Thursday, April 12, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
The Mid-Week Update
This week we will only have an abbreviated update up as on Sunday we have NO CLASS!!! There are two Easter services this week.
Lesson Recap
Deuteronomy 31:1-34:12
Be Positive 33:1-5 & 34:1-12
Last Time We Met: Before entering Canaan, God reminded Israel to remain faithful to their commitment to Him. By doing so they would live productive, prosperous lives. However, failure to honor their commitment to God would result in unpleasant consequences. But even then- God was willing to forgive acts of unfaithfulness with genuine repentance. We determined the words God gave to Israel years ago applies to us today.
Summary of Background Material: The life of Moses covered a period of tumultuous and important events in Israelite history. Moses name, "drawn out of the water", pointed to his providential rescue by the daughter of Pharaoh. As a young man, Moses turned his back on wealth and power to identify with the Israelite people. His defense of an Israelite slave being beaten by an Egyptian led to Moses' fleeing Egypt as a fugitive. During that period of exile, God called Moses to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites out of slavery. Moses led the liberated Israelites to Mount Sinai, where they entered a covenant with the Lord and received the law they were to live by. Afterward, Moses led the people to Kadesh-barnea-located at the southern edge of the promised land. There a failure of faith by the majority resulted in decades of wandering in the wilderness. Now a new generation stood ready to enter the land, but Moses would not be the one to lead them in.
The final four chapters of Deuteronomy report Moses, last actions and teachings as he passed the leadership mantle to his successor, and as he prepared for his impending death. To the very end of his life, Moses sought to carry out the calling the Lord had given him.
Introduction: Many people stay so preoccupied with living today, they never consider what kind of legacy they will leave for future generations. If you were writing your own funeral eulogy, what would you want it to say?
This lesson challenges us to be intentional about building a positive legacy that points to and glorifies God.
Brag on God to the End 33:1-5
NOTE: In v. 5, Jeshurun= Israel (see Isa. 44:2). If you knew nothing about Moses, what would the description "the man of God" suggest to you about him? What do people today need to do to be considered a "man or woman of God"? What do you imagine Moses thought about when he viewed the promised land from atop Mt. Nebo? Moses life might have been different had he chosen to pursue his own purposes because if Moses would have chosen his own goals he would never have seen God's purpose fulfilled through his life's work. (See Heb. 11:24-27). In choosing to put God's purposes above our own we can make an impact on others that has eternal results.
Prepare and Encourage New Leadership 34:5-9
According to v7, Moses was obviously healthy and strong until he died. He laid hands on Joshua to pass the leadership mantle on to him because part of Godly leadership is preparing successors to lead after our departure. Teaching and training others to take our place is a gift we give to the next generation. What are some things parents of teens can do now to prepare them to eventually fill our shoes?
Grow in Your Relationship with God 34:10-12
What do you think the phrase "face to face' says about the kind of relationship Moses had with God? If we were to strive to develop that kind of relationship with God, what might it take? Moses legacy is about what God did through a man, not about what a man did for God. This is the evidence that showed God was working in Moses' life.
Conclusion: Realizing the importance for those who follow, I will work towards the goal to leave a positive, Godly legacy.
Prayer Requests
- Pray for a neighbor of the Robbins who is dealing with the aftermath of a stroke.
- Pray for Jeanette's friend Cheryl, who is depressed due to unemployment.
Monday, April 2, 2012
CSM Parent Newsletter
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Sunday, April 1, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
The Mid-Week Update
Lesson Recap
Deuteronomy 27:1-30:20
Be Repentant 30:1-8,15-20
Last Time We Met: God warned His people to be honest and fair with each other. He also instructed those who judged to do so with integrity. Reason being, when God's people treat their fellow man with honesty and fairness they demonstrate God-like characteristics. When judges judge honestly they judge as God does. When God's people demonstrate similar behavior in today's world-they too demonstrate God-like qualities.
Summary of Background Material: As Moses prepared the new generation of Israelites to enter the promised land, he taught them God's law and the holy ways God expected them to live. In this section of Deuteronomy, Moses called the people to solidify their devotion to the Lord God by renewing the covenant.
