December 13: Ordinary (Original ETB Title: Conceived)

Does our society affirm, respect, or even embrace those who are viewed as "ordinary"? Ordinary can take on a negative tone in a society in which everyone is focused on following those who society holds up as extraordinary. Whether it is in the world of entertainment, politics, work, social media or even in the church one, might think he or she is “ordinary” compared to those who society has lifted up as being extraordinary. We must understand that God uses the ordinary in extraordinary ways. We can learn this lesson today as we look at the life of Mary in our study for this week.

We can discover through Luke 1:26-38 that God has a place for everyone in His redemptive plan; He uses ordinary people in that plan. As you study these passages consider these thoughts:

• God's plan for ordinary people is intentional - Luke 1:26-29
• God will provide guidance to help us understand the extraordinary plans - Luke 1:30-33
• God will offer reassurance to help us understand His extraordinary plans - Luke 1:34-37
• An "ordinary person" will respond with humble obedience to God's extraordinary plans - Luke 1:38

Look back at your life and consider the “ordinary” people God has used to help you grow in your faith. You will see a pattern of obedience that is not driven by arrogance, but humility. I invite you to join the multitude of ordinary saints before you who became extraordinary because they served a God who is glorified, not by self-serving people, but by people who willingly say as Mary said in Luke 1:38, See, I am the Lord’s servant.

In November of 2016 Dr. Jack Graham, pastor of the Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano, Texas posted these thoughts. He entitled it, “God Uses Ordinary People to do Extraordinary Things”

“I love the stories in the Scripture where people are called by God to do something special for him. These people are just like you and me, just common, ordinary people.

• Moses was living on the back side of the desert, a total failure as the prince of Egypt, and God called him to deliver a nation.
• When Goliath was taunting the Israelites, everyone discounted David, a teenage shepherd boy. But God didn’t! And David defeated the giant and became the king of a nation.
• How about Nehemiah? He was living in Persia in complete obscurity serving as a cupbearer and God called him to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem.
• Mary was a teenage girl living in Nazareth when God called her to be the mother of the Messiah.
• And Simon Peter would have lived and died an ordinary fisherman except that Jesus called him to establish the church.

Do you see the pattern here? God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. He uses improbable men and women who have nothing of their own to offer, but their faithfulness and willingness to say, “Yes.” 

So, what has God called you to? I’ll tell you. It’s something wonderful and extraordinary! He’s calling right now. And all you have to do is say, ‘Yes, Lord.’”

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VIDEO SESSION

December 6: Planned

How has 2020 affected your plans? Have you cancelled vacations, delayed visits to the doctor, postponed family gatherings? Have you wondered if the political and social unrest would unravel your plans for the future? We all have had to make adjustments due to the many events taking place in our world today. This session focuses on how God rocked the plans of a dedicated Jewish priest and his wife with one simple, yet significant, announcement.

Over the coming weeks the study will focus on the Gospel of Luke.  Luke begins by describing two unique births—the birth of John the Baptist and the birth of Jesus. We are first introduced to an elderly Jewish couple, the priest, Zechariah, and his wife, Elizabeth, and the announcement regarding the birth of their son, John.

Both are described as righteous individuals who lived “without blame” in the Lord (Luke 1:6) yet “had no children” (Luke 1:7). Zechariah was a descendant of Moses’ brother, Aaron and, because of this, was one of many who shared the priestly duties in the temple. The passage of study for this session begins with Zechariah faithfully fulfilling his priestly duties by entering the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense (Luke 1:9). As Zechariah was performing this duty, an angel appeared on the right side of the altar. This is when God changed Zechariah’s plans!

Luke 1:13-25 describes how Zechariah's plans were changed because of one special encounter with a messenger from God. The plans announced to Zechariah caused him to doubt that God could do what was promised, resulting in God teaching Zechariah an important lesson regarding trusting God. The outcome for Zechariah was an amazing birth, an incredible affirmation that God was at work, and a demonstration of transformed faith!

God reminds us in Proverbs 16:9 that A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Zechariah and Elizabeth had a plan—a routine—in which they had become comfortable. It even included prayer, but then God spoke and their plans changed drastically. While Zechariah struggled with doubt, the lesson God taught him transformed his doubt into faith and trust! He adjusted his plans to God’s plan.

What about you? Are you listening and watching for God? Are you willing to allow God to interrupt your plans and work in ways that don’t match your expectations and fulfill your desires, or in ways that don’t even make sense? Are you willing to trust Him when He speaks? If so, then you are right where God wants you and He will guide you and give you strength and wisdom, no matter what the future holds.

When God does reveal His plans to you, I pray you will heed the advice given to Zechariah at the beginning of his encounter in Luke 1:13 - “do not be afraid . . . your prayer has been heard.”

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November 29: God Restores

Have you ever thought, “I would love to just escape and move to a tropical island”? We might characterize it as a perfect place of beauty, happiness, peace and escape. But, deep down, we know that even the most beautiful tropical islands have their drawbacks. The prophet Isaiah describes a place that will be perfect in Isaiah 65:17-25. It's a brand new place that God is creating--a new heaven and earth. It is a place for the redeemed to enjoy. Celebrate the promise of a new heaven and earth created by God as you prepare and lead this weeks session.

As you study the Bible passage, reflect on the awesomeness of Isaiah’s words. God has a plan for believers to live in His presence forever. The hardships and pain of this world will vanish amid the joys of intimate fellowship with our Creator, Redeemer, and Lord. Today we are one day closer to that new heaven, new earth, and life everlasting for all of God’s people.

Considering our country's current situation, believers need this message of hope so that we might experience a renewed faith and trust in God and so that we might demonstrate our faith in Christ to a world that is looking for relief from sickness, death, political turmoil, and economic challenges.

