Towards Heaven
November 11, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 15 1 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small […]
Acts Believe His Prophets
November 10, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 14 1 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks […]
Acts Believe His Prophets
November 9, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 13 1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with […]
Acts Believe His Prophets
Series THE BOOK OF DANIEL with Pastor Mark Finley | The 70 weeks of Daniel chapter 9 is one of the most amazing prophecies in the Bible. It ties into the longest time prophecy in the Bible and proves that God is real by predicting […]
“Judge not that you be not judged” (Matthew 7:1, ESV). Here, Jesus warns us not to judge others by our own standards, “for with what judgement ye judge, ye shall be judged” (verse 2, KJV). Indeed, how we treat others will come back to us […]
Everyone enjoys receiving gifts. Whether it be for a birthday, holiday celebration, or as an unexpected act of appreciation, gifts demonstrate that the giver cares for the one they are giving the gift to. Throughout the course of history, the greatest gift-giver of all is […]
This week, Pastor Ted Wilson concludes the video series on the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. As such, in this video, he talks about the new earth, the subject of our twenty-eighth fundamental belief. In the previous episode, we talked about the […]
⛪ Lesson 10: Upon Whom the Ends Have Come 📘 10.2 Noah’s Evangelism ✨ Steadfast in the Call to Salvation ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction Noah was no ordinary man. He was a preacher, a builder, a prophet—but also a father, husband, and son of his time. […]
10.Upon Whom the Ends Have Come ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 10: Upon Whom the Ends Have Come 📘 10.1 The Wrath of the Lamb ✨ When the Lamb is Angry – The Final Hour of Grace ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction There are moments in life when we sense that we’re approaching a decisive crossroads […]
10.Upon Whom the Ends Have Come ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.7 Questions …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction The questions in section 9.7 challenge us to actively carry forward the end-time message, to understand God’s sovereign guidance through church history, and to sense the prophetic dimension of current world […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.6 Summary✨ Hope, Reign, and Mission in God’s Grand Design …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In a world shaken by crises—whether pandemics, political upheaval, or personal loss—we find in the Psalms an unparalleled voice. Part 2 of Lesson […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.5 That Your Salvation May Be Known✨ Radiant Ambassadors of Salvation in a Dark World …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction There comes a moment in life when we must decide whether we want to remain mere recipients of […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.4 Wine and Blood✨ From the Cup of Judgment to the Cup of the Covenant …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In the twenty-first century we witness daily the abuse of human power, the erosion of moral standards, and […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.3 Under His Feet✨ Reigning with Christ over the Earth …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In the 21st century, we are confronted daily with news of conflicts, political upheavals, and natural disasters. Sometimes it feels as if our […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.2 Hope Amid Turmoil✨ The Unmoved Throne over a Storm-Tossed World …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In a world dominated by crises, conflicts, and catastrophic headlines, we long for stability and hope. Biblical prophecy reveals that this earth—as […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
⛪ Lesson 9: In the Psalms, Part 2 📘 9.1 A Very Present Help in the Time of Trouble ✨ God Our Rock and Refuge – Confidence in Crisis and the End Times ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction In the 21st century, amid global crises, political upheavals, and personal […]
9.In the Psalms: Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.7 Questions In the Light of the Sanctuary – The Psalms as Guides to God’s Presence ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction The Psalms are full of contrasts: exaltation and lament, jubilation and remorse, praise and pleading. They bear the weight […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 Allusions, Images, Symbols Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.6 Summary In the Light of the Sanctuary – The Psalms as Guides to God’s Presence ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction The Psalms are more than songs. They are prayers, laments, hymns of praise—and often prophetic windows into God’s great […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.5 Teach Transgressors Your Way Forgiven, Cleansed—and Sent ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction God’s work with humanity doesn’t begin with a command but with grace. Isaiah wasn’t commissioned before his guilt was atoned for—but only after the glowing coal touched […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.4 Psalm 5 Between Judgment and Grace – Psalm 5 and the Message of the Redeemed ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction Psalm 5 is an urgent plea for justice—not only for the world but for one’s own heart. King David […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 Genesis Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.3 Law in Our Hearts The Name on Our Foreheads – God’s Law Written Within ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction In a world where rules are often seen as limiting, cold, or even threatening, the word “law” can feel rigid. […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.2 On Mount Zion Who May Dwell on Your Holy Hill? – Only Through the Lamb ………………………………………………………………… 🕊️📜 Introduction The longing for closeness to God is deeply rooted in us. In the Psalms, David asks, “Who may dwell […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 8.In the Psalms: Part 1 8.1 Our High Priest The Heavenly High Priest – Jesus at the Center of Sanctuary and Hope ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction Imagine glimpsing into heaven—not at the stars but into the true sanctuary realm: Jesus Christ, our Savior, stands […]
8.In the Psalms: Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.6 Questions When Heaven Touches Earth—God’s Voice in Prophecy ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction There are moments in life when all masks fall away—when you can no longer hide from yourself, from others, or from God. The Bible describes exactly such […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.6 Summary When Heaven Touches Earth—God’s Voice in Prophecy ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction The foundations of prophecy are not just ancient texts and visions that are hard to understand—they are invitations into divine reality. From Isaiah’s call to Lucifer’s fall, […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.5 The Fall of Lucifer From Throne to Fall—Lucifer’s Pride and Christ’s Victory ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction One of history’s most mysterious tragedies is the fall of Lucifer, who once stood as a glorious cherub near God’s throne. He did […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.4 God Among His People God at the Center—from the Wilderness to Eternity ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction God’s desire was never to remain distant. From the very beginning, His goal was to dwell among His people—not above them, not outside […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.3 Like Burning Coals of Fire Fire, Wings, and Glory—A Vision of God’s Throne ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction Cherubim—those mysterious, awe-inspiring beings—always appear when God’s throne is revealed. Whether as golden figures on the Ark (Exodus 25:18), woven into the […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.2 The Two Cherubim The Cherubim at Eden’s Gate—Guardians of Life, Signs of Hope ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction After the Fall, Adam and Eve were driven out of the Garden of Eden. Yet God did not leave them without hope. […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 7: Foundations of Prophecy 7.1 “Here I Am—Send Me!” Cleansed, called, sent—Isaiah’s response to God’s grace ………………………………………………………………… 🟦 Introduction When God speaks, nothing remains the same. The prophet Isaiah’s calling doesn’t begin with a command but with a shattering encounter. In God’s presence, […]
7.Foundations of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2 5.7 – Questions …………………………………………………………………. 📖 Bible Study – Answers to the Questions 📌 1. Why is it important to remember that all earthly achievements will pass away?1 John 2:17 says, “The world and its desires pass away, but […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2 5.6 – SummaryGod’s Plan Amid the Kingdoms of This World …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction From the very first pages of the Bible to the final prophecy of Revelation, a red thread runs through Scripture: God’s sovereign guidance over human […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2 5.5 Prophesy Again The Final Message to a Dying World …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction God’s plan moves relentlessly toward its goal. Despite the chaos of human empires and the failures of the church, God continually gathers a faithful people. […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: T he Nations, Part 2 5.4 Between Land and Sea Land of Hope, Sea of Turmoil …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In the grand drama of salvation history, God uses powerful symbols to convey deep spiritual truths. Land and sea—two contrasting images—represent two worlds […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2 5.3 Daniel 7 Tumultuous Seas and the Unshakable Kingdom of God …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction In a small teahouse on the outskirts of Shanghai, under the pale glow of countless neon signs, Liang sat alone. It was late; the […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2 5.2 Daniel 2 – From Gold to Ashes God’s Kingdom Endures …………………………………………………………………. 🟦 Introduction Amid wars, revolutions, and technological marvels, the prophecy of Daniel reminds us that every earthly kingdom is fleeting. Daniel 2 gives us a sweeping […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
🟦 Introduction The history of this world is more than just a sequence of empires, kings, and political upheavals. It is the stage upon which God’s great plan of salvation unfolds. While human kingdoms rise and fall—often accompanied by war, pride, and chaos—God’s kingdom remains […]
5.The Nations, Part 2 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.7 – Questions God’s Ways with the Nations 🟦 Introduction Israel’s history is marked by highs and lows, obedience and rebellion. When God’s people were led into Babylonian captivity, His plan seemed to falter. Yet even in […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.6 Summary From Nimrod to Israel – God’s Plan for the Nations 🟦 Introduction – Between Kingdoms and Divine Calling Since the days after Eden, people have sought structure, security, and significance—often in human kingdoms, political systems, […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.5 A Light to the Gentiles A People for All Nations – God’s Light in a Dark World 🟦 Introduction – Called to Be a Source of Light God’s intention for Israel was always to be a […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.4 The Rulers of the Gentiles Power or Service? – The Lesson from Earthly Rulers 🟦 Introduction – When Power Overwhelms Faith The history of Israel and the early church shows us how easily spiritual communities can […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.3 Given What You Asked For A King Like the Others – Israel’s Consequential Choice 🟦 Introduction – The Desire to Be “Like Everyone Else” It is deep in human nature to want to belong. The other […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 4 – The Nations, Part 1 4.2 Abraham’s Calling Abraham’s Call: A New Beginning for God’s Plan 🟦 Introduction – A Call into the Unknown God doesn’t just call people out of places—He calls them out of old mindsets, familiar securities, and spiritual […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 Living Faith
🟦 Introduction – Nations on God’s Stage Early in Scripture they step into the light: the nations. Names like Babel, Egypt, Assyria, Nineveh, Israel—they appear as characters on a vast stage. And each of these peoples tells more than just their political story. In their […]
4.The Nations, Part 1 ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.7 Questions The final wedding feast and the watchful Bride 🟦 Introduction – The Bride Still Waits The Bible begins with a wedding in Eden—and ends with a wedding in Revelation. In between unfolds a love drama between […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.6 Summary God’s Love in His Covenant with His People 🟦 Introduction – A Love Story with Eternal Value The Bible begins with a marriage—and it ends with one. From Genesis to Revelation a red thread runs through […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.5 The Harlot Is Judged The End of Unfaithfulness – The Wedding of the Lamb and the Triumph of Love 🟦 Introduction – Two Feasts, One God Two images. Two stories. Two destinies.Revelation 19 presents both: the end […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.4 Isaac and Rebekah A Love Story with Heavenly Meaning 🟦 Introduction – A Love Story with an Eternal Echo Some love stories don’t begin with a glance but with a prayer. Not by chance, but by calling. […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.3 Hosea’s Harlot Wife The Unfaithful Bride – God’s Love Despite Spiritual Adultery 🟦 Introduction – When Love Hurts There is great power in love—and the deepest pain. Anyone who’s been betrayed knows: infidelity wounds more than the […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 3 – Images From Marriage 3.2 The Beautiful Bride Shaped by Grace, Not by Herself 🟦 Introduction – Beauty that Comes from Within… or Rather from Above? In a world that defines beauty by likes, filters, and fashion, it’s easy to fall into […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Introduction – The Divine Metaphor of Closeness In a world where relationships often fall apart and commitment is questioned, it’s almost surprising that God chooses marriage—of all symbols—to describe His love for us. And yet He does—again and again. From the first wedding in […]
3.Images From Marriage ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.7 Questions Firmly Rooted, Open to Light 🟦 Introduction – Old Light, New Light Truth is not rigid, but it is also not arbitrary. In a time when new ideas spread virally and everything old seems suspicious, many believers […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.6 Summary Back to the Beginning – Understanding the Key Themes of the Bible 🟦 Introduction – The Beginning Shapes Understanding What if you started watching a movie at minute 45 and tried to understand the plot? That’s what […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.5 The Serpent The Old Serpent in New Guise – Satan’s Unchanging Tactics 🟦 Introduction – The Enemy Disguises Himself, but He Doesn’t Change In a digital age filled with voices, opinions, and so-called truths, it’s easy to lose […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.4 Dealing with Death The Enemy of Life – And the Hope Beyond Death 🟦 Introduction – Life in the Shadow of Death Death is no stranger. It follows us like a silent shadow, from cradle to grave. It […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.3 Isaac’s Question: “Where is the Lamb?” “Where is the Lamb?” – The Question That Runs Through the Bible 🟦 Introduction – A Question That Runs Through the Bible “Where is the lamb?” – This question, asked by Isaac […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 2 – Foundation Genesis 2.2 Understanding God’s Love Divine Love: More Than a Feeling – A Selfless Devotion 🟦 Introduction – Love Beyond Emotion In a world where love is often confused with romantic passion, fleeting feelings, or self-fulfillment, the question remains: What […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
🟦 Introduction – Why the Beginning Matters The beginning is more than just a point in time. In the Bible, the beginning is a revelation—a foundational layer upon which everything else is built. Genesis is not only the first book of the Bible, it is […]
2.The Genesis Foundation ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.7 Questions – What Prophecy Does to Our Faith 🟦 Introduction – More Than Just Interpretation We live in a time overflowing with information—but often lacking orientation. Especially in the field of prophecy, countless voices compete with […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.6 Summary Foundations for a Clear Understanding of Biblical Prophecy 🟦 Introduction – Orientation in the Fog of Opinions The Bible is a book like no other. Especially in the realm of prophecy, we encounter a wide […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.5 Figurative or Literal? Divine Images with Clear Meaning 🟦 Introduction – When Images Speak Louder Than Words In a world full of emojis, logos, and symbolic language, we’re used to interpreting signs. But when it comes […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.4 Studying the Word Understanding Prophecy Means Letting the Whole Bible Speak 🟦 Introduction – Seeing the Whole Many Christians look for quick answers in the Bible – a verse for comfort, a quote against doubt, a […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.3 Daniel-Shut Up the Words When Knowledge Blossoms in the Time of the End 🟦 Introduction – When Truth Remains Sealed Some truths need time.Some books remain closed for a long time — until the right moment […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
📘 Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy 1.2 God Wants to Be Understood A Clear God in a Confused World 🟦 Introduction – When Communication Becomes a Challenge Few things are more frustrating than urgently needing to communicate — for example, in a hospital […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
🟦 Introduction – A Clear Compass in the Fog of Interpretations Prophecy fascinates – and confuses. In Christian bookstores, on YouTube, and in discussions about world events, we encounter a flood of interpretations: Who is the Antichrist? Is Babylon a city or a system? […]
1.Some Principles of Prophecy ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS Living Faith
1.Read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8. In what way does 1 Corinthians 13 show what kind of people we should be? 1 Corinthians 13:4–8 is one of the best-known Bible passages about love – and at the same time a powerful mirror that shows us what kind […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.6 Summary Divine Love as the Heart of the Law Lesson 13 leads us to the heart of the Christian faith: God’s Law is an expression of His love, and true love is the fulfillment of this Law. It’s not about external duty, but about […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.5 Above All, Love One Another Love that Changes the World – Christianity in Action Read James 2:1–9. What decisive messages are given to us here? Love is not just part of our faith—it is its foundation. When we say that love is the fulfillment […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.4 Love is the Fulfillment of the Law Love that Acts – The Law Lived in the Heart Read Matthew 23:23–24. What is “the most important part of the Law”? Read Deuteronomy 5:12–15 and Isaiah 58:13–14. How do these passages show the relationship between the […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.3 Law and Grace Grace and Law – Two Paths, One Goal: Salvation in Love Read Jeremiah 31:31–34. What does this passage teach about God’s promise to give us a new heart? Compare this with the words of Christ to Nicodemus in John 3:1–21 concerning […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.2 The Law Is Holy and Righteous and Good The Law – A Reflection of God’s Love and Holiness Read Romans 6:1–3 and then 7:7–12, with special emphasis on verse 12. What do these verses tell us about the law, even after the death of […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
13.1 The Law of Love The Ten Commandments – An Expression of Lived Love Read Exodus 20:1–17. How do these verses reveal the two principles of love for God and love for others? The Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1–17 wonderfully reveal the divine order founded […]
13.Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Why and in what way is it true that “every false religion … teaches its followers to be indifferent to human needs, suffering, and rights”? What concrete steps can we take to avoid such negligence in our local congregations and beyond? False religions often concentrate […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
12.6 Summary Love and Justice – The Heart of God’s Commandments This lesson shows that true discipleship of Jesus is expressed through lived love and justice. God’s will is that we love Him with all our hearts and express this love through mercy and justice […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
12.5 Who Is My Neighbor? True Neighborly Love in Action Read the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37. What does this passage say in light of the prophets’ call for mercy and justice and considering the injustices that various groups of people have […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
12.4 Called to Establish Justice Justice as a Lived-Out Faith The Bible is clear: God’s heart beats for justice. From the prophets of the Old Testament to Jesus himself, it is repeatedly emphasized that a credible faith cannot exist without justice. The Urgency of Justice […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
12.3 God Loves Justice God’s Heart Beats for Justice Read Psalm 82. How does this psalm express God’s concern for justice in this world? What could this psalm mean for us today? The Bible makes it unmistakably clear that God loves justice and hates evil […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
