tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-307548182011-07-07T21:30:35.953-07:00What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus in a post-modern center-city world?Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.comBlogger1111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-72107268099271902022009-07-14T12:02:00.000-07:002009-07-14T13:02:31.881-07:00A fresh and excitingly new way of living<br />Colossians 3: 12 – 17<br /><br />What is your absolutely favorite song of all time and why do you like it so much?<br /><br /><br />Describe the virtues that God expects to be in our lives as a reflection of Jesus’ new life in us.<br /><br /><br />Why is it so vital that these kinds of things are reflected in our daily lives? <br /><br /><br />Why are these things so frequently absent from lives that claim to be devoted to Jesus?<br /><br />Rate these virtues on a scale of 1 to 10. How likely are you to demonstrate each particular virtue in your everyday life?<br /><br /><br />What steps have you taken to allow these kinds of attitudes and behaviors to be reflected in your life? <br /><br /><br />What steps could you take this week to further allow these patterns of the new life to break through?<br /><br /><br />What would you look for in a person who could help to hold you accountable for growth in these areas? <br /><br /><br />How in the world is singing related to behavior that is being changed by Jesus’ message and teaching?<br /><br /><br />In what ways do you see the word of Jesus leaking out in your words and actions? <br /><br /><br />Why is important that we encourage one another in our spiritual journeys? <br /><br /><br />What is something that you could do this week to encourage another disciple in their walk?<br /><br /><br />Pull out the guitar and sing a couple of encouraging spiritual songs. <br /><br /><br />What percentage of your actions on a daily basis would you be comfortable to which to sign Jesus’ name? <br /><br /><br />Why does Paul use this as his summary statement for this ethical section of the letter? <br /><br /><br />How could you remind yourself during the day to run your actions and words through this filter? <br /><br /><br />Memorize verse 16 and meditate on it for one hour this week. Review the verses you have memorized previously.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7210726809927190202?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-34356716967642672352009-07-06T15:01:00.000-07:002009-07-06T15:05:37.095-07:00Something that is worth talking about<br />Colossians 1: 1 – 8<br /><br />What is the best subject heading you have ever received for an email?<br /><br /><br />Based on these verses, how would you describe the relationship between the Colossians and Paul?<br /><br /><br />Why is Paul so concerned about the spiritual health of a people he has never met personally?<br /><br /><br />What are some ways this week you could encourage fellow disciples you have never met?<br /><br /><br />How does Paul describe the good news about Jesus in this text? <br /><br /><br />What is it about the good news about Jesus that is so incredibly exciting to Paul? <br /><br /><br />Describe Paul’s relationship with God based on this text.<br /><br /><br />What needs to change in your life for you to exhibit this kind of enthusiasm about Jesus and his message?<br /><br /><br />What impact are Jesus and his message having upon the Colossian people? <br /><br /><br />How is this good news able to impact these folks so deeply?<br /><br /><br />What impact are Jesus and his message having upon your everyday life? <br /><br /><br />How would it feel to be part of a community so sold-out to Jesus and his ways? <br /><br /><br />What steps could you take to be more open to surrendering to his good news? <br /><br /><br />Memorize verse 5 tonight and spend an hour meditating on this verse this week.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-3435671696764267235?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-59060247400296070252009-06-29T15:30:00.000-07:002009-06-29T15:33:58.301-07:00Focusing our minds on the real home of our souls<br />Colossians 3: 1 – 4<br /><br />Which do you like better (and why): a sunset, a star-lit sky, an air show, or fireworks?<br /><br /><br />In what way have followers of Jesus been “raised” with Jesus? <br /><br /><br />Why does Paul use the resurrection as his ground for the concept of a transformed Christian life? <br /><br /><br />How has Jesus’ resurrection begun to make things new in your life? <br /><br /><br />What are the earthly things that Paul is saying we should not make the focus of our minds? <br /><br /><br />What are the heavenly things that Paul is insisting should be our focus. <br /><br /><br />Why does he argue for this change in perspective? <br /><br /><br />What earthly things are most distracting to you in your spiritual journey? <br /><br /><br />What does Paul argue is the absolute focal point of the things that are above? <br /><br /><br />What thoughts or values or attitudes do you have that makes focusing on Jesus’ reign in heaven difficult? <br /><br /><br />In a practical sense, how can we experience this change in perspective? <br /><br /><br />In what ways have disciples metaphorically or spiritually died with Jesus? <br /><br /><br />What does it mean for our lives to be hidden in Jesus? <br /><br /><br />Why is the return of Jesus something for which every disciple should be longing? <br /><br /><br />How should these truths change the way that we view our lives? <br /><br /><br />Memorize the passage and mediate on it for one hour this week. <br /><br /><br />Be sure to review this week the other verses you have memorized as well.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5906024740029607025?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-13971683852048020212009-06-22T16:11:00.000-07:002009-06-22T16:16:34.454-07:00Habits that can distract you from what is most important<br />Colossians 2: 16 – 23<br /><br />What are some habits that you have established in your life? <br /><br /><br />Describe the false teaching that Paul is combating in this region based on his statements in tonight’s passage. <br /><br /><br />What kinds of things do those who support this false teaching use to judge others? <br /><br /><br />Based on our evidence, how would you describe the character of those who are doing this judging?<br /><br /><br />What are some standards that you use to judge other people that do not line up with the gospel of Jesus?<br /><br /><br />How can we go about becoming less judgmental people? <br /><br /><br />What is it about the teaching of these false teachers that is so incredibly false? <br /><br /><br />Why are the rituals that are being described in this text considered to be of no spiritual value for a disciple? <br /><br /><br />Why is Paul so terribly concerned that the Colossians disregard the warnings these folks are giving?<br /><br /><br />What are some spiritually neutral habits that our culture has elevated to the point of religious observance? <br /><br /><br />Which of these are most distracting to you in your spiritual journey? <br /><br /><br />How can we distinguish between changes that are vital in our lives to reflect our faith and those that are optional? <br /><br /><br />How do we effectively differentiate between practicing healthy spiritual discipline, harmless everyday practices, and unhealthy ritual habits? <br /><br /><br />What is Jesus’ relationship to those who are sincere disciple’s according to this text? <br /><br /><br />According to Paul, how does a person demonstrate that they are not plugged into Jesus? <br /><br /><br />How can we make sure we are connected to Jesus in the advice that we give to other disciples? <br /><br /><br />Memorize verse 17 and meditate on it for one hour this week.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1397168385204802021?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-84733089836074170102009-06-16T15:43:00.000-07:002009-06-16T15:48:16.019-07:00A surprisingly absolute spiritual revolution<br />Colossians 2: 9 – 15<br /><br />When is a time in your life that you got into some trouble with the law? <br /><br /><br />Describe the person of Jesus as he is portrayed in this passage. <br /><br /><br />Why does Paul keep spending time dwelling upon these theological truths about Jesus?<br /><br /><br />What has Paul added to our knowledge about Jesus in this text from what he has already told us?<br /><br /><br />What could you do this week that would help you to learn more about Jesus?<br /><br /><br />What impact does the death of Jesus have upon our lives and the world according to this text? <br /><br /><br />How does Jesus’ death make the things that Paul is describing possible for us? <br /><br /><br />Why does Paul seem to be so fixated on Jesus’ death on the cross?<br /><br /><br />How open are you to more deeply embracing the free gift that Jesus offered by his death? <br /><br /><br />How does Paul describe the lives of the Colossians prior to their acceptance of the gospel? <br /><br /><br />Describe the change that they experience in their lives because of Jesus’ spiritual revolution.<br /><br /><br />Why does Jesus’ death have this kind of enormous effect on upon them? <br /><br /><br />According to this passage, what is our part in receiving the free gift of the gospel? <br /><br /><br />How does your life need to change because of what Jesus has done for you?<br /><br /><br />How does the reality of what Jesus has done for us impact your emotions towards God? <br /><br /><br />What can you do to demonstrate your thankfulness to him this week for what Jesus has done? <br /><br /><br />Memorize verse 13 and meditate upon it for one hour this week.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8473308983607417010?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-16494358154828601592009-06-03T14:03:00.000-07:002009-06-03T14:08:23.527-07:00Who is your worst enemy in the whole world, and why are they your enemy?<br /><br /><br />What makes a person an enemy of God according to this text? <br /><br /><br />Why does sin create this kind of rift in a relationship with God? <br /><br /><br />What are some ways that you have acted like God’s enemy this past week? <br /><br /><br />Why is it so easy for us to lapse into those kinds of negative behaviors? <br /><br /><br />According to this text what has God done in order to bring this church back into right relationship with God? <br /><br /><br />How does the death of Jesus on the cross deal with the problem of our evil behavior? <br /><br /><br />What are some changes that God desires to make in your attitudes, values, and actions based on what Jesus’ death? <br /><br /><br />What role do we play as individuals in this relationship with God? <br /><br /><br />Why are we expected to continue trusting him in order to experience this relationship with him? <br /><br /><br />What are some practical steps that a person can take to stand firm in their belief in a world that is full doubt, skepticism, and cynicism? <br /><br /><br />What does it mean to be a person who is a servant of the good news of Jesus? <br /><br /><br />Why does Paul wear that title like a badge of honor when talking with this and other churches? <br /><br /><br />How could you function more as a servant of the good news of Jesus this week among your friends?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1649435815482860159?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-25042336719862362052009-03-31T08:11:00.000-07:002009-03-31T08:13:10.786-07:00Luke 16: 13, 16 – 17<br /><br />Make a list of 10 things that have more value to you personally than cash.<br /><br />Memorize verse 13.<br />If a person has two equal bosses what is likely to happen in their career?<br />What are some ways that money can act like a master in a person's life?<br />What are some steps a person can take to ensure finances are not gaining too much of a hold on their values and motives?<br />How have financial concerns cracked the whip in your life recently?<br />What are you going to do this week to gain the kind of freedom Jesus is discussing in this text.<br /><br />Read verses 16 – 17.<br />Describe Jesus' view of history as he describes it in this passage.<br />What does Jesus consider to be his role in this tale of salvation history?<br />What is Jesus' view towards the Old Testament Scriptures? <br />Why does Jesus have such a high view of the Old Testament?<br />How should your view of the Scriptures change based on Jesus' endorsement? <br /><br />Why does God demand such absolute loyalty towards him and his Kingdom?<br />What does God's law say about the place financial resources should have in our lives?<br />What role should God's law play in the life of a disciple of Jesus?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2504233671986236205?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-28788711242914921472009-03-31T08:10:00.000-07:002009-03-31T08:11:51.296-07:00Setting the correct priorities in life<br />Luke 14: 5, 16 - 23, 26 - 27, 34 – 35<br /><br />Based upon your bills and your calendar, what are your most significant priorities? <br /><br />Memorize verse 5.<br />Describe the context of this verse in Luke's recounting of the gospel story.<br />Based on this verse what is Jesus' perspective on the Sabbath day?<br />What kinds of exceptions would Jesus make in our contemporary society for breaking a day of rest?<br />What is your day of rest? How closely do you protect having that time?<br /><br />Read verses 16 – 23.<br />Trace your range of emotions as you are the servant trying to invite people to this particular party. <br />Into what categories would you place the different excuses that the invited guests give to the servant. <br />What would you assume is the real reason that they are not going to this banquet?<br />Why does the master choose to fill his party with the riffraff from the city streets and the highway rest-stops?<br />What excuses do you give in your daily life to avoid spending quality time with God?<br />How can a person become more likely to include devotional time in their lives?<br /><br />Read verses 26 – 27.<br />What argument might you give to avoid having to live out Jesus' teaching here?<br />What does Jesus mean by his hyperbolic statement that we are to hate our loved ones?<br />What stigma would carrying an execution implement have for people during Jesus' time?<br />What does it really mean to carry a cross in following Jesus?<br />What are some ways that following Jesus has broken you and your family?<br />How can we become more open to the severe kind of love Jesus brings into our lives?<br /><br />Read verses 34 – 35.<br />What are some of the many uses for salt that makes it such a valuable commodity?<br />How does salt go about losing its salty qualities?<br />How is salt an accurate illustration of the lives of followers of Jesus?<br />What are some ways that God wants to use you to season and preserve this community? <br />What are some things that threaten to mix into your life and neutralize your effectiveness as a representative of Jesus?<br />How does a person go about keeping their lives pure in a messy world?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2878871124291492147?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-63450575805584121452009-03-10T14:17:00.000-07:002009-03-10T14:18:47.117-07:00<span style="font-style:italic;">Luke 12: 2 - 12, 22 - 31, 33 - 34, 39 - 40, 42 - 46, 51 - 53, 57 – 59</span><br /><br />What would you say are the most important changes that need to happen in this city?<br /><br />Read verses 2 – 12.<br />Why does Jesus start this talk by reminding people that their hidden thoughts will be brought to light?<br />What does it mean to fear God? What is it about God that makes him worthy of our trust and respect?<br />Describe the kind of loyalty that God expects from his people.<br />Why is it considered high treason to speak against the Holy Spirit.<br />When are some times that you tend to be disloyal to God?<br />How can you develop a better attitude towards God in your life?<br /><br />Read verses 22 – 34.<br />Describe Jesus' over-all perspective on material possessions.<br />Why is it ridiculous for a Jesus-follower to worry about their needs?<br />Why is it so likely that we do exactly that every day? <br />What are some activities that Jesus would argue help to cure materialism.<br />Why is generosity in general such a powerful tool against valuing things too highly?<br />What is a worry that you need to entrust to God tonight?<br />What is an asset that you need to share with someone else this week?<br /><br />Read verses 39 – 46.<br />How does the reality of an immanent return of Jesus effect the everyday lives of those who are his disciples?<br />Based on this passage what does it mean to be ready for Jesus' return? <br />How does your life need to change to be prepared for his arrival?<br /><br />Why might some scholars consider some verses in this sermon as editorial comments by Luke? Why does that not change the way we view those verses?<br /><br />Read verses 51 – 53 and 57 – 59.<br />Is Jesus a divisive or uniting character? Why is he at peace with causing confrontation?<br />How have you seen Jesus create tensions in your relationships? <br />Why are we so uncomfortable with that kind of tension?<br />Contrast Jesus' teaching in verse 57 – 59 with his tone in 51 – 53. <br />Why does he encourage us to resolve our personal conflicts through plea bargains?<br />What is the difference between personal conflicts and conflicts based on the Kingdom? <br />What is a personal conflict that you need to resolve this week?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6345057580558412145?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-84945062279859581612009-03-04T14:54:00.000-08:002009-03-04T15:00:26.425-08:00<span style="font-style:italic;">Luke 11</span><br /><br />What is usually your first clue that you are about to get seriously ill?<br /><br />Read verses 11: 2 – 4. How would you describe the prayer that Jesus teaches his disciples?<br /><br />For each element of the prayer, why does he have his disciples pray that way?<br /><br />How does your prayer life need to change based upon the example Jesus gives?<br /><br />Pray the Lord's prayer together as a group to help memorize the example.<br /><br />Read verses 9 – 13. How do Jesus' promises in this passage make you feel as you hear them?<br /><br />What is the scope of the promises that Jesus makes?<br /><br />Why does Jesus use a relationship with a parent to illustrate our relationship with God?<br /><br />How should the perspective this text gives alter your prayer experience this week?<br /><br />Read verses 14 – 21. Imagine you are the mute man who has his demon removed. How does it feel the instant you realize that you are free?<br /><br />Why does Jesus exorcise people as a part of his ministry?<br /><br />Why does some of the crowd react in a negative way to this gracious act?<br /><br />Trace Jesus' argument with them. What does his argument teach us about the spiritual world?<br /><br />What is an area in your life in which you need to experience spiritual freedom?<br /><br />Read verses 24 – 26. Explain the spiritual world as described by this passage.<br /><br />If evil spirits have a tendency of returning to a re-organized heart, how does a person make sure they stay away?<br /><br />What is a bad habit that you find has a way of returning to your life over and over again?<br /><br />How can you get freedom from this stronghold?<br /><br />Read verses 29 – 32. Why are people asking for a sign from Jesus?<br /><br />Why does this request frustrate Jesus so deeply?<br /><br />Why does Jesus argue that two Gentile examples are facing a better time at judgment than his own generation will?<br /><br />What is the sign that we have that Jesus really is who he claims to be?<br /><br />What are you going to do tonight to show that you accept his sign?<br /><br />Read verses 33 – 36. What is the light that Jesus is referring to in this parable?<br /><br />Compare and contrast how good spiritual eyes and bad spiritual eyes function in life?<br /><br />Why is it so important to have good spiritual eyes?<br /><br />How does a person go about acquiring good spiritual eyes?<br /><br />Read verses 39 – 43 and 46 – 52. Why might some scholars argue that Luke added verse 41 as an editorial note?<br /><br />Even if he did, does that really change the way we look at that verse?<br /><br />Compare and contrast Jesus' teaching and the religious leaders view of cleanliness.<br /><br />Why does Jesus focus on internal cleanliness?<br /><br />What cleaning does your heart need?<br /><br />Describe some of Jesus' criticisms of the lifestyle of the religious leaders.<br /><br />What would you say is the primary issue between Jesus and the religious leaders?<br /><br />What woe might Jesus say to you if you were one of the religious leaders?<br /><br />Why is it particularly bad to prevent others from involvement in God's kingdom?<br /><br />What are some ways that your tendencies are violently opposed to God's kingdom?<br /><br />How do you tend to make it difficult for others to experience God's design?<br /><br />What is the process you will go through to change when you discover these patterns in your life?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8494506227985958161?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-20929601103793624602009-02-23T15:11:00.000-08:002009-02-23T15:17:12.403-08:00Luke 10: 2 – 16<br /><br />What is your favorite source for national and international news? <br /><br />What makes you value that source over other potential sources?<br /><br />Imagine you were an ancient agricultural worker. How would it feel to have a harvest that was ready to be acquired without the workforce to accomplish the task?<br /><br />Why does Jesus ask them to pray for more harvesters and then immediately send them out on the dangerous journey of harvesting themselves?<br /><br />What factors make the harvesting of souls dangerous work?<br /><br />What is it about this dangerous catch that makes it worth it to Jesus to risk his disciples’ safety?<br /><br />What are some of the risks that you take to share the gospel with your co-workers and friends?<br /><br />How can we discern when is the appropriate time to take the risk of connecting words with our actions?<br /><br />Describe Jesus’ instructions for these new messengers as the go out on their mission.<br /><br />Why does it seem that Jesus is stacking the deck against their success?<br /><br />Why does he tell them to rely upon the hospitality of others?<br /><br />What kinds of actions are they specifically to do in their ministry to these towns?<br /><br />How might these instructions be applied to our ministry to our friends and neighbors?<br /><br />How does someone develop a humble enough attitude to accept hospitality?<br /><br />Share with me specifically the message that God has called us to tell our friends?<br /><br />How would you describe the tone of Jesus’ discourse in verses 13 – 16?<br /><br />What is it about these towns that cause Jesus to lament so deeply?<br /><br />What does his lament tell us about the gravity of accepting or rejecting the gospel message?<br /><br />How does a person determine when they are to move on to ministering to a different group, block, or neighborhood?<br /><br />How hospitable is your heart to the message of Jesus?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2092960110379362460?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1834641907230473312009-02-04T13:45:00.000-08:002009-02-04T13:49:57.782-08:00Luke 6: 20—23, 27—45, 47—49<br /><br />How do you go about recognizing a jerk when you see one?<br /><br />Read verses 20 – 23. Describe the kind of person who according to Jesus is living a happy life.<br /><br />How does this perspective of blessedness contrast with our usual way of defining happiness?<br /><br />What would be Jesus’ reasoning for arguing that those kind of people are blessed?<br /><br />How well do you relate to the blessed people Jesus describes in this passage?<br /><br />What are some ways that you are poor, or hunger, or weep, or are excluded?<br /><br />How do you tend to react when you realize you are in such a negative situation?<br /><br />How does this text help you see your life from a different angle?<br /><br />How should you react when you identify yourself as someone Jesus mentions in this passage?<br /><br />Read verses 27 – 45.<br />What are some categories into which you might place Jesus’ teachings in this passage?<br /><br />In general, how would you describe Jesus’ expectation on how we should treat other people?<br /><br />What reasons does Jesus give us for his demand for us to treat others that way?<br /><br />Which of Jesus’ teachings in this text do you find most difficult to practically apply?<br /><br />Which of these teachings do you find most personally appealing?<br /><br />Reading this text, in what way are you most convicted in your personal life?<br /><br />Spend some time right now praying and asking Jesus to help you gain victory in that area.<br /><br />Read verses 47 – 49. What metaphor does Jesus use to describe the different responses people have to his teaching?<br /><br />How is this metaphor particularly apropos when discussing life teaching in his setting?<br /><br />Why is Jesus so confident about the practical impact of his teachings in people’s lives?<br /><br />In what ways is your life founded upon the rock of Jesus’ teaching?<br /><br />In what ways is your life built upon your own presuppositions?<br /><br />How have you seen the truth of Jesus’ metaphor demonstrated in your own personal experience?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-183464190723047331?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-53648079194581173982009-01-26T11:52:00.000-08:002009-01-26T11:53:45.049-08:00[Click on title for MPEG of related message]<br />Luke 3: 7 – 9, 16 – 17<br /><br />What is the most creative means of discipline your parents ever used upon you? <br /><br />Read verses 7 – 9.<br />Imagine you are approaching John the Baptist teaching out in the desert. What emotions are you coping with as you draw close to the crowd that has gathered? How does it feel to be visiting this crazy guy out in the sticks? <br /><br />Describe John’s overall style of teaching? Why is he so intensely harsh with those who have come so far? What is something in your life that is nauseating to God? What are you going to do this week to remove that from your life?<br /><br />In what do John’s hearers seem to be placing their hope for a better future? <br />Delineate the argument John uses to prove that their hopes are misplaced.<br />In what do people trust today rather than putting their faith in God?<br /><br />Define the metaphor that John uses to describe the consequences of a faithless life.<br />How is that a particularly appropriate image in his particular setting?<br />What would be some modern images we could use to convey the same truth to our friends? <br />How do we go about avoiding the horrible fate pending those who have misplaced faith?<br /><br />Read verses 16 – 17.<br />Based on these verses, describe in your own words the person that John is hoping to arrive on the scene. <br />John is a fairly prominent and popular teacher, why does act like such a groupie towards someone he probably had never met in his adult life? <br />How does your attitude towards Jesus need to change based on what you see in this text? <br />In a practical way, how do people go about building humility into their lives?<br />What are some ways that Jesus has figuratively immersed you in fire during the course of your life? <br />What does the Holy Spirit desire to blast out of your life tonight? Are you willing to surrender to His revolution in your heart?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5364807919458117398?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-49593008504418382032008-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:002008-12-15T08:03:06.669-08:00<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4959300850441838203?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-80736215269052131642008-11-19T18:09:00.000-08:002008-11-19T18:14:30.769-08:00Judges 19<br /><br />What is the most unusual gift that you have ever received?<br /><br />Why is this passage introduced by the lack of a monarchy in Israel?<br /><br />Is Israel truly without a king at this point, and if so, why are they without a king?<br /><br />Describe the relationship between the Levite and his concubine at the beginning of the story.<br /><br />Why does the girl’s father keep stalling them from beginning the long journey back from Bethlehem to Ephraim?<br /><br />Imagine you are going on this dangerous journey in the ancient world. What thoughts are going through your head as you leave the safety of home?<br /><br />What does it say about Israel that the servant wants to stay in Jebus for the night?<br /><br />Why does the Benjaminite want to get to an Israelite city so badly?<br /><br />What does it tell us about Gibeah that no one offers them hospitality there?<br /><br />What are some parallels between the old man in the square and Lot at Sodom?<br />Why does the old man insist that they not spend the night in the square?<br /><br />Describe the hospitality that the old man provides for them.<br /><br />The story takes a harsh turn in verse 22 and forward. What is revealed about the character of the Israelite people that this roving gang of rapists is allowed <br />to continue in this town?<br /><br />What does it say about their character that they offer their daughter and concubine rather than themselves to this rogue mob?<br /><br />Why does the man set his concubine outside the door all by herself that night?<br /><br />What is his attitude towards her the next morning after that inexpressibly horrible night?<br /><br />What is his purpose in dismembering her and grotesque, morbid gesture of sending her body parts out to the other tribes?<br /><br />Describe the attitude of the narrator as we come to the end of this text.<br /><br />What do you expect the responses of the other Israelites will be to this horrible event?<br /><br />Why does God allow such awful things to happen in his world, among his own people?<br /><br />When have been some times that you have been person ally confronted by the dangers and violence of the city?<br /><br />What are some things that we as followers of Jesus can do to help stop violence in our communities?<br /><br />What are some steps that you need to take to improve the relationships you have with those closest to you?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8073621526905213164?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-15779656666886335582008-11-11T16:13:00.000-08:002008-11-11T16:25:38.255-08:00Judges 11<br /><br /> When has one of your friends or colleagues really put their foot in their mouth?<br /><br />Describe in detail Jephthah’s family of origin.<br /><br />What problems from his family may have shaped his later activity?<br /><br />What are some other stories in our culture that you are reminded of when you hear of his “group of adventurers” who are with him?<br /><br />How has you family past shaped you into the person you are today?<br /><br />With the arrival of the war, describe the negotiations that go on between <br /><br />Jephthah and the elders of Gilead.<br /><br />Why do they so desperately want his help? Why is he so coy in offering his assistance?<br /><br />What does it show us about Jephthah that he is willing to treat with the king of the Ammonites?<br /><br />What is the grievance that the Ammonites have against the Israelites?<br /><br />What does it show us about Jephthah that he is able to repeat in detail the history of the Israelites in answering the challenge of the Ammonites?<br /><br />Why does Jephthah take the extra time explain all of this to the enemy?<br /><br />How could you approve in your ability to present apologetic arguments for your beliefs?<br /><br /> Why does Jephthah make that silly promise to God when God’s Spirit is already upon him?