November 25: Anticipation

Did you actually take a peak before Christmas at your gifts under the tree when you were a kid? I know I did! I just couldn't wait any longer without doing something to find out what was in my packages. As followers of Christ, we can not only look forward with anticipation to the celebration of Christ the baby each year, but we also have the privilege of anticipating the second return of Christ! The Explore the Bible Study: Anticipation, will help us learn what we are to do while we anticipate the return of Christ.

We are coming to the end of our study of James. In James 5:7-20, we are given some imperatives regarding how  we should live while we anticipate the return of Christ.

OUTLINE
The downloadable teaching ideas will follow this progression and make the following points. Be sure to check out the discussion and information provided.

• Be Patient as you Anticipate the Lord's Return - James 5:7-11
• Be Consistent as you Anticipate the Lord's Return - James 5:12
• Be a Prayer Warrior as you Anticipate the Lord's Return - James 5:13-17
• Be a Restorer as you Anticipate the Lord's Return - James 5:19-20

OPENING VIDEO OPTION

Consider using the following video as a part of your introduction.

BACKGROUND STUDY

The following sermon from Jack Graham, Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church provides some great information related specifically to James 5:13-17.

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November 18: Submission

I certainly don't recommend this, but if you search the internet for articles or other information related to the subject of submission, you will discover just how perverted and polluted this concept is portrayed in our culture today. Yet, from God's point of view, this is not a bad or demeaning word. This is what this week's study, Submission, will help us understand.

Our TARGET this week is this statement: "We are to submit our entire lives to God." The downloadable teaching ideas contain an outline that first focuses on what it means to submit to God based on James' use of the term in James 4:7. It then outlines these areas that we are to submit to God:

1. We are to submit our positions (our view of ourselves) -- James 4:8-10
2. We are to submit our opinions (our view of others) -- James 4:11-12
3. We are to submit our plans -- James 4:13-16

Be sure to check out the questions and illustrations as you consider how best to lead your group through this very important passage related to submission.

Here is an overview of James 4:1-12 that you might find helpful as you prepare this session.

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November 11: Control

An undisciplined tongue can wreck homes, inflame emotions, obliterate reputations, destroy businesses, and send nations to war. A committed, disciplined tongue can inspire holiness, encourage forgiveness, and glorify God. Considering the political and social climate of our country today, this week's LifeWay Explore The Bible Study: Control, comes at a very appropriate time.

The session will focus on James 3:1-12 with a TARGET focused on the following:

God wants his people to control their tongues and to display true wisdom.

The downloadable teaching ideas suggest closing out by using the following verses as a means for the group to consider areas in which they need to ask God to help them control their tongues.

1 Peter 3:10 | Colossians 4:6 | Ephesians 4:29 | Proverbs 10:19 | Proverbs 15:4 | Proverbs 15:28 | Proverbs 21:23 | Psalm 141:3 | Proverbs 12:18 | Proverbs 15:1 | James 1:26 | Psalm 52:2

James uses three analogies in order to illustrate the power of the tongue in James 3:3-6

• Bit – The rider of a horse uses a bit to control and govern a wild, unmanageable horse. Though the bit is small, its use gives riders the potential for turning the animal in whatever direction they wish.
• Rudder – In gales and violent winds, pilots use the rudder to guide the ship to safety or point it in the direction of intended travel. Compared to the size of a ship, the rudder was very small, but its importance in controlling the ship demanded careful attention in its use.
• Fire – A small spark can quickly grow to a raging forest fire destroying everything in its path.

Like the bit for the horse and the rudder for the ship, the tongue is small in comparison to the body and yet has powerful potential to achieve great results, both good and bad. It can stir up violence or promote peace. It can crush the spirit or soothe the discouraged. Like a small spark in a parched forest, the tongue can spark a fire that can turn into a raging, destructive force that is virtually impossible to contain without first wielding unimaginable damage on everything and everyone in its path.

James' conclusion in James 3:7-12 that, while humankind can tame wild animals, they can't tame their tongues without outside help. First, we have no hope of controlling our tongue without first surrendering our life to Christ.  Then, we must constantly ask the Holy Spirit to take control of our speech, since we are not capable of controlling it on our own. The good news is, the Holy Spirit can and will help us control our speech if we ask Him to.

Curtis Vaughan ,in James: A Study Guide, has warned, "A ready tongue without an informed mind, a devout character, and a holy life will hinder rather than advance the cause of Christ. It is extremely easy for vanity, self-conceit, and spiritual pride to creep in."

Let’s strive to never be guilty of having a tongue that hinders someone from being saved or growing in their faith.

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November 4: With Works

We live in an age when many people limit faith to the mere verbal affirmation of "I believe." In LifeWay's Explore The Bible Study: With Works, James warns us that people who have correct belief and an empty life are quite deceived. They must have a faith which produces visible evidence of commitment to Jesus Christ.

James asks a powerful question in James 2:20, “Are you willing to learn that faith without works is useless?” (James 2:20 CSB) In this small question, James communicates two things: 

1. The attitude of a believer. If you aren’t willing to learn about this, then are you truly a believer? 
2. The process for a believer. Learning to express our faith through good works does not always happen automatically when we are saved. Doing good works because of our faith in Christ is something that we are always learning more about and seeking avenues to practice.

Expressing our faith through works does not happen automatically, and it can become dull over time. We must work together, as the author of Hebrews reminds us, “And let us watch out for one another to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 CSB)

The downloadable teaching ideas will help you guide your group to "learn" about the works that are evident because of our faith.

As you guide the study, guide your group to answer this question, 

“Do your works reflect the faith you say you have?” 