The prophet Isaiah describes three things that will make this place a perfect paradise:

1. It will be a place of JOY -- Isaiah 65:17-20. Memories of sin, suffering, sadness, and other sources of sorrow or regret will be erased. God will be rejoicing with us. 
2. It will be a place of PROSPERITY -- Isaiah 65:21-23. Success will be the norm. All of this will take place because the people will be blessed by the Lord. The time of curses and threats will be gone, and blessings and life are eternal.
3. It will be a place of PEACE -- Isaiah 65:24-25. Perfect peace is characterized in the context of relationship with God, each other, and even with nature. We’ll experience perfect communication and communion with God. God and His people will abide together in such harmony that the Lord will hear and respond to their needs before they even ask Him. Wild animals, formerly at odds with each other, will dwell together in tranquility.

Life’s challenges can cause us to lose hope. If we are not careful, we can begin to believe all is lost and our best days are behind us. I want you to consider the possibility that the situations you are currently experiencing might be robbing you of hope, confidence, and peace. If they are, then list ways in which this study of the promised new heaven and new earth can restore your hope. Perhaps you don’t have hope, confidence, or peace because you have never made your peace with God. Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? If not, I pray that you will surrender yourself to Him and talk with someone who can help you begin your new relationship with Christ.

This new heaven and earth would be perfect, without sin or sorrow. God’s people would live in this place and experience complete JOY. They also would experience PROSPERITY in the form of God’s blessing for all eternity. He would be their God, and they would be His people. Finally, God’s people would know the PEACE only the Lord could give. They would enjoy that peace for all eternity. 

Isaiah wrote these words some 2,700 years ago. For God’s people today, this means that we are at least 2,700 years closer to the day God fulfills this promise! But we don’t have to wait until then to experience a taste of the joy, prosperity, and peace. If you have a relationship with Jesus Christ, you can begin now to enjoy what will one day be fully realized in Christ’s return!

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November 22 -- God Expects

 

If you say that something is a reality check for someone, your purpose it to make them recognize the truth about a situation, especially about the difficulties involved in something they want to achieve. God Expects will examine Isaiah 58:1-12 as the prophet, Isaiah, helps the Israelites face a reality check regarding their relationship with the Lord. 

In this passage the Lord calls into question the way the Israelites lived out their faith. As you study or prepare to lead this session, take your own reality check to determine whether your confession of Christ aligns with your actions. The one true God is just; therefore, as your study guide emphasizes for this session, He expects His people to demonstrate their faith through right living.

The passage will focus on three reality checks regarding proper worship. In order to understand these reality checks, you must first define the scope of worship. Worship is so much more than just an event we attend. It includes personal Bible study, group Bible study, prayer, corporate worship, and serving alongside other believers in the church, just to name a few. In Romans 12:1-2, you are told to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship. Colossians 3:17 states: whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. All that we do is to be done as unto the Lord. Broadly speaking, worship is a way of life.

The three reality checks of proper worship explored are:

1. Motives for Worship -- Isaiah 58:1-5
2. Results of proper worship -- Isaiah 58:6-10
3. Blessings of proper worship -- Isaiah 58:11-12

Throughout history, worship practices have had a tendency to drift away from their intended purpose. Consider the reality check God gave the Israelites regarding their MOTIVES for worship, the RESULTS of properly motivated worship, and the BLESSINGS of properly motivated worship.

If our motives are impure, misplaced, or misguided, not only is God displeased with us, but we will struggle during difficult times. Perhaps this is why so many are struggling with consistently being a part of corporate worship either online or in-person during the Covid-19 pandemic. Perhaps this is why so many who profess Christ are struggling to remain in God’s Word and are struggling to live out their faith during this pandemic. This pandemic should be a reality check for our motives regarding our lifestyle of worship. Prayerfully consider your motives for your religious actions and practices. Making necessary adjustments will bring out the best in our lives and will help us join God in His mission of rebuilding, repairing, and restoring broken lives. (see Isaiah 58:12)

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November 15: God Justifies

How do you honor the sacrifice others have made for you? How does their sacrifice impact you today? It is natural to honor those who have contributed to or sacrificed for our well-being or success. This session will focus on the sacrifice Jesus made.

The study examines the last of the four Servant Songs found in Isaiah 53. It tells us about the Servant who would sacrifice Himself for the purpose of paying for our sin. Through faith in the sacrificing Servant, we find forgiveness of sin and are justified before and restored into a right relationship with Holy God. This song gives us details of the Servant’s suffering and vindication. It also details how people would respond to the Servant. 

As you study Isaiah 53:1-12 the following list will help you understand how Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of the Servant. It's an amazing study and should prompt us to be thankful for how God worked to provide salvation for all those who would believe. The list is included as a handout in the Downloadable Teaching Helps.

BIBLICAL PROPHECIES FULFILLED IN ISAIAH 53:1-12

Isaiah 53:1-3

• John 12:37-38 – The Messiah's own people would reject Him. Isaiah 53:1 
• Matthew 2:21-23 – The Messiah would grow up in Nazareth. The significance of this is reflected in the attitude of Nathaniel, after being invited to come and meet Jesus by Philip, asked in John 1:46, “How could anything good come out of Nazareth.” – Isaiah 53:2a
• Philippians 2:7-8 – The Messiah would appear as an ordinary man. Isaiah 53:2b 
• Luke 4:28-29 – The Messiah would be despised. Isaiah 53:3a 
• Matthew 27:21-23 – The Messiah would be rejected. Isaiah 53:3b 
• Luke 19:41-42, Matthew 26:37-38, Matthew 27:46 – The Messiah would suffer great sorrow and grief. Isaiah 53:3c 
• Mark 14:50-52, Matthew 26:73-74 – Men would deny association with the Messiah. Isaiah 53:3d 

