Bible Study

To find the Bible passages in the NRSV version online, go to http://bible.oremus.org/.

Coming next:

First Sunday of Lent, February 26, 2012

Genesis 9:8-17

Psalm 25:1-10

Mark 1:9-15

1 Peter 3:18-22

Transfiguration Sunday, February 19, 2012

Experiencing God in your Life

2 Kings 2:1-12

Psalm 50:1-6

Mark 9:2-9

2 Corinthians 4:3-6

1. Who was Elijah and what was about to happen to him according to this passage from 2 Kings 2? Who in this passage is so devoted to Elijah that he will not leave his presence? Who kept trying to persuade Elisha to abandon Elijah and why? What was the standard response from Elisha?

2. What river did Elijah and Elisha cross? What might be the significance of this river? What did Elijah use to clear the water so he could cross on dry ground? What does Elijah ask Elisha in verse 9, and how does Elisha respond? What does Elisha request and what is he asking for? How is Elijah’s ascension described? Is verse 11 to be read literally or figuratively? In effect, what did both Elijah and Elisha experience?

3. What is a psalm? How is God described in verse 1 of Psalm 50? What does verse 1 mean in your won words? How is Jerusalem described in verse 2 and who is given credit for this description? How is God described in verse 3? What does verse 4 mean?

4. How does the psalmist describe God in verse 6? If you believed Deuteronomic law, how might you define God? What does covenant mean? Has God ever made covenants with humanity? Have these covenants changed or have we merely learned the correct meaning of God’s covenant?

5. In the passage before the Mark passage immediately prior to today’s reading from Mark, Jesus tells the disciples for the first time he will suffer, be rejected, and be killed. Six days later, what happens? What does transfigured mean? What is the significance of the two people who join Jesus, and why do you think this was significant for Jesus?

6. Who interrupts Jesus, and what does this person want to do? How does the narrator describe Peter (v. 6)? What reassuring words does God give Jesus? What does God direct Peter, James, and John to do? What is necessary to listen to someone else? Are you listening for and to Christ? When you do, what happens in your life?

7. What does Paul state that can cause us to misunderstand the Good News or to ignore it altogether? What are some examples of the god of this world? What do you worship? If you proclaim Jesus, why do you do so—is it to build yourself up?

8. What does “let light shine out of darkness” mean—literally and figuratively in regard to Jesus? Is you light shining out of darkness? Ask yourself again what you worship: what do you think about, where do you spend your time, and how do you spend your money? Answering these questions may reveal what your worship.

Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany, February 12, 2012

Listening to and Proclaiming about God

2 Kings 5:1-15, 18

Psalm 30

Mark 1:40-45;

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

1. Who was Naaman and of what physical condition was he suffering and what did that mean for him? Who offered advice about how Naaman could be healed, and what was that advice? Where did the King of Aram send Naaman for healing? How does the King of Israel react when Naaman shows up for healing? Who saves the King of Israel from making a mistake?

2. When Naaman shows up at Elisha’s house, what does Elisha do in regard to healing Naaman? How does Naaman react? Have you ever been too proud or arrogant to accept a gift or accept help from someone who you thought was “below” you? When Naaman does what Elisha tells him to do, what does Naaman do in return (v. 15)? Besides being healed of a physical disease, what else has happened to Naaman? How do you think Naaman might go a proclaim God?

3. What happened to the psalmist vv. 6-7)? What did the psalmist do when this happened (vv.8-10)? Have you ever thought you had all the security in life you needed and then seen some or all of it taken away by tragedy? Who did you call on for help?

4. So, what happened to the psalmist after he cried to God for help (vv. 1-3)? How does the psalmist express his gratitude to God (vv. 4-5, 11-12)? How do you express your gratitude to God for healing, for life, and for salvation?

5. Who asks for help from Jesus in the passage from Mark, and what is the person’s physical condition? What does Jesus do in response to the request? Why? In effect, what was Jesus doing when he healed the person? What does Jesus tell the man to do in verse 14, and why do you think this was Jesus’ response?

6. What does the person do who was healed by Jesus? Have you encountered Christ in your life? Have you received a form of healing by Christ? How did you respond? What was the reaction to your witness?

7. What race is Paul really talking about in the passage from 1 Corinthians 9? What prize is Paul talking about? Do you really have to be first to receive the prize?

8. To win an Olympic race, do you have to train; do you have to deny yourself anything? If the race is drawing closer to Christ and to perfection, what do you proclaim to others? If on your race to perfection your actions show you are no longer denying yourself but instead living in the flesh, what impact will that have on those around you—will your witness be invalidated?

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, February 5, 2012

Proclaiming God

Isaiah 40:21-31

Psalm 147:1-11, 20c

Mark 1:29-39;

1 Corinthians 9:16-23

1. Who is the prophet Isaiah asking about (v. 21)? Isaiah is addressing people who are probably in exile in Babylonia, and some of them were born there and did not know Yahweh or others had just forgotten. How does the prophet compare God to humans in verses 22-23? If the Israelites living in Babylon were weak or not knowledgeable, what gods might they have turned to? And how does the prophet respond (vv. 25-26)?

2. Isaiah challenges someone who seems to have given up on God in verse 27. How does Isaiah respond in verses 28-31? Have you ever known someone who believes God has forsaken him or her? Now you have some passages you can share with them offering encouragement. How about you right now—do you need to hear this Good News?

3. What is the psalmist doing in Psalm 147? Sure—he is praising the Lord and in so doing he is proclaiming God. When good things happen to you do you enjoy celebrating? Do you enjoy giving thanks to the person who helped you achieve this goodness? What is the psalmist proclaiming (vv. 1-6, 8-9)?

4. So, according to the psalmist, how does God liked to be thanked and praised--sacrifices, success in winning a race, making the best test score, or making the most money (v. 11)? If you love God and are awed by God’s graciousness, how do you respond? How do you proclaim God?

5. How does Jesus go about proclaiming the Good News in verses 29-32? So, what are the various means by which a person can proclaim God?

6. Do you think proclaiming God is an easy task? What did Jesus need to do in verse 35? What conversation might Jesus have carried on with God? Once the disciples find Jesus, what does Jesus say he and the disciples must do in the neighboring towns? What do you think Jesus meant—preaching or more?

7. If you love someone, do you help them because it is an obligation or because of your love for them? What do you make of Paul’s statement that he has an obligation to proclaim the Good News? Paul had a personal encounter with Christ that changed his life; he was filled with the Holy Spirit. Is Paul sharing the Good News so he can seek a reward? Do you think Paul meant that because of his love of Christ, he could not help but share that love with everyone—proclaiming God?

8. To what extent was Paul willing to go to help people understand the love of God in Christ? Do you love God? Then, how are you sharing and proclaiming that love to others? Are you willing to get outside your comfort zone to proclaim Jesus Christ?

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany, January 29, 2012

Knowing What To Do

Deuteronomy 18:15-20

Psalm 111

Mark 1:21-28;

1 Corinthians 8:1-13

1. What is a prophet? What does Moses tell the people of Israel they are to do in regard to prophets (v. 15)? Why did God decide to send prophets (16-18)? What are the consequences for people who do not heed the words of the prophet (v.19)? Who are they not listening to or ignoring?

2. Were there ever false prophets? Why would someone seek to be a prophet? Who makes the first move in the books of the Bible to create prophets? What are the consequences for false prophets? Are there true and false prophets today? How do you know the difference?

3. What are some examples of the works of God to which the psalmist might have been referring? What are some works of God today and do you study them? Do you think the psalmist meant physical food for those who fear God (v. 5)? What kind of food does God provide you?

4. According to the psalmist, how do we learn what to do (vv. 7-8)? How do you acquire wisdom? What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge? Are you wise or just knowledgeable?

5. What did Jesus do in the synagogue at Capernaum (v. 21)? What did Jesus appear to have that the scribes did not (v. 22)? What could be the difference—revisit the difference between knowledge and wisdom?

6. Who is truly listening to Jesus and how do we know that from this passage from Mark? What does Jesus do? What might be a modern day example of what Jesus can do? Why do people call what Jesus does a “new teaching”? Why is the teaching still new to so many, even in the church?

7. Why is food such a big deal? What was happening to people who were not yet strong in the faith of Jesus Christ? What might be a modern day example for someone new to Christianity?

8. Review this passage from 1 Corinthians and again answer what is the difference between knowledge and wisdom? Explain how love may convert knowledge into wisdom.

Third Sunday after the Epiphany, January 22, 2012

Knowing What To Do

Jonah 3:1-5, 10

Psalm 62:5-12

Mark 1:14-20;

1 Corinthians 7:25-31

1. What does Jonah do the second time the word of the Lord came to him? Do you remember what happened the first time the word of the Lord came to him—what happened? What message did Jonah bring and for whom? What is so ironic that God chose Jonah to bring this message to the people of Nineveh?

2. How did the people of Nineveh respond to the message delivered by Jonah? How did God respond to the action of the people of Nineveh? What are the consequences for us if we ignore the word of God or if we just quit listening?

3. In whom does the psalmist wait for and depend on for salvation? What does the psalmist call the people to do in verse 8? Does the psalmist limit who is allowed to make this call? How does the psalmist describe people with no wealth and power and those people with wealth and power (v. 9)? What does the psalmist mean since poetry is not literal?

4. In what are we not to place our confidence (v. 10)? But where do so many people look for security? What has the psalmist heard from God (v. 11)? What is the key to the relationship between humanity and God (v. 12)? Have you heard God lovingly calling your name? Are you listening?

5. How did Jesus begin his ministry (vv 14-15)? What does verse 15 mean? Do you think people were listening to Jesus as he walked through Galilee?

6. What does Jesus do for Simon, Andrew, James, and John? Were they listening? How do you know? Why do you think these four disciples dropped everything and followed Jesus? Is Jesus calling you? Are you going to follow him or not?

7. What did Paul believe was going to happen in the very near future based on the passage from 1 Corinthians? What does he tell the people to do? Was Paul correct about what was going to happen in the very near future? Has it happened yet?

8. What happens metaphorically when we decide to give our lives to Christ and follow Christ? When that happens, does it mean we fully understand the word of God or in fact God? So, what can we do?

Second Sunday after the Epiphany, January 15, 2012

1 Samuel 3:1-20

Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18

1 Corinthians 6:12-20;

John 1:43-51

1. Who were the parents of Samuel? Why was Samuel ministering to God under Eli in the Temple? How old was Samuel at this time? How do we know that the people were not listening to God at this time (v. 3:1)? What happened to Samuel in verses 4-7? If Samuel was serving in the Temple, what does it mean that the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to Samuel?

2. What does God reveal to Samuel in verse 11? How will people respond initially in what they hear? What could this mean? What does God tell Samuel (vv.12-14)? Who does Samuel tell and why? Why did Samuel become known as a prophet? What does it mean for “words to fall to the ground”?

3. How does the psalmist describe his relationship with God? Do you think the psalmist feels alone in the world? Do you think the psalmist believes anything about himself is secret from God? Do you believe you can keep anything secret from God? From whom do you most keep secrets—who do you lie to the most? Why?

4. What period of time does the psalmist believe God knew and will know the psalmist (vv. 13, 18)? How does it make you feel that God probably knows you better than you know yourself? How do you think you might learn more about your true self?

5. In verses 12-13 of 1 Corinthians 6, Paul is quoting slogans popular in Corinth. How would you summarize the slogans? What is the end result of all material items according to Paul (v. 13)? Why do you think Paul was so focused on fornication? Besides sexual encounters, what is the deeper meaning when Paul uses the word fornication?

6. How does Paul describe our bodies (v. 19)? What can be the consequences if we totally live in the flesh—totally self-centered? Who can be separated from God by the misuse of our bodies? How are we to utilize our bodies (v.20)? How are you doing in this account? What is your temple revealing to you?

