verse to James 1:13-14. Is there a difference between a testing and a tempting? Why does God test us? (James 1:3-4; Job 23:10). 2. What is the purpose of temptation (James 1:15, I Peter 5:8)?
3. What did Abraham think God would do after he sacrificed Isaac (Hebrews 11:19)? Has God ever tested you? Did you pass the test? What tests are you going through right now? Who can help you pass these tests?
THURSDAY: Isaac and Jacob’s blessings and faith (Hebrews 11:20-21)
1. Isaac bestowing his blessings upon Jacob and Esau was filled with deceit, by Jacob, and controversy (See Genesis 17). However the Hebrew writer is not concerned with these details but is focusing on Isaac’s faith. When did Isaac give his son’s their blessings (Genesis 2,4)? The point is that Isaac blessed his son’s regarding their future and trusted God to help the boys fulfill their purpose.
2. When did Joseph’s bless each of Joseph’s sons? To whom does Joseph give the “greater blessing” (Genesis 48:1-22)? The lesson for us is that God is not bound by human rules. He fulfills his purposes as He chooses. Why did these actions take faith? Part of the reason lies in the fact that they were recognizing that God would take care of their future generations. Spend time in prayer asking God to bless your family’s future – even after you have left this earth.
FRIDAY: Joseph – by faith (Hebrews 11:22)
1. What did Joseph speak about by faith? (Genesis 50:24-26). What did Joseph want done with his bones?
2. We need to remember that it wasn’t until some 400 years later that this incident Joseph spoke about came to be. Did they remember to carry Joseph’s bones (Exodus 13:19)? We need to remember that somebody kept those bones for the 400 years they were in Egypt and carried them for the 40 years they were in the wilderness. Yet his descendents kept their promise.
Joseph’s faith is seen in his dying wish because he knew that God would keep the promise made to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-21) and that in God’s time He would act. What can you learn about the Israelites faith by keeping the bones for 400 years? How does that compare to your faith as you wait on God to fulfill his promises?
SATURDAY: Waiting by faith
1. Reviewing Hebrews 11:19-22 what one thing links these three examples of faith together (Genesis 27:2, 47:29, 50:22-26)?
2. All three men died without entering into the land God had promised them. Isaac was a nomad when he died; Jacob lived in exile in Egypt and Joseph although successful was living in a foreign land. Yet they never doubted that the promise would come true, they never lost hope.
They lived and died knowing that God promises are true. They may have not seen it fulfilled but they were a link in its fulfillment and their family for generations will be blessed because they did not doubt and in death they were rewarded with a heavenly home.
Have you given up on God because of a lack of faith? Take some time to rededicate yourself to trusting God and his word no matter what. And if the answer does not come in this life – stay faithful and be ready to receive the reward in the next life.
Friday, February 29, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH – Part 2
This week we will continue our study of Hebrews 11 as we learn how to better live by faith in our world by looking at the loves of some of God’s best faith walkers.
MONDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BUILT AN ARK.
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. What “things not yet seen” was Noah warned about? By faith what was Noah moved to do (See Genesis 6:13-17)?
2. How would you describe “holy fear”? How can “holy fear” motivate us to obey God? Look up the words “reverence” and “awe”. What can you learn about “holy fear” from these definitions.
3. How did Noah’s faith affect his family? How does your faith affect your family? Do they see you obeying God when the rest of the world does not? What step of faith do you need to take to help save your family/
TUESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH CONDEMNED THE WORLD
1. How is Noah described in Genesis 6:8-9 (Look for four descriptions)?
2. Would your friends or co-workers, family call you “blameless”? With whom would they say you “walk with”? Why do you think Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord?
3. How did Noah’s faith condemn the world? How did the world’s belief differ from Noah’s (See Genesis 6:5 and Genesis 6:9)? What affect does your faith have on those in your world?
WEDNESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BECAME AN HEIR OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. Noah was the first man in the Bible to be called “righteous (Genesis 6:9). Righteousness is being right with God. Noah was right with God because he took God at his word, he believed what God said and he acted on it.
2. Notice that being “right with God” comes by faith not by rule keeping or ritual. Read Romans 10:17, James 2:23, Romans 1:17, Romans 3:20-24. What do you learn about the relationship of faith to being righteous (right with God)?
3. As an heir of righteousness in what area of your life do you need to learn to trust God more? Pray about that area giving it to God.
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED….
1. Read Hebrews 11: 8. Where was Abraham called to go? According to Genesis 12:1, what was Abram ham called to leave?
2. What would be the hardest part about living your country and moving to another country? What fears would you have? What would be the hardest part about “leaving your people” and moving to another culture? What would be the hardest part about leaving your family?
3. How old was Abraham when God told him to leave? Did Abraham know where God ascending him?
4. What if your spouse, child, or other family member came to you and said, “I am moving away tomorrow to another country and I don’t know where I am going but God told me to go there so I am going”. What would your advice be to them?
5. What in your life has God told you to leave (a habit, job, a situation, etc.)? What is keeping you from trusting God and doing what he says? What do you need to do so by faith you can obey God in that area?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM LIVED IN TENTS
1. Read Hebrews 11:9. Where did Abraham make his home? Who were Isaac and Jacob? Why did all three of them live in tents?
2. What city were they really looking forward to?
3. Who else are recipients of this promised city (Galatians 3:26-29)?
4. Look up two verses about heaven. What about your new home are you looking forward to the most?
SATURDAY: Using a hymnal or the internet – look up some hymns of faith. Read or sing the words. Ask God to help you live in faith by obeying even when you don’t understand what all is going to happen as Noah and Abraham did.
MONDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BUILT AN ARK.
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. What “things not yet seen” was Noah warned about? By faith what was Noah moved to do (See Genesis 6:13-17)?
2. How would you describe “holy fear”? How can “holy fear” motivate us to obey God? Look up the words “reverence” and “awe”. What can you learn about “holy fear” from these definitions.
3. How did Noah’s faith affect his family? How does your faith affect your family? Do they see you obeying God when the rest of the world does not? What step of faith do you need to take to help save your family/
TUESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH CONDEMNED THE WORLD
1. How is Noah described in Genesis 6:8-9 (Look for four descriptions)?
2. Would your friends or co-workers, family call you “blameless”? With whom would they say you “walk with”? Why do you think Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord?
3. How did Noah’s faith condemn the world? How did the world’s belief differ from Noah’s (See Genesis 6:5 and Genesis 6:9)? What affect does your faith have on those in your world?
WEDNESDAY: BY FAITH NOAH BECAME AN HEIR OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. Read Hebrews 11:7. Noah was the first man in the Bible to be called “righteous (Genesis 6:9). Righteousness is being right with God. Noah was right with God because he took God at his word, he believed what God said and he acted on it.
2. Notice that being “right with God” comes by faith not by rule keeping or ritual. Read Romans 10:17, James 2:23, Romans 1:17, Romans 3:20-24. What do you learn about the relationship of faith to being righteous (right with God)?
3. As an heir of righteousness in what area of your life do you need to learn to trust God more? Pray about that area giving it to God.
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED….
1. Read Hebrews 11: 8. Where was Abraham called to go? According to Genesis 12:1, what was Abram ham called to leave?
2. What would be the hardest part about living your country and moving to another country? What fears would you have? What would be the hardest part about “leaving your people” and moving to another culture? What would be the hardest part about leaving your family?
3. How old was Abraham when God told him to leave? Did Abraham know where God ascending him?
4. What if your spouse, child, or other family member came to you and said, “I am moving away tomorrow to another country and I don’t know where I am going but God told me to go there so I am going”. What would your advice be to them?