12.2 The Two Greatest Sins Idolatry and Lovelessness – The Two Greatest Sins Read Psalm 135:13–19. What does this Psalm reveal about a common sin that is condemned throughout the Holy Scriptures? Jesus makes it clear that the two greatest commandments are love for God […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Love and Justice – God’s Highest Calling Love and justice are the central values that run throughout the entire Bible. Jesus himself summarized the law in two commandments: to love God with all your heart and to […]
12.Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Have you ever been at a loss trying to understand God’s providence? How does knowing that all these things will be made clear in the end comfort you? Being at a loss regarding God’s providence is an experience many people share—in times of suffering, loss, […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
11.6 Summary God’s Perfect Love and Justice Lesson 11 deals with the question of whether God could have done more to reveal His love, justice, and truth. Through various biblical texts, it becomes clear that God gave everything to save humanity and to justify His […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith
11.5 The Vindication of God’s Name God’s Name Will Be Vindicated Read Romans 3:1–4 together with Isaiah 5:3–4. What does this teach about how God is justified in the cosmic conflict? The Bible shows us that God’s name—His essence, His character—was questioned throughout salvation history. […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
11.4 Christ’s Parable of the Vineyard The Greatest Love—God’s Ultimate Sacrifice Read Matthew 21:33–39 with the question from Isaiah 5:4 in mind. What more could God do than what He has already done? The parable in Matthew 21:33–39 is a direct continuation of the message […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
11.3 The Song of My Beloved God’s Perfect Love and Justice Read Isaiah 5:1–4. Who is speaking in these verses? Whom is Isaiah referring to? Who do the vineyard and the vineyard owner represent? What does the vineyard owner’s conduct mean for the vineyard? What […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
11.2 The Just and the Justifier Christ—the Righteous One and Justifier Read Romans 3:23–26 and 5:8. What do these verses reveal about how Christ refutes Satan’s claims? The work of Christ is the ultimate counterargument against Satan’s slanderous accusations. Satan portrays God as unjust, unloving, […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 11.What More Could I Have Done? God’s Love in the Cosmic Conflict The Bible reveals to us a God who has done everything to save humanity. Yet, despite His immeasurable love and justice, many people reject Him. Could God have done even more? This […]
11.What More Could I Have Done? Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.What does it mean to be “Satan’s legitimate prisoner”? Does this mean that the devil can do whatever he wants to people? If not, why not? How does this relate to what we might call the “rules of engagement” in the cosmic conflict? The expression […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
10.6 Summary Rules of the Game in the Cosmic Conflict The great battle between good and evil is not a chaotic power struggle but follows certain divine principles that reflect God’s justice, love, and respect for free will. God does not force anyone to worship […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
10.5 Limits and Rules God’s Justice in the Cosmic Conflict The cosmic conflict is not simply a battle between good and evil in terms of a power struggle. Rather, it is about a deeper question: Is God’s government truly just, loving, and trustworthy? Satan has […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
10.4 The (Temporary) Ruler of This World The Limited Power of Evil Read John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Corinthians 4:4; and Luke 4:6. What do these texts teach about the dominion of the enemy in this world? The Bible makes it clear that Satan currently […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
10.3 The Case of Job A Battle for Trust and Justice Read Job 1:1–12 and 2:1–7. Which principles of the Great Controversy are revealed here? The story of Job offers profound insights into the Great Controversy between God and Satan. In Job 1 and 2, […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
10.2 The Dragon of Revelation The Limited Triumph of Evil Read Revelation 13:1–8. What does the text say about the extent of the dragon’s power? Revelation portrays Satan as the great dragon who not only challenges God and His heavenly armies (Rev 12:7–9) but also […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 10.Rules of Engagement God’s Rules of the Game in the Cosmic Conflict At the heart of the cosmic conflict lies not only the contrast between good and evil but also the question of the principles and rules that govern this struggle. God’s nature—His goodness, […]
10.Rules of Engagement Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Many people wonder how a sinless creature like Lucifer could sin for the first time. Why is sin so “mysterious” and “inexplicable”? How can we explain this first sin without excusing or justifying it? In other words, why would an explanation of its origin be […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
9.6 Summary The Cosmic Conflict – A Battle Over Truth, Trust, and Worship The Cosmic Conflict deals with the spiritual battle between God and Satan, a conflict that has persisted throughout human history since Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven. This conflict is not a struggle for […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
9.5 The Nature of the Cosmic Conflict A Battle for Trust – God’s Truth Against Satan’s Lies The cosmic conflict between God and Satan is more than a struggle between two powers – it is a conflict over character, trust, and truth. If it were […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
9.4 If You Worship Me The Battle for Worship – Jesus’ Victory Over Temptation and Deception Read Matthew 4:1–11. How does this passage reveal the reality of the great conflict between Christ and Satan? Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness powerfully illustrates the cosmic battle between […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
9.3 The Origin of the Controversy in Heaven The Fall of Lucifer – Pride as the Source of the Heavenly Conflict Read Ezekiel 28:12–19 in light of Exodus 25:19–20. What is the nature of this being’s fall? The origin of evil did not begin on […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
9.2 The Origin of the Controversy on Earth The Origin of Evil – A Conflict Over Trust and Truth Read Genesis 1:31. What do God’s words reveal about the state of creation when God had finished His work, and why is this answer important? The […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 9.The Cosmic Conflict Origin, Nature, and Hope Since the beginning of time, an invisible yet very real conflict has raged between good and evil, between God and Satan. This struggle is not simply a dispute between two opposing forces – it is about much […]
9.The Cosmic Conflict Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.How does the fact that God does not always get what He wants affect the way you think about what happens in this world? What practical implications does the realization that God has unfulfilled desires have? The realization that God does not always get what […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
8.6 Summary God’s Sovereignty and Human Free Will Lesson 8 explores the fascinating interaction between God’s omnipotence, human free will, and His divine providence. Central questions include: How does God act in the world? How much freedom does humanity have? And how does God’s love […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
8.5 Christ Has Overcome the World Hope Despite Suffering: Christ Has Won Read John 16:33. What hope does this text offer us, even in the midst of tribulations? In John 16:33, Jesus speaks openly and honestly to His disciples: “In this world you will have […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
8.4 God’s Ideal and Remedial Wills God’s Plan: Freedom and Restoration Read Ephesians 1:9–11. What does this text say about predestination? Are some people predestined to be saved while others are doomed to perish? Ephesians 1:9–11 provides valuable insights into God’s plan for humanity and […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
8.3 To Love God Love Cannot Be Forced Read Matthew 22:37 and Deuteronomy 6:4–5. What do these verses teach about the reality of free will? The verses in Matthew 22:37 and Deuteronomy 6:4–5 show that God links the greatest commandment to a conscious decision: “You […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
8.2 Pantokrator God’s Omnipotence and Human Freedom Read Revelation 11:17; Jeremiah 32:17–20; Luke 1:37 and Matthew 19:26. Also note Hebrews 1:3. What do these passages teach us about God’s power? The Bible reveals God as the Almighty (Pantokrator), who not only created everything but also […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Free Will, Love, and God’s Work in the World Why is there suffering in a world created by an almighty and loving God? How do God’s providence and human freedom fit together? These questions touch on fundamental aspects […]
8.Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.“Theodicy” is a term for the justification of God in the face of evil. But it is not a justification for evil itself. Imagine someone in heaven saying, “Oh yes, Jesus, now I understand why my family was tortured and murdered before my eyes. Yes, […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
7.6 Summary Freedom, Suffering, and God’s Ultimate Victory The problem of evil is one of the greatest challenges to faith: If God is good and almighty, why then does evil and suffering exist? This lesson highlights biblical answers to this question and shows that love, […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
7.5 Love and Evil? Love and Freedom—The Divine Risk and the Overcoming of Evil The relationship between love and free will is a central theme in understanding God and the problem of evil. God is love (1 John 4:8) – but love can only exist […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
7.4 The Freewill Defense Why True Love Cannot Exist Without Freedom Read Genesis 2:16–17. How do these verses demonstrate the moral freedom granted to Adam and Eve? Free Will as a Divine Gift In Genesis 2:16–17, God says to Adam: “Of every tree in the […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
7.3 The Skeptical Theist Trusting in God’s Higher Ways Despite Unanswered Questions God says in Isaiah 55:8–9 that His thoughts and ways are far higher than ours. This reminds us that we cannot expect to fully understand God’s actions in all their depth. Why Can’t […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
7.2 “There Are Many Things We Do Not Know” Trust in God’s Wisdom Despite Unanswered Questions Read Job 38:1–12. To what extent does God’s answer to Job shed light on the problem of evil? How much do we know about what might be going on […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 7.The Problem of Evil Why God Permits Freedom and How He Ultimately Defeats Evil The problem of evil is one of the greatest challenges to our faith. If God is good and almighty, why then is there suffering, injustice, and pain in the world? […]
7.The Problem of Evil Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Why is it very important to recognize that God’s glory is connected with His goodness? How does this correct a theology of glory that emphasizes sheer power without highlighting God’s love and nature? It is of great importance to recognize that God’s glory is inseparably […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
6.6 Summary God’s Love for Justice – An Inseparable Divine Principle God’s love and justice are inextricably linked. He is perfect in His love and perfect in His justice – the two do not contradict each other but complement each other in perfect harmony. His […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
6.5 Hold Fast to Love and Justice Holding on to Love and Justice – God’s Way for Us Read Matthew 5:43–48. What does this passage teach us about God’s amazing love? How should we behave toward others in light of Jesus’ teaching? The Bible repeatedly […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
6.4 A Repenting God? God’s Repentance – An Expression of His Mercy and Faithfulness Read Exodus 32:14 and compare the verse with Jeremiah 18:4–10. What do you think of these descriptions of God “relenting”? At first glance, it might seem contradictory that the Bible sometimes […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
6.3 God’s Changeless Character God’s Nature Remains Eternal – Faithful, Just, and Unchanging Read Malachi 3:6 and James 1:17. What do these verses teach about God’s nature? God’s immutability is one of the deepest and most reassuring truths in the Bible. Malachi 3:6 proclaims, “For […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
6.2 God Is Entirely Good and Righteous God is Perfect – in Justice, Faithfulness, and Love Read Deuteronomy 32:4 and Psalm 92:16. What do these verses teach us about God’s faithfulness and justice? The Bible reveals to us a God who not only demands love […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 6.God’s Love of Justice God’s Love of Justice – The Foundation of His Actions God’s nature is a perfect unity of love and justice. While human justice is often flawed and influenced by self-interest, God’s justice remains perfect, reliable, and unchanging. The Bible shows […]
6.God's Love of Justice Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Why do you think so many people struggle with the concept of divine wrath? What helps you understand it? Many people have difficulty with the concept of divine wrath because it is often compared to human anger, which is impulsive, emotional, and often unjust. The […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
5.6 Summary Justice from Deepest Mercy Lesson 5 highlights how God’s wrath is not comparable to human anger or revenge but is an expression of His perfect love and justice. His wrath is not directed against people but against the evil that destroys His beloved […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
5.5 Show Compassion God’s Mercy as a Model for Our Actions Some fear that divine wrath might inadvertently be understood as a free pass for human revenge. Read Deuteronomy 32:35; Proverbs 20:22; 24:29; Romans 12:17–21; and Hebrews 10:30. How do these texts protect against human […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
5.4 God Does Not Afflict Willingly His Wrath Serves Justice, Not Punishment Read Ezra 5:12 and compare the verse with Jeremiah 51:24–25, 44. What does this explain about the judgment that came upon Jerusalem through the Babylonians? (See also 2 Chronicles 36:16) The verses in […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
5.3 Righteous Indignation The Wrath of Love Against Injustice Look at the Story of Jonah and Reflect on His Reaction to God’s Merciful Forgiveness for the Ninevites (Jonah 4:1–4). What Does This Tell Us About Jonah and About God? (See also Matt 10:8) The story […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
5.2 God is Slow to Anger Patience and Grace as Expressions of Divine Love Look at the Story of Jonah and Reflect on His Reaction to God’s Merciful Forgiveness for the Ninevites (Jonah 4:1–4). What Does This Tell Us About Jonah and About God? (See […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 5.The Wrath of Divine Love When Love Demands Justice Lesson 5 leads us into a deeper reflection on an often misunderstood aspect of God’s character: His wrath. Unlike human anger, which is frequently marked by pride, revenge, or impatience, God’s wrath stems from His […]
5.The Wrath of Divine Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Look at what the above cited inspired words say about how we stand before the Father through Jesus: “He will clothe you with the white robe of His righteousness—of His character—and present you to His Father.” No matter how discouraged we may sometimes be by […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
4.6 Summary The Depth of Divine Love Lesson 4 shows us how deep God’s love and care for people are. Through various biblical passages, God’s compassion and mercy become evident, especially in His affection for those who are often in distress. In Psalm 103:13, Isaiah […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
4.5 Compassion and Passionate God’s Love as a Model for Our Lives Read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8. In what ways does this passage instruct us to reflect God’s merciful and amazing love in our relationships with others? The passage from 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 describes the love […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
4.4 A Jealous God? God’s Passionate Love and Faithfulness 1 Corinthians 13:4 explains that love does not “jealous.” So how can God be a “jealous God”? Read 2 Corinthians 11:2 and consider how God’s people have become unfaithful to Him in the biblical narratives (see, […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
4.3 The Compassion of Jesus The Lived Mercy of God Read Matthew 9:36; 14:14; Mark 1:41; 6:34; and Luke 7:13. Also see Matthew 23:37. How do these verses illuminate the way Christ was moved by the needs of people? The verses found in the Gospels—Matthew […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
4.2 Gut-Wrenching Love God’s Deep Yearning for His People Read Hosea 11:1–9. How do the images in these verses illustrate how God loves and cares for His people? The passage from Hosea 11:1-9 vividly demonstrates the depth and passion of God’s love for His people. […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate The Source of True Love and Grace Lesson 4 delves into the profound dimensions of God’s love for humanity. It illustrates how God, in His immeasurable mercy and compassion, responds to human suffering and distress. Through biblical examples and […]
4.God Is Passionate and Compassionate Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.What Could It Mean to “Receive Selflessly”? How Will the Relationship of Giving and Receiving Look in Heaven and on the New Earth? What Could It Mean to “Receive Selflessly”? “Receiving selflessly” means accepting gifts, love, or support without ulterior motives or expectations of something […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
3.6 Summary Being Pleasing to God – Living in His Love and Grace Lesson 3 demonstrates what it means to lead a life that pleases God and how we can live in close relationship with Him through faith, love, and dedication. God’s joy over us […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
3.5 A Worthy Goal A Valuable Goal – Pleasing God with Faith Read Mark 9:17–29. How does God respond to the man in this story? How much faith is enough faith? The story in Mark 9:17–29 powerfully illustrates how patient and merciful Jesus is with […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
3.4 Living Stones Pleasing God in Christ Read Romans 8:1 and 5:8. What do these verses teach us about our position before God? The verses Romans 8:1 and Romans 5:8 reveal a powerful truth about our position before God: We are free from condemnation and […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
3.3 Pleasing God? Our Significance in His Eyes Read Isaiah 43:4; Psalm 149:4 and Proverbs 15:8–9. What do these verses tell us about God’s joy in His people? The verses from Isaiah 43:4, Psalm 149:4, and Proverbs 15:8–9 convey a profound truth about God’s joy […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
3.2 Rejoicing With Gladness God’s Joy Over Each Individual Read Zephaniah 3:17. In what way does this verse illuminate the Parable of the Prodigal Son? Zephaniah 3:17 and the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11–32 wonderfully complement each other in their portrayal of […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 3.To Be Pleasing to God Living for the Honor of God What does it mean to lead a life that pleases God? This question concerns many believers, as we often tend to associate God’s pleasure with performance, perfection, or outward actions. However, the Bible […]
3.To Be Pleasing to God Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Reflect on the above sentence: “The relationship between God and every person is so individual and comprehensive, as if there were no one else on earth He had to care for, no other person for whom He gave His beloved Son.” What comfort does this […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
2.6 Summary Covenant Love – God’s Faithful Devotion and Our Response Lesson 2, Covenant Love, illustrates how deep and unwavering God’s love is for His people and how it obligates us to respond and pass it on. God’s love is described in the Bible as […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
2.5 You Have Freely Received; Freely Give Passing On Received Love – The Call to Neighborly Love Read John 15:12; 1 John 3:16; and 1 John 4:7–12. What do these passages teach us about the relationship between God’s love, our love for God, and our […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
2.4 Mercy Forfeited Conditional Grace – The Responsibility of Forgiveness Read 1 John 4:7–20, with particular emphasis on verses 7 and 19. What does this tell us about the primacy of God’s love? The passage from 1 John 4:7–20 and the parable of the unforgiving […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
2.3 Conditional Relationship God’s Love and Our Response – Conditional Blessings, Unconditional Love Read Hosea 9:15; Jeremiah 16:5; Romans 11:22; and Jude 21. What do these verses teach about whether one can reject or even lose the benefits of God’s love? This lesson highlights a […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
2.2 Covenant Love Covenant Love – God’s Faithfulness and Our Response Read Deuteronomy 7:6–9. What do these verses teach about the relationship with God, who makes covenants, and about God’s loving kindness? The verses in Deuteronomy 7:6–9 highlight the special relationship that God enters into […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 2.Covenant Love Covenant Love – God’s Eternal Faithfulness and Our Response In Lesson 2, we delve into the deep, unshakable love of God, known as federal love. This love forms the foundation of His relationship with us—a relationship marked by faithfulness, forgiveness, and grace. […]
