1 Cor. 1-3
Paul gives his introduction of himself. He goes into talking about being thankful of our Lord and others around us. He goes deeper talking about divisions in the church and asks if the body of Christ is divided and how than should a church be divided.
Imagination Question: Who are you thankful for?
Critical Question: If it’s in the Bible about division in the church and it is said to be wrong, why do you think there is still so much division?
1 Cor. 4-6
Paul talks about how lawsuits are of the wicked and it only condemns our brother. We are taught to flee from sexual immortality and that it is wrong. We are also to expel our immoral brother; whoever keeps us from fully glorifying God to disregard from our lives.
Imagination Question: How many of your friends are keeping you from glorifying God?
Critical Question: Do you flee from things that God does not approve of?
1 Cor. 7-9
We learn that we should stay celibate and be a bride to Christ. However, if we can’t, He would rather we marry than be tempted with desires. We should not sacrifice idols much less sacrifice food to idols for we should only idolize God.
Imagination Question: What if 1 Cor. 7 didn’t exist?
Critical Question: If God loves babies (said in Psalms and Acts), why does he not want us to get married to reproduce babies?
1 Cor. 10-13
We learn this: “Do not be idolaters, we should not commit sexual immorality, and we should not test Christ and do not grumble.” Paul talks about the Lord’s super and how we should accept communion. One of the most famous chapters of the bible, 13, talks about love being a beautiful thing and not to be taken for granted.
Imagination Question: If you are in love, do you follow chapter 13?
Critical Question: How and why do you accept communion?
1 Cor. 14-16
If you prophesy about someone to make sure that that person knows and you pray blessings to them. We learn about speaking tongues and to do it right in the eyes of God. To be careful about speaking tongues to not scare the unbelievers. When we come together we should honor God by worshiping him in an orderly manner. We need to remember what death of Christ means to us by remembering that all is forgiven – Pauls says that he of all people should not be an apostle because he persecuted the church but he is what he is by the grace of God.
Imagination Question: Are you a Paul?
Critical Question: What is your take on speaking in tongues?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Acts and Romans
Acts 1-3
The book is opened by Luke explaining to wait for the Promise of the Father. It is explained that Matthias is the replacement of Judas who betrayed Jesus. The Holy spirit comes at Pentacost and Peter addresses the other 11 disciples. There was a fellowship of believers who all met to celebrate their belief in Jesus. A man comes to pass Peter and John who is lame. Peter heals him of his woe. Peter speaks to the people who still question God to pledge their full faith in him.
Imagination Question: Why Matthias?
Critical Question: Following Jesus crucifixion would you still wait for the Promise of the Father?
Acts 4-6
Peter and John were arrested because they were sharing the news of Jesus being raised from the dead. The believers pray for Peter and John once they are released from Jail and the believers share their possessions. Ananias and Sapphira are introduced as selling property but keeping some money for their own. Peter calls them both out and they both fall dead. The apostles continue to heal and they continue to be persecuted speaking of the Lord. Gamaliel explains that if they kill these two men they will be accomplishing nothing whether they are right or wrong about the Lord.
Imagination Question: Wouldn’t it be a sight to see two people drop dead after being called out on their unfaithfulness?
Critical Question: Do you think Gamaliel was secretly on John and Peter’s team?
Acts 7-9
Steven speaks to the Sanhedrin about God, they disagree and they have him killed by stoning which Saul approved. The Lord appears to Saul and he is responsive and listens to what the Lord says, this being the beginning of his conversion.
Imagination Question: Why stoning to kill Steven?
Critical Question: Why did Jesus call Saul to go to Ananias?
Acts 10-12
Jesus comes to Cornelius in the night and tells him to send for Peter. Cornelius explains that Jesus is opening his eyes to what Peter is doing but still disagrees on some things. Peter explains that he is doing the work of the Lord and baptism is vital. Herrod was immediately killed after not giving praise to God in a public address and Saul and Barnabus are sent out from Jerusalem.
Imagination Question: Why do think Cornelius is still disagreeing after being told by Jesus to call Peter?
Critical Question: Do you think Herrod’s death was too harsh
Acts 22-24
Paul explains to the people how his transformation took place. The citizens aren’t buying it and are saying that he isn’t worthy to live. Paul is gathered by the Sanhedrin to find out what he is doing exactly, he is dismissed so they can assemble and discuss. There was a plot to have Paul killed but is transported to Caesarea.
Imagination Question: Wouldn’t it take a lot of guts to explain to the people that you had a transformation in Christ after being such a monster by killing, etc?
Critical Question: Why do you think the Sanhedrin dismiss Paul so quickly?
Acts 25-28
Pauls trial before Festus, Festus consults King Agrippa, Paul before Agrippa. Paul talks to Agrippa about his claims from Jesus. Agrippa announces that he has done nothing that needs such drastic punishment as death. Paul than sails to Rome but encounters a great storm and becomes ship wrecked. Paul recovers and figures out another way and makes his way to Rome where he preaches under guard.
Imagination Question: Why Agrippa?
Critical Question: Would you have as much faith as Paul to continue after becoming shipwrecked?
Romans 1-3
Paul’s introduction to teach that our righteousness comes by faith in Jesus Christ apart from what we can do to earn it. Paul explains how the Jews and Gentiles are guilty before God but explains the righteousness of the law was powerless to give, God did by sending Jesus. Faith comes to all who believe in Jesus apart from the law.
Imagination Question: Why do you think Paul writes this book?
Critical Question: Do you think faith comes to all who believe in Jesus apart from the law?