5. What in your life has God told you to leave (a habit, job, a situation, etc.)? What is keeping you from trusting God and doing what he says? What do you need to do so by faith you can obey God in that area?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ABRAHAM LIVED IN TENTS
1. Read Hebrews 11:9. Where did Abraham make his home? Who were Isaac and Jacob? Why did all three of them live in tents?
2. What city were they really looking forward to?
3. Who else are recipients of this promised city (Galatians 3:26-29)?
4. Look up two verses about heaven. What about your new home are you looking forward to the most?
SATURDAY: Using a hymnal or the internet – look up some hymns of faith. Read or sing the words. Ask God to help you live in faith by obeying even when you don’t understand what all is going to happen as Noah and Abraham did.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
HELL
This week we are going to take an unpleasant journey as we look at what the Bible says about hell. A real place prepared for the devil and his angels. We will return to the “Living by Faith” study next week.
MONDAY: Read Luke 16:19-31
1. How many times does Jesus use the word “torment” or “agony” when telling this story? Look up the definitions of these two words? What type of things tormented the rich man who was in hell?
2. What lessons can we learn from verses 29-31? Who is that you need to warn about hell? What is keeping you from doing it?
TUESDAY: Read Matthew 25:31-46
1. According to this story what six actions will Jesus use as a basis for judgment?
For whom are they done – now and ultimately (verse 40)?
2. How does Jesus describe the reward waiting for the “sheep” (Verses 34, 46)?
3. How does he describe the punishment waiting for the “goats” (Verses 41, 46)?
4. Define “eternal”.
5. Review the six areas Jesus mentions. In which area are you the most comfortable in doing? Which area is the most difficult? Think of someone you can help this week in one of these six areas and as a LIFE group, family or individual look to serve them.
WEDNESDAY: Read Matthew 8:12, 13:42, 22:13, 25:30
1. How does Jesus describe hell in these verses? What emotions come to your mind when you see the words “weeping and gnashing of teeth”?
2. How do you think life would be if you never saw light?
3. Using the descriptions above draw a picture or wrote a poem or paragraph of what you would think hell would be like?
THURSDAY: Read Mark 9:43-48
1. Jesus is using hyperbole to make a point. What point is he making?
2. What do we learn about hell in this passage?
3. The Greek word used for “Hell” is “gehenna”. It is a Greek form of the words used to describe a ravine located on the south side of Jerusalem which was used in Old Testament times as place were idolatrous human sacrifices were performed (Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5-6, 32:35). King Josiah put a stop to this practice (2 Kings 23:10). The valley eventually became a “city dump” where trash, human excrement, animal carcasses and at times dead bodies of executed criminals were dumped. There was a fire constantly burning and worms (maggots) were always prevalent. This place became to be used symbolically to describe hell. Imagine the scene – how would you describe the smell? What sounds would you hear? How do you feel about maggots? What point is Jesus making about hell?
FRIDAY: Read Revelation 20:10, 14,15 and Revelation 21:8
1. How is ultimate defeat of Satan and his followers described in these verses? How long will they be tormented?
2. Who will be thrown into this lake?
3. How does one get his name “written in the book of life”?
SATURDAY: We have spent the week focusing on what the Bible says of the destiny of those who reject Jesus. Read John 3:16. To whom is eternal life promised? Why did God send Jesus to earth (John 3:17)? The point is God does not send anyone to hell. We have a choice. Trust Jesus or trust in our on goodness. Where are you in your relationship with Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of your sins? Do you have a relationship with him? Do you trust in Him for salvation or in your own goodness or religious acts?
MONDAY: Read Luke 16:19-31
1. How many times does Jesus use the word “torment” or “agony” when telling this story? Look up the definitions of these two words? What type of things tormented the rich man who was in hell?
2. What lessons can we learn from verses 29-31? Who is that you need to warn about hell? What is keeping you from doing it?
TUESDAY: Read Matthew 25:31-46
1. According to this story what six actions will Jesus use as a basis for judgment?
For whom are they done – now and ultimately (verse 40)?
