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.)

    

 

  

Happy Anniversary!!!

Happy Anniversary today to Brooks and Ginger LaRowe!!!

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy Birthday today to Emily Stubbs.  Enjoy your day, and God's blessings!

Happy Birthday!!!!

Happy Birthday today to Jeff Maloy!!!

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. 

 

CSM Parent Newsletter

Parents! I hope that you enjoyed your Spring Breaks and some time away with your kids. As I am sure you are well aware, next Sunday is Easter. In preparation for this Easter, I want to challenge you to allow for time alone with God and with your families to reflect on all that Christ has done for us. I have given the students a plan on the CSM page; it goes as follows: Monday: John 13-14 , Tuesday: John 15-16 , Wednesday: John 17-18, Thursday: John 19-21 , Good Friday: Luke 22-24 , Saturday: Mark 14-16, Resurrection Sunday: Matthew 26-28. I know this will allow the Spirit to move in you as He moves in the lives of your children. Please don’t let yourselves get “busy” this week and miss out on the importance of what we celebrate this week; God humbling Himself to human form, walking among us, dying for us wretched sinners, and paying for our sins, giving us SALVATION! This month we are going to be starting a series called “Get in S.H.A.P.E.”. The purpose of this series is to help students see how God has uniquely “S.H.A.P.E.d” them to do ministry. I am hoping that out of this series we will be able to kick off our student leadership program. Each week, we will be going through each of the letters, the weeks are as follows: Morning: Evening: 1 – Spiritual Gifts 4 – Spiritual Gifts 8 – Easter (no meetings) 11 – Heart 15 – Ability 15/18 – Ability 22 – Personality 22/25 – Personality 29 – Experiences 29 – Experiences High school parents, make a note that we will be combining High school and Middle school on the 4th and 11th of April due to Young Christian’s Weekend and Easter. This month we have one big event. We are doing our annual 30 Hour Famine. It will begin on Friday, April 13th, (eek!) at 6:30 pm and go till Saturday, April 14th, at 6:30 pm. Just so you know, we will be fasting for the course of 30 Hours to help students one, gain better insight to what its like to go hungry, and two, to pray for those who are without food and oppressed. As a lead-up to the event, we ask students to try and raise as much money as possible to give to World Vision. Every $30 raised gives food for a child for an entire month! Those packets can be found in the Rafters on our information table. This past month has been quite a month of preparation for this summer. There are tons of things that are going to be happening, but I want to make mention of two of them. Breakaway 2012 will be happening June 22-24th. We will be heading down to Windermere this year. They have tons of things for us to do at a very great price. The base cost of the trip will be $100. When your child signs up, they will also be signing up for their free time activities on Saturday afternoon. Depending on what they choose will also affect the total cost of the trip. There is a good amount of cheap to free activities for those of you that are on a tight budget (which in my opinion are equally as awesome)! We will be mailing those forms out to you this week, so be looking for those in your snail mailboxes and/or grab one upstairs in the Rafters. Also this summer, we will be taking some of our high school students to South Dakota. Due to some scheduling issues with the camp we had to change the dates of the trip. We will be leaving on July 15th and returning on the 21st now. I am so sorry for the change in dates, and if this makes a conflict with anyone that was able and cannot go now. With that in mind as well, we will have team meetings to lead up to our trip. The training dates are tentatively scheduled as follows: May 6th, May 20th, June 10th, July 1st. Summer is a time for relationships. My vision and goal for summer is to provide activities and events that spur on community within our group. We will continue our normal Sunday morning circle groups. During the week we will be holding a weekly Monday in Motion and Bible and Biscotti (Thursdays). Mondays will be geared as a time to hang out, play games, and enjoy a short devotional. Thursday will be geared toward diving deep into the word, led by myself or another leader. Also, twice a month we will be meeting in houses as a laid back alternative to our usual Evening meetings. With that said, we will not be meeting in the evenings as we do during the school year. All of the dates and activities will be announced next month. Lastly, We need your talents and abilities! If you are interested in going on one of our trips, we would love to have you! If you are interested in getting more involved, please do not hesitate to contact me and let me know! We would love to have you as part of the CSM team! I want to thank you all for entrusting our ministry with the responsibility of helping you disciple your children. I am very excited for what God is doing in our students’ lives and what He is going to do. I continually pray for you and your children, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.” May the God of peace and all wisdom guide your hearts and minds. To Him be all the glory, honor and praise! Amen. Ben Wahlman

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy Birthday today to Lisa Cole!!!!

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.  

1. restore fortunes
2. have compassion (see Ps. 103:8-13)
3. gather them back to Israel   

What do the prophecies concerning Israel's future falling away and offer of restoration suggest to you about God?  What is the message here for people who feel God could never forgive them for what they've done?

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

bs4@sbcglobal.net

 

 

 

 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.

 

Happy Birthday!!

Happy Birthday today to Rusty Phillips!!!  Have a great day!

The Rather Late Mid-Week Update...

My apologies for the delay, had a bit of a technical glitch here!

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.

 

 

  

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.

...and I found this neat video about prayer:

  

The CSM Newsletter...

...can be found here.

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.

   

  

Prayer Request

Prayers and condolences go out to Don Robbins on the death of his step-mom.

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:

1. Helping the Israelite brothers take the promised land
2. providing protection for their families and herds
3. getting the land they wanted.   

The two tribes' plan involved helping others achieve their goals before settling down in their new home.

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

      

 

 

 

Big Chill

There are some photos and a video of the kids at Big Chill.  Head over to the CSM site and check them out!!! 

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.