Call to Action: The mission field here and now

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20closeMatthew 28:19-20 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (ESV) closeMatthew 28:19-20closeMatthew 28:19-20 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (ESV) 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (ESV) ). This commandment is clear; we are to proclaim Christ to all nations as the only way to eternal life.

Provided by NASA from it’s MODIS satellite, a storm system that generated a EF4 tornado is captured on May 20, 2013 over Moore, Okla. (NASA via Getty Images)

As I ponder immensely on the work of outward mission and how to find this mission field, I could not help myself from reflecting on one of my favorite Bible passages; James 2:14-26closeJames 2:14-26 Faith Without Works Is Dead 14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (ESV) closeJames 2:14-26closeJames 2:14-26 Faith Without Works Is Dead 14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (ESV) Faith Without Works Is Dead 14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (ESV) , “Faith without works is dead”. James asked some important and life-saving fundamental questions of which two of those questions stand out for me: “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?” and “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”. Brothers and sisters in Christ, I strongly believe that Christians should reflect on James’ fundamental questions in their daily living in search of the mission field. The mission field is not in one particular location of the world but amongst us –right here and now.

Whenever I hear the word “mission” in relation to church matter I would often think about “outward mission field” or trying to reach those who not yet know Christ. By the power of the Holy Spirit, and through our baptism, we are call to have a personal life-changing relationship with Christ. Can a person who does not have a life-changing relationship with Christ is able to call others to Christ?  St. Paul in all his murderous endeavors and persecution against followers of Christ experienced a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ and then he went out to share the Gospel with others. Wherever you are there is a mission field! Where is your mission field? The mission field is among us right here, in America, in your State, in your City, in your town, in your community, and in your Church – yes in our Church.  I believe that James was referring to in 2:14-15, when he said, What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?” and “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”, that he meant it literally, exactly as he stated. According to James, faith and good works goes hand-in-hand – “faith without works is dead”, “…faith without works is useless (2:14), cannot save (2:14), is dead (2:17), and is ineffective (2:20). God commanded his people to supply the needs of the poor (Deut. 15:7-8closeDeuteronomy 15:7-8 7 “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, 8 but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be. (ESV) closeDeuteronomy 15:7-8closeDeuteronomy 15:7-8 7 “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, 8 but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be. (ESV) 7 “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, 8 but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be. (ESV) ).  James even pointed out that we are justified by works also along with faith “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone” (2:24). In keeping with Christ’s mission, we are to be a helping brotherhood of believers.

This aerial photo shows the remains of homes hit by a massive tornado in Moore, Okla., Monday May 20, 2013. (AP Photo/Steve Gooch)

Here are a few examples of the mission field: victims/families of disasters; Oklahoma deadly tornado, Hurricane Sandy, Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, Boston terrorist attack, victims/families of Texas Explosion, impoverished/underprivileged individuals; widows, single parents, undocumented immigrants, Christians facing prosecutions, Christians who succumbed temptations,  Hindus/Muslims in our community. Today more than ever in human history we are call to action; we are call to care for Christ’s flock and all peoples of the world who are in need. When we turn and look the other way we are shying-away from our Christian calling.

Brother and sisters in Christ remember our Lord’s Prayer, “…forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…” where is your mission field? My mission field is right here and now.

Almighty God, maker of Heaven and Earth continue to nurture our Christian faith that we may do good works according to your will. Remove the fog over our eyes so that we may see those who are suffering and help them through their times of trials, guide them to an active Christian faith. By the power of the Holy Spirit, enlighten us with the true meaning and understanding of your word through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savor. Amen 

http://www.weather.com/news/tornado-central/oklahoma-plains-tornadoes-slideshow-20130520

John 17:20-26closeJohn 17:20-26 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.” (ESV) closeJohn 17:20-26closeJohn 17:20-26 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.” (ESV) 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.” (ESV)
20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
24 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
25 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26 I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

John 17:20closeJohn 17:20 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, (ESV) closeJohn 17:20closeJohn 17:20 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, (ESV) 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, (ESV) “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,”

Do you hear Jesus? He prays for you.  His personal attention and care for your well being is such that He takes the time to Pray for you.