2. How does Jesus describe the reward waiting for the “sheep” (Verses 34, 46)?
3. How does he describe the punishment waiting for the “goats” (Verses 41, 46)?
4. Define “eternal”.
5. Review the six areas Jesus mentions. In which area are you the most comfortable in doing? Which area is the most difficult? Think of someone you can help this week in one of these six areas and as a LIFE group, family or individual look to serve them.
WEDNESDAY: Read Matthew 8:12, 13:42, 22:13, 25:30
1. How does Jesus describe hell in these verses? What emotions come to your mind when you see the words “weeping and gnashing of teeth”?
2. How do you think life would be if you never saw light?
3. Using the descriptions above draw a picture or wrote a poem or paragraph of what you would think hell would be like?
THURSDAY: Read Mark 9:43-48
1. Jesus is using hyperbole to make a point. What point is he making?
2. What do we learn about hell in this passage?
3. The Greek word used for “Hell” is “gehenna”. It is a Greek form of the words used to describe a ravine located on the south side of Jerusalem which was used in Old Testament times as place were idolatrous human sacrifices were performed (Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5-6, 32:35). King Josiah put a stop to this practice (2 Kings 23:10). The valley eventually became a “city dump” where trash, human excrement, animal carcasses and at times dead bodies of executed criminals were dumped. There was a fire constantly burning and worms (maggots) were always prevalent. This place became to be used symbolically to describe hell. Imagine the scene – how would you describe the smell? What sounds would you hear? How do you feel about maggots? What point is Jesus making about hell?
FRIDAY: Read Revelation 20:10, 14,15 and Revelation 21:8
1. How is ultimate defeat of Satan and his followers described in these verses? How long will they be tormented?
2. Who will be thrown into this lake?
3. How does one get his name “written in the book of life”?
SATURDAY: We have spent the week focusing on what the Bible says of the destiny of those who reject Jesus. Read John 3:16. To whom is eternal life promised? Why did God send Jesus to earth (John 3:17)? The point is God does not send anyone to hell. We have a choice. Trust Jesus or trust in our on goodness. Where are you in your relationship with Jesus? Have you been baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of your sins? Do you have a relationship with him? Do you trust in Him for salvation or in your own goodness or religious acts?
Friday, February 15, 2008
LIVING BY FAITH - Part 1
The book of Hebrews is written to Jewish Christians who are struggling with keeping their faith in the face of persecution. The writer encourages them to stay strong. Hebrews 11 is a review of some of God’s people who lived by faith. This week we will focus on some of these “Heroes of Faith”
MONDAY: Hebrews 10:35-39
1. Read Hebrews 10:35-39. What does God promise those who do not “throw away their confidence”? Make a list of some things that may tempt someone to “lose your confidence” in God. Have you ever been tempted to lose your confidence in God? Who or what helped you to persevere? Are you struggling with your confidence with God now? If so, who can you talk too help you stay strong?
2. How does God say his “righteous one” will live? While we wait to meet God we have to options: Live by faith or shrink back. What does God says will happen to those who shrink back? To those who believe?
3. What do I need to do help me not to “shrink back” in my faith? Are their some schedule changes I need to make? Relationships I need to change? Habits I need to develop or give up? Identify some changes you can make in your life that will strengthen your faith. Share them with someone and ask them to help you make those changes.
TUESDAY: Hebrews 11:1, 6 FAITH DESCRIBED
1. How would you describe “faith” if asked to do so using one word?
What verbs does the Hebrew writer use in verses 1 and 6 to describe faith?
2. What do you “hope for” in Christ? We do not see heaven. Are you confident that you are going?
3. The “ancients” were commended be cause they believed God’s promises and His handling of the future even though they had no tangible evidence proof of that future other than God’s truthfulness. What fears about the future do you have? How can your faith in God help you alleviate those fears?