Background Helps:

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October 28: Obedience

Why is it that when we walk by mirrors we always want to stop and make sure we look o.k.? Maybe it's because it reveals anything that might need to be corrected. James describes the Bible as being like a mirror. When we look into the mirror of God’s Word, we begin to see what kind of people we are. Sometimes that view is not very pleasant. It can be easy to turn away and forget unless we become doers of God’s Word. LifeWay's Explore the Bible Study: Obedience, explores this in the book of James.

We often respond to stressful situations or other pressures with ungodly actions, which derail our path toward growing in spiritual maturity. In today’s passage, James challenges believers not to cave into pressures, treat people poorly, or turn to sin when we are facing trials. In the middle of his challenge, he uses the analogy of a mirror to emphasize his main point.

This week's downloadable teaching ideas provide two options for helping groups focus on the TARGET of the session. 

• Option One: Mirror (One full length or one or more hand-held mirrors. If you use a full length mirror, position it where group members will see it as then enter the room. If you use a hand-held mirror, ask one person to begin passing it around the room as the group enters. You don’t have to explain why. Just begin passing it around. Ask (Once most of the group has arrived): Why do people stop and look in mirrors when they see them?
• Option Two: Cell Phone “Selfies” (As the group enters). Ask several individuals to open their cell phone cameras as if they were going to take “selfies.” They should begin passing their phones around the room, encouraging everyone to check out what they look like through the camera. You could also consider inviting everyone to open the cameras on their phones, take “selfies,” and then show them to others in the group. Ask, "When you were taking the selfie, did you make sure you looked o.k.? Why didn’t you just take the picture based on what you remember you looked like after you got up and got ready for the day?"

The following paraphrase is provided as an optional closing. Consider reading or providing copies as the group departs:

DOER OF THE WORD

A Paraphrase of James 1:22-25

"Those who hear the Word but don’t become doers of the Word think they have learned but have been deceived.

They think if they experienced a great discussion, gained some Bible knowledge, and experienced a great presentation that they have learned.

They come and study God’s Word each week, but it makes no difference in how they live during the week.

They forget what they study. It is like looking in a mirror and then forgetting what you look like.

They come to Bible study, open the mirror of God’s Word, and they see what manner of men they really are. But when they leave, they don’t continue to look in the mirror of God’s Word during the week.

They soon forget what they learned.

Those who look into the mirror of God’s Word ,and it changes their speech, the way they live, and the way they treat people, they are doers of the Word.

They will not quickly forget what God has said, but they will mature into the people God intends for them to be."

Challenge your group to live by the following principle:

Don't tell me what you know; show me!

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October 21: With Perseverance

What do you do when life comes crashing in around you? What if you experienced what people who went through Hurricane Michael experienced? As I spent time preparing to teach this week's Explore the Bible Study: With Perseverance, I searched for video illustrations. As I read comments below the videos, my heart was saddened by the cold, callous, hardened hearts of so many. It seems that they hate God and hate people who love God. While they were making fun of the people of faith, the people of faith were trying to stand strong and demonstrate the hope they have in Christ. 

We must be a light to this dark world when faced with our own trials and temptations. We must stand strong and demonstrate that our trials make us stronger in our faith. Our witness and endurance demonstrate the light of Christ, the light of hope in the wake of dismal circumstances that will pierce the darkness of so many hearts. This is why the book of James is so important. We need to stand strong in our faith and demonstrate through our good works that Christ is real and that the gospel does change everything in our lives.

As you prepare to lead the session, consider using illustrations from one or both of the following recent events: Hurricane Michael and/or the release of Pastor Brunson from prison in Turkey. The downloadable teaching plans provide direction on how to use these events to guide the discussion.

In addition, the following videos could be used as well:

Hurricane Michael Devastation Illustration

Pastor Brunson Illustration

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October 14: True Compassion

Do you remember the nursery rhyme, Humpty Dumpty? As you know, Humpty took a pretty bad fall. But, if you recall, "all the kings men tried to put Humpty back together again"! This should remind us of our responsibilities as believers to help restore one another when we are overtaken by sin and take a fall. This is the focus of this week's Explore the Bible study: True Compassion.

There are several options in this week's downloadable teaching helps. You might want to use the Humpty Dumpty nursery rhyme as a part of the LOOK UP portion of your session.

If you are really brave, or have a younger adult audience, consider opening with the following video as a part of your introduction:

While the Explore the Bible suggested biblical text includes Galatians 6:1-10 and verses 14-15, I plan on only focusing on Galatians 6:1-10 in order to remain focused on the TARGET for the session:

SHOWING TRUE COMPASSION MEANS LOOKING FOR WAYS TO RESTORE BELIEVERS WHEN THEY FALL

The downloadable teaching ideas suggest a progressive outline that describes three steps believers can take to help restore a fallen believer based upon Galatians 6:1-10. These steps were referenced in the MacArthur NT Commentary: Galatians. When a believer succumbs to sin we should . . .

1. Pick Them Up - Galatians 6:1
2. Hold Them Up - Galatians 6:2-5
3. Build Them Up - Galatians 6:6-10

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October 7: True Fruit

I grew up in central Florida in a town called Frostproof. My dad, as well as many others in our small town, owned fruit (oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, etc) groves. I learned a lot while working with my dad in the grove. While I didn't appreciate it then, I now look back on those days and understand more fully his love for this work. That education in the grove has also helped me understand more fully what it means for me and all believers in Christ to produce the right kind of fruit. This is why the study of Galatians 5:13-26 is so special as Paul describes the good and the bad fruit that can be produced in a person's life. This is our focus in this week's Explore the Bible Study: True Fruit.