Romans 4-6
4 is proof that faith is the means for justification. Paul refers to the Old Testament who were justified by faith and not by their works. God did not spare his son, but graciously gave him for us to undo what Adam did in the garden. Death came through one man's sin, but life came more abundantly in every way through the gift of Jesus. Paul continues through Jesus we received God’s gift of eternal life.
Imagination Question: What if we didn’t have God’s gift of eternal life?
Critical Question: What if Death didn’t come through man’s sin?
Romans 7-9
Goes into detail how we are not slaves or in bondage, free to belong to another. We may struggle in sin but we have no obligation to it. We need to live by the spirit and bear good fruit to nurture. Hope is demonstrated because we have assurance by God that nothing will separate us from His love. Jesus Christ saves nothing else sufficient to his own children if we call upon him.
Imagination Question: What if sin didn’t exist?
Critical Question: Where would you be without the Hope and promise of God?
Romans 10-12
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” God’s plan includes bestowing mercy upon all mankind. We are encouraged to be living sacrifices in view of the mercy we have received in Christ Jesus in which we do by renewing our minds to the truth of God’s word. This is a call to live a life of peace, faithfully serving the Lord in all things and overcoming evil in the world.
Imagination Question: Are you grateful to have God’s mercy?
Critical Question: Why do you think it is important that Paul writes, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” when it is implied a lot throughout this book?
Romans 13-16
We are to submit to authorities and to pay respect where it is due, to awake and serve the Lord showing we are in included in the light of the Gospel. We are to consider all we do and if it brings glory to the Lord. We are to take the encouragement from the scriptures and Christ as our example in how we live accepting one another. Now it is our job to share it with others. We are reminded that Satan will soon be crushed under their feet and that His gospel is able to hold them until the day of Jesus.
Imagination Question: What if we don’t share with others?
Critical Question: That last sentence, did it give you chills and make you happy?
The book is opened by Luke explaining to wait for the Promise of the Father. It is explained that Matthias is the replacement of Judas who betrayed Jesus. The Holy spirit comes at Pentacost and Peter addresses the other 11 disciples. There was a fellowship of believers who all met to celebrate their belief in Jesus. A man comes to pass Peter and John who is lame. Peter heals him of his woe. Peter speaks to the people who still question God to pledge their full faith in him.
Imagination Question: Why Matthias?
Critical Question: Following Jesus crucifixion would you still wait for the Promise of the Father?
Acts 4-6
Peter and John were arrested because they were sharing the news of Jesus being raised from the dead. The believers pray for Peter and John once they are released from Jail and the believers share their possessions. Ananias and Sapphira are introduced as selling property but keeping some money for their own. Peter calls them both out and they both fall dead. The apostles continue to heal and they continue to be persecuted speaking of the Lord. Gamaliel explains that if they kill these two men they will be accomplishing nothing whether they are right or wrong about the Lord.
Imagination Question: Wouldn’t it be a sight to see two people drop dead after being called out on their unfaithfulness?
Critical Question: Do you think Gamaliel was secretly on John and Peter’s team?
Acts 7-9
Steven speaks to the Sanhedrin about God, they disagree and they have him killed by stoning which Saul approved. The Lord appears to Saul and he is responsive and listens to what the Lord says, this being the beginning of his conversion.
Imagination Question: Why stoning to kill Steven?
Critical Question: Why did Jesus call Saul to go to Ananias?
Acts 10-12
Jesus comes to Cornelius in the night and tells him to send for Peter. Cornelius explains that Jesus is opening his eyes to what Peter is doing but still disagrees on some things. Peter explains that he is doing the work of the Lord and baptism is vital. Herrod was immediately killed after not giving praise to God in a public address and Saul and Barnabus are sent out from Jerusalem.
Imagination Question: Why do think Cornelius is still disagreeing after being told by Jesus to call Peter?
Critical Question: Do you think Herrod’s death was too harsh
Acts 22-24
Paul explains to the people how his transformation took place. The citizens aren’t buying it and are saying that he isn’t worthy to live. Paul is gathered by the Sanhedrin to find out what he is doing exactly, he is dismissed so they can assemble and discuss. There was a plot to have Paul killed but is transported to Caesarea.
Imagination Question: Wouldn’t it take a lot of guts to explain to the people that you had a transformation in Christ after being such a monster by killing, etc?
Critical Question: Why do you think the Sanhedrin dismiss Paul so quickly?
Acts 25-28
Pauls trial before Festus, Festus consults King Agrippa, Paul before Agrippa. Paul talks to Agrippa about his claims from Jesus. Agrippa announces that he has done nothing that needs such drastic punishment as death. Paul than sails to Rome but encounters a great storm and becomes ship wrecked. Paul recovers and figures out another way and makes his way to Rome where he preaches under guard.
Imagination Question: Why Agrippa?
Critical Question: Would you have as much faith as Paul to continue after becoming shipwrecked?
Romans 1-3
Paul’s introduction to teach that our righteousness comes by faith in Jesus Christ apart from what we can do to earn it. Paul explains how the Jews and Gentiles are guilty before God but explains the righteousness of the law was powerless to give, God did by sending Jesus. Faith comes to all who believe in Jesus apart from the law.
Imagination Question: Why do you think Paul writes this book?
Critical Question: Do you think faith comes to all who believe in Jesus apart from the law?
Romans 4-6
4 is proof that faith is the means for justification. Paul refers to the Old Testament who were justified by faith and not by their works. God did not spare his son, but graciously gave him for us to undo what Adam did in the garden. Death came through one man's sin, but life came more abundantly in every way through the gift of Jesus. Paul continues through Jesus we received God’s gift of eternal life.
