Who is your worst enemy in the whole world, and why are they your enemy?
What makes a person an enemy of God according to this text?
Why does sin create this kind of rift in a relationship with God?
What are some ways that you have acted like God’s enemy this past week?
Why is it so easy for us to lapse into those kinds of negative behaviors?
According to this text what has God done in order to bring this church back into right relationship with God?
How does the death of Jesus on the cross deal with the problem of our evil behavior?
What are some changes that God desires to make in your attitudes, values, and actions based on what Jesus’ death?
What role do we play as individuals in this relationship with God?
Why are we expected to continue trusting him in order to experience this relationship with him?
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?
What does it mean to be a person who is a servant of the good news of Jesus?
Why does Paul wear that title like a badge of honor when talking with this and other churches?
How could you function more as a servant of the good news of Jesus this week among your friends?
Showing posts with label Bible Study Discussion Questions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bible Study Discussion Questions. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Discovering things that are worth more than money
Luke 16: 13, 16 – 17
Make a list of 10 things that have more value to you personally than cash.
Memorize verse 13.
If a person has two equal bosses what is likely to happen in their career?
What are some ways that money can act like a master in a person's life?
What are some steps a person can take to ensure finances are not gaining too much of a hold on their values and motives?
How have financial concerns cracked the whip in your life recently?
What are you going to do this week to gain the kind of freedom Jesus is discussing in this text.
Read verses 16 – 17.
Describe Jesus' view of history as he describes it in this passage.
What does Jesus consider to be his role in this tale of salvation history?
What is Jesus' view towards the Old Testament Scriptures?
Why does Jesus have such a high view of the Old Testament?
How should your view of the Scriptures change based on Jesus' endorsement?
Why does God demand such absolute loyalty towards him and his Kingdom?
What does God's law say about the place financial resources should have in our lives?
What role should God's law play in the life of a disciple of Jesus?
Make a list of 10 things that have more value to you personally than cash.
Memorize verse 13.
If a person has two equal bosses what is likely to happen in their career?
What are some ways that money can act like a master in a person's life?
What are some steps a person can take to ensure finances are not gaining too much of a hold on their values and motives?
How have financial concerns cracked the whip in your life recently?
What are you going to do this week to gain the kind of freedom Jesus is discussing in this text.
Read verses 16 – 17.
Describe Jesus' view of history as he describes it in this passage.
What does Jesus consider to be his role in this tale of salvation history?
What is Jesus' view towards the Old Testament Scriptures?
Why does Jesus have such a high view of the Old Testament?
How should your view of the Scriptures change based on Jesus' endorsement?
Why does God demand such absolute loyalty towards him and his Kingdom?
What does God's law say about the place financial resources should have in our lives?
What role should God's law play in the life of a disciple of Jesus?
Setting the Correct Priorities in Life
Setting the correct priorities in life
Luke 14: 5, 16 - 23, 26 - 27, 34 – 35
Based upon your bills and your calendar, what are your most significant priorities?
Memorize verse 5.
Describe the context of this verse in Luke's recounting of the gospel story.
Based on this verse what is Jesus' perspective on the Sabbath day?
What kinds of exceptions would Jesus make in our contemporary society for breaking a day of rest?
What is your day of rest? How closely do you protect having that time?
Read verses 16 – 23.
Trace your range of emotions as you are the servant trying to invite people to this particular party.
Into what categories would you place the different excuses that the invited guests give to the servant.
What would you assume is the real reason that they are not going to this banquet?
Why does the master choose to fill his party with the riffraff from the city streets and the highway rest-stops?
What excuses do you give in your daily life to avoid spending quality time with God?
How can a person become more likely to include devotional time in their lives?
Read verses 26 – 27.
What argument might you give to avoid having to live out Jesus' teaching here?
What does Jesus mean by his hyperbolic statement that we are to hate our loved ones?
What stigma would carrying an execution implement have for people during Jesus' time?
What does it really mean to carry a cross in following Jesus?
What are some ways that following Jesus has broken you and your family?
How can we become more open to the severe kind of love Jesus brings into our lives?
Read verses 34 – 35.
What are some of the many uses for salt that makes it such a valuable commodity?
How does salt go about losing its salty qualities?
How is salt an accurate illustration of the lives of followers of Jesus?
What are some ways that God wants to use you to season and preserve this community?
What are some things that threaten to mix into your life and neutralize your effectiveness as a representative of Jesus?
How does a person go about keeping their lives pure in a messy world?
Luke 14: 5, 16 - 23, 26 - 27, 34 – 35
Based upon your bills and your calendar, what are your most significant priorities?
Memorize verse 5.
Describe the context of this verse in Luke's recounting of the gospel story.
Based on this verse what is Jesus' perspective on the Sabbath day?
What kinds of exceptions would Jesus make in our contemporary society for breaking a day of rest?
What is your day of rest? How closely do you protect having that time?
Read verses 16 – 23.
Trace your range of emotions as you are the servant trying to invite people to this particular party.
Into what categories would you place the different excuses that the invited guests give to the servant.
What would you assume is the real reason that they are not going to this banquet?
Why does the master choose to fill his party with the riffraff from the city streets and the highway rest-stops?
What excuses do you give in your daily life to avoid spending quality time with God?
How can a person become more likely to include devotional time in their lives?
Read verses 26 – 27.
What argument might you give to avoid having to live out Jesus' teaching here?
What does Jesus mean by his hyperbolic statement that we are to hate our loved ones?
What stigma would carrying an execution implement have for people during Jesus' time?
What does it really mean to carry a cross in following Jesus?
What are some ways that following Jesus has broken you and your family?
How can we become more open to the severe kind of love Jesus brings into our lives?
Read verses 34 – 35.
What are some of the many uses for salt that makes it such a valuable commodity?
How does salt go about losing its salty qualities?
How is salt an accurate illustration of the lives of followers of Jesus?