The study uses the fruit grove analogy throughout. I suggest you bring a bag of oranges or apples to your group session for illustration. Or, you might want to prepare a fruit tray to share with the group and to use as a part of your ongoing discussion. The downloadable teaching ideas provide more instructions on how to do this.

Paul contrasts the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the fruit (singular) He produces versus the works (plural) of the flesh. Use your material and additional helps to help your group understand these contrasts and to emphasize the power of the Holy Spirit to produce His good fruit in us.

Video Option: The following video could be used at the end to illustrate how a man, once enslaved to the "works of the flesh" (Galatians 5:19-21), is not producing the fruit of the Spirit in his life.



Did you know that fruit trees can produce two types of fruit from one tree? Most trees are grafted. For example, lemon trees are used in grafting with orange trees. If the tree has not been given proper care, the lemon tree can begin to grow from the tree as well. The result is unhealthy fruit. The lemons aren’t good, nor are the oranges. This weakens the tree.

This is what “works of the flesh” does to a believer. These works sprout up in our lives and rob the good fruit of needed nutrients. They choke out the good fruit that the Spirit desires to produce. This is why constant care should be taken in our walk with Christ. Like a fruit grove or orchard, ongoing nurture, good nutrients, pruning, and other activities are required in order to assure that good fruit is produced. If you are a believer, the Spirit resides in you; therefore you can produce good fruit!

I pray you will be able to communicate this clearly to your group this week.

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September 30: True Freedom

According to a report from the National Reentry Resource Center, of 404,638 people released from state prisons in 30 states in 2005, 67.8 percent were arrested within 3 years of release, and 76.6 percent within 5 years of release. Why would so many people who have been granted freedom be willing give up their freedom so easily? This question is one we ask when we see people seemingly walk away from the freedom they have in Christ. Why would anyone who has experienced salvation willingly go back to an old, destructive, and enslaving way of life? This was Paul's question in Galatians 4 that is a part of this week's Explore The Bible Study: True Freedom.

This week's session is fairly simple, yet thought-provoking. It will lead your group to think about why people would want to become enslaved again to sin after experiencing freedom in Christ, how we should respond to helping them, and if we would allow someone to talk with us as Paul talked with the Galatian believers when they began to drift.

Ultimately, the session is designed to emphasize the fact that we have a choice in life as believers - to become enslaved by the sins and influences of the past, or to grow in our faith so we can experience the freedom Christ has provided for us.

LOOK UP IDEAS (For Introducing the Session)
Here are a few more statistics included in the downloadable teaching plan that you could use to introduce the session:

According to statistics from Promises Treatment Centers, the following takes place with people who have been freed from various additions (source: https://www.promises.com/articles/sobering-look-addiction-relapse-rates/)

• Heroin and Opiate relapse rate is 90%
• Cocaine relapse rate within one year is 73%
• Eating Disorder relapse rate - A 2012 study published in Psychiatry Research found that of 100 women who received inpatient or day treatment for anorexia nervosa, 41% relapsed within one year. A study on relapse rates in bulimics assessed subjects before and after treatment, and then again after two years. Within two years, 31% had relapsed, with the majority of relapses occurring within the first six months. Another study by researchers at Oxford University that followed subjects over five years saw as high as 50% relapse rates in bulimics but only 18% in binge eaters.
• Alcohol relapse rate is about 90% within one year.

LOOK IN (Digging into the Biblical Text)

Guidance for discussing the following phrases in the passage are provided in the downloadable teaching plans:

• Galatians 4:9 - "Do you want to be enslaved to them all over again?"
• Galatians 4:11 - "I am fearful for you, that perhaps my labor for you has been wasted."
• Galatians 4:15 - "If possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me."
• Galatians 4:17 - "They court you eagerly, but not for good."
• Galatians 4:19 - "I am again suffering labor pains for you."
• Galatians 4:20 - "I would like to be with you right now and change my tone of voice."

These all express the love Paul had for these young believers. He desperately wanted to speak to them in such a way that would keep them from missing out on the freedom Christ had given them when they became believers. This is how we should respond when we see people drifting back to their old ways as well.

LOOK OUT: (Applying the Text)

Consider using some of the following questions to guide application. Perhaps you should consider how you would answer them before leading the session.

• Do we, in our culture today, feel that remaining silent when we see people being pulled away from their faith is the best way to respond? Why or why not? 
• What actions can we learn from Paul that would help us individually become better at helping someone when we see them struggling in their faith?
• How should what we studied affect the way we care for one another in our group: When someone is consistently absent? When someone begins to pull away?
• How willing would you be to allow a close friend in the faith to correct you when they saw you wandering away or being pulled away? How would you respond to their correction? How should we respond?

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September 23: True Heirs

I have a wonderful, precious great-niece (I'm too young to have a great niece!), who was adopted several years ago. To know what her life was like before adoption and to see her thriving and growing in her new family is such a blessing! While I haven't personally experienced earthly adoption, I have been adopted into God's family because I received Christ as my Savior. What an amazing gift God has given us! As Galatians 4:6-7 states, we believers are adopted into God's forever family, receiving all rites and privileges of being sons and heirs, and we can call God, "Father". This is what Paul describes in our Explore the Bible Study: True Heirs.

HELPS FOR GUIDING YOUR GROUP
Here are a few things you will find in the downloadable supplemental teaching plans. The image of the adoption certificate above is available as a document that is suggested to be used throughout the session.  CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ADOPTION CERTIFICATE

Video Options for the Introduction (LOOK UP):

Suggestions for Studying the Biblical Text (LOOK IN)

Galatians 3:24-26 - Contrast the difference between being in a guardianship (foster home) with being adopted.

