Prayer Request

Please  pray for Hailey Gills' (a student at Mehlville) father.  He is having his 4th surgery in 3 weeks on Monday morning.

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

 ADVANCING IN CHRISTIAN LIVING

Be Faithful

Colossians 3:18-4:18

People take vacations to get away from the daily grind of life.  We need time-outs because life gets tiring.  Would you say the Christian life is exhausting at times?  And there are no provisions given for vacations in the Christian life.  So what are we to do-be faithful.

What does it mean to be faithful?  How does a person develop faithfulness?  Dependable, steadfast, and dedicated are just a few synonyms for faithfulness.  What can you come up with?

Live for the Lord 3:23-4:1

(Verses 18-21 right above this passage in the bible are instructions on how to relate to one another.) As believers, why should we not think of work as being divided into categories of sacred and secular?  A few weeks ago the comment was made suggesting that the calling of a Pastor is no more spiritual than a believer deciding on a new job or occupation.

How does Paul address the topic of favoritism?  We see favoritism in action today in things like gender, race, social status, etc.  What are the negative affects of favoritism?

Live Wisely 4: 2-6

Look at the six action Paul called for:

1. Be a praying person alertly (being vigilant would guard against routine, thoughtless prayers) with thanks (thanking God for His answer before He answered).
2. Pray for Paul's evangelic ministry (open doors, clear proclamation).
3. Act wisely-toward unbelievers
4. Make the most of the time.
5. Speak graciously.
6. Season speech with salt.

Why do you think Paul instructed us to act wisely around unbelievers?


Live With Faithfulness 4: 7-9
Paul describes Tychicus and Onesimus as faithful.  How did these two men demonstrate their faithfulness?  What are some concrete examples of how faithfulness is noticed and demonstrated in a Christians' life?

Live With Concern 4: 10-13, 17
Each of these men faithfully contributed to the work of God, but in a variety of ways.  What example did these men have on the church in Colossae & us?  Why is it important for believers to pay attention or deliberately focus on the task/ministry God has given us-but first-what ministry has God given non-preacher type Christians?

Conclusion: This week I will evaluate my faithfulness as a Christian.

Quote of the Week

 “The chief reason why people do not know God is not because He hides from them, but because they hide from Him.” - John Stott

Snacks

• 7/8  Meinhardt
• 7/15 Stanfield
• 7/22 Stubbs
• 7/29 OPEN

Prayer Requests

•  Pray for Terresa that she has safe travels both to and from Virginia.  She leaves tomorrow. 
• Kevin has shingles.  Please pray for a speedy recovery. 

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

Advancing In Christian Living

Be Focused

Colossians 3: 1-17

There are no shortage of television makeover shows.  Some of the more popular topics include weight loss, finance, clothing, and home renovation.  Think of your personal favorite! 

In this weeks study we explored habits we should bury and others we should begin to display as a result of the radical sang Jesus makes in our hearts and lives.

Where Should I Look? 1-4

Here Paul instructs us to look upward, to things above, in heaven.  The mental image given here is to let others see Jesus in you, that your life is indeed "hidden in Christ".  Knowing that we should also look for God in what we do day to day. The overall instruction is to hide ourselves with Christ. 

If your teen came to you and asked you what these verses mean, you could explain simply by saying that they should keep their minds on things above and not on earthly things.

What day to day things can you think of that get in the way of setting our minds above?

We live in accordance with new life in Christ when we consider Him and base our actions on what He has done and will do for us.

What Should I Bury? 5-11

Which sins are the most difficult?  Which are more challenging?  Why?  Look at the partial list that Paul has given us in these verses.  They encompass both actions and attitudes:

ACTIONS:

• sexual immorality
• impurity
• idolatry
• rage
• slander
• foul language
• lying

ATTITUDES:

• Lust
• evil desire
• greed malice

...and then there is anger, which could probably fit into both categories.   What is the difference between avoiding sin and in putting sin to death (v5)?  It is sort of like working on a computer.  If you want to avoid something you put it in the trash.  If you want to get rid of something you even get rid of it from the trash...gone forever!
By the time Paul wrote this letter, people of many different races and religious backgrounds were being saved.  He is instructing the reader to avoid defining or categorizing others by race, gender, status, heritage, etc.  This is important so we can see to live like as Christ did...by loving unconditionally!
We live in accordance with new life in Christ when we forsake all behavior that characterizes unbelievers.


Picture the image of a person.  Let each virtue in vv12-14 serve as an article of clothing:
What Should I Display? 12-17
The person is now fully clothed with these virtues.   Paul tells us to put love on above all the others because love binds them all together in perfect unity.  The virtue of forgiving gets mentioned a lot here.  What message does that have for us?
Look at v12.  How does it make you feel that you are chosen-not a natural born child but chosen as in adoption?  What difference can that make in your everyday life?  What does this verse communicate to you?
We live in accordance with new life in Christ when our behavior reflects our relationship with God. 
 Conclusion:  This week I will contemplate how my attitudes and actions reflect my new life in Christ.