What are some ways that God wants to use you to season and preserve this community?
What are some things that threaten to mix into your life and neutralize your effectiveness as a representative of Jesus?
How does a person go about keeping their lives pure in a messy world?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Overcoming our fear of commitment
Luke 12: 2 - 12, 22 - 31, 33 - 34, 39 - 40, 42 - 46, 51 - 53, 57 – 59
What would you say are the most important changes that need to happen in this city?
Read verses 2 – 12.
Why does Jesus start this talk by reminding people that their hidden thoughts will be brought to light?
What does it mean to fear God? What is it about God that makes him worthy of our trust and respect?
Describe the kind of loyalty that God expects from his people.
Why is it considered high treason to speak against the Holy Spirit.
When are some times that you tend to be disloyal to God?
How can you develop a better attitude towards God in your life?
Read verses 22 – 34.
Describe Jesus' over-all perspective on material possessions.
Why is it ridiculous for a Jesus-follower to worry about their needs?
Why is it so likely that we do exactly that every day?
What are some activities that Jesus would argue help to cure materialism.
Why is generosity in general such a powerful tool against valuing things too highly?
What is a worry that you need to entrust to God tonight?
What is an asset that you need to share with someone else this week?
Read verses 39 – 46.
How does the reality of an immanent return of Jesus effect the everyday lives of those who are his disciples?
Based on this passage what does it mean to be ready for Jesus' return?
How does your life need to change to be prepared for his arrival?
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?
Read verses 51 – 53 and 57 – 59.
Is Jesus a divisive or uniting character? Why is he at peace with causing confrontation?
How have you seen Jesus create tensions in your relationships?
Why are we so uncomfortable with that kind of tension?
Contrast Jesus' teaching in verse 57 – 59 with his tone in 51 – 53.
Why does he encourage us to resolve our personal conflicts through plea bargains?
What is the difference between personal conflicts and conflicts based on the Kingdom?
What is a personal conflict that you need to resolve this week?
What would you say are the most important changes that need to happen in this city?
Read verses 2 – 12.
Why does Jesus start this talk by reminding people that their hidden thoughts will be brought to light?
What does it mean to fear God? What is it about God that makes him worthy of our trust and respect?
Describe the kind of loyalty that God expects from his people.
Why is it considered high treason to speak against the Holy Spirit.
When are some times that you tend to be disloyal to God?
How can you develop a better attitude towards God in your life?
Read verses 22 – 34.
Describe Jesus' over-all perspective on material possessions.
Why is it ridiculous for a Jesus-follower to worry about their needs?
Why is it so likely that we do exactly that every day?
What are some activities that Jesus would argue help to cure materialism.
Why is generosity in general such a powerful tool against valuing things too highly?
What is a worry that you need to entrust to God tonight?
What is an asset that you need to share with someone else this week?
Read verses 39 – 46.
How does the reality of an immanent return of Jesus effect the everyday lives of those who are his disciples?
Based on this passage what does it mean to be ready for Jesus' return?
How does your life need to change to be prepared for his arrival?
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?
Read verses 51 – 53 and 57 – 59.
Is Jesus a divisive or uniting character? Why is he at peace with causing confrontation?
How have you seen Jesus create tensions in your relationships?
Why are we so uncomfortable with that kind of tension?
Contrast Jesus' teaching in verse 57 – 59 with his tone in 51 – 53.
Why does he encourage us to resolve our personal conflicts through plea bargains?
What is the difference between personal conflicts and conflicts based on the Kingdom?
What is a personal conflict that you need to resolve this week?
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Recognizing the Spiritual Sickness of Religiosity
Luke 11
What is usually your first clue that you are about to get seriously ill?
Read verses 11: 2 – 4. How would you describe the prayer that Jesus teaches his disciples?
For each element of the prayer, why does he have his disciples pray that way?
How does your prayer life need to change based upon the example Jesus gives?
Pray the Lord's prayer together as a group to help memorize the example.
Read verses 9 – 13. How do Jesus' promises in this passage make you feel as you hear them?
What is the scope of the promises that Jesus makes?
Why does Jesus use a relationship with a parent to illustrate our relationship with God?
How should the perspective this text gives alter your prayer experience this week?
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?
Why does Jesus exorcise people as a part of his ministry?
Why does some of the crowd react in a negative way to this gracious act?
Trace Jesus' argument with them. What does his argument teach us about the spiritual world?
What is an area in your life in which you need to experience spiritual freedom?
Read verses 24 – 26. Explain the spiritual world as described by this passage.
If evil spirits have a tendency of returning to a re-organized heart, how does a person make sure they stay away?
What is a bad habit that you find has a way of returning to your life over and over again?
How can you get freedom from this stronghold?
Read verses 29 – 32. Why are people asking for a sign from Jesus?
Why does this request frustrate Jesus so deeply?
Why does Jesus argue that two Gentile examples are facing a better time at judgment than his own generation will?
What is the sign that we have that Jesus really is who he claims to be?
What are you going to do tonight to show that you accept his sign?
Read verses 33 – 36. What is the light that Jesus is referring to in this parable?
Compare and contrast how good spiritual eyes and bad spiritual eyes function in life?
Why is it so important to have good spiritual eyes?
How does a person go about acquiring good spiritual eyes?
Read verses 39 – 43 and 46 – 52. Why might some scholars argue that Luke added verse 41 as an editorial note?
Even if he did, does that really change the way we look at that verse?
Compare and contrast Jesus' teaching and the religious leaders view of cleanliness.
Why does Jesus focus on internal cleanliness?
What cleaning does your heart need?
Describe some of Jesus' criticisms of the lifestyle of the religious leaders.
What would you say is the primary issue between Jesus and the religious leaders?
What woe might Jesus say to you if you were one of the religious leaders?
Why is it particularly bad to prevent others from involvement in God's kingdom?