2.Covenant Love Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Worse Than the Thought That There Is No God Would Be the Thought That God Hates Us. How Would Our World Look Different if That Were True? The thought that God could hate us would profoundly shake the foundation of our world and faith. Such […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.6 Summary The Essence of Divine Love: Faithfulness, Freedom, and Invitation The first lesson highlights the depth and breadth of God’s immeasurable and unconditional love. This love is the heart of our faith and is evident in all aspects of His actions, regardless of human […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.5 Crucified for Us The Ultimate Sacrifice: God’s Love Revealed on the Cross Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s undeserved, unconditional love. It shows that His love knows no bounds and that He was willing to pay the highest price […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.4 Many Are Called, but Few Are Chosen God’s Invitation: Many Called, Few Willing Read Matthew 22:1–14. What does this parable mean? The Parable of the Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1–14) reveals the depth of God’s invitation and love, as well as the responsibility that comes […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.3 Love Freely Given Out of Free Will: God’s Boundless and Undeserved Love Compare Revelation 4:11 and Psalm 33:6. What do these verses tell us about God’s freedom concerning creation? The truths expressed in Revelation 4:11 and Psalm 33:6 about God’s freedom regarding creation demonstrate […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.2 Unrequited Love Despite Unfaithfulness: God’s Voluntary and Unwavering Love Read Exodus 33:15–22. Reflect on the context of these verses and the account in which they appear. What does this passage, especially verse 19, reveal about God’s will and love? The story of Hosea is […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
Lesson 1.God Loves Freely The Immeasurable and Unconditional Love of God The foundation of our faith is the astonishing truth that God’s love is unconditional, unbounded, and limitless. This love permeates the entire history of humanity, is evident in His actions with His people, and […]
1.God Loves Freely Living Faith THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE
1.Which account in the Gospel of John best expresses the love and character of God? Explain to the other conversation participants why you find this account so captivating. An account in the Gospel of John that best expresses the love and character of God is […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
13.6 Summary Jesus—The Light That Leads to Truth The final lesson of this quarter summarizes the central themes of faith emphasized in the Gospel of John. It invites us to build a deeper relationship with Jesus and remain in His word to grow spiritually and […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
13.5 Abiding in Jesus The Key to True Discipleship Read John 12:32. How does this striking statement describe the authority of Jesus Christ? John 12:32 highlights the central authority of Jesus Christ in the history of salvation: “And I, when I am lifted up from […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
13.4 Theology From “Above” or From “Below” Faith That Goes Beyond Human Ideas Read John 4:46–54. What problem did the royal official bring to Jesus? What was the real issue here? The story of the royal official in John 4:46–54 reveals two fundamental perspectives on […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
13.3 Light and Darkness The Path to Truth Read John 1:4–10; 3:19–21; 5:35; 8:12; 9:5; 11:9–10; and 12:35. What strong contrast is presented here, and why is this contrast fundamental to understanding the truth? The juxtaposition of light and darkness depicted in the cited Bible […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
13.2 Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus The Key to Discipleship Read John 21:20–22. What question led Peter astray? How did Jesus straighten the path? In John 21:20–22, we experience a profound moment between Jesus and Peter that offers valuable insights into discipleship and the proper […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Getting to Know the Master and His Word In the final lesson of this quarter, we reflect on the key themes of the Gospel of John, which call us to know Jesus and His Word more deeply. The […]
13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.What decision-making processes can help you avoid the type of mistakes that Pilate made? Pilate was in a difficult situation where he had to make a decision under the pressure of the crowd and the religious leaders. His mistakes—uncertainty, fear of consequences, and the attempt […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
12.6 Summary The Cross and Resurrection: The Climax of God’s Plan of Redemption Lesson 12 covers the central events of the Christian faith: the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These events mark the climax of God’s plan for the redemption of humanity and […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
12.5 Jesus and Mary A Personal Revelation: Mary Recognizes the Risen Lord Read John 20:11–13. What happened that shows why Mary Magdalene still did not understand the significance of the empty tomb? Mary Magdalene’s reaction in John 20:11–13 shows how deep her grief and despair […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
12.4 The Empty Tomb The Empty Tomb: A Sign of Resurrection and Hope Read John 20:1–7. What significance does what is described in these verses have for us? The empty tomb is the heart of the Christian faith. In John 20:1–7, it becomes clear that […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
12.3 “It Is Finished” The Completed Work: Hope Through Jesus’ Sacrifice Read John 19:25–27. What moving scene surrounding Jesus’ mother occurred at the cross? The words “It is finished” (John 19:30) mark the climax of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the completion of His redemptive plan. […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
12.2 Behold the Man! The Irony of Judgment: The True King and the Lamb of God Read John 18:38–19:5. How does Pilate try to convince the people to request the release of Jesus? In John 18:38–19:5, we experience one of the most tragic and at […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection The Cross and the Resurrection: The Turning Point of History Lesson 12 leads us to the pinnacle of the Christian faith: the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These central events of salvation history reveal in […]
12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1. Eternal life means knowing God (John 17:3). What does it mean to know God, as opposed to just knowing certain things about Him, such as that He is powerful, loving, or a God of justice? If someone were to ask you, “Do you know […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
11.6 Summary The Unity of the Trinity: Love, Truth, and Redemption Lesson 11 deals with the deep relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, as well as their roles in creation, redemption, and the guidance of humanity. It illustrates how the Trinity […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
11.5 Jesus’ Prayer Jesus’ Prayer: Unity in Love and Truth Read John 17:1–26. What words or phrases in this chapter express Jesus’ desire for a close love relationship between Him, the Father, and His disciples? The high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17 is […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
11.4 The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit: Renewing and Leading into All Truth Read John 1:10–13. What does this passage teach us about the significance of the Holy Spirit for conversion? In the Gospel of John, it becomes clear that the Holy Spirit plays a […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
11.3 Knowing the Son Means Knowing the Father Jesus: The Way to the Father and Revealer of His Will The Gospel of John reveals to us a central truth of the Christian faith: Through Jesus Christ, the Father becomes visible. Jesus is not only the […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
11.2 Jesus and the Father Jesus: Revealer of the Father and Restorer of the Relationship with God Read Genesis 3:7–9. How is the break caused by sin made clear here? What does it mean that it was God who sought the people and not the […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit The Trinity: Unity in Love, Truth, and Redemption Plan Lesson 11 invites us to understand and appreciate the unity and work of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—in creation, salvation, and the daily lives of believers. The […]
11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Discuss your answers to the last question in the Thursday section. What decisive truths that the Bible conveys could we never, not even approximately, learn from science? For example, the cross? Or the resurrection? Or the second coming? What other important biblical truths must be […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
10.6 Summary Living from a Heavenly Perspective Lesson 10 focuses on Jesus’ central statement in John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” These words not only summarize the core of His ministry […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
10.5 From Beneath Human Blindness and Divine Truth Read John 5:38–40. What does Jesus say about the Holy Scripture here? In John 5:38–40, Jesus shows how central the Holy Scripture is for understanding Him as the Messiah and the truth. His words reveal not only […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
10.4 Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus: Part II Proof of His Messianic Mission Read John 1:14, 17; 8:32; 14:6; and 15:26. How does John directly connect the concept of truth with Jesus? The Gospel of John uniquely connects the concept of truth with Jesus Christ. […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
10.3 I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life Jesus: The Path, the Revelation, and the Source of Life Read John 14:5–6. What did Thomas want to know about where Jesus would go? How did Jesus respond? The words of Jesus in John 14:6 […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
10.2 I Will Certainly Come Again The Second Coming of Christ: Assurance from the Faithfulness of the Redeemer Read John 14:1–3. In what context does Jesus say these words? Jesus’ words in John 14:1–3 are a powerful promise that strengthens the faith and hope of […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Jesus: The Way to Redemption and the Source of Divine Truth In Lesson 10, the words of Jesus from John 14:6 are central: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the […]
10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Jesus Gave So Much to Save the World. In Your Opinion, What Is the Best Way to Help Others Recognize This Amazing Truth and Come to Faith in Him? The best way to bring others closer to the truth about Jesus and lead them to […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
9.6 Summary Jesus, the Source of Eternal Life Lesson 9 highlights Jesus Christ as the true source of life—physical, spiritual, and eternal. It emphasizes His role as Creator, Redeemer, and Light of the World, calling us to accept Him to experience life in abundance. Simultaneously, […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
9.5 Condemnation Condemned by Unbelief: Rejecting the Light of Truth Why Are People Condemned? John 3:18,36; 5:24,38; 8:24; 12:47 John 3:18–21 describes the basis for condemnation: the rejection of Jesus, the Light of the World. This condemnation does not occur through an arbitrary act of […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
9.4 Rejecting the Source of Life Rejecting the Source of Life: The Loss Through Unbelief The tragic rejection of Jesus, the source of life, reveals the profound gap between God’s offer of salvation and the human response. John describes this with poignant clarity: although Jesus […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
9.3 Believing and New Birth Faith and Rebirth: The Way to Becoming God’s Child Read John 1:12–13. What steps are described here that are needed to become a Christian? John 1:12–13 describes the miraculous process of rebirth and becoming children of God, encompassing two crucial […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
9.2 The Words of Eternal Life The Words of Eternal Life: A Promise That Changes Everything Read John 6:61–68. What did Peter’s response mean after Jesus asked his disciples if they wanted to leave him? Peter’s response to Jesus’ question about whether the disciples wanted […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 9.The Source of Life Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life Life, as we know it, has an origin—a source that animates and sustains all that exists. In Lesson 9, we focus our attention on Jesus Christ, who is not only the creator […]
9.The Source of Life Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.How Do the Prophecies Fulfilled in the Life of Jesus Build Faith? The Old Testament prophecies and their fulfillment in the life of Jesus have a profound and powerful impact on our faith. They connect the past with the present and provide us with a […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
8.6 Summary Living from a Heavenly Perspective This lesson demonstrates how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament and revealed Him as the promised Messiah. John and other New Testament authors repeatedly testify that Jesus is […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
8.5 From Beneath Human Blindness and Divine Truth Read John 8:12–30. What dynamic existed here between Jesus and these religious leaders? Which texts best explain why many rejected Him? The dynamic between Jesus and the religious leaders in John 8:12–30 reveals a deep tension that […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
8.4 Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus: Part II Proof of His Messianic Mission Jesus’ statement in John 5:39 that the Scriptures testify about Him is an astounding claim that reveals His central role in God’s entire plan of salvation. Jesus not only explained that Scripture […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
8.3 Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus: Part I Fulfillment of Divine Promises Jesus’ emphasis on the authority of the Holy Scriptures in His confrontations with the religious leaders shows us how deeply His identity and mission are rooted in the Old Testament. Jesus made it […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
8.2 The Authoritative Role of Scripture Foundation of Faith Read the following verses: John 5:39–40, 46–47. What do they teach us about Jesus’ attitude toward the authority of the Holy Scriptures? The Holy Scriptures play a central role in the revelation of Jesus as the […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Jesus Christ: The Fulfillment of Divine Promises The Bible is a single, grand testimony of God’s plan of redemption, which runs from the very beginning and finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Lesson 8 invites us to discover the connection […]
8.Fulfilling Old Testament Prophecies Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.What was the essential difference in the expressions of faith between Abraham and Thomas? What can we learn from their stories? The essential difference between Abraham and Thomas in their expressions of faith lies in the nature of their trust in God’s promises and how […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
7.6 Summary Faith Without Seeing – The Path to True Blessing Lesson 7 covers various witnesses who testify about Jesus in the Gospel of John and how their testimonies inspire and challenge us today. Abraham: Jesus refers to Abraham to show the historical depth of […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
7.5 Our Witness of Jesus Our Testimony – Faith Strengthened by History and Experience What do we have today that people in Jesus’ time did not, which should help us believe? See, for example, Matthew 24:2, 14; 24:6–8. The testimony about Jesus is as powerful […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
7.4 The Witness of Thomas From Doubt to Confession of Faith – Thomas’ Lesson Read John 20:19–31. What can we learn from the story of Thomas about faith and doubt? What major mistake did Thomas make? The story of Thomas teaches us a crucial lesson […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
7.3 The Unwitting Witness of Pilate Pilate’s Unconscious Testimony of Truth How does Pilate’s judgment relate to the theme of the Gospel of John? John 18:38; 19:4–22 Pilate’s judgment is a powerful and simultaneously tragic testimony in the Gospel of John. Although Pilate declared Jesus […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
7.2 The Witness of Mary Mary’s Precious Gift as an Expression of Faith What was the significance of Mary’s behavior here? In what way was this a testimony to who Jesus really was? John 12:1–3 Mary’s action in Simon’s house was a profoundly meaningful testimony […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Witnesses of Faith in the Gospel of John Lesson 7 leads us to various witnesses of faith in the Gospel of John and demonstrates how their encounters with Jesus can influence our own understanding of faith, doubt, and testimony. […]
7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Discuss the following difficult question: Why do some people readily accept evidence for Jesus as the Messiah and the truth of Christianity, while others reject the same evidence? This question is complex and touches on various levels—from personal background and inner attitude to spiritual aspects. […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
6.6 Summary Revelations of the Messiah In Lesson 6, we examine how various testimonies reveal and challenge the identity and mission of Jesus. The lesson begins with the testimony of John the Baptist, who refers to Jesus as the “Lamb of God” and announces Him […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
6.5 The Witness of the Crowd Divided Belief and Questions About Jesus’ Origin How did many in the crowd react when Jesus spoke to the Jews participating in the Feast of Tabernacles? John 7:37–53 In John 7:37–38, Jesus invites people during the Feast of Tabernacles […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
6.4 The Witness of the Father God’s Confirmation of His Son Read John 5:36–38. What does Jesus say about the Father here? In John 5:36–38, Jesus speaks about the testimony of His heavenly Father and establishes a profound connection between His own works and the […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
6.3 Acceptance and Rejection “The Bread of Life” – Jesus’ Call to Deeper Commitment Read John 6:51–71. What did Jesus say that people found difficult to accept? In John 6:51–71, Jesus speaks one of the most central yet elusive truths of His ministry: “I am […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
6.2 A New Understanding of the Messiah “The Lamb of God” – An Unexpected Image of the Messiah Read John 1:32–36. What does John the Baptist say about Jesus that people did not expect from the long-awaited Messiah? John the Baptist introduces a revolutionary understanding […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 6.More Testimonies About Jesus Recognizing More About Jesus In this lesson, we explore various testimonies about Jesus recorded in the Gospel of John and other Gospels that clearly reveal His true identity and mission. The lesson leads us to the statements of John the […]
6.More Testimonies About Jesus Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
5.6 Summary The Testimony of the Samaritans: How a Personal Testimony Spreads the Gospel In this lesson, we experience the transformative encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, which imparts profound lessons about the Gospel and its impact. Jesus overcomes cultural and […]
5.The Testimony of the Samaritans Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
5.5 The Testimony of the Samaritans The Power of a Personal Testimony: One Woman Changes a City Read John 4:27–29. What did the woman do unexpectedly? In John 4:27–29, something remarkable happens: the woman, who was previously rather reserved and burdened with a difficult past, […]
5.The Testimony of the Samaritans Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
5.4 The Revelation of Jesus The Revelation of the Messiah: An Encounter Beyond Prejudices Read John 4:16–24. What does Jesus do to show this woman that He knows her innermost secrets, and how does she respond? In John 4:16–24, Jesus brings the woman at the […]
5.The Testimony of the Samaritans Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
5.3 “Sir, Give Me This Water” Living Water: From Physical Need to Spiritual Healing To what extent does Ezekiel 36:25–27 reflect the truth that Jesus wanted to convey to Nicodemus and the woman at the well? Ezekiel 36:25–27 describes God’s promise of inner renewal: He […]
5.The Testimony of the Samaritans Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
5.2 The Woman at the Well Living Water: Jesus’ Invitation to Inner Renewal Read John 4:7–15. How did Jesus use this encounter to testify to this woman? In John 4:7–15, Jesus uses His encounter with the woman at the well in a remarkable way to […]
5.The Testimony of the Samaritans Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 5.The Testimony of the Samaritans A simple testimony that moves hearts and overcomes barriers In Lesson 5, we experience one of the most remarkable encounters in the New Testament—the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. This encounter, which transcends all […]
Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.John the Baptist came to prepare the way for Jesus. How successful would you consider his work, at least from a human perspective? When reflecting on your answer, also consider the important question: How do you define “success” in spiritual matters? John the Baptist was […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
4.6 Summary The Diverse Testimonies About Jesus as the Messiah Lesson 4 deals with the diverse testimonies about Jesus Christ as the Messiah presented in the Gospel of John. Through the testimony of John the Baptist, the first disciples, and through the encounters with Nathanael […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
4.5 The Witness of Nicodemus Nicodemus and the Necessity of Spiritual Rebirth Read John 3:1–21. How does Nicodemus’ testimony support the theme of the Gospel of John? Nicodemus, a respected teacher and member of the Sanhedrin, comes to Jesus at night to seek answers to […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
4.4 Philip and Nathanael Nathanael: From Doubt to Faith Read John 1:43–46. What does Philip’s message already reveal about his faith in Jesus? In John 1:43–46, Philip already reveals his deep faith in Jesus. When he tells Nathanael about Jesus, he calls Him “the one […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
4.3 The Two Disciples of John The Disciples Recognize Jesus as the Messiah Read John 1:35–39. What did the two disciples do after they heard John’s testimony about Jesus? In John 1:35–39, we learn that two disciples of John the Baptist—among them Andrew—were standing with […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