Galatians 3:27-28 - Explain the following phrases Paul uses to describe our relationship with Christ.

• You have been clothed with Christ - Galatians 3:27
• You are all one in Christ - Galatians 3:28. CAUTION: See notes regarding the explanation of Paul's use of the phrase, male and female.

Galatians 3:29 and Galatians 4:1-7 - The fact that, because we are adopted, we can now call God, Abba, Father (Galatians 4:6-7), is such an incredible revelation. I have provided quite a bit of information to help drive home this great blessing from God. Here is just a sampling:

• John Piper states – "the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives is to change our slavish fears toward God into confident, happy, peaceful affection for God as our Father...We enjoy emotionally the Fatherhood of God by the testimony of the Spirit. 
• Spurgeon stated – "this sweet word Abba was chosen to show us that we are to be very natural with God, and not stilted and formal. We are to be very affectionate and come close to Him. Abba is but a babe’s lisping. Oh, how near we are to God when we can use such speech! How dear He is to us and dear we are to Him when we may address Him in this manner, saying, like the great Son Himself, “Abba, Father." 
• Spurgeon goes on to say, “Our first birth makes us sons of Adam, our second birth makes us sons of God. Born of the flesh, we inherit corruption; we must be born of the Spirit to inherit incorruption. We come into this world heirs of sorrow because we are sons of the fallen man: our new life comes into the new world an heir of glory, because it is descended from the second man, the Lord from heaven."

Suggestions for Applying the Study (LOOK OUT)

To celebrate our relationship with God as Father, consider reciting The LORD'S Prayer or playing the following video version:

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September 16: True Life

From cults, to world religions, to vain philosophies, everyone feels as if there is something more . . . or less, that they can do in order to experience true life. These views leave people, including many believers, confused and frustrated about what true life really is and how it can be attained. LifeWay's Explore the Bible Study: True Life, will help us focus on what truly, or should I say "Who" truly gives us life!

This picture is not referenced in the downloadable teaching helps, but I felt it drives home the point regarding all the directions people in our time are searching for the meaning of life. You might consider sending this image in an email to your group, reminding them to attend this week's session.

Some Crucial Questions - Galatians 3:1-14
Many of the ideas for this week's session were pulled from a sermon by Alistair Begg. You can listen to his sermon below:

The Great Offense: Was Jesus Really Crucified?
This article by John Piper provides some great information that could help explain Paul's emphasis on the crucifixion of Christ in Galatians 3:1. CLICK TO READ

Gospel Opportunity
Be sensitive and prepared to share the gospel or to help those who struggle with their faith.

Celebrate True Life!
This song is not referenced in the downloadable teaching plan, but feel free to add it or just enjoy it as you consider the True Life we have in Christ!

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September 9: True Grace

We have heard the song "Amazing Grace" sung at nationally televised funerals over the past couple of weeks. John McCain's funeral and memorials actually included multiple arrangements and Jennifer Hudson sang an arrangement at Aretha Franklin’s funeral. This special song has endured for more than two centuries, offering hope to those grieving or searching for meaning to life. But, do people really understand grace, or is this just a pretty song that tugs at the heart strings? Paul helps us answer that question in this session, True Grace.

BACKGROUND HELPS

Galatians 2: Justification by Faith, Alistair Begg


TEACHING IDEAS
More ideas can be found in the downloadable teaching plans.

Audio Option for Galatians 2:11-14
Listen as Dr. J. Vernon McGee humorously describes what took place between Peter and Paul regarding eating unclean food. The audio continues as long as you desire to listen. Feel free to use the section describing Peter's view of eating with the Gentiles.
CLICK TO LISTEN: http://blb.sc/002iJd

Three Options for closing out your session in celebration of God's Amazing Grace.

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September 2: True Gospel

Fake news has become a catch phrase for our society today. We are always challenged to verify if something is accurate when we hear or read it. This scrutiny should drive us to be more diligent in accurately sharing the gospel message. Adding additional things to the purity of the gospel turns the gospel into no gospel at all, thus creating fake news! This session, True Gospel, gives you a chance to teach the essential and only elements of the gospel while challenging your group to learn how to accurately articulate the gospel to those who have never heard, are confused, or have been led away by a counterfeit gospel. The gospel is not only good news it is REAL NEWS!

Explore the Bible curriculum focuses on the study of Galatians and James during the coming weeks. We will spend time viewing the gospel from two vantage points. In Galatians, Paul spoke to those trying to obtain salvation by means other than the pure unadulterated gospel, and James speaks to those who claimed to have salvation but their lives did not exhibit any visible evidence. The two books serve as companions to one another as the gospel is clearly defined and explained.

We begin by focusing on Galatians. Paul's heart was broken by the way believers were led astray as ours should also be. We face the same challenges today as the gospel becomes diluted by man's opinions in order to accommodate our sins or to manipulate others.

As you prepare to study and present this week's session consider using the following in your background study:

Trevin Wax blog, 6 Counterfeit Gospels. Use the material to help with leading your group to identify the inaccuracies in each statement that is provided as a part of the downloadable teaching ideas.

Galatians 1:1-5, The Man and His Message, Alistair Begg



Galatians 1:6-10, Only One Way, Alistair Begg




Galatians 1, God's Free Gift, Gene Getz



The downloadable teaching plans provide a series of inaccurate statements about the gospel that could be used to help your group determine how to avoid embracing these beliefs and helping others understand the truth about the gospel.

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August 26: Disciplined

By now, many children are returning to school and teachers are preparing to lay out the rules for the classroom and the discipline that would be given to those who choose to break the rules. Teachers work tirelessly, not only to teach, but to provide an environment where individuals learn the consequences of their actions in the classroom. This session will focus on David's response when he realized he had "broken the rules" (sinned) God had outlined.