Preserving and Affirming God's Law 27:1-26
Blessings and Curses Associated with Obedience and Disobedience 28:1-68
Standing Before and Returning to the Lord 29:1-31:10
Choosing Life or Death 30:11-20
Introduction: A lot of country music deals with cheating on a spouse. What are some other acts of unfaithfulness we see in our society? Broken relationships are just one affect of unfaithfulness. All throughout our studies of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy we have noticed the Israelites in a cycle of obedience-disobedience-repentance-restored relationship. This lesson reminds us when God's people disobey, it is necessary for us to repent in order to have a restored relationship with Him.
The first generation of Israelites freed from Egyptian slavery received the law and agreed to the covenant at Mt. Sinai. Sadly, a disastrous failure of faith at Kadesh-barnea prevented that generation from entering the promised land. Fast forward 40 years. Despite the present generation's verbal commitment to the covenant, Moses knew that future generations would rebel and experience the severe discipline of God.
Repentance is Possible 30:1-5
Why might Moses assume the people would stray from God and need restoration? In verse 3 we see three things that God will do when Israel returns to Him after a time of rebellion.
- restore fortunes
- have compassion (see Ps. 103:8-13)
- gather them back to Israel
God Works in Repentant Hearts 30:6-8
How is a heart that has been circumcised different than before? To circumcise your heart means to change your heart or cut away the thick calluses on your heart. God transforms the hearts of those who come to Him in repentance. He cuts away the hardened, rebellious parts and leaves a heart that is soft toward Him. When we mess up spiritually, the things we can change ourselves or to stop sinning, admit our wrongdoing, and apologize to the offended. Why are we unable to repent of sin without God's enablement? Only God can address the source of our sinfulness by transforming the heart and giving us a desire to obey Him. When one repents and experiences spiritual circumcision, he will love the Lord with all his heart and soul (see Mt. 3:8).
Life Comes Down to a Choice 30:15-20
As we read these verses we might see a picture of a road with a fork in it. The two prongs would be faithfulness and unfaithfulness. Faithfulness leads to life and prosperity, where unfaithfulness leads to death and adversity. Assuming the principle of these words were applicable to you and me today, what is God's message to us? Look at v 20. You will note the words, "He is your life". What does that phrase mean to you?
Conclusion: As a result of today's lesson, I will search my heart and repent of any unfaithfulness to the Lord.
Baseball Tickets
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
Snacks
- 4/1 Stanfield
- 4/8 EASTER- No Class
- 4/15 Hurt
- 4/22 Perry
Prayer Requests
- Phil's friends (Tim and Terri) son who was 25 years old died. Pray for this family.
- Pray for Ed Stanfield that God would grant him wisdom in his job search.
- Pray for Don and Lori as they are called to minister to a neighbor that had a massive stroke.
Friday, March 16, 2012
The Rather Late Mid-Week Update...
My apologies for the delay, had a bit of a technical glitch here!
Prayer Requests
Lesson Recap
DEUTERONOMY 12:1-16:17
Be Different 14:1-2, 9-11,19-23
Last Time We Met: All of us face change in life. Israel was about to enter the promised land and their life was about to undergo significant change. They were going to be faced with confrontation and temptation unlike anything they have ever known. God instructed them regardless of circumstances. He wanted them to maintain exclusive devotion to Him.
The Lost Lesson: This lesson guided us to passionately affirming that God is our source of life and well being. Read the following: Love That Shows Priority 6:4-9. Devotion That Never Forgets 6:10-14, Grace That Is Undeserved 7-6-9. How well do these verses help us passionately affirm that God is the source of our life and well-being?
Summary of Background Material: Chapters 12-16 includes a variety of laws, regulations,and instructions God Gave the Israelites to govern their behavior as His covenant people. Topics covered included: worship, diet, generosity, and celebrations. Results being that God's people are about to be a different people.
Introduction: Our teen children face tremendous pressure by their peers to fit in-to be like everyone else. But we adults also face this pressure. When was the last time you felt pressured by your peers to be like everyone else? This lesson challenged us to exhibit a lifestyle that reflect a right relationship with God. This will cause us to be different from most of our peers. It's that difference that identifies us as God's people and makes us a witness for Him to "the world".