Why does He bother with Prayer; when He could but say the Word and command that your every need be taken care of and immediately?

First of all, because His concern for you is so great that He wants to come to His Father personally for you; and this is what Jesus still does for you today (Romans 8:34closeRomans 8:34 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (ESV) closeRomans 8:34closeRomans 8:34 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (ESV) 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (ESV) ).

Secondly, because His Kingdom is not of this world; yes we Pray for His Kingdom to come and to be made known ; but this creation which has been corrupted by sin will soon pass away (Revelation 21:1closeRevelation 21:1 The New Heaven and the New Earth 21:1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (ESV) closeRevelation 21:1closeRevelation 21:1 The New Heaven and the New Earth 21:1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (ESV) The New Heaven and the New Earth 21:1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (ESV) ), and so we need God’s ever present help in these times (Psalm 23closePsalm 23 The Lord Is My Shepherd A Psalm of David. 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever. (ESV) closePsalm 23closePsalm 23 The Lord Is My Shepherd A Psalm of David. 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever. (ESV) The Lord Is My Shepherd A Psalm of David. 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever. (ESV) ).

Third, because Jesus is humble; Jesus who is God, did not consider it beneath Himself, but took the form of a person in order that He would die for our sins- what humility. This same Jesus, humbles Himself before His Father and Prays asking the Father to bless us, when it is by His blood that we are even able to come to Heaven. Jesus’ Prayer life is one of humility, of concern for others before Himself.

What do you think Jesus is Praying about for you today? _____________________

Jesus prayed for Peter even though He knew that Peter would deny Him (Luke 22:31closeLuke 22:31 Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial 31 “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, (ESV) closeLuke 22:31closeLuke 22:31 Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial 31 “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, (ESV) Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial 31 “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, (ESV) ); what does this tell you about His love and commitment to you, today? _____________________

In what ways could you be more humble and Pray for others? _____________________

How important is Prayer for the planting of His church? _____________________

Jesus Prays for the salvation of the lost, reflect on this- _____________________

Jesus says the lost will come to faith, “… through their message…” and He prays for those who will be reached; the Prayer needs of new and future believers matter to Jesus. Reflect on this- _____________________

Who do you know that does come to worship regularly? ______________________

How can Prayer be a part of your ministry to these lost people you already know? _____________________

What is your Prayer for the Church? _____________________

What is your Prayer for your Pastor, who brings “the message”? _____________________

John 10:22-24closeJohn 10:22-24 I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” (ESV) closeJohn 10:22-24closeJohn 10:22-24 I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” (ESV) I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” (ESV)

     22 Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The Jews gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.”

     22 Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter,

-Judas Maccabeus drove out the Syrians from Jerusalem in 164 BC; after which the Jewish people rededicated the altar in the temple (this was the second temple built by the Jewish people, Solomon’s temple having been destroyed earlier).  The Feast of Dedication occurred in the middle of our month of December; it lasted 8 days; lights and candles were a prominent part of the celebration.  It is easy to see worldly prominence as a visible sign of God’s blessing on our efforts; this success in driving out the Syrians was seen by the Jewish people as God’s blessing on them.

As Christians today, if we are not careful we will evaluate God’s opinion of us based on our success/lack of success in the areas of politics and legal decisions.  Jesus would prophesy regarding this temple that it would all be torn down (and it was).  It must have been very hard for the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, to hear that this sacred building that meant so much to them was not going to exist anymore for the worship of God.

     What happens to the mission of Christ when it is confused and comingled with national military/political concerns? ____________________

-Winter is the end of one year, the New Year is about to come.  It is a time when life seems to retract.  But God orders the seasons and establishes their boundaries.  Jesus had come to bring the New Covenant that God had prophesied about through Jeremiah (Jeremiah 31:31closeJeremiah 31:31 The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) closeJeremiah 31:31closeJeremiah 31:31 The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) ); the old was ending, the new was coming.

     What new ministry in this next year are you Praying about? ____________________

23 and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon’s Colonnade.