This will be the final session from 2 Samuel. It will focus on David’s realization that he had sinned, the resulting consequences, the discipline of the Lord upon David (and Israel), and the restoration that took place.

As you lead this session, consider using some of the ideas below that are outlined further in the downloadable teaching ideas. There is much more content in this session, so consider working to summarize further the downloadable plan based on the amount of time you have for leading your group.

IDEAS FOR LOOK UP (GETTING THE GROUP ATTENTION)
Display the image at the top of this blog post (Consequences for Breaking a Rule) or write the following on a poster or whiteboard: Consequences (1) Verbal Warning; (2) Loss of Privilege; (3) Seat Change; (4) Meet with Teacher; (5) Call Home; (6) Parent Conference; (7) Meet with Principal.

In order to contextualize the events that created the consequences and prompted God’s discipline, consider using the following:

• Exodus 30:11-16. A census was not something that was wrong, but for David to do it was wrong! Taking the census was a sin for him possibly for the following reasons: (1) David’s motives could have been wrong – possibly for self-aggrandizement. (2) David may have wanted to “know how many” Israelite males above the age of twenty there were in Israel in order to be able to boast more accurately.In addition, much like when David attempted to return of the ark to The City of David, it was not done in the correct manner. David did not require all enrolled males to pay the half-shekel ransom required by the Torah, an oversight guaranteed to bring a plague against Israel.
• 2 Samuel 24:1-4 and 1 Chronicles 21:1-7. We see in these passages that the Lord was angry with the people of Israel for some unspecified reason. This rebellion spilled over into David’s life; therefore, God allowed Satan to “stir up” David against them as further explained in these passages. Notice in both of these passages that Joab tried to warn David, but David ignored his warnings. We should listen to those around us when we are drifting toward sin.

IDEA FOR LOOK IN (EXAMINING THE PASSAGE): When discussing 2 Samuel 24:16-25

Consider using the image below of the location of Mount Moriah. Lead your group to consider the importance of the location adding any of the reference content below (scroll over each passage to see the Scripture):

The site where the angel stopped judgment and David made his sacrifice is very significant and not just a random place chosen by God. The “threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite” is located on Mount Moriah. Mount Moriah is one of the most valuable pieces of real estate and one of the most hotly contested pieces of real estate on earth. It is the current location of what is known as the Dome of the Rock – a Muslim shrine built thirteen hundred years ago.  

• In Genesis 22:2, God led Abraham to Mount Moriah and instructed him to offer Isaac his son as a sacrifice. Of course, God intervened and spared Isaac’s life by providing a ram instead.
• About a thousand years later, the events of today's passage took place on the very same mount!
• David’s son, King Solomon, built the temple on the same site. Solomon’s temple lasted for over four hundred years until it was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar’s armies in 587/586 B.C.
• Seventy years later the temple was rebuilt on the same site by the Jews who returned from Babylon captivity. 
• Around the first century, King Herod made a significant addition to this structure, which then became known as Herod’s Temple. It was this temple that Jesus cleansed (John 2:15).
• In A.D. 70, the Roman armies destroyed the temple. All that remains of the Temple Mount of that era is a portion of a retaining wall known as the “Western Wall” or the “Wailing Wall.” 
• The God who first called Abraham to Mount Moriah still has plans for that place. The Bible indicates that a third temple will be built on or near the site of Solomon’s temple (Daniel 9:27). 

This quote gives the best explanation as to the significance of this site:

At the same site where Abraham once held a knife over his son (Genesis 22:1-19), David sees the angel of the Lord with sword ready to plunge into Jerusalem. In both cases death is averted by sacrifice. The temple is established there as the place where Israel was perpetually reminded that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin (Hebrews 9:22). Death for Isaac and for David's Jerusalem was averted because the sword of divine justice would ultimately find its mark in the Son of God (John 19:33). (Dillard, "David's Census," p. 107)

- The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Volume 3 – Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel

THE BOTTOM LINE

Sin always carries consequences, not just for the sinner but for others around him. God disciplines us to bring about repentance. Repentance should include confession, taking responsibility, and a change in behavior because of God’s mercy and compassion. 2 Samuel 24 provides a fitting conclusion to the story of David by calling attention, once more and finally, not only to his ambition and pride, but also to his humility and remorse. This is something we all experience in our lives as believers.

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August 19: Thankful

Imagine sitting down with others and sharing everything you have learned and experienced about God. If you are like me, you might begin by describing His work of salvation in your heart; then you might move to sharing about times in your life when God became very real to you because of how He worked in your life. Your story reaches a crescendo and excitement swells within you as you share, and you feel as if you could do the impossible because of God's greatness. This is the story of King David in our passages this week from the Explore The Bible Study: Thankful. He could not contain his praise or his thanksgiving for all God did and all God is. He had to say "thank you," and he wanted everyone to know about it!

As you lead the group to focus on David's thankfulness during the session consider the following:

Compare 2 Samuel 22:26-28 with the following paraphrases in order to lead the group to learn how to communicate God's responses to our virtues and vices.

Copy, cut, and distribute these verses to individuals in the group to read.
The Message (2 Samuel 22:26-28) 26You stick by people who stick with you, you're straight with people who're straight with you, 27You're good to good people, you shrewdly work around the bad ones. 28You take the side of the down-and-out, but the stuck-up you takes down a peg.	The New Living Translation (2 Samuel 22:26-28) 26“To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. 27To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the wicked you show yourself hostile. 28You rescue the humble, but your eyes watch the proud and humiliate them.