Maintain A Godly Worldly View 14:1-2
Cutting of self sounds a lot like 1 Kings 18:28. The bald spot on the head may be related to Jeremiah 16:6. Bottom line? Inflicting pain to show devotion is foreign to biblical principles or worship. There are a lot of differences in the way that believers and unbelievers view life. They include: looking out for #1, eat, drink, and be merry, the one that dies with the most wins for the unbeliever, etc. For the believer it is live life in the light of eternity, death isn't the end, lose life to gain it, love enemies, etc.
Choose a Clean Lifestyle: 14:9-11, 19-21
What do you think was the purpose of God's people keeping a diet different than that of the culture around them? It was because some of the foods had health risks, and also simply because God said so! In what ways does God call His people today to be holy and distinctive. We are to be the light and salt of the world.
Exhibit Consistent Stewardship 14:22-23
One reason God wants His people to give of our resources to Him as a form of worship is to maintain a healthy fear of Him. How does the way we use our money indicate the condition of our relation ship with God? How does one determine where to give when there are more needs than one could possibly meet?
Conclusion: In a secular environment, what would others notice as being different about me? My answer to this question will help me determine where I am in my relationship with God.
Easter Eggstravaganza
...is right around the corner on March 31st. Some of the class are volunteering to man a game booth that day. Come join us, or consider volunteering in some other way. A sign-up sheet is in the SPOT folder!
Snacks
- 3/18 LaRowe
- 3/25 Phillips
Prayer Requests
- Ed's wife Pam says thanks for our prayers. She felt good last week.
- Ed Stanfield asks us to pray for his little girl Amber. She is struggling with guilt of the death of her mother. She feels responsible.
- Pray for Ed also, as he lost his job.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
The Mid-Week Update!!!
Many Thanks...
...to Greg Mason and his class for sharing with us this week. The lesson was on 1 John 5, and living the victorious life.
Easter Eggstravaganza
The Easter Eggstravaganza is coming up on March 31 from 9-11 AM. Please consider helping in a game room, with the Easter egg hunt, in a craft room, or by donating a gift basket. Details are in the SPOT folder.
Snacks
- 3/11 Meinhardt
- 3/18 LaRowe
- 3/25 Phillips
Prayer Requests
- Prayer of thanks for the wonderful things in the Fine Arts department.
- Praise for how quickly Zenobia has healed from her trigger finger surgery.
- Pray for Don and his family on the death of his step-mother.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
The Mid-Week Update!!!
Lesson Recap
Deuteronomy 1:1-4:43
Be Exclusive 4:5, 15-19, 39-40
Summary of Background Material: In Deuteronomy 1-4, Moses led the Israelites in a historical review of the people's experiences from Horeb (Mt. Sinai) to the plains of Moab, where they were camped on the edge of the promised land. Following the review, Moses challenged the people to display wholehearted obedience to the Lord.
People undergo changes in life. Change may be financial, career, relational, or health related. These changes can lead people to question their basic values, shift priorities, and even abandon their commitment to God. Change is a fact of life. In this lesson we studied that we saw that Israel's circumstances are about to change.
Learn and Live by God's Ways 4:5-8
In verse 6 we see how the Israelites' circumstances are about to change. How might there lives be different in this new phase? Many types of changes in a person's life might cause them to drift from God. Both positive and negative changes can lead us away from God. What did Moses tell the Israelites to do in verses 5-6 to help them maintain loyalty to God in their new circumstances? What do you think the implications of these instructions might be for us?
Center Your Whole Family on God 4:9-10
What's the relationship between not forgetting God's ways and teaching them to our children? As parents of teens, how might we fulfill this command?
Let Nothing Else Have God's Place 4:15-19
Why does idolatry seem to be so offensive to God? What type of idols do people in your circle of influence worship? At some time, and to some degree, we can't help but be tempted as we observe their example. How can we guard against this temptation?
Recognize God's Lordship 4:39-40
In verse 39 we see how it will impact the way we live day to day when we recognize God's exclusive Lordship over us and our world.
Conclusion: Regardless of circumstances, I will maintain exclusive devotion to God.