<br /><br />Why does God give the Israelites victory in this battle?<br /><br />Imagine you are Jephthah as he sees his daughter come out of the gates. What emotions are surging in your heart as you realize your error?<br /><br />Why does Jephthah follow through on this awful vow that turned out in a way he clearly did not intend? Why does his daughter go along with this ridiculous promise?<br /><br />Why does she request a long vacation before the sacrifice is carried out?<br /><br />How does this horrible incident affect later Israelite culture?<br /><br />God does not desire child sacrifice, why does he allow Jephthah to do this horrible act?<br /><br /> When are some times when what you have said has gotten you into trouble?<br />How seriously should we take our word? Why is our word not taken more seriously today?<br /><br />How can you become more careful in the things that you promise?<br /><br />What are some (moral) promises that you need to follow through on this week?<br /><br />What are some (immoral) promises that you need to let go, and accept God’s grace?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1577965666688633558?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-70372401126832271662008-11-05T17:46:00.000-08:002008-11-05T17:49:02.631-08:00Judges 4<br /><br />Describe the worst headache you have ever experienced.<br /><br />Compare and contrast the beginning of this passage with the text last week.<br /><br />Why do the Israelites tend to slip into the same unfortunate patterns?<br /><br />Imagine you are a foot soldier taking on a chariot. How would you feel facing that challenge?<br /><br />When are times in your life that you absolutely feel overwhelmed?<br /><br />How should we react as disciples when we face overwhelming situations?<br /><br />Describe the plan that God gives Barak through Deborah for the rescue of the Israelites.<br /><br />Why is Barak willing to trust the plan, but only if Deborah is with him?<br /><br />Why are the soldiers of the tribes of Israel willing to follow such a weak leader?<br /><br />How would you describe the terrain upon which this battle is happening?<br /><br />How might this be beneficial for an infantry as opposed to a cavalry of chariots?<br /><br />Why is it that Israelites experienced such a significant victory on the field of battle?<br /><br />What in the story foreshadows the problems Sisera is going to face in Jael’s tent?<br /><br />Why does Sisera trust the help that Jael offer’s him?<br /><br />What is Jael’s motivation for killing Sisera in such a brutal way?<br /><br />Why are we given such gory details about the violence in this story?<br /><br />Why does she leave the body exactly as it was when she killed him?<br /><br />How would you feel if you were Barak and found that Sisera had been defeated this way?<br /><br />When is a time in your life that you found it difficult to trust in God?<br /><br />Who is someone you find easier to trust than God in your life?<br /><br />Why is it so much easier to trust our friends than it is to trust God?<br /><br />How do we know that God is ultimately worthy of our trust?<br /><br />How can you deepen your level of trust in God?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7037240112683227166?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-40856324968287856202008-10-28T15:56:00.000-07:002008-10-28T15:58:49.007-07:00Judges 3: 12 – 30<br /><br /> Try to write “freedom through the outhouse” with the hand you usually don’t use to write.<br /><br />In verse 14 it describes a long occupation the Israelites faced. If you were one of the Israelites how would you be feeling towards the end of such a harrowing experience?<br /><br />Why does God allow his people to go through such difficult times?<br /><br />What are some ways that God may be trying to discipline you in your life?<br /><br />How can you tell if a difficult time is a time of discipline or just the evil of a fallen world?<br /><br />How do the Israelites respond to such discipline in their lives?<br /><br />Why does it take them so long to cry out to God for assistance?<br /><br />How does God respond to the pleas of his people for deliverance?<br /><br />Spend a couple of minutes crying out to God in prayer for the difficulties in your life.<br /><br /> Describe the Israelite Special Forces team assigned the task of eliminating their captors.<br />Why does God use such a quirky and mundane plan to accomplish his purposes?<br /><br />What are some unusual skills that you have that may have a greater Kingdom purpose than you have previously imagined?<br /><br />How does a person go about surrendering their talents to be used by God?<br /><br /> Describe the appearance of Eglon (fatso) the king of Moab.<br /><br />What might this king be doing sitting in an upper room of his palace?<br /><br />Describe the tactical accomplishment of this operation.<br /><br />Why does the text give us such graphic detail of the actual assassination?<br /><br />What are some humorous elements of this disturbing little story?<br /><br />Why does Ehud go through all the intrigue of killing the king of Moab before leading an army to fight them?<br /><br />What are the socio-political results of this revolution?<br /><br /> How have you seen God use the circumstances of your life to accomplish his own ends?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4085632496828785620?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-15695425742272547502008-10-14T16:17:00.000-07:002008-10-14T16:25:15.980-07:00Numbers 16<br /><br /> When is a time in your life that you got busted for something one of your friends did?<br />How would you describe the group of people who opposing Moses?<br />Restate their argument in your own words. Why are they so upset at Moses?<br /><br />Describe Moses’ counter arguments to these groups.<br />What are Moses’ motives for being so melodramatic?<br />When is as time that you have resisted rightful authority in your life?<br />Why do we tend to be so distrustful of authority in our culture?<br />When is the appropriate time as a disciple to follow authority?<br />How can we become more open to the authentic authorities in our lives?<br /><br />Describe the elaborate test that Moses sets up to establish who should have authority.<br />Why does God go along with this ritualistic test with such a brutal outcome?<br />How would you describe God’s general attitude in this passage?<br />Why is God so concerned about this threat to Moses’ authority?<br /><br />Why does God have them recycle the metal from the ritual censers in verses 37 – 39?<br />In verses 41 – 42 the Israelite assembly reacts to this test. Why does God react to this assembly in a way that seems so rash?<br />What does this show us about popular opinion’s impact on our lives?<br />How easy is it for your friends to sway you from what you know is the right thing to do?<br />Why is it that we tend to pay so much attention to what “everyone” says about things?<br />When is a time recently that your peers have had a negative effect on your life?<br />How does a person combat the effects of peer pressure in their lives?<br /><br />What does it mean to “make atonement” for people in this situation?<br />Describe how the priests go about mediating between God and the assembly.<br />Who is someone in your life for whom you should be interceding more in prayer?<br />How are you going to go about doing that this week?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1569542574227254750?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-84351965386774741582008-10-08T16:44:00.000-07:002008-10-08T16:48:42.369-07:00Exodus 4: 18 – 30<br /><br /> When is a time as a child that you simply did not understand your mother’s actions?<br /><br /> Based on what you see in this text describe Moses’ relationship with his father-in-law.<br /><br /> In verses 18 – 23 how would you describe Moses’ relationship with God?<br /><br />What are the main themes of God’s instructions for Moses?<br /><br /><br />Why is God so concerned about his people receiving freedom through Moses’ action?<br /><br />Why does God so intensely punish Pharaoh for his behavior when He hardened him?<br /><br /><br />What are some ways that you see your inner person hardening against God’s ways?<br /><br />How can a heart be softened once it has begun down that path of hardening?<br /><br /><br /> Why does God seem to change his mind about Moses along the way?<br /><br />What is Moses doing or not doing that has drawn God’s severe disfavor?<br /><br /><br />What are some other times in the Bible that you remember this pattern of God’s behavior?<br />If you were Zipporah at this point what thoughts and attitudes would be racing through your mind? <br /><br /><br />Describe the ritual that Zipporah has to perform on her son and Moses.<br /><br />Why in the world does this action cause God to relent in His violent pursuit of Moses?<br /><br /><br />What are some things you are missing in your life that may make you unready for service?<br /><br /><br />What changes do you need to commit to making in your life this week?<br /><br /><br />Who is someone who could help hold you accountable to that action?<br /><br /> Imagine you are Aaron, how would you be feeling as you hear you will see your brother for the first time in forty years?<br /><br /><br />Why might God send Aaron, Moses’ brother, to meet Moses at this point in the story?<br /><br /><br />What effect would Aaron’s presence have on Moses and his confidence?<br /><br /><br />Who is someone towards whom that God wants you to serve as an encouragement this week?<br /><br />How are you going to actively go about encouraging them?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8435196538677474158?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-71918964717111320142008-09-25T12:48:00.000-07:002008-09-25T12:50:09.002-07:00Genesis 34<br /><br />What is the most painful or serious medical procedure you have experienced?<br /><br />Based on the context of this passage what might be some on going family issues that contribute to this situation that develops?<br />How would you describe Dinah’s relationship with the Caananites? <br />Why might that relationship in this situation be a problem?<br />How would you describe Shechem’s feelings towards Dinah? <br />What are Dinah’s feelings towards Shechem?<br />Based on our evidence was this a rape by modern standards or is it another ancient crime?<br />Why does Jacob wait to inform his sons of the problem? <br /><br />What is the plan that Hamor comes up with to placate Jacob and his family? <br />What might be his real motivations behind this offer? <br />What does this plan tell us about the relations between Jacob’s family and their neighbors? <br />What would make the incredible request of the circumcision of the men of an entire town seem reasonable as a wedding gift?<br />Why do the men of the town go along with Jacob’s son’s request of Hamor and Shechem?<br />Why do Jacob’s sons set this as the “bride price” for their sister? <br /><br />Describe the scene as Jacob’s sons carry out their bloody plot. <br />What is driving these young men to do this to their neighbors?<br />Why does Jacob allow this violent plan to be carried out by his boys?<br />How is it possible that Jacob was surprised by this action of his sons? <br />What seems to be Jacob’s primary concerns in the situation? <br />What does this show us about him? <br /><br />What are some ways that your relationships with non-disciples tempt you into the world’s system?<br />How do we develop healthy relationships with non-disciples that allow for sharing our faith without being submerged in their value system? <br />How does a person go about setting healthy boundaries with their neighbors? <br /><br />What is a dishonor in your life for which you feel the need of revenge? <br />How can we relieve that impulse without resorting to violent attack?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7191896471711132014?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-72994490892954097932008-09-18T14:08:00.001-07:002008-09-18T14:10:44.309-07:00<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJPENNI%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Trebuchet MS"; panose-1:2 11 6 3 2 2 2 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:7 0 0 0 19 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Trebuchet MS"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Genesis 19<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p> </o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is your least favorite aspect of living in the city?<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on the context of this passage what is the relationship between these angels and Abraham who is <st1:place>Lot</st1:place>’s uncle? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you are these angels walking into this city. What would be shocking about this place to ones accustomed to heaven? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are the angels insistent about wanting to stay in the city square? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> that he is so insistent about showing them hospitality?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In what ways can you show hospitality towards strangers while keeping safe boundaries? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you describe the behavior of the men of the city in verses 4 – 11?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about humanity that these men are so vulgar? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it say about <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> that offers his daughters to the awful fate of being raped by the men of this city?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the relationship between <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> and the men of the city. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why do the angels allow <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> to go through this when they in the end escape miraculously? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How are you a positive influence in your neighborhood? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can you do to build a better relationship with your neighbors? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the dialogue between <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> and the angels in verses 12 – 22. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are the angels so frantic in their warnings to <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> and his family? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> taking the time to negotiate a different destination? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What varieties of words are used in this passage to communicate the pending doom? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it that God is going to destroy these particular cities? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some warnings that God may be trying to communicate to you?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we become more open to obeying God’s direction in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the destruction of these two cities. Why are their consequences so violent?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it say about <st1:place>Lot</st1:place>’s wife’s heart that she looked back to the cities? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God decide to spare <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> and his daughters from the disaster?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Who is someone close to you that you need to be interceding for their protection? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the plan that <st1:place>Lot</st1:place>’s daughters come up with to ensure a continuing of <st1:place>Lot</st1:place>’s line.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are the many things about this plan that are ridiculously evil? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> that they are able to carry out this terrible plot? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we learn to be more patient in seeing God’s plan and purposes accomplished? </p> <div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7299449089295409793?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-85411114810563840792008-09-11T07:27:00.000-07:002008-09-11T07:32:20.842-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/SMkrOC0_rRI/AAAAAAAAACM/M7faQTDnth4/s1600-h/composite.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/SMkrOC0_rRI/AAAAAAAAACM/M7faQTDnth4/s200/composite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244770761326963986" border="0" /></a><br />This was the introductory message to this new Chronic Conflict series.<br />The text for this message is Psalm 111 - 112.<br />Remember to hear an MP3 of the message simply click on the above title.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8541111481056384079?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-22674916598660266452008-09-10T12:09:00.000-07:002008-09-10T13:12:10.418-07:00<i style="">Genesis 4<o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe the worst argument you have ever had with a sibling or close friend.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><o:p> </o:p></b><br />Compare and contrast Abel’s career with Cain’s. How might their lifestyles be different?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is it about animals that make them a preferred gift to give to God?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God value that kind of gift over other potential gifts? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What kinds of gifts does God desire of us as Jesus followers? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can you intentionally give God what he wants from you this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Read verses 4 – 7 of this passage again.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How could Cain go about giving animals to God without changing his career?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What attitudes may have been in Cain’s heart prior to even giving this gift?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What would be the attitudes brewing in Cain’s heart after his gift was rejected?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the warning that God gives to Cain. Why is He so intense with him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How did Cain’s conversation with God at this point alter his emotional outlook? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why did God’s warning have such little effect upon Cain? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some attitudes that you are harboring that may lead to actual poor decisions?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do we go about transforming our internal attitudes when they are rotten? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that sin might be stalking you in your life? How can you get freedom?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pretend you are a pre-historic CSI agent. How would you reconstruct the crime scene?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Cain resort to such a terrible action towards his brother? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe God’s confrontation of Cain after his homicidal plot is hatched. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about our relationship with God that he requires an answer from Cain?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In what ways is God’s punishment of Cain incredibly appropriate to the crime? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does God demonstrate mercy to Cain even in this punishment? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Spend some time crying out to God for mercy for the negative choices you have made. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What have been some ways you have seen God’s mercy in your life time?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In verses 17 and forward we have the account of the results on Cain’s family. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does Cain’s miserable choice impact those who come after him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast Lamach and Cain and their reactions to possible violence? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you describe what is happening spiritually over the generations? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What needs to change in your life to avoid damaging your family spiritually?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What level of control does fear hold in your life? How does a person overcome it?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it necessary for the narrator to let us know of the birth of another brother?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you describe Eve’s reaction to this new baby? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What effect is the presence of sin having upon the family unit?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does the narrator tell us of people beginning to communicate with Yahweh? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What steps do you need to take to improve your communication with God? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2267491659866026645?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-16878735343848903002008-07-21T12:51:00.000-07:002008-07-21T12:53:47.243-07:00<span style="font-style: italic;">Mark 8: 1 - 21</span><b style=""><o:p> [Click on the Article Title for MPEG of Message]</o:p></b> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe in detail the best leftovers you have ever eaten out of a doggie bag from your favorite restaurant.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast the beginning of this story with the beginning of the story last week. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it that Jesus is preemptively bringing this situation up to his disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is it that Jesus and his posse got themselves into this situation for a second time?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How in the world is it possible that the disciples are so dense as to not understand what to do this time?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is similar and what is different between the miraculous action last week and this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the significance of seven basketfuls being the amount of leftovers? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus repeat a miracle of this magnitude so soon after the previous one?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do we know that this is not just a mistaken repetition of the previously reported miracle? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on the immediate context of this passage, what seems to be the primary concerns of the disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are the disciples having such a difficult time learning this particular lesson?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some spiritual lessons that took you longer to learn than you wish they did? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is something that Jesus is repeatedly trying to teach you this year? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can we do to become more open to what Jesus is trying to teach us so he doesn’t have to repeat himself as often?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How has God provided for your physical needs over this past year? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we learn to trust him more for our provision in the year to come? <span style=""> </span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1687873534384890300?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-15801589598145777392008-07-16T11:50:00.000-07:002008-07-16T11:52:20.160-07:00<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i style="">Mark 6:35 -44</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>When is a time that you had to host a crowd for a meal that was far larger than what you were prepared for? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus keep this large crowd around until such a late hour in such a remote place?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you were one of the people in this crowd. As the hour draws late how are you feeling? What are you thinking about? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast Jesus’ plan for dealing with the situation with the one that his disciples had come up with.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Which plan makes more rational sense in dealing with the situation?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is Jesus insisting upon doing things in such an irrational sort of way?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why did the disciples bring the sardines back as well when Jesus just asked for a bread inventory? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you are one of these disciples as you are preparing for feeding time. What is going through your mind as you usher the people into their seats? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus have people sit down in groups of 50 or 100? Why is that detail included in the story?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">When do you think the disciples actually noticed a miracle was occurring? Did the crowd ever know this was miraculous? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus pray a pray of thanksgiving for the bread before distributing it? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about Jesus that he is able to feed 15,000+ with so few resources? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it significant that there were 12 basketfuls of leftovers? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the relationship between Jesus and his disciples in this passage. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is something that God is calling you to do tonight that is significantly beyond the scope of your resources?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What steps can you take to demonstrate that you are actually choosing to trust him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some amazing ways that God has provided for you in your life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can you do<span style=""> </span>to express thanksgiving to him this week?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1580158959814577739?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-263595474224376202008-07-09T16:42:00.000-07:002008-07-09T16:44:23.998-07:00<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i style="">Mark 6:35 -44</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When is a time that you had to host a crowd for a meal that was far larger than what you were prepared for? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus keep this large crowd around until such a late hour in such a remote place?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you were one of the people in this crowd. As the hour draws late how are you feeling? What are you thinking about? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast Jesus’ plan for dealing with the situation with the one that his disciples had come up with.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Which plan makes more rational sense in dealing with the situation?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is Jesus insisting upon doing things in such an irrational sort of way?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why did the disciples bring the sardines back as well when Jesus just asked for a bread inventory? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you are one of these disciples as you are preparing for feeding time. What is going through your mind as you usher the people into their seats? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus have people sit down in groups of 50 or 100? Why is that detail included in the story?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">When do you think the disciples actually noticed a miracle was occurring? Did the crowd ever know this was miraculous? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus pray a pray of thanksgiving for the bread before distributing it? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about Jesus that he is able to feed 15,000+ with so few resources? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it significant that there were 12 basketfuls of leftovers? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the relationship between Jesus and his disciples in this passage. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is something that God is calling you to do tonight that is significantly beyond the scope of your resources?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What steps can you take to demonstrate that you are actually choosing to trust him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some amazing ways that God has provided for you in your life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can you do<span style=""> </span>to express thanksgiving to him this week?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-26359547422437620?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-87822188394540519452008-06-30T15:39:00.000-07:002008-06-30T15:40:29.938-07:00<i style="">Luke 8: 22 – 25</i><br /><br />Describe the most frightening storm you have experienced while traveling. <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Based on the context of this passage, why are they heading across the lake at this point?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Imagine you are actually one of the disciples in the boat when the sea storm overtakes them. What do you see? What do you smell, what does your skin feel, what do you hear, what do you taste? What emotions are racing through your mind at this point? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What clues do we have in this story to understand exactly how difficult this particular storm actually was? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Precisely describe Jesus’ activities and demeanor as the storm is raging about the boat. Why in the world is he sleeping so comfortably as their world is falling apart? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it tell us about the disciples that they frantically wake Jesus in the middle of the storm? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What would you have said to Jesus at this point if you were trying to wake him up? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What would have happened to them if they had simply allowed Jesus to continue sleeping? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">When is the last time you found yourself in a situation that was out of your control and Jesus seemed to be asleep?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the appropriate way for a disciple to respond in such a challenging situation?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What would be the overall atmosphere on the boat after the sky’s clear at Jesus’ command? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus reprimand them about their lack of faith in such an obviously challenging situation?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we go about building the kind of faith that Jesus expects out of his disciples in this story? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it demonstrate about Jesus that he can speak and the sea calms down? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does this miracle produce such a deep emotive response from the disciples? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can you do to help your friends answer their questions about who Jesus really is? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8782218839454051945?