Guide the group to identify the descriptions of God David includes in 2 Samuel 22:29-36 as he praises God for who He is and what He has done. 

Below is the list that is included in the downloadable teaching ideas along with some discussion suggestions. The descriptions should cause all of us to say "thank you" and express our praise to God!

• He is a Lamp (v. 29) – “David told God that He was his lamp, the means by which he navigated trough the darkness of life.” (Daily Discipleship Guide, p.105). How is God your lamp in this dark world?
• He is a powerful God! (v. 30) – Did David really believe he could do what he describes, or he is saying, “because of You, I feel as if I could attack a barricade and leap over a wall”? (David's faith was so strong that he felt as if God could enable him to do anything! This is how we should all feel about God when we realize who He is! It means that with the courage God gives him, he is willing to assault a stronghold.)
• His way is perfect (v. 31)
• His word is pure (v. 31)
• He is a shield (v. 31) – When you read that God is a shield, what comes to mind? How has God shielded or protected you?
• He is the only God (v. 32)
• He is a rock (v. 32)
• He is my strong refuge (v. 33) – Describe a time when you have sought refuge in God.
• He makes my way perfect (v. 33)
• He makes my feet like the feet of a deer (v. 34) –Who could describe the way a deer runs through the woods? (Deer are sure-footed on uneven terrain, can leap seemingly without effort and take high ground, can escape danger with great speed, and move with beautiful grace. By analogy, David meant that, with God, he could face obstacles and dangers without being in a stumbling panic.)
• He sets me securely on the heights (v. 34) – Imagine standing securely on the top of a mountain plateau. How does this help you understand David’s description of God?
• He trains my hands for war (v. 35) – How does this apply to believers today? – see Ephesians 6:12. (David is so excited because of what he knows about God, he believes he could bend a bow of bronze!)
• He gives us the shield of salvation (v. 36) – This is probably the source for Paul’s metaphor of Christian armor in Ephesians 6:11-17, although Paul spoke of a “shield of faith” and a “helmet of salvation.” For Paul, armor is a vivid illustration of spiritual conflict; it is waged with prayer and is fought against Satan. David had more literal combat in mind.
• He exalts me (v. 36) – What does Matthew 23:12 say needs to take place in order for God to exalt us? (We must be humble). David knew this first-hand because he had been humbled many times. David was not bragging about being exalted. He was praising God for doing what only God could have done in his life.

Challenge your group at the end to compile their own thank you note to Christ for all he has done and all they have experienced of His grace and power. 

• The Downloadable teaching ideas provide more information.
• Consider the following video as a way to close out your session. Enjoy praising God as you listen!

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August 12: Righting Wrongs (New Title)

"I'm sorry" is perhaps the most difficult phrase for many of us to utter, especially if we are apologizing on behalf of someone else for something we didn't take part in. But, this is exactly what King David did in 2 Samuel 21:1-14. He not only apologized but sought to right the wrongs of the past because he realized that God was judging the nation for the sins of the past. 
Not only can we learn some principles for righting wrongs from this session; we can also point to Christ, the ultimate example of One who righted the wrongs of sin on our behalf.

While working with a ministry organization, I experienced one of the most difficult events. One of my team members moved forward prematurely with a decision that deeply offended someone from another part of the organization. While I was not the one directly responsible for her decision, I was her manager and I believed I needed to right the wrong. I knew that I needed to try to help the person who was offended and that our team would be judged based on one person's actions. I went to the offended leader and apologized personally without throwing my team member under the bus. I took full responsibility. Sadly, my apology was not accepted, but I did what I thought was right and, to this day, I feel released from any further responsibility.

This session could lead many in your group to discuss similar situations or to consider some of the social issues that are being dealt with today related to righting past wrongs. Consider using some of the following as you prepare to guide the session along with the downloadable supplemental teaching ideas.

LOOK UP: IDEAS TO BEGIN THE SESSION
Consider searching the internet for stories about righting wrongs, or use the following as your opening illustration: Righting Past Wrongs Illustration (Click to read and download)

LOOK OUT: IDEAS FOR APPLYING THE SESSION
The following video begins in the middle of an overview of this passage from Gene Getz. Listen to his commentary, his challenge related to taking responsibility, the relationship to Christ and His atonement for our sins, and his personal story of taking responsibility. Consider using the content or the video as a part of your conclusion.

Before you listen, read 2 Samuel 21:7-14.

Covenants were to be taken very seriously in that day, and Saul had broken it which implicated the entire nation. World history is rampant with broken treaties and promises (covenants). Even Catholic and protestant churches have a history of needing to right past wrongs. Personally, we observe or have experienced broken covenants and promises – in marriages, with friends, family members, or in the workplace. All of us have been the offenders or been offended by someone else at some point in our lives. This is evidence that we live in a fallen world. Whether it be out of ignorance or blatant selfishness, we are prone to be covenant breakers; therefore, we have to be willing to right wrongs, even if we feel we aren't guilty. We also must be willing to accept the apology of others so that we can move forward in life and continue to experience the blessings of God.

I pray that God will use this session to help us learn principles that will help us respond appropriately when it comes to righting wrongs.

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August 5: Averted

Do you believe God can use you to avert a conflict? He can. We see this taking place in 2 Samuel 20:1-22 as God used an unnamed woman from the town of Abel to divert a conflict that would have destroyed her city and all the inhabitants because of one man's anger. This is the focus as you lead your group to study this passage.

I plan on beginning the discussion with my group by asking them to complete the following statement,

"I deal with conflict by . . ."