Trivia Night
...is upon us on Saturday night! Details are in the upper right hand corner of this blog! Limited seating - Reserve your seat and/or table today! For more information on how to get involved, contact Melissa Luther at 314-517-5129.
Snacks
- 3/4 Stubbs
- 3/11 Meinhardt
- 3/18 LaRowe
Prayer Requests
- Zenobia-recovery from hand surgery is going well!
- Ed Martin-Paula's mom is had a lump removed from her neck yesterday. She is very concerned.
- Pamela Stanfield has a herniated disc in her back, and is having considerable pain and difficulty.
- Don Robbins on the death of his step-mom.
- Pray for the Guatemala team.
- Pray for Concord Church as a whole. Thanks for the direction it is headed, and for guidance and wisdom as the church grows.
- Keep Doug Gill (Hailey's dad) in your prayers. He was just diagnosed with esophageal cancer and will begin treatments soon.
- Pray for Allen Decker and his family on the death of his wife's mother.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Thursday, February 23, 2012
The Mid-Week Update!!!
Lesson Recap
NUMBERS -16:1-25:18
My Focus 32:1, 5-8,16-18,20-24; 33:51-53
Summary of Background Material: The final chapters of Numbers include various lists, including a second census. and inventory of captured goods, a travelogue of the journey from Egypt to the plains of Moab, and the names of leaders who would participate in allotting the land to the Israelite families. Also included are a cross-section of stories, instructions, and laws as well as the directions for establishing cities of refuge in the promised land.
26:1-27:23 God commanded a second census of Israel's men (excluding the tribe of Levi) who were at least 20 years old. The promised land was to be divided by lot according to the size and needs of the tribes. An unusual case involving the death of Zelophehad resulted in his daughters inheriting his land. Joshua was commissioned to succeed Moses and lead Israel into Canaan.
28:1-30:16 Instructions were given for various offerings as a new generation prepared to enter Canaan. Instructions were also given concerning vows for men and women.
31:1-33:56 God instructed Moses to direct the army of Israel to destroy Midian. The was was an act of divine retribution for the Midianites' previous attempt to destroy Israel. The tribes of Reuben and Gad requested land in the Transjordan because of their large flocks and herds. Permission was granted after they agreed to help take Canaan with the other tribes. A final recounting of the travels of Israel from Egypt to Canaan and instructions about occupying Canaan are recorded in chapter 33.
34:1-36:13 Instructions were given for the distribution of the land and the borders of Israel. Additional instructions were given for establishing Levitical cities of refuge.
Intro: Believers have a personal relationship with God as well as a communal one. In looking at the various levels of Christian community each of us share, we see our connection class, small groups, Concord Church, the Metro St. Louis Baptist Association, the MO Baptist Convention, the SBC, all the way up to believers worldwide. The people of Israel faced another test before entering the promised land of Canaan. Their unity and ultimately their success in possessing the promised land were threatened when two Israelite tribes requested to settle in the attractive pasture-lands east of the Jordan River (the Transjordan). Moses reminded these tribes that obeying God involves perticipating in a cause bigger than themselves. A question each of us should consider in this lesson is: How does God want to use me in fulfilling His purposes for His people.
It's Not About Me 32:1,5-8
What request did the tribes of Reuben and Gad make? What concerns did Moses have with this request? These two tribes wanted to do their own thing. How could their decision discourage the other tribes? In making decisions we need to focus not just on what's good for me, but on what best serves God's larger agenda. What guiding questions might I help ask to help me with this?
Others Minded 32:16-18
The two tribes approached Moses with a plan that included three aspects:
- Helping the Israelite brothers take the promised land
- providing protection for their families and herds
- getting the land they wanted.
Obligations 32:20-24
Why would it have been a sin for Reuben and Gad not to do what they said they would? It would have been a failure to help (See Jas 4:17). We cannot separate our relationship with God from our relationship with other believers. Therefore, do you think God holds us accountable for helping others fulfill His purposes for them? When we help others fulfill God's purposes, we please God. What about the other side of the coin?
God's People 33:51-53
God's purpose here was to subdue and settle the land. How was God's purpose bigger than any one individual or tribe? What do you see as God's purpose for the group of believers called Concord Church? How do you see your role in contributing to those purposes?