Isaiah 53:4-6

• Luke 6:17-19; Matthew 8:16-17 – The Messiah bore our sorrows and sufferings. Isaiah 53:4a 
• 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 3:18 – The Messiah would bear the sins of the world upon Himself. Isaiah 53:4b 
• Matthew 27:41-43 – Many would think the Messiah to be cursed by God. Isaiah 53:4c 
• Luke 23:33; Hebrews 9:28 – The Messiah would bear the penalty of death for man's sins. Isaiah 53:5a 
• Colossians 1:20; Ephesians 2:13-18 – The Messiah would be bruised for our iniquities. Isaiah 53:5b 
• Matthew 27:26; 1 Peter 2:24 – The Messiah's back would be lashed at His trial. Isaiah 53:5c 
• Galatians 1:4 – The Messiah would be the sin-bearer for all mankind. Isaiah 53:6 

Isaiah 53:7-9

• Matthew 27:27-31 – The Messiah would be oppressed and afflicted. Isaiah 53:7a 
• Matthew 27:12-14 – The Messiah would be silent as a lamb before His accusers. Isaiah 53:7b 
• John 1:29; John 19:14-18 – The Messiah would be God's sacrificial lamb. Isaiah 53:7c 
• Matthew 26:47-27:31 – The Messiah would be condemned and persecuted. Isaiah 53:8a 
• John 18:13-22; Matthew 26:57-66; Matthew 27:1; Matthew 27:22; Luke 23:11 – The Messiah would be judged. Isaiah 53:8b 
• Matthew 27:35 – The Messiah would be killed. Isaiah 53:8c 
• 1 John 2:2 – The Messiah would die for the sins of the world. Isaiah 53:8d 
• Matthew 27:57 – The Messiah would be buried in a borrowed rich man's tomb. Isaiah 53:9a 
• Mark 15:3 – The Messiah would be completely innocent. Isaiah 53:9b 
• John 18:38; Luke 23:33-34; 1 Peter 2:21-22 – The Messiah would have no deceit or guile in His mouth. Isaiah 53:9c

Isaiah 53:10-12

• John 18:11; Romans 3:23-26 – God's will would be that the Messiah should die for all mankind. Isaiah 53:10a 
• Matthew 20:28; Ephesians 5:2 – The Messiah would be a sin offering. Isaiah 53:10b 
• Mark 16:16; Revelation 1:17-18 – The Messiah would be resurrected and live forever. Isaiah 53:10c 
• John 17:1-5; Revelation 5:12 – The Messiah would prosper. Isaiah 53:10d 
• John 12:27; Matthew 27:46 – God would be completely satisfied with the suffering of the Messiah. Isaiah 53:11a 
• Romans 5:18-19 – The Messiah would be God's servant. Isaiah 53:11b 
• Romans 5:8-9 – The Messiah would justify man before God. Isaiah 53:11c 
• Hebrews 9:28 – The Messiah would be the sin offering for all mankind. Isaiah 53:11d 
• Matthew 28:18 – The Messiah would be exalted by God for his sacrifice. Isaiah 53:12a 
• Luke 23:46 – The Messiah would freely lay down His life to save mankind. Isaiah 53:12b 
• Luke 23:32 – The Messiah would be counted with the criminals. Isaiah 53:12c 
• 2 Corinthians 5:21 – The Messiah would be the sin offering for all mankind. Isaiah 53:12d 
• Luke 23:34 – The Messiah would intercede for man to God. Isaiah 53:12e

Source: Chart: 121 Messianic prophecies of Isaiah fulfilled in Jesus Christ. AMG's Encyclopedia of Jesus' Life & Time, by Mark Water

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VIDEO SESSION

November 8: God Comforts

Have you noticed children's obsession with adhesive bandages? It seems like every child goes through a time in which they desire to have a bandage on their – “boo-boos,” “owies,” “bobos,” “oucheys,” or other injuries! No matter how big or small the abrasion, cut, scrape, bump, or bruise, applying that bandage seems to make it all better. It feels even better when a mom or dad kisses the “boo-boo” and tells them, “Everything will be OK.” God Comforts focuses on the comfort Jesus brings to those who trust in Him.

Isaiah 49:1-13 tells about how God will bring comfort to His people. After telling them about the decades of Babylonian captivity and exile from their land, God promised to rescue the remnant nation. When the exile ended, God would accomplish the restoration of His people in a way that would make the nations stand in awe. He would bless His people, and the nations would worship God. He would accomplish this through the work of the Servant of the Lord. 

God stepped into history and revealed to Israel that the Servant of the Lord – the Comforter and Redeemer – would offer comfort in ways no one else could. Jesus is the ideal Servant and ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise. As the Servant-Messiah, He’s “the light of the world” (John 8:12), offering salvation to the ends of the earth, and the One to whom, one day, “every knee will bow” (Romans14:11; Philippians 2:10). As benefactors of the fulfilled promise, we should celebrate with joyous praise (Isaiah 49:13). 

What comfort it is to know that, in His compassion, God had a plan to redeem and reconcile us back to Himself. As the Thanksgiving and holiday season approaches, seek opportunities to comfort those in need. We all realize there are many who need the light of Christ so that they can find their way through all they are facing.

As God’s servants, may we find comfort in knowing He includes us in His redemptive plan, calls us to spread His message of salvation, and justifies us now and for eternity.

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November 1: God Acts

When you hear the term “one-of-a-kind,” what do you think of? I think of a snowflake. It’s my understanding that no two snowflakes are exactly alike. When a person or thing is described as one-of-a-kind, we are led to believe that it can’t be duplicated by human hands. It’s unique and can’t be copied. The Bible tells us that there is only one true and Holy God; He is one-of-a-kind. God Acts, focuses on the importance of believing that there is only one true God.