Imagination Question: What if we didn’t have God’s gift of eternal life?
Critical Question: What if Death didn’t come through man’s sin?
Romans 7-9
Goes into detail how we are not slaves or in bondage, free to belong to another. We may struggle in sin but we have no obligation to it. We need to live by the spirit and bear good fruit to nurture. Hope is demonstrated because we have assurance by God that nothing will separate us from His love. Jesus Christ saves nothing else sufficient to his own children if we call upon him.
Imagination Question: What if sin didn’t exist?
Critical Question: Where would you be without the Hope and promise of God?
Romans 10-12
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” God’s plan includes bestowing mercy upon all mankind. We are encouraged to be living sacrifices in view of the mercy we have received in Christ Jesus in which we do by renewing our minds to the truth of God’s word. This is a call to live a life of peace, faithfully serving the Lord in all things and overcoming evil in the world.
Imagination Question: Are you grateful to have God’s mercy?
Critical Question: Why do you think it is important that Paul writes, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” when it is implied a lot throughout this book?
Romans 13-16
We are to submit to authorities and to pay respect where it is due, to awake and serve the Lord showing we are in included in the light of the Gospel. We are to consider all we do and if it brings glory to the Lord. We are to take the encouragement from the scriptures and Christ as our example in how we live accepting one another. Now it is our job to share it with others. We are reminded that Satan will soon be crushed under their feet and that His gospel is able to hold them until the day of Jesus.
Imagination Question: What if we don’t share with others?
Critical Question: That last sentence, did it give you chills and make you happy?
John
John 1-3
The beginning talks about the Word being God and how Jesus was with God in the beginning. This is the account of John’s witness to Jesus’ testimony. Jesus’ first disciples are formed. The first of Jesus’ miracles turning water to wine. Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being born again and his confusion. John the Baptist shares his testimony.
Imagination Question: How is this gospel already different from the others?
Critical Question: The Gospel of John closely resembles the beginning of Genesis. Why is that?
John 4-6
Jesus forms a relationship with a Samaritan woman at the well and also heals the official’s son. The Healing at the Pool on a Sabbath with causes controversy. The second Passover in Galilee. Jesus feeds the 5,000 and walks on water and discourses how he is the bread of life.
Imagination Question: What if Jesus didn’t talk to the Samaritan woman?
Critical Question: How would you react to Jesus walking on water?
John 7-9
Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, he teaches in the temple. The reactions to what Jesus is doing is quite diverse, some people happy and others mad. Jesus is described as the light of the world and the truth. Jesus heals a man born blind on the Sabbath near the Pool of Siloam which causes great controversy with the Pharisees.
Imagination Question: Would you be happy or mad at Jesus if you were a child of a Pharisee?
Critical Question: If Jesus came to you in passing and saw you suffering, what would you ask him to heal you of at that very moment?
John 10-13
In chapter 10 the Feast of Dedication takes place and Jesus retreats across the Jordan River. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead at Bethany. The Final plot of Jesus takes place and Jesus retreats to Ephraim. The final anointing at Bethany. The Last Supper takes place where Jesus discusses what the communion is, he washes his disciples feet, foretelling of Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s Denial.
Imagination Question: Why do you think that verse 11:38 is only two words: Jesus wept?
Critical Question: How would you react to seeing a man raised from the dead?
John 14-17
Chapter 14, 15 and 16 are known as “The Farewell Discourses”. In 14 Jesus talks about not being fearful and to find peace because he promises peace. 15 he talks about being vines and branches and not to bear anything that is not in glory to God, to remember to Love and not hate. 16 he talks about Joy and prayer. One of the most noted things in John is Jesus’ Great prayer in 17.
Imagination Question: Did Pilate feel any remorse or know any better?
Critical Question: Do you take comfort in Jesus’ promises?
John 18-21
Jesus is arrested in the Garden by Pilate. Peter denies Jesus and stands behind him. Jesus has trial in which he is crucified sent to death and buried. Jesus’ tomb is found empty and the Lord is risen and is revealed to Mary Magdalene, to the disciples and to Thomas. Peter’s love and the beloved disciple.
Imagination Question: What do you think Mary’s face looked like seeing Jesus after being killed?
Critical Question: Who do you think is Jesus’ beloved disciple?
The beginning talks about the Word being God and how Jesus was with God in the beginning. This is the account of John’s witness to Jesus’ testimony. Jesus’ first disciples are formed. The first of Jesus’ miracles turning water to wine. Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being born again and his confusion. John the Baptist shares his testimony.
Imagination Question: How is this gospel already different from the others?
Critical Question: The Gospel of John closely resembles the beginning of Genesis. Why is that?
John 4-6
Jesus forms a relationship with a Samaritan woman at the well and also heals the official’s son. The Healing at the Pool on a Sabbath with causes controversy. The second Passover in Galilee. Jesus feeds the 5,000 and walks on water and discourses how he is the bread of life.
Imagination Question: What if Jesus didn’t talk to the Samaritan woman?
Critical Question: How would you react to Jesus walking on water?
John 7-9
Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, he teaches in the temple. The reactions to what Jesus is doing is quite diverse, some people happy and others mad. Jesus is described as the light of the world and the truth. Jesus heals a man born blind on the Sabbath near the Pool of Siloam which causes great controversy with the Pharisees.
Imagination Question: Would you be happy or mad at Jesus if you were a child of a Pharisee?
Critical Question: If Jesus came to you in passing and saw you suffering, what would you ask him to heal you of at that very moment?
