Bible Study Fellowship - Arizona: Recent Episodes
Eric Hein
Tucson AZ Men's Bible Study Fellowship.
The current study for 2021-22 is the book of Matthew.
The next study will start in September of 2022 and it will be "People of Promise - Divided Kingdom". This study will cover the history of Israel from the time the nation split into the Northern kingdom and the Southern kingdom.
Also check out azbsf.org for additional information for Bible Study Fellowship - Arizona
Division 1
God’s Kings
Micah 7:18-19
Principle 1: God’s mercy triumphs.
Applications:
1. What sin, shame, or guilt do you need to turn over to Jesus?
Division 2
God’s Prophets
Jeremiah 4:22
Principle 2: God’s plan wins.
Applications:
- Why do you find it hard to fully submit to Christ? Division 3
God’s People
Romans 15:4
Principle 3: God’s has the last word.
Applications:
How will you commit to consuming God’s word this summer?
Division 1
Habakkuk Questions God
Habakkuk 1-2
Principle 1: God’s sovereign ways will not always make sense to us.
Applications:
1. What questions do you need to ask God to strengthen your faith?
Division 2
Habakkuk Resolves to Trust God
Habakkuk 3
Principle 2: God’s sovereign control of this world and your life can be trusted.
Applications:
- Ehen life's mysteries seem overwhelming, what truth about God calms your heart?
Division 1
Fall of Jerusalem
Lamentations 1-2
Principle 1: Sin’s destruction causes God’s people to suffer and grieve.
Applications: How would you describe your most painful struggle to God?
Division 2
God’s Faithfulness
Lamentations 3
Principle 2: Enduring hope originates from focusing on God’s faithfulness and love.
Applications:
What truth about God brings hope to a situation that feels hopeless?
Division 3
Jeremiah’s Prayer
Lamentations 4-5
Principle 2: Prayer is evidence of trusting God as we wait on Him.
Applications:
Few of us will write a poem to God as we suffer, but will you strive to callout to God in prayer, willing to ask the hard questions?
Division 1
Jeremiah 2-29 – Damage Borne From Sin
Principle 1
Sin damages all that is good.
Application 1
In what area of your life are you tempted to rationalize your sin?
Division 2
Jeremiah 30-33, 46-52 – Hope of Restoration to Come
Principle 2
God can and will restore what sin has damaged.
Application 2
How have you personally experienced God’s restoration of sin’s damage in your life?
What other promises of God about the future give you hope for today?
Division 1
Jeremiah 1 – Called to Costly Obedience
Principle 1
God equips His children for whatever His call demands.
Application 1
What challenging place or situation in your life might God be calling on you to speak for or represent Him?
Where in your life do you need to relinquish your personal control and instead rely on God’s perfect provision?
Division 2
Jeremiah – Experience of Costly Obedience
Principle 2
God works in us, through us, and for us, when obedience becomes costly.
Application 2
How do these truths bring peace and stability to your current life situation?
Division 1
Fall of Nineveh
Nahum 1-3
Principle 1: God’s wrath is an expression of His hatred for sin.
Applications:
1. When do you seek Jesus as your source of refuge and as your all-sufficient protector?
Division 2
Day of the Lord
Zephaniah 1-3
Principle 2: God wages war against sin but extends salvation.
Applications:
- How does God’s purifying wrath help you to recognize what is important and not important?
Division 1
Triumph of Judgement from the Lord
Micah 1-2
Principle 1: God’s judgement is coming to the nations.
Applications:
1. How does the promise of future judgement impact the way you treat others?
Division 2
Triumph of Justice from the Lord
Micah 3-5
Principle 2: Christ will rule the world with perfect justice.
Applications:
- How are you daily seeking justice in your relationships with others?
Division 3
Triumph of Mercy from the Lord
Micah 6-7
Principle 3: God’s mercy calls us to live rightly in this world.
Applications:
- When is it hard for you to give mercy to others?
Division 1
Suffering for Holiness
Romans 5:3-5 & Proverbs 3:11
Principle 1: God uses suffering to sanctify His people.
Applications:
1. What lessons about God have you learned in a hard season of life?
Division 2
Suffering for Others
Isaiah 53:11-13 & 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
Principle 2: God uses suffering to draw others closer to Him.
Applications:
- How is God using your hardships to help those around you?
Division 3
Suffering for God’s Glory
Romans 8:18-28 & Romans 11:36
Principle 3: God can be trusted with our suffering.
Applications:
- When are you tempted to view suffering as a penalty as opposed to an opportunity?