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-16800069658983119062008-06-18T16:22:00.000-07:002008-06-18T16:26:29.719-07:00<p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%209:%2014%20-%2029&amp;version=31">Mark 9: 14 - 29</a><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">When is a time that you really wish you could have assisted someone in distress but did not have the means or ability to do so?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">If you were the father of this young boy, what emotions would be dominating your thoughts as you bring him to Jesus?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Describe the presenting symptoms of this spiritual malady.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">In verse 19 Jesus is obviously annoyed. What is it about the disciples’ inability to help this boy that so deeply frustrates him?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Why does he heal the boy even though he is annoyed at the situation?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What does it tell us about spiritual reality that being in Jesus’ presence triggers another episode?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Imagine you are part of this boy’s family. What impact would his spiritual sickness be having on you?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What is the goal or purpose of this spirit in the life of this boy?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What is a spiritual issue in your life that is making life difficult on those around you?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Jesus corrects the father’s misguided understanding of his abilities in verse 23. Meditate on Jesus’ answer to the father for 5 minutes.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Why does Jesus consider it important enough to delay his work of power to make sure this guy understands?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What does the father’s response to Jesus reveal about his spiritual state and openness?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What might explain the father’s weakened level of faith in this text?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">When is a time in your spiritual walk that you have had the desire to trust Jesus but have had difficulty doing so?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Spend some time praying the father’s request to Jesus concerning your own areas of unbelief.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What can we do to effectively help those who are facing spiritual bondage?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What does it mean to “rebuke” a spirit, and why does Jesus do that in this situation?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Describe Jesus’ method of exorcism with this boy.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What are spiritual difficulties that tend to be frustratingly reoccurring in your life?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">How can we get victory over those kinds of spiritual strongholds?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Why do the disciples wait until later to ask Jesus about their failure?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What can we surmise about spiritual struggle from Jesus’ answer to them?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Why is prayer so pivotal in gaining spiritual freedom?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">How did the disciples end up “praying” in this passage?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">How prepared are you through prayer for the spiritual challenges you face in serving others?</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 23px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:14px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What can you do this week to more seriously and intentionally improve your prayer life?</span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1680006965898311906?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-45065160335088655822008-06-11T13:36:00.000-07:002008-06-11T13:59:55.263-07:00<a href="http://c3sermonarchive1.pbwiki.com/f/C30608Newsletter.pdf">Click to read a PDF of June 2008 C3 Newsletter</a><br /><a href="http://c3sermonarchive1.pbwiki.com/f/C30408Newsletter.pdf"><br />Click to read a PDF of the April 2008 C3 Newsletter</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4506516033508865582?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-91840649259457968692008-06-11T13:13:00.001-07:002008-06-11T13:16:12.443-07:00<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 18.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Matthew 12: 22 - 37</span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Describe an experience at a sporting event where you inadvertently cheered for the wrong team.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Imagine you are the people bringing this seriously incapacitated man to Jesus.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What would you be thinking and feeling as you approached Jesus?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What is it about this specific healing event that made people wonder whether Jesus was the anointed?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">How have you seen Jesus move and work in power over the past twelve months?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What is it that Jesus did in your life or the lives of those around you that made you consider following him?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Why in the world do the religious leaders suspect witchcraft as the source of Jesus’ power?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In verses 25 – 30 Jesus gives a very rich, yet complex argument against him tapping an evil power source.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What does this argument teach us about the realities of the spiritual realms?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Why does Jesus mention their people who are practicing exorcism?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What is the relationship between the Spirit of God and the kingdom of God?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In what way does victory over spiritual darkness herald the arrival of God’s reign?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What are some ways that we, as Jesus’ followers, can be involved in defeating spiritual evil?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Why does Jesus bring up the topic of blaspheming the Spirit at this point in the conversation?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What does it mean to actually speak against the Holy Spirit?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Why does Jesus consider misunderstanding his actual source of power to be such a serious offense?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In what way would such an action be impossible for which to receive forgiveness?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">How have the religious leaders come dangerously close to this action in this very debate?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">How can you be sure that you have not committed the unforgivable sin?Why does God take so seriously what we say with our mouths?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What is the relationship between what we speak verbally (or write) and what exists in our inner person?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Why are the words we speak such a powerful barometers of our spiritual status?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">When are times in your life that you tend to speak “careless words” to other people?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What needs to change in the way that you speak to others in your family, at work, among friends?</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 26.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What needs to change in your heart tonight? Are you willing to take that before Jesus?</span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-9184064925945796869?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>ptonyrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09211775486723696561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-11081648018429844232008-05-14T15:14:00.000-07:002008-05-14T15:26:24.531-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204:%2046%20-%2054&amp;version=31http://"><i style="">John 4: 46 – 54</i></a><o:p><br /> </o:p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Why is your favorite billboard you have ever seen your favorite billboard?</p><o:p> </o:p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Why does John mention that Jesus was back in the town of Cana?</p>What is ironic about one of Herod’s officials going to Jesus for help?<br />How would you describe the attitude of this official who is asking for help for his son?<br />Why does Jesus respond so curtly to this man when he is first asked for help?<br />Why does Jesus heal this officials son immediately from a distance rather than going and visiting him?<br />How would you have felt if you were the official as Jesus sent you away?<br /><br />What does the fact that the father further interrogates his employees about the timing of his child’s healing show us about the level of the guy’s faith?<br />Why do this official and his family not believe until they receive the evidence of a sign?\<br />What makes “signs” a unique category of miracles?<br />When are some seasons in your life that you demanded a sign from God before you would trust him?<br />What are some signs that God has given you that have helped to encourage your faith?<br />Why is relying on signs a bad idea in developing a life of faith?<br />How does a person learn to trust God without having to rely upon signs?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1108164801842984423?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-27441828588616111152008-05-07T13:01:00.000-07:002008-05-07T13:34:03.504-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022&amp;version=31">Luke 22: 47 – 53</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal">If you had to pick a favorite kind of weapon what would it be and why?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Take a look at the context of the passage, why are some of the disciples armed at this point?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on the passage, why is this disciple assault the servant of the high priest with a deadly weapon? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some clues in this passage that it is based upon eyewitness testimony? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus immediately heal the servant who had his ear cut off?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is Jesus’ healing of this guy similar to and different than his other healing experiences? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you feel if you were Jesus at this moment? How would you feel as one of his disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are the elders and chief priests doing with the soldiers out on this dark night?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are they arresting Jesus with the aggressive use of secretive force when he was still appearing often in public?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some different kinds of darkness present that Jesus says are in control of that moment of time?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is Jesus able, in such a healthy way, to cope with the horrible fate that awaits him? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When are times that you have tried to force God’s Kingdom purpose by your own efforts? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What tends to spark in you a tendency towards violence? <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is Jesus’ definition of the Kingdom of God different than the definition his disciples use? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is Jesus’ definition of the Kingdom of God different that the definition the religious leaders use? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is Jesus’ definition of the Kingdom of God different than the definition that you use? </p> <span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:&quot;;font-size:11;" >How can we transform our perspective of the Kingdom to better match Jesus?</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2744182858861611115?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-81409551530910192852008-05-03T14:23:00.000-07:002008-05-03T14:39:43.584-07:00<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017:11-19&amp;version=31">Luke 17: 11 – 19</a><o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the most meaningful thank-you note you have sent or received? </p>Why do the authors of the gospels often go to great lengths to describe where Jesus is located geographically? <p class="MsoNormal">How would you imagine the relationships between the lepers being, inside of their little colony?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why do these guys cry out so intensely to Jesus for assistance as he passes by? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Why does Jesus send them towards priests as a condition of their healing?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe what the Samaritan does to express his thankfulness to Jesus for being cleansed.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is Jesus so surprised about this guy’s returning to say thanks? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why might only the Samaritan return to thank Jesus for the healing?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does this demonstrate about the spiritual openness of Jesus’ own generation in Israel?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it that those who are marginalized tend to be more open spiritually? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is something for which you have forgotten to praise God in your life? <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How are you going to express thanksgiving to Jesus for this work in your life this week?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Spend time actually writing thank you notes to Jesus for what he has done. </p> <span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: &quot;Calibri&quot;,&quot;sans-serif&quot;;">Take a few minutes to meditate on the phrase “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8140955153091019285?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-86796341376410040662008-04-23T15:23:00.000-07:002008-04-23T15:27:46.491-07:00<div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"><a href="ttp://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2014:%201%20-%206&amp;version=31"><i>Luke 14: 1 – 6</i></a></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What is the most glamorous or prestigious party to which you have been invited?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Imagine you were also invited over to this meal. Describe the entire setting. What do you see, hear, smell, taste, feel?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why does a VIP religious leader invite Jesus over to his house for table fellowship? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why does Jesus accept this obvious invitation to a trap?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What do you do to be open to relationships even with those who seem hardened in tradition?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Dropsy was an inflammation of the tissues of the body based on a deeper internal medical condition. How would it feel to be in need of bypass surgery in a culture without modern medicine? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why might this man be conveniently positioned before Jesus on a Sabbath? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why does Jesus inquire of the religious leaders as to what their opinion is in the situation?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why does Jesus step right into their trap and heal the guy in front of them on the Sabbath? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How would you describe the explanation that Jesus gives to the religious leaders? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why do the religious leaders remain silent throughout the text? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">When have been sometimes you have cared more about having things your own way than helping other people?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What are some super-biblical traditions that you tend to hold to more tightly than the biblical injunction to love?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How should we best challenge those who are caught up in traditionalism and legalism? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How can we sweep false perspectives out of our minds, hearts and lives?<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8679634137641004066?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-11650613134003005942008-04-17T12:42:00.000-07:002008-04-17T12:43:37.597-07:00<div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2013:%2010%20-%2017&amp;version=31"><i>Luke 13: 10 – 17</i></a></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Describe what you do on a standard day off or holiday.</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What does it show us about Jesus that he was in the synagogue teaching on the Sabbath? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What was the root cause of this woman’s physical problems? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">If you are the woman in the synagogue that morning, what might be occupying your prayers?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why does Jesus take the initiative to heal her right in the middle of one of his sermons? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What is a worldly difficulty that you are facing which may have roots in a spiritual stronghold?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How does a person go about gaining victory and freedom from a spiritual stronghold? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Describe the religious leader’s reaction to Jesus healing of the woman on the Sabbath.</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why might the leader of the worship center through such a fit concerning Jesus’ healing on the holy day?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What are some traditional perspectives you cling to in your life that are counter the Kingdom’s vision?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How do we go about changing these perspectives in our lives?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How does Jesus go about challenging the religious leader’s perspective? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How would you describe Jesus attitude in his response? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Trace Jesus’ logic as to why it is acceptable to heal this woman on the Sabbath. What makes his argument so persuasive?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">Why is Jesus so blunt and harsh in how he responds to this religious leader?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How should we challenge those whose tradition hampers their impact for the Kingdom? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">How can you tell when a tradition is one that needs to be challenged or should be respected?</div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">What does the fact that the leaders were humiliated and the people were delighted tell us about their community? </div><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; min-height: 14px;"><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1165061313400300594?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-67403754237952863442008-04-10T12:12:00.000-07:002008-04-10T12:16:29.819-07:00<b style=""><o:p></o:p></b> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%208:22-26&amp;version=31"><i style="">Mark 8:22 – 26</i></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Show a picture of a highly magnified object. Have people guess what it is. Zoom out some and ask them to guess again. After revealing the image ask what made them think the image was whatever else they had guessed. (Repeat)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is Jesus’ popularity so far reaching that the people know to bring the blind man to Jesus? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus lead the guy out of the village to experience healing?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast Jesus healing action in this passage with others he has used in previous passages.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus use these various approaches in healing his patients? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">When you think of the people you serve in life, what are some less obvious needs you could help to meet? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How are you going to go about meeting those needs this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is a deep, non-obvious need that you have in your life which you need Jesus to meet tonight? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you have felt as the blind man after Jesus’ first attempt at this miracle? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does it take a second attempt for this man to experience complete healing?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare this passage with the immediate context. How is this man’s experience similar to others? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">When has been a time you have only received what seemed to be half of an answer to prayer?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that your discipleship and understanding are severely limited? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What needs to change in your life and outlook to experience all that Jesus desires to do in your life? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6740375423795286344?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-43298834834425113722008-04-01T08:59:00.000-07:002008-04-01T09:02:32.418-07:00<a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%207:31-37&amp;version=31"><i style="">Mark 7: 31 – 37</i></a> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><o:p></o:p><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">What is the most unusual medical procedure you have ever heard of or experienced?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe Jesus’ travel itinerary. Why would Jesus be spending so much time in predominantly Gentile areas?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""></span>What are some parts of the neighborhood or city that people often avoid? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can you effectively minister in those places while maintaining safe and healthy boundaries?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why might this crowd decide to escort this guy to Jesus for help? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What challenges would a man in this condition face in the culture of the ancient world? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you describe the process that Jesus uses to heal this man from his condition?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">If you were this guy, how would you be feeling about Jesus giving you a wet-willie? Why does Jesus heal him like this?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What can you do to make your service towards others more relational and personal?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would this guys’ life change based on the healing that Jesus brings him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Mark go into such great detail describing the miracle and the reaction to the miracle? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the general public reaction to Jesus’ miraculous act?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus insist that the crowd not inform the media about the miracle? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why do they keep proclaiming this publicly in spite of the warning? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why do we tend to keep what Jesus has done for us quiet even though we have been commanded to speak?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What has Jesus done in your life lately that should be broadcast? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What will you do this week to announce what Jesus has done for you?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does Jesus’ accomplishment of this miracle show us about his character? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4329883483442511372?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-88024904913780312372008-03-27T09:47:00.000-07:002008-03-27T09:51:48.781-07:00<b style=""><o:p></o:p></b> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2011:%201%20-%2044&amp;version=31">John 11: 1 – 44</a><o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What is absolutely the worst smell that you have ever experienced?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe the relationship that Jesus has with this family from <st1:city><st1:place>Bethany</st1:place></st1:City>?<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why is Jesus so close to them? How can we have this kind of intimacy with Jesus?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What are the disciples’ concerns about their party headed back to <st1:place>Judea</st1:place>? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How does Jesus answer his disciple’s concerns? What does this attitude tell us about Jesus?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why exactly does Jesus not go back and help out as soon as he is asked to by the family? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>When are some times you have seen Jesus wait in his response to a pending issue in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How would you describe the behavior of the disciples in this passage? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How can we make sure we are not as dense as they are in situations like this?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>If you were Martha and Mary, what feelings would you be struggling with at this point?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Martha run out to Jesus while Mary remains at home? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How does Jesus interact with Martha when she comes out to have her say?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus use this opportunity to start instructing Martha on the finer points of Christology? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus stay in the same place that Martha leaves him when she goes to get Mary?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Martha tell Mary Jesus had called for her?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How would you rate the performance of the professional mourners in this story? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How would you describe Jesus’ interaction with Mary when she comes to meet him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does this scenario move Jesus deeply enough that he begins to weep himself? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How does a person answer the question the Jews raise in verse 36? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What is the practical importance of the theology Jesus was teaching Martha earlier?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Picture yourself there at the moment the stone is being rolled back. What do you see, smell, hear, feel? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus pray this prayer to his Father at this crucial moment?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How would have you responded seeing Lazarus come out of the tomb like a mummy?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Based on what Jesus teaches them in this passage, how should we view funerals differently as disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How could this passage be used to encourage someone who has experienced loss? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What should not be extrapolated from this passage and communicated to someone mourning? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8802490491378031237?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-67232013979149469812008-03-19T11:53:00.000-07:002008-03-19T11:57:40.824-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%207:%2011%20-%2015;&amp;version=31;">Luke 7: 11 – 15</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What is the least appropriate thing you have ever heard at a funeral?<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why might Luke make such a point of describing exactly where this event took place?<br /><o:p></o:p>What might Jesus have been thinking about as he saw this woman walking by with her son?<br /><o:p></o:p>How can we develop the kind of compassion in our lives that Jesus has?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What would you say differently in this situation to be compassionate and understanding?<br /><o:p></o:p>Describe the process Jesus goes through in bringing this guy back to life.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Imagine you are one of the pall-bearers carrying this guy towards his tomb. What are you thinking when Jesus stops your procession by touching the coffin?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus decide to resuscitate this particular guy? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How would you be feeling as a pall-bearer after Jesus had brought this guy back to life?<br /><o:p></o:p>What evidence does Luke provide that the guy actually came back to life?<br /><o:p></o:p>What are some other biblical stories that this passage seems to parallel?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What does it show us about Jesus that he is actually able to accomplish this feat?<br /><o:p></o:p>What is a situation that someone around you is facing that seems absolutely impossible?<br /><o:p></o:p>How can we actually bring them into Jesus presence to experience the help only he can give?<br /><o:p></o:p>What is a situation in your life that seems to be entirely past hope?<br /><o:p></o:p>How would you respond differently to that situation if you could know certainly that Jesus was present with you?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6723201397914946981?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-40683685957793267582008-03-19T11:51:00.000-07:002008-03-19T11:53:16.853-07:00<i style="">Mark 5: 22 – 24, 35 – 42<o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>When have you been most frantic to find help for a loved one? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe the feelings this synagogue rule must be experiencing to actually seek help from Jesus.<br /><o:p></o:p>Why do you think that he goes to Jesus for help in this situation?<br /><o:p></o:p>What is a situation in your life that desperately needs to be brought before Jesus tonight?<br /><o:p></o:p>What does it say about Jesus’ confidence that he stops on the way to the house to help someone else?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why is Jesus so confident in his ability to take care of this situation?<br /><o:p></o:p>How can we gain this kind of holy confidence in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe the shift in emotions when the announcement comes from the house that the girl is dead.<br /><o:p></o:p>How would you describe Jesus’ actions in the second half of this story?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus only allow three disciples and the mother and father in with him as witnesses?