What are some ways that your tendencies are violently opposed to God's kingdom?
How do you tend to make it difficult for others to experience God's design?
What is the process you will go through to change when you discover these patterns in your life?
What is usually your first clue that you are about to get seriously ill?
Read verses 11: 2 – 4. How would you describe the prayer that Jesus teaches his disciples?
For each element of the prayer, why does he have his disciples pray that way?
How does your prayer life need to change based upon the example Jesus gives?
Pray the Lord's prayer together as a group to help memorize the example.
Read verses 9 – 13. How do Jesus' promises in this passage make you feel as you hear them?
What is the scope of the promises that Jesus makes?
Why does Jesus use a relationship with a parent to illustrate our relationship with God?
How should the perspective this text gives alter your prayer experience this week?
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?
Why does Jesus exorcise people as a part of his ministry?
Why does some of the crowd react in a negative way to this gracious act?
Trace Jesus' argument with them. What does his argument teach us about the spiritual world?
What is an area in your life in which you need to experience spiritual freedom?
Read verses 24 – 26. Explain the spiritual world as described by this passage.
If evil spirits have a tendency of returning to a re-organized heart, how does a person make sure they stay away?
What is a bad habit that you find has a way of returning to your life over and over again?
How can you get freedom from this stronghold?
Read verses 29 – 32. Why are people asking for a sign from Jesus?
Why does this request frustrate Jesus so deeply?
Why does Jesus argue that two Gentile examples are facing a better time at judgment than his own generation will?
What is the sign that we have that Jesus really is who he claims to be?
What are you going to do tonight to show that you accept his sign?
Read verses 33 – 36. What is the light that Jesus is referring to in this parable?
Compare and contrast how good spiritual eyes and bad spiritual eyes function in life?
Why is it so important to have good spiritual eyes?
How does a person go about acquiring good spiritual eyes?
Read verses 39 – 43 and 46 – 52. Why might some scholars argue that Luke added verse 41 as an editorial note?
Even if he did, does that really change the way we look at that verse?
Compare and contrast Jesus' teaching and the religious leaders view of cleanliness.
Why does Jesus focus on internal cleanliness?
What cleaning does your heart need?
Describe some of Jesus' criticisms of the lifestyle of the religious leaders.
What would you say is the primary issue between Jesus and the religious leaders?
What woe might Jesus say to you if you were one of the religious leaders?
Why is it particularly bad to prevent others from involvement in God's kingdom?
What are some ways that your tendencies are violently opposed to God's kingdom?
How do you tend to make it difficult for others to experience God's design?
What is the process you will go through to change when you discover these patterns in your life?
Monday, February 23, 2009
Correctly sharing spiritual truth with others
Luke 10: 2 – 16
What is your favorite source for national and international news?
What makes you value that source over other potential sources?
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?
Why does Jesus ask them to pray for more harvesters and then immediately send them out on the dangerous journey of harvesting themselves?
What factors make the harvesting of souls dangerous work?
What is it about this dangerous catch that makes it worth it to Jesus to risk his disciples’ safety?
What are some of the risks that you take to share the gospel with your co-workers and friends?
How can we discern when is the appropriate time to take the risk of connecting words with our actions?
Describe Jesus’ instructions for these new messengers as the go out on their mission.
Why does it seem that Jesus is stacking the deck against their success?
Why does he tell them to rely upon the hospitality of others?
What kinds of actions are they specifically to do in their ministry to these towns?
How might these instructions be applied to our ministry to our friends and neighbors?
How does someone develop a humble enough attitude to accept hospitality?
Share with me specifically the message that God has called us to tell our friends?
How would you describe the tone of Jesus’ discourse in verses 13 – 16?
What is it about these towns that cause Jesus to lament so deeply?
What does his lament tell us about the gravity of accepting or rejecting the gospel message?
How does a person determine when they are to move on to ministering to a different group, block, or neighborhood?
How hospitable is your heart to the message of Jesus?
What is your favorite source for national and international news?
What makes you value that source over other potential sources?
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?
Why does Jesus ask them to pray for more harvesters and then immediately send them out on the dangerous journey of harvesting themselves?
What factors make the harvesting of souls dangerous work?
What is it about this dangerous catch that makes it worth it to Jesus to risk his disciples’ safety?
What are some of the risks that you take to share the gospel with your co-workers and friends?
How can we discern when is the appropriate time to take the risk of connecting words with our actions?
Describe Jesus’ instructions for these new messengers as the go out on their mission.
Why does it seem that Jesus is stacking the deck against their success?
Why does he tell them to rely upon the hospitality of others?
What kinds of actions are they specifically to do in their ministry to these towns?
How might these instructions be applied to our ministry to our friends and neighbors?
How does someone develop a humble enough attitude to accept hospitality?
Share with me specifically the message that God has called us to tell our friends?
How would you describe the tone of Jesus’ discourse in verses 13 – 16?
What is it about these towns that cause Jesus to lament so deeply?
What does his lament tell us about the gravity of accepting or rejecting the gospel message?
How does a person determine when they are to move on to ministering to a different group, block, or neighborhood?
How hospitable is your heart to the message of Jesus?
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Reacting to people who are complete jerks
Luke 6: 20—23, 27—45, 47—49
How do you go about recognizing a jerk when you see one?
Read verses 20 – 23. Describe the kind of person who according to Jesus is living a happy life.
How does this perspective of blessedness contrast with our usual way of defining happiness?
What would be Jesus’ reasoning for arguing that those kind of people are blessed?
How well do you relate to the blessed people Jesus describes in this passage?
What are some ways that you are poor, or hunger, or weep, or are excluded?
How do you tend to react when you realize you are in such a negative situation?
How does this text help you see your life from a different angle?
How should you react when you identify yourself as someone Jesus mentions in this passage?
Read verses 27 – 45.
What are some categories into which you might place Jesus’ teachings in this passage?