John 10-13
In chapter 10 the Feast of Dedication takes place and Jesus retreats across the Jordan River. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead at Bethany. The Final plot of Jesus takes place and Jesus retreats to Ephraim. The final anointing at Bethany. The Last Supper takes place where Jesus discusses what the communion is, he washes his disciples feet, foretelling of Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s Denial.
Imagination Question: Why do you think that verse 11:38 is only two words: Jesus wept?
Critical Question: How would you react to seeing a man raised from the dead?
John 14-17
Chapter 14, 15 and 16 are known as “The Farewell Discourses”. In 14 Jesus talks about not being fearful and to find peace because he promises peace. 15 he talks about being vines and branches and not to bear anything that is not in glory to God, to remember to Love and not hate. 16 he talks about Joy and prayer. One of the most noted things in John is Jesus’ Great prayer in 17.
Imagination Question: Did Pilate feel any remorse or know any better?
Critical Question: Do you take comfort in Jesus’ promises?
John 18-21
Jesus is arrested in the Garden by Pilate. Peter denies Jesus and stands behind him. Jesus has trial in which he is crucified sent to death and buried. Jesus’ tomb is found empty and the Lord is risen and is revealed to Mary Magdalene, to the disciples and to Thomas. Peter’s love and the beloved disciple.
Imagination Question: What do you think Mary’s face looked like seeing Jesus after being killed?
Critical Question: Who do you think is Jesus’ beloved disciple?
Luke 6-End
Luke Ch. 6-9
Jesus is healing on the Sabbath day which is making the Pharisees very unhappy. John sends his disciples out to see if this man is, in fact, the Christ. His disciples confirm that it is He. A woman comes up to Jesus and washes his feet with her hair and perfume, Jesus tells her that she has been forgiven much. Jesus casts demons out of a man and into pigs. A woman grasped to Jesus and was immediately healed of her bleeding. Jesus fed the 5,000, predicted his betrayel.
Imagination Question: If Jesus didn’t heal on the Sabbath would the Pharisees be more on board with him being the Son of Man?
Critical Question: Why did the demons have to be cast into the pigs?
Luke Ch. 10-12
Jesus sent out 72 in pairs to heal and proclaim God’s kingdom. He illustrated the 2nd greatest commandment. He traveled home to find Martha worrisome. But Mary sat calm with Jesus. Jesus taught the disciples about prayer. Jesus warned the disciples about the hypocrisy and lies of the Pharisees.
Imagination Question: What if Mary and Martha had both been worried about one thing or another?
Critical Question: Why did Jesus send out 72, no more, no less?
Luke Ch. 13-15
Jesus warned that all would perish. Jesus once again healed on the Sabbath but this time He defended His works. He taught people about God’s kingdom. He didn’t get upset by Herod’s threat and mourned over Jerusalem. Jesus taught in Parable’s while healing at a Pharisee’s home on the Sabbath. His final parable was about a boy who returned to his father and his father being so rejoiced to see him.
Imagination Question: Why is the young boy returning to his father relevant in the bible?
Critical Question: If we all know that healing on the Sabbath is wrong in the eyes of the Pharisees why is it documented so much in the NT?
Luke Ch. 16-18
Jesus told of a certain rich man who enjoyed the good life but suffered for eternity and of a poor man, who lived at the rich man’s gates, who suffered during his life but was comforted in the afterlife. Jesus warned His disciples not to cause another to sin but to forgive anyone who sins against them but repents. Jesus told His disciples a parable about a woman who persistently pleaded for justice until she received it to illustrate the virtue of persistence in prayer.
Imagination Question: Did the rich man go to heaven or hell upon death?
Critical Question: Why is Jesus so adamant on demonstrating forgiveness?
Luke Ch. 19-21
Jesus rides to Jerusalem on a horse and the people are excited to see him. Jesus is remorseful because of the coming destruction. Drives out the sellers in the temple courts. Jesus observed the generous woman who gave to them temple all she had. Jesus warned his disciples of the coming persecution.
Imagination Question: Why is it important that Luke says the type of horse Jesus road up in?
Critical Question: How would you feel learning about your persecution to come?
Luke Ch. 22-24
Judas betrayed Jesus because Satan enters him. Jesus explains the wine and the bread as his body and blood. Peter betrays Jesus. Jesus is mocked and beaten and questioned. Jesus was crucified. Rose from the read and appears to two of his disciples. He ascends to heaven.
Imagination Question: Thinking on this time, being in Judas and Peters position do you think you would ever betray Jesus?
Critical Question: How would you react to Jesus raising after his crucifixtion?
Jesus is healing on the Sabbath day which is making the Pharisees very unhappy. John sends his disciples out to see if this man is, in fact, the Christ. His disciples confirm that it is He. A woman comes up to Jesus and washes his feet with her hair and perfume, Jesus tells her that she has been forgiven much. Jesus casts demons out of a man and into pigs. A woman grasped to Jesus and was immediately healed of her bleeding. Jesus fed the 5,000, predicted his betrayel.
Imagination Question: If Jesus didn’t heal on the Sabbath would the Pharisees be more on board with him being the Son of Man?
Critical Question: Why did the demons have to be cast into the pigs?
Luke Ch. 10-12
Jesus sent out 72 in pairs to heal and proclaim God’s kingdom. He illustrated the 2nd greatest commandment. He traveled home to find Martha worrisome. But Mary sat calm with Jesus. Jesus taught the disciples about prayer. Jesus warned the disciples about the hypocrisy and lies of the Pharisees.
Imagination Question: What if Mary and Martha had both been worried about one thing or another?
Critical Question: Why did Jesus send out 72, no more, no less?