Blog Note

This week we hit our 8000th page view!  It is great to see this working as well as it soes.  Keep reading!

Quote of the Week

 “We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade, the presence of God. The world is crowded with Him.”- C.S. Lewis

Ben..Like a Youth Pastor

Our kids are now home from Breakaway.  Ben posted this video that he made.  Too funny!

Snacks

•  7/1 Phillips
• 7/8 Stubbs

• 7/15 Stanfield

Prayer Requests 

   

• Terresa Howard is having back problems.  She has been in lots of pain, and it cost her some time at work.  She is working with a chiropractor.
• J.T. Howard and his job situation
• Terresa's neighbor daughter, Taylor, just left for the Navy.
• Kevin's mom, and her recovery from a heart procedure. 

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

 ADVANCING IN CHRISTIAN TRUTH

Keeping The Truth

Colossians 2: 8-23

Intro to Lesson: This week we continued our study in Colossians.  Let's refresh our memories.  Paul would go to a town where he would connect with a recipient group of people.  He would start "Bible" studies.  Some would accept Jesus as savior and a church would be started. The church in Colossae was different.  Paul never visited Colossae.  The church there was believed to have been started by Epaphras.  The main theme of this letter was truth.  The overall study of Colossians is designed to help adults develop an understanding of Christian truth.

In books, television documentaries, interviews, and even movies; we hear some pretty wild views about Jesus.  What are some false claims you have heard about Jesus?

Epaphras gave Paul a thorough update of the status of the church in Colossae Form this, Paul learned of the false teachings being circulated.  In this lesson, we saw how Paul encouraged them to maintain their commitment to the truth of Christ.

You may have heard about the 3 "R"s' studied in school:reading, writing, and 'rithmatic'. This lesson highlighted 4 "R"s' for responding to false teachings-recognize, remember, resist, and refuse.

Recognize 2: 8-12

Why is a Christian's careful study of the Bible vital today?  Why is verse 9 critical to an accurate understanding of the Trinity?  What change in our lives is pictured by baptism as seen in vv11-12?  After baptism it is a believers responsibility to walk with God and act like Him in our actions and attitudes.

Remember 13-15

Look at the action phrases in these verses that tell what Christ has done for us.  How would you explain these words/phrases to an unbeliever?

Resist 16-19

What specific issues did Paul address in these verses?  V19 describes a fatal defect of a false teacher.  He has no accountability and no relationship with Christ.  How does holding on to Christ and staying connected to the church help us resist falling for false teaching?  By asking the question 'is this consistent with the teachings of Jesus', believers can discern between an important tradition of the faith and an unreasonable demand.

Refuse 20-23

In v20, "If"=sincere or because.  In this verse Paul states the problem.  Jesus died to set them free from the regulations of the Jewish faith.  So he asks this question-why then were some choosing to fall back under the rules and regulations for which they had been set free?

In verse 21 Paul gives three examples of regulations the false teachers had taken to the extreme.  They asserted that for believers to be ritually clean and truly religious, they could not handle, taste, or touch certain foods and drinks. In verse 22 Paul states these "forbidden" items were temporal and had no spiritual value.  The regulations were developed by men and did not come from God.  In verse 23 we see that these self-imposed regulations had a "show" of spirituality/wisdom.  This outward expression of devotion could not change the center of people's lives.  Only God through Jesus could do that.  these verses are referring to legalism-self-imposed practices to help a believer feel or appear more spiritual than they are.

What is the danger involved in becoming legalistic?

Conclusion: Being able to recognize false teachings about Jesus is important for all Christians there fore, I will continue my quest to discover and keep the truth about Jesus by_________________ .

Quote of the Week

 “There is no battle too big for God to win. There is no battle so small that I can win without God.” –Kerry Shook

SPOT Night at the Muny

...is scheduled for this Saturday night to see 'Thoroughly Modern Millie'.  The class is sitting in the free seats.  The show starts at 8:15, so I imagine 6:30 or 7 should be fine to meet up. I will not be able to attend as my wife (read transportation!) will not be home.

Eagle Project

David Piel is working on his Eagle Scout project.  He is going to finish the playground behind the atrium.  The project is scheduled for July 14th.  He needs $1000 to complete his project.  David and the scouts of troop 821 will do the final work. A flier and an envelope for donations can be found in the SPOT folder. 