In general, how would you describe Jesus’ expectation on how we should treat other people?
What reasons does Jesus give us for his demand for us to treat others that way?
Which of Jesus’ teachings in this text do you find most difficult to practically apply?
Which of these teachings do you find most personally appealing?
Reading this text, in what way are you most convicted in your personal life?
Spend some time right now praying and asking Jesus to help you gain victory in that area.
Read verses 47 – 49. What metaphor does Jesus use to describe the different responses people have to his teaching?
How is this metaphor particularly apropos when discussing life teaching in his setting?
Why is Jesus so confident about the practical impact of his teachings in people’s lives?
In what ways is your life founded upon the rock of Jesus’ teaching?
In what ways is your life built upon your own presuppositions?
How have you seen the truth of Jesus’ metaphor demonstrated in your own personal experience?
How do you go about recognizing a jerk when you see one?
Read verses 20 – 23. Describe the kind of person who according to Jesus is living a happy life.
How does this perspective of blessedness contrast with our usual way of defining happiness?
What would be Jesus’ reasoning for arguing that those kind of people are blessed?
How well do you relate to the blessed people Jesus describes in this passage?
What are some ways that you are poor, or hunger, or weep, or are excluded?
How do you tend to react when you realize you are in such a negative situation?
How does this text help you see your life from a different angle?
How should you react when you identify yourself as someone Jesus mentions in this passage?
Read verses 27 – 45.
What are some categories into which you might place Jesus’ teachings in this passage?
In general, how would you describe Jesus’ expectation on how we should treat other people?
What reasons does Jesus give us for his demand for us to treat others that way?
Which of Jesus’ teachings in this text do you find most difficult to practically apply?
Which of these teachings do you find most personally appealing?
Reading this text, in what way are you most convicted in your personal life?
Spend some time right now praying and asking Jesus to help you gain victory in that area.
Read verses 47 – 49. What metaphor does Jesus use to describe the different responses people have to his teaching?
How is this metaphor particularly apropos when discussing life teaching in his setting?
Why is Jesus so confident about the practical impact of his teachings in people’s lives?
In what ways is your life founded upon the rock of Jesus’ teaching?
In what ways is your life built upon your own presuppositions?
How have you seen the truth of Jesus’ metaphor demonstrated in your own personal experience?
Monday, January 26, 2009
Avoiding Spiritual Punishment
[Click on title for MPEG of related message]
Luke 3: 7 – 9, 16 – 17
What is the most creative means of discipline your parents ever used upon you?
Read verses 7 – 9.
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?
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?
In what do John’s hearers seem to be placing their hope for a better future?
Delineate the argument John uses to prove that their hopes are misplaced.
In what do people trust today rather than putting their faith in God?
Define the metaphor that John uses to describe the consequences of a faithless life.
How is that a particularly appropriate image in his particular setting?
What would be some modern images we could use to convey the same truth to our friends?
How do we go about avoiding the horrible fate pending those who have misplaced faith?
Read verses 16 – 17.
Based on these verses, describe in your own words the person that John is hoping to arrive on the scene.
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?
How does your attitude towards Jesus need to change based on what you see in this text?
In a practical way, how do people go about building humility into their lives?
What are some ways that Jesus has figuratively immersed you in fire during the course of your life?
What does the Holy Spirit desire to blast out of your life tonight? Are you willing to surrender to His revolution in your heart?
Luke 3: 7 – 9, 16 – 17
What is the most creative means of discipline your parents ever used upon you?
Read verses 7 – 9.
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?
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?
In what do John’s hearers seem to be placing their hope for a better future?
Delineate the argument John uses to prove that their hopes are misplaced.
In what do people trust today rather than putting their faith in God?
Define the metaphor that John uses to describe the consequences of a faithless life.
How is that a particularly appropriate image in his particular setting?
What would be some modern images we could use to convey the same truth to our friends?
How do we go about avoiding the horrible fate pending those who have misplaced faith?
Read verses 16 – 17.
Based on these verses, describe in your own words the person that John is hoping to arrive on the scene.
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?
How does your attitude towards Jesus need to change based on what you see in this text?
In a practical way, how do people go about building humility into their lives?
What are some ways that Jesus has figuratively immersed you in fire during the course of your life?
What does the Holy Spirit desire to blast out of your life tonight? Are you willing to surrender to His revolution in your heart?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Strange Parcel
Judges 19
What is the most unusual gift that you have ever received?
Why is this passage introduced by the lack of a monarchy in Israel?
Is Israel truly without a king at this point, and if so, why are they without a king?
Describe the relationship between the Levite and his concubine at the beginning of the story.
Why does the girl’s father keep stalling them from beginning the long journey back from Bethlehem to Ephraim?
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?
What does it say about Israel that the servant wants to stay in Jebus for the night?
Why does the Benjaminite want to get to an Israelite city so badly?
What does it tell us about Gibeah that no one offers them hospitality there?
What are some parallels between the old man in the square and Lot at Sodom?
Why does the old man insist that they not spend the night in the square?
Describe the hospitality that the old man provides for them.
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
to continue in this town?
What does it say about their character that they offer their daughter and concubine rather than themselves to this rogue mob?
Why does the man set his concubine outside the door all by herself that night?
What is his attitude towards her the next morning after that inexpressibly horrible night?
What is his purpose in dismembering her and grotesque, morbid gesture of sending her body parts out to the other tribes?
Describe the attitude of the narrator as we come to the end of this text.
What do you expect the responses of the other Israelites will be to this horrible event?
Why does God allow such awful things to happen in his world, among his own people?
When have been some times that you have been person ally confronted by the dangers and violence of the city?
What are some things that we as followers of Jesus can do to help stop violence in our communities?
What are some steps that you need to take to improve the relationships you have with those closest to you?
What is the most unusual gift that you have ever received?