Luke Ch. 13-15
Jesus warned that all would perish. Jesus once again healed on the Sabbath but this time He defended His works. He taught people about God’s kingdom. He didn’t get upset by Herod’s threat and mourned over Jerusalem. Jesus taught in Parable’s while healing at a Pharisee’s home on the Sabbath. His final parable was about a boy who returned to his father and his father being so rejoiced to see him.
Imagination Question: Why is the young boy returning to his father relevant in the bible?
Critical Question: If we all know that healing on the Sabbath is wrong in the eyes of the Pharisees why is it documented so much in the NT?
Luke Ch. 16-18
Jesus told of a certain rich man who enjoyed the good life but suffered for eternity and of a poor man, who lived at the rich man’s gates, who suffered during his life but was comforted in the afterlife. Jesus warned His disciples not to cause another to sin but to forgive anyone who sins against them but repents. Jesus told His disciples a parable about a woman who persistently pleaded for justice until she received it to illustrate the virtue of persistence in prayer.
Imagination Question: Did the rich man go to heaven or hell upon death?
Critical Question: Why is Jesus so adamant on demonstrating forgiveness?
Luke Ch. 19-21
Jesus rides to Jerusalem on a horse and the people are excited to see him. Jesus is remorseful because of the coming destruction. Drives out the sellers in the temple courts. Jesus observed the generous woman who gave to them temple all she had. Jesus warned his disciples of the coming persecution.
Imagination Question: Why is it important that Luke says the type of horse Jesus road up in?
Critical Question: How would you feel learning about your persecution to come?
Luke Ch. 22-24
Judas betrayed Jesus because Satan enters him. Jesus explains the wine and the bread as his body and blood. Peter betrays Jesus. Jesus is mocked and beaten and questioned. Jesus was crucified. Rose from the read and appears to two of his disciples. He ascends to heaven.
Imagination Question: Thinking on this time, being in Judas and Peters position do you think you would ever betray Jesus?
Critical Question: How would you react to Jesus raising after his crucifixtion?
Monday, October 17, 2011
Getting Caught Up: Matthew 13-Luke 6
Matthew 13-15
Jesus continues to do miraculous things in these chapters. He heals a Canaanite girl, feeds many totally a number of 9,000 people from the smallest of food items. Jesus astounds his followers when he and peter walk on the water. And even through all this, Jesus is still rejected and not accepted in his own country.
Imagination Question: Was Peter thrilled about his encounter of walking on the water with Jesus and prideful about it? Was he humble and in awe of this glorious moment?
Critical Question: What was the crowd so satisfied (Matt. 15:37)? Eating the food or Jesus’ miracle?
Matthew 16-18
The Pharisees challenge Jesus and ask for a sign from Heaven. Jesus told them about the skies and what they will poses and left. Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus also predicts his death. In 18 Jesus teaches the people about giving and offering forgiveness. He really dives into his love for the youth and preaches anyone who misguides the little ones they should hold a milestone from their necks and be sent to drown.
Imagination Question: How would you feel if someone just predicted their death? Do you think Jesus was being looked at like, “What an odd fellow!”?
Critical Question: When Jesus says, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea, (Matt. 18:6) is that really an appropriate thing for Jesus to say?
Matthew 19-21
Jesus speaks on divorce in 19. It further goes into how the children are coming and praising Jesus. Jesus, in 20, predicts his death once more and heals two men who were blind. In 21, Jesus walks into the temple and sees how it has been turned into a market and men are selling things and people are buying. This infuriates Jesus. Furthermore, Jesus’ authority gets questioned by the chief priests.
Imagination Question: If Jesus never spoke on divorce, I wonder how much more divorces would be taking place compared to now.
Critical Question: Jesus gets questioned about his role numerous times, by asking him this do the Pharisees and chief priests think he is going to change his answer?
Matthew 22-24
Jesus tells us that in heaven we will be together as angels and marriage won’t be there. But be united as brothers and sisters. He also teachers us the greatest commandment and second greatest commandment. Jesus predicts the destruction of Jerusalem and his coming again and how we do not and will not know the time and hour when the coming of Jesus will occur and that he will come like a thief in the night.
Imagination Question: Do you ever think about, in heaven, that your parents are going to be equals to you and your brother/sister? Very interesting thought.
Critical Question: What would love be like if Jesus didn’t tell us the greatest commandment?
Matthew 25-28
This is where the big time negative starts to happen at the end of Jesus’ life. Jesus is betrayed by Judas and is left being denied from Peter and Judas hangs himself. When Pilate asks the people who they would rather see released, they all say Barabbas, and so he is released. Jesus has the last supper and tells his disciples about communion and how we should take it. Jesus is crucified and returns from the dead.
Imagination Question: What would have happened if Barabbas wasn’t released and Jesus was?
Critical Question: How would you feel if two people whom you loved so much (i.e. Jesus to Judas and Peter) betrayed and completely turned their back on you?
Mark 1-3
The Gospels all share a great similarity so this book opens with Jesus being baptized and being tempted by Satan when fasting for 40 days/nights. Jesus calls on his disciples and heals many and appoints 12. Jesus instructs his followers about the Devil and the wickedness that comes from him in things such as blasphemy. We also learn about Jesus’ brothers and his mother.
Imagination Question: In reality Jesus did not need to be baptized, but insisted on it. How would people have responded if he didn’t get baptized?
Critical Question: Why was it so important to teach about the devil and blasphemy?