4.2 The Lamb of God Jesus, the Lamb of God: The Messiah as a Sacrifice for the World Read John 1:29–37. What announcement does John the Baptist make about Jesus? What image does he use to depict him, and why is this so significant for […]
4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah Jesus Christ – The True Messiah Lesson 4 focuses on the diverse and significant testimonies that point to Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah. In the Gospel of John, we encounter individuals such as John the Baptist and […]
Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Why does John begin by speaking about Jesus in His role as Creator? What does this tell us about the significance of creation in the entire theology? Why is it important that we have a correct understanding of creation as revealed in Holy Scripture? John […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
3.6 Summary The Background of the Gospel: The Prologue and the Divine Word Lesson 3 focuses on the introduction of the Gospel of John, which reveals profound theological truths about Jesus Christ, the eternal Word (Logos). John begins with the statement that Jesus existed from […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith
3.5 Recurring Themes – Glory Recurring Themes: Glory on the Cross Read John 17:1–5. What did Jesus mean when He said, “Father, the hour has come: glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you”? In John 17:1–5, Jesus speaks of His impending “hour” and […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
3.4 Reappearing Themes – Belief and Unbelief The Reaction to the Light Read John 3:16–21, John 9:35–41, and John 12:36–46. How do these texts repeat the theme of faith versus unbelief that appears in the prologue? In John 3:16–21, John 9:35–41, and John 12:36–46, the […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
3.3 Hearing or Not Hearing the Word Hearing the Word or Rejecting It: People’s Reaction to the Light Read John 1:9–13. What bitter reality does John describe here: How do people react to Jesus? In John 1:9–13, John portrays a bitter reality: Although Jesus is […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
3.2 The Word Made Flesh The Word Became Man: God’s Radical Nearness to Us Read John 1:1–3.14. What do these verses tell us about what Jesus, God Himself, did—and why is this truth the most important truth we can ever recognize? John 1:1–3.14 reveals one […]
3.The Backstory: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 3.The Prelude: The Prologue The Divine Revelation: The Prologue in the Gospel of John The introduction to Lesson 3 leads us into the first verses of the Gospel of John, which reveal deep and fundamental truths about Jesus Christ. John does not begin his […]
3.The Prelude: The Prologue Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.This week, we observed how Jesus fed the five thousand, healed a man born blind, and then raised Lazarus from the dead. In each case, Jesus provided strong evidence of His divinity. Yet, these miracles, as astounding as they were, caused division. Some responded with […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
2.6 Summary The Revelation of Jesus’ Divinity through Miracles and Signs In Lesson 2, the focus is on the revelation of Jesus’ divinity through His miraculous signs, as described in the Gospel of John. These signs are not merely miracles in the classical sense but […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
2.5 The Resurrection of Lazarus Jesus’ Power Over Death and the Revelation of His Divinity The raising of Lazarus in John 11 is one of the most profound stories in the Gospel of John, revealing both sorrow and hope. The death of Lazarus brings sadness […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
2.4 The Healing of the Blind Man, Part 2 The Spiritual Blindness of the Pharisees and the Growing Insight of the Healed Man Read John 9:17–34. What questions did the leaders ask, and how did the blind man respond? In John 9:17–34, we witness an […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
2.3 The Healing of the Blind Man, Part 1 The Revelation of God through the Healing of the Blind Man Read John 9:1–16. What did the disciples think was the cause of this man’s blindness, and how did Jesus correct their misconception? In John 9:1–16, […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
2.2 “Surely, He Is the Prophet” Jesus’ Revelation as the True Bread of Life Read John 6:14–15, 6:26–36. How did the people react to Jesus’ miracles, and how did He attempt to use this to teach them who He is? In John 6:14–15, 6:26–36, we […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 2.Signs of Divinity The Revelation of Jesus’ Divinity through His Miracles Lesson 2 focuses on the revelation of Jesus’ divinity through His miracles and signs, as described in the Gospel of John. These miracles are more than just supernatural events—they are messages conveying deeper […]
2.Signs of Divinity Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Reflect on this week’s study guide. Faith was the key that made these healings possible. In contrast, the leaders demonstrated the dangers of doubt and unbelief. Why should we not confuse questions (which we all have) with doubts? Why are they not the same, and […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.6 Summary Miracles That Create Faith Lesson 1 focuses on the miracles of Jesus, which John describes in his Gospel as “signs.” These miracles not only serve to demonstrate Jesus’ divine power but also to strengthen people’s faith and point them to Jesus’ true identity […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.5 Jesus’ Claims The Claim to Divinity Read John 5:16–18. Why was Jesus persecuted for His actions on the Sabbath? The miracle at the Pool of Bethesda provides John with an excellent opportunity not only to describe Jesus’ actions but also to reveal His identity […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.4 Hard Hearts Blindness Despite the Miracle Read John 5:10–16. What lessons can we draw from the remarkable hard-heartedness of the religious leaders toward Jesus and the miracle He had just performed? In John 5:10–16, we observe a remarkable reaction of the religious leaders to […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.3 The Miracle at the Pool of Bethesda Healing Beyond the Expected Read John 5:1–9. Why did Jesus ask the paralyzed man if he wanted to be healed, when it was obvious that everyone at the pool wanted to be healed (John 5:6)? In John […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.2 The Second Sign in Galilee Faith Strengthened by Miracles Read John 4:46–54. Why does the evangelist draw a connection to the miracle at the wedding? In John 4:46–54, the evangelist recounts Jesus’ second sign in Galilee, where He heals the son of a royal […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Lesson 1.Signs That Point the Way The Revelation of Jesus through Miracles The Gospels report many miracles that Jesus performed during His earthly ministry. However, in the Gospel of John, these miracles are not only described as demonstrations of power but also as signs that […]
1.Signs That Point the Way Living Faith THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
1.Why would the disciples have lied about Jesus’ resurrection? Given what we know, they only faced hatred, alienation, and persecution because of their faith. What would they have gained from making up this story? There is no compelling reason why the disciples would have lied […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.6 Summary The Resurrection of Jesus: Hope and Proclamation by the Disciples The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central event of the Christian faith and forms the core of this lesson. The risen Lord first appeared to women, particularly Mary Magdalene, which enhances the […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.5 Go into All the World The Mission to Proclaim: Jesus’ Message to All Nations Read Mark 16:14–20. What did Jesus say to His disciples when He appeared to them, and what do these words mean for us today? In Mark 16:14–20, Jesus appears to […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.4 Appearing to Mary and Others First Witnesses of the Resurrection: The Unexpected Role of Women Read Mark 16:9–20. What do these verses add to the resurrection account? Mark 16:9–20 supplements the resurrection narrative with important encounters of the risen Jesus with His followers, including […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.3 The Women at the Tomb From Silence to Proclamation Read Mark 16:1–8. What happened and how did the women initially react? In Mark 16:1–8, we see the women who go to Jesus’ tomb after the Sabbath to anoint his body, but they encounter an […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.2 The Stone Was Rolled Away Testimonies and Evidence of the Resurrection Read Mark 16:1–8 and 1 Corinthians 15:1–8. What do these passages have in common? In Mark 16:1–8 and 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, we find central elements of the Christian message: death, burial, resurrection, and […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 13.The Risen Lord The Resurrection of Christ: Foundation of Christian Faith and Hope The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith and the central event that brings together the entire story of salvation. In this lesson, we examine the crucial […]
13.The Risen Lord Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.Look at how central the theology of substitution was for Ellen White (and for the Bible, see e.g., Isaiah 53). Why is any theology that downplays the central role of substitution and Christ’s death on our behalf in any way (where He paid the penalty […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
12.6 Summary From Mockery to Redemption: Jesus’ Path to the Cross and Its Significance Lesson 12 focuses on the final hours of Jesus’ life, His condemnation, crucifixion, and burial. These events are marked by deep irony, as Jesus is mocked as the “King of the […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
12.5 Laid to Rest Courage and Testimony: Joseph of Arimathea and the Women at the Tomb Read Mark 15:42–47. What does the intervention of Joseph of Arimathea mean, especially since Jesus’ disciples are nowhere to be seen? In Mark 15:42–47, the intervention of Joseph of […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
12.4 Forsaken by God The Cry of Abandonment: Jesus’ Death as the Key to Redemption Read Mark 15:33–41. What were Jesus’ only words on the cross in the Gospel of Mark? What does Christ’s death ultimately mean for all of us? In Mark 15:33–41, we […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
12.3 The Crucifixion Saving Weakness: The Bitter Irony of Jesus’ Crucifixion Read Mark 15:21–38. What terrible, painful irony is found in this passage? In Mark 15:21–38, we find a deep, painful irony that represents the climax of the Passion narrative. The irony lies in the […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
12.2 Hail, King of the Jews! The Mocked Royal Dignity: Mockery and Deep Truth in the Ridicule of Jesus Read Mark 15:15–20. What did the soldiers do to Jesus and what is the significance of this? In Mark 15:15–20, we witness a scene of brutal […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 12.Tried and Crucified The Court and the Cross: Jesus’ Sacrifice and the Fulfillment of Redemption Lesson 12 leads us into the deepest and simultaneously most meaningful moments of Jesus’ Passion narrative. From His condemnation by Pilate to the crucifixion and burial, we experience the […]
12.Tried and Crucified Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.How can we recognize, solely by reading what Jesus predicted in Mark 14:9, that another of Jesus’ predictions—a highly unlikely prediction given the circumstances under which it was made—is actually being fulfilled? In Mark 14:9, Jesus predicts: “Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
11.6 Summary Betrayal, Denial, and Steadfastness: Jesus’ Path Before the Court Lesson 11 addresses the decisive events in the life of Jesus shortly before his crucifixion, illuminating both the emotional and spiritual dimensions of these events. The lesson is divided into several key sections, each […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
11.5 Who Are You? Courage and Denial: The Contrast Between Jesus’ Steadfastness and Peter’s Weakness Read Mark 14:60–72. Compare how Jesus and Peter reacted to the events. What can we learn from these differences? In Mark 14:60–72, two key figures are at the center: Jesus […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
11.4 Leaving Everything to Flee from Jesus Betrayal and Flight: The Fulfillment of the Divine Plan Despite Human Weakness Read Mark 14:43-52. What happens here that is crucial to the plan of salvation? In Mark 14:43-52, we witness a pivotal moment in the Passion story: […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
11.3 Gethsemane The Cup of Suffering: Jesus’ Prayer and Acceptance of the Divine Will Read Mark 14:32–42. What did Jesus pray in Gethsemane, and how was the prayer answered? In Mark 14:32–42, we see Jesus in one of the most crucial and difficult moments of […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
11.2 The Last Supper The New Covenant: Jesus’ Sacrifice and the Promise of Salvation Read Mark 14:22-31 and Exodus 24:8. What major significance for the Christian faith is found in this account? The passage from Mark 14:22–31 and Exodus 24:8 reveals central aspects of the […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 11.Taken and Tried Betrayal and Faithfulness: Jesus’ Final Path to Crucifixion In Lesson 11, we delve deeply into the decisive final hours of Jesus Christ’s earthly life. These dramatic events begin with His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and lead to His interrogation […]
11.Taken and Tried Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.There is a difference between giving to the work of the Lord and giving sacrificially. What is the difference and why is it important? The difference between “giving to the work of the Lord” and “giving sacrificially” lies in the depth and quality of the […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
10.6 Summary Prophecies About the Last Days – Warnings and Promises Lesson 10 addresses the significant prophecies and teachings of Jesus regarding the end times, particularly concerning His Second Coming and the associated events. This lesson covers the following main themes: The Abomination of Desolation […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
10.5 The Coming of the Son of Man The Promised Coming of the Son of Man – Signs and Promises Read Mark 13:24–32. What great event is described here? Mark 13:24–32 describes one of the most significant events in Christian doctrine: the Second Coming of […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
10.4 The Great Tribulation Warning and Hope in Times of Persecution Read Mark 13:19. What does this verse point to? Mark 13:19 marks a significant transition in Jesus’ prophetic discourse and points to an impending “great distress” that will be greater than anything the world […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
10.3 The Abomination of Desolation The Sign of Destruction – The “Abomination of Desolation” in the Light of Prophecy Read Mark 13:14–18. What hint did Jesus give to understand what the “abomination of desolation” refers to? In Mark 13:14, Jesus mentions the “abomination of desolation,” […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
10.2 Not One Stone Left on Another Unshakable Hope in Times of Upheaval Read Mark 13:1–13. How did the disciples react to Jesus’ statement about the temple, and what is the significance of the response Jesus gave them? The disciples’ reaction to Jesus’ statement about […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 10.The Last Days Prophecies About the End Times – An Overview Lesson 10 introduces us to the profound and prophetic teachings of Jesus concerning the end times and His second coming. This lesson focuses on the pivotal events that will shape world history […]
10.The Last Days Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.7 Questions 1.Reflect on the significance of Jesus cleansing the temple. How could this principle be applied to our church today? How should such a cleansing take place? The cleansing of the temple by Jesus is a powerful symbol of restoring holiness and purity in […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.6 Summary The Triumphal Entry: Jesus’ Public Revelation as Messiah Lesson 9 addresses the intense confrontations Jesus faced with religious leaders during His final days in Jerusalem. It reveals how the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes tried to trap Jesus with tricky questions, hoping to accuse […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.5 The Greatest Commandment The Greatest Commandment: Love for God and Neighbor as the Core of Faith Read Mark 12:28–34. What profound question did the scribe, who was favorably disposed toward Jesus, ask, and what was Jesus’ twofold answer? In Mark 12:28–34, a scribe, who […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.4 Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes Taxes and Resurrection: Jesus’ Wisdom in the Face of Worldly and Spiritual Challenges Read Mark 12:13–27. What happens here, and what does Jesus teach? In Mark 12:13–27, Jesus encounters religious leaders again, who attempt to trap Him with difficult […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.3 Who Said You Could Do That? The Challenge to Authority: Jesus’ Wise Response to the Religious Leaders Read Mark 11:27–33. What challenge did the religious leaders bring to Jesus, and how did He respond? The encounter between Jesus and the religious leaders in the […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
9.2 A Cursed Tree and a Cleansed Temple Symbols of Divine Judgment Read Mark 11:12–26. What is the significance of the events described here? The events in Mark 11:12–26 are deeply symbolic and hold great significance for understanding Jesus’ message. The fig tree and the […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 9.Jerusalem Controversies The Final Journey: Jesus’ Revelation and Challenges in Jerusalem In Lesson 9, we accompany Jesus during the last days of His earthly ministry as He engages in intense confrontations with the religious leaders of His time in Jerusalem. These confrontations are marked […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.7 Questions 1.What are some ways to help children and teenagers stay connected with Christ and the church community? Why is it important to do so? There are several effective ways to help children and teenagers remain connected with Christ and the church community: Fostering […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.6 Summary Lesson of Discipleship: Insight and Devotion This lesson focuses on the challenges and principles of following Jesus as depicted in various episodes from the Gospel of Mark. Jesus’ teachings to His disciples highlight what it means to follow Him, emphasizing humility, sacrifice, and […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.5 “What Do You Want Me to Do for You?” Faith That Sees: Bartimaeus’ Persistent Cry for Healing Read Mark 10:46–52. How did Bartimaeus respond when Jesus passed by? In Mark 10:46–52, the blind Bartimaeus demonstrates a powerful example of faith, persistence, and a deep […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.4 Can You Drink My Cup? The True Meaning of Discipleship: Power through Service Read Mark 10:32–45. In what ways do these verses demonstrate the disciples’ persistent ignorance, not only regarding Jesus’ mission but also about what it means to follow Him? In Mark 10:32–45, […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.3 The Best Investment The True Cost of Discipleship: Wealth vs. Devotion Read Mark 10:17–31. What important lessons about faith and the price of discipleship are revealed here for everyone, regardless of wealth or poverty? In Mark 10:17–31, we encounter a profound teaching about faith, […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
8.2 Jesus and Children Jesus’ Love and Appreciation for Children Read Mark 10:13–16. What did Jesus do for those who brought their children to him? In Mark 10:13–16, Jesus demonstrates profound affection and appreciation for children, who were often overlooked and undervalued in that society. […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 8.Teaching Disciples, Part 2 The Challenges and Treasures of Following Jesus In the continuation of our study on being a disciple, Lesson 8 delves into some of the most challenging and transformative teachings of Jesus. The path of discipleship is not an easy one, […]
8.Teaching Disciples: Part II Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.Read Mark 8:27–29 again. How often do you confess your faith in Jesus as the Christ before others? Mark 8:27–29 describes a pivotal moment when Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is and then who they believe He is. Peter answers, “You are […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
7.6 Summary The Essence of Discipleship: Learning, Serving, and Following This lesson focuses on the central role that teaching and learning play in the life of a disciple of Jesus. Being a disciple is not just about following but also about continually striving to deepen […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
7.5 The Healthy Man in Hell The Radical Urgency of Avoiding Sin Read Mark 9:42–50. What do the teachings of Jesus in this passage have in common? At first glance, Mark 9:42–50 might seem like a collection of loosely connected teachings, but a closer examination […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
7.4 Who Is the Greatest? True Greatness in the Kingdom of God: Humility and Service Instead of Ambition Read Mark 9:30–41. How does Jesus’ second prediction of His death and resurrection differ from the first one (cf. Mk 8:31)? What are the disciples arguing about, […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
7.3 The Mountain and the Multitude The Transfiguration: A Glimpse of Jesus’ Glory and the Coming Kingdom Read Mark 9:1–13. What did Peter, James, and John see one night with Jesus? In Mark 9:1–13, Peter, James, and John experience something extraordinary: they see Jesus in […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
7.2 The Cost of Discipleship The Way of the Cross: The Cost and Value of Discipleship Read Mark 8:31–38. What does Jesus teach here about the cost of discipleship? In Mark 8:31–38, Jesus confronts His disciples with a harsh truth: following Him comes at a […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 7.Teaching Disciples, Part 1 Jesus’ Guidance for True Discipleship In this lesson, we focus on a central aspect of Christian discipleship: teaching and the responsibility that comes with it. Being a disciple of Jesus means more than just following; it means being a lifelong […]