-Solomon’s Colonnade was left over from the first temple; having been spared by the Chaldeans.  This structure was 400 cubits high (a cubit measurement was 20.6 inches when used to measure buildings; a cubit used in commerce was 16-18 inches); so this structure was about 8,240 inches tall (which equals approximately 686 feet tall)  There are individual stones in the supporting wall that are 20 cubits long.  This building was built to facilitate worship of the one true living God; but this building with all of it’s impressiveness is not what God was interested in- He wants a loving relationship with His children; He wants His Son to have a healthy relationship with His bride- the Church.

     What happens when we make a building, more important in our ministry focus than the relationship of people with God? ____________________

-Herod the Great’s temple was not finished until 64AD; it was destroyed by the Romans in 70AD.  This was the 3^rd and final temple (Solomon built the first; Cyrus paid for the second).  There was great effort put into buildings; but what really needed attention was their hearts.

     Why is it easier to focus our attention on physical aspects of our faith- like buildings; instead of our personal faith? ____________________

            -Whose idea was it to build a temple to begin with; was it God’s idea or man’s idea? _____

24 The Jews gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.”

            -If we are not proclaiming Christ as Messiah; are we answering the question about Him? ____

             -What new ministries could be started in your area to help spread the Good News? ____________________

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for…”  (Hebrews 11:1closeHebrews 11:1 By Faith 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (ESV) closeHebrews 11:1closeHebrews 11:1 By Faith 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (ESV) By Faith 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (ESV) )

According to Strong’s dictionary, “faith” in the New Testament comes from a Greek word which means to be convinced, to go along (ie a weak faith), or to rely (an inward faith). The Greek word for “faith” comes from the name of the Greek goddess of persuasion. So, there is some artistic irony in Acts 19:26closeActs 19:26 26 And you see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in almost all of Asia this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great many people, saying that gods made with hands are not gods. (ESV) closeActs 19:26closeActs 19:26 26 And you see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in almost all of Asia this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great many people, saying that gods made with hands are not gods. (ESV) 26 And you see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in almost all of Asia this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great many people, saying that gods made with hands are not gods. (ESV) when the Apostle Paul is accused of persuading many to follow Jesus because the word used for “persuade” is the name for the Greek goddess of persuasion. One of the ironies being that the Christian faith is not one which comes to someone else by the persuasion of men or goddesses, but by the work of the Holy Spirit, through the hearing of the Word (Romans 10:17closeRomans 10:17 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (ESV) closeRomans 10:17closeRomans 10:17 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (ESV) 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (ESV) ). Also, we need to be careful that we don’t slip into the error of Demetrius and give the credit for the conversion of people to a Pastor or even a Church; these are only the instruments of the Holy Spirit; it is by the Spirit that we cry, “Abba, Father”.

What are some of the challenges in explaining to others what faith is when starting a new ministry? _____________________
What are things that we can do to be clear? ____________________
What historical practices of the Church could be helpful? ____________________

This helps us better understand 1 Corinthians 2:4close1 Corinthians 2:4 4 and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, (ESV) close1 Corinthians 2:4close1 Corinthians 2:4 4 and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, (ESV) 4 and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, (ESV) , where the Apostle Paul plainly says, “My message and preaching were not with wise and persuasive words…” Again, the word “persuasive” being the name for the Greek goddess of persuasion; the Apostle Paul wanted to make it crystal clear that the Christian faith and it’s propagation is something entirely different from the religions familiar in that culture.

      How do we “connect with this culture” without convoluting Christ? ____________________
How much should we Pray for our Pastor and his sermon preparation? ____________________

“…is…”
Not “was”, not “will be”; no, “faith is being sure…” Faith is a present tense deal. Yesterday’s faith doesn’t help with today’s challenges; we need a present tense faith. This is the kind of faith that God gives us. He gives us faith for the moment. He gives us faith as we are going through the challenge. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me. Thank you God; you are a clear and present help. Faith is.

“…of what…”
Our faith is not just in thin air. Our faith is in the incarnation of God in human flesh! Our faith is in the Word made flesh, who made His dwelling among us; and His Name is- Jesus. Jesus is God in human history. God is not a wooden idol or a stone carving; God is not a confusing idea composed of thousands of deities; God is not something that is only worshipped and sacrificed to; but never personally experienced. Our faith has been made physically manifest in the Person of Christ; and our hope is certain because of His resurrection from the tomb after dying to pay for our sins.