<br /><o:p></o:p>What can you do to build the kind of relationship with Jesus that lets you see his wonders?<o:p><br /></o:p>How would Jesus feel when the crowd at the house laughs at him for his misdiagnoses? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why are they so harsh in the way that they treat Jesus in this setting?<br /><o:p></o:p>Compare and contrast Jesus’ actions in the room with those of a paramedic.<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does Mark record the actual words in Aramaic of what Jesus says in this setting?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does he make a point of telling us the age of the little girl?<br /><o:p></o:p>What does it tell us about Jesus that he is able to bring this little girl back to life?<o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4068368595779326758?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-76137149477347489992008-03-19T11:49:00.000-07:002008-03-19T11:50:52.772-07:00<i style="">Matthew 1: 18 – 25<o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p> </o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever had to tell someone you were dating?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Betrothal in the ancient world was much more serious than our modern “engagement,” none the less, imagine you were Joseph and heard this news about your fiancé. How would you be feeling?<br /><o:p></o:p>What do Joseph’s initial actions tell us about what kind of person he is?<br />How does Joseph in this passage exhibit the ideal of what it means to be a disciple?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What needs to change in your life to better match Joseph’s example of integrity?<br /><o:p></o:p>What do we learn about who Jesus is from the message of the angel to Joseph?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does the angel mention how Jesus’ birth fulfills Scriptural prophecy? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it necessary for an angelic announcement in order for Joseph to do what is right?<br /><o:p></o:p>What does God have to do in your life in order to get your attention?<br /><o:p></o:p>How can you become more open to the things that God is trying to communicate with you?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does the Joseph decide to obey what the angel tells him to do?<br /><o:p></o:p>What kind of pressure might this situation have put on their relationship?<br /><o:p></o:p>What do you figure would be the likelihood this pregnancy would be brought to term in our world?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Trace the emotions Mary would have gone through in this entire process.<br /><o:p></o:p>Why does God select such a fragile situation for his Son to be brought into the world?<br /><o:p></o:p>Why might it be important that Jesus was legally recognized as the son of Joseph?<br /><o:p></o:p>How have you seen God use strange situations in your life to accomplish his purposes?<br /><o:p></o:p>How do we make sure that when we know God is speaking to us that we are obedient to his will? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7613714947734748999?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-48438246629466313982008-03-19T11:40:00.000-07:002008-03-19T11:44:52.257-07:00<i style=""><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%205:%2024%20-%2029&amp;version=31">Mark 5: 24 – 29</a><o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">What is the most frustrating experience you have ever had with a medical professional?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;"><o:p></o:p>This story is couched inside another miracle story, what does this show us about the nature of Jesus’ healing ministry? <o:p></o:p><br />Describe the condition with which this woman has dealt. <o:p></o:p><br />What are some of the effects this sickness has had on her life? <o:p></o:p><br />How would this woman with her particular condition have felt in a large crowd of people? <o:p></o:p><br />What were her emotional status have been by the time she pursued healing? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">Why does she seek out secret healing from Jesus rather than crying out for help?<o:p></o:p><br />What does it show us about her perspective on Jesus that she believes his cloak can help her condition?<o:p></o:p><br />Why is the touching of Jesus cloak effective in actually healing her? <o:p></o:p><br />Why does Jesus choose to stop and find out whom was healed by his power? <o:p></o:p><br />What does it say about the disciples’ perspective on Jesus that they don’t understand his question? <o:p></o:p><br />Why is the woman afraid when she describes what had happened to her? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">Why does Jesus not reverse this healing once he discovers the truth of her superstitious use of his cloak? <o:p></o:p><br />How have you experienced Jesus’ compassion and mercy in your life? <o:p></o:p><br />What is an area in which you need to experience the peace that only Jesus offers? <o:p></o:p><br />How are you going to go about reaching out for Jesus’ power in your life this week? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">How can you make sure in the midst of a busy life you have time to stop and help others? <o:p></o:p><br />Who is someone who needs your help who you need to give more attention to this week? <o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4843824662946631398?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-34549440797063463532008-02-20T12:06:00.000-08:002008-02-27T12:18:21.311-08:00<i style=""><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" ><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2010:%2046%20-%2052&amp;version=31">Mark 10: 46 – 52</a><o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Why might Bartimaeus have selected this particular road by which to beg for alms?<br />How would it feel to be a blind person sitting by a road with a large crowd passing by?<br />Why does Jesus select this particular time in his ministry to heal another blind man?<br />Why might Mark mention the name of this particular blind beggar?<br />What are some ways that you still deal with blindness in your spiritual walk?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Compare Bartimaeus’ cry for help with other pleas we have heard so far.<br />What does this pattern tell us about who is open to receive the healing Jesus offers?<br />How does your attitude in your prayer life need to change based on these examples?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Describe the attitude the crowd portrays to the blind man when Jesus calls for him.<br />What does his throwing aside of his cloak show us about his attitude in seeking help?<br />What things in your life tend to hinder you from receiving Jesus healing power?<br />How can we better adjust our priorities in our lives to make us open to what ever Jesus wants to do with us?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Why does Jesus ask the man what he wants Jesus to do for him?<br />What does it show us about Jesus that he is able and willing to heal this man?<br />How is faith helpful in receiving healing power?<br />Why does this guy begin to follow Jesus down the road after he is healed?<br />What should our response be when we experience healing in our lives?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >What are some different kinds of healing you need to experience tonight?<br />How should we respond the times that we do not receive the healing for which we are faithfully asking?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <span style=";font-family:&quot;;font-size:12;" ><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-3454944079706346353?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-4218502869543200912008-02-13T10:45:00.000-08:002008-02-27T12:12:11.864-08:00<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=""></span></b><i style=""><span style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2015:21%20-%2028&amp;version=31">Matthew 15: 21 – 28</a><o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>What is a city or region through which you simply loathe traveling? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>Why might Jesus be traveling outside of </span><st1:country-region><st1:place><span style="">Israel</span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span style=""> into the Gentile region of these two cities?<o:p></o:p><br />How would Jesus’ disciples be feeling traveling outside of their normal homeland?<o:p></o:p><br />Where do you go to retreat from the grinding stress of daily life?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>Why does Matthew make a point of this woman being ethnically Canaanite? <o:p></o:p><br />Imagine you are this woman approaching Jesus for help, what emotions are you experiencing as you arrive? <o:p></o:p><br />What might it say about the social environment that the child has serious spiritual issues? <o:p></o:p><br />Compare and contrast this woman’s initial pleas for help with others we have heard.<o:p></o:p><br />What do these pleas show us about her understand of whom Jesus really is? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>Why does Jesus not answer her at all when she first asks for help? <o:p></o:p><br />How would you describe the disciples’ response towards her cries?<o:p></o:p><br />Why are they so cold and harsh towards her in her need?<o:p></o:p><br />Who are people you tend to treat in a cold and harsh way? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>What is Jesus’ reasoning for not immediately helping her in her situation? <o:p></o:p><br />How does Jesus’ argument make an effective justification for his actions? <o:p></o:p><br />What does her argument show us about her attitude and spirituality? <o:p></o:p><br />Why does Jesus eventually relent and help her situation?<o:p></o:p><br />What does it show us about Jesus that he can have spiritual victory over distance? <o:p></o:p><br />How does faith allow for spiritual victory for our families? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What kinds of spiritual victory do you need in your life and family tonight?</span><br /><span style="">How can you go about crying out to Jesus this week for the help only he can give?</span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-421850286954320091?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-56424125215720480382008-02-06T16:44:00.000-08:002008-02-13T14:38:31.141-08:00<i style=""><span style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%206:%206%20-%2011&amp;version=31">Luke 6: 6 – 11</a><o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p></o:p>[Click on title to hear Sunday's Message on this Text]<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Describe the time when you experienced the most pain in your hand.<br />What does a standard Saturday look like for you in your life and schedule?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What is Luke’s point in the passages he selects as the immediate context?<br />What does it tell us about Jesus that he is in a synagogue teaching on a Sabbath?<br />Do you think this man came to synagogue that Saturday expecting to be healed?<br />What is something for which you need to hear a word from Jesus tonight?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Describe the attitude and actions of the religious leaders in this passage.<br />Why are they spending so much time lurking around to see if Jesus breaks the rules?<br />What are some ways you have treated others like they treated Jesus in your life?<br />How can we go about being less judgmental in the way we treat others?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What process does Jesus use to heal this guy from his hand problem?<br />Why does Jesus make sure this healing is made front and center before the crowd?<br />How would you describe Jesus’ preemptive questions to the religious leaders?<br />Compare and contrast Jesus’ principle of what is acceptable to do on a day off with that of the religious leaders.<br />How does a person balance being willing to help people on their own time, with making sure to have adequate rest and recreation?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What do you figure are Jesus’ emotions when he looks around at the crowd?<br />Why might he be having feelings of frustration and anger at this point in his ministry?<br />How do the religious leaders react to Jesus act of compassion? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Why would they consider that appropriate actions to take on the Sabbath?<br />When have you in your spiritual walk “just not gotten” Jesus’ point?<br />How can we make sure we do not find ourselves at odds with Jesus’ purposes.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What does it show us about Jesus that he is able to heal this condition?<br />What does it demonstrate about Jesus that he is willing to heal this man publicly?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5642412521572048038?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-26046856459877580432008-01-30T14:18:00.000-08:002008-02-13T14:39:16.905-08:00<a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209:27%20-%2031&amp;version=31"><span style="font-size:100%;">Matthew 9: 27 – 31</span></a><span style=""><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]-->[Click on the Scripture citation to read the passage, Click on the title after Sunday to hear the podcast of the related message by Pastor Jon]<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Based on the context of the rest of chapter 9, why might Matthew pick this point in his gospel to tell this story of the healing of two blind men? <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Describe the reaction the blind men have to the fact of Jesus’ presence.<br />What does their question for Jesus imply about what they think of him?<br />What does it say about Jesus that he is really able to heal those who are blind?<span style=""></span><br />What are some ways that you experience blindness in your life?<br />What can we do to experience the spiritual enlightenment that Jesus offers?<br /><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]-->What should be our reaction when we come into Jesus’ presence in worship? <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">How would you describe Jesus’ overall attitude towards these two guys?<br />Why might Jesus act in a way towards them that seems a little distant and cold?<br />Why does Jesus ask them if they really believe that he is capable of this miracle?<br />What is it about faith that is so intricately connected to the experience of miracles?<br /><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]-->How does a person go about building more faith into their lives? <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Why does Jesus insist that they should not share this experience with others?<br />What does it tell us about their character that they are unwilling to obey this request?<br />What is an area in your life in which you find it difficult to be obedient to Jesus?<br />How can we become the kind of people who readily follow what Jesus tells us?<span style=""></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2604685645987758043?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-4825647052794305612008-01-23T14:29:00.000-08:002008-01-23T14:32:06.862-08:00<i style=""><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">Mark 1: 28 – 39<o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;"><o:p></o:p></span></i><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">Single: What was the most intense experience you had in meeting the parents of someone you have dated?<br />Married: What was your most humorous experience with your in-laws?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">Describe how Simon’s mother-in-law would have felt with a serious fever and all of these visitors, including a prestigious rabbi, coming over to her house.<br />What are some possible reasons that Jesus decided to heal her?<br />Why in the world does she begin to serve everyone immediately after her healing?<br />Who is someone you know who needs to be brought into Jesus’ presence for healing?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">What are some areas of physical healing you need in your life?<br />Why is it that Jesus does not choose to physically heal everyone who asks him?<o:p></o:p><br />Compare and contrast the healing of disease and the casting out of demons? <o:p></o:p><br />Why are people bringing all of these folks to Jesus for healing?<br />Why is Jesus spending the time and energy to help all of these people?<o:p></o:p><br />Why does Jesus not let the demonic powers reveal who he really is? <o:p></o:p><br />How can you better develop and utilize the gifts Jesus gave you to minister to people?<o:p></o:p><br />What are some areas of spiritual healing and freedom you need in your life?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;"><o:p></o:p>After a late night of ministry, why does Jesus get up early the next day to hang out with his Dad? <o:p></o:p><br />Why are Simon and his people so intent on finding Jesus and getting him back to work in their village?<br />How is it that Jesus knows with certainty that his mission calls him to move on from that town to minister in the surrounding villages? <o:p></o:p><br />How is it that Jesus is able to keep such personal clarity in the midst of rampant popularity?<o:p></o:p><br />How can we go about discover what God has for our next step in our ministries as individuals, and Context Group, and a church?<o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-482564705279430561?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-44537024135334650662008-01-23T14:27:00.000-08:002008-01-23T14:29:06.122-08:00<i style=""><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" ><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%207:1%20-%2010;&amp;version=31;">Luke 7: 1 – 10</a><o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" ><o:p></o:p></span></i><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >When is a time that you have been absolutely amazed at someone?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >For what reasons might it be quite odd for the elders to be encouraging this rabbi to help this soldier?<br />What seems to be the motivations of the elders in pursing Jesus’ assistance?<br />What reasons do you suppose Jesus has for choosing to help this guy?<br />Who are some people that you find it particularly difficult to serve?<br />How can you change your attitudes towards those you tend to exclude?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" ><o:p></o:p>What does it show about the character of this guy that he sends a contingent to refuse hospitality to Jesus?<br />Describe this man’s perspective on the concept of authority.<br />How does his view of authority help inform his perspective on Jesus’ ministry?<br />What does his statement of his view imply about who he believes Jesus to be?<br />What in your everyday life or career points you towards a deeper understanding of Jesus? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" ><o:p></o:p>What is so incredible about this guy’s faith that it actually impresses Jesus?<br />Why does Jesus go ahead and heal this servant from a distance?<br />How can you go about developing an “amazing” level of faith in your life?</span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4453702413533465066?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-90342049810024522902008-01-23T14:23:00.000-08:002008-02-13T14:39:44.453-08:00<i style=""><span style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%202:%201%20%20-%2011&amp;version=31">Mark 2: 1 – 12</a><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style=""><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></i><br /><br />(Click on study title to hear Sunday's message on this passage, click on the text to read the passage)<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">What is the most difficult climbing challenge you have ever faced?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></i><span style="">Based on this passage, describe the kind of relationship that Jesus has developed with the people in </span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="">Capernaum</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="">.<br />Why do you think that Jesus continues to go back there on his preaching/healing tour?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">If you were one of the men carrying the paralytic how would you have felt seeing the crowd packed in around Jesus?<br />If you were the owner of this house what would you have said to these guys about their tactics in getting their friend to Jesus?<br />Why are they so intent on accomplishing their goal of gaining Jesus’ audience?<br />What are some ways you could go out of your way to bring your friends into contact with Jesus?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Why does Jesus not apparently immediately physically heal the paralyzed man?<br />Why are the religious leaders so concerned about the content of Jesus’ teaching?<br />Are the religious leaders correct in their main observation of the role of God in forgiveness?<br />What does it imply about Jesus if he is really able to forgive people of their sins?<br />What are some poor choices in your life for which you need to experience forgiveness from Jesus tonight?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">How would you have felt as one of the religious leaders in vs. 8 when Jesus begins to answer questions that you had not yet verbalized?<br />Which really would be easier for someone to do: heal disease or forgive sins?<br />Why does Jesus end up eventually healing the guy of his physical issue as well?<br />What could you imagine would be the response of the crowd as the paralytic pushes through carrying his mat?<span style=""></span><br />What are some ways that Jesus has surprised you in how he worked in other people’s lives? <o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-9034204981002452290?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-24445182633747435682008-01-02T10:07:00.000-08:002008-01-02T10:16:06.082-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/R3vU0D5XBDI/AAAAAAAAABo/KVq-4VMG7Pg/s1600-h/800px-M_leprae_ziehl_nielsen2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/R3vU0D5XBDI/AAAAAAAAABo/KVq-4VMG7Pg/s400/800px-M_leprae_ziehl_nielsen2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150944589692470322" border="0" /></a><a href="javascript:void(0)" tabindex="10" onclick="return false;"><span></span></a><i style=""><span style=";font-family:&quot;;font-size:14;" ><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%205:%2012%20-%2016&amp;version=31">Luke 5: 12 – 16</a><o:p></o:p></span></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >When is a time you had a secret that you found particularly difficult to keep?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >What emotional and social impact can you imagine the disease of leprosy would have on this man over the years?<br />Why would leprosy be used in the Scriptures as a poignant symbol of being religiously impure? <o:p></o:p><br />What circumstances are occurring in your life that makes you feel isolated from the people of God?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >How would you describe the man’s actions when Jesus happens by him?<br />What does this man’s groveling show us about his personality and character?<br />Why is this guy choosing to actively place his trust in Jesus?<br />What could you do to make your prayer experience more heartfelt?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Describe in detail from this text the bedside manner of Jesus of Nazareth.<br />Why does Jesus bring healing to this man in this particular way?<br />What do we learn about Jesus by the way he heals this person?<br />How could you change your style of serving others to better match Jesus’ pattern?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Who is Jesus’ PR manager? Why does he want this miracle kept under wraps?<br />What are some reasons it is important that the man report to the religious elites?<br />What is something for which you need to experience Jesus’ healing in your life?<br />What are some ways that you have already experienced the healing he offers?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >What effect does this miracle end up having on the surrounding populous?<br />Why would it be nearly impossible to keep this kind of miracle secret?<br />What makes Jesus in his ministry so appealing to the crowds?<br />How can we reflect Jesus’ power in a way that is appealing to people?<br />What ways has God gifted you to minister to those around you?<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:&quot;;" >Why does Jesus practice the discipline of solitude at the end of this passage?<br />When do you have time alone with God to recharge and regroup?<br />How can you improve the time that you spend with him? <o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2444518263374743568?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-11187539537222711922007-12-12T14:56:00.000-08:002007-12-12T14:58:52.398-08:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2013:%201%20%E2%80%93%2010&amp;version=31">2 Corinthians 13: 1 – 10</a> <o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>What was the most difficult question you have ever faced on an exam? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Based on previous context, what is Paul’s reasoning for making a third visit to <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City>?<br />Upon what grounds does Paul consider that he has actual authority in that church?<br />Why is Paul planning to be harsh with them on his next visit?<br />How do we know when it is appropriate to be harsh in how we minister to others?<br />Why is real authority so difficult for us to accept in our culture?<br />How can we become more open to godly authorities in our lives?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Spend 10 minutes meditating quietly on verse 4a.<br />Why is Paul bringing up the example of Jesus’ ministry again with them?<br />What are some ways that you have noticed your weakness in your life this week?<br />What are some ways that you have seen the life-giving power of God in your life?<br />What similar responses should we have in our lives both to power and weakness?<br />What do you need to change in your worldview to gain a “cross” perspective on life?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><br />How does a person go about testing themselves to see if they really are a follower of Jesus?<br />Why does Paul tell them that they need to go through this painful personal inventory?<br />Why is Paul concerned that they may come up with a false impression of his walk?<br />What has convinced you in the past month of Jesus’ real presence in your life?<br />How can we ensure that we perform a fair evaluation on ourselves?<br />Why would it be particularly difficult to evaluate the sincerity of someone else’s walk?<br />How then can we discern if a leader should be followed or not? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1118753953722271192?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-91885427101222940172007-12-05T15:36:00.000-08:002007-12-05T16:07:35.511-08:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Cor%2011:21%20-%2012:10&amp;version=31">2Corinthians 11: 21 - 12:10</a><br /><br /> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some kinds of things that you hear people brag about in everyday conversation?<br />Why are those kinds of things viewed as pride-worthy?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on this passage, describe the relationship between the Apostle Paul and the church in <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:city>. Why is he so intensely flipping out in this conversation? Who is Paul comparing himself to in this passage? Why in the world has he resorted to personal comparisons and <i style="">ad hominem</i> arguments? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe in detail Paul’s lifestyle while on mission for Jesus. Why is it often that difficult for those who are swept up into Jesus’ story? Why does Paul see his suffering, difficult times, and inabilities as something that he is comfortable bragging about?<span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that you suffer in your life’s mission? How do we change our perspective to view those sufferings more positively rather than pessimistically?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the spiritual vision that Paul discusses at the beginning of chapter 12. Do you think this happened to him or to someone else? Why or why not? If this happened to Paul why does he choose not to brag about this experience? Why then does he mention this event if not to boast about it?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">How would such a mystical event be helpful to someone going through the kinds of suffering that Paul is experiencing?<span style=""> </span>Why do you think Jesus allowed Paul (or whoever that was) to have that amazing revelation?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that you have experienced Jesus in your everyday life this week? What can we do to place ourselves in a better position to receive that kind of existential grace? How can you use your experiences of Jesus’ presence to adjust your perspective on the suffering you face for being a disciple?</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What do you think Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” might have been?<br />Why would God allow this “messenger of Satan” to afflict Paul even when he asked for help?<br />What did Paul learn about Jesus and his relationship with him from having this disability?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are Christians truly strong only when they recognize their weakness?<br />What are some weaknesses you have in your life tonight?<br />Have you thanked God lately for the weaknesses he has allowed in your life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-9188542710122294017?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-25003393758264526802007-11-28T15:02:00.001-08:002007-11-28T15:06:53.786-08:00<i style=""><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Cor%2010:%201%20-%206&amp;version=31">2 Corinthians 10: 1 – 6</a><o:p></o:p></i><br /><br />Have you ever had something that was particularly difficult to get clean? How did you do it?<br /><br />Compare and contrast how Paul comes across in his letters with how he does in person.<br />Why is there such a difference between the impacts of the two?<br />What does Paul identify as the primary problems with those who are his opponents?<br />What are some “standards of the world” that impact our thinking today? <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What kind of terminology does Paul use to describe the debate he is having?<br />Why does Paul choose to use such militant verbiage?<br />Compare and contrast the arsenal that Paul uses (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Eph%206:10%20-%2020&amp;version=31">Eph 6:10 - 20</a>) with those the world uses.<br />Why are Paul’s tools more effective in deconstructing mental fortresses?<br />What is the primary purpose of spiritual battle according to this passage?<br />Based on the context of this passage, how would you define what strongholds actually are?<br />How would you describe the impact that spiritual strongholds have on people’s lives?<br />How can a line of thinking be led captive? What does it mean for a thought to obey Christ?<br />What are some negative spiritual strongholds that you may have embedded in your life?<br />What can you do to allow God to lay siege to and conquer those strongholds in your mind? <o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2500339375826452680?