4. Taking the verbs you found in verses 1 and 6 write your own definition of faith in God. Share it with someone.
WEDNESDAY: UNDERSTANDING BY FAITH (Hebrews 11:3)
1. God continues to commend the ancients who lived by faith by giving us some specific examples. 18 times the writer uses the phrase “by faith”. We will look at some of them to see how we are to live by faith.
2. Read Hebrews 11:3. As believers what do we understand by faith?
No one was around when the universe began, therefore we believe it was spoken into existence by God or was an accidental big bang we have to accept our belief by faith. Talk with your family about what they are taught in school about the beginning of the world. Compare what they are taught with the following verses: Psalm 33:6-9, Genesis 1:1, Psalm 139:13-16
3. In what do evolutionists want us to put our faith? Which do you think takes more faith?
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABEL OFFERED
1. Read the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-16. Besides the Hebrews 11 and Genesis 4 Cain is mentioned two other times in the Bible: I John 3:12, Jude 11. What words are used to describe Cain? Read Matthew 23:5. How is Abel described?
2. Read Genesis 4:3-6. What was the difference between Abel’s sacrifice and Cain’s? What does the words “fat portions” and “first fruits” show about Abel’s sacrifice?
3. God did not dislike Cain’s sacrifice because it was not an animal but God disliked the attitude in which Cain offered his sacrifice. He took “some” of the fruits. It was not an offering given out of faith.
4. How does Abel still speak to us today? What is he telling us?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ENOCH…
1. Read Hebrews 11:5 and Genesis 5:22-24. What unusual blessing did Enoch receive?
2. How is Enoch’s relationship with God described in Genesis 5:24? Would you describe your relationship with God as “walking with God”, “running ahead of God”, “running from God”, or “lagging behind God”?
3. What does the phrase “walking with God” imply about Enoch’s relationship with God?
4. By faith Enoch did not experience death. What do we as Christians, by faith, know about physical death (See John 11:25-26, I Corinthians 15:54-57)?
5. How has your view of death changed since becoming a Christian? What question does Jesus ask Martha in John 11:26? How do you answer that question?
SATURDAY: THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH
1. Read Hebrews 11:6. Playing off of Enoch’s commendation of one who pleased God what do we learn about the importance of faith in our lives?
2. What two facets of faith in God are needed if I am to come to God?
3. Has their ever been a crisis or situation in your life where you wondered of God existed? (Read Job 23:8-10 - How did Job deal with wondering about God’s presence in the midst of his hard times. What did he conclude? How have you come “forth as gold” when you kept faith in tough times?)
4. Whom does God reward? How does one earnestly seek God? How would you contrast an earnest seeker with an occasional seeker? Which type of seeker are you? How can knowing that God rewards you keep you going?
MONDAY: Hebrews 10:35-39
1. Read Hebrews 10:35-39. What does God promise those who do not “throw away their confidence”? Make a list of some things that may tempt someone to “lose your confidence” in God. Have you ever been tempted to lose your confidence in God? Who or what helped you to persevere? Are you struggling with your confidence with God now? If so, who can you talk too help you stay strong?
2. How does God say his “righteous one” will live? While we wait to meet God we have to options: Live by faith or shrink back. What does God says will happen to those who shrink back? To those who believe?
3. What do I need to do help me not to “shrink back” in my faith? Are their some schedule changes I need to make? Relationships I need to change? Habits I need to develop or give up? Identify some changes you can make in your life that will strengthen your faith. Share them with someone and ask them to help you make those changes.
TUESDAY: Hebrews 11:1, 6 FAITH DESCRIBED
1. How would you describe “faith” if asked to do so using one word?
What verbs does the Hebrew writer use in verses 1 and 6 to describe faith?
2. What do you “hope for” in Christ? We do not see heaven. Are you confident that you are going?
3. The “ancients” were commended be cause they believed God’s promises and His handling of the future even though they had no tangible evidence proof of that future other than God’s truthfulness. What fears about the future do you have? How can your faith in God help you alleviate those fears?