Word Pronunciations
(Click on each word to listen)

• Sheba
• Bichri
• Amasa
• Abishai
• Abel
• Beth-maacah

Videos
Optional videos could also be used to introduce the session. Here are a couple links to humorous video clips that could be used in order to begin the conversation about conflict:

Some of the discussion questions included in the downloadable teaching ideas include:

2 Samuel 20:1-2

• Describe Sheba’s motivation for stirring this conflict.
• The Scriptures point out that Sheba was a Benjaminite. King Saul was also from the tribe of Benjamin. Do you suppose that Sheba harbored resentment because of what happened to Saul? Was Sheba’s response based on selfishness?
• Why would anyone want to destroy the new unity that was unfolding for God’s people?

2 Samuel 20:14-16

• What did she risk by speaking up? What would she have risked if she hadn’t spoken up?
• Do you agree or disagree with this statement? “If we desire to be used by God in order to divert conflicts we can’t stand at a distance.”
• If you are going to get close to the conflict in order to interject some wisdom, what must you do to prepare?

2 Samuel 20:17-22

• What were the actions taken by Joab? (listens, answers her questions, asks for Sheba)
• What were the actions taken by the woman? (confirms she’s speaking to Joab, tells about Abel, questions Joab’s actions, agrees to Joab’s request)
• How do both Joab and the woman show wisdom? What can you appreciate about the ways this woman used wisdom? How can you apply these in your own life? (ETB Daily Discipleship Guide, p. 90)

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July 29: Restored

Some of you may know what DWYSYWD means. It is used in James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner's book, The Leadership Challenge as a way of challenging leaders to demonstrate trust. It means “Do What You Said You Would Do” (The Leadership Challenge, third edition, p. 38). When we don't, we lose the trust of those following us. Trust is one of the most important leadership qualities to possess, the easiest to lose, and the most difficult to restore. This week's session will focus on actions David took in 2 Samuel 19:1-15 to begin restoring trust.

When King David lost Absalom but won the battle against Absalom's army, he had a lot of work to do in order to restore his own trust and unity to the nation of Israel. DWYSYWD should be our leadership motto when it comes to trust. Actually, this should be our motto as Christians, period! We should be people whom others can trust!

Here are some points and ideas that are included in the Additional Teaching Ideas:

2 Samuel 19:1-4

• What does the response of the soldiers reveal about their respect for David as a leader? 
• Why would someone be loyal to a leader like David? What made him more trustworthy than Absalom?
• David publicly grieved even though Absalom had become his enemy. David exhibited his pain in front of his army. 
• Would this take place today? Do leaders feel as if they have to hide their struggles and pain? 
• Do church leaders (whether they be pastors or volunteers) feel as if they need to hide their pain? Why or why not?
• What would happen if church leaders were more open about the pain they might be experiencing? How could this help restore trust in a leader?
• How should those surrounding a leader respond when a leader expresses his/her feelings or vulnerabilities?

2 Samuel 19:5-7

• Is Joab’s advice good advice? Why or why not? Would a leader be perceived as weak if he had responded the way David did? Why or why not? Would you respect a leader more or less if he had acted the way David did?

2 Samuel 19:8

Explanation and Images related to where the king possibly sat and why. Consider using the following images.

• A gate complex and its pavement was discovered at Dan (Images above) near the northern border of Israel, which was built at the end of the tenth century B.C. Near the entrance to the gate itself was found an unusual structure, built of ashlars and originally having at its four corners small columns with decorated capitals or bases. The use of this structure could not be determined archaeologically, but it is possible that it served as a base for a throne. “The reference in 2 Samuel 19:8 surely must refer to some special structure where David sat and where the people could see him". – Expositor’s Commentary, 2 Samuel
• The king placed himself at the center of public and commercial life. As he sat there in silence, his troops “came into the king’s presence.” This action communicates trust that things are going to return to normal. While David’s loyal forces stood with their king, there were others who fled to their tents (v. 8).

2 Samuel 19:9-15

Consider using one the options included with the Supplemental Teaching Plan that utilizes either the Explore The Bible Personal Study Guide or the Explore The Bible Daily Discipleship Guide.

While some of us have positions of leadership, everyone is a leader, especially if you are a believer. Someone is watching you, respects you, or wants to learn from you. Demonstrating trust is vital so that you can be the leader in your home, your workplace (even though you might not be the boss), your church, and as a Christian.

All of us can overcome past failures, grief, and devastating circumstances and regain trust, but it is difficult. Just as David did, a wise person (Christian, leader) will recognize when it’s time to move forward and reestablish what once was lost. 

There are additional ideas that could be incorporated into your session. You can download the complete plan below.

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July 22: Resentment (Changed Title)

Resentment leads people to do things they shouldn’t do, act in ways they shouldn’t act, and use others in order to seek revenge on those who have hurt them. As believers, we must not allow resentment to drive our decisions and our emotions. We must respond to those who have hurt us in ways that honor God. This is the direction I am taking this week as I lead our group to study 2 Samuel 15:10-30.

As you teach this passage, consider all the ways that people are expressing resentment today. We live in a culture today that seems to honor those who lash out at others because of resentment. They are applauded in the media, honored in ceremonies, and given national platforms. They use their resentment and anger to drag others into their schemes and plans.

Help your group understand that we can't allow resentment to be our mode of operation in life. We can't allow others' resentment, whether it be toward an individual, a church leader, a family member, a social injustice, or any other situation, to manipulate us into acting in ways that don’t honor God.

We can learn a lot in the passage as we examine the resentment of Absalom and the way David responded. Observe in the passages how others responded to Absalom and David as well.