How does planting new worshipping communities help? ____________________

“…we hope for…”
In the Greek version of the Old Testament (the Septuagint), the word used here for “hope” was often used there for “to flee for refuge”. Hope is where we go, wanting to be safe or maybe even to succeed. Thus the verse, “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness…” The Name of the LORD is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and they are saved. The wise man builds his house on the rock.

How does sharing the Gospel give people hope in their lives today? ____________________

“May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, Selah”  (Psalm 67:1closePsalm 67:1 Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah (ESV) closePsalm 67:1closePsalm 67:1 Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah (ESV) Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah (ESV) )

     “May God be gracious to us…”

-To be “gracious” comes from the idea of a superior bending to help an inferior (Strongs).  “May” is a request, we are asking God; we have no right to His mercy or grace; it is His choice to give us these gifts.  And in fact, He chooses to give us His grace before we even ask.

When do you find yourself asking God for grace most often? ____________________

Did you notice that we are supposed to ask that His grace be given to “us” not to “me”? ______

Why do you suppose that God wants us to ask for His grace to be given to everyone? ____________________

Why did Jesus also teach us to pray, “Our Father….” not, “My Father…”? ____________________

- For Luther, the 67^th Psalm was “to be prayed for the increase of faith” (LW vol. 43, pg. 41).  As you read this psalm do you think Luther was talking about our personal faith increasing or the collective faith of the church at large, increasing; or both? ____________________

-In January of 1524, Luther wrote the hymn, “Would That The Lord Grant Us His Grace”; taken from Psalm 67closePsalm 67 Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known on earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth. Selah
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him! (ESV) closePsalm 67closePsalm 67 Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known on earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth. Selah
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him! (ESV) Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67:1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known on earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth. Selah
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you! 6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him! (ESV) .  This is one of the songs included in “Martin Luther’s Spiritual Songs”.  How helpful is music in sharing the Gospel with others? ____________________

“…and bless us…”

-The word for “bless” is used 330 times in the Old Testament.  So many times we think of the Old Testament as being rules, regulations and condemnation; but 330 times we find “bless”.

     Why is talking about God’s blessings such an important aspect of planting new ministries? ____________________

It is pretty easy to ask for God’s blessings; when we are in need, but what about thanking God for all of the blessings that He has given to us? ____________________

-There are 75 verses in the Psalms with the word for “bless” in them.  Most of these Psalms were written by King David.

How did David experience God’s blessing in his life? _____________________

What blessings has God given the Church to share with others? ____________________

“…and make his face shine upon us.”

-A Christian wants God’s glory to shine on Him; but not yet in it’s completeness because this side of Christ’s return, our bodies have not yet been perfected.  Moses only saw God pass him by and he was made so brilliantly white that the Israelites asked him to cover his face with a veil.  In Christ, this veil has been removed from our hearts; with unveiled faces, we are being transformed into His likeness with ever increasing glory.  The day is coming when her Groom will come and nothing will separate them, not sin or death or sickness or even the devil;  the transformation will be complete.  Saul saw Christ on the road to Damascus and he lost his sight for three days, until Ananias was used by God to miraculously heal Saul.  Saul’s vision for serving God was completely wrong and only a supernatural confrontation that Christ initiated could change him.  We desire God’s glory upon us, this way we do not desire to shine in our light.