4. Taking the verbs you found in verses 1 and 6 write your own definition of faith in God. Share it with someone.
WEDNESDAY: UNDERSTANDING BY FAITH (Hebrews 11:3)
1. God continues to commend the ancients who lived by faith by giving us some specific examples. 18 times the writer uses the phrase “by faith”. We will look at some of them to see how we are to live by faith.
2. Read Hebrews 11:3. As believers what do we understand by faith?
No one was around when the universe began, therefore we believe it was spoken into existence by God or was an accidental big bang we have to accept our belief by faith. Talk with your family about what they are taught in school about the beginning of the world. Compare what they are taught with the following verses: Psalm 33:6-9, Genesis 1:1, Psalm 139:13-16
3. In what do evolutionists want us to put our faith? Which do you think takes more faith?
THURSDAY: BY FAITH ABEL OFFERED
1. Read the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-16. Besides the Hebrews 11 and Genesis 4 Cain is mentioned two other times in the Bible: I John 3:12, Jude 11. What words are used to describe Cain? Read Matthew 23:5. How is Abel described?
2. Read Genesis 4:3-6. What was the difference between Abel’s sacrifice and Cain’s? What does the words “fat portions” and “first fruits” show about Abel’s sacrifice?
3. God did not dislike Cain’s sacrifice because it was not an animal but God disliked the attitude in which Cain offered his sacrifice. He took “some” of the fruits. It was not an offering given out of faith.
4. How does Abel still speak to us today? What is he telling us?
FRIDAY: BY FAITH ENOCH…
1. Read Hebrews 11:5 and Genesis 5:22-24. What unusual blessing did Enoch receive?
2. How is Enoch’s relationship with God described in Genesis 5:24? Would you describe your relationship with God as “walking with God”, “running ahead of God”, “running from God”, or “lagging behind God”?
3. What does the phrase “walking with God” imply about Enoch’s relationship with God?
4. By faith Enoch did not experience death. What do we as Christians, by faith, know about physical death (See John 11:25-26, I Corinthians 15:54-57)?
5. How has your view of death changed since becoming a Christian? What question does Jesus ask Martha in John 11:26? How do you answer that question?
SATURDAY: THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH
1. Read Hebrews 11:6. Playing off of Enoch’s commendation of one who pleased God what do we learn about the importance of faith in our lives?
2. What two facets of faith in God are needed if I am to come to God?
3. Has their ever been a crisis or situation in your life where you wondered of God existed? (Read Job 23:8-10 - How did Job deal with wondering about God’s presence in the midst of his hard times. What did he conclude? How have you come “forth as gold” when you kept faith in tough times?)
4. Whom does God reward? How does one earnestly seek God? How would you contrast an earnest seeker with an occasional seeker? Which type of seeker are you? How can knowing that God rewards you keep you going?
Saturday, February 9, 2008
FLU BUG
Our house was hit by the flu bug pretty hard this week, so there will not be a lesson posted. Sorry and hopefully we can get back in the groove this next week. If their is a week on here you haven't done maybe you can follw one of them as a guide.
Thanks
Woody
Thanks
Woody
Thursday, January 31, 2008
THE LOVE OF GOD
MONDAY: Read I John 4:7-21
How many times is “love” mentioned in this passage? From where did love come?
How did God show his love for us?
How God’s love is made complete in us?
Who does God call a liar?
FAITH STEP: How can you put the sacrificial love God describes here in practice at your job or school? In your relationships at church? At home?
TUESDAY: Characteristics of God’s love
Read the following passages. How is God’s love for his people described?
Isaiah 49:15, 16; Zephaniah 3:17, Jeremiah 31:3, Ephesians 2:4
FAITH STEP: Write a note to God thanking him for his love for you
WEDNESDAY: God’s love seen in Hosea (Hosea is a great book that dhows the greatness of God’s love. You may want to do some research to get some background on this book as we have a small look into this book.)