Snacks

• 6/24 Perry
• 7/1 Phillips
• 7/8 Stubbs

Prayer Requests

• Prayer of praise and thanksgiving that Ryan Spitz came through brain surgery great, and is due to come home soon.

       

The Mid-Week Update...Sort of

• Happy Birthday today to Ginger LaRowe!!!
• Due to issues updating on this site, there will be no mid-week update this week.

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

ADVANCING IN CHRISTIAN TRUTH

Knowing The Truth

Colossians 1: 1-20

Intro to Colossians: Paul wrote to the believers in Colossae from an unknown prison site.  Colossae is located in Asia Minor, modern day-Turkey.  It is believed the church was established by Epaphras, one of Paul's gospel coworkers. Epaphras learned of Paul's imprisonment and journeyed to him to join him and to report on the condition in the Colossian church.  Out of pastoral concern, Paul wrote a letter to the church he never visited.  He wrote to affirm the church's good qualities and to assure the believers that he consistently prayed for their spiritual growth.  Paul also addressed a major threat to the church: false teachings about Christ and Christian living.

The overall study of Colossians is designed to help adults develop an understanding of Christian faith.  This lesson emphasizes truths about Jesus in relationship to God.

Our Lord By Faith 3-8

In verse 5 note that the Christians love for one another sprang from the hope stored up or reserved for them in heaven.  What does this mean?  Hope has the idea of living with confident assurance.  It has the sense of fulfillment of our salvation when we enter God's immediate presence in heaven.  Another term of interest in verse 5 is word or message of truth.  The word of truth is the gospel.  Because of the messages absolute and unchanging nature, they were told to hold it and not to become victims of false teachings.  In verse 6 Paul notes that the gospel is producing fruit and growing all over the world.  Today we see multiplying, yielding results, and flourishing as types of fruit the gospel is producing today.  What ever fruit Paul was referring to was a fruit that caused others that saw it to want it.  That is why the gospel grew all over the world.  In verse 8 Epaphras had told Paul about the Colossians love in the spirit.  This is not a term we often use.  What it means is that the Holy Spririt was working in and among them producing 'agape'-God's type of love.

We know Jesus as our Lord when we respond to the gospel with faith.  Faith is much more than intellectual acceptance to the facts about Jesus.  It is belief, but it also includes trust in and total commitment to Christ.

Lord In Our Living 9-14

There are eight items Paul included in his prayer for the Colossians:

1. be filled with the knowledge of God's will
2. be filled with the spiritual wisdom and spiritual understanding
3. live or walk worthy
4. be pleasing in every way
5. bear fruit
6. grow in knowledge of God
7. be strengthened with all power
8. endure with patience and joy

Which of these 8 items do you need in your life right now?

Lord Over the Universe 15-17
These verses were likely a hymn that early believers used in worship.  The phrase in verse 15 "the first born over all creation" does not indicate Jesus was the first created thing.  In the Old Testament, the firstborn son occupied a position of honor, privilege, and supremacy; he was first in priority.  This was Paul's meaning of intent. Thruths about Jesus are revealed in these verses.  They are found in the following summary:   Jesus is the image of the invisible God.  He created everything and brought it into existence; therefore, everything belongs to Him.  He existed before creation. He holds the whole world in His hands.


When life seems out of control, you can find comfort that you serve a Lord who is over the entire universe.  He is before all things, yet He knows how many hairs are on your head (Matt. 10:30) and he is crazy about you (1 Peter 5:7)!

Lord of His Church 18-20
Consider these words or phrases that are synonymous with 'first' that Paul used in verse 18:

• firstborn
• first place
• beginning
• head

This is a lot of references to firsts.  Paul chose to repeat this phrase so often when describing Jesus' role in the church because this repetition emphasized the lordship and authority of Christ in regard to His church.  It also painted a picture of Jesus as the protecting sovereign, stabilizing force for His body, the church.  Here is something to consider-How does Jesus' sovereignty and dominion over "all things on earht or things in heaven" give you peace in your daily walk with Him?

Conclusion: The truth is-Jesus is Lord of all and Lord over all.  Knowing this will make what difference in my life?

SPOT Trip to the Muny

The SPOT class will go and sit in the free seats at the Muny on Saturday, June 23rd for 'Thoroughly Modern Millie'.   Bring along a light picnic dinner for while we sit in line!

Quote of the Week

"Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, it empties today of its strength."- Corrie Ten Boom

Snacks

• 6/10 Hurt
• 6/17 Stanfield
• 6/24 Perry

Prayer Requests

• Bradshaw's daughter-in-law, Jessie, had surgery Sunday that went well.  They had to remove the embryonic sack from her miscarriage and a fallopian tube.
• Phil and Ginger's sister Jane has adenocarcinoma.  She will have chemo, but not much is know yet.  Pray for Jane, their mom (and Ginger) appreciated.
• Safe travel during vacation season
• Emily Stubbs' and family's sanity for Saturday's wedding.