When people doubt that God is one-of-a-kind, they communicate more than what they realize. For example, if there were more than one god and if our life depended on these gods to act on our behalf, to which god would we turn? Which god is the creator, or did a god create anything at all? Perhaps man created god. When you doubt that God is one-of-a-kind you call into question His ability to do anything including determine your path in life today and your eternal destiny when you die. Additionally, the doubts of people will not change the fact that God is God and He is at work to bring about His plans, whether we believe He is the One true and Holy God or not.

Throughout Isaiah 46:3-13 God reminds His people about who He is as the one true God. Each "I" statement God uses describes another aspect of His character as the one true God. This should lead all of us to realize how ludicrous it is to depend on anything more than we depend on God.

God asks a question in Isaiah 46:5 that we should all try to answer: Who will you compare me or make me equal to? While believers may be less inclined to bow down, as the Israelites did, to physical objects, the temptation for idol worship still remains. Possessions, popularity, power, and position are idolized in our culture. Isaiah’s repeated warnings remain true today, cautioning believers not to exalt anything or anyone above the Lord. We must remember that anything we depend on outside of God can become an idol. These things will always let us down because everything, other than God, is temporal.

God told His people in Isaiah 46:8 to remember this and be brave. God’s people were going to be going through a terrible time of judgment and to experience some terrible difficulties while in captivity. They needed to remember that the God who created the universe, made a covenant with them, delivered them, sustained them, blessed them, and guided them, is the same, “one-of-a-kind” God who would still be there during their captivity and would ultimately restore them.

As believers, our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus! Jesus Christ, the Son of God is the One who saved us, is walking with us, sustains us, and will eventually deliver us from all that we are currently experiencing.  God is always at work moving this world toward His ultimate plan of redemption, and we are a part of the grand plan. We should remember this and be brave!

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October 25: God Renews

Have you found yourself desiring to step away from all the voices and circumstances that are pressing in on you and to just look for a way to renew your spirit and your life? For the believer, the path to renewal should look different because of our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Additionally, it should cause those who don’t follow Christ to consider the renewal He offers to those who entrust their lives to Him. God Renews, will help us learn about and the powerful testimony of living a renewed life.

The Covid-19 economic and social upheavals have caused many to experience things like stress, depression, irritability, insomnia, fear, confusion, anger, frustration, boredom, uncertainty, isolation and a host of other emotional and mental challenges.  Many are grieving because of the loss of a loved one or a friend to Covid-19. Still others have lost jobs due to the pandemic. 

Then there is the political and social unrest in our country that heaps on additional struggles. If that isn’t enough, many have experienced the pain of losing homes, businesses, and crops to hurricanes, fires, tornadoes, and freak windstorms. All of this has moved many to seek different paths in order to experience some sort of renewal.

Isaiah 40:18-31 serves as a conclusion to verses 1-17. In the first half of the chapter, the prophet spoke of future hope for the people who would live in Babylonian exile. This hope was anchored in God’s incomparable power.

As you study or lead a study of this passage, remember that Isaiah’s audience is hearing about what will take place in the future. Because they will know this in advance, they should realize that they can hold on to hope and trust God. We need to consider what this can do to help us experience renewal during our times of distress.

This passage of study includes a passage that is near and dear to most believers. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint (CSB).

While living in exile the Israelites would need to depend on God based on the hope they have in what they already knew about God. If they did, He would renew their strength even when they would feel as if all circumstances were going against them. Renewal included strength and much more!

• They would soar on wings like eagles – The would be able to live above the fray of what’s going on around them. We too can be lifted above the fray of all that’s going on around us if we have hope, trust, or wait on the Lord.
• They would run and not become weary –The description is that of a marathon runner who is running a long distance. It’s not easy and there are challenges. There would be times when they would, and we will need to be, like a marathon runner. This is only possible if our hope and trust is in the Lord.
• They would walk and not faint – Walking is a metaphor for everyday living. Not only will there be times when you will have to soar over your circumstances and have the endurance of a marathon runner, but every day you need to walk and not faint. Every day you should wake up to a new day of trusting in the Lord!

Renewal is available, complete, and perfect for all of life’s circumstances if we trust in the Lord!

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October 18: God Listens

Do you ever feel as if someone is not listening to you? Perhaps it's your boss, a child, or maybe even your spouse. We are all accused at times of not hearing something or not listening to someone. I’m sure you feel that someone you know isn’t a very good listener. When King Hezekiah and the Southern Kingdom’s backs were against the wall, they wondered if God would listen to them since they had made so many bad choices in the past. The fact is that God does listen and this will be the focus of the Explore the Bible Study: God Listens.

The last session from Isaiah 31 focused on the fact that Judah (the Southern Kingdom) faced a crisis and determined to turn to Egypt for help instead of turning to God. They didn’t even seek God for advice before making their decision (see Isaiah 30:2). Isaiah warned Hezekiah not to depend on the horses, horsemen, and chariots of the Egyptians. In chapter 30 Isaiah called the citizens of Judah rebellious children who carry out a plan, but not God’s plan. He says they made an alliance against God’s will and piled sin on top of sin (See Isaiah 30:1-5).

The alliance with Egypt was a failure and Assyria, now under the leadership of king Sennacherib had conquered most of Judah and was poised to conquer Jerusalem. In Isaiah 37, Hezekiah finally realized they had to turn to God. But would God listen?

We probably all struggle with whether or not God will listen to our prayers. We will discover that God does hear the prayers of His people and will act to fulfill His purposes and plans.

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October 11: God Protects

Where do people turn when a crisis occurs or their way of life feels threatened? Generally, people turn to other people or depend on resources such as a spiritual advisor, a respected Bible study leader, a presidential candidate, a political party, a medical breakthrough, their own abilities, or something else. "God Protects" will be examining the dangers of trusting man over God, based on Isaiah 31:1-9.