Read Hosea 1:1-11. Why Does God command Hosea to marry and adulteress?
What do the name’s of Gomer’s three children mean? How do you think people would react to these children’s name?
FAITH STEPS: God uses the marriage metaphor to describe His people’s relationship to Him. Using that same metaphor, how would you describe your relationship to God? Stronger than ever? I have been unfaithful? We are “going through the motions”?
THURSDAY: Read Hosea 2:1-23
In verses 2:2-13: How does Hosea feel about Gomer? How does he want to punish her?
What does God tell Hosea to do in Hosea 3:1-5. What would be the toughest part of what Hosea had to do? What do you think his friends thought? What lesson is God teaching us about his love?
FAITH STEP: When did God “buy you back” so you could have a loving relationship with him? Who did God use to lead you to Him?
FRIDAY: Hosea 11:1-11 Describes God’s love for His people. See what we can learn from this passage about God’s love
In verses 1-4 what images does God use to describe his love?
How does God’s person respond to His love (verses 5-7)?
How does God react to their rebellion (verse 8-9)?
How does God show his love (verses 11-12)?
FAITH STEP: Have you ever had to discipline your children? How can administering discipline be a loving act? Discuss that concept with your children. Has God ever had to discipline you? What comfort do you take in God’s enduring love for His children?
SATURDAY: Hosea 14
How does promise to love His people who repent and return to Him (verse 4)?
Read Titus 3:3-7. By what were we enslaved according to Paul? Why did God save us? What should our response to God’s love be?
FAITH STEP: Looking at this passage what do you see as God’s purpose for your life? What can you change to better fulfill that purpose?
How many times is “love” mentioned in this passage? From where did love come?
How did God show his love for us?
How God’s love is made complete in us?
Who does God call a liar?
FAITH STEP: How can you put the sacrificial love God describes here in practice at your job or school? In your relationships at church? At home?
TUESDAY: Characteristics of God’s love
Read the following passages. How is God’s love for his people described?
Isaiah 49:15, 16; Zephaniah 3:17, Jeremiah 31:3, Ephesians 2:4
FAITH STEP: Write a note to God thanking him for his love for you
WEDNESDAY: God’s love seen in Hosea (Hosea is a great book that dhows the greatness of God’s love. You may want to do some research to get some background on this book as we have a small look into this book.)
Read Hosea 1:1-11. Why Does God command Hosea to marry and adulteress?
What do the name’s of Gomer’s three children mean? How do you think people would react to these children’s name?
FAITH STEPS: God uses the marriage metaphor to describe His people’s relationship to Him. Using that same metaphor, how would you describe your relationship to God? Stronger than ever? I have been unfaithful? We are “going through the motions”?
THURSDAY: Read Hosea 2:1-23
In verses 2:2-13: How does Hosea feel about Gomer? How does he want to punish her?
What does God tell Hosea to do in Hosea 3:1-5. What would be the toughest part of what Hosea had to do? What do you think his friends thought? What lesson is God teaching us about his love?
FAITH STEP: When did God “buy you back” so you could have a loving relationship with him? Who did God use to lead you to Him?
FRIDAY: Hosea 11:1-11 Describes God’s love for His people. See what we can learn from this passage about God’s love
In verses 1-4 what images does God use to describe his love?
How does God’s person respond to His love (verses 5-7)?
How does God react to their rebellion (verse 8-9)?
How does God show his love (verses 11-12)?
FAITH STEP: Have you ever had to discipline your children? How can administering discipline be a loving act? Discuss that concept with your children. Has God ever had to discipline you? What comfort do you take in God’s enduring love for His children?
SATURDAY: Hosea 14
How does promise to love His people who repent and return to Him (verse 4)?
Read Titus 3:3-7. By what were we enslaved according to Paul? Why did God save us? What should our response to God’s love be?
FAITH STEP: Looking at this passage what do you see as God’s purpose for your life? What can you change to better fulfill that purpose?
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