  

Quick Updates...

• Happy birthday today to Linda Conrad!
• The CSM parent newsletter for June can be found here!

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

In Memory Of

God wants us to remember certain events.  To see this read Isaiah 46: 8-9a.

Have you ever done something your wished people would forget but they don't?  The positive side of that is illustrated in Matt 26: 13.

The Bible records man's effort to recall God's interaction in his life.  A few examples are:

• Gen 35: 6-7 Why did Jacob build an alter?
• Ex 17: 13-15 Why did Moses build an alter?

One of the more memorable examples of man constructing something to remember God's activity is found in Joshua 4: 4-7.  What do we see God did here?  Why did God want a memorial?


Let's look at one more example.  This one is found in Luke 22.
In verse 19 what did Jesus tell them/us to do?

How is the Lord's Supper similar to the examples we looked at in the Old Testament?  They are similar in the fact that they are used to remind us!


Some teachers would tell us we are never more close to God than when we are in communion with Him by taking communion.  This is an act of worship He has directly instructed us to do.  Why do you think God wants us to continue observing communion?

Message from Brad Slinkard on Cardinals Tickets

 

I want to apologize about not being there on May 20th. I was in New York on May 27th and will be dropping my daughter off at the airport this Sunday on the 3rd as she goes to Germany, Austria, Switzerland for a class trip. I should be able to be at church after we drop her off and be able to get the tickets to those who still need them. I still have plenty left and NEED desperately to get rid of them so I can pay my Board of Education back the money. Come talk to me Sunday, I'm going to say I'LL BE THERE at the welcome center to get tickets. They are in Section 361.

SPOT Lunch

...will be this week after class at Culver's.  We will determine location on Sunday when we get a firm idea of who is coming!  Join us for some great fellowship!

The Muny

The Muny show dates are sneaking up on us.  Looking at the votes right now it appears that the winner is Thoroughly Modern Millie on Sat., June 23rd.  We will have a great time in the free seats!  Bring a light dinner to eat while we wait in line!

VBS

  

Quote of the Week

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing." -Neal A. Maxwell

Snacks

• 6/3 LaRowe
• 3/10 Hurt
• 6/17 Stanfield
• 6/24 Perry
• 7/1 Phillips

Prayer Requests

• Jeff and Ronda's daughter-in-law, Jessie, had a 2nd miscarriage and is having complications.
• Phillips traveling 6/2-6/9
• Rusty has a silent prayer request.

  

  

  

 

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy Birthday today to Connie Maloy!!!

The Mid-Week Update!!!

Lesson Recap

Philippians 4: 1-23

Never Let Up

Recap: Last week we were encouraged to view events from a heavenly perspective.  The Philippians remembered that Paul was thrown into prison while among them.  This would appear to be a pretty negative experience and certainly no something a pastor would want to put on a resume.  But in the book of Acts we read how God used that experience and the head jailer and his family came to a saving knowledge of Jesus as a result!

In This Lesson:  Paul's passion was spreading the good news about salvation through the Messiah-Jesus.  He alluded to issues going on within the church-by reminding them that we help spread the gospel by behaving in a consistent Christian manner.

What are occupations where consistency is crucial?  What happens when people in these occupations are inconsistent?  What are the implications or consequences when we are not consistent Christians?

Look at the first set of verses and look for instructions that Paul offered for resolving a conflict between two women.

In Getting Along 4: 1-7

Before we address Paul's instructions, let's first answer the question-what causes conflict within the church?  What instructions did Paul offer for resolving the conflict between Euodia and Syntyche?  Paul calls for a like mind, and asks Syzgus (possibly a name, or Greek for 'yokefellow') to mediate the dispute?  Why do you think Paul would give this instruction? In vv4-7,Paul offered step for Christians to guard our hearts and minds. They are to rejoice, be gracious, don't worry, and pray about everything.  That sounds good in theory.  So, what are specific ways to implement these instructions?

In Practicing Virtues 4: 8-9

Let's identify and define 8 virtues Paul mentions in v8. 

• True
• Noble
• Right
• Pure
• Lovely
• Admirable
• Excellent
• Praiseworthy

In v9 Paul urged them to follow his example.  Think about this one-who is following your example?


In Being Contented 4: 10-13
Paul's bottom line in these verses is to always be content.  In v 11 Paul says "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances."  As the Philippians read this, what would they have known about Paul's circumstances?  Look at 2 Cor. 11:24-28 for details.  His contentment was not in his circumstances, but in his salvation to follow Christ.  Last week Gene told us a story about a hymn writer, Horatio Spafford.  He wrote, "It Is Well With My Soul."  Consider the story behind the hymn.  How would you compare Spafford's response to his circumstances with Paul's?  Why do you think 4:13 is a favorite verse for so many people?