7.Teaching Disciples: Part I Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.What Christian practices have you found that help keep the heart pure? Some Christian practices that can help keep the heart pure include: Daily Prayer: Regular prayer is a powerful way to align the heart with God. It helps focus on God’s will, express gratitude, […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
6.6 Summary The Heart Over Tradition: Jesus’ Teachings on True Purity and Faith This lesson focuses on the confrontation between human traditions and divine commandments, the true meaning of purity, the universal reach of God’s grace, and the need for spiritual vigilance. Jesus criticizes the […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
6.5 Watch Out for Bad Bread Beware of False Influence: Jesus’ Warning About the Leaven of the Pharisees Read Mark 8:11–13. What action of the Pharisees deeply disappointed Jesus? In Mark 8:11–13, we see how the Pharisees approach Jesus and demand a sign from heaven […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
6.4 Tongue-tied The Power of Touch: Jesus’ Healing of the Deaf and Mute Man Read Mark 7:31–37. Who was brought to Jesus, and what did Jesus do for him? In Mark 7:31–37, we read about the healing of a man who was deaf and could […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
6.3 Crumbs for the Dogs Faith Knows No Boundaries: The Lesson of the Canaanite Woman Read Mark 7:24–30. What important lessons can be found in this account? The account in Mark 7:24–30 of Jesus’ encounter with the Syrophoenician woman is remarkable and instructive. At first, […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
6.2 Clean Hands or Clean Heart? What Really Matters? Read Mark 7:14–19. What did Jesus mean by the riddle in Mark 7:15? In Mark 7:14–19, Jesus explains an important principle that reveals deeper insights into the true meaning of purity. His statement that nothing that […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 6.Inside Out God’s Commandments Over Traditions: The True Source of Purity and Faith In this lesson, we are confronted with the fundamental question: What is true faith, and what does it mean to be truly pure before God? Jesus demonstrated through His teachings and […]
6.Inside Out Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.If someone asked you, “What has Jesus freed you from?” what would you say? Jesus has freed me from the burden of sin and the associated guilt. He has opened my eyes to the truth and led me out of the darkness of doubt and […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
5.6 Summary Jesus’ Divine Power and Compassion at the Sea of Galilee In Lesson 5, we explored various stories from the Gospel of Mark that highlight Jesus’ mission and the reactions of people to his actions. Here are the key points summarized: Calming the Storm […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
5.5 A Different Kind of Messiah A Different Kind of Messiah: Jesus’ Miraculous Feeding of the 5000 and the Revelation of His True Mission Read Mark 6:34–52. What problem did Jesus and his disciples face, and how was it solved? In Mark 6:34–52, we witness […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
5.4 Rejection and Reception Rejection in Nazareth: The Difficulty of Accepting Jesus as Teacher and Healer Read Mark 6:1–6. Why did the people from Jesus’ hometown reject him? In Mark 6:1–6, Jesus returns to his hometown of Nazareth, only to be rejected by the people […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
5.3 On the Roller Coaster With Jesus The Desperate Plea: Jairus Kneels Before Jesus to Beg for Help for His Dying Daughter Read Mark 5:21–24. What qualities stand out in Jairus? In Mark 5:21–24, we meet Jairus, one of the synagogue leaders, who comes to […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
5.2 Can You Hear a Whisper Above a Shout? The Quiet Power of Jesus: Hearing the Whisper for Help Over the Scream of Demons Read Mark 5:1–20. What can we learn from this astonishing account about the Great Controversy and, once again, about the power […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 5.Miracles Around the Lake Jesus’ Miracles at the Sea of Galilee: Revelation of His Divine Power and Mercy Welcome to Lesson 5, where we delve deeply into the Gospel of Mark to better understand the nature and mission of Jesus and to discover how […]
5.Miracles Around the Lake Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.”Love must be the driving force behind everything we do. According to the principle of love, God governs heaven and earth.” How does the cross reveal this amazing truth? How can we reflect this kind of love in our lives? Why must we do this? […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
4.6 Summary Revelation and Growth of the Kingdom of God 4.1 The Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:1–9) Main Points: Different Soils: Jesus describes four types of soil on which the seed falls: the path, rocky soil, thorny soil, and good soil. Symbolism: The soils […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
4.5 Parables of Growing Seed Growth and Greatness of the Kingdom of God Read Mark 4:26–29. What is the focus of this parable? Focus of the Parable: The parable of the growing seed highlights the growth process of the Kingdom of God. Jesus uses this […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
4.4 Lamp and Measuring Basket Openness and Receptivity to the Truth Read Mark 4:21–23. What is Jesus particularly emphasizing in the Parable of the Lamp? In Mark 4:21–23, Jesus emphasizes the importance of light and its purpose to shine and illuminate everything. He poses two […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
4.3 The Reason for the Parables The Purpose of Jesus’ Parables Read Mark 4:10–12. Why did Jesus teach in parables? Upon reading Mark 4:10–12, one might get the impression that Jesus taught in parables to deliberately keep outsiders in the dark. However, such an interpretation […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
4.2 Jesus’ Interpretation Jesus’ Explanation of the Parable of the Sower Read Mark 4:13-20. How did Jesus interpret the parable of the sower? After Jesus told the parable of the sower to a large crowd, he later explained it to a smaller group of his […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 4.Parables The Revelation of the Kingdom of God through Jesus’ Parables In Lesson 4, we delve into the fascinating world of Jesus’ parables. These stories, told in simple images and everyday scenes, contain profound spiritual truths and teach us about the nature of the […]
4.Parables Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.What strategies or practices help you and your local church stay sensitive to silently suffering individuals like the paralytic in Mark 2? To remain sensitive to silently suffering individuals like the paralytic in Mark 2, we and our local church can apply various strategies and […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
3.6 Summary Jesus’ Conflicts with the Religious Leaders Lesson 3 in the Gospel of Mark highlights the various controversies Jesus experienced with the religious leaders and his own family. These controversies reveal deep truths about Jesus’ mission, the nature of faith, and the true meaning […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
3.5 Sandwich Story, Part 2 Jesus’ Family and the Misunderstandings of His Mission Read Mark 3:20-21. What incident led Jesus’ family to call him “out of his mind”? In Mark 3:20-21, we see the beginning of the “sandwich report,” where Jesus’ family considers him “out […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
3.4 Sandwich Story, Part 1 Jesus’ Relatives and the Accusation of the Scribes Read Mark 3:20-25. What connection do you see between the intertwined accounts in this section? In Mark 3:20-25, we encounter the first “sandwich report” in the Gospel of Mark, a literary technique […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
3.3 The Lord of the Sabbath Jesus and the True Meaning of the Sabbath Read Mark 2:23-28. How does Jesus respond to the Pharisees’ accusation? In Mark 2:23-28, we see the Pharisees accusing Jesus’ disciples of breaking the Sabbath by picking grain on the Sabbath. […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
3.2 Calling Levi and the Question of Fasting The Calling of Levi and Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting Read Mark 2:13-22. Who was Levi, the son of Alphaeus, and why were there objections to him becoming a follower of Jesus? In Mark 2:13-22, we meet Levi, […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 3.Controversies The Controversies Surrounding Jesus’ Ministry In Lesson 3 of the Gospel of Mark, we encounter a series of controversies that Jesus faced with the religious leaders and his own family. These disputes reveal not only the challenges that Jesus encountered in his earthly […]
3.Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.Discuss the question of prayer and why it is so important for the Christian life. What questions do people have about the purpose and effectiveness of prayer? Prayer is a central part of the Christian faith and holds fundamental importance in spiritual practice. It serves […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
2.6 Summary A Day in the Life of Jesus: Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer Key Points and Spiritual Lessons: Jesus’ Authority and Teaching (Mark 1:21–28): Jesus taught with an authority that astonished people and was markedly different from that of the scribes. His words had […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
2.5 Can You Keep a Secret? Compassion and Healing: Jesus’ Approach to the Outcast Read Mark 1:40–45. What does this teach us about Jesus and how He dealt with people on the margins of society? In Mark 1:40–45, we see Jesus encountering and healing a […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
2.4 The Secret of Jesus’ Ministry Prayer as a Source of Strength: Jesus’ Withdrawal and Focus in Ministry Read Mark 1:35–39. What important lessons can we learn from what Jesus did here? In Mark 1:35–39, a crucial aspect of Jesus’ ministry is revealed: His intense […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
2.3 More Sabbath Ministry Healing and Service: Jesus’ Help for Peter’s Family Read Mark 1:29–34. How did Jesus help Peter’s family, and what spiritual lessons can we draw from this account? In Mark 1:29–34, we see how Jesus, after the impressive worship service in the […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
2.2 An Unforgettable Worship Service Jesus’ Power Revealed: An Unforgettable Sabbath in Capernaum Read Mark 1:21–28. What unforgettable event took place in the synagogue of Capernaum, and what spiritual lessons can we draw from this account? In Mark 1:21–28, we read about an unforgettable event […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer In this lesson, we delve into a typical day in the ministry of Jesus as described in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 1:21–45). This passage gives us a fascinating insight into the […]
2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.Compare John the Baptist and Jesus in Mark 1:1-13 and contrast them. What special lessons do you draw from the way they are depicted? In the first 13 verses of the Gospel of Mark, John the Baptist and Jesus are introduced and depicted in a […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.6 Summary Jesus’ Early Ministry The Failed Missionary John Mark is introduced as the son of Mary, a wealthy supporter of the early church. Despite his initial failure when he withdrew from Paul and Barnabas’s first missionary journey, John Mark later plays a significant role […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.5 The Gospel According to Jesus The Gospel According to Jesus: Fulfillment, Kingdom, and Call to Repentance Read Mark 1:14–15. What three components made up Jesus’ gospel message? Mark summarizes Jesus’ simple and direct message in three essential parts: Prophecy of Time: “The time is […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.4 Jesus’ Baptism The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus Read Mark 1:9-13. Who is present at the baptism of Jesus and what happens? In Mark 1:9-13, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan is described. Here are the main points: John the Baptist baptizes Jesus […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.3 The Messenger John the Baptist: Preparing the Way Read Mark 1:1-8. Who are the people in these verses? What do they say and do? In these verses, there are three main characters: Jesus Christ, God the Father, and John the Baptist. Jesus Christ: Mention: […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
1.2 A Second Chance The Redemption of John Mark Read Acts 15:36–39. Why did Paul reject John Mark, and why did Barnabas give him a second chance? In Acts 15:36–39, we see a significant disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. Paul rejected John Mark because he […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
Lesson 1.The Beginning of the Gospel Jesus’ Early Ministry in Mark The Gospel of Mark opens with powerful and significant events that mark the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and the proclamation of his message. These first chapters offer us valuable insights into the beginnings […]
1.The Beginning of the Gospel Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
13.6 Summary The Triumph of God’s Love: Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny Lesson 13 highlights the triumph of God’s love over sin and death by examining biblical prophecies and their fulfillment in the final events of human history. Hope in Difficult Times (Revelation 22:11-12; […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
13.5 Two Eternities The Final Destiny of the Righteous and the Wicked Read 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10-11; and Revelation 20:11-15. Why are the wicked raised to life again according to these verses? 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
13.4 Judgment in the Millennium Divine Justice and the Clarification of All Questions Read Revelation 20:4-6. What do the righteous do during the 1000 years, and why is this important? Revelation 20:4-6 reads: “I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
13.3 The Millennium on Earth Satan’s Imprisonment and the Revelation of Divine Justice Read Revelation 20:1-3. What is Satan’s fate when Jesus returns? Revelation 20:1-3 reads: “And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
13.2 Hope in Jesus’ Soon Return Comfort and Confidence in Troubling Times Read John 14:1-3 and Titus 2:11-14. Why are these verses particularly encouraging in light of future challenges and the coming time of tribulation? The verses John 14:1-3 and Titus 2:11-14 offer a powerful […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 13.The Triumph of God’s Love Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny Welcome to the final lesson of our study on Revelation and End-Time Prophecy. In this concluding lesson, we focus on the ultimate theme of the Bible: the triumph of God’s love over sin, […]
13.The Triumph of God’s Love Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
12.6 Summary Faithfulness, Outpouring of the Spirit, and Worldwide Proclamation The lesson “The Last Events of Earth” deals with end-time prophecy and the final events that will occur according to biblical teaching. It emphasizes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the loud cry, and the […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
12.5 The Loud Cry The Final Proclamation of the Gospel Read Revelation 18:1–4; Habakkuk 2:14; and Matthew 24:14. How is God’s work on earth said to be completed according to these verses? In Revelation, the angel announces the fall of Babylon and proclaims the glory […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
12.4 The Early and Latter Rain The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Read Joel 2:21–24 and Acts 2:1–4, 41–47. Which prediction was fulfilled in the first century? How did this impact? The fulfillment of Joel’s prediction of the early rain demonstrates the powerful effect of […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
12.3 Whom Do We Worship? The Decision in the Great Conflict In the last days, the battle for true worship will take place dramatically. Do we worship the Creator or do we worship the beast and its image? There is no middle ground. The first […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
12.2 Sealed for Heaven The Sign of Faithfulness in the Final Conflict In the upcoming crisis of worship, the faithful people of God will not succumb to worldly pressure. They will be sealed by the Holy Spirit and remain steadfast by adhering to God’s law […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 12.Earth’s Closing Events Faithfulness, Outpouring of the Spirit, and the Ultimate Call In Lesson 12, we will delve into an extremely important topic: the last events of the Earth. The prophecy of the Bible gives us insight into the end-time events that will unfold […]
12.Earth’s Closing Events Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
11.6 Summary Preparation for the End-Time Conflict: Identification and Steadfastness Lesson 11 focuses on the Book of Revelation, specifically chapters 13 and 14. Here is a summary of the key points: The Beast from the Sea (Revelation 13:1-10): The first beast is interpreted as a […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
11.5 The Beast from the Earth The Second Beast: The USA and Its Prophetic Significance Read Revelation 13:11–18. How does this second beast differ from the first beast in Revelation 13? Differences between the first and second beasts in Revelation 13: Origin: First Beast: Comes […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
11.4 Identifying the Beast, Part 2 Prophetic Fulfillment and Future Developments Read Revelation 13:5. Write down this identifying characteristic: Identifying characteristic from Revelation 13:5: “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months.” […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
11.3 Identifying the Beast, Part 1 Origin and Authority of Power in Revelation Read Revelation 13:1-2. Where does this beast come from, and who grants it authority? The beast in Revelation 13:1-2 rises from the sea and receives its power and authority from the dragon. […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
11.2 The Coming Crisis The Climax in the Cosmic Struggle between Worship and Coercion The prophecy about the mark of the beast in Revelation 13 describes the most intense phase of Satan’s war against God and His people. Since the death of Jesus on the […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 11.The Impending Conflict Deciphering the End-Time Conflict: Worship, Identity, and Steadfastness Lesson 11 introduces us to the fascinating world of Revelation and its prophetic statements about the impending conflict. Revelation is a book full of symbols, images, and visions that provide insights into the […]
11.The Impending Conflict Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
10.6 Summary The Biblical Truth About Spiritism and the Need to Stand Firm Spiritism poses dangerous consequences as it leads people away from God and lulls them into a false sense of spiritual security. The Bible warns against such practices, stating that they are inspired […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
10.5 Spiritualism in the Last Days: Part 2 Preserving Hope and Faith Amid End-Time Deceptions Our hope of salvation is firmly anchored in Christ. His bloodstained hands, nailed to the cross for us, call us to accept the sacrifice He made for us—an infinitely precious […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
10.4 Spiritualism in the Last Days: Part 1 The Seductive Power of Supernatural Deceptions Read Matthew 24:5, 11, 24; 2 Thessalonians 2:7–9; and Revelation 13:13–14; 16:13–14. What kinds of deceptions will people experience in the end times? The Bible passages you mentioned describe various types […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
10.3 Death in the New Testament Hope for Resurrection and Eternal Life in Christ Read John 11:11-14, 21-25; 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54, and 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17. How can the descriptions of death by the authors of the New Testament be compared to those […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
10.2 Death in the Old Testament A Biblical Perspective on Life After Death Read Psalm 6:6; 115:17; and 1 Kings 2:10; 11:43; 14:20. What do these verses teach about the state of the dead? The verses Psalm 6:6; 115:17; and 1 Kings 2:10; 11:43; 14:20 […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 10.Spiritualism Exposed Biblical Truth Against End-Time Deceptions In a world increasingly characterized by spiritual deceptions and supernatural phenomena, it is becoming ever more important to understand the truth about spiritism and its dangers. Lesson 10, “Exposing Spiritism,” provides an in-depth examination of the deadly […]
10.Spiritualism Exposed Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
9.6 Summary A Look at Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict Lesson 9 explores the foundation of God’s government, particularly through examining the three angels’ messages in Revelation 14. These messages call people to decide between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast. The first angel […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
9.5 The Three Angels’ Messages The Choice between Worship of the Creator and the Beast The message of the three angels in Revelation 14, particularly the proclamations of the first and second angels, presents an urgent call to decision and true worship. The first angel […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
9.4 The Mark of the Beast The End-Time Conflict: Loyalty to God’s Commandments versus the Mark of the Beast Read Revelation 12:12, 17, and 13:7. How do these verses reveal Satan’s wrath? Why is the Devil so angry with God’s end-time people? Revelation 12:12: “Therefore […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
9.3 The Sabbath and the Law The Sabbath: Connection of Creation and God’s Law Read Revelation 14:6–7; 4:11; Genesis 2:1–3, and Exodus 20:8–11. What relationship exists between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law? The connection between creation, the Sabbath, and God’s law is fundamental to […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