Why is this passage introduced by the lack of a monarchy in Israel?
Is Israel truly without a king at this point, and if so, why are they without a king?
Describe the relationship between the Levite and his concubine at the beginning of the story.
Why does the girl’s father keep stalling them from beginning the long journey back from Bethlehem to Ephraim?
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?
What does it say about Israel that the servant wants to stay in Jebus for the night?
Why does the Benjaminite want to get to an Israelite city so badly?
What does it tell us about Gibeah that no one offers them hospitality there?
What are some parallels between the old man in the square and Lot at Sodom?
Why does the old man insist that they not spend the night in the square?
Describe the hospitality that the old man provides for them.
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
to continue in this town?
What does it say about their character that they offer their daughter and concubine rather than themselves to this rogue mob?
Why does the man set his concubine outside the door all by herself that night?
What is his attitude towards her the next morning after that inexpressibly horrible night?
What is his purpose in dismembering her and grotesque, morbid gesture of sending her body parts out to the other tribes?
Describe the attitude of the narrator as we come to the end of this text.
What do you expect the responses of the other Israelites will be to this horrible event?
Why does God allow such awful things to happen in his world, among his own people?
When have been some times that you have been person ally confronted by the dangers and violence of the city?
What are some things that we as followers of Jesus can do to help stop violence in our communities?
What are some steps that you need to take to improve the relationships you have with those closest to you?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Shut Your Trap
Judges 11
When has one of your friends or colleagues really put their foot in their mouth?
Describe in detail Jephthah’s family of origin.
What problems from his family may have shaped his later activity?
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?
How has you family past shaped you into the person you are today?
With the arrival of the war, describe the negotiations that go on between
Jephthah and the elders of Gilead.
Why do they so desperately want his help? Why is he so coy in offering his assistance?
What does it show us about Jephthah that he is willing to treat with the king of the Ammonites?
What is the grievance that the Ammonites have against the Israelites?
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?
Why does Jephthah take the extra time explain all of this to the enemy?
How could you approve in your ability to present apologetic arguments for your beliefs?
Why does Jephthah make that silly promise to God when God’s Spirit is already upon him?
Why does God give the Israelites victory in this battle?
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?
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?
Why does she request a long vacation before the sacrifice is carried out?
How does this horrible incident affect later Israelite culture?
God does not desire child sacrifice, why does he allow Jephthah to do this horrible act?
When are some times when what you have said has gotten you into trouble?
How seriously should we take our word? Why is our word not taken more seriously today?
How can you become more careful in the things that you promise?
What are some (moral) promises that you need to follow through on this week?
What are some (immoral) promises that you need to let go, and accept God’s grace?
When has one of your friends or colleagues really put their foot in their mouth?
Describe in detail Jephthah’s family of origin.
What problems from his family may have shaped his later activity?
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?
How has you family past shaped you into the person you are today?
With the arrival of the war, describe the negotiations that go on between
Jephthah and the elders of Gilead.
Why do they so desperately want his help? Why is he so coy in offering his assistance?
What does it show us about Jephthah that he is willing to treat with the king of the Ammonites?
What is the grievance that the Ammonites have against the Israelites?
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?
Why does Jephthah take the extra time explain all of this to the enemy?
How could you approve in your ability to present apologetic arguments for your beliefs?
Why does Jephthah make that silly promise to God when God’s Spirit is already upon him?
Why does God give the Israelites victory in this battle?
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?
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?
Why does she request a long vacation before the sacrifice is carried out?
How does this horrible incident affect later Israelite culture?
God does not desire child sacrifice, why does he allow Jephthah to do this horrible act?
When are some times when what you have said has gotten you into trouble?
How seriously should we take our word? Why is our word not taken more seriously today?
How can you become more careful in the things that you promise?
What are some (moral) promises that you need to follow through on this week?
What are some (immoral) promises that you need to let go, and accept God’s grace?
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
He Was Nailed
Judges 4
Describe the worst headache you have ever experienced.
Compare and contrast the beginning of this passage with the text last week.
Why do the Israelites tend to slip into the same unfortunate patterns?
Imagine you are a foot soldier taking on a chariot. How would you feel facing that challenge?
When are times in your life that you absolutely feel overwhelmed?
How should we react as disciples when we face overwhelming situations?
Describe the plan that God gives Barak through Deborah for the rescue of the Israelites.
Why is Barak willing to trust the plan, but only if Deborah is with him?
Why are the soldiers of the tribes of Israel willing to follow such a weak leader?
How would you describe the terrain upon which this battle is happening?
How might this be beneficial for an infantry as opposed to a cavalry of chariots?
Why is it that Israelites experienced such a significant victory on the field of battle?
What in the story foreshadows the problems Sisera is going to face in Jael’s tent?
Why does Sisera trust the help that Jael offer’s him?
What is Jael’s motivation for killing Sisera in such a brutal way?
Why are we given such gory details about the violence in this story?
Why does she leave the body exactly as it was when she killed him?
How would you feel if you were Barak and found that Sisera had been defeated this way?
When is a time in your life that you found it difficult to trust in God?
Who is someone you find easier to trust than God in your life?
Why is it so much easier to trust our friends than it is to trust God?
How do we know that God is ultimately worthy of our trust?
How can you deepen your level of trust in God?
Describe the worst headache you have ever experienced.
Compare and contrast the beginning of this passage with the text last week.
Why do the Israelites tend to slip into the same unfortunate patterns?
Imagine you are a foot soldier taking on a chariot. How would you feel facing that challenge?
When are times in your life that you absolutely feel overwhelmed?
How should we react as disciples when we face overwhelming situations?
Describe the plan that God gives Barak through Deborah for the rescue of the Israelites.
Why is Barak willing to trust the plan, but only if Deborah is with him?
Why are the soldiers of the tribes of Israel willing to follow such a weak leader?
How would you describe the terrain upon which this battle is happening?