When we Pray, how can we ask God to make His face shine on us? ____________________

How is planting new ministry part of God making His face shine on others? __________________________

“I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me.”   (Psalm 30:1closePsalm 30:1 Joy Comes with the Morning A Psalm of David. A song at the dedication of the temple. 30:1 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up
and have not let my foes rejoice over me. (ESV) closePsalm 30:1closePsalm 30:1 Joy Comes with the Morning A Psalm of David. A song at the dedication of the temple. 30:1 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up
and have not let my foes rejoice over me. (ESV) Joy Comes with the Morning A Psalm of David. A song at the dedication of the temple. 30:1 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up
and have not let my foes rejoice over me. (ESV) ; from the readings for April 14, 2013)

     “I will exalt you, O LORD…”

-How will we lift up a God who dwells in the Heavens?  He is already high and lifted up.  It is not really God who is being lifted up, but rather our estimation of God that is being elevated and enlightened.  We who once were in the darkness have been brought into the Light; the Light was always there; it did not begin to exist once we were aware of it.  We exalt God when we recognize and confess that we are sinners in the presence of an awesome and mighty God.  Lord be merciful to me a sinner; these are the words that exalt God.

How will I exalt God in my Prayers today? ____________________

How will I make God exalted among the nations in my community? ____________________

How do I explain the difference between the God of the Bible and other gods? ____________________

-David’s response is one from gratitude; God’s grace produces His fruit.  Talking with God and thanking God, is a “get to” not a “got to”. When we speak about ourselves (“I will….”); it is always in reference to making God glorified; it is no longer I, but Christ who lives inside me.

What will you thank God for in your Prayers? ____________________

What ministry are people grateful for? ____________________

How do we make sure that God alone is glorified in our new ministries? ____________________

“… for You lifted me out of the depths…”

-In God alone is our strength, our help and our Redeemer.  When our own right hand fails us, He never tires.  His eye is on the sparrow, He knows your needs; there is nothing so wrong that you have gotten yourself into, that He cannot get you out of.  They say that if  you are in quicksand, that the worse thing to do is to struggle, because you will only sink quicker; you must remain still until you can be rescued.  Our own efforts cannot actually bring us out of the depth; we will only resort to stepping on the necks, shoulders and heads of others, in the hope that we can get a leg up.  We cannot lift ourselves up; we must be lifted up.  And this is what our loving Father desires to do; this is why He sent His Son into the world

What do we need to Pray about, for God to lift us up out of? ____________________

-When God lifts us up; He lifts us completely out.  In Christ, we are not partially forgiven, partially redeemed, partially adopted, partially set free, partially healed, partially welcomed or partially anything else.  In Christ, we are a new creation; the old is gone!  In Christ, there is no longer any condemnation!  In Christ, we are brought into the full inheritance that is ours, from our Heavenly Father!  In Baptism our souls are redeemed, eternally; they are the first fruits, waiting the resurrection of our bodies.  If you have been born from above, not by the will of a man; but by the work of the Holy Spirit, your soul is now redeemed; even if your body is not yet raised.  Because God now dwells inside you, He works out in you, your new life.  Sin no longer has any eternal control over you; you are redeemed.  It was for freedom, that Christ set you free.

What “depths” have we seen people fall into in our community? __________________

Who should we gather for Prayer about this need? __________________

“…and did not let my enemies gloat over me…”

-Let God fight for you.

“Praise the LORD.  Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above.”  (Psalm 148:1closePsalm 148:1 Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights! (ESV) closePsalm 148:1closePsalm 148:1 Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights! (ESV) Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights! (ESV) ; from the Psalm reading for April 28, 2013)