Division 1
Suffering Servant of Peace
Isaiah 49-57
Principle 1: Jesus our suffering substitute died for us so we may live for eternity.
Applications:
1. How willing are you to bear shame & rejection like Jesus did for you?
Division 2
Reigning King of Peace
Isaiah 58-66
Principle 2: Jesus our glorious King will reign and rule for eternity.
Applications:
- Who in your life needs to hear there is peace & rest in Jesus?
Division 1
Exile to Babylon
Isaiah 40
Principle 1: God prepares His people for difficult journeys.
Applications:
1. What is the source of your hope and strength?
Division 2
Living in Babylon
Isaiah 41-47
Principle 2: God sustains His people in difficult times.
Applications:
- How are you preparing today for eternity with God tomorrow?
Division 3
Exodus from Babylon
Isaiah 48
Principle 2: God provides for His people on difficult journeys.
Applications:
- When have you been encouraged by God’s provisions in your life?
Division 1
The Holy One offers certain hope to Judah.
Isaiah 1 - 12
Principle 1: The Holy One offers certain hope to those who trust in Him.
Applications:
1. Where have you set your gaze and your hope?
2. What are you telling yourself is more real than God and His promises?
3. What are you telling yourself is bigger or harder than God Himself?
4. It's the Holy One, Jesus Christ, who offers certain hope; and that's not just to a select few, but that's to the whole world. Where is God inviting you to trust in Him?
Division 2
The Holy One offers certain hope to the World.
Isaiah 13 - 39
Principle 2: Each warning from the Holy One presents an opportunity to embrace judgement or hope.
Applications:
- Will we trust in the promises of God?
- Will we turn to the Holy One who extends hope and lean into Him and embrace the hope that He offers? Or will we turn our faces away?
- Will we reject the signs that God has given us?
Division 1
God’s Mission for Isaiah
Isaiah 6
Principle 1: God’s messengers surrender to God’s call.
Applications:
1. What prevents you from faithfully serving when God calls you?
Division 2
God’s Message for Isaiah
Isaiah 1 - 66
Principle 2: God’s servants understand the value of His message.
Applications:
- How faithful are you to delivering God’s message of hope?
Division 1
2 Chronicles 33 (2 Kings 21) – Existence of God’s Righteousness
Principle 1
God’s righteousness requires a response.
Application 1
Where in your life may you be ignoring God’s righteous standard?
In what ways may God have used humbling or heartbreaking circumstances to deepen your faith in Him?
Division 2
2 Chronicles 34-35 (2 Kings 22-23:30) – Response to God’s Righteousness
Principle 2
God’s righteousness makes Him solely worthy of our worship.
Application 2
How does the worship of the Lord in your life compare to Josiah’s?
Howe can you ask the Lord to help give you the proper perspective of our righteous God so that His worship is the only appropriate response?
Division 3
2 Chronicles 36 (2 Kings 23:31-25) – Judgement Due to God’s Righteousness
Principle 2
God’s righteousness prevails in and through all circumstances.
Application 2
What in your life can you let go of and trust to the righteous, sovereign God, even if it seems hopeless?
Division 1
The Fall of Israel
2 Kings 15:8-31; 17
Principle 1: God desires all people to know Him.
Applications:
1. Where is God sending you to bring others closer to God?
Division 2
The Decline of Judah
2 Kings 15:1-7, 32-38; 2 Chronicles 26-28
Principle 2: God is jealous for our worship.
Applications:
- How does your worship of God match your walk with God?
Division 3
The Revival of Judah
2 Kings 18:1-8; 2 Chronicles 29-32
Principle 2: God desires us to seek Him in a crisis.
Applications:
- What crisis do you face today that you need to lay before God in prayer?
Division 1
Gomer’s Unfaithfulness
Hosea 1-3
Principle 1: God pursues and redeems the wayward.
Applications:
1. What wayward person is God calling you to seek out and demonstrate His love to?
Division 2
Israel’ Unfaithfulness
Hosea 4-14
Principle 2: God remains faithful even when people are unfaithful.
Applications:
- How is God pursuing you, to have a closer relationship with Him?
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at AZ Men's BSF! I hope you all have a blessed Christmas.
Division 1
God’s Judgment on Judah
Book of Joel
Principle 1: God triumphs over human evil.
Applications:
1. What are you holding onto that God wants to destroy, so you will trust Him deeper?
Division 2
God’s Judgment on Edom
Book of Obadiah
Principle 2: God triumphs over human pride.