Judah (the Southern Kingdom), faced a crisis and was tempted to turn to other sources for help. Their actions demonstrated their lack of faith in God to protect them. We need to learn from Judah’s rebellion against God. They didn’t seek God, nor did they depend on God for their protection. They tried to correct circumstances on their own, through their own power and logic. While God can use anything and anyone to bring about His plans, to supplant His sovereignty with our own solutions is direct rebellion against the God who saves and the God who protects. 

Obviously, when those who profess Christ face a crisis, they know they should primarily turn to and depend on God for their help. Yet, it is still in our human nature to depend on others or other things instead of God. This doesn’t mean God can’t work through people and things, but to depend on those things before depending on God demotes God to a position lower than man’s solutions. 

Currently people believe that if the right presidential candidate is elected, our country will be safe. If the stock market continues to grow, they will feel secure. If there is a COID-19 vaccine, they can be protected.

Don’t succumb to the temptation of looking to others for solutions before looking to God. Obviously, God can use anything including medical breakthroughs and political parties to provide protection, but when He doesn’t, we shouldn’t panic and pursue options that would lead us to depend on man more than God for our protection. 

Nothing you are facing catches God by surprise. If you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you are safe and protected even in the midst of personal danger. Jesus promised in John 10:28: I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

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VIDEO SESSION

October 4: God Saves

The fact that God saves should give us hope in our current circumstances. It should give us the faith to press on and continue to praise God for all He has done, is doing, and is going to do in the future. Yet, many of us continue to struggle with trusting God with our current circumstances and our future. If we could only trust God, how would that change our perspective on all that we are currently facing or will face in the days ahead? This session, God Saves, will enable you to replace fear with hope because God's sovereign plan includes providing a way of salvation for those who believe in Him.

How would you complete these statements?

• If you knew the outcome of the Presidential election, how would that impact your faith in God?
• If you knew that our country will never cease to exist, how would that impact your faith in God?
• If you knew that our country, as we know it, would cease to exist how would that impact your faith in God?
• If you knew you were going to get Covid-19, how would that impact your faith in God?
• If you knew you were NOT going to get Covid-19, how would that impact your faith in God?

The reality is this: we don’t know the future, so we have to place our trust in something (or someone) outside of ourselves. This is why having a full understanding of God’s salvation through Christ is so vital if we are to live lives that are not consumed by fear. This only comes as we realize that the God who saved us is also the God who continues to save us. We are under His mighty arms of protection, no matter what we face. 

Considering all we are currently facing in our country and our world, our song of hope should be the song of Isaiah 25:1, Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you. I will praise your name, for you have accomplished wonders, plans formed long ago, with perfect faithfulness. If we have been saved, then we should honor God as stated in Isaiah 25:3 and rejoice and be glad as stated in Isaiah 25:9. 

Exaltation, praise, honor, rejoicing, and gladness are all responses from someone who realizes God saved them according to His perfect plan. As you examine Isaiah 25:1-10, celebrate the hope you have because God’s sovereign plan includes providing a way of salvation for those who believe in Him and enabling them to face any circumstances with hope and trust.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online.  The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas in boxes will be provided for engaging groups more when meeting in person. The boxed items could also be modified and used for online discussion as well. 

This week's session also provides a video clip you might want to use as a part of your opening introduction to the session.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

September 27: God Reigns

History is riddled with nations, empires, and cities that were once heralded as the greatest of all. Leaders throughout history have risen up who, at the time, seemed invincible – Alexander the Great, Nero, Attila the Hun, Genghis Khan, Adolf Hitler, and Joseph Stalin just to name a few - yet now they and their kingdoms are no more. In Isaiah’s day, Tyre and Sidon were Phoenician cities on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and were representative of the vast and financially powerful Phoenician civilization. To the human eye, they seemed invincible, but we will discover in our session this week that they were no match for God.

Countless movies and TV series have been made that depict the destruction or partial destruction of our country or major cities. For example, the 2015 ABC series, Designated Survivor, dramatized what could happen if most of our key leaders were taken out. Then there are the movies whose plots were based upon an invasion from other countries such as Red Dawn which dramatized what the western states would look like after being invaded by Russia. These are just a few of the “what if” situations used to capture our viewing attention and question how we might respond if one of the scenarios were to really take place in real life.

Most Americans can’t imagine this taking place because we tout ourselves as being one of the greatest countries in the world. This week's session takes a hard look at the reality that God is entirely in control of all nations. There is nothing that catches Him by surprise and He has a plan that is continually in play and that never changes. 

This session will prompt questions regarding God's love and the issue of God's judgement. The teaching helps provide guidance on the discussion. Challenge your group to consider these questions:

• What are some things that may cause a person to question if God is really in control?
• What actions would indicate that someone trusts in a nation, government, or some other form of security more than they do God? How can we avoid shifting our trust away from God?
• Can you imagine what it would be like if the United States ceased to exist? How would you respond? How would the loss of our country as we know it today impact your trust in God?
• Do you truly believe that God is sovereign over every nation? How would believing this shape your response to the current issues we are facing in our country?

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online.  The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas in boxes will be provided for engaging groups more when meeting in person. The boxed items could also be modified and used for online discussion as well. 

This week's session also provides a video clip you might want to use as a part of your opening introduction to the session.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

God Promises: September 20

Have you heard the phrase, "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth"? Most of us understand it’s meaning – don’t reject a gift someone gives us – but we may not understand where this saying originated. In Isaiah’s day, God offered King Ahaz a gift, a sign guaranteeing God’s protection. But Ahaz thought it was better to trust in Assyria instead of God—a decision that would have devastating consequences. God Promises, will examine God's promise and King Ahaz's response. Perhaps we can become more grateful and accepting of God's great promises to us through this study of Isaiah 7:1-17.

