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.)

    

 

  

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.