Applications:
- When are you tempted to over-value yourself?
Division 1
God’s Indictments & Judgements
Amos 1-4
Principle 1: God’s judgements bring clarity.
Applications:
1. Where is personal comfort hindering your walk with God?
Division 2
God’s Call to Repentance
Amos 5-9:10
Principle 2: God’s judgements bring justice.
Applications:
- In a world that honors going your own way, how do you model repentance and seek God?
Division 3
God’s restoration of Israel
Amos 9:11-15
Principle 3: God’s judgements bring restoration.
Applications:
1. When have you encouraged others through God’s promise of restoration?
Title: Amos - Injustice
Scripture: The book of Amos 1-9
This podcast is the "pre-lecture" to the BSF lesson 13.
Division 1
Jonah Ran & God Rescued
Jonah 1-2
Principle 1: God’s mercy is not limited by human boundaries.
Applications:
1. How do you respond when God calls you to a mission of mercy?
Division 2
Jonah Preached & God Relented
Jonah 3
Principle 2: God extends mercy to all who turn to Him for salvation.
Applications:
- When has your judgement of others hindered you in sharing the gospel with them?
Division 3
Jonah Protested & God Rebuked
Jonah 4
Principle 3: God calls His people to reflect His mercy.
Applications:
1. What prevents you from extending mercy to others?
Title: Unrepentant
Scripture: Book of Jonah
Pre-lecture for the BSF Kingdom Divided Lesson 12.
God Speaks: Old Testament Prophets and Prophecy
2 Chronicles 36:15; Amos 3:7; Romans 15:4
Main Truth: God calls people to worship and obey Him alone.
Gospel Connection: God still calls sinful people to repent and turn to Him.
God actively reveals Himself throughout all time and to all people.
God calls people to worship and obey Him alone.
The Bible’s prophets help us understand God and His rescue plan.
God calls people to worship and obey Him alone.
In this video, Ken helps us to see that God's prophets spoke truth to the Kings and people who didn't want to hear the truth. The podcast follows along BSF's Kingdom Divided lesson 11 bible study.
Division 1
God’s Powerful Mercy
2 Kings 6:8-8:6
Principle 1: God’s unfailing mercy preserves His people.
Applications:
- Where is discouragement preventing you from embracing God’s mercy?
Division 2
God’s Powerful Prophecy
2 Kings 8:7-10:36; 2 Chronicles 21-22:9
Principle 2: God’s prophetic word steadies His people.
Applications:
- Which prophecy of God’s do you fall back on when the world around you is unstable?
Division 3
God’s Powerful Protection.
2 Kings 11-14; 2 Chronicles 22:10-25:28
Principle 3: God preserves His people through His absolute power.
Applications:
- How does trusting in God’s preserving power change your daily outlook?
Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 6:8-14; 2 Chronicles 21-25 This week Ken takes us through a large section of scripture and the resulting pit fails of human futility when living life apart from God.
Scripture focus: 2 Kings 4:1-6:7
This week Ken takes a closer look at the miracles of Elisha and how the relate to Jesus our Kinsman Redeemer.
Division 1
Elisha’s miracles for the desperate part 1
2 Kings 4
Principle 1: God’s power to provide our needs reveals His compassion.
Applications:
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What need in your life is leading you to depend upon the limitless compassion of God?
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How does your life show you are trusting God for your needs?
Division 2
Elisha’s miracles for the desperate part 2
2 Kings 5-6:7
Principle 2: God’s power to restore what was lost reveals His compassion.
Applications:
- What have you lost that you are seeking God to restore?
- How are you helping others to see the power of God through His compassionate provisions?
Division 1
2 Kings 2 – Grace-Filled Succession
Principle 1
God graciously raises up people to speak for Him
Application 1
How willing are you to step up and lead when God calls you?
In what circles of influence has God placed you? How are you responding?
Division 2
2 Kings 3 – Grace-Filled Victory
Principle 2
God graciously reveals His power and calls people to know Him
Application 2
How has God shown you grace in your life in specific ways that you recognize?
In what ways do you sense God’s relentless and gracious pursuit of your wholehearted devotion?
Division 1
Jehoshaphat Seeks Alliance
2 Chronicles 17-19
Principle 1: People who seek God value His Word.
Applications:
- How do you apply God’s word when making challenging decisions?
Division 2
Jehoshaphat Seeks Deliverance
2 Chronicles 20:1-30
Principle 2: People who seek God pray boldly in faith.
Applications:
- What crisis in your life needs private and community prayer?