WORD PRONUNCIATIONS
Click on each word to listen to the pronunciation

• Ahithophel
• Cherethite
• Pelethite
• Ittai
• Hushai

APPLICATION IDEAS
The downloadable teaching ideas provide the following that could be used to help the group to personally make application.

Ask: What can we learn regarding how to respond when people refuse to forgive and their resentment builds toward us? How can we guard our hearts from the festering seeds of resentment?

Apply (Consider assigning to individuals, partners, or groups): How can these verses help us deal with resentment? Mark 11:25; 1 Peter 5:10; Ephesians 4:31; Hebrews 12:15; 1 Peter 2:23; Romans 3:10; 1 Timothy 2:8

MAP OPTION
The following image could be used to help the group contextualize what was taking place as David climbed the Mount of Olives after leaving The City of David (2 Samuel 15:30). The image is taken from the direction of The City of David, looking out over the Mount of Olives as it looks today.

Here are the fruits of resentment in Absalom’s life: He turned on others, including family. He compromised God’s standards in order to fulfill his own agenda. He used people in order to exact his revenge. He convinced himself that he could do a better job than his dad. Absalom’s growing resentment led him to take what wasn’t his in order to exact revenge on his father, David.

I pray this session will help you and your group to wrestle with the issue of resentment and how to overcome and respond to it.

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July 15: Grieved

Family dysfunction, rape, and murder are all subjects that are revealed in this difficult, but necessary study of 2 Samuel 13:1-39. As you read the passage, I am sure you are grieved by all that took place. I am equally confident that David was grieved as he watched his family self-destruct before his very eyes. I also know that God was grieved, because what was taking place was not the kind of family that He desired for David to have.

This is going to be a very straight-forward, hard-hitting session as you wrestle with all the subjects in this passage. Please keep in mind that, even though this took place, God was still at work. Here are some of the ways I suggest you conclude your discussion. This and other helps are included in the downloadable teaching ideas.

Helpful References (click on each title to read more): 

• Why did Amnon rape Tamar? Why didn't David punish Amnon?
• 4 Ways Sin Destroys Families

The Tragedy for Tamar:

• There is no evidence that Tamar was helped in any way by the murder of Amnon. Amnon’s death did not restore her virginity, her reputation, or her future. Based on what we know about the cultural practices of that time, she probably remained condemned to a desolate life without any hope of marriage or children.
• While this is a Scriptural account of the events that unfolded due to the devasting effects of sin in one man’s family, we can’t ignore what happened to Tamar. If this had happened to Tamar today, she could have been included in the #Metoo movement. Her testimony could have been heard far and wide and the silence of David, the actions of Amnon, and the revenge of Absalom would have been shared on every news channel.
• The stigma of rape is still prevalent today. Sadly, many victims never report the crime. 
• Beyond the violent trauma of the act itself, the residual mental, physical, and spiritual effects of sexual assault and rape continue to permeate the daily lives of survivors.

Points to Emphasize

• 2 Samuel 13 serves as a sobering warning that sin destroys relationships. Remember, God had forgiven David of his sins with Bathsheba, but the consequences of those sins were already set in place. 
• David watched his entire family self-destruct because of the choices he made, not only as a king, not only as one who loved God, but as a father!
• The wretched, tragic story of Amnon and Tamar highlights some of the problems associated with sexual sin and its aftermath. No one should experience the treatment Tamar endured, and it is important to respond to such situations with integrity and justice. David neglected justice, and Absalom implemented his own standards, creating additional problems in the process.
• Remember God’s promise to David earlier: Despite the dysfunction of David's family, God still accomplished His will of bringing His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world through the lineage of David. God took this dysfunctional family, and out of it came the redemption of mankind from sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Questions to Consider

• Why didn’t God stop this before it took place? (If we asked this question, then we would have to ask, “Why didn’t God just destroy all mankind after Adam sinned?” We are all sinners. God’s grace and mercy is evident even in the midst of the tragic effects of sin – not only in David’s life but in ours as well. He still had a redemptive plan that would rise out of the ashes of the sins of David and his sons.)
• Imagine you are David watching all this unfold in your family. What would be going through your mind? What feelings would you be experiencing? What actions would you want to take?
• Imagine you are God watching all this unfold in the family of the one described as “a man after God’s own heart.” (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22). What would you be thinking? How would you be feeling?

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July 8: Accountable

How would you feel if someone treated you badly after you had given everything imaginable to them ,including your love and grace? If you are like me, I am sure you would feel betrayed, disappointed, angry, or maybe even vengeful. Can you imagine yourself or anyone doing this to God after all He has done to give us salvation and all the many other blessings He so freely bestows on us? David did this, and it broke God's heart! But, God didn't walk away. He held David accountable because He loved him. David responded by taking full responsibility for his sin. We can learn a lot about accountability as we lead this session with our group.

As you lead this session, please keep in mind that there will be some who: (1) don't know Christ and need to understand that they will be held accountable for rejecting Christ, but that Christ offers forgiveness and an eternal relationship with Him, (2) are professing believers who need to understand the tragedy of the sins that they commit and the slam it makes toward the grace God has so freely given.

The focus of this week's session can be summed up with this statement based upon God's broken heart as described in 2 Samuel 12:7-12:

"I (God) have given . . . yet you (David) despise Me"

This is how God felt about the way King David, who have been given so much, chose to "despise" God when he sinned against Him with Bathsheba and all the additional sins this led to.

HANDOUT - The downloadable teaching ideas provide a handout on the last page, a list of accountability questions. I suggest this as an optional application point at the end of the session.

PSALM 51 - I highly recommend you incorporate Psalm 51 into your session. The downloadable teaching ideas suggest using it at the end of the session.

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