Trusting God’s promises before they come to pass is always a challenge, even for the most faithful. When we see difficult circumstances or “enemies of the faith” staring us in the face, we all have a tendency to look elsewhere for our strength and guidance. How we respond truly does demonstrate what we believe about God.

Think about the situations we are facing today. There are enemies of the Christian faith all around the world. Those enemies seek to destroy our faith. Even in our own country we have seen the challenges to our faith swell in recent years. Not only are there enemies of Christ, but we face difficult circumstances as well. Those circumstances can be equally destructive to our faith if we don’t trust Christ for the outcome.

GOD'S PROMISES ARE GIFTS TO US

Imagine how God feels when we reject His offers of salvation and we determine we are going to navigate life on our own using our own solutions. Imagine how God feels when believers refuse to trust God for solutions and seek to solve life’s problems without Him. Both break God’s heart because the outcomes could be avoided.  

God gave Isaiah some powerful words to share with King Ahaz that we would do well to embrace in our current cultural climate. These can be found in Isaiah 7:4 and Isaiah 7:9:

• Calm down.
• Be quiet.
• Don't be afraid or cowardly.
• If you do not stand firm in your faith, then you will not stand at all.

The video Bible study and the downloadable study ideas will help you personally and help you guide your group as they examine the Truth in God's Word this week.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online.  The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas in boxes will be provided for engaging groups more when meeting in person. The boxed items could also be modified and used for online discussion as well. 

This week's session also provides a video clip you might want to use as a part of your opening introduction to the session.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

September 13: God Sends

Have you ever asked God, "How long do I need to keep serving or telling others about you when it seems seems to be making no difference at all?" If you have, then you are not alone. Many believers will ask this question at some point along their journey of faith. God Sends will examine this question that Isaiah posed to God when it was revealed that his ministry would not have positive results.

Isaiah's question to God, "Until when, Lord?" (Isaiah 6:11) was the result of an amazing encounter he had with holy God (the Lord of Armies, Isaiah 6:3). This amazing encounter led to Isaiah realizing his sinfulness while in the presence of holy God. This realization led Isaiah to confess his sinfulness, to recognize that he lived in a world broken by sin, and to experience God's response of forgiveness. 

Isaiah's response to the amazing forgiveness of God was to obey when God asked, "Who should I send? Who will go for us?" (Isaiah 6:8). He responded to God's call by enthusiastically and humbly saying, "Here am I. Send me." (Isaiah 6:8). 

This is where Isaiah was shown by God the reality of the task. God already knew when Isaiah went to share the message of repentance that it would only harden the hearts of the Israelites even more. This demonstrates God’s never-ending appeal to all men to repent, even though He knows many will respond with deaf ears and defiant hearts. In addition, they would have no excuse when God’s judgement would come upon them because of their rebellion. They couldn’t blame God for not warning them of impending judgement.

Then Isaiah asks the question, "Until when, Lord?" (Isaiah 6:11). This is a question we would most likely ask as well. God basically said, “until My plan is complete.” One must wonder if any of us would continue to serve if God gave us this kind of response. Yet, this is the response God is giving all of us who follow Him. 

Serving on His behalf doesn’t always guarantee a positive response or experience. When we obediently share and show the good news of Jesus, we will most likely see people defiantly reject the message of repentance and salvation. This is a fact we all must face. 

• We don’t quit serving and telling the good news of Jesus because of this. 
• We don’t quit telling others just because the culture is plummeting into ruin. 
• We don’t quit because we have loved ones who willingly reject Christ. 
• We don’t quit because we have to wear masks or don’t gather like we once did on Sundays. 
• We don’t quit when our own circumstances become difficult. 
• We don’t quit because of mandates imposed on us regarding how we can speak about our faith. 
• We don’t quit because culture says our message is a message of hate. 

We simply can't quit serving Him and telling others the good news of Christ because His plan is not yet complete! There is more to come!

I pray all of us who have experienced Christ's amazing forgiveness will respond as Isaiah did, “Here am I, send me,” no matter the circumstances or the response of others.

EXPANDED STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online. The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas will be provided in order to engage groups more when meeting in person. The ideas could also be modified and used for online discussion as well.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online.  The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas in boxes will be provided for engaging groups more when meeting in person. The boxed items could also be modified and used for online discussion as well. 

This week's session also provides a video clip you might want to use as a part of your opening introduction to the session.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

September 6: God Confronts

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

We all have private and, sadly, public sin battles we fight in order to remain faithful to Christ. Succumbing to sin not only hurts us and others, but it hurts God. He created us in His image; therefore, the feelings we have when someone has succumbed to sin are feelings that He, too, possesses. God’s heartache due to sin is the reality believers need to remember as they begin the LifeWay's Explore the Bible study of the book of Isaiah. God Confronts Sin in these passages because of His broken heart, yet offers redemption if His people will simply repent and turn back to Him.

The book of Isaiah gets straight to the point regarding the sin of God’s people. The prophet Isaiah is given a vision by God concerning Judah and Jerusalem (Isaiah 1:1). At this time in history, the nation of Israel, which was united under King David and his son Solomon, had divided into two kingdoms – the Southern Kingdom (Judah; Including Jerusalem) and the Northern Kingdom (Israel). 

Isaiah, whose name means “the Lord saves,” is speaking mainly to the Southern Kingdom of Judah regarding how they had broken their covenant with God. Isaiah pronounces God's judgment and reveals the path to redemption that God provides.

THIS SESSION - ISAIAH 1

This session will peel back the layers on Judah's heart, revealing the ways the people offended God. It will explore the root issues that led to their heartless and empty worship and then will get to the heart of judgement that will come if they don't repent.

Pay close attention to the how the study guides you through the response of God to their sin, the reasons for God's response, and the offer of forgiveness from God. It's a beautiful picture of all God offers to one who repents and is restored into a right relationship with Him.