Truth: When we are in harmony with God, His purpose for our life will include our personal goals and plans.
Conclusion: I will ask God to help me stay focused on fulfilling His purposes for my life.
Trivia Night
...is just around the corner. It is on March 3. Doors and silent auction open at 5, trivia starts promptly at 6. Details are in the upper right hand corner of this blog! Sign up at the church office. Also, for those who signed up to donate movie items for the silent auction, we need to have them no later than Sunday the 26th so they can make the baskets!
Snacks
- 2/26 Zenobia
- 3/4 Stubbs
- 3/11 Meinhardt
Prayer Requests
- For teens and the pressure they face
- Zenobia -thankful that her surgery went well, and thanks for her sister who came in from Fort Worth to help her with everything
- Neil, Jeanette and Jeff's childhood friends daughter, Missy, was in a car accident and has massive head injuries
Friday, February 17, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
The Mid-Week Update!!!
Lesson Recap
NUMBERS-16:1-25:18
Be Aware of God's Care 22:4-6, 31-35 & 23: 19-23
Summary of Background Material: This week's background passage covers a period that includes events that occurred during the Israelites' encampment at Kadesh and on their journey through the wilderness as well as throgh around the territories of Edom and Moab.
16:1- 17:13 A Levite named Korah challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron over the people of Israel. The rebellion was stopped when God supernaturally destroyed the opponents and sent a plague among the Israelites as divine punishment. God demonstrated His choice of Aaron and his descendents as priests.
18:1-19:22 God gave instructions concerning the duties of the Levitical priests. The Israelites were instructed to provide for the Levites through tithes when they entered Canaan. Chapter 19 describes the sacrifice of a red heifer whose ash mixed with water was essentail to a purification rite.
20:1-21:35 Moses described the deaths of his siblings, Miriam and Aaron. The Israelites complained of a lack of water at Kadesh, and God commanded Moses to speak to a rock to obtain water. Moses' anger in striking rather than speaking to the rock resulted in his ban from entering the promised land. God saved the Israelites from an attack by a Canaanite king of Arad; then He had to punish the Israelites themselves for their grumbling and complaining about His provision. God later provided a way of healing for those who would believe and obey Him.
22:1-25:18 As the Israelites approached the territory of Moab, the king of Moab hired a pagan diviner to place a curse on Israel. God providentially directed the diviner in producing four oracles of blessing concerning the Israelites. God commanded the execution of Israelite men who committed acts of idolatry and immorality with the Moabite women. Subsequently, God allowed Israel to defeat the Midianites.
In a universe created and ruled by the Sovereign Lord, there are no random acts. The Lord may not always prevent hurt or harm, but He has a plan and purpose for each believer's life. What do you think about this statement?
Intro: Israel was nearing the end of 40 years of wandering that came as a punishment for their lack of faith at Kadesh. During this time, Aaron died and was buried. As the Israelites began to make their way toward the eastern edge of the promised land, a number of kings attacked the congregation in an effort to drive the Israelites from their territory. However, the Lord gave His people victory, and the Israelites' reputation increased, causing the Moabites and the Midianites to demand their leaders do something to halt the Israelites. In this lesson we saw how God turned the evil intentions of the Israelites' enemies into Blessings for His people.
Some Will Oppose God's People 22:1-30
After reading these verses we can note the following things: In v12 we see God's perfect will. In v13 we see Balaam omit that the Israelites are blessed. We see the result of Balaam's omission in v15. In v20 there is a problem with interpretation here-the NIV reads "since", but the KJV reads "If". "If" is closer as God was testing Balaam, and his willingness to obey. in v21 we see God's test being subverted by Balaam's impatience. v22 makes sense after the proper translation as noted above-See 2 Peter 2:14-15. Change and misunderstanding were the reasons the kings of Moab And Midian wanted to oppose Israel. These are the same reasons that God's people are oppressed today.
God Brings Good Where Some Intend Evil 22:31-38
After reading the verses we see the following things: In v29 we note that Balaam was concerned with his image. In v34 Balaam confesses to the sin of beating the donkey and not waiting as the Lord commanded in v20. In v34 Balaam volunteers to "go back" since God had not given him permission to go. In v35 we see God's permissive will (we should pay attention to results of God's permissive will). In v38 we see that there is no message for Balaam to give the kings of Moab and Midian. The results of God's submissive will was that Balaam would declare God's word before them, and the result of that.