7. What does the word “Epiphany” mean? What happens to Philip and then Nathaniel? How does Nathaniel first respond to the news from Philip (v. 46a)? How does Philip respond (v. 46b)?

8. How does Nathaniel describe Jesus in verse 49? Based on this response, how was Nathaniel understanding the mission of Jesus? How does Jesus begin to instruct Nathaniel otherwise? What do you think people believe will happen if you invite them to “Come and See” Jesus? When was the last time you invited someone to “Come and See?”

Baptism of the Lord Sunday, January 8, 2012

Genesis 1:1-5;

Psalm 29

Acts 19:1-7;

Mark 1:4-11

1. How many creation stories are there in the Book of Genesis? Out of what was the earth created according to this passage from Genesis (v. 1-2)? What is the deep and what are the waters (v. 2)? What did God create in verse 3?

2. How is what God created in verse 2 described in verses 4-5? What is meant by “first day?” Are these verses to be understood as facts or a story?

3. How do the first three verses begin and what does it mean? How do verses 3-9 begin? What does it mean? How are we to read a Psalm—history, poetry, metaphor?

4. How have you experienced the majesty of God and God’s creation? How do you describe what you have seen or experienced? What does the psalmist request for God’s people in verse (11)? What do you request from God and why?

5. Who is given credit for writing the Book of Acts? What else did he write? Where is Paul physically in the passage from Acts? Who does he encounter and what is the question Paul asks them? How do they respond? What action does Paul take and how do the disciples respond?

6. What is God doing in these verses from Acts that God also did in the first five verses of Genesis 1? Have you been baptized? What does it mean for you? What are you filled with now?

7. Where was John the baptizer doing his proclaiming? What could that location mean then and now? And what was John proclaiming and how was it symbolized? How was Jesus going to baptize?

8. Why is it important for Jesus to be baptized? Why is it important for us to know Jesus was baptized? Do you want to reaffirm your baptism? What difference might that mean for you and those around you?

First Sunday after Christmas, January 1, 2012

Isaiah 61:10-62:3;

Psalm 148

Galatians 4:1-7;

Luke 2:22-40

1. Chapter 61 of Isaiah finds the people of Israel and Judah back in Jerusalem around 520 BC. Why is prophet rejoicing? In the context of time and place where the word of God was shared, what is meant by garments of salvation and the robe of righteousness? How would you summarize verse 61:11 of Isaiah?

2. Have you been in exile and are you seeking restoration? What would that restoration be for you? What new thing would you have God do in your life? How would you react to God doing a new thing in your life—would you be like the prophet in Isaiah 62:1? Will other people see you and know the hand of God has been upon you?

3. For what is the Psalmist praising God (vv. 5, 14a)? Who is called to praise God?

4. What is so appropriate about reading this Psalm on this day? What has God promised humanity from the time of creation that is reaffirmed in this Psalm? How do you show praise to God for all God has done in your life—or do you?

5. To whom is this letter written—where were they? How does Paul describe his listeners in 4:1? Who is responsible for these people (v. 2)? Consequently, to what were these people enslaved to as stated in verse 3?

6. Who did God send to redeem the listeners and the rest of the world? What is God offering to do for and to us (v. 5)? What has God sent into us to cause us to seek a relationship with God through Christ (v. 6)? Are you seeking a relationship with Christ—why or why not? If not, to what are you a slave?

7. Why is purification required and of whom (v. 22)? What were Mary and Joseph required to do under the law according to verse 23 and further explained in Exodus 13:1-4?

8. Who were Simeon and Anna? What is the word of God each of them brings to the people in the Temple? According to the passage in Luke, how did Simeon gain this knowledge and who guided him? Who does Simeon recognize and who will benefit from this revelation (vv.31-33)? How does this differ from Anna’s statement in verse 38? What else does Mary now have to ponder in her heart (vv. 34-35)? What are you looking for? What are you pondering in your heart?

Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 18, 2011

2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16;

Luke 1:46b-55;

Romans 16:25-27;

Luke 1:26-38

1. Who was David, what was his position, and how did he get to that position (v.1, 8)? Who was Nathan? What question did David ask Nathan and how did Nathan originally respond? Did Nathan subsequently change his answer and why?

2. What kind of relationship has God had with David (v. (9)? What promises does God make (9-11)? What promise does God make in verse 16 that the writer of the Gospel of Matthew wants us to remember? Will God abandon us?

3. What is the name given to this passage from Luke 1? To whom is given credit for saying these words? Turn to 1 Samuel 2:1-10 and read it. To whom do both these women give thanks and praise?

4. Reread verse 49 of Luke 1 and ask yourself what great things God has done for you? In response, did you respond as did Mary in verses 46b-47? What promise does Mary call us to remember in verse 55? Do you believe it?

5. A doxology is a form of praise to God and is illustrated in the last three verses of the book of Romans. How does Paul describe this book (25a)? How does Paul say this knowledge came about (25b)? What mystery or mysteries could Paul be talking about in verses 25b -26?

6. According to Paul, why has this mystery been made to Jews and Gentiles alike (v. 26b)? Why is faith so difficult? To what are we called to be obedient—what actions are required on our part?

7. Who brought a message to Mary? What was the message and how does Mary react initially (v. 29)? What words of comfort does the messenger give her? Yet, Mary still has a question—how (34)? And what is the answer (35)? What evidence does the messenger give Mary of God’s power (v. 36)?

8. What two statements are made by the messenger about what God will or can do (vv. 33, 37)? How does Mary respond? How would you describe Mary? How would you describe yourself in relation to Christ?

Third Sunday of Advent, December 11, 2011

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11;

Psalm 126;

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24;

John 1:6-8, 19-28

1. The passage from chapter 61 of Isaiah occurs when the people who were in exile have now returned to Judah. To what do you think the prophet is referring in regard to rebuilding? What do these first three verses of chapter 61 signify will happen to the returning children of God? Where else have you read or heard verses 1-2? What does this tell you about God?

2. According to verse 8, would does the prophet state God likes and dislikes? Is this new to this prophet? What promise does God make? How else will God restore the people (v. 9)? Has this happened? What promise is made that in verse 11 and how is it affirmed some 500 years later?

3. What does the psalmist remember and rejoice about in verses 1-2 of Psalm 126? What was restored for the people of Israel and Judah and explain what this might mean?

4. But what must have happened according to verse 4? What does verse 6 mean to you? What could it mean to go out weeping? And also, what does bearing seed for sowing mean? When bad things happen to you, do your actions reflect trust in God’s providence?

5. According to the passage from 1 Thessalonians, what is the will of God for us (vv.16-18)? If you did as Paul suggests, what kind of relationship would you have with God and therefore your neighbors and yourself? How do you quench the Spirit—what would be the opposite of verses 16-18?

6. What do the prophets tell us over and over again? If you cannot remember, reread Isaiah 61:1-2 and Micah 6:8. What does Paul call us to test and how do we make such test (vv. 21-22)? Who is always faithful—are you?

7. How does the passage from the Gospel of John affirm God’s faithfulness as celebrated in Isaiah 61? What was John the Baptist sowing?

8. How did John respond to the question of the priests and Levites from Jerusalem? Did he try to evade their questions? How did he answer? How was John planting seeds? Are you planting seeds—are you faithful to the one who is always faithful to you? How will you live out today what God wills for you?

Second Sunday of Advent, December 4, 2011

Isaiah 40:1-11;

Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13;

2 Peter 3:8-15a;

Mark 1:1-8

1. The passage from chapter 40 of Isaiah occurs when the people are in exile in Babylon and Isaiah brings them this message. What is the overall tone of this message? Why would such a message be appropriate? In verse 3 the word wilderness is used—what definitions might be applied to wilderness? What is the promise for people in the wilderness?

2. Isaiah is called to cry out in verse 6—what is to be his message? Who is in control according to Isaiah in these verses and why? Who are the people called to trust? Are you in a wilderness? Are you willing to follow the way of the Lord or do you think you are in control?

3. The message from Isaiah seems to be repeated in Psalm 85. What might verses 1-2 recall that God did for the people of Israel? What is the psalmist calling the people to do in the first few words of verse 8? What does the psalmist say is available to the people who listen and follow God?

4. Reread verses 10-13. What are the consequences of love and faithfulness (v. 10b)? What are we called to do in verse 11a and what does the psalmist say is God’s response in 11b? If you maintain a right relationship with God, what can you expect in your life?

5. The second letter of Peter was probably not written by Peter but by someone who followed Peter and who was defending Peter’s message. Peter’s last days were in Rome and his message that Jesus would soon return was proving not to be as Peter expected. So, the author of this letter presents what logic in verses 8-9? Why would God want to give people more time? Does the author state when Christ would return (v. 10b)?

6. What sort of persons are we called to be (v. 11-12)? Verse 12 seems to say heaven will be destroyed. What happens when a person gives her or his life to Christ in regard to living and dying? What would happen if everyone in the world truly gave their lives to Christ? Is Christ coming into your life regularly? How often do you call on Christ to come into your life?

7. How does Mark begin his testament? Why do you think Mark would begin in such a manner? Was John the baptizer a road builder? So, what path was John building? Where was John carrying out his task (v. 4)? What special clothes and paraphernalia did John use?

8. What were the people seeking from John? What did they feel compelled to do (v. 5)? What did John do for people that symbolized their reconnection to God? What are you seeking—is there something missing in your life? Do you feel as if you are living in a wilderness? Do you really want to be healed?

First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011

Isaiah 64:1-9;

Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19;

1 Corinthians 1:3-9;

Mark 13:24-37

1. The passage from chapter 64 of Isaiah occurs when the people have returned from Babylon to Judah. What is being requested from God in verses 1-3 of Chapter 64? What makes you think people thought there were still other gods (v. 2)? Reread verse 4 and ask yourself whether you identify with this lament? Are you willing to wait on God when you think you are alone?

2. Yet, Isaiah says God will meet us (v. 5)--when? Does Isaiah reflect on how the people have strayed from God (vv. 6-7)? Can you identify with verses 6-7—have you ever taken God for granted? Yet, who remains faithful (v. 8)?

3. What is the psalmist requesting for the people of Israel? What form of restoration do you think he might be contemplating?

4. Reread verses 17-18? Does it appear that the psalmist is bargaining with God? Have you ever bargained with God? Has God ever failed you? Have you ever failed God by not living up to your side of the bargain?

5. Who offers us grace? What is grace? What are the different forms of grace according to John Wesley?

6. What can happen when a person accepts grace? Do you think grace is a one time event? Can you ignore grace? When was the last time you denied Christ?

7. Jesus has told the disciples about the destruction of the Temple and the hardships they will incur for following him. But Jesus provides words of hope about what? What will happen before the generation listening to Jesus dies?

8. How does Jesus instruct the disciples to prepare? Instead, what do they want to know—when. And when does Jesus say the event will occur? What choice do we have? Are you awake—do you know where your life is leading?

Reign of Christ, Sunday, November 20, 2011

Ezekiel 34:1-16, 20-24;

Psalm 100;

Ephesians1:15-23;

Matthew 25:31-46

1. Who were the shepherds referred to in verses 1-10 of Ezekiel 34? Fast-forward to today and who would be the shepherds? How are the shepherds of today doing?

2. Where is the Good News in the passage from Ezekiel? Who is the true shepherd in this passage? Who is the true shepherd for you today? What are you doing to assist the shepherd?

3. What is the psalmist calling the people to celebrate joyfully (v. 3)? How do you make a joyful noise to God? What does it mean to “enter his gates” (v. 4)?

4. What attributes are given to God (v. 5)? Do you agree with these descriptions—why or why not? Ask yourself whether your relationship with God could be described as “steadfast love” and faithfulness forever”? How are you doing in that regard?