Video Option: There is one passage that deals with the action of pursuing justice as a part of repentance. The following video link is provided as an optional approach to explaining what it means to pursue justice. It might generate discussion that will help people navigate the message of justice that is being propagated by secular culture today.  CLICK TO VIEW - What is Biblical Justice?

Final Discussion-Application Questions - Consider these as you complete your study of Isaiah 1

• Imagine you were God, observing the ungodly practices and blatant rebellion of professing Christians today, some even in the name of Christ. How would you feel toward those who claim to have a relationship with You? How difficult would it be for you to offer the forgiveness that God offered in our passage today?
• Imagine you were God, looking down on the lost who openly oppose you and denigrate the salvation that is offered through your Son Jesus Christ. How would you feel toward them? How difficult would it be to continually provide an open invitation to the lost for salvation?
• Imagine God is looking down at you as He did the people of Judah. What might his feelings be toward the way you treat Him and others? Does repentance need to occur in your life? Do you need to pursue doing good and acting justly toward others?

Remember, while sin breaks God’s heart, he continually offers forgiveness and grace to those who will repent. He stands ready to redeem what was lost!

EXPANDED STUDY HELPS

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, some groups are beginning to meet in person as well as online.  The Bible study helps have been modified in order to provide opportunities for both venues. There will still be more verbal based learning; however, ideas will be provided in order to engage groups more when meeting in person. The ideas could also be modified and used for online discussion as well.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE

The ideas give you a suggested "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.

August 30: Relational Investments

This is my love, and this is my friend is how Song of Songs 5:16 describes the love between Shulammite (Solomon's wife) and King Solomon. What do you think is required in order for a relationship to be described in this manner? This session, Relational Investment, will give you insight into investing wisely in relationships, especially the marriage relationship and your relationship with Christ.

Can you think of something that you had to work hard at obtaining? Perhaps it was a job, a position, a promotion, a house, or perhaps it was a relationship. Once you obtained it, did the hard work end? Of course not. If it was a job, you probably had to work harder in order to be successful. Or, in the case of a house, we all know that once you work hard to purchase a house you have to work even harder in order to keep the house in good shape. 

It’s no different when it comes to relationships, especially the marriage relationship. The work doesn’t stop with the wedding; it only begins. Every stage of life and situation you face together requires that you work hard to keep your relationship strong and vibrant.

This is equally true with your relationship with Christ. Salvation is only the beginning of a lifelong and eternal relationship that should be invested in daily so that your love for Him can grow and so that you can realize more fully the love He has for you.

The final passage of the session focuses on Shulammite describing her husband, Solomon, in Song of Songs 5:10-16. Her description is based on her love for him. 

Just as Shulammite lovingly describes her husband, the hymn, "Beautiful Savior" by Christiansen describes Jesus as our Beautiful Savior. It gives us a glimpse into the kind of words that  express the love we should have for Jesus Christ. Here are the words to that hymn: 

Beautiful Savior,

King of Creation,

Son of God and Son of Man!

Truly I'd love Thee,

Truly I'd serve Thee,

Light of my soul, my Joy, my Crown.

Fair are the meadows,

Fair are the woodlands,

Robed in flowers of blooming spring;

Jesus is fairer,

Jesus is purer;

He makes our sorrowing spirit sing.

Beautiful Savior,

Lord of the nations,

Son of God and Son of Man!

Glory and honor,

Praise, adoration,

Now and forevermore be Thine,

Now and forevermore be Thine!

I pray this hymn helps you understand the love for Jesus Christ that should be growing in our hearts.

I want you to consider the way you are using wisdom to strengthen your marriage, family, and your relationship with Christ. After this session, spend time in prayer offering thanksgiving to God for creating you for a relationship with others and with Him. Pray that God will lead you to protect your relationships in both word and action. Thank Him for the gift of love He provided through His Son, Jesus Christ.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE

The ideas give you a suggested "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.

August 23: Relational Foundations

Do you remember anything about your elementary days? What about the first crush you had? Did you ever ask a friend to pass a note asking the question similar to this, “Do you love me? Check yes or no?” It all sounds silly today, but at the time that was something very special, unless of course the person checked “no”! When we become adults, we realize that relationships are a little more complicated especially since we live in a culture that doesn’t necessarily view relationships in the same way Christians might. Song of Songs (Solomon) gives us some incredible wisdom about Relational Foundations. This session will focus on three vital actions for maintaining healthy relationships.

There are only two sessions left in the “Living Wisely in a Foolish World” study. The study will take us to another Bible book that God led Solomon to write – the Song of Songs (Solomon). Both sessions will focus on building healthy relationships. Because healthy relationships matter to the Lord, we must become wise in how we invest in relationships.  This session's passage provides three actions for building healthy relationships, especially between a husband and wife. Here are the actions:

• First, we should PROTECT OUR RELATIONSHIPS - Song of Songs 2:15
• Second, MUTUAL COMMITMENT is needed in order to sustain healthy relationships - Song of Songs 2:16-17
• Third, we should PRACTICE RESTRAINT - Song of Songs 3:1-5

These are explained further in the downloadable guide. As you study or lead a study, consider these actions:

• On a scale of one to five, with one being little attention and five being a lot of attention, evaluate your relationship with your spouse (if married) and your relationship with Christ using the three actions – Protecting the Relationship, Mutual Commitment, and Practicing Restraint. 
• Based on your own evaluation, determine two actions you could take to strengthen your marriage relationship and/or your relationship with Christ.

A Fun Song About Young Love

This song is referenced in the study so if you want to enjoy a blast from the past and love country music, check out George Straits song about young love that grows into an old and vibrant love - https://youtu.be/NHxS8wlDngI

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE

The ideas give you a suggested "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.