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-72169162208415705732007-11-14T14:52:00.000-08:002007-11-14T15:42:59.463-08:00<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/RzuHkx0_aoI/AAAAAAAAABI/2X_xaVdyYpg/s1600-h/Tear-Drop-Arch-Moonrise.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/RzuHkx0_aoI/AAAAAAAAABI/2X_xaVdyYpg/s400/Tear-Drop-Arch-Moonrise.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132845266239449730" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">image from www.luminous-landscape.com</span><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Corinthians%207:8-13&amp;version=31">2Corinthians 7: 8 - 13</a><br /><br />When you are really sorry about something you have done to a friend or loved one, how do you go about expressing that sorrow?<o:p></o:p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why was Paul feeling a tinge of regret concerning the severe letter he had sent?<br />What changes in this situation that causes Paul to put away those regrets?<br />Describe the way the Corinthians’ have responded to Paul’s confrontation of them.<br />Why did they react so positively to this harsh rebuke?<br />What were Paul’s motives in reproving them so severely?<br />Who is someone that out of your love for them you need to challenge their behavior?<br />How can you go about doing that and still keep a positive relationship with them?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast the ideas of Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow.<br />Why is worldly sorrow to be considered deadly and dangerous?<br />How would you define the concept of repentance to a non-Christian friend?<br />How could you use this concept to encourage a fellow disciple towards growth?<br />Why is it so easy to be sorrowful about something and so difficult to be truly repentant?<br />What is something that you need to repent of before God tonight? <span style=""></span><br />How can we as your spiritual family assist you in your process of repentance and surrender?<o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7216916220841570573?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-21829892860730012632007-11-07T14:46:00.000-08:002007-11-07T16:49:11.583-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/RzJB3gcl0SI/AAAAAAAAAAw/NPRkHjl-aPk/s1600-h/oxen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/RzJB3gcl0SI/AAAAAAAAAAw/NPRkHjl-aPk/s400/oxen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5130235347386880290" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Corinthians%206:%2014%20-%207:1&amp;version=31"><i style="">2Corinthians </i><st1:time minute="14" hour="18"><i style="">6: 14</i></st1:time></a><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Corinthians%206:%2014%20-%207:1&amp;version=31"> – 7:1</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Who was the absolutely worst instructor you ever have had in any training situation? What was it that terribly annoyed you about this person? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The yoking of oxen or donkeys was common in the ancient world in order to pull carts, plows, or accomplish other basic tasks that were too difficult for a single animal. What are some contemporary examples of such teamwork in the workplace? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Yoking was often used as an illustration for being joined together under the teaching of a rabbi or other spiritual leader (Matthew <st1:time minute="29" hour="11">11:29</st1:time>), or being driven by a strong ruler. What are some situations in today’s world that this kind of spiritual partnering occurs? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does Paul describe the deep incongruity between believers and unbelievers in their spiritual perspectives? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Paul use such vivid and harsh rhetorical questions to drive his point home? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Paul quote so many passages from the Old Testament concerning God’s relationship with his people? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the kind of relationship that God desires to have with those committed to him.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it so problematic for a Christian to be involved in pagan or non-Christian spirituality?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that non-Christian spirituality or idolatry creeps into our lives today?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on what Paul is saying in this passage, give a description of an ideal Christian life.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some things in your life that need to change in order to better match that ideal? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">If we really are incapable of making these changes on our own as the Scripture insist what process do we need to go through in order to better comply with these standards? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does a person go about being separate from the world yet engaged evangelistically? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2182989286073001263?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-83801728056291131052007-10-31T13:13:00.000-07:002007-10-31T15:35:35.121-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Corinthians%205:%2014%20%E2%80%93%206:3&amp;version=31"><i style="">2Corinthians </i><st1:time minute="14" hour="17"><i style="">5: 14 – 6:13</i></st1:time></a><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>When is a time that you mistakenly sent an email or text message to the wrong person? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on this passage describe to me the basic message of the good news as portrayed by Paul as if I were a non-Christian to whom you were witnessing. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What makes the gospel truly good news for anyone who hears it?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In what ways is the reality of the gospel absolutely revolutionary in the life that anyone who accepts it? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does Paul choose to use the term “reconciliation” to describe what goes on between a new disciple and God at the moment of conversion? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is the reception of the gospel considered something that is so urgent? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is Paul repeating this message to a bunch of folks who are already supposed to be followers of Jesus? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do you go about recognizing the power of the gospel in areas of your life yet unaffected? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How is it an honor for a person to be assigned to sharing the gospel with others? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God entrust the spread of the gospel of Jesus to such bumbling fools like us?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">To whom is God asking you to serve as his representative this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Who is going to pray for you and hold you accountable to actually share the gospel message with them? <o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8380172805629113105?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-65476220463071103822007-10-10T15:33:00.000-07:002007-10-10T15:36:43.609-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Corinthians%204&amp;version=31"><span style="font-size:130%;">2Corinthians Chapter 4: 1 – 17</span></a> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When is a time that you faced a deep personal or professional discouragement?<br />What makes discouragement so difficult to deal with in life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on verses 1 – 6 how would you describe in detail Paul’s methods of ministry?<br />Based on the context of this passage (i.e. chapter 3) why does Paul minister in that way?<br />How do you need to improve the ways you serve those in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast the veil Paul is discussing in chapter 4 with what he described in chapter 3. Why does Paul take the time to discuss this veiling?<br />When have been some times in your life their has been a veil over your heart?<br />How did God go about enlightening you? When you recognize a veil in your life what should you do? How can you go about helping someone who is veiled from seeing the truth?<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does Paul describe God, Jesus, and the message of the gospel in this passage?<br />In what different ways are Paul and other Christian ministers similar to “jars of clay”?<br />Why does God entrust the distribution of his message to the world to people like us?<br />How should these verses change your perspective on what it means to be a minister?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you describe the physical realities of Paul’s ministry setting and situation?<br />What purpose does Paul recognize in the suffering that he is facing?<br />Why does Paul remain hopeful even in such challenging circumstances?<br />How does your daily service of others parallel Paul’s experience?<br />What can we do to allow more hope to be built into our lives?<br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;">How does a person go about gaining a more eternal perspective? </span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6547622046307110382?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-20082882740477974362007-10-03T16:27:00.000-07:002007-10-03T16:29:56.913-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Cor%201:15%20-%202:4&amp;version=31"><i style="">2Corinthians </i><st1:time minute="15" hour="13"><i style="">1: 15</i></st1:time></a><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Cor%201:15%20-%202:4&amp;version=31"> – 2:4</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>When is a time that an employer, friend, or even yourself radically changed plans at the last minute? How did that make you feel?</p>Bases on this text, describe the kind of relationship that Paul has with the church in <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City>.<br />What are the feelings that he has for this church? Why does he care so deeply for them?<br />What is the current state of their relationship at the point he is writing this letter?<br />What is causing this relational tension from Paul’s side? From <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City>’s perspective? <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How does Paul go about defending his change of travel plans?<br />Why does Paul spend so much time focusing on God’s faithfulness in his explanation?<br />What does Paul tell them about our relationship with God implied by God’s faithfulness?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some of the promises that God has fulfilled through the life of Jesus?<o:p></o:p><br />What are some ways that you need to do a better job standing firm in your faith?<br />What mission has God anointed you with his Spirit to accomplish?<br />How are you going about that? How are you going to start or improve your efforts?<br />Why is it vitally important to us that God has placed his “seal of ownership” on us?<br />What amazing kind promise is God making to us that our receiving of the Spirit is a down payment?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2008288274047797436?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-27608653023410205442007-10-01T15:14:00.000-07:002007-10-01T16:38:40.410-07:00<div>This is the first try at an online video podcast called Kerygma.  We wish to present different messages in the Word through video and creative projections.  We would love to hear what you think.  -ptonyro-</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><embed style="width:400px; height:326px;" id="VideoPlayback" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docId=-6010774072768922394&amp;hl=en" flashvars=""></embed><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-2760865302341020544?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>ptonyrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09211775486723696561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-12533869120688516142007-09-26T12:48:00.000-07:002007-09-26T13:04:10.584-07:00This is far more coverage than I expected when I gave this "soundbite" for them, but praise God for such a wonderful platform to discuss our vision!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mbn.org/GenMoody/default.asp?sectionID=AD53896CDCF642AFA602040A5B93538C&amp;archdate=09/24/2007&amp;gti=0">MOODY INTERVIEW</a><br /><br />Click the above link and then scroll down the page on MBN, click on the date of the show to listen, you can fast forward to minute 46 in the broadcast to hear the interview.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1253386912068851614?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-82234592850253132072007-09-19T13:05:00.000-07:002007-09-19T13:07:20.676-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">1Corinthians 15<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>How would a real tour of <st1:place>Europe</st1:place> be superior to a virtual tour of <st1:place>Europe</st1:place>? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p>Read verses 1 – 11.</i><br />Based on this passage what descriptions would you give to the creeds of the early church?<br />Why did they consider these facts about Jesus to be so vitally important?<br />Why does Paul list off the witnesses of the resurrection to the Corinthians?<br />Why do you think Paul mentions his witness of the resurrection even though it is abnormal? <span style=""></span><br />Why is Paul even bothering with rehashing the Christian creed with them?<br />How would the application of this creed alter your basic ways of thinking?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 12 – 33.</i><br />Describe the error the Corinthians are making in their thinking. Why would this be such a tempting perspective for them?<br />What are some of the reasons Paul gives as to why bodily resurrection is such an important teaching?<br />How can Jesus be “made subject” to the Father and still be his equal as the text also teaches?<br />What in the world is Paul talking about when he is discussing baptism for the dead?<br />How might an emphasis on immortality without a concept of resurrection negatively effect the ideas, actions, attitudes, etc. of disciples?<br />What aspects of your world view need to change based on the implications of the gospel?<br />How do you go about changing worldview?<br /><o:p> </o:p><br /><i style="">Read verses 34 – 58.</i><br />Compare and contrast our resurrection bodies and our current bodies.<br />What illustrations does Paul use to describe these realities? How are these particularly good illustrations? What other contemporary illustrations can we think of comparing these?<br />Why will we need transformed bodies? Why is Paul so excited about these prospects?<br />Based on this end-times hope, how does Paul say our lives should be different?<br />How would having a more eternal perspective improve your life for Jesus now? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8223459285025313207?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-57897278361491627632007-09-12T14:51:00.000-07:002007-09-12T14:53:02.317-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%2013&amp;version=31">1Corinthians Chapter 13</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>What is your favorite romantic fairy-tale couple and why?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the kinds of things Paul says are worthless without love.<br />Why does he consider love necessary in order to give these good things value?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How would you summarize, according to Paul, what true love really is?<br />Compare and contrast Paul’s definition of love with the definitions common in our world.<br />Why are these definitions so different? How do we know that Paul’s definition is right?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What illustrations does Paul use to give a contrast of the eternal perspective to the temporal?<br />Why are these illustrations particularly appropriate for his content and audience?<br />What are some other illustrations you could think of to make the same point?<br />In what way is love more eternal than the other things he describes in the passage? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>How do you need to change your perspective on what love really is? How can you do that?<br />What are ways that you fail to act in a loving way towards others? How do you change?<br />What are some ways that you can show more love to those in your family, community, church?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5789727836149162763?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-42401271483105418752007-08-29T13:00:00.000-07:002007-08-29T13:03:08.682-07:00<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;;"></span><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%2012&version=31">1 Corinthians Chapter 12</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>What is the most meaningful gift that anyone has ever given you?<br />What is the coolest gift that you ever gave to someone else?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Paul start out his discussion of spiritual gifts by discussing how to determine the source of a spiritual power?<br />How would you describe the litmus test that Paul defines for spiritual powers?<br />What are some spiritual influences you see in your everyday life?<br />How can you discern if those forces are from God, yourself, the world, or from the enemy?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Into what categories would you sort the different gifts mentioned in this passage?<br />Why would God be so intent to give these particular gifts to his church?<br />Why would Paul discuss these particular gifts with the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Corinth</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>?<br />Which of these or other gifts do you see present in your life?<br />How could you go about practicing these gifts in our Context Group? In our church? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on our medical knowledge, how is the local church similar to a human body?<br />Why is it so important to Jesus (and Paul) that the church function as a unified body?<br />Why is this truth particularly vital for the church in <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City> to understand?<br />What obstacles tend to keep you from being united together with those in your local church?<br />Why is unity in the church such a difficult goal to obtain?<br />What steps can you take this week to increase the reality of church unity?<span style=""> </span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4240127148310541875?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-18394527601081159902007-07-25T15:13:00.000-07:002007-07-25T15:15:51.054-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%206;&version=31;">1Corinthians Chapter 6</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Why is corruption so loathed in public officials?<br />Why is doping so hated in sports celebrities?<br />Why is embezzlement so strictly punished for business moguls? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Read verses 1 – 8.<br />Describe Paul’s attitude towards Christians in <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City> who are getting all litigious.<br />Why is Paul so vehemently against suing other disciples?<br />When would be some examples that it would be appropriate for a Christian to go to court?<br />How should your attitude towards other disciples change based on the principles in this text?<br />Why is it so difficult to treat others the way we should? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Read verses 9 – 11.<br />Describe the other kinds of behavior that should not be character defining for a disciple.<br />What is it about these behaviors that demonstrate a lack of commitment to Kingdom values?<br />What does Paul’s list tell us about the church in <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City>?<br />How can we know that it is possible for Christians to have victory over these behaviors?<br />Which of these behaviors are most tempting to you?<br />What are you going to do to embrace victory in that area this week?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Read verses 12 – 20.<br />Based on Paul’s answers, reconstruct the questions the Corinthians must have been asking.<br />According to Paul, why is sexual immorality a sin that has particularly steep consequences?<br />What about our reality as disciples makes sexual sin incredibly nauseating to God?<br />What are some strategies you have found effective in running from immoral behavior? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1839452760108115990?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-85208440145046927842007-07-25T15:11:00.000-07:002007-07-25T15:13:40.707-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%205&amp;version=31">1Corinthians Chapter 5</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Describe Paul’s attitude towards this church at this point. Why is he so incredibly upset?<br />How would you describe the kind of sin for which Paul is insisting on banishment?<br />Why does Paul insist that this person be separated from the community?<br />If all sin is eternally serious before God, what makes one sin more “grievous?”<br />What are some serious sins in your life that you need help and accountability in overcoming?<br />What does this chapter tell us about how to go about helping those trapped in grievous sins? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Paul use the leaven analogy? How is sin similar to yeast or to a virus?<br />Compare Jesus with the Passover sacrifice in Exodus chapter 12.<br />What is the reason it is so important for us to remove sin from our lives as Christians?<br />How can we more effectively remove sin from our lives? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why does Paul have a different set of expectations for Christians and non-Christians?<br />What are some things for which you tend to judge the world around you?<br />What are some sins in the church that we tend to ignore or excuse?<br />Why is it OK to be judicious in the church based on Jesus says in Matthew 7:1?<br />Why is it so much easier for us to judge the world that for us to judge ourselves? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8520844014504692784?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-67501249737664463022007-07-04T10:00:00.000-07:002007-07-04T20:43:33.694-07:00Well, not exactly the greatest way we have gotten our names in the press, but hey, here it is. The fireworks show in Millennium park was great, the trip back was a bit adventurous.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/455989,CST-NWS-CTA04.article">Chicago Sun-Times Articles</a><br /><br />TV Story involving our kids and relatives on the CTA as follow up from Sun-time article.<br /><a href="http://www.myfoxchicago.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail?contentId=3681868&version=2&amp;locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&amp;pageId=1.1.1"><br />FOX News Chicago</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6750124973766446302?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1642827819174557612007-06-27T16:49:00.000-07:002007-06-27T16:53:29.758-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%203&amp;version=31">1Corinthians Chapter 3</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are reality TV shows like American Idol so popular? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the primary problems in the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Corinth</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> that is causing Paul to label them as immature. Why would those kinds of attitudes be considered immature? What are some ways that you act immature as a Christian? How can you improve in these areas?</p><p class="MsoNormal">What are some terms that Paul uses to describe the church in this passage? How can he have such a high view of what a church is and such a low view of this particular church? What can we do as a group to better live up to what a church should be?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What images does Paul use for the day of reckoning? Why does Paul place such an intense focus on that future judgment? What kinds of things would be combustibles on the Day? What kinds of things would survive during that crucible? What needs to change in your life and service to others now to be better prepared for that Day? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it so silly for them to be involved in their partisan bickering? How does a person go about becoming the kind of fool that Paul encourages them to become? Why does he suggests they should embrace folly? How much impact does worldly wisdom have on your life? How could you reduce its effect on you? <o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-164282781917455761?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-67575057140894193752007-06-13T15:42:00.000-07:002007-06-13T15:46:13.545-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%201:%2018%20-%202:16&version=31"><i style="">1Corinthians </i><st1:time minute="17" hour="13"><i style="">1:17 – 2:16</i></st1:time><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i></a> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p> </o:p></i>What is the best piece of common sense advice you have ever received?<br />Who is the wisest person you have ever known? What makes a person wise?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What is the kind of power that is contained in the death of the man named Jesus?<br />Why in the world is this execution so incredibly powerful?<br />How can we go about seeing more of that power in our lives today?<o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Based on this passage, describe how Paul goes about communicating the good news.<br />Why is Paul so intentionally simplistic in his communication technique?<br />How should this impact the way we talk about Jesus with our friends and colleagues? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Based on what Paul says, how would you describe the people in the <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:City> church?<br />Why would these ragamuffins be the ones who are able to receive God’s message?<br />In what way could those who are wise, influential, noble, and strong come to God?<br />How does a person go about becoming truly more humble? <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Contrast the wisdom that the world values with the wisdom that God offers.<br />Why did God select such a disturbingly different kind of wisdom to contain his secret?<br />Why is Christian wisdom reserved only for those who are well advanced in their faith?<br />What are the benefits in life of learning to resonate with God’s real wisdom?<br />What sources of worldly wisdom are most appealing to you in your life?<br />How can we learn to be more open to the wisdom that God offers? </p>What does God long to transform in the way that you view the world? Will you let him? <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6757505714089419375?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-65896100345942139602007-06-06T15:28:00.000-07:002007-06-06T15:31:06.073-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%201:%201%20-%2017&version=31"><i style="">1Corinthians 1: 1 – 17<o:p></o:p></i></a> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Build a passionate case for who you think is the best public speaker in <st1:country-region><st1:place>America</st1:place></st1:country-region> today. </p><div style="text-align: justify;">Describe the relationship between Paul and this church based simply on what you see here in this beginning of the letter. Why do you think he is so intimately connected with this group of disciples? What can we do to build deeper ministry relationships in our lives? </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What are the positive things about the church that Paul lists off in this section of greeting and celebration? Why would he start by detailing the healthy attributes of this congregation? What does his list of positive characteristics show us about what the Apostle values in churches? Why does he value these particular things? How can we as a context group better mirror some of these attributes in our community?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">What are the details of the primary problematic situation in the church that causes the Apostle to write this letter? Why in the world is this such an enormous concern to him? What are some ways that we act like this as Christians today? What can you do to promote Christian unity in our church this week?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What are some things that you discover about Jesus in this passage? <o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-6589610034594213960?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-5884484532639720492007-05-30T16:25:00.000-07:002007-05-30T16:27:43.874-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut%2012&amp;version=31">Deuteronomy 12</a><o:p></o:p></i><br /><br />What is your favorite place in the whole world and why? <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe what God wants <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> to do to the religious institutions of the Promised Land when they enter there. What was there about Canaanite religion that God was so intolerant about? Why would those things upset him so much? What needs to change in your spiritual attitudes, values, and beliefs because they are displeasing to God? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What was to happen at the place that God selected for the Israelites? Why do you think there was only going to be one place like this? What are some special worship times and places God has selected for you in your life? How can we ensure our worship times have a deeper impact on our everyday lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe the different kinds of sacrifices mentioned in the chapter. Why are sacrifices given such a prominent place in worship in the Old Testament? What kinds of offerings does God desire from us today? </p>What is the process necessary for eating non-sacrificial meat? Why does God give such specific instructions concerning their menu? Obviously, Jesus frees us from the dietary restrictions of the law, but based on these principles how might God want your menu to change?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-588448453263972049?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-15450281152799486392007-05-14T10:25:00.000-07:002007-05-30T10:29:36.200-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;">This is the sixth monthly installment of our Interfaith blog conversation. In these articles various bloggers from a variety of faith traditions discuss topics of spiritual importance. I am writing from an Evangelical Protestant perspective. Links for the other perspectives will be added as the make posts on their blogs. [<a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2007/05/interfaith-blog-event-6-role-of-faith.html">Mike - Buddhist</a>] [<a href="http://pagansojourn.blogspot.com/2007/05/interfaith-event-faith.html">Sojourn - Pagan</a>] [<a href="http://druidjournal.net/2007/05/15/interfaith-blog-event-6-faith-faith-in-druidism/">Jeff - Druid</a>] [<a href="http://mattstone.blogs.com/journeysinbetween/2007/05/faith_what_is_i.html">Matt - Emerging</a>]<br /><br />The topic today is:<span style="font-weight: bold;"> What is your view regarding the meaning and the role of faith? What importance does it play in your community and in your daily life?