How far Was God willing to go to stop Balaam from doing harm to Israel? When harm does come our way, does it mean that God doesn't care? God protected Balaam and he wasn't even aware of it at the time. God oftentimes does the same for you and me.
God Never Ceases To Care For His People 23:19-23
According to v19, God is different than man in His truthfulness, His dependability, and His unchanging nature. Look at 22:35. The command that Balaam received was to bless Israel. Balaam could not change this command, because even though he was a powerful man, he was limited to what God permitted him to do. In v21 what does it mean for Israel that God was with them? For us it means that we are never alone.Even when we are unaware of God's presence, He is there guiding and protecting us. Often He protects us from harm. Sometimes He allows our persecution and suffering, but walks with us through it.
Truth: God is able to protect and care for us. He sometimes does so providentially without our activity or immediate awareness.
Conclusion: Based upon the message in 23:23, I will consider the great things God has done for my family and me.
Trivia Night...
...is coming up on March the 3rd, from 6PM to 9PM. This event benefits the youth mission trip in the summer. Gather your team and come for the fun. Details were in the church program. In addition, we are making a movie night basket for the silent auction. For those who have singed up to contribute to this, we need to have everything in by next Sunday (the 19th) so we can turn it in on time by the 25th.
Snacks
- 2/19 Robbins
- 2/26 OPEN
- 3/4 Stubbs
- 3/11 Meinhardt
Prayer Requests
- Jeanette got a job, pending blood test and fingerprinting.
- For Pam Stanfield, who is suffering severe pain with her back problems.
- Continued healing for Zenobia after her hand surgery.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Friday, February 10, 2012
Updates...
...a few brief updates:
- I forgot to mention on the Mid-Week Update that we are having SPOT Lunch this week right after class. It will be at Fazoli's on Jeffco in Arnold.
- Zenobia is now out of surgery, so continued prayers for her and her recovery.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
The Mid-Week Update
Lesson Recap
NUMBERS-10:11-15:47
There Be Giants 13:26-31 &14:6-9, 17-23
Summary of Background Material: The events described in this background passage reveal a weak faith displayed by the majority of the Israelites. Small failures of faith culminated in a critical act of unbelief, resulting in one of the saddest examples of a lost opportunity in history.
10:11-36 This section describes the preparation and procedure for the Israelites journey from Mount Sinai to Canaan. The Israelites moved in an orderly manner following the God-given cloud that indicated the direction and speed of travel.
11:1-35 Israel revealed a lack of gratitude when they complained about God's miraculous provision of manna. Their demands for resolution of disputes led Moses to ask for help in administering the nation. Seventy elders were appointed to assist him. God supernaturally provided quail to supplement the diet of manna, but then He had to punish the people for their gluttony.
12:1-16 This section focuses on criticism of Moses by his sister, Miriam, and brother, Aaron. God rebuked Aaron, and Miriam was punished with leprosy. Moses interceded for his sister, and God healed her.
13:1-14:45 This passage describes the sending of 12 scouts into Canaan in preparation for invasion "Ten were bad and two were good.: Ten of the spies returned with a negative report and warned the people not to enter because of the size of the inhabitants and the strength of their fortifications. Only Joshua and Caleb urged the people to overcome their fears and to obey God's command to enter. God punished the disobedient by declaring they would not be allowed to enter Canaan. Then an attempt to enter the land after the announced judgement proved disastrous.
15:1-41 This section includes various laws regarding sacrificial offerings. The people were warned that no offerings were provided for intentional sins. An example of punishment for Sabbath violation was given as a warning. The Lord commanded the Israelites to sew tassels for their garments in remembrance of His salvation.
In our lesson this week, we studied how Joshua and Caleb stood courageously. against a majority who failed to obey God because of fear. Our challenge is to follow in their example as we face challenges and fears in our obedience to the Lord.
Moses has selected 12 scouts representing the tribes of Israel for a mission. They entered Canaan and scouted the vast area over a period of 40 days. They have returned home and we are about the hear their report.