The word for “Praise” is used 165 times in the Old Testament.  Genesis 12:15closeGenesis 12:15 15 And when the princes of Pharaoh saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh. And the woman was taken into Pharaoh's house. (ESV) closeGenesis 12:15closeGenesis 12:15 15 And when the princes of Pharaoh saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh. And the woman was taken into Pharaoh's house. (ESV) 15 And when the princes of Pharaoh saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh. And the woman was taken into Pharaoh's house. (ESV) is the first time we find the word being used; Pharaoh praised the beauty of Sarai, Abram’s wife.  Joel 2:26closeJoel 2:26 26 “You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied,
and praise the name of the Lord your God,
who has dealt wondrously with you.
And my people shall never again be put to shame. (ESV) closeJoel 2:26closeJoel 2:26 26 “You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied,
and praise the name of the Lord your God,
who has dealt wondrously with you.
And my people shall never again be put to shame. (ESV) 26 “You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied,
and praise the name of the Lord your God,
who has dealt wondrously with you.
And my people shall never again be put to shame. (ESV) is the last time we find it used; two verses later is when God says He will pour out His Spirit on the sons and daughters, the young men and the old men.  The Psalms is where we find the highest concentration of the word, “Praise”; it is found 94 times in the Psalms (over 50% of the entire Old Testament usage).  Of all the Psalms, none uses “Praise” as much as Psalm 148closePsalm 148 Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his hosts! 3 Praise him, sun and moon,
praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens! 5 Let them praise the name of the Lord!
For he commanded and they were created.
6 And he established them forever and ever;
he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away. 7 Praise the Lord from the earth,
you great sea creatures and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and mist,
stormy wind fulfilling his word! 9 Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Beasts and all livestock,
creeping things and flying birds! 11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and maidens together,
old men and children! 13 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his majesty is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,
praise for all his saints,
for the people of Israel who are near to him.
Praise the Lord! (ESV) closePsalm 148closePsalm 148 Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his hosts! 3 Praise him, sun and moon,
praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens! 5 Let them praise the name of the Lord!
For he commanded and they were created.
6 And he established them forever and ever;
he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away. 7 Praise the Lord from the earth,
you great sea creatures and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and mist,
stormy wind fulfilling his word! 9 Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Beasts and all livestock,
creeping things and flying birds! 11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and maidens together,
old men and children! 13 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his majesty is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,
praise for all his saints,
for the people of Israel who are near to him.
Praise the Lord! (ESV) Praise the Name of the Lord 148:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his hosts! 3 Praise him, sun and moon,
praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens! 5 Let them praise the name of the Lord!
For he commanded and they were created.
6 And he established them forever and ever;
he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away. 7 Praise the Lord from the earth,
you great sea creatures and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and mist,
stormy wind fulfilling his word! 9 Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Beasts and all livestock,
creeping things and flying birds! 11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and maidens together,
old men and children! 13 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his majesty is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,
praise for all his saints,
for the people of Israel who are near to him.
Praise the Lord! (ESV) (Psalm 150closePsalm 150 Let Everything Praise the Lord 150:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens!
2 Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his excellent greatness! 3 Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
4 Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
5 Praise him with sounding cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (ESV) closePsalm 150closePsalm 150 Let Everything Praise the Lord 150:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens!
2 Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his excellent greatness! 3 Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
4 Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
5 Praise him with sounding cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (ESV) Let Everything Praise the Lord 150:1 Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens!
2 Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his excellent greatness! 3 Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
4 Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
5 Praise him with sounding cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord! (ESV) comes in second).

Praise can be dangerous; if we are praising others above God; we are sinning.  How do we keep God first in the Praise of our hearts, minds, tongues and Prayers? _____________________

The original idea behind “Praise” is “to shine” (from Strong’s).  When we are praising something we are shining light on it.  God who is creator of light is therefore due the highest praise from us.  We cannot create light and we ourselves are not light; Jesus is the light of the world; any light coming from us was given to us by God and is from God who indwells every believer.

When we plant new ministry, our own identity can get very wrapped up in the new ministry; how do we keep our proper place and make sure that God is given His proper place? _____________________

There is false light in this world as well.  There are Angels of darkness that masquerade as Angels of light.  This is not light at all, but a trap and a temptation.  It has the appearance of Godliness but it is only a snare.  Jesus was tempted by Satan in this way, when Satan showed Jesus the light of the cities and falsely claimed it as his and something that he could give to Jesus.  The ends do not justify the means.  We must walk in the light (Psalm 89:15closePsalm 89:15 15 Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face, (ESV) closePsalm 89:15closePsalm 89:15 15 Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face, (ESV) 15 Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face, (ESV) and 1 John 1:7close1 John 1:7 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. (ESV) close1 John 1:7close1 John 1:7 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. (ESV) 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. (ESV) )

How does Prayer help us discern truth from evil? _____________________

To “Praise the LORD.” is to glorify the LORD.  We are to glorify the LORD for every good thing in our lives.  When our children do well in school, we are to glorify the LORD for this.  When we have a baby, we are to glorify the LORD for this.  When our parents are blessed with good health, we are to glorify the LORD for this.  When others turn against us and falsely accuse us, when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death; we are to glorify the LORD for He is with us and He will not abandon or forsake us.