How might this be beneficial for an infantry as opposed to a cavalry of chariots?
Why is it that Israelites experienced such a significant victory on the field of battle?
What in the story foreshadows the problems Sisera is going to face in Jael’s tent?
Why does Sisera trust the help that Jael offer’s him?
What is Jael’s motivation for killing Sisera in such a brutal way?
Why are we given such gory details about the violence in this story?
Why does she leave the body exactly as it was when she killed him?
How would you feel if you were Barak and found that Sisera had been defeated this way?
When is a time in your life that you found it difficult to trust in God?
Who is someone you find easier to trust than God in your life?
Why is it so much easier to trust our friends than it is to trust God?
How do we know that God is ultimately worthy of our trust?
How can you deepen your level of trust in God?
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Potty Training
Judges 3: 12 – 30
Try to write “freedom through the outhouse” with the hand you usually don’t use to write.
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?
Why does God allow his people to go through such difficult times?
What are some ways that God may be trying to discipline you in your life?
How can you tell if a difficult time is a time of discipline or just the evil of a fallen world?
How do the Israelites respond to such discipline in their lives?
Why does it take them so long to cry out to God for assistance?
How does God respond to the pleas of his people for deliverance?
Spend a couple of minutes crying out to God in prayer for the difficulties in your life.
Describe the Israelite Special Forces team assigned the task of eliminating their captors.
Why does God use such a quirky and mundane plan to accomplish his purposes?
What are some unusual skills that you have that may have a greater Kingdom purpose than you have previously imagined?
How does a person go about surrendering their talents to be used by God?
Describe the appearance of Eglon (fatso) the king of Moab.
What might this king be doing sitting in an upper room of his palace?
Describe the tactical accomplishment of this operation.
Why does the text give us such graphic detail of the actual assassination?
What are some humorous elements of this disturbing little story?
Why does Ehud go through all the intrigue of killing the king of Moab before leading an army to fight them?
What are the socio-political results of this revolution?
How have you seen God use the circumstances of your life to accomplish his own ends?
Try to write “freedom through the outhouse” with the hand you usually don’t use to write.
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?
Why does God allow his people to go through such difficult times?
What are some ways that God may be trying to discipline you in your life?
How can you tell if a difficult time is a time of discipline or just the evil of a fallen world?
How do the Israelites respond to such discipline in their lives?
Why does it take them so long to cry out to God for assistance?
How does God respond to the pleas of his people for deliverance?
Spend a couple of minutes crying out to God in prayer for the difficulties in your life.
Describe the Israelite Special Forces team assigned the task of eliminating their captors.
Why does God use such a quirky and mundane plan to accomplish his purposes?
What are some unusual skills that you have that may have a greater Kingdom purpose than you have previously imagined?
How does a person go about surrendering their talents to be used by God?
Describe the appearance of Eglon (fatso) the king of Moab.
What might this king be doing sitting in an upper room of his palace?
Describe the tactical accomplishment of this operation.
Why does the text give us such graphic detail of the actual assassination?
What are some humorous elements of this disturbing little story?
Why does Ehud go through all the intrigue of killing the king of Moab before leading an army to fight them?
What are the socio-political results of this revolution?
How have you seen God use the circumstances of your life to accomplish his own ends?
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Standing on a Fault-line
Numbers 16
When is a time in your life that you got busted for something one of your friends did?
How would you describe the group of people who opposing Moses?
Restate their argument in your own words. Why are they so upset at Moses?
Describe Moses’ counter arguments to these groups.
What are Moses’ motives for being so melodramatic?
When is as time that you have resisted rightful authority in your life?
Why do we tend to be so distrustful of authority in our culture?
When is the appropriate time as a disciple to follow authority?
How can we become more open to the authentic authorities in our lives?
Describe the elaborate test that Moses sets up to establish who should have authority.
Why does God go along with this ritualistic test with such a brutal outcome?
How would you describe God’s general attitude in this passage?
Why is God so concerned about this threat to Moses’ authority?
Why does God have them recycle the metal from the ritual censers in verses 37 – 39?
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?
What does this show us about popular opinion’s impact on our lives?
How easy is it for your friends to sway you from what you know is the right thing to do?
Why is it that we tend to pay so much attention to what “everyone” says about things?
When is a time recently that your peers have had a negative effect on your life?
How does a person combat the effects of peer pressure in their lives?
What does it mean to “make atonement” for people in this situation?
Describe how the priests go about mediating between God and the assembly.
Who is someone in your life for whom you should be interceding more in prayer?
How are you going to go about doing that this week?
When is a time in your life that you got busted for something one of your friends did?
How would you describe the group of people who opposing Moses?
Restate their argument in your own words. Why are they so upset at Moses?
Describe Moses’ counter arguments to these groups.
What are Moses’ motives for being so melodramatic?
When is as time that you have resisted rightful authority in your life?
Why do we tend to be so distrustful of authority in our culture?
When is the appropriate time as a disciple to follow authority?
How can we become more open to the authentic authorities in our lives?
Describe the elaborate test that Moses sets up to establish who should have authority.
Why does God go along with this ritualistic test with such a brutal outcome?
How would you describe God’s general attitude in this passage?
Why is God so concerned about this threat to Moses’ authority?
Why does God have them recycle the metal from the ritual censers in verses 37 – 39?
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?
What does this show us about popular opinion’s impact on our lives?
How easy is it for your friends to sway you from what you know is the right thing to do?
Why is it that we tend to pay so much attention to what “everyone” says about things?
When is a time recently that your peers have had a negative effect on your life?
How does a person combat the effects of peer pressure in their lives?
What does it mean to “make atonement” for people in this situation?
Describe how the priests go about mediating between God and the assembly.
Who is someone in your life for whom you should be interceding more in prayer?
How are you going to go about doing that this week?