Mark 4-6
This is when Jesus begins teaching on parables of sower, growing crops and mustard seed. Jesus calms the sea in his disciples doubts. Jesus continues his miraculous works casting demons from a man into pigs, raising Jairus’ daughter from death and healing a woman’s blood flow. Through all this Jesus is still not accepted and goes to rest after John the Baptist is beheaded. Jesus feeds the 500 and walks on the water.
Imagination Question: Why pigs?
Critical Question: Why was it so important to teach on parables?
Mark 7-9
The Pharisees being knit-picky commanded the expectations of men after seeing them eat with their hands and explained their need to be more proper. Jesus feeds the 4000, heals the Canaanite girl, walks on the water. Jesus predicts his death once and predicts it once more and what will happen when he rises from the dead.
Imagination Question: What if the Pharisees just didn’t exist?
Critical Question: How would you react if you saw a man walk on the water?
Mark 10-12
Jesus continues to heal and teach. He teaches on marriage and divorce, sacrificing, young rulers, more on parables and more. Jesus comes to Jerusalem and curses a fig tree, enters the chapel and see’s business men conducting business and selling merchandise. He goes into detail about marriage on earth and marriage in heaven. He teaches about the greatest commandements.
Imagination Question: What would Jesus have done had their not been any marketing in the church?
Critical Question: Why do you think it is so important teaches speaks so much on marriage?
Mark 13-16
We start off by reading about the destruction of the temples and the signs of the coming of the end. Jesus talks about his coming again and how the time and hour is unknown but we should all be prepared for the coming of Christ. Jesus gets anointed at Bethany. Jesus has the last supper with his disciples and also predicts Peters denial. Jesus gets arrested and set to trial and Peter disowns Jesus. Jesus is sent to be killed and the soldiers mock Jesus. Jesus gets crucified and rises from the dead for unsettled business.
Imagination Question: Do the soldiers realize how little they look mocking my daddy Jesus?
Critical Question: Would anything would have changed if Peter did not betray and disown Jesus?
Luke 1-3
Angel tells Elizabeth of John’s birth and also Jesus is born to the virgin Mary. Mary goes and visits Elizabeth, near this time she gives birth to John. Jesus is than born and gets dedicated at the temple and circumcised. They both grow up. John speaks to people about the way and they repent and he then starts baptizing.
Imagination Question: (Men) How would you have reacted if your [virgin girlfriend at the time] got pregnant and claimed to be impregnated from the Holy Spirit?
Critical Question: What if Joseph did leave Mary?
Luke 4-6
Jesus fasts in the desert for forty days/nights and gets tempted by Satan but Jesus disregards him. Jesus heals demon possessed man and heals others and continues to preach to his followers. Jesus calls Peter, John and James and then calls the rest of his disciples some time later.
Imagination Question: What if Satan hadn’t been in the desert?
Critical Question: Did Peter already have doubts when Jesus appointed him?
Jesus continues to do miraculous things in these chapters. He heals a Canaanite girl, feeds many totally a number of 9,000 people from the smallest of food items. Jesus astounds his followers when he and peter walk on the water. And even through all this, Jesus is still rejected and not accepted in his own country.
Imagination Question: Was Peter thrilled about his encounter of walking on the water with Jesus and prideful about it? Was he humble and in awe of this glorious moment?
Critical Question: What was the crowd so satisfied (Matt. 15:37)? Eating the food or Jesus’ miracle?
Matthew 16-18
The Pharisees challenge Jesus and ask for a sign from Heaven. Jesus told them about the skies and what they will poses and left. Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus also predicts his death. In 18 Jesus teaches the people about giving and offering forgiveness. He really dives into his love for the youth and preaches anyone who misguides the little ones they should hold a milestone from their necks and be sent to drown.
Imagination Question: How would you feel if someone just predicted their death? Do you think Jesus was being looked at like, “What an odd fellow!”?
Critical Question: When Jesus says, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea, (Matt. 18:6) is that really an appropriate thing for Jesus to say?
Matthew 19-21
Jesus speaks on divorce in 19. It further goes into how the children are coming and praising Jesus. Jesus, in 20, predicts his death once more and heals two men who were blind. In 21, Jesus walks into the temple and sees how it has been turned into a market and men are selling things and people are buying. This infuriates Jesus. Furthermore, Jesus’ authority gets questioned by the chief priests.
Imagination Question: If Jesus never spoke on divorce, I wonder how much more divorces would be taking place compared to now.
Critical Question: Jesus gets questioned about his role numerous times, by asking him this do the Pharisees and chief priests think he is going to change his answer?
Matthew 22-24
Jesus tells us that in heaven we will be together as angels and marriage won’t be there. But be united as brothers and sisters. He also teachers us the greatest commandment and second greatest commandment. Jesus predicts the destruction of Jerusalem and his coming again and how we do not and will not know the time and hour when the coming of Jesus will occur and that he will come like a thief in the night.
Imagination Question: Do you ever think about, in heaven, that your parents are going to be equals to you and your brother/sister? Very interesting thought.
Critical Question: What would love be like if Jesus didn’t tell us the greatest commandment?
Matthew 25-28
This is where the big time negative starts to happen at the end of Jesus’ life. Jesus is betrayed by Judas and is left being denied from Peter and Judas hangs himself. When Pilate asks the people who they would rather see released, they all say Barabbas, and so he is released. Jesus has the last supper and tells his disciples about communion and how we should take it. Jesus is crucified and returns from the dead.
Imagination Question: What would have happened if Barabbas wasn’t released and Jesus was?
Critical Question: How would you feel if two people whom you loved so much (i.e. Jesus to Judas and Peter) betrayed and completely turned their back on you?