How much of our Prayer time should be spent in praising and glorifying the LORD? ____________________

“Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.” (John 21:2closeJohn 21:2 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. (ESV) closeJohn 21:2closeJohn 21:2 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. (ESV) 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. (ESV) )

There were only seven of the disciples together in this setting; two of the disciples present are not named directly, two are known only by inference.  This post Easter gathering resembles post Easter Sundays today; the attendance was terrible.  For some reason, one of the worst attended Sundays of the year is the one following Easter.  Apparently this tradition is Apostolic in origin.  When we are planting new ministries, we often follow the attendance numbers very closely; perhaps too closely.

What lesson does this verse tell us about attendance numbers and the longevity of ministry? ____________________

“I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.” (John 21:3closeJohn 21:3 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. (ESV) closeJohn 21:3closeJohn 21:3 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. (ESV) 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. (ESV) ) 

“I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them

The Holy Spirit had not yet come upon the Disciples (Acts 1:8closeActs 1:8 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (ESV) closeActs 1:8closeActs 1:8 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (ESV) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (ESV) ); Peter was working in his vocation- a fisherman.  Pastors are men, just like any other; they are believers, filled with the Holy Spirit.  If they were not Pastors, they would be fishermen or hold some other occupation.  Peter was loved by Jesus as much when he fished as when he preached.  Pastors have skills and talents that they could use if they were not called to Pray and Preach.

Are there any specific people that you are praying for, that they would enter full time ministry?  ____________________

What challenges are they facing that might keep them from entering the ministry? ____________________

How much faith does it take to leave a way of earning an income that you understand, to trust in God; His gifts and His Church to provide a way of living for a man and his family that is considering entering full time ministry? _____________________

How can we make our full time Church workers feel more secure? __________________

+   +   +

and they said, “We’ll go with you.”

People follow leaders; sometimes to good, sometimes to bad.  People are looking for leaders; there is a reason why God calls us “sheep”; sheep follow.  Leaders often feel alone; because many times, they do not have the luxury of seeing someone to follow nearby.  Peter and the disciples were dealing with loneliness on this day; they were glad to have seen the resurrected Christ, but they were alone at this time and they must have begun to understand that they would soon be absent in the body from Christ.

Just because people follow you doesn’t mean you are leading them in the right direction.  But if no one is following you, then you are not a leader.  Pastors must be apt to preach and teach.

Are there ministries that we can offer to our community to help the lonely? ____________________

When do people feel lonely in life? ____________________

+   +   +

 So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

One way that God calls men into the Pastoral office is by allowing their business to suffer.  Martin Luther was on his way to law school when he was caught in a frightening storm; Luther hid in the woods and prayed (to a saint unfortunately); and made the proverbial deal with God- Luther promised God that if He took care of him in this situation, that he would serve God; the rest as they say, is history.

Why is it important for Pastors and those serving in ministry, to be humble? __________________

When considering a candidate for ministry, we are wise to investigate them; but when we see that they have not always had success in their vocation prior to the ministry, we would be wise to remember this text.

“After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.” (John 20:20closeJohn 20:20 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) closeJohn 20:20closeJohn 20:20 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) ; from the Gospel reading for April 7, 2013)

   “… he showed them…”

-“20/20 vision” (John 20:20closeJohn 20:20 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) closeJohn 20:20closeJohn 20:20 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. (ESV) )-  When our eyes are fixed on Jesus who is the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, scorned it’s shame and sat down at the right hand of God the Father ; when we consider Jesus who endured so much from sinful people; we will get the right perspective on things.

How does watching a movie like “The Passion” help you see Christ in a new way? _____________________

How does Jesus give you strength to share the Gospel? ____________________

Could you have looked Jesus in the eyes after deserting Him? ____

-The first time we see the Greek word for “showed” is in Matthew 4:8closeMatthew 4:8 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. (ESV) closeMatthew 4:8closeMatthew 4:8 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. (ESV) 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. (ESV) where the Devil takes Jesus up on the mountain to tempt Him.  Not all things that we see are helpful for our faith.  When we Pray, we must ask Jesus to show us what we need to see for our faith.   Our faith is not strengthened by our own reason, but by the work of the Holy Spirit; He restores in us the joy of our salvation and renews a steadfast spirit within us.