9.2 The Immutability of God’s Law The Eternal Validity of God’s Law in Christian Faith Read Matthew 5:17–18; Psalm 111:7–8; Ecclesiastes 12:13–14; 1 John 5:3, and Proverbs 28:9. What do these verses teach us about the Christian’s relationship to the law? The mentioned verses provide […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 9.The Foundation of God’s Government The Fundamentals of Faith: Law, Sabbath, and End-Time Conflict In the ninth lesson of our study series, we delve into the fundamental principles that form the foundation of God’s rule and sovereignty. This lesson is titled “The Foundation of […]
9.The Foundation of God’s Government Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
8.6 Summary The Sanctuary: Center of Redemption and Intercession Lesson 8, “Light from the Sanctuary,” emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ ministry as the High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. By considering Hebrews 10:9–14 and Hebrews 6:19–20, it becomes clear that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
8.5 Jesus, Our Advocate in the Judgment The Immeasurable Grace: Jesus’ Intercession and Perfection Read Hebrews 10:9–14. What difference between the service of the priest in the earthly sanctuary and the service of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary does this passage reveal? Differences between the […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
8.4 The Good News from the Most Holy Place Redemption in the Most Holy Place: Invitation to Forgiveness and Obedience Read Hebrews 4:14–16 and 10:19–22. What assurance and divine invitation are contained in these verses for each of us? Assurance: Jesus as Our High Priest: […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
8.3 The Judgment Has Come The Inevitable Judgment: Prepared through Christ Compare Daniel 7:9–10 with Revelation 14:6–7. What similarity exists between these two passages? Daniel 7:9-10 and Revelation 14:6-7 share some remarkable similarities, especially in their depiction of judgment scenes and the emphasis on God’s […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
8.2 In the Holy of Holies The Day of Atonement: Repentance, Cleansing, and Christ’s Representation Read Leviticus 16:21, 29–34; 23:26–32 and Hebrews 9:23–28. Why was the Day of Atonement very important for ancient Israel? The Day of Atonement, also known as Yom Kippur, was of […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 8.Light from the Sanctuary Light and Redemption from the Sanctuary: Jesus’ Intercession and Perfection In Lesson 8, we delve deeper into the understanding of the sanctuary, a central theme in biblical theology. The sanctuary served as a place of God’s presence and as the […]
8.Light From the Sanctuary Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
7.6 Summary Hope that Inspires: Prophetic Time and Christ’s Return Lesson 7 is a fascinating journey through the prophetic time periods mentioned in the Bible, particularly focusing on the examination of Daniel 8:14 and other relevant texts. In this lesson, we learn how believers like […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
7.5 The Longest Prophetic Time Line The Timeframe of Prophecy: Daniel 8:14 and the Advent Movement Read Ezra 7:7–13. When was the decree issued allowing the Israelite captives in Persia to return to rebuild their temple? The decree allowing the Israelite captives in Persia to […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
7.4 The 2300 Days in Daniel 8:14 Unlocking Prophetic Time: William Miller’s Quest for Understanding William Miller’s realization about the fulfillment of prophetic predictions is a powerful testimony to God’s faithfulness and the reliability of His promises. Through the study of the Holy Scriptures, he […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
7.3 William Miller and the Bible The Biblical Journey of Discovery: William Miller and Understanding Christ’s Return The story of William Miller serves as an inspiring example of how an ordinary man, through diligent study of the Bible and prayer, was used by God to […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
7.2 Anticipating the Time Christ’s Return: Clarity Amidst Human Misunderstandings Understanding Christ’s return has undergone various interpretations over time. While the Protestant reformers believed in the literal, visible, and glorious return of Christ, this understanding evolved throughout history. In the 19th century, popular preachers often […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 7.Motivated by Hope The Hope of Christ’s Return: Light in Dark Times Motivated by Hope Hope of Christ’s Return: Light in Dark Times In Lesson 7, we embark on a fascinating journey through prophetic timelines, delving deeper into the mysteries and revelations of the […]
7.Motivated by Hope Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
6.6 Summary The Victory of Truth: The Prophecy and Fulfillment of the Two Witnesses Lesson 6 mainly focuses on Revelation 11 and the symbolic significance of the two witnesses mentioned in this chapter. These witnesses represent the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, embodying […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
6.5 Truth Triumphs The Dominion of Christ and the Seal of the Law Read Revelation 11:15–18. What events take place at the end of time when the seventh trumpet sounds, according to these verses? Revelation 11:15–18 describes what happens at the end of time when […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
6.4 The Two Witnesses are Resurrected The Revival of Truth: The Resurrection of the Two Witnesses Read Revelation 11:11. What predictions does this verse make regarding the Word of God? Revelation 11:11 says: “But after the three and a half days a breath of life […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
6.3 The Two Witnesses Are Killed The Martyrdom of Truth: The Killing of the Two Witnesses Read Revelation 11:7–9, keeping in mind that the language is symbolic. According to the prediction of these verses, what will happen to the two witnesses of God, representing the […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
6.2 Prophetic Time Periods The Continuity of Divine Faithfulness Amidst Darkness Compare Revelation 11:3; 12:5–6, 14–15 with Daniel 7:25. What similarities do you see in these prophetic time periods? In the prophetic time periods described in Revelation 11:3; 12:5-6, 14-15 and Daniel 7:25, there are […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 6.The Two Witnesses Bearers of Divine Truth and Triumph The sixth lesson of our study series delves deeper into the fascinating world of Revelation, a book full of symbols, prophecies, and divine revelations. In this lesson, we will focus on Revelation chapter 11, particularly […]
6.The Two Witnesses Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
5.6 Summary Strength and hope through unwavering faith in challenging times In the lesson “Faith Despite Adversity,” the unshakeable power of faith under the harshest circumstances is illuminated. Inspired by the experiences of reformers like Martin Luther and John Wesley, as well as by biblical […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
5.5 Obedience: The Fruit of Faith Transformation through grace: Christ as the center of our faith and life Read Romans 3:27–31; 6:15–18; 8:1–2. What do these verses teach us about salvation through Christ’s righteousness alone? The given Bible verses from the book of Romans offer […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
5.4 Christ Alone … Grace Alone Saving Grace: Christ alone as the source of redemption Passages from the Bible: Ephesians 2:8–9; Romans 3:23–24; 6:23; 5:8–10. What do these verses teach us about the plan of salvation? The mentioned Bible verses and the explanations provided offer […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
5.3 Enlightened by the Spirit The role of the Holy Spirit in proper Bible interpretation and faith leadership The story of Martin Luther and his experience in the university library is a vivid example of how the Holy Spirit can work through the Word of […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
5.2 Passing on God’s Word Unwavering faith and sacrifice: The legacy of spreading God’s Word Read 2 Corinthians 4:1–6 and 2:14. What do these verses tell us about the confidence Paul had despite the problems he encountered in preaching the Word of God? Reading 2 […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 5: Faith Against All Odds God’s Unwavering Faithfulness: Strength, Protection, and Hope Amid Challenges Welcome to the fifth lesson of our study series! Today, we delve into the profound topic of “Faith Against All Odds.” Life is full of challenges, trials, and times when […]
5.Faith Against All Odds Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
4.6 Summary Steadfastness and Hope: The Legacy of Faith in Times of Persecution and Darkness The fourth lesson focuses on the deep spiritual resilience and determination of the Waldensians and reformers during times of persecution and uncertainty. Starting with “Persecuted, Yet Victorious” (4.1), the courageous […]
4.Standing for the Truth Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
4.4 The Morning Star of the Reformation The Beacon of the Reformation: Passion for God’s Word Read Psalm 19:8–12; 119:140,162 and Jeremiah 15:16. What similar attitudes did David and Jeremiah have towards the Word of God that essentially laid the foundation for the Reformation? The […]
4.Standing for the Truth Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
4.3 Courage to Stand Unwavering Faith in Times of Darkness Compare Acts 5:28–32; Ephesians 6:10–12; and Revelation 3:11. What fundamental principle is contained in these texts? The mentioned Bible verses convey a central principle: Loyalty to God and His Word over human authorities and against […]
4.Standing for the Truth Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
4.2 Light Vanquishes the Darkness The Triumph of Faith over Misconceptions and the Eternal Hope of the Faithful Read Jude 3-4. What is the warning here, and how did it apply to the later Christian Church? The warning in these verses pertains to false teachers […]
4.Standing for the Truth Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 4. Standing for the Truth Steadfast in Darkness: Courage, Renewal, and the Radiance of Faith In a world that is constantly changing, where different opinions and values often clash, standing up for truth becomes an increasingly important task for Christians. The history of Christianity […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
3.6 Summary Light in the Eternal Struggle The lesson “Light shines in darkness” highlights the importance of spiritual vigilance and understanding divine truth in a world characterized by deception and seduction. Compromises, Satan’s cunning strategy: The significance of distinguishing between Jesus’ truth and Satan’s lies […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
3.5 Battle for the Mind In the Light of the Gospel Against the Darkness of Doubt Read 2 Corinthians 4:3–6. What does it mean: “whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
3.4 Human Reasoning Apart From Scripture Divine Orientation in a Confusing World Read Proverbs 16:25; Judges 21:25, and Isaiah 53:6. What do they reveal about Satan’s strategy of deception? The given Bible verses offer profound insights into Satan’s strategy of deception and the necessity to […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
3.3 Safeguarded by the Word The Unwavering Foundation: Scripture as a Shield Against Deceptions Compare John 17:15-17 and Acts 20:32. What insights do Jesus and Apostle Paul provide us regarding protection against Satan’s deceptions? The cited Bible verses emphasize the central role of Scripture in […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
3.2 Savage Wolves Paul’s Urgent Admonition: Vigilance Against Internal and External Threats to the Church Read Acts 20:27-32. What specific warnings did Apostle Paul give to the church leaders of Ephesus regarding the upcoming apostasy? In these verses, Apostle Paul gives specific warnings to the […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 3: Light Shines in the Darkness Light in Darkness: Vigilance and Truth in a Changing World In Lesson 3, we delve deeper into the interplay of truth and deception as depicted in the Bible. Referring to the words of Jesus and the writings of […]
3.Light Shines in the Darkness Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
2.6 Summary The Heart of the Christian Faith: Love, Care, and Resistance Against Selfishness The second lesson focused on the central theme of Christianity: the choice between love and selfishness. The various units of this lesson demonstrated: A Savior with a Broken Heart: The deep […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
2.5 A Legacy of Love Love as the Hallmark of True Christianity: A Legacy of Compassion and Selflessness Read John 13:35 and 1 John 4:21. What do these verses reveal about the challenge to God’s rule by Satan in the Great Controversy? What do they […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
2.4 Caring for the Community Active Compassion and Holistic Healing: Authentic Christianity of the Early Church Emphasizing care for the community was a central feature of the early Christian communities and remains a timeless lesson for today’s church. Here are some key thoughts on this: […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
2.3 Faithful Amid Persecution Unwavering Faith and Rapid Growth: Early Christianity Amidst Persecution Read Acts 2:41; 4:4,31; 5:42, and 8:1–8. What do these verses teach us about the challenges faced by the early church and why it grew so quickly? The mentioned verses from the […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
2.2 Christians Providentially Preserved God’s Sovereign Guidance: Protection and Preservation of His Church The section “Christians Preserved by Providence” sheds light on an impressive example of God’s mercy and care towards His people. In the dramatic events surrounding the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, God’s […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? The Heart of Christianity: Love, Resistance, and Community in the Early Church Warm welcome to the second lesson of our comprehensive thematic cycle “From Shadow to Light.” In this lesson, we will delve deeply into an essential question […]
2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness? Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
1.6 Summary Cosmic Conflicts and the Path to Redemption Lesson 1 focuses on the central theological perspective of the great battle between good and evil as portrayed in the Bible. The lesson begins with the depiction of the origin of evil and how it has […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
1.5 Our High Priest The High Priest of Our Trust: Jesus’ Intercession and Care Read Hebrews 4:15-16 and 7:25. How do these verses give us confidence in a world full of temptation, suffering, illness, and death? The mentioned verses from the Book of Hebrews indeed […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
1.4 Love Finds a Way Hope Through the Cross: God’s Unconditional Love Manifested The story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is not just a tale of sin and fall, but also a story of God’s infinite love and hope for humanity. […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
1.3 Planet Earth Becomes Involved The Decision at the Tree: Origin of Sin and Suffering This section emphasizes the significance of human freedom and free will that God has granted both in heaven and on earth. It also showcases the subtle yet powerful nature of […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
1.2 Lucifer Deceives; Christ Prevails The Cosmic Conflict: Choosing Between Light and Darkness Read Revelation 12:4. What does this passage reveal about Satan’s ability to deceive? How many of the angels fell for his lies about God? The conflict between Lucifer and Christ is one […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
Lesson 1. The War Behind All Wars The Cosmic Conflict: Origin, Impact, and Hope of Redemption In our fast-paced and often challenging world today, it’s easy to get lost in daily worries and distractions. However, behind the visible wars, conflicts, and challenges of life lies […]
1.The War Behind All Wars Living Faith THE GREAT CONTROVERSY
13.6 Summary Waiting on God’s Time: Patience and Trust Amidst Challenges The summary of Lesson 13, “Wait for the Lord,” involves an in-depth examination of various biblical passages and their application to the daily lives of believers. The lesson emphasizes the importance of patiently waiting […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
13.5 Joy Comes in the Morning Divine Redemption in the Morning Light: The Symbolism of Morning in the Bible Read Mark 16:1–8. What happened on the morning referred to here, and why is it very important for us? Mark 16:1–8 recounts what happened on the […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
13.4 Waiting in God’s Sabbath Rest The Two Sides of the Sabbath: Creation and Dedication Read Psalm 92. What two aspects of the Sabbath are emphasized in this Sabbath song? In Psalm 92, two aspects of the Sabbath are emphasized: God’s Creation and Preservation: The […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
13.3 Bringing in the Sheaves The Power of Remembrance: Hope from Past Deeds of God Read Psalm 126. What gives strength and hope to God’s people? What is said here, in this context, that we can transfer to our lives today? Psalm 126 expresses the […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
13.2 Peace of a Weaned Child Resting in God: The Humility of a Quietened Child Read Psalm 131. What does this Psalm teach us about our relationship with God? Psalm 131 teaches us about our relationship with God in various ways: Humility and dependence: The […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 13: Wait on the Lord The Power of Patient Waiting: Trusting in God’s Timing and Guidance In the spiritual journey of a believer, waiting plays a prominent role. The Bible is rich in stories of people who patiently waited on God while facing life’s […]
13.Wait on the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
12.6 Summary The Essence of Worship: Diversity, Authenticity, and Spirituality Lesson 12 addresses the topic of true worship and the importance of sincere devotion of the heart to God. By examining various Psalms (especially Psalm 40, Psalm 50, and Psalm 51) as well as the […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
12.5 When God Does Not Delight in Sacrifices Hypocrisy in Worship: The Warning of the Psalms and the Teachings of Jesus Read Psalm 40:7–9; 50:7–23 and 51:18–21. What important theme do these Psalms address? Why does God not find pleasing the sacrifices He prescribed in […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.4 Declare His Glory Among the Nations The Diversity of Worship: Singing, Praising, and Evangelizing Among the Nations Read Psalm 96. What diverse aspects of worship are mentioned in this Psalm? Psalm 96 mentions various aspects of worship, encompassing a wide range of actions and […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
12.3 Lord, Who May Abide in Your Tabernacle? Holiness in Worship: The Conditions for Entering God’s Presence Read Psalm 15. Who are those worthy to worship in God’s presence? Those worthy to worship in God’s presence are described in Psalm 15. They are individuals whose […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
12.2 Sing to the Lord a New Song The Freshness of Worship: The New Song as an Expression of the Living Relationship with God Read Psalm 33:3; 40:4; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9 and 149:1. What motif do these verses have in common? The mentioned verses from […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 12: Worship That Never Ends The Diversity and Depth of Worship: Lessons from the Psalms and the Bible Lesson 12 of our study delves into the profound theme of true worship and demonstrates how it should be rooted in our daily lives. As we […]
12.Worship That Never Ends Living Faith PSALMS 1
11.6 Summary Hope in God in Zion: An Overview Lesson 11 revolves around the longing for God and the search for a place of rest and security. By examining Psalms 87, 46, and 125, we learn that Zion is not only a physical location but […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
11.5 Safety and Peace of Zion Steadfastness amid Trials: The Certainty of Believers, like Mount Zion Read Psalm 125:1–2. How are those who trust in God portrayed here? Those who trust in the Lord are compared to Mount Zion in Psalm 125:1–2, a symbol of […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
11.4 Safety and Peace of Zion Peace and Security amid the Storms: God’s Assurance for Zion Read Psalm 46:2–8. How is the world depicted poetically here? The poetic depiction of the world in Psalm 46:2–8 portrays a world in turmoil, marked by natural disasters and […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
11.3 Zion – the Home of All Nations Zion: A Place of Unity and Salvation for All Nations Read Psalm 87:1–2. What makes Zion such a highly esteemed place? Zion, as the place specially chosen and loved by God, is described in these verses as […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.2 Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem A Call for Peace: The Significance of Prayer for Jerusalem Read Psalm 122:1–5. What emotions do the worshippers feel upon their arrival in Jerusalem? What do they hope to find in Jerusalem? The worshippers arriving in Jerusalem experience […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 11. Longing for God in Zion Zion’s Longing for God: A Lesson in Spiritual Depth The longing for God and the pursuit of His presence are central themes in the Scriptures of the Bible. In Lesson 11, we will delve into the concept of […]
11.Longing for God in Zion Living Faith PSALMS 1
10.6 Summary The Lessons of the Past: An Invitation to Faithfulness and Worship Lesson 10 emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s works and the lessons we can draw from history. In Psalms 105, 106, 80, and 135, various historical events and the responses of the […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
10.5 The Preeminence of God in History The Unshakable Sovereignty of God: A Reflection on Psalm 135 Read Psalm 135. What historical events are highlighted in this psalm? What lessons does the psalmist draw from them? Psalm 135 is a call to praise the Lord […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
10.4 The Parable of God’s Vineyard Returning to the Origin: A Spiritual Journey through Psalm 80 Read Psalm 80. How is God’s people portrayed in this psalm, and what great promise does it claim? The parable of God’s vineyard in Psalm 80 presents a striking […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
10.3 Remembering History and Repentance Reflecting on the Past, Shaping the Future: Lessons from Psalm 106 Read Psalm 106. What historical events and lessons are highlighted in this psalm? Psalm 106 is a poignant reflection on the history of Israel, showcasing the highs and lows […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