What Prevents Obedience? 13:26-31
What keeps people from obeying God? Look at vv 1-3 & 17-20. Does it appear the scouts overstepped the bounds of their assignment with the opinion they gave in v 31? God had already indicated He intended for Isreal to possess Canaan in verse 1. The scouts viewed the situation from the perspective of what they were able to do on their own strength. Leaving God out of the equation, they found themselves afraid and unequal to their enemies. When was a time God enabled you to overcome an impossible looking obstacle in your life?
What's Good About Obedience 14:6-9
What did Joshua and Caleb see that the other 10 did not? Why do you suppose their report was in contrast to the other 10? Based upon this account we see that worry and fear are the opposite of faith. The 10 scouts registered their negative view in 13:28,31. Joshua and Caleb refuted specific negatives in 14:6-9.(/1/31-we can not go up against the people, 8-He will bring us into this land...and give it to us /2/31-they are stronger than we are; 9-do not be afraid of the people of the land /3/28-cities are large and fortified; 9-their protection has been removed. What is the difference between worry/fear and concern? The presupposition of worry is that we are on our own without any divine help. Concern takes into account the divine, but acknowledges the how, when, why, where, or who. Joshua and Caleb were basically asking "What does God want us to do" rather than "What are we capable of doing" What reasons did the two give for obeying God? Spiritual growth, spiritual rewards, closeness to God, fulfillment of our purpose are just a few benefits of obeying God.
In the following verses God displays two characteristics of His nature-justice and mercy.
How Does God Handle Disobedience? 14:17-23
God's divine character of justice is displayed when the people were not allowed to enter Canaan, but Joshua and Caleb would enter Canaan. God's mercy is displayed when He forgives their sin and allows them to live. Being disobedient may cause us to lose out on God's blessing. We can seek and receive forgiveness, but we will probably never regain what we lost through disobedience. What does this statement communicate to you?
Truth: We can courageously obey God, even in fearful circustances, because God can always be trusted to keep His promises.
Conclusion: God does not call us to obey Him in our own strength, We are reminded in 14:9 'the Lord is with us". Therefore, regardless of my circumstances and fears I will trust and obey God's word.
Trivia Night
...is coming up on March 3rd. We will be putting a basket together for the silent auction, probably either a movie basket or a car care basket. We can toss the idea around on Sunday. Also, think of folks or businesses you know that might help by donating a gift card or services!
Snacks
- 2/12 Hurt
- 2/19 OPEN
- 2/26 OPEN
Prayer Requests
- Amy, a neighbor of Janice, is in the hospital. Test being run for low blood count.
- Zenobia is having surgery on her hands tomorrow. Pray for a successful surgery and recovery.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
The Mid-Week Update!!!
Lesson Recap
Numbers-9:1-10:10
God's Divine Guidance
Summary of Background Material:
9: 1-14 Moses gave directions to the Israelites from the Lord regarding the first observance of Passover in the wilderness. Special accommodations were made for those who unintentionally became ceremoniously unclean and thus were unable to observe the festival at the appointed time. An allowance was also made for non-Israelites traveling with the congregation. Such people could join in the celebration if they desired.
9: 15-23 The People were instructed concerning when they were to move and when they were to camp. God determined their movements, and the symbols of His presence were a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The people were to move when the cloud moved, and to camp when it stopped. As long as the cloud remained stationary, the people were to stay in that place.
10: 1-10 God provided additional guidance for the nation through the use of trumpets. The trumpets provided auditory signals for the people in moving, seeking the Lord's help, and in worship. The fact that the priests were instructed to sound the trumpets indicated the guidance was ultimately from the Lord.
What do the letters GPS stand for? they stand for Global Positioning System. They are used to avoid getting lost or off track. In this weeks study, we learned that God graciously provides guidance for His people, enabling them to follow Him in all situations. God's will is our divine GPS. Our responsibility is to seek and follow it.
As for our study-God provided physical and spiritual directions for the recently liberated people of Israel. They were going to Canaan (a geographical place), but the Lord also wanted them to travel a spiritual road to holiness in their relationship with Him. Look at the first passage of this lesson-determine if it's instruction is spiritual or physical in nature.