</span><br /><br />Faith as a concept stands at the center of Protestant Christian theology. In fact, <span style="font-style: italic;">Sola Fide</span> (Faith Alone) was the primary marketing motto that Martin Luther used in challenging the authority of the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church (AD 1511). I deeply appreciate the topic Sojourn, and it should lead to some interesting discussion. As hopefully will be shown in this essay, faith has deep personal meaning to Christians beyond its historical impact.<br /><br />Like any abstract metaphysical word, faith is a complicated term with a variety of definitions. Faith can be used to refer to "a faith" which is referring to the set of beliefs and practices that constitute an orthodox creed. Faith can also be used to refer to basic intellectual ascent to something (belief) with or without evidence. Finally, faith can also be used for the personal trust that you place in someone. A Christian concept of faith includes all of these categories, and beyond that insists that a real faith will imply action beyond mere statements.<br /><br />G.K. Chesterton traces in his work "ORTHODOXY" the process he went through in his life to "discover" the truths of basic Christian teaching. C.S. Lewis calls this basic core of Christian teaching "MERE CHRISTIANITY" and discuss his journey towards those positions in a book by the same name. The creed of the church is the set of beliefs that all people who call themselves Christians (or a particular group of Christians) hold in common. Examples of creeds that all people who consider themselves Orthodox Christians would believe include the APOSTLE'S CREED and the NICENE CREED. Different groups within Christianity also list different creeds, confessions, and statements of faith to further biblically define their theological system as a group. Some famous examples of these would be the WESTMINSTER CONFESSION and the BAPTIST FAITH AND MESSAGE. One thing that can be said about all of the creeds and confessions in general is that Christians do sincerely affirm that the content of one's belief is of equal importance with one's sincerity of belief. In other words, what you believe in is at least as crucial as how you go about believing. There are treasures of thought in the ancient creeds and confessions of the church that Christians do not want to loose, even when they at times do not fully understand them.<br /><br />Many times atheists and other secularists accuse Christians of having blind faith, faith that has no correspondence with reason, or that indeed challenges reason directly. While Christians certainly would not challenge the validity of such a choice of will to affirm the basic doctrines of the creed with certainty, few actually have truly blind faith. Almost all Christians would argue that their beliefs are at least possible, though they may not understand how. For most Christians there are logical, empirical, or experiential reasons that have convinced them that their beliefs are justified. Those personal probabilities are then confirmed by the will to faith creating certainty beyond probability.<br /><br />For Christians this intellectual ascent to the creed, while necessary, is never (at least by most) considered "enough" to be real faith. Such belief must be followed by action to prove its validity. It is one thing for me to say I believe that God is love. It is another, and far more powerful thing for me to show my neighbors the love of God by mowing their lawn. The Apostle James argued that faith without works is dead. No one wants the rotting corpse of an insincere faith sitting around!<br /><br />On a far deeper level, however, faith is more than either intellectual ascent or even the action that follows such beliefs. The closest biblical synonym for faith is trust. Personal trust is the essence of real biblical faith. Kierkegaard discusses this in length in his powerful and beautiful work "FEAR AND TREMBLING." God does not simply want people who say he exists. God wants people who will trust him with their lives, trust him for deliverance, trust him with their futures. Jesus in his ministry continually challenged people to put their trust in him. In a world where trust is so frequently broken that can indeed be a difficult choice to make. The creed and the Scriptures, however, both show us characteristics of God that demonstrate his trustworthiness. He may not do things how we would expect or even desire, but we can know that he has our best interests in mind. We can certainly know that he loves us, and that love is the ground for the trust we as Christians place personally in him.<br /><br />I can best illustrate how faith works by describing my relationship with my wife. I trust my wife completely. I know I can trust her because I know her character. There are some things that I can logically know about my wife that help me to know her character, but my trust in her goes far deeper than merely the things that I can prove. My experience of her along with my "creed" about her both show that she is trustworthy.<br /><br />For Christians, it is the common experience of trusting God and the shared creed/confessions that give us grounds for fellowship. Indeed faith makes up the common basis that creates Christian community. Shared faith is the true foundation for every actual Christian church.<br /><br />Ultimately, this hybrid concept called faith is what is necessary for a person to possess in order to experience what the Scriptures call deliverance and eternal life. Personal trust in the personal God effects every aspect of a Christian's daily life, and indeed directly impacts their experience of eternity.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NIV)</span><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1545028115279948639?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-73726080888299908402007-05-09T14:59:00.000-07:002007-05-09T15:02:08.832-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Deuteronomy 19: 1 – 21<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why are shows like Law & Order so popular? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Read verses 1 – 14. Describe the city of refuge system.<br />Why is God so specific concerning their accessibility and the expansion of the system?<br />What would the existence of this system do for the average Israelite?<br />What would be some contemporary examples of the case describe in verse 5?<br />Imagine that you were in a family that suffered a loss, how would the existence of these towns change your perspective?<br />Imagine that you were one accused of manslaughter. How would it feel to arrive at the city of refuge? How would it feel to live there until the high priest died?<br />What process is the city to go through if someone who actually committed intentional murder arrives at the city? Why is it so important that they are extradited?<br />What systems could we create in our lives that would limit our tendency to revenge?<br />How does the grace and forgiveness God gives us in the New Testament supersede the cities of refuge?<br />What is something you need God’s forgiveness for tonight?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""></span>Why in the world is verse 14 included in this passage? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Read verses 15 – 21. Why is it necessary to have a plurality of witnesses in a case?<br />Describe the process taken to determine if perjury has occurred. What does this tell us about the legal machinery in Ancient Israel? Why are they reminded that they are in God’s presence?<br />Why is breaking the 10^th commandment considered a capital crime?<br />Why is the lex talonis applied to cases of false testimony even though no actual harm is done to the accused?<br />How is the law of retribution actually a limit on revenge?<br />Who is someone you feel like you need to exact revenge upon?<br /><span style=";font-family:&quot;;font-size:100%;" >How can you go about forgiving this person this week</span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7372608088829990840?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-38335123692329205752007-04-11T16:40:00.000-07:002007-04-11T16:43:26.217-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2013&version=31">Deuteronomy Chapter 13</a><o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When was your worst experience of hindered viewing (static, dust, obstacles)?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 1 – 5<o:p></o:p></i><br />What about the prophet or dreamer mentioned here would make his claims believable?<br />What would clearly demonstrate that the prophet was not to be followed?<br />Why would that be something that invalidate his claims?<br />Why would such behavior be so serious that it would be considered a capital crime?<br />[Note- capital crimes in the Bible were rarely enforced by execution, rather they were a statement of the seriousness of the crime]<br />How are you going to get to know God’s word better this year to ensure you can discern good spiritual messages from bad spiritual messages?<br />What are some things that you need to radically change in your life to ensure the false messages in the world today do not affect your spirituality?<br />How can you make sure the advice you give to others is spiritually sound?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 6 – 11</i><br />What about a close relative tempting you to disloyalty God would make it particularly tempting?<br />Why is the observer expected to spark the enactment of the punishment?<br />Why is this considered serious enough to be a capital crime?<br />What effect is the enactment of the punishment expected to have on society?<br />What are some examples of this problem happening in the history of <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region>?<br />What are some ways that close family members can create spiritual problems for disciples today?<br />Obviously, execution is not how to deal with this situation today (that was even rarely done in the ancient world). How can we best deal with this problem when we are faced with it in our lives? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 12 – 18<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is to happen to an Israelite city if the whole city leaves God?<br />Why would this be a problem to the remaining Israelites?<br />Why is such an intense investigation expected?<br />Describe the punishment that is to be enacted if a whole town is disloyal?<br />Why is such a severe punishment given?<br />Why are people not to even keep any of the plunder or livestock from the city?<br />What does this say about our spiritual impact on other people?<br />How can we make sure we are avoiding negative spiritual impact on those around us? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-3833512369232920575?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-52356214323656350982007-04-02T09:34:00.000-07:002007-04-04T09:14:35.933-07:00This post is part of an interfaith dialogue discussing various spiritual topics from a variety of different perspectives. To read the other articles follow these links: <a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2007/04/interfaith-blog-event-5-role-of.html">[Mike's Article - Buddhist]</a> <a href="http://pagansojourn.blogspot.com/2007/04/interfaith-event-5-forgiveness.html">[Sojourner's Article - Pagan]</a>. This article is written from an Evangelical Christian perspective. The question we are addressing this month is: <b><i>What role does the concept and application of interpersonal forgiveness play in your spiritual tradition?<br /><br /></i></b><div style="text-align: justify;">If you examine "mere Christianity," beyond all of the religious trappings different groups place upon it like ill-fitted clothing, what you find at its center is a spiritual system that is primarily concerned with relationships. These relationships happen at two basic levels: the relationship between God and people, and the relationships that exist between people. This core of relationships forms the basic ground for the ethical system we call morality. Christians recognize that often people simply do not live up to the terms of their relationships, and at its most basic level, this is what is meant by saying that something is "immoral." Christian theology in fact, goes a step further, and argues that a tendency towards these immoral acts exists for all of us. It also insists that there are consequences for choosing to live in an immoral way. Immorality (so defined) is simply not healthy on an individual level, on a social level, or on a spiritual level. All broken relationships are painful, certain eternally broken relationships are quite literally hell.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Because of these philosophical underpinnings, the concept of forgiveness is central to Christian faith and practice, and this forgiveness needs to happen on two levels in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">oppostie</span> directions. First, people need to experience forgiveness from God, and then people need to extend forgiveness to other people. A sceptic may at this point wave the red flag and shout: "When did I ever do anything against God that requires his forgiveness?" One way to explain the logic of this claim is as follows: Assuming God exists, and that there is a moral law in the universe, it follows that the moral law must in some way reflect both God's will and his character. If God were to create moral agents (i.e. human beings) part of the expectation he would have for them in their creation would be that they would live in the way he desires. That would be part of the terms of our relationship with our Creator. Since we all know that we have failed in some way, that means that we are all in need of forgiveness from God.<br /><br />God provides the opportunity for forgiveness through what Jesus did on Good Friday just under 2000 years ago. I do not have time in this brief article to explain the entire doctrine of atonement, but indeed it could be summarized simply by some of Jesus' last words on the cross "Father, forgive them, they know not what they are doing." A basic statement of the doctrine is that God designed for Jesus to take the penalty for our sin on the cross, so that whoever places their trust (faith) in Jesus will experience true forgiveness and a renewed relationship with God. Jesus can accomplish this because he was both the only man who never morally failed, and simultaneously he has a unique relationship with the Father: he is God the Son.<br /><br />Jesus tells the story of a man who was forgiven a debt of millions of dollars by a powerful and influential leader. The man then goes out and demands payment of a ten dollar debt from a buddy of his. When the friend is unable to pay, the man has his friend thrown in jail. You can imagine how the influential leader would respond when he hears how this man treated his friend. Jesus, when he teaches his followers how to pray insists that they ask God "to forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors."<br /><br />To a Christian, forgiving others should be the grateful and natural result of having accepted the generous forgiveness that God has given them. The process of Christian forgiveness includes confronting offenses that one experiences in relationship, extending forgiveness as people come to an understanding of their error, and allowing trust to be rebuilt over time. Beyond that, even if other people are not ever ultimately sorry for their actions, a Christian has no grounds for revenge, judgment is left in God's hands. This high standard of forgiveness is firmly grounded on the what a Christian has experienced in their relationship with God.<br /><br />Forgiveness is indeed the central experience and practice of Christianity. Furthermore, as Phillip Yancy claims, it is in fact a good example of a miracle - an supernaural act. What a wonderful miracle to celebrate this Holy Week!<br /></div></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5235621432365635098?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-16743975144378861692007-03-28T12:46:00.000-07:002007-03-28T12:50:22.323-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%208&amp;version=31">Deuteronomy 8:1-20</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>What was the most difficult exam you ever had to take in school?<br />Why do teachers give students difficult exams? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Describe in detail the wilderness in which the Israelites spent forty years?<br />How would you categorize the experiences they had while in the wilderness?<br />In what ways does God provide for his people while they are out in the desert?<br />Why does God put his people through that kind of difficult struggle?<br />How can we better cope with times of personal testing?<br />Based on this passage, how can we better help others who are going through difficult times?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>In what ways will the experience of the Israelites once they gain the Promised Land contrast from what they have been through during the forty years in the desert?<br />What different kinds of testing do they face the prospect of a more prosperous and comfortable future?<br />Why do people sometimes loose their focus on God when things seem to be going better in their lives?<br />What are some strategies we can develop from this passage to help us retain our loyalty to God even when things go better than we had expected?<br />Why is an attitude of self-sufficiency in reality extremely ridiculous?<br />How does a person take more care to follow God’s instructions without becoming legalistic in attitude?<o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1674397514437886169?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-12836021236694523442007-03-21T12:17:00.000-07:002007-03-21T12:19:43.487-07:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%206:%201%20-%209&version=31">Deuteronomy 6: 1 – 9</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">If you were to get a new tattoo what would you have it say and why?</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In verses 1 – 3 what are some of Moses’ main concerns for his people. Why is it so important that the people obey the commands of the LORD? Why is it so important that they share these commands with their descendants? What can you do this next week to help raise up the next generation of disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What do we find out about God in verses 4 – 5? What are some of the possible ways to interpret God as being one? How can you square this statement with the central Christian doctrine of the Trinity? What kind of response should the reality of God elicit from our lives? Why does the command list these three separate areas of life? How can you show your love for God with your heart this week? How can you show your love for God with your self this week? How can you show your love for God with your abilities this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p>Describe the kinds of places you should write or talk about the Word of God according to verses 6 – 9. Why in the world does Moses encourage them to do this? How does a person make sure God’s commands are on their hearts? How do you teach these commands to children without becoming Jesus Camp?<span style=""> </span>When is an opportunity you have each day to talk about God’s word at home? How could you make sure you think on God’s word when you are commuting or on the train? How often is God the first thing you think about in the morning and the last thing you think about at night? What are some creative ways you could carry God’s word on your person? What are some ways you could decorate with God’s word around your house? What are some ways you could post God’s word around the neighborhood?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1283602123669452344?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-54470907871050686012007-03-15T16:49:00.000-07:002007-03-15T17:19:13.913-07:00Just in case anyone is struggling with the ridiculous claims of the Jesus Tomb Documentary here are links to a couple of blogs that will help to answer the question for you. Hope this compiling helps someone. Praise God for Easter!<br /><br /><a href="http://benwitherington.blogspot.com/2007/02/jesus-tomb-titanic-talpiot-tomb-theory.html">Ben Witherington</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.getreligion.org/?p=2246">Get Religion</a><br /><a href="http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=NDIyZjZkZjUzOWNiY2IwYmVjYzczNGE3NTZiMzdlODg"><br />Very Sarcastic and Funny</a><br /><a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/februaryweb-only/109-33.0.html"><br />Christianity Today</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5447090787105068601?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-53108215142832373952007-03-01T13:59:00.000-08:002007-03-01T14:00:27.432-08:00The very first article ever posted on this blog has now been posted on the emerging conversation group blog <a href="http://www.theooze.com/articles/article.cfm?id=1436">theooze.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5310821514283237395?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-71889285784769892562007-02-28T16:58:00.001-08:002007-02-28T17:00:32.227-08:00<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut%205:%201%20-%2022&version=31"><br /></a></p><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut%205:%201%20-%2022&amp;version=31">Deuteronomy 5: 1 - 22</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Into what groupings would you split the commandments? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is similar between the first four and the last six?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />What are the grounds for God’s right to declare what is right and wrong in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some other gods that people tend to have in our society?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some other gods you tend to struggle with in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What practical steps can you take to lay down false gods?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why are people told not to make idols? How is artistic expression different than idol worship?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What boxes to we tend to place God into in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we free our vision of God from our own misconceptions of him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does it make sense that the punishment for idolatry goes into the future generations?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it that loving God has a longer effect than disobeying him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why is misusing God’s name something that is a cursed action?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that people misuse God’s name today?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we avoid doing that in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God list all the people and animals he does in discussing the topic of the Sabbath? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we live this principle in our lives today? When is your time of rest during the week?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why is there a specific blessing tied to honoring our parents?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do you show honor to your parents in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about God’s values that he specifically outlaws murder?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that we struggle with these values other than direct personal violence?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about God’s values that he outlaws adultery? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are ways people struggle with idolatry other than direct marital unfaithfulness?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God outlaw stealing? What are ways people steal besides direct theft?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it mean to give false testimony about something? Why would that be illegal?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are ways people break the principle of honesty besides basic perjury? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it wrong to covet what your neighbor has? What does it mean to covet something?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />What value does this list have for Christians who live under God’s grace? Do these principles ever change? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Of which do you need to specifically repent to better reflect the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Who do you have who can help to hold you accountable in these areas?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-7188928578476989256?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-15278346454270229362007-02-28T16:58:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:20:16.884-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut%205:%201%20-%2022&version=31"><br /></a></p><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut%205:%201%20-%2022&amp;version=31">Deuteronomy 5: 1 - 22</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Into what groupings would you split the commandments? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is similar between the first four and the last six?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />What are the grounds for God’s right to declare what is right and wrong in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some other gods that people tend to have in our society?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some other gods you tend to struggle with in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What practical steps can you take to lay down false gods?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why are people told not to make idols? How is artistic expression different than idol worship?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What boxes to we tend to place God into in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we free our vision of God from our own misconceptions of him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How does it make sense that the punishment for idolatry goes into the future generations?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it that loving God has a longer effect than disobeying him?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why is misusing God’s name something that is a cursed action?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that people misuse God’s name today?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we avoid doing that in our lives?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God list all the people and animals he does in discussing the topic of the Sabbath? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we live this principle in our lives today? When is your time of rest during the week?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />Why is there a specific blessing tied to honoring our parents?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do you show honor to your parents in your life?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about God’s values that he specifically outlaws murder?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways that we struggle with these values other than direct personal violence?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it show us about God’s values that he outlaws adultery? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are ways people struggle with idolatry other than direct marital unfaithfulness?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does God outlaw stealing? What are ways people steal besides direct theft?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does it mean to give false testimony about something? Why would that be illegal?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are ways people break the principle of honesty besides basic perjury? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it wrong to covet what your neighbor has? What does it mean to covet something?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br />What value does this list have for Christians who live under God’s grace? Do these principles ever change? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Of which do you need to specifically repent to better reflect the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Who do you have who can help to hold you accountable in these areas?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1527834645427022936?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-50787307502294341182007-02-21T15:17:00.000-08:002007-02-21T15:19:21.574-08:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%204:1%20-%2040&version=31">Deut 4: 1 – 40</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i>Who was your best friend when you were growing up? What makes a best friend best? </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Describe God’s role in making <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> a nation. Why is Moses recounting the story of God’s action in their lives? What are ways that you have experienced God’s grace in your life? What are some things that we learn about God in this passage? What is the unique relationship that God wants to have with <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region>? What are some of the benefits of that relationship? Why does God show this kind of favor to them? What are some examples of ways God has shown you undeserved regard? </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What are the primary expectations that God details for his people in his commands? Why is worshiping idols such a dangerous thing spiritually? Why is worshiping natural phenomenon particularly tempting? What are some false objects of worship we are drawn towards in our lives today? What warnings does Moses repeat throughout the passage? Why does he continue to remind them to pay attention? What are some forms of spiritual laziness that seep into our lives? What are some things of which you need to be mindful to help ensure your spiritual help?</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Why does Moses include a description of the process of repentance in verses 25ff? Trace that process from its beginning to its conclusion? For what do you need to experience repentance in your lives today? What impact will the present generation have on the coming generations?<span style=""> </span>Why does God entrust this responsibility to that generation? How can we better instruct our children in the ways of the Lord?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5078730750229434118?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-16503334459118981612007-02-20T09:49:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:21:24.349-07:00<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Randy White, in his work <u>Encounter God in the City</u>, gives a refreshing and insightful examination of the role of urban ministry in both personal and community transformation. His style is conversational, straight-forward, and engaging, reflecting much of the context in which he is writing. What it lacks in academic finesse and rigor it regains in personality. He tells a number of personal stories, and each is easy to relate to despite his unique context. He does seem to overuse his limited access highway metaphors, though that can be forgiven in an author from California. <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">White argues that “experience that is uniquely generated by participation in transformational ministry in the city” can and should be central to both lifestyle discipleship and community development (26). He builds a unique case concerning “reflective learning” (33) and the value of both ministry involvement and introspection in the personal lives of followers of Jesus. This discipleship value of the city has long been under-represented in Christian literature, even in those writing from an urban perspective. It is certainly both novel and encouraging for him to make such a strong point concerning the value of the urban landscape in discipleship. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Unfortunately, his case seems to be a slightly exaggerated. Clearly God can and does use the city on the journey of discipleship for those he calls to minister in that context. The effectiveness of that impact is increased by the uniqueness of the environment. It should be noted, however, that any intentional change of venue can have beneficial impact on a person’s discipleship if one is open and listening to God. For example, one of the values of retreat centers is that they remove people from their routine to help them gain fresh discipleship experiences. An urban disciple may even benefit from a change of pace in the suburbs or countryside. Also, his biblical support for his arguments is at times very concerning. He falls into the occasional exegetical paralysis of those in urban ministry who read urban reality into every situation in the Scriptures (38).</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">His writing conveys his personal struggle, but it does so almost too effectively. He seems overly self-effacing, and hyper-critical of his own positions. At one point he even called himself “a wuss” (44). While honesty is very becoming in writing, there does come a point that a person needs therapy for catharsis instead of a pen. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">White’s careful definition and use of the multifaceted concept of “shalom” is both valuable and problematic (53, 126). It is very good to see someone with such a deep concern for holistic ministry towards those who are marginalized in cities. His lack of vision, however, for aggrandized or mainstream in the well being of the city is concerning. Also, by focusing as he does on social structures, he almost entirely ignores both personal compassion and the part that the poor at times play in their own situation. Someone could speculate that the book has more of a political and economic bias than the author would like to admit (67, 124). He should more fully develop what link he proposes between his social ministry and evangelization (119). Jesus’ goal for people must go beyond merely providing healthy physical systems for them to experience. The biggest problem anyone will ever face is inside of them.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Anyone who has ministered much in a city realizes the reality of systemic evil. In fact, many urban ministry books have been written on the importance of unified prayer and spiritual warfare in an urban setting. While it is possible for the theme of spiritual warfare to be overdone in an urban context, it is a curious fact that White entirely dismisses it as a potential source of the city’s problems (66). Both his analysis and suggested solutions border on humanistic secular materialism. On the other hand, his use of a three pronged analysis of a city put forth by Ben Beltran is a brilliant and pragmatic structure in which to examine the systems of a city and includes the spiritual aspect more intentionally (70). Much more discussion on urban spiritual involvement would be extremely beneficial. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Randy goes on to argue that it is important to be open to a variety of different cultures, yet keep one’s religious distinctiveness. Unfortunately, he approaches pluralism too closely when he states: “If we ignore the force of religious pluralism in the city… we will be disappointed” (107). While it is clear that the gospel needs to be communicated in different ways to different cultures, and it is true that we can work together on some common projects with those of other faiths, to push things as close as he does to religious pluralism is both concerning and dangerous. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Finally, White does give a very helpful chart concerning personal attitudes and the effect they have on ones experience of the city (139). This illustration could be utilized to provide helpful teaching for mission teams on the way to serve in urban contexts. Many of his practical ideas on urban transformation are extremely valuable suggestions for churches and ministries working in that context. He also gives some examples of dangerous practices people should avoid in urban ministry. The second half of the book is extremely pragmatic, and includes a number of evaluative questions from a variety of philosophical angles. This book can be an important resource for those planning missions into an urban area. <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;">Overall, the work did accomplish a fresh perspective on urban ministry. Unfortunately, it did so by ignoring many aspects of urban ministry that are vital and that other works treat in length. Dealing more with the spiritual aspect of the ministry in an exegetically sound way would have helped him build the bridge more clearly between his thesis of life transformation in the city and his thesis of transformational ministry in the city. Indeed, he dealt well with both sides of the equation, but did little to demonstrate how they are intrinsically related. <span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-1650333445911898161?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-54830033068775882602007-02-07T15:27:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:23:07.073-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Luke 18: 1 - 14<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is your favorite mode of communication and why?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 1 – 8.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the first story how would you imagine it would feel to be the widow? What about her role would make her particularly vulnerable in her society? Why is the judge reluctant to give justice to the widow? Why does he finally come around to vindicate her? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What comparison is Jesus drawing between prayer and the pleas of this widow?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What does Jesus teach us about God through this discussion?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why does this bring up the question of the existence faith in the end times for Jesus? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some kingdom things that you have added to your prayer list? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is your percentage of Kingdom prayers to personal prayers?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the current state of your faith? How can we improve our faith?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can we encourage one another to be praying for “God’s will to be done on earth…”?<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><i style=""><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Read verses 9 – 14. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the attitude of the Pharisee as he prays. Why is he so confident?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the prayer of the tax collector? Why is he so penitent? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is it about the prayer of the tax collector that Jesus supports over the prayer of the Pharisee? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are you proud of in your spiritual life? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">When was the last time you cried out to God for mercy? What are some things in your life right now for which you need to experience mercy?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Obviously Jesus does not want us to increase our sin so we can have this kind of prayer life. How can we become more humble in our prayers?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What are some ways as a group we can encourage one another towards humble prayer?<o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-5483003306877588260?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-89363504654768227492007-01-24T15:18:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:23:36.144-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017:%201%20-%2019&amp;version=31">Luke 17: 1 -19</a><o:p></o:p></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>When have you thought you have been treated unfairly at work?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 1 – 2.</i> Who is it that Jesus thinks deserves to be drowned? Why is Jesus so stern with this saying? What are some ways you tend to hurt or use other people in your life? How can you become a more positive influence on other disciples?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 3 – 4. </i>Describe Jesus’ standard and pattern of forgiveness. Why does he tell the disciples to “be on your guard” in this area of their lives? Think of someone you need to forgive in your life. How can you take steps towards doing that this week? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 5 – 6. </i>Why do the disciples think they need increased faith? What is Jesus saying about the nature of faith in his reply to them? Why does faith work that way? How can we have more effective faith? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read the story in verses 7 – 10. </i>The concept of slavery is obviously more distant in our culture than in theirs. What are some more contemporary images that communicate similarly what Jesus is saying in the story? Why would it be silly for slaves to expect special treatment after a normal day’s work? What are some attitudes Jesus wants his disciples to have, and what are some attitudes he expects his disciples to avoid? What needs to change in your attitude about your discipleship? How does a person go about changing their attitude? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read the experience in verses 11 – 19. </i>Imagine you are one of the men with leprosy, describe your everyday life. What emotions are going through your heart as Jesus passes by? How does Jesus go about healing them? Why do you think he heals them in this indirect kind of way? What does the Samaritan display about his character by his return to Jesus? What do the others show about themselves by not returning? Why does Jesus view this as a particularly tragic? Do you think the others remain healed from their disease? Why or why not? What are some ways Jesus has brought healing into your life? How can you better show your gratitude to him for what he has done for you? </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Why has Luke compiled all of these stories into the same narrative context? What similar themes run throughout all the pericopes? How can we help each other develop the attitudes Jesus wants his followers to have? <o:p></o:p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-8936350465476822749?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-45120077953454082362007-01-17T14:08:00.000-08:002007-01-17T14:25:08.582-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/Ra6iBv8RcHI/AAAAAAAAAAM/w9HrylJyxkQ/s1600-h/Gustave_Dore_Lazarus_and_the_Rich_Man.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_R5Ec1sNvpLA/Ra6iBv8RcHI/AAAAAAAAAAM/w9HrylJyxkQ/s320/Gustave_Dore_Lazarus_and_the_Rich_Man.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5021128785497518194" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2016:%2016%20-%2031&version=31"><span style="font-style: italic;">Luke 16:16 - 31</span></a><br /><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">When is a time you got in trouble as a kid and you knew that you deserved it?</p><div> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 16 – 18. </i>According to Jesus, what is the relationship between what we call the Old Testament and the message of the good news that he proclaims and existentially represents? Why does Jesus focus on the particular laws surrounding divorce and remarriage in his continuing debate with the religious leaders? What are some parts of God’s law that you find inconvenient? What needs to change in your life to better fit God’s expectations of people?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read dramatically verses 19 – 31. </i>Why is Jesus telling this story in the context of his argument with the religious leaders? Imagine you are Lazarus at the gate of the rich man. Describe what your life is like beyond the basic description of the story. What emotions are you dealing with? What questions are you wrestling with? How are you coping with your situation? Contrast that with the life of the rich man. What are some clues in the text we receive about his opulent lifestyle? How often do you think the rich man thought of Lazarus? Why did he not do more to help Lazarus? Who is a Lazarus in your life? What could you do to help them more?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Compare and contrast the moment of death for the two men. <span style=""> </span>What is similar and what is different? What patterns in the rich man’s life made his destiny obvious? What patterns in the poor man’s life demonstrated his destiny? What is your life showing you about your standing in eternity? Describe the experience the rich man is having in the after life. Why is he crying out for help to Abraham? What does this show us about his assumptions? What are the reasons Abraham gives for not being able to help him? What do you trust in to help you in the afterlife besides a life now transformed by God’s grace?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>When the man realizes his agony cannot be eased, what is his next desire he expresses in verses 27ff? Why does he think sending Lazarus to his home will help his brothers to believe? Why does Abraham not think this would be of any help to the man’s household? How is Abraham’s answer related to verses 16 – 18? What is Jesus saying through Abraham in the story about the relationship between his good news and the Old Testament? How can we become more aware of the eternal consequences of our decisions in this life? How can we help others realize the importance of their decisions without coming across judgmental? How open do you find yourself to God’s message? What can we do to become more open to God’s direction in our lives? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4512007795345408236?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-46517356479231582792007-01-10T12:15:00.000-08:002007-01-10T12:27:23.265-08:00<i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2016:%201%20-%2015&version=31">Luke 16: 1 - 15</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>What is the most difficult performance review you ever experienced at work or school?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 1 – 2</i>. If you were the manager how would you be feeling after this meeting? What would you try to do in this situation? How should we react as disciples when things don’t turn out as we would want them to at work?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 3 – 7</i>. Someone describe in detail the plan the manager comes up with. What are some terms that are used for this kind of plan in today’s world? What scenario could you imagine that would make his actions not dishonest or illegal? What are his motives for giving discounts to his master’s debtors?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verse 8.</i> Why in the world would the master be happy with what the manager was doing? What layers of shrewdness exist in the actions of the manager?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""></span><i style="">Read verse 9.</i> What is Jesus trying to illustrate with this story? What point is he trying to make using this shifty character as an illustration? What is Jesus not saying through this story? Is Jesus really encouraging us to use our money to buy friends? Why is Jesus encouraging people to invest in ways that improve relationships? What strategy could a person use to turn their worldly assets into eternal benefit? How is what Jesus is saying going to change how you allocate your financial resources? </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 10 – 13. </i>What does how we spend our money demonstrate about the quality of our discipleship? If Jesus were a financial advisor what would be his advice to the average investor? What do our financial habits reveal about us as persons? What needs to change in your priorities in order to better match the values Jesus is laying out in this text? </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p><i style="">Read verses 14 – 15</i>. What kind of compromises do you figure have gone on in the hearts of the religious leaders to create their sneering reaction towards Jesus’ perspective on money? What sneers do people today give towards Jesus’ perspective on money? What sneers do you find in your own heart towards Jesus’ perspective? What does Jesus’ answer reveal about his values? What are the things that are highly valued by men? What needs to change in your heart in order to value what Jesus values? <span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4651735647923158279?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-41288441252791013622007-01-01T16:50:00.000-08:002007-01-03T09:35:10.480-08:00<div align="justify">This is part of an interfaith blog dialogue on various topics <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">occurring</span> between the Protestant Christian perspective of this blog, a person writing from a <a href="http://virtualmail.avalon.net/horde/util/go.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Funknowingmind.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Finterfaith-blog-event-4-role-of-justice.html&amp;Horde=428de288c5205a4d4acc4b03a82dcbe0">Buddhist perspective</a>, and a person writing from a Pagan perspective. The topic for this discussion is: <strong>What role does justice play in the universe? </strong><br /><br />Have you ever spent much time observing toddlers and children interacting with one another? Over this past week I have had many such opportunities as we have gathered with extended family for our Christmas celebrations. One thing that you will almost inevitably face if you are responsible for keeping the peace between warring tribes of children is one of the most common statements in the world: "That's not fair!" If you are comfortable gambling you could win quite a bit on a wager that bet that <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">statement</span> would be made at least once ever 10 minutes between children who are playing. The question of course is, what do they really mean by that <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">statement</span>.<br /><br />No doubt children when they claim something is not fair are saying more than "that did not turn out how I wanted it to" or "I am displeased with that outcome." They are claiming, without even understanding at all what they are saying, that by some objective standard their position is in the right and their friend or cousin is in the wrong. They are claiming, with out the sophistication to say so, that there has been some kind of crime against Justice by the fact that the other child swiped the toy they were <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">playing</span> with out of their hands. They want to see Justice fulfilled though they are too young to know for what they are actually asking.<br /><br />We can all readily see injustice in the world. The wealthy person who uses their wealth to oppress others and gain more wealth. The court case that let a person who was obviously guilty avoid punishment (and no, I have no specific case in mind, but I am sure there are a billion from which to pick). A person who seems to have a <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ridiculous</span> string of "bad luck" that damages every aspect of their life and relationships. Yes, it is very easy to see injustice in the world, what is very difficult is to admit the injustice we do to others. Though, in fairness to ourselves, I would guess in our moments of honesty we can even see that we ourselves at times are not fair towards others.<br /><br />Atheist philosophers often use the concept of injustice to raise a specter of doubt upon the <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">existence</span> of an all-good, all-powerful God. But, Christian philosophers actually began working on this question long before the atheist's did, and in fact the biblical writers actually hint that the fact of injustice in the world may be a compelling argument for the <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">existence</span> of that very God the atheist's question. Let me briefly trace that argument [for a full logical defense of this position, read C.S. Lewis <em>Mere Christianity]</em>:<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">There is simply no clear reason in a purely <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Darwinian</span> world why the concept of justice would even arise at all. Natural selection by its very definition insists that "might makes right." Social constructs must come from societies. Societies are run by those in power. Why would those in power construct a natural check on their own power? Indeed toddlers amazingly know how to challenge the justice of their parents long before parents do much in teaching them what justice involves. So if nature does not give us a concept of justice and other people cannot directly and entirely support this concept of justice where does it come from? What or indeed Who would have the authority to define what justice is by the sheer fact of His character? The answer that Christian <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">philosophers</span> give is:<em>"Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are your ways, King of the nations!" [<span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">NIV</span> Revelation 15:3b]<br /><br /></em></div><div align="justify"><em></em> </div><div align="justify">We may be able to ask questions about God's justice, but ultimately if He were not just there simply would be not adequate philosophical root for that concept. Indeed, By attempting to stain God's justice through atheist philosophy, we burn the bridge we are walking upon. In the end we remove the only grounds we have for expecting justice.<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Ultimately, Christians have three separate simultaneous perspectives on justice. First, Justice was ultimately fulfilled upon Jesus on the cross, so that those who trust in him are "justified." Second, we strive by the power of the Holy Spirit to live as justly as we can in this world. Third, we look forward to the coming Kingdom, when God will fulfill the promise that Justice makes through the enactment of judgment. </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-4128844125279101362?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1166564820914650752006-12-19T13:22:00.000-08:002006-12-20T12:01:30.188-08:00<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(Picture of the hillsides around Bethlehem in March)</span> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/8011/3304/1600/630572/slide3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/8011/3304/320/143949/slide3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div><br />Holidays in our culture often seem to miss the point. Why do we celebrate our thanks by eating a lot of turkey and watching football? Why do we celebrate romantic love with chocolate? Why do we celebrate the joy of working by taking a day off? Most importantly in this current season why do we celebrate a homeless preacher's birthday who spent his life declaring "good news to the poor" by giving those close to us expensive gifts. If any holiday should not be materialistic Christmas should be that holiday. It seems as if the holiday has been captured by marketing experts.<br /><br />Indeed, Jesus probably was not born in the month of December at all. To the frustration of my brother who was born on December 25th, I always remind him that my birthday April 2 was probably closer to Jesus' actual date of birth. This is based on what we find the shepherds doing in the account of the Nativity recorded in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament. Early Christians preempted this date to help their recent converts not revert back to paganism in celebrating the holidays around the winter solstice. Indeed, a good work of missiology, but not terribly historically accurate.<br /><br />Perhaps now that the marketing experts have taken the "holidays" back from us it would be a good time for us as followers of Jesus to pick a new date (sometime in late March or early April) to celebrate Jesus' birthday that would be closer to the historical reality, and further from the consumerist pollution of the date. Better yet, perhaps it would be important for us to find new more meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas and seize the holiday back from the marketing experts. Let me suggest this as one idea: Jesus, the "Bread of Life" was born in "the House of Bread" Bethlehem in a feeding trough. Perhaps we could celebrate his birthday best by giving a gift to him on his birthday (fancy that thought) and helping feed someone who is hungry. After all he says: <span style="font-style: italic;">(NIV Matthew 25:40) 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'</span><br /><br />Here are some organizations you could donate towards or volunteer at to help those in need as a birthday gift for Jesus: <a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn.nsf/vw-dynamic-arrays/85256DDC007274DF80256B80003C15BB?openDocument">Salvation Army</a>, <a href="http://www.chicagolandcc.org/community.htm">Chicagoland Community Church (my church)</a>, <a href="http://www.feedthechildren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=dotorg_homepage">Feed the Children</a>, <a href="http://resources.imb.org/index.cfm/fa/donation.worldhunger.cfm">World Hunger and Relief Funds</a>, etc. Obviously, there are many other options. The important thing is to find an organization you trust and give generously towards those who are in need. Better yet, get to know someone in need yourself and find ways to directly bless them. Either way, make sure to add Jesus to your Christmas giving list, after all, it is his birthday.<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116656482091465075?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1166043160312655642006-12-13T12:43:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:25:33.706-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/8011/3304/1600/829447/ReturnOfTheProdigalSon-Batoni.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/8011/3304/320/686094/ReturnOfTheProdigalSon-Batoni.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><i style=""><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2015:11%20-%2032;&version=31;">Luke 15: 11 - 32</a><o:p></o:p></i> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><o:p> </o:p>This extremely popular story of Jesus’ is set in the daily life of Palestinian Jews in the first century. Generations of Christian artists have produce works depicting this story in music (check out "Growing Young" in <a href="http://www.kidbrothers.net/">Rich Mullins website</a>)or on canvas. Younger sons could expect to inherit half of what the eldest son would inherit from the father. More often than not, however, those interpreting this passage miss including one of the major characters in their explanation. We will look at them each, and study the passage in its context, to best understand how to apply the principles Jesus is teaching in these stories to our lives. Please join the conversation through comments. <span style=""> </span></i><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">When is a time in your life you most felt like you were heading home? <span style=""> </span>Develop for me the character of the younger son in the story. Why does the younger son leave his home in the first place? What causes him to go through such a radical personal transformation? What transformation do you need in your life? What circumstances, memories, and experiences in your life are being used to guide you towards repentance?<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">What do we discover about the father throughout this story? What phrases or scenes in particular reveal the father’s worldview? Why is the father so generous with the younger son when he returns? What is Jesus saying about his Father in this description? Spend some time thanking God for the mercy he demonstrates to those who have made bad choices in their lives.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">How would you describe the older son in the story? Why is he so concerned about the mercy his father is showing to the younger son? What evidence demonstrates his concerns are either legitimate or ill-conceived? How well do his arguments resonate with your own attitudes and perspectives? Describe the answer his father gives him. Do you think he finally goes into the party, Why? <span style=""> </span>How can we as Christians become less judgmental of those who are coming to God for mercy?<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Compare and contrast this story with the stories from last week. How do the characters in the story parallel those involved in Jesus’ ministry? How can we be sure we respond to God more in a spirit of humble repentance than with an attitude of haughty superiority? </p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116604316031265564?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1165446815398563222006-12-06T15:11:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:25:50.851-07:00<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2015:1-10;&version=31;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Luke 15:1-10</span></span></a><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">When is a time that you lost something that was very important to you? What did you do?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Describe the attitude the religious are having towards Jesus’ relationships with those who are undesirable? Why are they so put off by Jesus’ relationships with that type of people? How can we make sure we don’t become spiritually jealous? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the first story Jesus tells, how would it feel to have been a shepherd missing a sheep? What risks are inherent in leaving the 99 alone in open country? Why would the shepherd be willing to accept those risks in order to help and individual sheep?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the second story, imagine you are the woman missing an important coin. Describe the process you would take to try to find the coin in your home. Why might it be so important for this woman to find this coin? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Compare the responses the people have in the two stories when they find what is lost. Why such levity? Why is it so vital for them to include others in on the celebration? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What connection does Jesus draw between the celebrations in his story and celebrations in heaven? What really makes heaven party? Why does heaven celebrate the repentance of a sinner? How does this answer the criticism them religious leaders are leveling against him? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What efforts are you taking to seek those who need God in their lives? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What could we do more as a group to bring the gospel to those folks who people would not expect to believe? </p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do you celebrate the deliverance Jesus has given you in your life? What should we do as a group to celebrate when people come to know Jesus? Why should we celebrate salvation?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116544681539856322?