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Switchblade Mama
Exodus 4: 18 – 30
When is a time as a child that you simply did not understand your mother’s actions?
Based on what you see in this text describe Moses’ relationship with his father-in-law.
In verses 18 – 23 how would you describe Moses’ relationship with God?
What are the main themes of God’s instructions for Moses?
Why is God so concerned about his people receiving freedom through Moses’ action?
Why does God so intensely punish Pharaoh for his behavior when He hardened him?
What are some ways that you see your inner person hardening against God’s ways?
How can a heart be softened once it has begun down that path of hardening?
Why does God seem to change his mind about Moses along the way?
What is Moses doing or not doing that has drawn God’s severe disfavor?
What are some other times in the Bible that you remember this pattern of God’s behavior?
If you were Zipporah at this point what thoughts and attitudes would be racing through your mind?
Describe the ritual that Zipporah has to perform on her son and Moses.
Why in the world does this action cause God to relent in His violent pursuit of Moses?
What are some things you are missing in your life that may make you unready for service?
What changes do you need to commit to making in your life this week?
Who is someone who could help hold you accountable to that action?
Imagine you are Aaron, how would you be feeling as you hear you will see your brother for the first time in forty years?
Why might God send Aaron, Moses’ brother, to meet Moses at this point in the story?
What effect would Aaron’s presence have on Moses and his confidence?
Who is someone towards whom that God wants you to serve as an encouragement this week?
How are you going to actively go about encouraging them?
When is a time as a child that you simply did not understand your mother’s actions?
Based on what you see in this text describe Moses’ relationship with his father-in-law.
In verses 18 – 23 how would you describe Moses’ relationship with God?
What are the main themes of God’s instructions for Moses?
Why is God so concerned about his people receiving freedom through Moses’ action?
Why does God so intensely punish Pharaoh for his behavior when He hardened him?
What are some ways that you see your inner person hardening against God’s ways?
How can a heart be softened once it has begun down that path of hardening?
Why does God seem to change his mind about Moses along the way?
What is Moses doing or not doing that has drawn God’s severe disfavor?
What are some other times in the Bible that you remember this pattern of God’s behavior?
If you were Zipporah at this point what thoughts and attitudes would be racing through your mind?
Describe the ritual that Zipporah has to perform on her son and Moses.
Why in the world does this action cause God to relent in His violent pursuit of Moses?
What are some things you are missing in your life that may make you unready for service?
What changes do you need to commit to making in your life this week?
Who is someone who could help hold you accountable to that action?
Imagine you are Aaron, how would you be feeling as you hear you will see your brother for the first time in forty years?
Why might God send Aaron, Moses’ brother, to meet Moses at this point in the story?
What effect would Aaron’s presence have on Moses and his confidence?
Who is someone towards whom that God wants you to serve as an encouragement this week?
How are you going to actively go about encouraging them?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Living in Peace
Genesis 34
What is the most painful or serious medical procedure you have experienced?
Based on the context of this passage what might be some on going family issues that contribute to this situation that develops?
How would you describe Dinah’s relationship with the Caananites?
Why might that relationship in this situation be a problem?
How would you describe Shechem’s feelings towards Dinah?
What are Dinah’s feelings towards Shechem?
Based on our evidence was this a rape by modern standards or is it another ancient crime?
Why does Jacob wait to inform his sons of the problem?
What is the plan that Hamor comes up with to placate Jacob and his family?
What might be his real motivations behind this offer?
What does this plan tell us about the relations between Jacob’s family and their neighbors?
What would make the incredible request of the circumcision of the men of an entire town seem reasonable as a wedding gift?
Why do the men of the town go along with Jacob’s son’s request of Hamor and Shechem?
Why do Jacob’s sons set this as the “bride price” for their sister?
Describe the scene as Jacob’s sons carry out their bloody plot.
What is driving these young men to do this to their neighbors?
Why does Jacob allow this violent plan to be carried out by his boys?
How is it possible that Jacob was surprised by this action of his sons?
What seems to be Jacob’s primary concerns in the situation?
What does this show us about him?
What are some ways that your relationships with non-disciples tempt you into the world’s system?
How do we develop healthy relationships with non-disciples that allow for sharing our faith without being submerged in their value system?
How does a person go about setting healthy boundaries with their neighbors?
What is a dishonor in your life for which you feel the need of revenge?
How can we relieve that impulse without resorting to violent attack?
What is the most painful or serious medical procedure you have experienced?
Based on the context of this passage what might be some on going family issues that contribute to this situation that develops?
How would you describe Dinah’s relationship with the Caananites?
Why might that relationship in this situation be a problem?
How would you describe Shechem’s feelings towards Dinah?
What are Dinah’s feelings towards Shechem?
Based on our evidence was this a rape by modern standards or is it another ancient crime?
Why does Jacob wait to inform his sons of the problem?
What is the plan that Hamor comes up with to placate Jacob and his family?
What might be his real motivations behind this offer?
What does this plan tell us about the relations between Jacob’s family and their neighbors?
What would make the incredible request of the circumcision of the men of an entire town seem reasonable as a wedding gift?
Why do the men of the town go along with Jacob’s son’s request of Hamor and Shechem?
Why do Jacob’s sons set this as the “bride price” for their sister?
Describe the scene as Jacob’s sons carry out their bloody plot.
What is driving these young men to do this to their neighbors?
Why does Jacob allow this violent plan to be carried out by his boys?
How is it possible that Jacob was surprised by this action of his sons?
What seems to be Jacob’s primary concerns in the situation?
What does this show us about him?
What are some ways that your relationships with non-disciples tempt you into the world’s system?
How do we develop healthy relationships with non-disciples that allow for sharing our faith without being submerged in their value system?
How does a person go about setting healthy boundaries with their neighbors?
What is a dishonor in your life for which you feel the need of revenge?
How can we relieve that impulse without resorting to violent attack?