5. Why does Paul give thanks for the church at Ephesus (vv 15-16)? Do you think Paul might have the same prayer for us today? What is Paul’s prayer in verse 17? What does verse 17 mean—spirit of wisdom and revelation?

6. What does Paul say will result if his prayer is answered (v. 18)? DO you have eyes in your heart—so what does this phrase mean? What hope is Paul talking about? And what riches do you expect to inherit if Paul’s prayer is fulfilled? What kind of power do you think Paul is talking about in verses 19-20? How is Paul’s prayer different from your regular prayers?

7. What is a parable? What are the two groups into which all people will be separated in this parable? Who are the sheep and what actions do they take? What kind of food and drink might Jesus be referring in verse 35? And what might Jesus mean by clothing the naked and visiting those in prison?

8. Who are you in the parable? Look at this parable in a different light—what if you refuse the offer of spiritual food and drink from Christ? What do you think might be the consequences for you? Reread verse 41—does the parable say the King will force the people into eternal fire or does it mean by refusing the love of God a person will live in eternal fire? Again, who are you in this parable?

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, October 30, 2011

Joshua 3:7-17;

Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37;

1 Thessalonians 2:9-13;

Matthew 23:1-12

1. Who is Joshua and what promise does God have for Joshua (v. 7)? What is the significance of this promise for the people of Israel? What command does God give Joshua in verse 8?

2. What does Joshua say about God in verse 10? Who else prior to Joshua said a similar statement? What occurs next that reflects the flight out of Egypt. How long had it take the people of Israel to get to the Promised Land? What had the people of Israel been learning during this period of time?

3. Why does the psalmist say people should give thanks to God (v. 1)? Who might the psalmist b refer to as the redeemed in verses 2-3? What does redeem mean? Of what do verses 33-37 remind you especially for the Israelites?

4. Are you in need of redemption? Are you in a prison? Are you hungry and thirsty so that your soul is fainting? Who are you going to cry out to? Do you want to be saved?

5. What does Paul ask the Thessalonian church to remember (v. 9)? How does Paul describe his conduct among these people (v. 10)? Why do you think Paul found it necessary to bring this message? Do you think some people might be rejecting Paul’s message?

6. Why would someone reject the word of God when someone shares it with them? What can God’s word do to any of us if we listen and follow it? Are you?

7. What advice does Jesus give to the crowds and his disciples (v. 3)? According to Jesus, what do the Pharisees expect for their actions? Does Jesus’ advice still hold true today? Do you ever fail to follow your own advice to others? What does that make you?

8. As a believer in Jesus Christ, what are you called to do? In the passage you will find the word teacher and instructor used. The better translation from the Greek is “Master” or guide. How does that change your reading of this passage? As a believer in Jesus Christ, what do you expect for carrying out what Christ has called you to do (v. 12)?

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 23, 2011

Deuteronomy 34:1-12;

Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17;

1 Thessalonians 2:1-8;

Matthew 22:34-46

1. Before Moses died, what does the passage from Deuteronomy say God did for Moses? Where did Moses die and how old was he?

2. Did Moses make it to the Promised Land? Why or why not? Did Jesus promise to take us to a Promised Land? Where did Jesus promise to take us? Do you want to go there? What is holding you back?

3. To whom is this Psalm attributed? Does the Psalm reflect the faithfulness of God? If so, what verses? To what is humanity compared in verses3, 5-6?

4. What does the Psalmist request in verse 13? Why do you think this request could have been a prayer from Moses? Who or what do you blame when events do not occur as you would have them? Are you being punished by God, are you suffering the consequences of your own poor decisions, or what you wanted was not within your control?

5. What does Paul describe in the reading from 1 Thessalonians 2? What do you think motivated Paul and his disciples to act as they did among the Thessalonians??

6. What is your relationship with God—one of fear, duty, love, obedience? What do you learn from how Paul related to the Thessalonians (vv. 3, 5-8)?

7. According to Jesus, what is the greatest and first commandment? What does this mean in your life? Do you believe this commandment? Do you think you live out this commandment? What evidence is there that you fulfill the first commandment?

8. What does Jesus say in this passage is the second great commandment? What about all the other commandments given to Moses and other prophets? How did Jesus eventually change the second commandment among his disciples and followers? Do you follow this second commandment, especially as changed by Jesus? Can you fulfill the first commandment without fulfilling the second commandment? Why or why not?

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 16, 2011

Exodus 33:12-23;

Psalm 99;

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10;

Matthew 22:15-22

1. God has previously told Moses in Chapter 33 to get the people moving out of Sinai toward the Promised Land. In verse 12, Moses questions God repeating what God has already told him and asking a question. What is the question? And again in verse 13 Moses makes another request of God—what is that request? How does God respond in verse 14? What does Moses continue saying to justify his request (v. 16)?

2. What else does Moses request from God (v. 18) and how does God respond (v. 19)? How often do you ask God to accompany you on any journey or action, whether the journey be easy or difficult? Does God make it clear to Moses that God will do what God wants to do (v. 19b)? Do you try to make God do what you want? Do you listen to God so that you may be led into God’s presence and as directed by God? What are the consequences of not listening and being led by God?

3. What form of Psalm is this—one of praise, petition, justice, or something else? How do you describe God to yourself and others?

4. What three persons are named in the Psalm who had a relationship with God? What did all three do in relation to God (v. 6b)? How often do you call on God for direction? Do you take the time to listen to God’s answer? If you do not hear an immediate answer, what guidance has God already given us for discernment?

5. How does Paul describe the early believers in Thessalonia—three phrases (v. 3)? Where is Thessalonia? To whom does Paul give credit for such power of change?

6. Previously, what had the followers in Thessalonia worshipped (v. 9)? Why was this change so significant in Paul’s ministry? How would Paul describe your relationship with Jesus Christ? How would your relationship with Christ influence other people?

7. Who is trying to entrap Jesus (v.15) and why? What truth do the disciples of the Pharisees state (v. 16b)? How does Jesus answer the challenge?

8. We do not have an emperor in the United States, so what would be Jesus’ direction today about giving to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s? What are we called to give to God today just as in the time of Jesus? Who are you serving by your actions?

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 9, 2011

Exodus 32:1-14

Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23

Philippians 4:1-19

Matthew 22:1-14

1. Where is Moses when we begin to read Exodus 32? Previously, had the people of Israel seen miracles performed by God individually and through Moses? So were the people of Israel demonstrating patience? Why or why not? What did Aaron tell the people to do and where did the people get the raw product to begin with? What did Aaron shape for the people and why do you think he did so? And how did the people react to what Aaron made?

2. How did God react? How does God refer to the people of Israel (v. 7)? What do we do sometimes when we have too much freedom? What was the first commandment given by God? How does God refer to the people of Israel in verse 9—what does it mean? What does God intend to do to the people? How does Moses refer to the people of Israel in verse 11? Of what does Moses remind God? Is God capable of changing God’s mind?

3. What form of Psalm is this? For what does the psalmist give thanks in verse 1b? Do you give thanks and praise when someone forgives you for a wrong you have committed? Why do you think the psalmist might want to be remembered by God (v. 4)? Are there times when you wished God would not remember what you have done? Do you still want God to save you?

4. In verses 19-23, what does the psalmist recount? Who does the psalmist refer to who have forgotten God? Do you ever forget God—are you sure? Do all of your actions indicate you are in a right relationship with God? Why would our actions not always be in a right relationship with God? Did God give up on the people of Israel? Do you think God has or will give up on you? Have you given up on God?

5. What is an exhortation? What does Paul wish for Euodia and Syntyche, and how did they know Paul? What does Paul call the church in Philippi to do (v. 4-5)? How are the people to make their request made known to God? What do you think the church might have requested from God? What surpasses all understanding according to Paul (v. 7)? Does faith always require proof and understanding?

6. What does Paul call the people to contemplate (v. 8)? What is Paul referring to in verse 8? Is contemplation alone enough (v. 9)? For what does Paul give thanks for the church in Philippi? What secret has Paul learned (v. 12)? What do you think Paul means in verse 13? What might be necessary?

7. In this passage from Matthew, to what is the kingdom of heaven compared? What are weddings all about? Who might be the groom in this parable and the bride? Who might be the people who were invited but who were not worthy? So, who was invited and from where and who might they be?

8. What might a wedding robe symbolize? If it symbolizes new life, what might be the meaning of not wearing the robe at the wedding? Are clothes important in the worship of God? Will fine clothes bring you closer to God? Verse 14 serves as a warning? Who is called and who does the selecting? What do you do with your freedom, your free will? What god are your worshipping?

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 2, 2011

Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20

Psalm 19

Philippians 3:4b-14

Matthew 21:33-46

1. Verses 1-4 and 7-9 of Exodus 20 address what relationship for each of us to consider? What gods do you have before God—food, power, money, sex, family, ego, position, alcohol, etc? What have you made an idol that your actions show you worship? Besides cussing, how do you misuse the name of God—do you use God’s name as a weapon against others or to satisfy your own desires? Do you only remember God on the Sabbath?

2. Verses 12-17 describe what relationships for us to consider? If you violate any of these directions, what happens to the relationships? Why would a person violate any of these directions given us by God? If you violate these directions, what might be the consequences for you? Why do you think God provided us these directions?

3. According to the psalmist, how do we come to realize the actions of God? How do you understand the word heavens as used in this Psalm? One way to describe God is by what God has created? How would you describe yourself based on your actions?

4. What does the psalmist say is perfect (vv. 7-8)? Why would following these rules be desired (vv. 10-11)? What concern does the psalmist raise for which the psalmist requests help from God (v. 13)? How about you?

5. What does Paul mean that he could have confidence in the flesh (vv.5-6)? What are some of the examples in your life where you display more confidence in your flesh than anything else? For what does Paul give thanks that he has been able to give up?

6. Of all things, what does Paul want to know (v. 10a)? Who does Paul want to imitate and therefore obtain? Will this require Paul to suffer? What do you what to attain—power, wealth, respect, a right relationship with God? What is required of you to attain this goal—what has to die and how long will it take for you?

7. In this parable from Matthew, what are the vineyard and the watchtower? Who are the tenants? Who are the slaves sent at harvest time? Who is the master’s son? How did the chief priests and Pharisees who heard this parable react?

8. Who are you in this parable? Are you producing fruits of the kingdom of God? How would you describe these fruits? Do you want to produce fruits of the kingdom of God, and if so, what is required of you?

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 25, 2011

Exodus 17:1-7

Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16

Philippians 2:1-13

Matthew 21:23-32

1. What was the whole congregation of the Israelites complaining about this time? Was their complaint valid—did they really need what they didn’t have? How did Moses react—did he show faith in God? What do you think Moses and the people of Israel should have learned from this episode in their lives with God?

2. What are you thirsting for in your life? Is it really something you need or are you being manipulated by culture? When have you learned to trust God? Have you ever felt God has abandoned you permanently?

3. What is the psalmist going to do for the listeners (v. 1)? In verse 2, some translations say the psalmist will utter dark sayings. Verse 2 also says the psalmist will speak in a parable. In verse 2, the psalmist is talking about mysterious and hidden meanings. Where had this information come from (v. 3)? And what are the people to do about this information?

4. So, what does the psalmist reveal in verses 12-16? Why do you think the psalmist needed to repeat these stories of old? Do we repeat stories of old in our lives? Are there still mysteries within the Old and New Testaments that a simple reading will not reveal? How are you to learn of these mysteries?

5. According to Paul, how are we to treat one another (v. 3)? How are we to look after the interests of others? Who is our example? How are we to respond (v. 5)? When was the last time someone treated you as you would expect Christ to treat you?