When Commands Are Clear: Obey 1-5
The instruction here is spiritual. The commands presented were to observe Passover, and when to do so. (Also see Ex. 12: 1-14, Lev. 23:5, and Deut1 16: 1-7) How did the clarity of God's commands bring about obedience? The answer is in verse 5. Has there ever been a time when God's Word appeared unclear regarding an issue for you? What are we to do when God's Word seems unclear regarding a given situation? Take a look at the next passage, and what it has to say.
When Complications Arise: Pray 6-11a
This passage relates to a spiritual instruction. The complication in this passage is the inability to observe Passover. Remember from last week's lesson that unclean=sin. In 6-8 Some men were concerned about not being able to observe Passover. In 9-11a it is resolved. How do you see God's grace manifested in this situation? How is this a picture of God's grace manifested in Jesus? God's people in every generation often struggle to make wise decisions about issues not specifically addressed in God's Word. As we prayerfully seek God's will in such issues here are some principles to keep in Mind:- We can ask God to help us identify any unconfessed sin in our lives. Disobedience prevents us from discovering God's will, and repentance needs to precede petition for guidance.
- We can study God's Word for examples of how others faced similar issues.
- We can seek the counsel and intercession of wise Christians, some of whom may have faced the similar situations.
- We can write out the pros and cons of each decision based on the right priorities to God, family, and others.
- We can ask the Holy Spirit to guide us to make the decisions that honor God.
When Guidance Is Delayed: Stay 15-+19
In this passage the Lord is giving physical direction. This passage describes the method God used to guide and direct His people in the direction He wanted them to go. God's will in the movement of His people was not regular, and the schedule was not provided in advance. The uncertainty may have cause some anxiety among some in the camp. Some might have wanted to move when the cloud stayed still, while others might have wanted to stay longer when the cloud began to move. How is this similar to the Christian life today? There was a spiritual purpose behind the method God chose to guide His people through the wilderness. He wanted to teach the Israelites to trust Him and to be patient. How is this similar to the Christian life today?
Truth: God graciously provided guidance for His people so they can follow Him in all situations.
Conclusion: To succeed in life I must find and follow God's will that serves as my divine GPS.
SPOT Super Bowl Party
...is being held at the Hurt's this up coming Sunday starting around 5. You can find us using the map in the upper right hand corner of this blog, or you can email me at mpeman@charter.net. (Let the house cleaning begin!!)
The youth are having a party of their own at the Howard's. On Superbowl Sunday, they will be meeting at their house at 5 pm till the game is over. For those of you that do not feel like driving out to Pevely, we understand, that is why we are offering a shuttle to and from the Howard’s house. The shuttle crew will meet at the church at 4:30 pm to leave. We will arrive back at the church 40 mins after the game. Hopefully, that will help you schedule your Superbowl evening and take the pressure off being a chauffer. If you would like directions to the Howard’s, there are flyers up in the Rafters that have directions.
The youth are having a party of their own at the Howard's. On Superbowl Sunday, they will be meeting at their house at 5 pm till the game is over. For those of you that do not feel like driving out to Pevely, we understand, that is why we are offering a shuttle to and from the Howard’s house. The shuttle crew will meet at the church at 4:30 pm to leave. We will arrive back at the church 40 mins after the game. Hopefully, that will help you schedule your Superbowl evening and take the pressure off being a chauffer. If you would like directions to the Howard’s, there are flyers up in the Rafters that have directions.
SPOT Lunch
...has been postponed until Sunday, Feb. 12th due to the parent's meeting last week. It will be at Fazoli's on Jeffco in Arnold. Come join us for food and fellowship!
Snacks
- 2/5 Perry
- 2/12 Hurt
Prayer Requests
- Sally LaRowe Baker got a real job as an administrator with the Chicago Symphony.
- Stubb's family friends daughter who is struggling with addiction.
- Zenobia, and her decision on whether to do surgery on 1 or 2 hands at a time
- Zenobia's dad and his declining health. Pray for patience for her mom
- Pray for the missions cruise.
- Phil's sister-in-law lost her job last Friday.
- Kevin's friend Ron, who is struggling with some major health issues.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Newsletter From Ben!!!
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