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Urban Renewal
Genesis 19
What is your least favorite aspect of living in the city?
Based on the context of this passage what is the relationship between these angels and Abraham who is
Imagine you are these angels walking into this city. What would be shocking about this place to ones accustomed to heaven?
Why are the angels insistent about wanting to stay in the city square?
What does it show us about
In what ways can you show hospitality towards strangers while keeping safe boundaries?
How would you describe the behavior of the men of the city in verses 4 – 11?
What does it show us about humanity that these men are so vulgar?
What does it say about
Describe the relationship between
Why do the angels allow
How are you a positive influence in your neighborhood?
What can you do to build a better relationship with your neighbors?
Describe the dialogue between
Why are the angels so frantic in their warnings to
Why is
What varieties of words are used in this passage to communicate the pending doom?
Why is it that God is going to destroy these particular cities?
What are some warnings that God may be trying to communicate to you?
How can we become more open to obeying God’s direction in our lives?
Describe the destruction of these two cities. Why are their consequences so violent?
What does it say about
Why does God decide to spare
Who is someone close to you that you need to be interceding for their protection?
What is the plan that
What are the many things about this plan that are ridiculously evil?
What does it show us about
How can we learn to be more patient in seeing God’s plan and purposes accomplished?
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid
This was the introductory message to this new Chronic Conflict series.
The text for this message is Psalm 111 - 112.
Remember to hear an MP3 of the message simply click on the above title.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Sibling Rivalry
Genesis 4
Compare and contrast Abel’s career with Cain’s. How might their lifestyles be different?
What is it about animals that make them a preferred gift to give to God?
Why does God value that kind of gift over other potential gifts?
What kinds of gifts does God desire of us as Jesus followers?
How can you intentionally give God what he wants from you this week?
Read verses 4 – 7 of this passage again.
How could Cain go about giving animals to God without changing his career?
What attitudes may have been in Cain’s heart prior to even giving this gift?
What would be the attitudes brewing in Cain’s heart after his gift was rejected?
Describe the warning that God gives to Cain. Why is He so intense with him?
How did Cain’s conversation with God at this point alter his emotional outlook?
Why did God’s warning have such little effect upon Cain?
What are some attitudes that you are harboring that may lead to actual poor decisions?
How do we go about transforming our internal attitudes when they are rotten?
What are some ways that sin might be stalking you in your life? How can you get freedom?
Pretend you are a pre-historic CSI agent. How would you reconstruct the crime scene?
Why does Cain resort to such a terrible action towards his brother?
Describe God’s confrontation of Cain after his homicidal plot is hatched.
What does it show us about our relationship with God that he requires an answer from Cain?
In what ways is God’s punishment of Cain incredibly appropriate to the crime?
How does God demonstrate mercy to Cain even in this punishment?
Spend some time crying out to God for mercy for the negative choices you have made.
What have been some ways you have seen God’s mercy in your life time?
In verses 17 and forward we have the account of the results on Cain’s family.
How does Cain’s miserable choice impact those who come after him?
Compare and contrast Lamach and Cain and their reactions to possible violence?
How would you describe what is happening spiritually over the generations?
What needs to change in your life to avoid damaging your family spiritually?
What level of control does fear hold in your life? How does a person overcome it?
Why is it necessary for the narrator to let us know of the birth of another brother?
How would you describe Eve’s reaction to this new baby?
What effect is the presence of sin having upon the family unit?
Why does the narrator tell us of people beginning to communicate with Yahweh?
What steps do you need to take to improve your communication with God?
Monday, July 21, 2008
Jesus is the ultimate renewable resource
Mark 8: 1 - 21 [Click on the Article Title for MPEG of Message]
Describe in detail the best leftovers you have ever eaten out of a doggie bag from your favorite restaurant.
Compare and contrast the beginning of this story with the beginning of the story last week.
Why is it that Jesus is preemptively bringing this situation up to his disciples?
How is it that Jesus and his posse got themselves into this situation for a second time?
How in the world is it possible that the disciples are so dense as to not understand what to do this time?
What is similar and what is different between the miraculous action last week and this week?
What is the significance of seven basketfuls being the amount of leftovers?
Why does Jesus repeat a miracle of this magnitude so soon after the previous one?
How do we know that this is not just a mistaken repetition of the previously reported miracle?
Based on the immediate context of this passage, what seems to be the primary concerns of the disciples?
Why are the disciples having such a difficult time learning this particular lesson?
What are some spiritual lessons that took you longer to learn than you wish they did?
What is something that Jesus is repeatedly trying to teach you this year?
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?
How has God provided for your physical needs over this past year?
How can we learn to trust him more for our provision in the year to come?
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Jesus provides renewable resources
Mark 6:35 -44
Why does Jesus keep this large crowd around until such a late hour in such a remote place?
Imagine you were one of the people in this crowd. As the hour draws late how are you feeling? What are you thinking about?
Compare and contrast Jesus’ plan for dealing with the situation with the one that his disciples had come up with.
Which plan makes more rational sense in dealing with the situation?
Why is Jesus insisting upon doing things in such an irrational sort of way?
Why did the disciples bring the sardines back as well when Jesus just asked for a bread inventory?
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?
Why does Jesus have people sit down in groups of 50 or 100? Why is that detail included in the story?
When do you think the disciples actually noticed a miracle was occurring? Did the crowd ever know this was miraculous?
Why does Jesus pray a pray of thanksgiving for the bread before distributing it?
What does it show us about Jesus that he is able to feed 15,000+ with so few resources?
Why is it significant that there were 12 basketfuls of leftovers?
Describe the relationship between Jesus and his disciples in this passage.
What is something that God is calling you to do tonight that is significantly beyond the scope of your resources?
What steps can you take to demonstrate that you are actually choosing to trust him?
What are some amazing ways that God has provided for you in your life?
What can you do to express thanksgiving to him this week?
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