In Trusting God 4: 14-19
God used the Philippians in a few ways to meet Paul's needs.  They sent money on more than one occasion, and the sent Epaphtoditus to aid him.  Paul trusted God completely because he had experienced God's supply in multiple circumstances, and in multiple ways.  Basically, the same reasons your teen trusts you!
Does God still meet His followers needs?  Consider situations where God has met a recent need in your life.  How could this be used as an opportunity to point others to Him?  How could this situation be used to bolster your teen's faith in God?

Conclusion:  We are being observed by the outside world and those close to us.  Therefore, I will never let up in my efforts to spread the good news by behaving in a consistent Christian manner.

Quote of the Week

 

"Sin would have few takers if its consequences occurred immediately." -T.W. Purkiser

 

Just For Fun!!!

BIBLE BRAIN TWISTER
submitted by John Billings

I once made a remark about the hidden books of the Bible.

It was a lulu, kept people looking so hard for facts, and for others

It was a revelation. Some were in a jam, especially since the names

of the books are not capitalized, but the truth finally struck home to

numbers of readers. To others, it was a real job. We want it to be

a most fascinating few moments for you. Yes, there will be some really

easy ones to spot. Others may require judges to help them. I will

quickly admit it usually takes a minister to find one of the 17, and

there will be loud lamentations when it is found. A little lady says

she brews a cup of tea so she can concentrate better. See how well

you can compete. Relax now, for there really are the names if 17

books of the Bible in these sentences. (One preacher found 16 books

in 20 minutes. It took him three weeks to find the seventeenth one.

Snacks

• 6/3 LaRowe
• 6/10 Hurt
• 6/17 Stanfield

Prayer Requests

• Phil and Ginger's sister Jane-surgery and multiple health issues   

 

 

Update on Cardinal Tickets From Brad Slinkard

I've gotten with a few people about the Cardinal Game I have tickets for on June 16th. It's the Royals at 1:15. IF you have children in school above the 3rd grade, I'll be happy to take them on the field with me as part of the deal I can give. I've given tickets to a couple people and you can catch me on Sunday to pay for them or pick them up as some of you have already requested some as well. Thank you to those who have also purchased from me, too. I'll be by the info center between service and the 2nd Sunday school session with my ticket bag in hand. Let me know how many you would like in advance and I'll be sure to pull them out and have them ready for you. See ya on Sunday!

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

Philippians 3: 1-21

Look Up To Heaven

Recap:  The Lives of the early Christians were being observed.  Paul encouraged his friends to make their salvation evident in their daily living.

In This Lesson:   We are encouraged to look at the things of the world from heaven's point of view.

Intro:  Three men of wealth and prestige hear of an island in the remote part of the Pacific Ocean.  This island has many inhabitants but no Christian influence.  It is reported the people of this island practice a religion centered around cannibalism.  These three men decide God is calling them to go and share the good news with the people on this island.  They go.  They are welcomed, befriended, and treated well.  They even begin to start making friends and learning the language.  One day without any warning, the three men are captured, bound, and placed in a large pot of boiling water.  Guess what's on the menu for supper that day?  Word gets back to the states of this occurrence.  All the friends, family and church family are horrified.

Why would God allow such a thing to happen?

1-11

Paul's past

The accountant. 

 In these verses Paul sounds like an accountant.  "I count" is a key phrase.  Paul states his losses but what are his new values?  What does it appear Paul meant in v8 by "everything...a loss"?  In v10 Paul states he wants to know Christ.  How can we know Christ better?

12-16

Paul's present

the athlete

What does Paul sound like in these verses?  (see vv13-14)  "I press" is a key phrase.

What sense of vigor do we see in Paul?  What efforts did Paul describe toward reaching his goal?  Think of your life.  What is your prize?  For Paul, it was Christ likeness.

17-21

Paul's future

the alien

Why does Paul consider himself an alien?  "I look" is a key phrase.  What vision does Paul project?

Do you think Paul was being arrogant when he said the Philippians should imitate him?  What is the value of being an accountability partner?  In v18 Paul refers to enemies of the cross.  He might be referring to some Jewish Christian teachers, unsaved people, or professing Christians with shameful pagan lifestyles.  Whoever Paul was referring to they were enemies of the cross because their lifestyles contradicted their professed commitment to Christ.

Look at the lives of Job, Ruth, and Queen Esther.  What can we learn from their positive examples?

Conclusion:  Your teen comes to you one day and announces he/she feels that God is leading him/her to go and share the gospel with a people group on an island in the remote part of the Pacific Ocean.  There are a few other friends that feel the same.  They plan to go after they finish college.  What do you say?