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1165265686824386562006-12-04T12:52:00.000-08:002006-12-04T12:56:32.723-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.christian-bloggers.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/8011/3304/320/565245/christianbloggers.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116526568682438656?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1164911324176506802006-11-30T10:27:00.000-08:002006-11-30T10:28:44.186-08:00<a href="http://www.technorati.com/claim/vnrh54zvb" rel="me">Technorati Profile</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116491132417650680?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1164827385908495312006-11-29T11:06:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:26:20.509-07:00<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">These are continuing discussion questions from our Wednesday night C3 Context Group. Please join in on the conversation through the comment capacity on this blog!</span><br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Why does Jesus state the seemingly ridiculous and impossible demands of verses 26 -27 when he has a large crowd that is coming after him? What does Jesus mean by hating those who are close to us? <span style=""> </span>Who or what are some things in your life you tend to value more than the Kingdom?</p><p class="MsoNormal"> What would it have meant to the first hearers to hear they should carry their cross? What does it really mean to follow Jesus? Why are we uncomfortable with the idea?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Compare the two little stories Jesus tells as examples in verses 28 – 32. How would each character feel at the end of their story? What would be some contemporary illustrations of the principle Jesus is teaching? What are the costs of being a disciple of Jesus? How do you “give up everything” to Jesus? What are some things that you need to surrender to him in order to better follow him?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">How are these statements Jesus is making parallel to the earlier banquet story?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">We know NaCl does not break down. Is Jesus a bad chemist, or how does salt degenerate? Compare and contrast a useful disciple and a non-useful disciple. How mixed is your time and priorities? How can you simplify your life to be more useful?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116482738590849531?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1163900902858111712006-11-18T17:47:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:26:42.657-07:00<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2014:%2015%20-%2035&version=31"><span style="font-style: italic;">Luke 14: 15 - 35</span></a><br /><br />What is the most costly event you have ever attended?<br /><br />What does the exclamation of the man in verse 15 show us about the crowd at the house? Why do you think Jesus decides to tell another banquet story in this setting? Compare the different excuses people give for not being able to attend the banquet. Why is the owner of the house so upset about people not attending? Why does the owner decide to invite random hurting people from the community? For what reasons do the hurting people come and attend the banquet? Who does Jesus consider to be the first people invited to the banquet of the Kingdom? Who does Jesus consider to be the hurting people who end up taking part? How can we make sure we do not suffer the fate of exclusion the first people faced? Who do we need to invite to the Kingdom banquet who might be surprised they are invited? How are you going to go about making that invitation this week?<br /><br />To be continued….<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116390090285811171?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1163636884796663362006-11-15T16:27:00.000-08:002007-03-21T12:24:14.981-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >This article is representing a protestant Christian perspective as part of an interfaith dialogue discussing the question: </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >Within your religious traditions, what rituals and/or traditions give you a sense of connection to your fellow congregants, beliefs, and communities? What actions do you take to ensure the stability of those connections? Do you feel that the connections that have been made are sufficient for your spiritual and/or religious needs?</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Other perspectives from different faiths are presented by <a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2006/11/interfaith-blog-event-3-religious.html">Unknowing Mind (Buddhist)</a> and <a href="http://virtualmail.avalon.net/horde/util/go.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpagansojourn.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F11%2Finterfaith-blog-event-3-connections.html&Horde=1b1ff2244e885a2128a0223295205817">Sojourner (Pagan)</a></span><br /><br />Jesus loved to party. That may come as a surprise to some who have well designed preconceptions of the Master's demeanor and habits based on some of the attitudes some of his followers display sometimes, but especially as his life is recorded in the Gospel of Luke Jesus always seems to have a leg of lamb in one hand and some fruit of the vine in the other. Clearly, he was not a glutton or a drunk, but his reputation for enjoying a good time proceeded him, and was often exaggerated in the process. The simple fact is that Jesus valued relationship. He loved people, and he loved all kinds of people. He could be found hanging out with religious elites, and prostitutes, and oppressive IRS-type agents, and union-type fishermen, and rich dudes, and the terminally ill (though he often changed that), and the poor, and Roman soldiers, etc...<br /><br />Because of that it is highly apropos and rather touching that the central ritual of the Christian faith, and by that I can confidently say all branches of the Christian faith, though how they interpret the celebration varies greatly, is the Lord's Table. This event goes by many names in the Christian community: Eucharist, Communion, the Lord's Supper, a Love Feast, etc. I will not go into details on the specifics of how any particular tradition practices the event. First, that would be a very daunting process and take a long time for you to read, but second, out of respect for the individual traditions it is important that people experience the Lord's Supper as disciples of Jesus or observe it as seekers rather than merely hearing it described "objectively". I suppose this my respecting the ancient Christian tradition of the "discipline of the secret." On top of that, I do not wish to bore you with comparisons of different "substantiation" theological theories, though if you know the debates and observe my terminology you could probably construct the fact that I view the Supper as a powerful symbol of a discipling community's relationship with Jesus.<br /><br />There are a number of things that are taught directly through the celebration of the Supper, however, that are helpful in answering the question at hand. First, the Supper is an act of Thanksgiving to God for his provision of forgiveness and relationship in the death and resurrection of Jesus. Second, the Supper recognizes the unity of common love that followers of Jesus (both globally and historically) share because of our common experience of deliverance. Third, the Supper memorializes what Jesus did on the cross in a very existential, kinesthetic, and timeless kind of way. Fourth, the Supper is an act of hope awaiting the wonderful things that Jesus will do in the future. Fifth, the Supper recognizes the daily provision of grace to meet our spiritual needs that Jesus offers. Sixth, it is an opportunity for disciples to practice a time of introspection and ensure that their relationships with Jesus and each other are healthy. Seventh, if done in conjunction with a more complete meal the Supper can actually be an opportunity to build relationships with other people who are Jesus followers. Eighth, the Supper reminds us of our historical connections to God's people in ancient Israel (the Supper was first celebrated during a Passover meal), Finally, non-Christian seekers who are observing at a Supper event receive a clear visual and auditory proclamation of the message and acts of Jesus.<br /><br />Of all of the different faith acts that Christians do, the Supper is probably the most meaningful in accomplishing simultaneously all the different goals mentioned in the question. Because it is practiced by the actual local gathering of disciples and not merely by an individual it reflects the Christian focus on the whole person including their relationships. It undoubtedly helps connect with other disciples, reinforces Christian teachings, and can renew a focus on serving the world. Because the Supper is taken frequently (how frequently varies by tradition and individual church) the lessons that it teaches are confirmed and established perpetually in the lives of disciples.<br /><br />As for the sufficiency aspect mentioned in the question, clearly all Christian faith acts are more than sufficient from God's part of the equation (obviously, that is the whole point of grace), but the question comes down to the attitude of the individual disciple. It should be noted, that rituals in and of themselves accomplish absolutely nothing of spiritual value. An Christian act such as the Supper, that is done with an attitude of trust (faith), however, can have a highly meaningful impact on the life of the person who is experiencing it. I know that because I have experienced that before myself, and many fellow disciples share that same experience.<br /><br />I apologize for an overabundance of technical jargon in this blog entry. That is, however, part of the nature of dealing with a topic of this detail. Thank you for a very good question! I look forward to the dialog that will follow in the comment section. I hope some day (either in this age or the next) to celebrate the Supper with any of you who are or become followers of Jesus. For those of you who do not yet know him, we would be happy to share a meal now with you as well, I share my Master's fondness for dining!<br /><br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the same way after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." [NIV 1Corinthians 11: 23 - 36, the words of the Apostle Paul c.60AD]</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116363688479666336?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1161102152398453262006-10-17T08:24:00.000-07:002007-03-21T12:25:07.064-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em></em></strong><span style="font-family:Georgia;">This article is representing a protestant Christian perspective as part of an interfaith dialogue discussing the question: </span><strong><em>Is there anything that you consider to be intrinsically right or intrinsically wrong? What grounds do you have for coming to that conclusion? How does the concept of morality impact your everyday life?</em></strong><span style="font-family:Georgia;"> Other perspectives from different faiths are presented by <a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2006/10/interfaith-blog-event-2-ethics.html">Unknowing Mind (Buddhist)</a> and <a href="http://pagansojourn.blogspot.com/2006/10/interfaith-blog-event-2-ethics.html">Sojourner (Pagan)</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">C. S. Lewis, in his work "Mere Christianity," argues that humans live under a kind of natural law. That when we tell someone that they are wrong we mean something more profound than mere aesthetic decisions. For example, if you tell a friend that they were wrong for lying to you, you mean more than if you say, "I like chocolate ice cream" or "the color red is the best." That may be hard for us to understand in a culture that insists on the relativism of all ethics, but even in our culture there are still things that are seen to be indefensible. Most people would agree with the statement "It is always wrong to be intolerant." But, if you press people as to WHY that statement is wrong they will say something vague about the "common good" or "peace and harmony" but they have no real ground for their ethical claim. Lewis point out that while we may disagree on the specific content of our moral law, we all claim a moral law nonetheless. That begs the question: what possibly could be suitable grounds for a moral law? </span><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Clearly our perspectives on this law can be different, we can disagree or even warp ourselves into thinking that something wrong is actually right, but in the end we all assume in our use of language that there really is a right or wrong somewhere out there in the objective world.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">This actually leads us to a very interesting argument: If there is an internal moral law that requires a legislature bigger than ourselves (otherwise it is merely an aesthetic choice). If we are to hold society and nations to the same standard of justice, we are therefore looking to a lawgiver bigger than societies and nations. Natural selection could not account for the arising of a moral law, indeed, often it would seem a person or society much more survivable without a sense of morality. In fact, if we are honest with ourselves we all seem to be in a bit of a paradox (that Lewis also points out), we often do things that are natural to us, but that we know by our internal law that they are wrong. This draws us deductively towards the conclusion which the ancient Hebrews were given:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style="font-style: italic;">And God spoke all these words: "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. "</span></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:Georgia;" >[1] <span style="font-weight: bold;">You shall have no other gods before me</span>. [2]</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:Georgia;" > "You</span><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> shall not make for yourself an idol </span><span style="font-style: italic;">.... [3] "</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God</span><span style="font-style: italic;">, .... [4] "</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy</span><span style="font-style: italic;">.... [5] </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"Honor your father and your mother,</span><span style="font-style: italic;">... [6]</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"You shall not murder.</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> [7] </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"You shall not commit adultery.</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> [8] </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"You shall not steal.</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> [9] "</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> [10] </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"You shall not covet your neighbor's house.</span><span style="font-style: italic;">... [excerpts from NIV Exodus 20: 1 - 17]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">An old mentor of mine once said that God did not give us his law to "rain on our parade." God gave us his law because it simply is the best way for us to live. Rob Bell, in his work "Velvet Elvis," discusses the law of God in these kinds of terms as well. Think about it, don't God's values make the most sense Being careful of what we say about and attribute to God is very wise. Taking a break each week to refocus is extremely healthy. Treating your parents with honor confirms your own existance. Respecting human life is obviously important. Placing value on the relationship of marriage is the only way to make a marriage work. Being honest is particularly important when in a court of law. It is a rotten way to live always wishing you had someone else's life, or trying to take someone else's stuff. These things are not rocket-science, but they are shockingly difficult to incorporate into life no matter how intuitive they are. Perhaps that is why the ancient sage said:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;"> </span><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. [NIV Psalm 19:7-11]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Now Plato raised the question (he actually attributed it to Socrates), How can God be declared good and at the same time be the one who is defining good. While this is a very clever logical riddle (much like Xeno's paradox), indeed it is impossible to imagine how it could be otherwise. What does the law say about God? Parents who give their children good rules show that they care about their children, and ultimately, show that they are (at least to some degree) good and wise people. Christianity, however, offers an even deeper and more profound answer to that riddle. Jesus summarizes the law in the following way:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." [NIV Matthew 22: 36 - 40]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Indeed, at the core of all the commandments is God's primary value: sacrificial love in relationship. The Christian doctrine of God insists that he is a Trinity. That means the Father loved the Son loved the Spirit in perfect relationship for all of eternity. If that is the case, than the law which God commands for us to follow is an extrapolation on who he is by nature. Therefore, his good law is based upon his good nature. The ground for Christian ethics lies in the nature of God. He is good in that he always remains faithful to his loving nature, and his law is consistant with that nature.</span><br /><span class="on" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_JustifyFull" title="Justify Full" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 13);ButtonMouseDown(this);"><img src="http://www2.blogger.com/img/gl.align.full.gif" alt="Justify Full" border="0" /></span><span style="font-family:Georgia;">As a follower of Jesus, God's law effects me in two ways. First, it shows me the areas in my life where I am in need of the forgiveness that Jesus offers. It demonstrates to me the things that I have done wrong, and gives me to opportunity to receive God's grace. Second, as the Holy Spirit works in my life I more and more begin to value the the things that God values. He slowly transforms the Christian's life into one that better reflects the things God finds important. As </span><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia;">He does that I find more and more the truth of how truly beneficial His law is.</span><br /></div> <span style="font-family:Georgia;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style=""></span></span><strong><em></em></strong><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-116110215239845326?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1159398214336073372006-09-27T15:38:00.000-07:002006-09-27T16:03:34.350-07:00In my recent blogging discussions on various other blogs people asked for what I mean by congenial exclusivism. Ultimately, I argue that Jesus offers things that no other religious system offers, and that you can only get those things through a trust relationship with Jesus. Some of those benefits are eternal in scope (the age to come) and some of them are temporal (relating to this age).<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">NIV Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.</span><br /><br />That of course leaves open to discussion what Salvation entails. I will do my best to detail some of what that rich theological term implies. Here are some of the benefits that I can enumerate off of the top of my head, in no particular order:<br /><br />1) Jesus allows us to remain individual persons and yet have a communal relationship with God and others who have that relatinship with him.<br />2) Jesus takes the real concepts of evil, injustice, sin, etc. seriously yet offers an opportunity for us to receive true, absolute, and unlimited forgiveness. That by the way, makes a relationship with the holy God possible. He accomplished this by paying the penalty for our sin himself on the cross.<br />3) Jesus understands the fallness of human nature (much worse than elves chasing Fenor's jewels for those of you who are geeks) yet offers the opportunity to actually change human nature through the power of his Holy Spirit.<br />4) Jesus grounds his ethical expectations of us soundly on the biblical concept of love, yet perfectly demonstrates what God's love is truly about through his own actions on our behalf .<br /><br />C.S. Lewis and other Christian thinkers have long argued that these are some of the truly unique aspects of mere Christianity. To receive these things means to experience eternal life (starting in this age and going into the next), and to not receive these things means to experience eternal judgement (starting in this age and going into the next). These are offered to everyone because of God's grace and his sincere love, even though we certainly do not deserve them. No one, however, is forced to receive these things, that is their choice to be made in this age of this temporal world.<br /><br />Each of these indeed deserve a blog article of their own, and probably will receive them in the months to come. Also I am sure I will think of others and continue to add them as they come to mind.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-115939821433607337?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1158546732475877792006-09-17T19:30:00.000-07:002007-03-21T12:27:18.594-07:00I was a guest blogger for my buddhist friend Mike. Check out my article at <a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2006/09/religious-diversity_115854603028174439.html">Unknowing Mind</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-115854673247587779?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30754818.post-1158165583770262362006-09-13T09:37:00.000-07:002007-03-21T12:28:01.064-07:00<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Georgia;">This article is representing a protestant Christian perspective as part of an interfaith dialogue discussing the question: "How do you view karma, the thought that your actions in some way determine your experience, in your spiritual path?" Other perspectives from different faiths are presented by <a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2006/09/interfaith-blog-event-1-karma.html">Unknowing Mind (Buddhist)</a> and <a href="http://pagansojourn.blogspot.com/2006/09/interfaith-blog-event-1-karma.html">Sojourner (Pagan)</a></span><a href="http://unknowingmind.blogspot.com/2006/09/interfaith-blog-event-1-karma.html"><br /></a><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style=""></span><br />The concept of Karma seems to have saturated contemporary American culture. Earl has merged the concept with redneck mores, and in misleading billboards insurance companies mangle the concept beyond recognition. Perhaps this is betraying an underlying desire or expectation for justice in our culture. As a Christian scholar I do not consider myself an expert on this topic of karma. But given the infinite spiritual scope of the Book in which I do claim some kind of expertise, an interesting question arises: What, if anything, do the Christian Scriptures say about this concept of karma? I should also make one additional disclaimer: much of what I am about to express has been shaped by various professors and commentaries that I have studied. Clearly this is not a strictly academic piece or I would attempt to cite those sources, but we are all indebted to those who have taught us.<br /><br />For a moment, picture yourself in the ancient near-east. You are an Israelite, your world revolves around the challenges of ancient agriculture, the realities of ancient local politics, and the glimmer of hope you glean from your tri-annual journeys in festival to YHWH. For you the known world ends with the Philistines to your west, the Egyptians to the south, the Mesopotamians to your "north" and the mysterious desert to your east. The "wild - west" of the Israelites was across the </span><st1:place><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Jordan River</span></st1:place><span style="font-family:Georgia;"> to the east, and beyond was the world of the rising sun. I took us on this brief journey into this alien world simply so we could get our minds around one concept: for the Israelites wisdom was nearly synonymous with the east.<br /><br />It does not surprise me to find parallels in ancient Israelite wisdom literature and some of the teachings that arise in the </span><st1:place><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Far East</span></st1:place><span style="font-family:Georgia;">. There is particularly a strong parallel between the eastern concept of karma and the concept from biblical principle that "you reap what you sow." Though perhaps more interesting are the bounds and limits that the Scriptures place around these teachings of wisdom. Most interesting of all are the exceptions the Scriptures give to these general principles of wisdom, and the critique those exceptions bring to the concept of karma.<br /><br /><b>Parallels between Karma and Wisdom</b><br /><br />A brief caveat should be made at this point. While I will demonstrate some parallels between the concept of Karma and biblical wisdom, they are not identical in their scope or definition. The Scriptures are deeply concerned about ethical and moral goodness and badness. These principles are defined by theological terms: wickedness and righteousness. Righteousness means to be relationally faithful to the agreements one makes, whether with God or with other people. Wickedness means the opposite: to be crooked in how one relates with other people and God.<br /><br />Biblical wisdom points out the truth that the world was originally created to be good to those who are righteous (bless them) and to be bad to those who are wicked (curse them). This was to occur not in a context of reincarnation, since the Scriptures never mention that concept, instead focusing on the miracle of resurrection, but primarily it was to be experienced in this life and by one's descendents.<br /><br />There are many examples of this principle in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. Here are two brief passages that are demonstrative of the genre:<br /><i>Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. <o:p></o:p></i></span></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family:Georgia;">[NIV Psalm 32:10]</span></i><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><br /><i>The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short. The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing. The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil. The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land. [NIV Proverbs 10: 27 - 30]</i><br /><br />This principle can even be seen in the New Testament writings of the Apostle Paul:<br /><i>Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. [NIV Gal 6: 7 - 9]<o:p></o:p></i></span></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><o:p></o:p>Thus, the Bible teaches that in general those who do bad things gain bad consequences in this life, and those who do good things gain good consequences in this life. God created the world originally with that basic design in mind. <span style=""> </span></span><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><br /><b><br />Biblical Limits on Wisdom Literature</b><br /><br />While biblical wisdom literature does imply that the righteous will be blessed and the wicked will be cursed, there are limits to that principle. The Scriptures recognize that we live in a fallen and broken world. Our evil impacts the suffering of others, and sometimes in this temporal existence, there is no clear explanation for why a particular kind of suffering exists. We have polluted the moral world system God originally created, and at times in this world injustice seems to at least temporarily flourish. The Bible reserves much of the ultimate blessing and cursing individuals receive for the eternal realm of the resurrection.<br /><br />In the biblical story of Job we find a man who is caught up in horrific circumstances that happen to him primarily because of a kind of cosmic wager going on in heaven. His friends try to quote to him the contemporary wisdom. Perhaps his unrighteousness is coming back to get him? But Job holds to his integrity, refusing to acquiesce to primary culpability in his current situation. While not a perfect man, he asserts that he has done nothing that would merit the kind of suffering he is now facing. In the end, God confirms his perspective and disagrees with Job's friends: <i>"My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly. You have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has." [NIV Job 42:8]</i><br /><br />Jesus obviously is the example of the righteous sufferer par-excellence. In the book of Isaiah it reads: <i>He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. [NIV Isaiah 53:9] </i>This Old Testament passage was taken as a prophetic foretelling concerning Jesus by many of the early Christian writers. Jesus' unjust death being executed through the cruel Roman method of crucifixion clearly was not something that he personally deserved as the concept of karma would imply. Religious leaders involved in his execution used contemporary wisdom to mock him: </span><i style=""><span style="font-family:Georgia;">"He saved others," they said, "but he can't save himself! He's the King of </span></i><st1:country-region><st1:place><i style=""><span style="font-family:Georgia;">Israel</span></i></st1:place></st1:country-region><i style=""><span style="font-family:Georgia;">! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. ^{<span style=""> </span>}He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" </span></i><span style="font-family:Georgia;">[NIV Matthew 27: 42-43]<i style=""> </i>The resurrection of Jesus from the dead clearly demonstrates that God was vindicating him. God proved by bringing Jesus back from the dead that the suffering Jesus faced was not due to any moral defect (which in fact, Jesus had none) but instead was on the behalf of others. In that amazing act God clearly traced the limits of wisdom and outlined the border of grace. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span><b><span style="font-family:Georgia;">A Brief Philosophical Critique of the Concept of Karma<br /><br /></span></b><span style="font-family:Georgia;">In the end, the unique biblical concept of grace runs counter stream to most wisdom, especially any sense of karma.<b> </b>Perhaps that is why the apostle Paul states in reference to the crucifixion of Jesus: <i>"For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? .... For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.' [1Cor </i></span><st1:time minute="19" hour="13"><i><span style="font-family:Georgia;">1:19</span></i></st1:time><i><span style="font-family:Georgia;"> - 25]</span></i><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><br /><br />Indeed, that is the most amazing aspect of the good news about Jesus. Because of Jesus' death we can receive forgiveness for our bad choices. We can thereby avoid the ultimate and eternal negative results of our negative actions simply by accepting that Jesus took those results upon himself for us. This does not mean that we never face any consequences for our behavior in this life, but it does mean that the worst of possible consequences, a destroyed relationship with God, can be avoided by anyone who places their trust in Jesus. Thus, the costly bill of our unrighteousness, injustice, hate, and evil has been paid by Jesus in his death. This reversal of "karma," or rather this folly of pure love is available to anyone who will trust in Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/30754818-115816558377026236?l=jesusfollowersjournal.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Pastor Jonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17453759295391553973noreply@blogger.com5