6. When was the last time you treated someone as Christ treats us? How are you to work out your salvation? What exactly does this mean? Are we to take the grace and love of Christ seriously or just take it for granted? How would someone know you are taking your salvation seriously?

7. Who was challenging the teachings of Jesus (v. 23)? Why do you think they were questioning Jesus? Where did Jesus receive his authority? How does Jesus go about replying to those who challenged him? Does this story mean that anyone who believes she or he has heard the call of God should become a preacher, teacher, healer, etc without any study or training?

8. Which of the two sons are you in verses 28-30? So, is it enough to say out loud that Jesus is your Lord and Savior? What else is required? Do you see any current examples of politicians saying they will follow Jesus but whose actions reflect otherwise?

Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 18, 2011

Exodus 16:2-15

Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45

Philippians 1:21-30

Matthew 20:1-16

1. What were the Israelites complaining about and against whom were they complaining? What was God going to provide in the morning? How much were the Israelites to gather each morning except for the sixth day? How much was to be collected on the sixth day and why? What was to cover the camp in the evening?

2. How often do you complain about what is happening in your life? Do you think your complaining could be against God in reality? Do you have a tendency to blame others when you don’t have what you want? Do you want more than enough?

3. The beginning verses (1-6) of Psalm 105 call on the people to do what? How are people to respond (v. 2)? What are people to seek continually and why would this be important? What do you seek continually and how would anyone know that from your actions?

4. What do verses 37-45 of Psalm 105 recall? What did God give the Israelites (v. 44) and why (v. 45)? When do you recall what God has done for you? How do you respond in regard to what God has done for you and how would anyone else know this about you?

5. What dilemma is Paul wrestling with in verses 21-23 of Philippians? What would fruitful living entail for Paul and for you? What does Paul decide is more important and why (vv. 24-25)?

6. How does Paul encourage the Philippians to live their lives (v. 27)? Are you living your life to be worthy of the Good News? Why or why not? Who or what is your opponent that limits your life in Christ? What two privileges does Paul say we have been granted?

7. Why were there still laborers in the market at five o’clock? Has this ever happened to you? Who gets paid the most in the kingdom of heaven? After reading the parable in Matthew 20:1-16, do you think it is fair? Is the kingdom of heaven about fairness? How would you want to construct the kingdom of heaven? Do you want more than enough?

8. Could this parable also reflect our journey to Christ? Do you get upset when others who have not been believers decide to follow Christ and change their lives accordingly? Do we earn our way into grace? Should we not celebrate when someone truly is born again?

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 11, 2011

Exodus 14:19-31

Exodus15:1b-11, 20-21

Romans 14:1-12

Matthew 18:21-35

1. According to the passage from Exodus, how did God protect the people of Israel as they made ready to across the Red Sea (vv.19-20)? Did the Israelites have any trouble crossing the Red Sea? How about the Egyptians—what happened?

2. Does this story make you think of God as a loving God? Do we know what actually happened in the exodus? What do we know for sure? No matter what actually happened, why is this story so important—what did the people need to learn (vv. 31)? What do you need to learn? Do you need to be involved in a tragedy for you to know God and have faith in God?

3. How do the Israelites respond to being freed from the Egyptians? What has God become for them (v. 2)? From what had the people been saved? How else do they celebrate (.vv.20-21)?

4. How is God described (v. 3)? Why would this term be used? Is it possible for a people or a country to think God is just for them? What kind of Messiah did the Israelites think would return to free them from Rome? In the world today, do countries ever assume they are in a right relationship with God and therefore will persevere against other countries?

5. According to Paul, how were the members of the early church in Rome to welcome people who will still struggling with their faith in Jesus or for that matter, God? Why does Paul go into a discussion about food—what does that have to do with faith? What does Paul encourage his readers to do (v. 6)?

6. Do members of different denominations of Christianity need to hear Paul’s message? Do some portions of the Body of Christ pass judgment on other parts of the Body? Who created all of us? Do we attempt to say Jesus is only for those who are like us? How can you be in a right relationship with Christ if you are not in a right relationship with your brothers and sisters?

7. If a member of your community repeatedly lies and steals from you, how often are you to forgive that person according to Jesus? Does Jesus say that the person should not suffer the consequences of his/her actions? What is the purpose of forgiveness? If you keep track of how many times you have forgiven a person have you really forgiven that person?

8. Have you ever been forgiven? How did you react to that forgiveness? Are you harboring anger or resentment against someone today? How is that working for you? If you retain anger and resentment against someone, who has control over your life?

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, September 4, 2011

Exodus 12:1-14

Psalm 149

Romans 13:8-14

Matthew 18:15-20

1. Last week’s reading from Exodus had Moses living where and how did God call on Moses? How did Moses reply about going back to the people in Israel? In the reading from Chapter 12 today, where is Moses, and what does God command Moses and Aaron to tell the people?

2. Why do you think God simply did not free the Israelites? What did the Egyptians and the Israelites learn about God through this process? What festival is initiated to remember this action that God will take? Did Jesus remember this festival—why? Is it still remembered? And what does Jesus tell us to remember?

3. What are the people called to celebrate by the psalmist—look at Psalm 149 in its totality? When someone is in bondage and is freed by someone else what is the action called. Does the psalmist say God takes pleasure in God’s people (v. 4)? Who exults in glory according to the psalmist (v. 5)?

4. Why would the psalmist call people to celebrate God’s vengeance on enemies? What is a Psalm and why do we study them? Who is the center of every Psalm? What is the center of your life?

5. How are we to relate to one another—i.e., what is to be our relationship? How are we to fulfill the law according to Paul? What do verses 9-10 describe about relationships in Romans 13?

6. Why would Paul tell people to wake from sleep—what does this mean? Are you asleep—what are you missing? Why is salvation nearer than when people became believers? What do day and night symbolize? Are you living in the day or dark of night? Are you feeding your selfishness or are you filling your heart with Christ? What is the difference?

7. What are the verses in Matthew 18:15-20 all about? Why would Jesus need to even say such things? Of what does this remind you in Scripture (Deut. 19:15)? What steps are to be taken to deal with a transgression by one person against another?

8. Is there a warning in this passage? If two of us come together and agree we need to rob a bank, will God help us? Who will be with us to guide us away from our selfish desires if we will only listen? Will Jesus be with us even when we are alone? Why is the church important? Does everything the church members request come to pass—why or why not?

Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 28, 2011

Exodus 3:1-15

Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c

Romans 12:9-21

Matthew 16:21-28

1. What was Moses doing near the mountain of Horeb? How did God attract the attention of Moses? Why did God reach out to Moses? Why not to someone else? What do you think might have happened if Moses had not gone to investigate? Do you think God has ever sought a relationship with you but you ignored it?

2. How does Moses respond to God’s call on his life in verse 11? How does God respond in verse 12? Where else have we heard such a promise? What is the next problem Moses raises (v. 13)? Why would the people of Israel not know God’s name? And what name does God give God’s self?

3. What form of Psalm is 105? For what were the people of Israel called to give thanksgiving? Who or what do you seek continually—is it for selfish pleasure or otherwise?

4. In verses 23-26, what events are remembered by the psalmist? Why is such remembrance important to all who read this Psalm? Where have you been the alien in a strange place? Are you there now? Who or what are you going to turn to for help?

5. What are the different forms of love? How would you describe genuine love? Reread verse 12 of Romans 12. How would these actions help you? How many times in your life have you lived out verse 12?

6. Reread verse 13—what does it mean to you? Do you think this sentence is lived out in our society today? How about you—do you follow this suggestion from Paul? Do you ever have problem living out verse 18 or do you want to follow verse 19? How will you overcome evil?

7. What does Jesus begin to tell his disciples in the passage from Matthew? How does Peter react and why? What is the response from Jesus and why? Who is Jesus for you—someone to make you rich and powerful or someone to bring you into relationship with God and one another?

8. How is a person to become a follower of Jesus (v. 24)? What does it mean to take up your cross? What do you expect to receive for following Jesus Christ? If you say you are a follower of Christ, what does Jesus say is necessary (v. 27)? What payment do you expect for following Jesus?

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 21, 2011

Exodus 1:8-2:10

Psalm 124

Romans 12:1-8

Matthew 16:13-20

1. Who did not know Joseph, and of what did he have fear and why? Do you hear anything similar in today’s world? What did Pharaoh do to the people of Israel? What did Pharaoh order the midwives to do and why? Does anything seem strange in the order by Pharaoh? How did the midwives outwit Pharaoh? How did Pharaoh react?

2. From what tribe was Moses born? What is so ironic about the birth story of Moses?

3. What for m of Psalm is 124? For what were the people of Israel giving thanksgiving? How do you give thanks for be saved?

4. According to the psalmist, where are the people to look for help? Do the Jewish people remember what happened in Egypt? Why? What do we celebrate and remember that God did for us who call ourselves Christians?

5. In the Old Testament, what forms of sacrifice were made to God? Were these sacrifices always acceptable to God? What form of sacrifice does Paul cause us to make (v. 1)? How do we make such sacrifice? What is our challenge—to what are we tempted to be conformed—to act like? Instead, we are called to be transformed as what? Where are you?

6. If you have given your life to Christ, does that make you entitled to think of yourself better than people who have not? What about within the Body of Christ—is any member more important than the other? What is your function in the Body of Christ?

7. What is the first question Jesus asks the disciples? How do they answer? What is Jesus’ second question? How does Simon answer? How do you answer the second question and how did you come to that conclusion?

8. How does Jesus respond to Simon’s answer? And then what does Jesus tell Simon in verse 18? Who knows you better than anyone else including yourself? So, if you come to know Jesus as the One who loves you more than yourself, what else do you learn?

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost, August 14, 2011

Genesis 45:1-15

Psalm 133

Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32

Matthew 15:10-28

1. How did Joseph get to Egypt? What was Joseph’s position in this reading from Genesis? Was the journey for Joseph easy? How in this reading does Joseph relate to his brothers?

2. What has kept Joseph from being full of vengeance against his brothers (v.5)? How do you think Joseph came to understand what God was doing with him? Does Joseph claim that he is in control? When was the last time you sought vengeance instead of listening to God? How did that work for you? When something bad happens in your life, do you lose faith and try to take control or do you seek guidance from God—life or death?

3. Do you have blood family still? Do you have another form of family—friends, gang, or church? Do you always get along? Have we read in the past few weeks about families in disharmony? What do you think is the greatest harm for all this disharmony?

4. What is the second great commandment given by Jesus? Why is it so difficult to follow? How do you show love within your families?

5. Paul asks a question about his own race—what is it (v. 11:1)? How does Paul respond to the question in verse 2a? How does Paul reinforce his answer (11:29)?

6. Who is Paul writing to in the Book of Romans and who is he saying will receive mercy and salvation? How is God going to use the disobedience of the gentiles to bring salvation to the Israelites? Now, read Romans 11:11-12? Is God limiting his love?

7. In Matthew 15:1-9, the Pharisees and scribes challenged Jesus because he did not make the disciples wash their hands before they ate and accused Jesus of breaking a tradition of the elders. What does Jesus then explain to the disciples? Have you suffered because of statements spoken to you by someone you loved? Have you damaged someone with your words? What should you do?

8. Why did Jesus and the disciples not want to help the Canaanite woman? What have we learned over and over in the Old and New Testaments about God’s love? Why then do you think Jesus at first refused to help this woman? Do you ever feel the prejudices of other people against you just because you are a different race, gender, etc? Do you allow your prejudices to control how you treat other people? Do you seek vengeance?

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, August 7, 2011

Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28

Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b

Romans 10:5-15

Matthew 14:22-33

1. Who was Joseph helping in verse 2 of Genesis 37? What did Joseph do that may have made his brother’s mad at him. What was really the problem for Joseph’s brothers as revealed in verse 4? Where else have we read of conflicts in this family?