Oh.  And our true story above?  One of the slain men's wife went went a few years later to the same island that her husband was killed on.  As a result , she lead the tribal leader to Christ and the rest of the islanders followed.

Quote of the Week

  

“Live near to God, and so all things will appear to you little in comparison with eternal realities.” -Robert Murray M'Cheyne

Snacks

• 5/20 Stubbs
• 6/03 LaRowe
• 6/10 Hurt

Prayer Requests

• Brock will be home next week with his wife.  Pray for safe travel and a good visit. 
• JT's back!
• Brock and Kristi are preparing to move back next year and start a new church on the Loop.
• Kevin is having a few neurological issues. Pray for guidance for the doctors and patience all around.
• Lesa's job search
• Jim's strife at work (problems).  

The Abbreviated Mid-Week Update..

...I just got out of the hospital so I am keeping this one short.  No lesson recap this week!

Snacks

• 5/13 Bradshaw
• 5/20 Stubbs

Prayer Requests

• Kevin's mom is home and doing well after having some heart issues
• Men singing for Mother's Day
• Brian Mulder's dad is having health issues

   

The Mid-Week Update!!!

Sorry this is a tad late.  A bit under the weather here.

Lesson Recap

 Philippians 1: 27-2: 11

Live Up To The Gospel

Recap:  Paul is in prison and writing this letter to the believers in Philippi.  He wants them to know not only is he doing well, but is in fact able to spread the gospel in his confinement.  Our challenge from last week's lesson was-if Paul could find a way to share the gospel in prison, certainly God can show me ho to share His love with other believers in my life.

In this lesson:  Paul uses the thought of his anticipated visit as a segue to begin discussing his major concern for the Philippians; unity among the believers.

Intro:  Salvation is both gift and demand.  When we accept God's immeasurable gift, we come under the demand that our lives progressively reflect Christ's character.  It's a lot like adoption.  It is a gift to the adopted children to be accepted into the family.  But accompanying acceptance is the task of adapting to the family's way of life including: goals, values, and general lifestyle.  This adaptation will prove to be an ongoing task.  Similarly, meeting the demands of salvation requires a lifetime of consistent, focused effort.  In this lesson we saw that Paul is going to admonish the believers to lead a life worthy of the gospel.  What do you think being true to the gospel requires of us?

Our Conduct 1:27-30

What might a believer's life look like if he lived worthy of the gospel?  Living a life worthy of the gospel produces unity within the community of believers.  Let's identify the 4 results of unity Paul mentioned:

1. Standing firm in one spirit=(as one strong group) or (the Spirit of God)
2. Contending as one man=with one mind 
3. For the faith of the gospel= working side-by-side for the "faith of the gospel" (the gospel message) or (what the gospel produces)
4. Without being frightened= as they saw that Paul was not frightened when he was being persecuted (see Acts 16:16-24)  We can see that he was not frightened in Acts 16: 25

How will living up to the gospel affect our conduct?

Our Priority 2: 1-4
To help us  better comprehend Paul's statement in v. 1, we would benefit by replacing "if" with "because".

• Because you have encouragement from being united with Christ.
• Because there is comfort from his love.
• Because there is a fellowship with the Spirit.
• Because there is tenderness and compassion.

How does this change your understanding of v.1?
As motivation for unity, in v. 2 & 3, Paul pointed to four of believer's deepest experiences with Christ.  They are:

1. Be like-minded= thinking the same way
2. Have the same love= demonstrate the same distinctive Christian love
3. Be one is spirit and purpose- share the same feelings and focus on one goal
4. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit=consider others a higher priority than self.

How will unity help living up to the gospel become our priority?


Our Attitude 2: 5-8
Look at the attitude of Christ Jesus stated by Paul in these verses.  In the workplace, on the sports field, and in relationships, attitude is often the first thing that either attracts or repels people from the message of Christ.  Our task as Christians is to be aware of our attitudes, and continually try to make them like Christ.
How will our attitude affect our ability to live up to the gospel?

Our Confession 2: 9-11 
How can one use vv 10-11 to argue the point that all will eventually be saved?  With your background knowledge of the Bible, what do you think vv 10-11 means?  When you declare that Jesus is Lord, what do you mean?  What is your favorite way to confess (acknowledge) Jesus as your Lord?

Conclusion:  We have discussed what we thought being true to the gospel required of us.  A right understanding of this concept is important because Christians spread the gospel by living in ways that are true to it.