When does Jesus show you things / thoughts that strengthen your faith? _____________________

“…his hands and side…”

-We proclaim Christ crucified; foolishness to the Greeks and a stumbling block to the Jews.  What we proclaim is not the wisdom of man or clever sayings designed to persuade people through logic.  The strength of the Gospel is that God became weak and Christ became sin; that we might have complete and total victory over sin, death and the devil.

In our desire to see many hear the Good News, we are tempted to trust in means other than the Good News.  How does God use us to show others the wounds of Christ that He suffered for us? ____________________

-They did not need to examine Jesus’ feet;  they believed it was Jesus after seeing His hands and side; this was enough.  Jesus has more than enough “proof” for you; come and see for yourself also.  If you feel guilty over “needing proof”; don’t.  Jesus has always had disciples who needed “evidence”.

How important is providing “evidence” of God’s love to others when we are planting a new ministry? ____________________

-It does not appear that Jesus was frustrated with His disciples to examine both His hands and His side; even though they had been with Him for several years.

How do we keep from getting frustrated when we have to Pray for the same people, struggling with the same sins for years on end? ____________________

“The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.”

-Seeing Jesus makes us happy also.  We see Jesus in His Supper; we see Jesus in our midst when we are gathered with even just one other believer; Easter is such a joyful day, even 2000 years later, because we know that on this day, the disciples saw Jesus and their joy has been passed down to us.  Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit; it is an evidence of someone who has seen Jesus- being a sourpuss is not a sign of sanctification, but one of self-centeredness and self-absorption.

How does being joyful help with the proclamation of the Gospel to a lost and dying world? _____________________

      “Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter,” (John 10:22closeJohn 10:22 I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, (ESV) closeJohn 10:22closeJohn 10:22 I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, (ESV) I and the Father Are One 22 At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, (ESV) )

-Judas Maccabeus drove out the Syrians from Jerusalem in 164 BC; after which the Jewish people rededicated the altar in the temple (this was the second temple built by the Jewish people, Solomon’s temple having been destroyed earlier).  The Feast of Dedication occurred in the middle of our month of December; it lasted 8 days; lights and candles were a prominent part of the celebration.  It is easy to see worldly prominence as a visible sign of God’s blessing on our efforts; this success in driving out the Syrians was seen by the Jewish people as God’s blessing on them.  As Christians today, if we are not careful we will evaluate God’s opinion of us based on our success/lack of success in the areas of politics and legal decisions.  Jesus would prophesy regarding this temple that it would all be torn down (and it was).  It must have been very hard for the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, to hear that this sacred building that meant so much to them was not going to exist anymore for the worship of God.

What happens to the mission of Christ when it is confused and comingled with national military/political concerns? __________________________________

-Winter is the end of one year, the New Year is about to come.  It is a time when life seems to retract.  But God orders the seasons and establishes their boundaries.  Jesus had come to bring the New Covenant that God had prophesied about through Jeremiah (Jeremiah 31:31closeJeremiah 31:31 The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) closeJeremiah 31:31closeJeremiah 31:31 The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) The New Covenant 31 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, (ESV) ); the old was ending, the new was coming.

What new ministry in this next year are you Praying about? _______________________________________

23 and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon’s Colonnade.

-Solomon’s Colonnade was left over from the first temple; having been spared by the Chaldeans.  This structure was 400 cubits high (a cubit measurement was 20.6 inches when used to measure buildings; a cubit used in commerce was 16-18 inches); so this structure was about 8,240 inches tall (which equals approximately 686 feet tall)  There are individual stones in the supporting wall that are 20 cubits long.  This building was built to facilitate worship of the one true living God; but this building with all of it’s impressiveness is not what God was interested in- He wants a loving relationship with His children; He wants His Son to have a healthy relationship with His bride- the Church.

What happens when we make a building, more important in our ministry focus than the relationship of people with God? ________________