10.2 Remembering the Past and Praising God The Narrative of Faithfulness: God’s Hand in Israel’s History Read Psalm 105. What historical events and lessons are highlighted in this psalm? Psalm 105 is an impressive retrospective of Israel’s history, highlighting the key events that have shaped […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 10.Lessons of the Past Reflection and Insight: Lessons from the Past The Bible is full of narratives about God’s faithful leadership, His intervention in human affairs, and the life-changing events that have shaped the history of His people. Through studying these stories, we not […]
10.Lessons of the Past Living Faith PSALMS 1
9.6 Summary Lesson 9 introduces us to the profound theological significance of Christ’s role as King and Priest according to the order of Melchizedek. We explore various biblical texts, particularly Psalms and the Epistle to the Hebrews, to understand how these teachings apply to Christ. […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
9.5 Eternal Priest in the Order of Melchizedek Read Psalm 110:4–7. How is Christ’s priesthood unique, and what great hope can we find in Christ’s heavenly priesthood? Christ’s priesthood according to the order of Melchizedek is unique and crucial for our understanding of redemption and […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
9.4 Eternal King of Unrivaled Power Read Psalm 2; 110:1–3; 89:5.14–18 and 110:5–6. What do these verses convey about Jesus as King? The examined verses from Psalms 2, 110, 89, and 110 present a powerful image of Jesus Christ as a King with unrivaled power […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
9.3 Forever Faithful to His Covenant Read Psalm 89:28–33, 39–47 and 132:10–12. What is the Davidic covenant about? What appears to have jeopardized it? The Davidic covenant, as described in Psalms 89:28–33, 39–47 and 132:10–12, is a central aspect of the biblical testimony and the […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
9.2 The Suffering Messiah Read Psalm 22 and 118:22. How was the Messiah treated by those He came to save? Psalms 22 and 118:22 offer profound perspectives on the suffering and redemption through the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These psalms prophetically reveal the sufferings endured by […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord In Lesson 9, we delve into the fascinating role that Jesus Christ plays as King and Priest according to the order of Melchizedek. This lesson provides a deep insight into the unique and […]
9.Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 8 “Wisdom for Righteous Living” addresses various aspects of wisdom and righteous living according to biblical teachings, particularly through the analysis of Psalms and other scriptures. The central focus is on how obeying God’s commandments and trusting in His word can lead to a […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
8.5 Blessings of Righteous Living Read Psalm 1:1–3; 112:1–9, and 128. What blessings are promised to those who honor the Lord? Psalms 1, 112, and 128 provide profound insights into the blessings promised to those who honor the Lord. They reveal the rich reward for […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
8.4 Deceitfulness of the Wicked Way Read Psalm 141. What does the psalmist pray for? Psalm 141 is a heartfelt prayer for protection against internal and external temptations. The psalmist finds himself not only exposed to the schemes of the wicked (Psalm 141:9–10), but also […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
8.3 The Lord’s Test Read Psalm 81:8–9; 95:7–11, and 105:17–22. What does divine testing entail in these verses? In the given Bible verses, we find various examples of divine testing that illuminate a central aspect of faith and the relationship between God and His people. […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
8.2 Teach Us to Number Our Days Read Psalm 90; 102:12 and 103:14–16. What is the human dilemma? Psalm 90, along with verses from Psalms 102 and 103, offers a profound insight into the human dilemma, which lies in its transience and limitations. These passages […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
8.1 Your Word I Have Hidden in My Heart Read Psalm 119:1–16, 161–168. How are we to keep God’s commandments and what blessings arise from it? Psalm 119 is a remarkable chapter in the Bible that highlights the significance and blessings of obeying God’s commandments. […]
8.Wisdom for Righteous Living Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 7 illuminates the theme of God’s goodness as depicted in various Psalms of the Bible. The Psalms serve as a rich source to recognize and understand God’s goodness in different facets. In Psalm 103, God’s goodness is portrayed as comprehensive and immeasurable. He blesses […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
7.5 Forget Not All His Benefits Read Psalm 103. How is God’s goodness portrayed here? In Psalm 103, God’s goodness is depicted in various ways. Firstly, blessings bestowed upon His people are enumerated, such as healing, redemption, mercy, and grace (Psalm 103:2-5). These blessings are […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
7.4 Praise to the Majestic and Merciful God Read Psalm 113 and 123. What two different aspects of God’s nature are depicted in these Psalms? Psalm 113 and 123 depict two different aspects of God’s nature: His exaltation and His grace. Exaltation of God: Psalm […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
7.3 If you, Lord, kept a record of sins Read Psalm 130. How are the severity of sin and hope for sinners portrayed? Psalm 130 portrays the profound reflection of the psalmist on the severity of sin and simultaneously the hope for sinners through God’s […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
7.2 Create in Me a Clean Heart Read Psalm 51:3–7. Why does the Psalmist appeal to God’s mercy? In Psalm 51:3–7, we encounter King David in one of the most poignant prayers of repentance in the entire Bible. David, pouring out his heart before the […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens In the seventh lesson of our study, we explore the central theme of God’s goodness as portrayed in the Psalms of the Old Testament. The Psalms are a rich source of worship, reflection, and instruction about God’s nature […]
7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens Living Faith PSALMS 1
6.6 Summary Lesson 6 delves into various biblical texts, particularly Psalms 18, 76, and 144. These Psalms depict God as a mighty warrior and judge ready to save His people from threats. The Psalms emphasize the severity and urgency of God’s response to the cries […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
6.5 The Lord’s Judgment and the Sanctuary Read Psalm 96:6–10; 99:1–4; and 132:7–9,13–18. Where does God’s judgment take place, and what does the answer to this question mean for us? How does the sanctuary help us understand how God will deal with evil? Psalms 96:6–10; […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
6.4 Pour Out Your Indignation Read Psalm 58:7–9; 69:23–29; 83:10–17; 94:1–2; and 137:7–9. What mood do these Psalms convey? Who is being judged in these Psalms? The selected Psalms, namely Psalm 58:7–9; 69:23–29; 83:10–17; 94:1–2; and 137:7–9, depict an atmosphere of deep lament, pain, and […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
6.3 How Long Will You Judge Unjustly? Read Psalm 82. What happens when leaders distort justice and oppress the people they are supposed to protect? Psalm 82 conveys a powerful message about the responsibility of leaders to uphold justice and the consequences when they neglect […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
6.2 Justice for the Oppressed Read Psalm 9:19; 12:6; 40:18; 113:7; 146:6–10; and 41:2–4. What message is contained in these verses that is relevant for us today? The Psalms, particularly Psalm 9:19, 12:6, 40:18, 113:7, 146:6–10, and 41:2–4, convey a clear message of justice for […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 6.I Will Arise Lesson 6 takes us into the profound insights of the Psalms, particularly Psalms 18, 76, and 144. These Psalms present God as a mighty warrior and a just judge, ready to protect His people from dangers. The lesson emphasizes trusting in […]
6.I Will Arise Living Faith PSALMS 1
5.6 Summary In the fifth lesson, “Singing the Lord’s Song in a Foreign Land,” the focus is on Psalms that describe the experience of God’s children in the midst of suffering, injustice, and the challenge of evil. Various Psalms illuminate the emotional journey of the […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
5.5 Lest the Righteous Be Tempted Read Psalm 37:1, 8; 49:6–8; 94:3–7; and 125:3. What problems does the psalmist struggle with? The Psalms, particularly Psalm 37, 49, 94, and 125, address the challenges and questions that arise for the righteous when the wicked seem to […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
5.4 Has His Promise Failed Forevermore? Read Psalm 77. What experience does the author go through? In Psalm 77, the author undergoes a profound spiritual crisis marked by doubts and pains. Here are some key aspects of this experience: Lament and Pain: The psalmist begins […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
5.3 Where is God? Read Psalm 42:2–4; 63:2; 69:2–4, and 102:2–8. What causes great distress to the psalmist? The quoted verses from Psalm 42:2–4, 63:2, 69:2–4, and 102:2–8 convey the psalmist’s deep sense of suffering intensified by the apparent absence of God. Here are key […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
5.2 At Death’s Door Read Psalm 41:2–5; 88:4–13; and 102:3–5, 11, 23–24. What experiences do these verses describe, and to what extent can you relate to what is being said? The cited verses from Psalm 41:2–5, 88:4–13, and 102:3–5, 11, 23–24 provide insight into the […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 5. Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Lesson 5 takes us into the deep emotions of the Psalms, sung by the children of God in the midst of suffering, injustice, and doubt. In this lesson, we explore how the psalmists coped with […]
5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land Living Faith PSALMS 1
4.6 Summary: Lesson 4, “The Lord Listens and Rescues,” delved deeply into the world of Psalms, which serve as powerful forms of worship and prayer. The lesson explored the diverse emotions and experiences expressed in the Psalms, ranging from deep despair to jubilant praise. Various […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
4.5 Help From the Sanctuary Read Psalm 3:5; 14:7; 20:2–4; 27:5; 36:9; 61:5; and 68:6.36. Where does help come from in these verses? The verses emphasize the help and refuge that come from the sanctuary. Here are some thoughts on each verse: Psalm 3:5: The […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
4.4 Defender and Deliverer Read 1 Corinthians 10:1–4. How does Paul describe the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt? What spiritual lesson is he trying to convey? In 1 Corinthians 10:1–4, Paul writes about the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and uses it as a spiritual lesson for […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
4.3 The Lord Is a Refuge in Adversity Read Psalm 17:7–9; 31:2–4; and 91:2–7. What does the psalmist do in difficult times? The Psalms 17:7–9; 31:2–4; and 91:2–7 illustrate the psalmist’s response to difficult times and his conscious decision to seek refuge in God. Here […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
4.2 Assurance of God’s Care Read Psalm 40:2–4; 50:15; 55:23; and 121. How is God involved in our daily affairs? These Psalms provide profound insights into God’s care for His people and His involvement in their daily affairs. Psalm 40:2–4: The psalmist describes how the […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 4: The Lord Hears and Delivers In the fourth lesson, we explore the Psalms as powerful expressions of worship, prayer, and relationship with God. The Psalms offer a rich range of emotions and experiences, from deep despair to exuberant praise. We will examine the […]
4.The Lord Hears and Delivers Living Faith PSALMS 1
3.6 Summary In Lesson 3, the significance of God’s creation, sovereignty, and rule was explored in various Psalms. The Psalms emphasize God’s supremacy as the Creator of the universe, His sovereignty over all natural forces, and His rule over the entire creation. Creation is portrayed […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
3.5 Your Testimonies Are Very Sure Read Psalm 19:8; 93:5; 119:165; 1:2,6; 18:31; and 25:10. What thought connects them all? The mentioned Psalms – Psalm 19:8, Psalm 93:5, Psalm 119:165, Psalm 1:2,6, Psalm 18:31, and Psalm 25:10 – are connected by a common theme: the […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
3.4 Ever Mindful of His Covenant The theme of God’s judgment raises an important question: How can the people of God have peace with God and assurance of redemption during times of judgment? Read Psalm 94:14, Psalm 105:7–10, and Daniel 7:22. Psalm 94:14, Psalm 105:7–10, […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
3.3 God is Judge Read Psalm 75. Why is the boasting of the wicked in vain? Psalm 75 reveals God’s sovereign rule as the Lawgiver and Judge. The boasting of the wicked is portrayed as futile, leading to an inevitable judgment executed by God Himself. […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
3.2 The Lord Reigns The Psalms emphatically highlight the inseparable connection between the Lord as the Creator and the Lord as the Sovereign, the Ruler. These two aspects of His nature complement each other harmoniously, giving His glory and majesty a deeper dimension. The solemn […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 3: The Lord Reigns Lesson 3 takes us through the Psalms, exploring central theological themes. We delve into the concepts of creation, sovereignty, and love of God, discover the significance of His laws and testimonies, and understand the role of His rule and the […]
3.The Lord Reigns Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.6 Summary Lesson 2 focuses on reading and understanding the Psalms, particularly the lament Psalms. Here are the key points summarized: Reading Psalms in Daily Life: It is recommended to regularly set aside time for reading the Psalms, either following a predetermined order or choosing […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.5 Restore Us Again Read Psalm 60:3–7. In your opinion, for what occasions would this psalm be a suitable prayer? How can we benefit from this lament psalm even in joyful times of our lives? For what occasions could this psalm be a suitable prayer? […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.4 From Despair to Hope Read Psalm 13. What two basic moods can you discover in this psalm? In your opinion, what decision has caused the radical change in the psalmist’s overall attitude? Psalm 13 demonstrates two fundamental moods or sections: Lament and Despair (Psalm […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.3 A Psalm of Despair Read Psalm 22. What can we learn from this psalm about trusting God in the midst of great suffering? Psalm 22 is indeed a powerful example of how the psalms can help us cope with great suffering and life’s challenges. […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
2.2 Trust in Times of Trouble Read Psalm 44. What does it tell us, and why is it relevant for believers of all times? Psalm 44 is a sincere expression of suffering, lament, and a deep search for God’s intervention. It begins by recalling God’s […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 2: Teach Us to Pray Lesson 2 delves into a deeper understanding and application of the Psalms in our daily spiritual lives. It encourages utilizing the diversity of the Psalms to find comfort, guidance, and inspiration in various life phases. By reading, reflecting, and […]
2.Teach us to Pray Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.6 Summary The first lesson emphasizes the fundamental aspects of reading and understanding the Psalms: Diversity of the Psalms: The Psalms encompass a wide range of genres, including hymns, thanksgiving songs, lamentations, wisdom psalms, and more. This diversity requires attentive and nuanced reading to grasp […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.5 The World of the Psalms Read Psalm 16:8; 44:9; 46:2; 47:2,8; 57:3; 62:9; 82:8, and 121:7. What significance does God hold in the lives of the Psalmists? Let’s examine the selected Psalms together to gain insight into the significance of God in the lives […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.4 Inspired Prayers Read 2 Samuel 23:1–2 and Romans 8:26–27. What do these verses teach us about prayer? These two verses provide important lessons about prayer: Prayer as Divine Inspiration: In 2 Samuel 23:1–2, we see that David’s words are portrayed as divine inspiration. The […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.3 A Song for Every Season Read Psalm 3; 33:1–3; and 109:6–15. What different facets of human experience are contained in these Psalms? Here are the specified Psalms with a brief summary of the various facets of human experience found in them: Psalm 3: Lament […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
1.2 Meet the Psalmists Read Psalm 25:2–6; 42:2; 75:2; 77:2; 84:2–3; 88:2–4; and 89:2. What do these Psalms reveal about the experiences of their authors? Here are the specified verses from the mentioned Psalms along with a brief summary of their messages: Psalm 25:2–6: The […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
Lesson 1. How to Read the Psalms Immerse in the Psalms: A Journey of Discovery through Praise and Worship The first lesson introduces us to the fascinating world of the Psalms, a book of the Bible that encompasses a wide range of human emotions, prayers, […]
1.How to Read the Psalms Living Faith PSALMS 1
13.6 Summary The final lesson emphasizes the conclusion of God’s mission and the fulfillment of the divine plan of redemption. Students are encouraged to study the visionary depictions of the new heaven and the new earth in Revelation. These descriptions portray a world where God’s […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
13.5 Mission Complete Read Revelation 21:1–4 and 21:22–22:5. What scene is described here? Revelation 21:1–4 and 21:22–22:5 describe the scene of the new heaven and the new earth as envisioned by the Apostle John in his Revelation. Here is a summary of the events and […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
13.4 Success in the Mission Success in the mission can be defined in various ways, and it is important to have a balanced perspective that considers both quantitative and qualitative aspects. Here are some considerations on what success in missionary work might entail: Faithfulness to […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
13.3 The Final Crisis Read 1 John 4:8, 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Timothy 2:4, and Genesis 12:3. Why is each group of people significant to God? 1 John 4:8: “Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” This passage emphasizes […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
13.2 The Three Angels’ Messages and Mission Read Revelation 14:6–12. What is portrayed in these verses, and what do these verses have to do with our mission and message? The verses in Revelation 14:6–12 are part of a passage known as the “Three Angels’ Messages.” […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 13. The End of God’s Mission Lesson 13, “The End of God’s Mission,” concludes our study series and directs our focus to the fulfilled hope of the divine mission. This lesson explores the biblical vision of the new heavens and the new earth described […]
13.The End of God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
12.6 Summary Lesson 12 discusses the Book of Esther in the Old Testament. Esther, a Jewish orphan, is elevated to the position of Queen of Persia and plays a crucial role in saving her people from imminent destruction by the malicious Haman. Her faith, determination, […]
12.Esther and Mordecai GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
12.5 The Miracle of Purim The Book of Esther is indeed a unique biblical work as the name of God is not explicitly mentioned in it. This has led to various theological discussions and interpretations. Some believe that the absence of God’s name may indicate […]
12.Esther and Mordecai GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
12.4 For Such a Time as This Read Esther 4:1–14. Why was it considered appropriate for Esther to reveal herself as a Jew at this time? In these verses, we learn that Mordecai is in great distress upon hearing of Haman’s plan to exterminate the […]
12.Esther and Mordecai GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
12.3 Mordecai’s Faithful Witness Read Esther 3:1–15. What happened here and why? The story of Mordecai in Esther 3 illustrates the strength of his faith in God and how he refused to bow down to a man like Haman, especially since Haman was a descendant […]
12.Esther and Mordecai GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 12: Esther and Mordecai The Book of Esther is a fascinating biblical work that narrates the story of a courageous woman living in ancient Persia. Esther, a Jewish orphan, is elevated to the position of queen and plays a crucial role in saving her […]
12.Esther and Mordecai GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 11, “Mission to the Unreached – Part 2,” provides a profound exploration of missionary work in the context of unreached areas, particularly in urban environments. The Bible texts, especially Jesus’ encounters with people in cities like Tyre and Sidon, offer valuable lessons for modern […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Jesus’ question in Luke 18:8, whether He will find faith on earth at His return, is profound and encourages us to reflect on the kind of faith Jesus seeks. The faith Jesus seeks is not merely superficial; it is a living, active faith that shines […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The section “Send them away!” urges us to recognize and overcome the mistakes of the past that prevented the people of God at the time of Christ from bringing the hope of the Messiah to unreached areas like Tyre and Sidon. Nationalism, pride, and prejudice […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The portrayal of the woman in the accounts of Matthew 15:22–28 and Mark 7:24–30 vividly illustrates how the evangelists shaped their narratives with respect to their respective audiences. The differences in describing the woman as a “Canaanite” in Matthew or as a “Greek from Syrophoenicia” […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The mission among the crowds, as described in Matthew 9:35–38, reveals Jesus’ compassionate attitude toward the “faceless masses” in the cities. Jesus had deep compassion for the crowds, even leading him to weep over Jerusalem in Luke 19:41. This highlights Jesus’ extraordinary love for all […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 11: Mission to the Unreached – Part 2 This lesson delves into the challenging yet crucial task of missionary work in urban and unreached areas. Through biblical examples, especially Jesus’ interactions with people in pagan cities, lessons on overcoming prejudices, the significance of cross-cultural […]