2. What does Jacob send Joseph to do in verse 14? Does Joseph act obediently to his father? When the brothers see Joseph on the way how do they refer to him (v. 19)? Why? Have you ever been in a crowd and the crowd gets excited about doing something wrong to someone? Who stepped in to help Joseph? What happened to Joseph? What would you have done if you were a brother of Joseph?

3. Why does the psalmist call the people to give thanks? Who will rejoice (v. 3)? What are the people to do (v. 4)? How would you go about fulfilling verse 4? What difference would it make in your life?

4. What story do verses 16-22 retell? What does the psalmist credit for keeping Joseph strong and faithful to God? Do you ever feel as God is working on you to make you the person God created you to be? When was the last time you denied God to serve your own selfish desires? Did those selfish desires make you a better person—were you happier in the long run?

5. How does Moses describe how a person is to be in a right relationship with God (v.5)? Is faith required according to the law? Have you ever heard Christian talk about who will go to heaven or to hell? What does Paul think about such conversation (vv.6-7)? What does Paul say is required for a person to attain salvation? What does Paul really mean by believe in your heart?

6. Is the saving grace of God limited to just certain people (v. 12)? Why then do you think many churches only want people just like them in attendance? Who has a responsibility to help others know of the salvation through Jesus Christ (v. 14)? How are we to proclaim the Good News? Ask yourself whether your life proclaims the Good News—is it?

7. After the 5,000 plus people had been fed, what did the disciples and Jesus do immediately? When you have participated in a miracle, what do you do afterward? How did the disciples respond initially when they saw Jesus walking near them? How do you think you would have responded?

8. Of the disciples, who showed bravery and faith? What caused Peter to begin sinking? What causes you to lose faith and begin to sink into your own sea of selfishness? How are we to remain strong in our faith?

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, July 10, 2011

Genesis 25:19-34

Psalm 119:105-112

Romans 8:1-11

Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

1. How old was Isaac when he married Rebecca? What problem had Rebecca encountered, and who did she consult for guidance? How old was Isaac when his two sons, Esau and Jacob were born? Why was it so important to Isaac to have sons? What were the names of these two boys and who do they represent according to verse 23?

2. Why did each parent love one son more than the other? Does this ever happen in real life—have you ever loved one child more than the other or have you felt loved or not loved as much as some of your siblings? What does Esau end up dong with his birthright and why is it such a big deal? How would you describe the two brothers based on this birthright story? Who are you as between these two siblings?

3. Based on these verses from Psalm 119, on what does the psalmist rely for guidance? How has the psalmist shown his commitment (v. 106)? Is life without problems for the psalmist (vv. 107, 110)? For what does the psalmist request from God?

4. Does the psalmist blame others for his problems or does he reflect that he is responsible for the consequences of his decisions (v. 109)? So, on what does the psalmist rely to keep himself from problems? On what do you rely to guide you in life? Do you take responsibility for the consequences of your actions or blame others? How’s it working for you?

5. According to Paul, what sets us free (v. 2)? Free from what? What did God do to set us free and to reconcile us to God and God to us (vv.3-4)? How does the Holy Spirit help us?

6. If God has set us free through Christ, what are we free to do—what are the two choices (v.5)? Which choice provides life and which choice provides death? What is your choice and how would anyone else know what you have chosen?

7. The reading from Matthew is a parable—what is a parable? What does it mean that a person is sowing seeds—what seeds? There are three examples of where the seeds land. What is the first example and what happens to the seed—did it bear much fruit—why or why not? And the second example, what happened to the seed—did it bear much fruit—why or why not? And the third example, what happened and why the difference from the other two examples?

8. What about you today—which of the examples illustrates your journey with Christ? Can a person be one who receives the seed as well as one who casts the seed? Explain? Does the sower take credit for the growth of the seeds or does the sower give up when nothing grows?

How about you?

Third Sunday after Pentecost, July 3, 2011

Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67

Psalm 45:10-17

Romans 7:15-25a

Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

1. We read in the passage how Isaac and Rebecca were united as husband and wife. Who were the parents of Isaac and why did they need a servant to go find a wife for Isaac? Where were the parents of Isaac living and where was the servant sent to find a wife for Isaac? What prayer did the servant recall that he said as he came to a spring (vv.42-44)? And what happened?

2. Was Rebecca forced to go with the servant (vv. 57-58)? What do you think Rebecca had been doing ever since the servant arrived? How often do you consult God before you make any decision, much less a major decision?

3. Psalms were often part of the liturgy of a worship service in the Temple. For what form of service might Psalm 45 been used? In verse 10, what is the bride advised to do? How is the bride to address her husband (v. 11)? Is that what brides are called to do today? Do people today do anything like verse 12?

4. What evidence from the Psalm do you find that it was a patriarchal society—a society where men had more prestige and power than women (vv. 11, 16)? Has anything changed in society in the Western world? Do you believe that men and women should have equal rights?

5. What does Paul say he does not understand in verse 15 of Romans 7? Do you ever find yourself in that very situation? Under what circumstances does Paul say the law is good (v. 16)? What does the law therefore tell him or us? What is Paul talking about in verse 18—did not God say that we were good? Are our bodies evil or is it our free will and how we use our bodies sometimes evil?

6. Sin is anything that separates you from God, yourself, and your neighbors. Sin is all about being self-centered. Do you ever do something you know injures your relationship with God, yourself, or your neighbor? Why do you do it? Does Paul say he suffered (v. 24)? How did Paul and how can we get through our suffering of letting go of being so self-centered (v. 25a)?

7. Verses 16-19 describe a generation of people who are faithless and always seeking to find fault with others. What two people are contrasted and how does the generation regard them? How are these two people to be vindicated—by their words alone or their deeds (v. 19)? Do your actions reveal wisdom or selfishness?

8. What does Jesus tell us in John 14:6—I am the way, the truth, and the life. Why would the wise and intelligent people have so much difficulty understanding the Good News? What invitation does Jesus offer to us (v. 28)? Is the invitation limited to a certain group of people? Are you carrying heavy burdens? Why not share them with Christ?

Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 26, 2011

Genesis 22:1-14

Psalm 13

Romans 6:12-23

Matthew 10:40-42

1. How does God supposedly test Abraham? Why did God select Isaac to be the sacrifice? Does the passage of Scripture indicate that Abraham ever questioned God in this passage? How is this verse interpreted subsequently by Paul? How does Abraham respond in verse 14—Jehovah Jireh?

2. How could this passage from Genesis be misunderstood? How do you know if God is speaking to you? What does God want you to give up that you have placed before God?

3. What has happened to the psalmist causing him to cry out to God (vv.1-3)? Have you ever felt this way? Do you really think God has abandoned the psalmist or you?

4. Does the psalmist give up? How does the psalmist end the Psalm (vv. 5-6)? When you feel that God is not with you, what can you do to remember God is with you? What did we read last week in Matthew 28:20?

5. How do you define sin? How does Paul define sin in Romans 6 (vv.12, 16)? Before the action of God through Christ, what was the only thing we could do according to Paul (vv. 17-19)?

6. In Christ we have freedom to do what? What is separating you from living a life where nothing separates you from God? What are the consequences of being separated from God (v.23)?

7. What relationships does Jesus Christ call us to maintain faithfully? Which relationship is described in Matthew 10:40-42? What is the reward for hospitality? What are the consequences if your actions are only to receive a reward?

8. How do you show hospitality? How do you think someone else would describe your hospitality? Why does God remain hospitable to us?

First Sunday after Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, June 19, 2011

Genesis 1:1-2:4

Psalm 8

2 Corinthians 13:11-13

Matthew 28:16-20

1. How is the passage from Genesis to be read and understood-literally or as a story? Out of what were the heavens and earth created (v. 2)? In verses 6-9, what are the waters? How does God refer to everything that God created? What or who does God bless in this story (vv. 1:22, 28, 2:3)? Who does God create in God’s image?

2. Who is God talking about in verse 26 when God says “Let us make humankind? What does God call humankind to do (v. 28)? What are birds, creeping things, and humankind to eat (v. 29-30)? Briefly compare Chapter 1-2:4, with Chapter 2:5-3? What do you notice that is different?

3. How is God described initially in Psalm 8? What could verse 2 mean—out of the mouth of babes? Compare verse 3a, and how does that differ from Genesis 1:14-19; and what about verse 4 and 1:27-28?

4. How is humankind described in Psalm 8 (vv.5-6)? How is humanity doing with this dominion? What did God not give humanity dominion over that humanity has been trying to do since the beginning? Over what do you exercise dominion? How is it working for you?

5. How does Paul describe how we are to exercise dominion as Christians (2 Cor 13:11)? How can we agree with one another when we are so different? In relationships with people do you focus on what makes you different or what makes you the same?

6. What is described in verse 13? What types of relationships are you to maintain if you accept verse 13?

7. Who does Jesus direct to go to a mountain (v. 16)? How did all of them react (v. 17)? Who are you on the mountain? Has Jesus spoken to you? Do you want Jesus to speak to you? What does Jesus direct these few people to do (v. 19)?

8. In whose name are people to be baptized? Why is this verse significant? What is the Trinity? Will the disciples or you ever be alone (v. 20)?

Pentecost Sunday, June 12, 2011

Acts 2:1-21

Psalm 104:24-34, 35b

1 Corinthians 12:3b-13

John 7:37-39

1. What physically happened on the day of Pentecost (vv. 2-3)? On whom did the tongues of fire rest? What were these people filled with (v. 3), and what did they begin to do (v. 4)? In what language or languages did the disciples begin to speak? How could they do that? Who heard the disciples and why were the listeners so perplexed?

2. What did some people suggest the disciples had been doing (v. 13)? How does Peter respond? What prophet does Peter recall? How could Peter an uneducated fisherman be able to remember and recite the words of the prophet? Reread verse 17 and answer what last days was the prophet alluding to? Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit, either by hearing the word of God or speaking the word of God?

3. What does the first line of verse 24 of Psalm 104 mean? How did God create them (24b)? Who looks to God to give them food in due season? How do you feel when someone who has helped you is not available (v. 29)? Have you ever left someone who depended on you?

4. Despite what we think, without God what is our future (v. 29)? What Scripture passages does verse 30 remind you? Who do you give thanks to for your life? How often?

5. Who or what enables us to understand who is Jesus? Did the disciples understand who Jesus was until Pentecost? When do we begin to understand who Jesus is in our lives?

6. What does the Holy Spirit provide the believers and followers of Christ? Does each person receive the same spiritual gift? Why or why not (7)? What are the gifts listed in the passage from 1 Corinthians? Do we always use these gifts in the service of others? Who is wounded when we are selfish in the use of our gifts or envious of the gifts of others? Who is entitled to be baptized into the Body of Christ?

7. What does Jesus mean when he says: “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and let the one who believes in me drink”? What rivers of water are to flow from believers and why had it not begun (vv.38-39)?

8. For what are you searching? Is there nothing that satisfies you? What flows out of your heart towards other people? Do you live to serve or to be served?

Ascension Sunday, June 5, 2011

Acts 1:1-11

Psalm 47

Ephesians 1:15-23

Luke 24:44-53

1. To whom is the Book of Acts written and what does this imply? What was the first book and what was its subject matter? What then do you conclude might be the subject matter of the Book of Acts? During the forty days after his resurrection, what did Jesus do and particularly what was Jesus speaking about (v. 3)? What did Jesus promise to the apostles that he had already told them (vv. 4-5)?

2. What makes you conclude that the soon-to-be apostles did not truly understand the resurrection of Jesus Christ (v.6)? Instead how does Jesus reply (vv. 7-8)? What are the apostles to receive and what are they to do with what they receive (v. 8)? What does the lifting up of Jesus Christ symbolize? What is the promise of the two angels? When was the last time you encountered Christ?