Mark 1-3
The Gospels all share a great similarity so this book opens with Jesus being baptized and being tempted by Satan when fasting for 40 days/nights. Jesus calls on his disciples and heals many and appoints 12. Jesus instructs his followers about the Devil and the wickedness that comes from him in things such as blasphemy. We also learn about Jesus’ brothers and his mother.
Imagination Question: In reality Jesus did not need to be baptized, but insisted on it. How would people have responded if he didn’t get baptized?
Critical Question: Why was it so important to teach about the devil and blasphemy?
Mark 4-6
This is when Jesus begins teaching on parables of sower, growing crops and mustard seed. Jesus calms the sea in his disciples doubts. Jesus continues his miraculous works casting demons from a man into pigs, raising Jairus’ daughter from death and healing a woman’s blood flow. Through all this Jesus is still not accepted and goes to rest after John the Baptist is beheaded. Jesus feeds the 500 and walks on the water.
Imagination Question: Why pigs?
Critical Question: Why was it so important to teach on parables?
Mark 7-9
The Pharisees being knit-picky commanded the expectations of men after seeing them eat with their hands and explained their need to be more proper. Jesus feeds the 4000, heals the Canaanite girl, walks on the water. Jesus predicts his death once and predicts it once more and what will happen when he rises from the dead.
Imagination Question: What if the Pharisees just didn’t exist?
Critical Question: How would you react if you saw a man walk on the water?
Mark 10-12
Jesus continues to heal and teach. He teaches on marriage and divorce, sacrificing, young rulers, more on parables and more. Jesus comes to Jerusalem and curses a fig tree, enters the chapel and see’s business men conducting business and selling merchandise. He goes into detail about marriage on earth and marriage in heaven. He teaches about the greatest commandements.
Imagination Question: What would Jesus have done had their not been any marketing in the church?
Critical Question: Why do you think it is so important teaches speaks so much on marriage?
Mark 13-16
We start off by reading about the destruction of the temples and the signs of the coming of the end. Jesus talks about his coming again and how the time and hour is unknown but we should all be prepared for the coming of Christ. Jesus gets anointed at Bethany. Jesus has the last supper with his disciples and also predicts Peters denial. Jesus gets arrested and set to trial and Peter disowns Jesus. Jesus is sent to be killed and the soldiers mock Jesus. Jesus gets crucified and rises from the dead for unsettled business.
Imagination Question: Do the soldiers realize how little they look mocking my daddy Jesus?
Critical Question: Would anything would have changed if Peter did not betray and disown Jesus?
Luke 1-3
Angel tells Elizabeth of John’s birth and also Jesus is born to the virgin Mary. Mary goes and visits Elizabeth, near this time she gives birth to John. Jesus is than born and gets dedicated at the temple and circumcised. They both grow up. John speaks to people about the way and they repent and he then starts baptizing.
Imagination Question: (Men) How would you have reacted if your [virgin girlfriend at the time] got pregnant and claimed to be impregnated from the Holy Spirit?
Critical Question: What if Joseph did leave Mary?
Luke 4-6
Jesus fasts in the desert for forty days/nights and gets tempted by Satan but Jesus disregards him. Jesus heals demon possessed man and heals others and continues to preach to his followers. Jesus calls Peter, John and James and then calls the rest of his disciples some time later.
Imagination Question: What if Satan hadn’t been in the desert?
Critical Question: Did Peter already have doubts when Jesus appointed him?
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Matthew - Chapter 10 through 12
Matthew 10
Jesus is telling his disciples to go out on behalf of Him and heal the people and spread the word of God. He tells them that they will be hated and scorned and even arrested. But when that time comes to just be overwhelmed by the father and He will give you the proper thing(s) to say. He says don’t be afraid, just go and do it for the glory of the Lord. I think that these disciples are awesome! They are probably confused as heck but they are listening to what Jesus has to say. We, as Christians, need to listen too. Just take a break and listen to what the Lord is telling us.
Matthew 11
It was at the end of Matthew starting at v. 25 when Jesus begins praising the Father in prayer, rejoicing and so peaceful that this chapter really touches me. He then declares no one knows the father except the son and no one knows the son except the father. He then says just to come who are burdened, week, troubled, etc. and He will help you overcome that obstacle. That is just so amazing! If you are reading this, how does that make you feel? I know that it is so awesome to see that our Jesus rejoices to His father and He tells us that he takes our burdens. I love our Lord!
Matthew 12
I love this chapter. The Pharisees just drive me insane. They are like 5 year olds nit-picking at every last thing. I just love how Jesus always has the right thing to say to them though. However, in his saying to them the Pharisees don’t like the rejection and the belittlement so they plot to kill Jesus. They say that Jesus is demon possessed and He is casting out the demons but Jesus turns that around and says basically that would be like Satan casting out demons. This would be creating no kingdom for Satan. I just adore how Jesus always has the right thing to say and the Pharisees just need to shut up.
Jesus is telling his disciples to go out on behalf of Him and heal the people and spread the word of God. He tells them that they will be hated and scorned and even arrested. But when that time comes to just be overwhelmed by the father and He will give you the proper thing(s) to say. He says don’t be afraid, just go and do it for the glory of the Lord. I think that these disciples are awesome! They are probably confused as heck but they are listening to what Jesus has to say. We, as Christians, need to listen too. Just take a break and listen to what the Lord is telling us.
Matthew 11
It was at the end of Matthew starting at v. 25 when Jesus begins praising the Father in prayer, rejoicing and so peaceful that this chapter really touches me. He then declares no one knows the father except the son and no one knows the son except the father. He then says just to come who are burdened, week, troubled, etc. and He will help you overcome that obstacle. That is just so amazing! If you are reading this, how does that make you feel? I know that it is so awesome to see that our Jesus rejoices to His father and He tells us that he takes our burdens. I love our Lord!