Quote of the Week

 "All God's giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they reckoned on His power & presence being with them.” -Hudson Taylor

Snacks

• 5/6 Meinhardt
• 5/13 Bradshaw
• 5/20 Stubbs

Prayer Requests

• Pastor Gene's mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.  She is 82.
• Jim's mother is dealing with Alzheimer's and loss of memory
• Both of Pam Stanfield's hearing aids broke.  They have to buy two new ones.

 

 

Happy Birthday!!

Happy Birthday today to MJ LaRowe!

Happy Birthday!!

Happy Birthday today to Bill McKee!!!

The Mid-Week Update!!

Lesson Recap

Philippians 1:12-26

Lift Up The Gospel

Quick Recap: Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians, and he wrote it from jail. He wrote the churchi n Philippi to thank them for their partnership, to let them know that he was doing well, and to settle some issue within the church.

In this lesson we saw that while Paul was in prison, he told others about Jesus. His example encouraged others to also share the good news with courage.  However-some were encouraged, by Paul's circumstances, to "preach" the gospel with false motives.  And finally, Paul states his belief that his trial would result in acquittal.  But either way, he was in a win-win situation.  He was torn between going on living so that he could help the Philippian Christians and dying so that he could be with Christ!

Some opportunities only come once.  Think of some once in a lifetime opportunities.  Think of one you missed, and how you felt about missing the one you missed.

Opportunities to share the gospel is unique-they have eternal consequences and are orchestrated by the Holy Spirit.  All of us have missed opportunities to share Christ with someone at some point in time.  In this lesson we saw how Paul's imprisonment, which could have impeded the gospel, actually served to advance it!

In Limiting Situations 1:12-14

How is this situation limiting to Paul sharing the gospel?  Look at verse 11.  There you will see Paul's attitude about his circumstances.  What can you and I learn about this?  How can we be bold regardless of our circumstances? 

In Imperfect Situations 1:15-18a

What imperfect situation of sharing the gospel is referred to in these verses?  How did the other "preachers" attitudes affect Paul?  How did the other "preachers"  attitudes affect the spread of the gospel?  What are some less than perfect situations in our life?  How can you and I make use of these situations to spread the gospel?

In Stressful Situations 1:18b-20  

Paul's not knowing whether he will live or die creates a stressful situation for him.  However, his perspective concerning his future is to honor God regardless the outcome.  How do you think it was possible for him to honor and rejoice Christ in his circumstances?

So that was Paul-what about us?Stressful situations come in a variety of shapes and sizes; job loss, terminal illness, car accident, or even a week with the flu.  While most of us cannot identify with Paul's prison time, we would agree that it is difficult to rejoice in the previous stated circumstances.  How we handle ourselves in the midst of these events can be a real testimony to people around us.  Just something to think about.

In Unresolved Situations 1:21-26

Few, if any of us, will ever know if we will be released from prison or not.  But we all face unresolved situations.  What are some examples of some?

Look at verse 21.  What do you think Paul means by this statement?  Secondly, do you agree with Paul's declaration in this verse?  Why or why not?

Because of his imprisonment, Paul did no know if he would live or die.  His future was a mystery.  As followers of Christ, we recognize that life is a gift.  While we cannot know the future any more than Paul could, we rest in the assurance of eternity with Christ.  Paul was firm in his conviction that, whether in life or Death, his desire was to point others to Christ.  What an example for us to follow!

Conclusion: If Paul can find an opportunity to share Christ while in prison-certainly God can show me how to share His love with others in my life.

SPOT Lunch...

...will be this week after class at Chili's.  We will decide on the location when we see who is going!

Quote of the Week

“May our lives, our words, and our faith reflect that men and women need look no further, He truly is the One.” – Mike MacIntosh

 

Snacks

• • 4/29 Phillips

  • 5/06 Meinhardt

  • 5/13 Bradshaw

   

  Prayer Requests

  • • Janice's daughter Claudia is off her chemo.  Pray that her blood count stays down so she can stay off the chemo.

    • Pray for Ed's son's friend who was injured when he was hit by a car bomb in Afghanistan.  Now he is getting sent back there.

    

 

Happy Anniversary!!!

Happy Anniversary today to Rich and Linda Conrad!!!

Happy Anniversary!!!

Happy Anniversary today to Kieth and Lisa Cole!!!

The Mid-Week Update

Lesson Recap

Philippians 1:1-11

Link Up With Others

Intro to Philippians:  Philippi is a city is Macedonia.  Macedonia is located north of Greece.  It is a rich tract of land centered on the plains of the gulf of Thessalonica  and is famous for its timber and precious metal.  Its kings dominated Greek affairs from the 4th century BC.  Subsequently its federations of republics were incorporated into a Roman province with a proconsul at Thessalonica.  After his vision of a man of Macedonia (Acts 16:9), Paul began to take advantage of his high social status and spread the good news throughout the region.