3. Who does the psalmist credit being king over all the earth (v. 2)? What did this king do to gain this title (vv. 3-4)? Did the people of Israel always think in these terms?

4. Where does verse r imply God has gone? Why does the psalmist say the people should give praises (vv. 6-7)? What is nationalism? How can nationalism be misused? How can the love of God and nationalism become confused?

5. For what does Paul give thanks and what does Paul do in response (vv.15-16)? For what does Paul pray for the Ephesians (v. 17)? What three discoveries does Paul desire the Ephesians and us to discover (vv.18-19)?

6. What does the writer want to make sure the Ephesians understood about the work of Jesus Christ—what did Jesus begin (v. 22)? Have you received power from Jesus Christ as Paul desired for the Ephesians? When? What do you do with this power? Is it to be used just for your benefit?

7. About what does Jesus remind the disciples (v. 44)? Do you think they understood? What did Jesus have to do to get the disciples to begin understanding who he was (v. 45)? How does Jesus describe himself and explain how the disciples and all followers are to react (vv. 46-47)? What were the disciples according to Jesus (v. 48)? And Jesus reminds the disciples of what in verse 49?

8. What happens to Jesus as we read about in our reading from Acts? Did the disciples truly understand who Jesus was at this point-why or why not? Do you understand who Jesus was and is today? For what did Paul pray for the believers in Ephesus that we read? Ready?

Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 29, 2011

Acts 17:22-31

Psalm 66:8-20

1 Peter 3:13-22

John 14:15-21

1. In the passage from Acts, to whom is Paul speaking? Who have his listeners been worshipping? How does Paul distinguish between idols and God (vv.24-25)? How do you describe God?

2. According to Paul, what is God commanding all people everywhere to do (v. 30)? What judgment has God already passed on the world that we recently celebrated? How does God continue to judge us yet provide us grace through Jesus Christ?

3. Who does the psalmist blame for difficult times (vv. 10-12b)? Why is the psalmist praising and blessing God (12c)? How is the psalmist going to give thanks to God (vv.13-15)?

4. What else is the psalmist going to do because God has listened and heard his prayers (vv.16-17)? Why does the psalmist think God listened to him (v. 18)? Do you ever have negative thoughts as part of your prayers? How do those thoughts work for you? Do you think God ever removes his steadfast love for us? Why or why not?

5. Who will harm you if you are eager to do good? What is the difference between wanting to do good and doing good? How are you to defend yourself when challenged (v. 16)? Why would it be better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil?

6. Who could be spirits in prison who Jesus visits (v. 19)? Does the prison have to be a physical jail? Has Christ ever visited you in your prison? Why would Christ do that for you?

7. Do you love Jesus Christ? How does the world know that you love Jesus Christ (vv. 15, 21)? Who already abides with all of us (v. 17)? So, what does Jesus do to awaken us to the Holy Spirit within us?

8. What else does Jesus promise us (v. 18)? How do you experience Christ with you? How does your love of Christ manifest itself in your every-day life?

Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 22, 2011

Acts 7:54-60

Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16

1 Peter 2:2-10

John 14:1-14

1. Who was Stephen? What do you think Stephen did to cause people to be so upset with him? Who does Stephen rely on for his strength to face suffering and death? Who is Saul in this short story?

2. How did Stephen react to the action by the people who were stoning him? Who do you rely on in tough times? Does belief in Jesus Christ assure you that you will not suffer or die? How are we to treat people who mistreat us—do we forgive them in the name of Christ? Have you ever mistreated someone? Do you want to be forgiven?

3. The issue of being oppressed continues in Psalm 31? What reason does the psalmist give for God to intervene (vv. 3b, 5b)? Why would the psalmist say such words—what difference does it mean to God? To whom has the psalmist committed his spirit (v. 5a)? Does the psalmist believe he is in control of his life (v. 15)?

4. Where do you seek refuge in time of trouble? When was the last time you called out to God for help? Why did you call on God? Who is in control of your life? How is that control demonstrated—how does your life reveal God at work in you? Why should God help you, especially if you have not forgiven your enemies?

5. How are new believers in Christ referred to by Peter (v. 2)? What does Peter say we must grow into (v. 2)? Why would we want to do that (v. 3)? What does Peter say were are to be built into (v. 5)? What are spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ (v. 5)?

6. How much have you grown into salvation? Do you think you can ever be fully grown into salvation? What spiritual sacrifices do you demonstrate and for whose benefit? Why do you want to grow closer to Christ?

7. Why does Jesus tell his disciples not to be troubled (v. 1)? What does John mean in verse 2 about many dwelling places? Where can people go to be with Christ every day of their lives? Who do you encounter during Holy Communion? How does Jesus describe himself in verse 6? What does Jesus mean by the truth and life? Does your life reflect following Jesus in the way, truth, and life?

8. Who does Jesus say dwells within him and where does Jesus dwell (v. 10-11)? Why do you believe in Jesus Christ? How do you understand verse 14? What is the condition for fulfillment of the request (v. 13)?

Second Sunday of Easter, May 1, 2011

Acts 2:14a, 22-32

Psalm 16

1 Peter 1:3-9

John 20:19-31

1. Who does Peter address—what nationality? Why? What does Peter tell them in verses 22-24? How would Peter come to the conclusion that God had a definite plan of what would happen to Jesus? What does God know about us? What does God know about you that you will not admit to yourself?

2. How does Peter reinforce his statements about Jesus—who does Peter appeal to confirm the resurrection of Jesus (v.25-27)? How is Jesus shown to be superior to David? Who is always before you and makes known to you the ways of life? Do you follow these ways of life?

3. What is the psalmist seeking from God? What happens to the psalmist when he is separated from God (v.2)? How about you when you are separated from God? Compare verse 4 to verses 5 and 6 and explain the difference.

4. To whom do you give thanks regularly? Where do you seek counsel? What is always before you and how do you know? How would someone else know what is always before you? In what does your soul rejoice? Who has promised to be with you always? How do you stay on the right path?

5. What has the resurrection of Jesus given us (v.3)? Peter talks about the last time in verse 5—what do you think Peter thought was going to happen very soon (v.6)? What could be the last time for each of us—what has to happen if we are truly born again?

6. What is the outcome of faith in Jesus Christ and what does that outcome mean? Does this outcome make you better than other people? How would someone know you love Christ?

7. What were the first words Jesus said when he appeared to his disciples in verse 19? Why do you think Jesus says this not once but twice? How would you react if someone who you considered dead returned to a new life? How do you react when someone you have disliked in the past returns after truly being reborn again?

8. What does Jesus do to empower the disciples (v 22)? What happens in the ceremony of baptism? What happens without the ceremony of baptism if you give your life to God? Have you ever been Thomas? How did Jesus convince you to follow him?

Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011

Acts 10:34-43

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

Colossians 3:1-4

John 20:1-18

1. Is the love of God limited just to the pious, the poor, and the powerless? Is God’s love available to the wealthy, the politicians, and elite? Who is acceptable to God according to Peter? How is fear to be understood, and what about doing what is right?

2. How would you summarize the actions of God to reconcile us through Jesus Christ? Verses 37-43 are a fair summary of the ministry of Jesus and the action of God. For you, what, if anything, is missing in this summary by Peter?

3. For what does the psalmist give thanks in verses 1 and 2? Yet, who does the psalmist indirectly accuse of causing his problems (v. 18)? Since this psalm was written anywhere from 500 to 1,000 years before the birth of Christ, who could the psalmist be talking about in verse 22?

4. What challenge had the psalmist faced (vv. 10-12)? How do you think the psalmist imagined God in regard to salvation? How is the psalmist vision of salvation different from that of ours in Jesus Christ? What is the difference between getting what you want verses being freed from what the world tells you should have or be?

5. Have you been raised with Christ? When, explain how? Are these verses in Colossians to be read literally? What is your mind set on—what do you think about?

6. How would someone know if you have died and been raised? How would you define your life—what is the center of your life? Are you being truthful to yourself?

7. Do you remember who were some of the last people to see Jesus alive and then watched him die? And who according to the Gospel of John was the first to see Jesus raised from the dead? What conclusions, if any, do you draw from this?

8. The disciples had been with Jesus for a few years during his ministry. What did they not fully understand (v. 9)? What eventually happened to the disciples that allowed them to understand the scriptures—what scriptures? What about you, do you think you know everything about the scriptures?

Palm /Passion Sunday, April 17, 2011

Matthew 21:1-11 (Palm Liturgy)

Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 (Palm Liturgy)

Isaiah 50:4-9a (Passion Liturgy)

Matthew 26:14-27:66 (Passion Liturgy)

1. How did the disciples react when Jesus told them to go into the village and return with a donkey and a colt? Why did Jesus send for the donkey and colt (v.4, see Zech 9:9)?

2. What happened when Jesus began to enter Jerusalem (v 8)? How did they know about Jesus? Did everybody know who was Jesus? What description was Jesus given? How do you welcome Jesus into your daily life? Does Jesus ever tell you what you should be doing? If you say no, why? Do you act as Jesus has told you?

3. Psalm 118 begins and ends with what theme? How do you understand verses 19-20—what did they mean initially to the psalmist and what could they mean to us today? In verses 21-24, what admission does the psalmist make that we often fail to make today?

4. Of what do verses 26-27 remind you? Can you see how the psalm reinforces the passage from Matthew? What does the psalmist admit in verse 28? Who or what is your god or God? How do you begin and end the day?

5. The servant in the passage from Isaiah is in Babylon to encourage people of Israel and Judah to remain faithful to God. How is the servant sustained? What does the servant always do that we often do not do? What inference is made with the servant says he is not rebellious?

6. How is the servant treated by people around him (v. 6)? Does the servant show weakness or perseverance (vv.7-8)? On whom does the servant rely (v. 9a)? Who or what is contending with you seeking to pull you away from God? How do you respond—how have you responded? How would you define success?

7. Why do you think Judas agreed to betray Jesus? How do you betray Jesus? How do we betray Jesus? Do you want to repent?

8. Why do you think Jesus chose food and drink as symbols by which to remember him? What other symbols do you use in your day to day life to remember Christ and how Christ called us to live? When have you deserted Christ as did Peter and the other disciples? How do you begin and end you day?

Fifth Sunday of Lent, April 10, 2011

Ezekiel 37:1-14

Psalm 130

Romans 8:6-11

John 11:1-45

1. Ezekiel was a priest and prophet during the period when Jerusalem fell to Nebuchadnezzar and the people of Judah were killed, fled to other countries, or were taken captive to Babylon. Who is God commanding Ezekiel to prophesy to and why? What do the dry bones symbolize; and the breath? What about opening of graves—what does that mean?

2. What is God promising in verse 12? Why would this be important to the people to hear? Again, why is God taking this action according to this Book? Do you see any parallels with society today? Are you a dry bone? Do you want the breath of God to bring you back to true life?

3. What were the people in exile waiting for? From where is the psalmist crying to God (v.1)? Have you ever been there? Does the psalmist believe he deserves to be helped by God (v. 3)? How about you when you have been in the depths of despair?

4. So, what is a person to do besides crying out to God (vv.5-6)? Why is this so difficult for us to do? Why does the psalmist think God will intervene (v. 7)? In what do you place your hope?

5. The passage from Romans is written to people who have come to believe in Christ. What options does Paul discuss in verse 8:6? How else can you describe the options Paul discusses? In other words, if your mind is focused on the fleshly desires, on what are you centered? But if focused on the Spirit, on what are you centered?

6. How do you go about determining on what are you centered? Is it possible for a believer in Christ still to be focused at least in part on the flesh? How does a person move from life in the flesh to life in the Spirit?