11.Mission to the Unreached-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 10, “Mission to the Unreached – Part 1,” provides a fascinating and instructive exploration of Paul’s missionary strategies in Athens, as documented in Acts 17. The central message of this lesson lies in Paul’s skillful approach to the culture, beliefs, and faith of the […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The account in Acts 17:24–34 vividly illustrates how Paul skillfully engages with the culture and beliefs of the Athenians to create a bridge for the Gospel. Here are some key aspects of his testimony: Use of Their Authors: Paul quotes some of the Athenians’ own […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text about Paul introducing a new God in Athens in Acts 17:24–27 shows how skillfully the apostle sought a new approach to people who were already in some way concerned with spirituality. Here are some aspects of Paul’s approach: Acknowledgment and Praise: Paul began […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text about Paul and the unknown God in Acts 17:22–23 emphasizes Paul’s wise approach to reach the people in Athens with the Gospel. It shows how he did not condemn the false religion of the Athenians immediately but instead highlighted the positive aspects of […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text about Paul on the Areopagus from the Acts of the Apostles 17:18–21 emphasizes the apostle’s ability to adapt to different contexts and intelligently preach the Gospel. The commentary highlights that wherever Paul was, he consistently proclaimed the Gospel in accordance with his divine […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text on “A Hebrew in Athens” from Acts 17:1–17 reflects the Apostle Paul’s reaction to the numerous idols in Athens. It emphasizes how Paul, based on his knowledge of his people’s history, was deeply troubled by the idolatry he found in the city. The […]
10.Mission to the Unreached-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The preceding texts illuminate various facets of dealing with people in positions of power, be it in religious, political, or social contexts. The central message lies in the recognition that God is capable of using people in influential positions and that it is our duty […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Jesus’s relationship with the powerful was complex and instructive. The account of Joseph of Arimathea in Matthew 27:57–60 gives us insight into how the Lord used a rich man who was evidently influenced by Jesus. Joseph of Arimathea appears unexpectedly in the narrative, almost out […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The encounter of Jesus with the rich young man in Matthew 19:16–22 offers significant insights into how wealth can pose a challenge to accepting salvation. In contrast to Nicodemus, the rich young man could not accept Jesus’ call, and this episode teaches us important lessons. […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The story of Nicodemus in John 3 provides a fascinating insight into the spiritual needs of a highly educated man and how Jesus immediately addressed those needs. Nicodemus was not only a respected leader among the Jews but also a teacher of Israel. His outward […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text emphasizes the universal love of God and the fact that the sacrifice of Christ is for all people, regardless of their background, wealth, ethnic affiliation, or social status. This message is central to the Christian understanding of salvation and underscores God’s desire to […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The Seventh-day Adventist belief in the “unlimited atonement” is a central aspect of their faith that sets them apart from some other Christian denominations. The core idea that Christ’s death applies to all of humanity and is not limited to a predetermined group is based […]
9.Mission to the Powerful GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The commentary on Lesson 8, “Mission to the Needy,” provides a profound reflection on various aspects of Christian service and the responsibility to care for the needs of others. Here are some key points: 8.1 The Faith of Friends: Emphasizes the inspirational power of the […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The thoughts on “Greater Love” emphasize the ongoing need in the world and the responsibility of each individual to assist others in their distress. The reference to John 15:13, where Jesus says there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for friends, […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The reflections on assisting the injured impressively contemplate the universal reality of human suffering and emphasize the necessity of addressing the needs of others, regardless of their material status. The comparison between wealth and poverty as irrelevant factors in human suffering underscores the fact that […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text emphasizes the timeliness and relevance of the topic of immigrants and refugees, urging acceptance by recounting the story of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus fleeing to Egypt. It calls for overcoming cultural and language differences to extend a helping hand to the needy, in […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Ellen White presents a clear five-step process that can serve as a guide to effectively and compassionately serve. The first step, mingling among the helpless and spending time with them, emphasizes the importance of personal engagement and empathetic closeness. The mention of Jesus being among […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The account of friends bringing their helpless companion to Jesus is truly inspiring. It shows us that true friendship involves not only words but also actions. Despite facing obstacles, these men took responsibility for caring for their friend. This story reminds us that sometimes it […]
8.Mission to the Needy GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
1.The Question of Questions The fundamental questions regarding our origin, the meaning of life, and our destiny after death are existential. The episode in the Gospel of Luke where a legal expert asked Jesus about eternal life emphasizes the urgency of these questions. Jesus used […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The parable of the Good Samaritan, told by Jesus, serves as a timeless lesson about neighborly love and compassion. It highlights the importance of unconditionally helping others, regardless of ethnic backgrounds, social status, or religious beliefs. The essence of the story lies in recognizing those […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor God's Mission, My Mission Living Faith
The message Jesus conveyed in Matthew 22:37–40 is fundamental to understanding the Christian faith. Love for God and for one’s neighbor are the central commandments upon which the entire law and prophets rest, as Jesus explained. This teaching is reflected in his response to the […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The episode of the legal expert and Jesus’s reaction emphasizes the importance of acting according to faith. The legal expert acknowledged the right answer to his own question by citing the basic commandments of loving God and one’s neighbor. Yet, Jesus encouraged not just knowing […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The way Jesus responded to questions and challenges offers valuable insights into dealing with different views and challenging questions, especially concerning our faith. The Bible verses mentioned, such as Matthew 26:56, Acts 17:11, 1 Corinthians 15:3, and 2 Timothy 3:16, emphasize the importance of Scripture […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The questions regarding our origin, the meaning of life, and our destiny after death are indeed fundamental questions that concern the essence of humanity. The episode in the Gospel of Luke, where a legal expert asked Jesus how to attain eternal life, shows the urgency […]
7.Mission to My Neighbor GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The lesson focuses on the motivation, preparation, and action steps for the mission in the Christian faith. 1 To Share the Good News: The story of the women at the empty tomb highlights the power of the resurrection and the importance of having personal experiences […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Acts 2:41-47 indeed provides an inspiring picture of the early church and its fundamental characteristics. It depicts a community of believers unified and filled by the power of the Holy Spirit. Here are some key aspects expressed in this portrayal of the early church: Community […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The fact that even those who were complicit in Jesus’ death were offered forgiveness and redemption is of great significance and should encourage and motivate us in various ways: Encouragement for Personal Salvation: This fact underscores the immeasurable grace of God and His willingness to […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The lessons from the waiting period of the disciples in Acts 1 are valuable in strengthening our own faith and readiness for mission. Here are some steps on how we can wait on God and simultaneously make meaningful use of our time: Community and Prayer: […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The passage in Luke 24:36-49 is indeed crucial in deepening the apostles’ understanding of what happened with Jesus and His message. Here, they not only gain certainty about the resurrection of Jesus but also understand the connection between the prophetic foundations and His work, which […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The story of the women at the empty tomb is indeed an inspiring reminder of the power of the resurrection and the necessity of sharing the good news of Jesus. Their experience shows how unexpected and overwhelming encounters with the divine can change our lives. […]
6.Motivation and Preparation for Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
In this lesson, the story of Jonah and his attempt to escape God’s mission are examined. Jonah feared Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, and tried to evade God’s instructions. The commentary highlights various pretexts that people sometimes use to avoid missionary work: Our […]
5.Excuses to Avoid Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The important message from Jonah’s story and the call that God sends to His servants – here are some thoughts on the key points: The role as God’s mouthpiece: Jonah’s story reminds us that our role in God’s mission work is to be a mouthpiece […]
5.Excuses to Avoid Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The deep inner conflicts and prejudices expressed in Jonah’s reaction to God’s grace for Nineveh – here are some thoughts on the key points: Jonah’s hatred and prejudices: This section of the Bible clearly shows how deeply Jonah’s hatred and prejudices against the inhabitants of […]
5.Excuses to Avoid Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The significance of Jonah’s experience in the belly of the fish and his mission in Nineveh in overcoming inconveniences and prejudices in the service of proclamation: here are some thoughts on the key points: Change despite inconveniences: Jonah’s example shows that even after a dramatic […]
5.Excuses to Avoid Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The passage from Nahum and the story of Nineveh, along with the conflict between Assyria and Israel, offer valuable insights into the possible reasons for Jonah’s decision not to go to Nineveh but to flee to Tarshish. Nineveh was undoubtedly a powerful and magnificent city, […]
5.Excuses to Avoid Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 4 emphasizes important spiritual principles and virtues that help us to further God’s mission in the world. The text “The Gift of Hospitality” shows how Abraham practiced hospitality as a noble virtue through initiative, politeness, care, hospitality, generosity, and awareness of his mission. This […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
To submit to God’s will, as described in the verses from Genesis 12:1-9, is an attitude of humility, faith, and obedience to God, even when the path before us appears unclear and challenging. Abraham, a central example of this devotion, shows us how this submission […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The report on Abraham’s mission in Genesis 19:1-29 clearly demonstrates how Abraham’s spirit of hospitality, love, and prayer had positive effects. In this passage, we learn that Lot, Abraham’s nephew, lived in Sodom and held an important position there, likely in public service. Abraham and […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The verses Genesis 18:23-32 and James 5:16 teach us a lot about the power of intercessory prayer: We have the privilege of being intercessors before God: Abraham serves as an example of our potential to intercede before God on behalf of other people. This role […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
In this Bible passage, Abraham demonstrates an impressive quality: his love for all people, regardless of their tribe, race, or nation. This is an important lesson in charity and compassion that is inspiring to us all. In the story where God reveals to Abraham that […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Abraham demonstrates impressive hospitality in this Bible passage, illustrating many important elements of this virtue. Here are some aspects of his hospitality: Initiative: Abraham took the initiative to welcome the guests even before they arrived at his tent. This shows his willingness to embrace strangers […]
4.Sharing God’s Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Lesson 3, with its various texts, emphasizes important principles and messages regarding God’s call to mission and how we as believers can respond to it. In the text “Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zone,” the story of Babel is presented as a lesson on human […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Jesus’ instruction in Acts 1:8, where He says that we are to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth, provides an essential guideline for our mission and testimony in the world. First, this principle reminds us that our […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The story of the early church and its gradual departure from its comfort zone is a remarkable example of how the Holy Spirit guided the early Christians and propelled the mission of the Gospel. They began in Jerusalem and were initially limited to the Jewish […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The account of Abram (later Abraham) in Egypt contains important lessons for our understanding of faith and our relationship with God in difficult situations. Here are some key thoughts we can draw from this story: Faith and Trust in God: Abram faced a severe test […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The story of Abraham, who was called by God to leave his land and people and move to another land, is an inspiring example of faith and obedience. God’s instruction to Abraham was undoubtedly a call to mission. Abraham was called to detach himself from […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The story of Babel and the attempt to build a tower to the heavens to make a name for themselves is indeed an impressive lesson about the ambition and selfishness that can exist within humanity. It shows how the desire to stay in one’s comfort […]
3.God's Call to Mission GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
In this lesson, we have learned that the mission originates from the triune God, which gives us confidence in the perfection and wisdom of His divine plan. The close collaboration and fellowship within the Trinity should encourage us to strive for unity in our own […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Revelation 7:9-10 provides us with a striking insight into the comprehensive geographical dimension of God’s mission. These verses describe a vast assembly of people coming from “every nation, tribe, people, and language” standing before the throne of God, worshiping Him. This illustrates that God’s mission […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Mission is undoubtedly of critical importance to the Church as it embodies the command of Christ and the fulfillment of the Gospel. Every believer can contribute to sustaining the life and effectiveness of the Church by actively participating in mission. Here are some steps you […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The connection between the concept of judgment and the “eternal gospel” in the first angel’s message is of crucial importance and holds profound theological significance. Here are some key aspects of this connection: God’s Righteousness: Judgment is an expression of God’s righteousness. In judgment, God’s […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The Great Commission, to make disciples of people, is of central importance for Christian life and service. It impacts various areas: Lifestyle and Witness: The command to make disciples should influence our lifestyle and our testimony. We should align our daily lives to set an […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The emphasis on the triune God as the origin of the mission is of central importance for our understanding of the Christian faith and our own role in the mission. This thought should console us in various ways: God’s perfect planning: The fact that God’s […]
2.God’s Mission to Us-Part 2 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The lesson begins with the consideration of God’s mission to turn towards His fallen creation and redeem it. It highlights how humanity fell from its original perfection due to the disobedience of Adam and Eve. The question “Where are you?” in Genesis 3:9–15 symbolizes God’s […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
“The God who returns to us” illustrates the connection between Jesus’ promise in John 14:1–3 and the end-time message of the Bible. In these verses, Jesus tells His disciples that He will come back to take them to Himself so that they can be with […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
“The God who continues to be with us” highlights how the life and ministry of Jesus represent the ultimate revelation of God. In Jesus, God’s missionary nature was fully revealed. He was the “image of the invisible God,” and in Him, “God’s fullness dwelt.” Jesus […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
“The God who became one with us” conveys a profound message about God’s mission, His love, and His presence among humanity. The Old Testament reveals God’s intention to fulfill His mission in the world through a chosen people, emphasizing that everything God did was part […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
“The God who desires to be with us” emphasizes the missionary nature of God, His desire to connect with people and be with them. The promises to Abraham and his descendants in the cited Bible verses (Genesis 17:7, 26:3, 28:15) show that the primary focus […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
The text “The God who comes to us” impressively reflects on the theological significance of the story of Adam and Eve as well as the divine mission of redemption. It becomes clear how humanity, created in the image of God, fell from its original perfection […]
1.God’s Mission to Us-Part 1 GOD'S MISSION - MY MISSION Living Faith
Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley | Lesson 10.The Last Days | Prophecies About the End Times – An Overview | Lesson 10 deals with Jesus’ prophetic statements about the last days and the upcoming events that will shape world history. Jesus addresses […]
Sabbath School The Book of Mark
In this episode, join Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, for part two of his discussion on Chapter 36 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White. Explore the urgent warnings this chapter makes about the growing deceptions and the peril of neglecting […]
The Great Controversy EGW 9.7 Questions 1.Reflect on the significance of Jesus cleansing the temple. How could this principle be applied to our church today? How should such a cleansing take place? The cleansing of the temple by Jesus is a powerful symbol of restoring holiness and purity in […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
August 31, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 4 1 And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole […]
Believe His Prophets Mark
Adventist News Network – August 30, 2024: AdventHealth turns faith into action & more global news | This week on ANN: | · Sagunto Adventist University in Spain celebrates 50 years of transformative education and spiritual legacy. · Free Clinic at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth turns […]
Adventist News Network 9.6 Summary The Triumphal Entry: Jesus’ Public Revelation as Messiah Lesson 9 addresses the intense confrontations Jesus faced with religious leaders during His final days in Jerusalem. It reveals how the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes tried to trap Jesus with tricky questions, hoping to accuse […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
August 30, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 3 1 And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand. 2 And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might […]
Believe His Prophets Mark 9.5 The Greatest Commandment The Greatest Commandment: Love for God and Neighbor as the Core of Faith Read Mark 12:28–34. What profound question did the scribe, who was favorably disposed toward Jesus, ask, and what was Jesus’ twofold answer? In Mark 12:28–34, a scribe, who […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
August 29, 2024 DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 2 1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. 2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, […]
Believe His Prophets Mark 9.4 Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes Taxes and Resurrection: Jesus’ Wisdom in the Face of Worldly and Spiritual Challenges Read Mark 12:13–27. What happens here, and what does Jesus teach? In Mark 12:13–27, Jesus encounters religious leaders again, who attempt to trap Him with difficult […]
9.Jerusalem Controversies Living Faith THE BOOK OF MARK