August 16: Finding Honor

Are you a people watcher? I love to observe people, whether it be a mom or a dad talking with their children as they walk together, a group of adults enjoying some time together at a local park, an individual as they stroll down a path, or a young couple who are in love interacting in a restaurant. Most of us go through our days, carrying out our tasks, and never thinking that others might be observing our lives. Yet we must understand that each of us has someone who is observing our life and taking cues from how we act. If we are growing in godly wisdom, then we will be honored by our noble character. This is how the study of Proverbs 31 will help us as we focus on Finding Honor.

The book of Proverbs ends appropriately with the author sharing his observations of a godly and wise wife as she goes about her daily routines. We can learn quite a deal about the honor that comes from living a wise and godly life as we observe how the author describe his observations.

As you look at Proverbs 31:10-16 and Proverbs 31:23-31,  imagine you are watching a godly wife and mom as she goes about her weekly routine. As you read about her attributes, examine your own life and consider whether you are a person of noble character (Proverbs 31:10). Here are the attributes from these passages that describe a person of noble character:

• Trustworthy - Proverbs 31:11
• Good - Proverbs 31:12
• Diligent - Proverbs 31:13-16
• Bring Respect - Proverbs 31:23
• Industrious - Proverbs 31:24
• Steady - Proverbs 31:25
• Will be Honored - Proverbs 31:28-29
• Fear the Lord - Proverbs 31:30-31

It seems we have a shortage of people in general who reflect noble characteristics today. They seem to be as rare as the precious stones and jewels described in Proverbs 31:10. Help your group to use these character traits to evaluate their own character. Challenge them to look for ways this week to honor other believers and family members who demonstrate a noble character.

 DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE

The ideas give you a suggested "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.

August 9: Accepting Discipline

Did you ever receive discipline growing up that you felt was inappropriate, unfair, or too harsh? How did you respond? How does that shape your view of discipline today? Accepting discipline will be the focus for this session of Explore the Bible.

Proverbs 29:2-3 provides the two environments in which godly discipline will be discussed -- the community and the home. It states:

When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, 

but when the wicked rule, people groan. 

A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, 

but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.  (CSB)

Imagine living in a community that is heavily influenced by wise Christian leaders including godly church leaders, godly parents, and godly government officials. Those leaders unashamedly demonstrate their Christian faith and they act justly and live wisely. Verse 2 tells us that, in this setting, the people in the community rejoice!

However, when wicked leaders are placed over a community, the outcome is not the same. Instead of rejoicing, the people who live in their shadow find themselves groaning over their predicament. People are troubled as they observe social and moral values being corrupted by the views of the godless leaders. Wicked leaders will refuse to be disciplined and they are unjust in the ways they administer discipline to others.

Godly discipline is not only vital for the community, but it is vital for the home. Verse 3 leads us to think specifically about the home as it describes the joy that a man who loves wisdom will bring his father. Imagine watching your child blossom into a Christian leader in his or her home, church, and community. Imagine observing them using God’s wisdom in order to be the light of Christ in a dark, broken world. This proverb points out that this kind of response to godly discipline in the home will bring joy!

However, this isn’t always the outcome parents experience. If a child is stiff-necked and refuses the discipline of God or the parents, then the family can be torn apart. The child’s self-indulgence will put them on the path of satisfying their lusts. The expression of lust described in verse 3 happens to refer to prostitutes. Of course, lust takes a wide range of forms, but its outcome always takes the shape of destruction. Entire family fortunes can be wasted on a self-absorbed child’s foolish indulgences.

Despite these negative outcomes, there is an optimistic future for God’s people who have been made righteous because they placed their trust in Him. They will flourish, and as a result, the people in their community and family will rejoice. The resolve to live in a way that pleases the Lord emanates from a genuine love for His wisdom.

The downloadable study and the video Bible study will expand on all that Proverbs 29 has to say regarding godly discipline and it results for both the community and the home.

DOWNLOADABLE STUDY GUIDE
The ideas give you a "script" for teaching online or sharing via email.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.

August 2: Staying Sober

Do you like snakes? I grew up next to a lake in Florida. It was not uncommon to open the front door and discover a water moccasin coiled up on the welcome mat. I promise you, I didn’t reach down to pet it; nor did I welcome it into our house. While most of us would never willingly touch a poisonous snake, we do struggle with staying away from substances and practices that could “bite” us.  In this week's  session, Staying Sober, Solomon refers to two things that he says bite like a snake and sting like a viper (Proverbs 23:32). He gives us wisdom regarding allowing something other than God to control our lives.

Solomon begins with a strong warning regarding envying those who don’t seem to get hurt by “playing with snakes.” He warns his son in Proverbs 23:17-18: Don’t let your heart envy sinners; instead, always fear the Lord. For then you will have a future, and your hope will not be dashed. (CSB)

This is the first step we all should take when considering the dangers of any practice that is questionable. The practice might look appealing and you might envy the visible outcomes of others who have participated. In an effort to scratch the itch of your envy, you may choose to take steps toward experiencing what they seem to enjoy. Such a temptation will wreak havoc on your life both physically and spiritually. We should place our hope in the Lord. As Solomon states in verse 18, Hope in Him will never be dashed!

On the heels of this instruction, Solomon transitions to the destruction that comes through two apparent practices that were prevalent then and are obviously prevalent today as well – drunkenness and gluttony. Proverbs 23:19-21 and Proverbs 23:29-35 will deal with these two practices.

The downloadable teaching helps and video Bible study provide an overview of how to avoid being controlled by these two practices.

DOWNLOADABLE TEACHING IDEAS
The ideas give you a "script" for teaching online or sharing via email. This week's helps include a suggested humorous video you can send to your group in advance.

Download Word Version                   Download PDF Version

VIDEO SESSION

Consider sharing this link with your group if you are unable to meet online, or share it with your church members who aren't connected to a group.