7. What was the relationship among, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and Jesus? What had happened to Lazarus (v.2) and why did Jesus wait to go see Lazarus (v.4)? Why did the disciples challenge Jesus about going to see Lazarus in Judah? Based on the reading of last week regarding the blind man, how does Jesus respond to the challenge by the disciples (vv.9-10)?

8. Martha and Mary both challenge Jesus for having not arrived earlier. How does Jesus respond to Martha? Is Jesus talking just about a physical resurrection (v.25-26)? Twice it is reported that Jesus was greatly disturbed (vv. 33, 38)—why? When Lazarus comes out of the tomb, how is he described? How are you bound up so that you cannot live anew? Do you want new life in Christ? Can you handle that kind of freedom?

Fourth Sunday of Lent, April 3, 2011

1 Samuel 16:1-13

Psalm 23

Ephesians 5:8-14

John 9:1-41

1. Who was Samuel and why was he grieving? What did God tell Samuel to do in 16:1, and how did Samuel respond? What does God tell Samuel to do in the second part of 16:2? Does God’s supposed instruction bother you, and if so, why?

2. What is God sending Samuel to do? What does Samuel always do even when he thinks he knows what is the right thing to do (v. 6, 8, 12)? Does the appearance of a person always reveal the true nature of a person or the gifts of that person? What does God see in us (v.7)?

3. How often do you go after something or somebody and when you get what you are looking for there is no satisfaction? Do you ever feel like God makes you lie down—take a break? Why would God do such a thing (3a)?

4. What has been your darkest valley? How did you make it through; we you always afraid or was there someone with you that you could not see? Where do you think you will find goodness and mercy? Where does your heart live?

5. What could darkness be a metaphor for in the passage from Ephesians? How about light? What could be fruits of the light and fruits of the darkness?

6. How can we move from the darkness to the light? Where are you living today—right now? How can a person remain in the light?

7. What did the disciples believe that caused them to ask the question in John 9:2? How does Jesus answer and how do you understand the answer by Jesus (vv. 3-5)?

8. How does the man who was once blind respond to the Pharisees (vv. 15, 17, 25, 27, 30-33)? What changes do you see in the man besides receiving his sight? Where do you think he gained such knowledge? Can your eyes work yet you still be blind? Are you blind to Christ in your life? Do you want to really see the light of Christ?

Fifth Sunday of Lent, April 10, 2011

Ezekiel 37:1-14

Psalm 130

Romans 8:6-11

John 11:1-45

Third Sunday of Lent, March 27, 2011

Exodus 17:1-7

Psalm 95

Romans 5:1-11

John 4:5-42

1. Where was the congregation of Israel located in the verses from Exodus? Where had they been previously? Were the people of Israel content—why or why not? What were they doing, and what was the response from Moses? What did God instruct Moses to do and what happened? What name did Moses give to this place? What is the importance of water in your life?

2. Who gave the Israelites the power to defeat the Amalekites? As a teenager, did you ever test your parents, caregiver, or teacher? Why? Do you ever ask God for something and do not receive what you want right away or ever? So, what do you do? Do you ever thirst for something only to find out when you finally drink it that there is no satisfaction or at least not what you thought?

3. The psalmist continues the theme from what we read in Exodus. How do we discern this conclusion (vv.8-10)? What is the psalmist calling the people to do in worship?

4. Who or what is in control of your life—a boss, lover, gang leader, alcohol? What do you worship? How would another person know what you worship? Does God give up on us when we quarrel and test God and one another?

5. What words are the opposite of quarrel or war? What do you prefer-a quarrel or the opposite? What does God offer us through Christ (Romans 5:1-2)? Do you want a right relationship with God? What does water symbolize in regard to gaining a right relationship with God?

6. How do you learn best—by always being correct or by correcting mistakes? Do you give up trying when you fail at something or do you endure? Who is always with you? If you have a right relationship with God, what do you let go of and instead are filled with? How do you know God loves you?

7. Who did Jesus meet at the well in the city of Sychar, which means drunkenness? What did Jesus request of this person and what did Jesus offer in return? The woman argues about where to worship, but Jesus responds how about worship (vv.22-24)? What does the woman hear about the Messiah (v. 26)?

8. How does the woman respond to this personal encounter with God through Jesus Christ? What does she do and what are the consequences (v. 29, 30, 39)? When was the last time you invited someone to Come and See Christ? What feeds your soul—making yourself feel good or being obedient in love to Christ?

Fourth Sunday of Lent, April 3, 2011

1 Samuel 16:1-137

Psalm 23

Ephesians 5:8-14

John 9:1-41

Second Sunday of Lent, March 20, 2011

Genesis 12:1-4a

Psalm 121

Romans 4:1-5, 13-17

John 3:1-17

1. From where did God tell Abram to depart? Did God say where Abram was to go? What did Abram request from God? What did God promise Abram?

2. Who does God say God will bless and curse? How old was Abram when he departed his homeland? Why do you think Abram agreed to do as God asked? What would it take for you to follow God based just on promises?

3. Do you think the psalmist has trust in God? What evidence does the psalmist give inin Psalm 121 to support his trust? What are other words that be used to describe trust?

4. Who do you trust and why? Do you trust God—why or why not? Do you trust yourself—why or why not? Have you ever made any bad decisions? Have you ever let yourself down? Who never gives up on you?

5. According to Paul, how was Abraham made right with God—by the law? What did Abram do and how did the psalmist relate to God? How did all of them earn their rewards?

6. Why does Paul say the law will bring wrath—are we not to follow the law? What does God offer us through Christ that the law can never offer us? Why is it difficult to accept a free gift, especially one you think you cannot see? Can you tell the difference in your life between before you accepted God’s grace and after?

7. Who was Nicodemus and why did he believe Jesus came from God? What was Jesus answer about seeing the kingdom of God (John 3:3)? And then what does Jesus tell Nicodemus in verse 5? Does Jesus say you have to die a physical death? What symbol do we use today in Christianity to demonstrate what Jesus was saying in verse 5?

8. Why did Jesus talk about Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness? What happened to all who looked upon the action of Moses? And what does Jesus say about gaining eternal life? Why did God send Jesus into the world? What keeps you from living a life that reflects your faith in God through Jesus?

Ninth Sunday after Epiphany, March 6, 2011, Transfiguration Sunday

Exodus 24:12-18

Psalm 99

2 Peter 1:16-21

Matthew 17:1-9

Transfiguration: A marked change in form or appearance; a metamorphosis; a change that glorifies or exalts.

1. What does the passage from Exodus state was the purpose of Moses going up on the mountain (v.12)? How did Moses prepare for the journey—did he keep it a secret (vv. 13-14)?

2. Once Moses made up Mount Sinai, what happened (v. 16)? How is God described (v. 17)? How do verses 16-17 reflect the definition of transfiguration? How long was Moses on the mountain? Do you think he was the same person when he returned? Do you think he might have been transfigured?

3. Who is the king in Psalm 99 and how is the king described (vv.1-5)? What description of this king is repeated twice? Who did this king use to help his people according to this psalm (v. 6)?

4. How is God described in verses 8-9? Have you ever had an encounter with God? If so, how do you describe God? Have you been called upon to serve God? Are you?

5. How does Peter describe himself (v. 16)? What had these apostles seen and heard? What does Peter leave out? What kind of message do Peter and the apostles have (v. 19)? What does the word prophesy mean?

6. How is a human able to bring a prophetic message—to prophesy (v. 21)? Verse 20 is often translated incorrectly and misunderstood. This verse is not to be understood that we cannot have different understandings of Scripture but instead that true Scripture and prophecy can only come from God. How might a person discern if a statement someone makes in the name of God is from God or from some evil source?

7. How is Jesus described in Matt 17:2? Who else did Peter see with Jesus? What is the significance of these two people? What do they represent—what did they present to the people of Israel on behalf of God?

8. How does Peter react to what he sees (v. 4)? Read Matt 17:5. What do these disciples hear? What action are the disciples to take based on verse 5? Why would this be so important? How would you describe what Jesus has to say to us today?

First Sunday of Lent, March 13, 2011

Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

Psalm 32

Romans 5:12-19

Matthew 4:1-11

Eighth Sunday after Epiphany, February 27, 2011

Isaiah 49:8-16a

Psalm 131

1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Matthew 6:24-34

1. The reading from Isaiah is from second Isaiah? Where are the people of Israel and Judah to whom Isaiah is prophesying? What does Isaiah say that God has promised to these people?

2. How have many of the people of Israel and Judah reacted to their captivity as reflected in verses 14-15? Who has remained ever faithful? Are you living in exile today? What promise do you hear from God or have you given up?

3. How good are you about waiting for something you want? Why is it so difficult to wait? How do you think the people of Israel and Judah reacted to being held in captivity in Babylon?

4. What does it mean that Israel will be redeemed (v. 8)? Once you receive whatever you are waiting for, how do you respond? Are you forever satisfied? If you are redeemed, what do you do with your freedom—do you decide to go back into captivity?

5. Paul has in the previous chapter of 1 Corinthians addressed the divisions within this early church in Corinth where people were taking sides depending on who baptized them. What does Paul suggest to the Corinthians about how he, Apollos, and Peter are to be considered? Of what are they stewards or servants? Does that make them better than anyone else?

6. Do you consider yourself better than other people because of your relationship with Jesus Christ? Do you judge other religions? Who does the judging? Has God already judged the human race? How would you know?

7. What does it mean to serve two masters? Are we to read this passage from Matthew as directions for none of us to work for a living? What if no one did work and just sat around waiting for food and shelter to just appear? Will worrying about food and shelter cause you to obtain food and shelter?

8. Read Matthew 6:33. What are we to strive for first and what difference will it make for us? Does it mean we are not to use the gifts God has given us to provide food and shelter for ourselves and others? Why then do we worry so much?

Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, February 20, 2011

Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18

Psalm 119:33-40

1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23

Matthew 5:38-48

1. In Leviticus 19:2, God directs Moses to tell the people of Israel to be what? Why? How do you understand what it means to be holy?

2. In verses 9-18, holiness is defined in part. How would you summarize these guidelines of holiness? About what relationship are most of these guidelines? How many of these guidelines are you following?

3. What do you gather from verses 33-40 that the psalmist is seeking—to be what? In verses 33-39, how does each verse begin—noun, adjective, adverb, or verb? To be holy therefore, what is required in part?

4. How does God teach you how to live? How do you go about understanding what God wants you to do—are you so sure of yourself you do not need to consult anyone else? What is required by a person if she or he is to be led by God? What keeps you from being holy (v. 36)?

5. According to Paul, what is his foundation? How does Paul say he obtained this foundation? What is your foundation? How might you realize you are building on a false foundation? If you realize you have been building on a false foundation, what must be done?

6. How do you treat your body—do you take care of it or abuse it? Why? What does Paul call our human body? Paul talks about people being wise in this age and the wisdom of this world. What is Paul talking about? What does the world usually tell us is important? How do you go about seeking the wisdom of God?

7. What is the writer of Matthew talking about that we also talked about in our discussions about the reading from Leviticus? Is every word in the reading from Matthew to be read literally?

8. How do you treat people you do not know and who are different from you? Is violence the only way to remove an oppressor? What is happening in the Middle East today? What would Gandhi or Martin Luther King say about non-violence?

Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, February 13, 2011

Deuteronomy 30:15-20

Psalm 119:1-8

1 Corinthians 3:1-9

Matthew 5:21-37

1. How many decisions do you make on an average day? How do you go about making your average decision? Do you consult with anyone? What guidelines do you follow in making decisions? What choice is Moses giving the Israelites (30:15, 19)?