     The letter is broken down as follows:

• Greetings (1:1-2)
• Thanksgiving and prayer (1:3-11)
• Paul's ambition and joy (1:12-26)
• Exhortation and example (1:27-2:18)
• Anticipated future plans (2:19-30)
• Digression about false teachers (3)
• Encouragements, appreciations, and greetings (4)

     The church was founded during Paul's second missionary journey (Acts 16:12ff).  The letter was written while Paul was in prison.  It is debated which of Paul's three imprisonments the letter was written.  Paul had several aims when he wrote Philippians.

1. His primary purpose was to prevent division in the church.  A disagreement between two members threatened the church's unity.
2. He wanted to inform the church that he was doing well, in fact, even in prison he was advancing the gospel.  
3. He desired to warn against the teachings of some legalistic Jewish Christians.
4. He needed to correct some Christians who were claiming spiritual perfection.
5. He wished to thank church members for their gift.

Intro to Lesson
   Support can mean different things to different people:

• To a parent of a teenager/college student it can mean monetary support.
• To a painter on a ladder it can mean physical help, as in the holding of the ladder.
• To a friend with a physical ailment it can mean emotional support.
• A marathon runner can get support from motivation by others.

     Support can mean different things at different times based upon our stage in life.  Most of us have provided support to others and/or been supported by others.

Get Started 1-2
  The letter is addressed to  all saints (Christians), overseers & deacons (leaders).  Here Paul passes the blessing of grace and peace to them.  What is grace?  What is peace?  Where does a believer obtain grace and peace? (See v2)

Be Involved Now 3-6
Paul felt grateful to the Philippians for their financial support, and he felt thankful for their involvement with his ministry from start to finish.  What does it mean to partner with someone?  How can you and I partner with others to spread the gospel?  How would you explain verse 6 to your teen?  What does it mean to you?

Assist in Various Ways 7-8
The Philippians were faithful supporters of Paul.  He received financial and emotional support from them.  These believers also joined Paul in spreading the good news to the Gentiles.  Paul was honored to partner with them in the work of spreading the gospel.  What does it mean to share the gospel with someone?  In what ways can you and I assist in sharing the gospel?

Stay With It 9-11
  In his prayer, Paul request love, knowledge, insight, discernment, and purity on behalf of the Philippian believers.  Think of the difference between a child's and adult's attitude and motivation to stick with a task or long-term commitment.  Paul commended the church in Philippi for their growing maturity in Christ.  He encouraged them to stay with it.  What Steps can one take to help them be consistent with spiritual growth?

Conclusion:  What steps can I take to ensure I continue to grow in Christ?

Class Muny Visit

The poll on what Muny show the class should go and see this year is in the folder.  Vote early and often!  All dates listed are Saturday nights, and we will sit in the free seats!

Baseball Tickets

As mentioned previously here on the Blog, Brad Slinkard has reduced price Cardinal ticket for sale, and he is offering the special price to the SPOT class.  He sends along this message:

" I was not at church last Sunday, nor will I be there this Sunday as I will be in Minneapolis. I've received replies for tickets and I have those names saved in an email folder. As a reminder, they are $37.00 tickets in the Left Field Pavillion that I'm selling for $17.00 per ticket so that's more than 1/2 off. I can meet you in the lobby at church tonight or next Wednesday since I won't be at church this weekend or I can meet you in the lobby after Church service on Sunday April 29th. We always can just set a time and meet, too as the game isn't until June 16th. We'll make it happen. Enjoy your week!"

Here are the prior details:

 Brad Slinkard, once again, has plenty of tickets to the Cardinal's game on Saturday, June 16th at 1:15 for the Cardinals/Royals game. He is opening it up to the SPOT class again. Tickets are normally 32.00 for this game but getting them for only $17.00 so almost 1/2 off. Please see him at church or respond here (or call) and let me know if you'd like any. It's also Purina Pet day where you get a Dog bowl for your pet =)......

Brad Slinkard

314-494-5081

bs4@sbcglobal.net

 

 

 

 Quote of the Week

 

If our mission is centered on the cross, we will still address social and political concerns, but we will do so without concern for our own power an influence.-Russell D. Moore, Tempted and Tried, Crossway, 2011

 

Snacks

 

• 4/22 Perry
• 4/29 Phillips
• 5/6 Meinhardt
• 5/13 Bradshaw

Prayer Requests

• God found Karen's pearls for her that have been lost for at least 15 years.  Rusty gave them to her before they were married!
• Mike Zimmer, who used to be a member here 7 years ago and was in Fine Arts, was here on Sunday.  Pray that he continues to stay clean and sober.
• Zenobia's dad's level of cognition is declining.  Pray for transition needed, and for her mom.
• J.T. got a job!  (Now Lesa needs one.)