Matthew 12
I love this chapter. The Pharisees just drive me insane. They are like 5 year olds nit-picking at every last thing. I just love how Jesus always has the right thing to say to them though. However, in his saying to them the Pharisees don’t like the rejection and the belittlement so they plot to kill Jesus. They say that Jesus is demon possessed and He is casting out the demons but Jesus turns that around and says basically that would be like Satan casting out demons. This would be creating no kingdom for Satan. I just adore how Jesus always has the right thing to say and the Pharisees just need to shut up.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Matthew - Chapter 5 through 9
Chapter 5
This chapter really spoke to me. Jesus is said to be sitting at the mountain teaching his disciples about the things that have been said but what really should be now lived by. Things such as love your neighbor and hate you enemy; He says to love your enemy just the same. Jesus brings up commandments and explains how they are vital for salvation pretty much. I just love Jesus. He is so gracious in His teachings. One thing cool I found out is it’s a sin to be mad at someone! I am trying super hard now to not shed anger towards anyone. This chapter really teaches you LOVE is the movement. Just LOVE! (and praise Jesus)
Chapter 6
This chapter really spoke to me because Jesus is basically saying don’t worry what other people think about you. But more than that He is saying flat out DO NOT WORRY. It’s comforting to read this chapter because Jesus is saying that God will take care of us in our times of prayer, fasting, giving…that He will provide as long as we are not being boastful in our ways. I think that is really cool. Just take heart knowing that Jesus got your back! He won’t let anything bad happen to you as long as you stay faithful in your devotion to Him. Closing with this verse: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Is that not super comforting? I am so comforted reading that verse.
Chapter 7
I will just jump to my main thought and that is the ending. The crowds just heard Jesus speak about not being judgmental, to ask, seek, knock, learned about true and false prophets and disciples and the crowds are just in awe of His teachings. It is described that they were amazed because He taught as one with authority and not a teacher of the law. I think it is really cool that they were so taken in by His word. I just can’t help but thinking how amazing it would be to witness this all. Must have been just incredible.
Chapter 8
Jesus is healing people like crazy in this chapter! Where there is healing needed He is there. I love how people come to Him so humbly and in return humbly He heals their loved ones. However, until he gets to the demon-possessed men who test Jesus and He tells them to do what they recommend which lead to their death. Just like that Jesus goes from hero to zero and is asked to leave the town. People are dumb. That is my ultimate thought. Jesus did so much to heal the people in their community and that one thing which wasn’t His fault at all; He immediately becomes a bad guy.
Chapter 9
Don’t the Pharisees just tick you off sometimes? They are just so ignorant in their thoughts and views. Jesus is healing the blind, the mute, the demon possessed, the dead to live, etc. and the Pharisees say that it is by the prince of demons that drive out the demons. I just can’t help but feel they want to believe Jesus but their pride won’t let them which I think is ridiculous. I think that this is such a cool book of the New Testament so far. I love seeing how Jesus came to be and what He has to deal with and the amazing things He does.
This chapter really spoke to me. Jesus is said to be sitting at the mountain teaching his disciples about the things that have been said but what really should be now lived by. Things such as love your neighbor and hate you enemy; He says to love your enemy just the same. Jesus brings up commandments and explains how they are vital for salvation pretty much. I just love Jesus. He is so gracious in His teachings. One thing cool I found out is it’s a sin to be mad at someone! I am trying super hard now to not shed anger towards anyone. This chapter really teaches you LOVE is the movement. Just LOVE! (and praise Jesus)
Chapter 6
This chapter really spoke to me because Jesus is basically saying don’t worry what other people think about you. But more than that He is saying flat out DO NOT WORRY. It’s comforting to read this chapter because Jesus is saying that God will take care of us in our times of prayer, fasting, giving…that He will provide as long as we are not being boastful in our ways. I think that is really cool. Just take heart knowing that Jesus got your back! He won’t let anything bad happen to you as long as you stay faithful in your devotion to Him. Closing with this verse: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Is that not super comforting? I am so comforted reading that verse.
Chapter 7
I will just jump to my main thought and that is the ending. The crowds just heard Jesus speak about not being judgmental, to ask, seek, knock, learned about true and false prophets and disciples and the crowds are just in awe of His teachings. It is described that they were amazed because He taught as one with authority and not a teacher of the law. I think it is really cool that they were so taken in by His word. I just can’t help but thinking how amazing it would be to witness this all. Must have been just incredible.
Chapter 8
Jesus is healing people like crazy in this chapter! Where there is healing needed He is there. I love how people come to Him so humbly and in return humbly He heals their loved ones. However, until he gets to the demon-possessed men who test Jesus and He tells them to do what they recommend which lead to their death. Just like that Jesus goes from hero to zero and is asked to leave the town. People are dumb. That is my ultimate thought. Jesus did so much to heal the people in their community and that one thing which wasn’t His fault at all; He immediately becomes a bad guy.
Chapter 9
Don’t the Pharisees just tick you off sometimes? They are just so ignorant in their thoughts and views. Jesus is healing the blind, the mute, the demon possessed, the dead to live, etc. and the Pharisees say that it is by the prince of demons that drive out the demons. I just can’t help but feel they want to believe Jesus but their pride won’t let them which I think is ridiculous. I think that this is such a cool book of the New Testament so far. I love seeing how Jesus came to be and what He has to deal with and the amazing things He does.
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