2. What guidelines does Moses provide us that we should follow for making decisions? What are the consequences if we follow these guidelines (v. 16)? But if we are selfish and ignore these guidelines, what will happen (v. 18)? Why do we ignore guidelines that bring us blessings?

3. Who does the psalmist say are happy and why? Who does the psalmist say we are to seek with all our heart? What exactly does this mean? How would you define doing no wrong?

4. How does a person go about learning God’s precepts, statutes, commandments, and ordinances? How do young children learn best—by words, pictures, or actions of the people who care for the? What are your actions teaching people around you?

5. Speaking of guidelines and following God’s commandments, what was taking place in the early church in Corinth that reflected its members were not following the guidelines and commandments? To what cause does Paul attribute the people of this early church from following the guidelines?

6. Has anyone ever asked you how many people you have saved? According to Paul, who provides the saving—the salvation? What then are we as followers of Christ to do to further the Kingdom of God according to Paul?

7. In Matthew, we find Jesus talking about guidelines also. What happens to our relationships to other people according to Jesus if we do not follow these guidelines? Are verses 29-30 to be read literally? If not, what do they mean?

8. How do you go about making decisions? Who do your decisions affect? How are your relationships with God and people around you?

Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, February 6, 2011

Isaiah 58:1-12

Psalm 112:1-10

1 Corinthians 2:1-16

Matthew 5:13-20

1. Isaiah 58 is written to the people of Israel and Judah who have returned to Israel and Judah—it is known as Third Isaiah. Does the prophet state the people are seeking a relationship with God (v. 2)? Yet, what are the people doing (vv.3-5)?

2. What instead does God require of the people to be in a right relationship with God (vv.6-7, 9b-10)? How can you be in relationship with God if you are not in a right relationship with your neighbor? If the people are obedient to God, what does God promise (vv. 8, 11-12)? Are you maintaining a right relationship with God and your neighbor?

3. Who does the psalmist say are happy and why? What actions do people take who are happy (vv.4-5, 9)? What are the consequences of these actions (vv. 2-3)?

4. Does the psalmist say everyone will approve of such actions (v.10)? Why would people disagree with the psalmist (v.7)? Of what are you afraid?

5. Did Paul come to the Corinthians proclaiming the mystery of God (v.1)? How did he make his proclamation (vv. 1-2)? What emotions does Paul describe when he came to the people of Corinth? Why do you think he meant? How do you talk about Christ around people who do not know or recognize Christ?

6. How does Paul describe his speech and proclamation in verse 4? On what was Paul relying? Is wisdom and logic always to be ignored in talking about Christ? How can we better prepare to share the Good News?

7. Are verses 13-16 of Matthew 5 to be read literally? What then do these verses mean? If we are to follow Christ (and therefore God), what is required of each of us?

8. What does Jesus say he came to fulfill? What are the law and the message of the prophets that Jesus is talking about? What are we called to do (vv.19-20)? How is your relationship with God and your neighbor? What do your actions teach other people?

Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, January 30, 2011

Micah 6:1-8

Psalm 15

1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Matthew 5:1-12

1. Micah 6:1-8 appears to be a heated conversation between God (through Micah) and the people of Israel. What are God’s questions in verse 3? Have you ever wondered why someone does something ugly or unkind to you after you have done them a great favor? How do you think God felt after reading verses 4-5?

2. Have you ever tried to pacify someone who you have angered? Is that what the people of Israel are asking in verses 6-7? What does Micah tell the people that God requires of them to be in a right relationship (v.8)? What is the difference between justice and kindness (also translated mercy)? What does it mean to walk humbly with your God?

3. What does it mean to abide in God’s tent or on God’s holy hill? Is this to be read literally or figuratively? What answers does the Psalmist give to this question (vv. 2-5)?

4. What happens to relationships when you do what is right to one another? What happens if you do not speak the truth, or slander, or take a bribe? Reproach can be translated to be acting contemptuously, or with scorn, or taunting another person. Do you ever do that? Has it ever been done to you? What prophet would have we read who called Israel to do likewise?

5. What does the cross mean to you? What was the cross used for by the Romans? What is the message of the cross? In regard to knowing God, what does Paul say the Jews demanded (v.22)? And what about the Greeks (v. 22)? Why would the crucifixion of Christ be a stumbling block to Jews and Gentiles?

6. Does Paul say only people who are unwise able to understand the actions of God in the crucifixion of Jesus (v. 26)? God turned the world upside down through Christ—how does Paul describe this (vv.27-28)? Who is the source of your life in Christ?

7. What does it mean to be poor in spirit—does it mean just being depressed or perhaps not being selfish and self-centered? Why would someone be blessed if they are mourning—does it have any relationship with being separated from God and neighbor? Does meek mean week or perhaps acknowledgement of God and the need to treat neighbor with dignity and respect?

8. What do you hunger for—wealth, power, or more food? Will that satisfy? Or does it mean a desire for a right relationship with God and neighbor? What does it mean to be pure in heart—are you motives always pure in heart? What causes you to become upset with other people—do you always have to have your own way; can you ever see the other person’s side? What did Jesus command us to do and are you willing to be persecuted for doing so?

Third Sunday after Epiphany, January 23, 2011

Isaiah 9:1-4

Psalm 27:1, 4-9

1 Corinthians 1:10-18

Matthew 4:12-23

1. The reading from Isaiah today is from the first part of Isaiah addressed to the people of Israel living in a manner contrary to what God had commanded—in sin! Who or what do you think was the human ruler of the lands of Zebulun and Naphtali? What had happened and what is promised in verses 1 and 2? What does the word darkness in verse 2b mean to you?

2. In verse 3, there are words of celebration. Who do you think is referred to as “You”? In verse 4, what is celebrated? What happened on the day of Midian (Judges 7:15-25)? Read verses 5-7 of Isaiah 9 and ask yourself who is being referred to in about 733BC?

3. What form of psalm is Psalm 29—one of fear of God or faith in God? What causes you to be fearful and how to you combat that fear? What does verse 4 mean to you—is it to be read literally or metaphorically? What do verse 5-6 mean for you?

4. Reread verses 7-9. Have you ever cried out to God for help? Have you ever wanted God to provide you some form of an answer immediately? Do you ever feel like God refuses to listen to you or is angry at you? Why would you think like that if you believe God is your salvation?

5. What is Paul calling the church at Corinth to do and why? How could this have happened?

6. Does Paul’s message hold true for the church universal today? Why do you think there are so many denominations of Christianity? Is such division good or bad or neither?

7. According to the Gospel of Matthew, why did Jesus move to Capernaum? What was the message Jesus began to proclaim (v. 17)? What does that message mean? Are you living in darkness? Do you want to live in the Kingdom of God now? Why or why not?

8. What other action did Jesus take (v. 18)? So, if we are to follow Jesus, what has been demonstrated in this passage from Matthew that we are to do? Are you ready?

Second Sunday after Epiphany, January 16, 2011

Isaiah 49:1-7

Psalm 40:1-11

1 Corinthians 1:1-9

John 1:29-42

1. The reading from Isaiah today is from the second part of Isaiah addressed to the people of Israel living in Babylon. After reading verses 2 and 3 of Isaiah 49, who do you think might be the servant? Who is that servant (v. 3)? What is the servant lamenting in verse 4 and why? IN whom does the servant trust?

2. Why was Israel despised (v. 7)? What is God’s plan for Israel (v. 6)? How has God gone about carrying out this task?

3. What form of psalm is Psalm 29? What do you think might have happened to the psalmist (vv. 1-2)? What did our faithful God do for the psalmist (v. 3)? Who does the psalmist say will be happy and why (v. 4)?

4. What does God not desire or require (v. 6)? What is the psalmist delighted to do (v. 8)? What is in the psalmist’s heart and what difference does that make (v.8)? How is the psalmist going to respond (vv.9-10)? How have you responded when God has delivered you?

5. To whom is Paul writing (v.2)? What does it mean to be sanctified in Christ (v.2, 5-6)? Are you? What does Paul offer to the readers as did God (vv. 3-4)? How have you experienced grace?

6. What does Paul say will be received by the listeners due to the testimony of Christ (v. 7)? What are spiritual gifts (see 1 Corinthians 12:4-11)? Is everyone to have the same gifts? How do you determine if you have a gift? Does the gift come automatically or do you have to practice?

7. Why did John the Baptist describe Jesus as the Lamb of God—what did he already know (v.29, 32-34)? What did John the Baptist continue to do—did he keep it secret what he had learned about Jesus?

8. What do we become once we have been baptized? Do you realize you have been called by name to be a disciple? Will people follow you because your actions and your words testify to the love of God for all of us?

Third Sunday after Epiphany, January 23, 2011

Isaiah 9:1-4

Psalm 27:1, 4-9

1 Corinthians 1:10-18

Matthew 4:12-23

5. What is Paul calling the church at Corinth to do and why? How could this have happened?

6. Does Paul’s message hold true for the church universal today? Why do you think there are so many denominations of Christianity? Is such division good or bad or neither?

8. What other action did Jesus take (v. 18)? So, if we are to follow Jesus, what has been demonstrated in this passage from Matthew that we are to do? Are you ready?

First Sunday after Epiphany, January 9, 2011

Baptism of the Lord

Isaiah 42:1-9

Psalm 29

Acts 10:34-43

Matthew 3:13-17

1. The reading from Isaiah today is from the second part of Isaiah addressed to the people of Israel living in Babylon. This passage begins with God blessing God’s servant. Who is that servant? What will this servant accomplish (v. 1)? Will the servant accomplish this task with violence or non-violence (vv. 2-3)?

2. On whom can the servant always rely for help (vv.5-6)? What has God covenanted to so with the servant (6b)? What is God going to do through the servant (v. 7)? What new thing is God intending to do (v. 9)?

3. What form of psalm is Psalm 29? What does the word ascribe mean (vv. 1-2)? By what means are God’s actions described in this Psalm (vv. 3-9)? Where else in the First Testament are God’s actions similarly described?

4. Who do you think the psalmist believes to be in control? Who is in control of your life? Who or what do you rely on for guidance?

5. To what new action of God does Peter testify in the passage from Acts? Do you think God is limited to doing only one new thing or could God do new things repeatedly over time? Does God show partiality (v.34)?

6. Who does Peter say is acceptable to God? What does fear of God mean to you? Did you ever fear an authority figure in your life? What constitutes doing right before God? What consequences have you suffered for failing to do what is right?

7. Why did John the Baptist balk at baptizing Jesus (v. 14)? How does Jesus respond (v. 15)? What does Jesus mean (see Matt 5:17)?

8. What does baptism mean to you? Do you remember your baptism? Do you want to reaffirm your baptism?

Epiphany Sunday, January 2, 2011

Isaiah 60:1-6

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Ephesians 3:1-12

Matthew 2:1-12

1. In the passage from Isaiah, the Israelites who were in exile are beginning to return to Jerusalem. What promise do you read in verse 2 and 3 of Isaiah 60? Who will return (v. 4) and where else have they been except Babylon?

2. Reread verses 4 and 6. Of what do they remind you that occurred some 500 years later in history? What is the difference between what Isaiah is writing and what we are celebrating at this time of the year?

3. What form of psalm is Psalm 72? What is being requested and for who? What are the attributes of the king?

4. What are some of the attributes of Jesus? Does Psalm 72 describe some of the same attributes? Why then was Jesus crucified?

5. What mystery is Paul talking about? How did he learn the answer to the mystery?

6. How did you learn about the answer to the mystery? What is God’s plan in regard to the mystery? Where do you fit into this plan?

7. For what were the wise men searching and why? Why was King Herod frightened (v. 3)? Why was all of Jerusalem also frightened (v. 3)? How do you pay homage to Christ?

8. For what are you searching? Why? Do you think you might have to humble yourself to find it? If you had possession of everything on earth, what would you still be lacking?

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