Division 3
Jehoshaphat Seeks Legacy
2 Chronicles 20:31-21:3
Principle 3: People who seek God leave a godly legacy.
Applications:
- How will your decisions today affect others when you are gone?
This week Ken digs down on the cycles of human nature as we examine 2 Chronicles 17-21:3.
Dr. Ken takes us through some interesting insights in this "pre-lecture" video as it regards, what you might be willing to do to keep family peace over peace with God. Often many of us fall into this trap of keeping family peace over the more important keeping peace with God.
Division 1
1 Kings 22:1 – 50 Refusal to seek God despite godly advice
Principle 1
God prompts us to seek Him
Application 1
Is there a situation in your life where you haven’t been seeking God because you think you can handle it on your own?
How might turning to the God who knows all things draw you into deeper trust in Him?
Division 2
1 Kings 22:51 – 2 Kings 1 Refusal to seek God despite God’s authority
Principle 2
God wants us to seek Him
Application 2
How might God be wanting to get your attention because He wants you to seek Him?
What circumstances could He be leveraging to reach you? How will you choose to answer Him?
Division 1
Elijah’s Faith Crisis
1 Kings 19
Principle 1: God’s grace prevails when our strength fails.
Applications:
- What expectation are you holding onto that might be leading you to faith crisis?
Division 2
Ahab’s Military Crisis
1 Kings 20
Principle 2: God desires full obedience even when it doesn’t make sense.
Applications:
- When are you tempted to trust your instincts and not God’s word?
Division 3
Ahab’s Scandal
1 Kings 21
Principle 3: God extends grace to the evil.
Applications:
- Who in your life have you written off as being too evil, but the Lord wants to use you to extend His grace to them?
This podcast is the pre-lecture to the Kingdom Divided BSF lesson 5. Man says impossible, God says mission possible. Have a blessed day!
In this podcast Dr. Ken takes us through a word study on the Biblical concept of consuming fire as part of our weekly Digging Deeper Series through our BSF Kingdom Divided Study. May you all have a blessed day, and let us know how AZ Mens BSF can pray for you.
Division 1
Elijah’s Proclamation
1 Kings 15:25-17:1
Principle 1: Rejecting God and embracing idols leads to chaos and violence.
Applications:
- How do you hear God’s voice in a world that mostly rejects Him?
Division 2
Elijah’s Provisions
1 Kings 17:2-24
Principle 2: God perfectly and powerfully provides for His servants.
Applications:
- How has God met your needs in an unexpected way in this Bible study?
Division 3
Elijah’s Challenge
1 Kings 18
Principle 3: God works powerfully through our prayers.
Applications:
- What situation is God calling you to prayerfully confront in faith and courage?
In this Digging Deeper video, Dr. Ken helps us take a deeper look at the concept of hope and expectation especially from an Biblical perspective. This video goes along the BSF PPKD lesson 4. If you like the video, please consider joining us in this video ministry by liking the video and sharing the video. Have a blessed day!
This is a word study on Asherah, which morphed into a much greater study. This is a special upload to our weekly Digging Deeper series.
Division 1
2 Chronicles 13; 1 Kings 15:1-8 Momentary Faithful Devotion
Principle 1
God is worthy of our wholehearted devotion
Application 1
When in your life has God shown you mercy?
How may God be using hard times in your life to draw you back to Himself?
Where in your life do you need to let God fight for you?
What in your life might be stopping you from devoting your whole heart to our worthy, merciful, and faithful God?
Division 2
2 Chronicles 14-16; 1 Kings 15:9-24 Longstanding Faithful Devotion
Principle 2
God values our wholehearted devotion even more than our human deeds.
Application 2
What is your heart attitude towards God and why?
In what areas of your life might you be prioritizing your own response instead of wholehearted devotion to Him?
Dr. Ken helps us explore the pattern and problem of the Kings with a focus on their indifference to the Lord.
Division 1
Solomon’s Apostasy
1 Kings 11
Principle 1: God’s mercy comes in warnings.
Applications:
- When has God called you away from empty pursuits?
Division 2
Israel’s Division
1 Kings 12:1-24; 2 Chronicles 10-11:4
Principle 2: Man chooses to sin; God chooses the consequences.
Applications:
- How have you experienced God’s forgiveness amid a broken relationship?
Division 3
Jeroboam’s Corruption
1 Kings 12:25-14:20
Principle 3: God desires faithful obedience from His servants.
Applications:
- What makes it challenging to follow God 100% of the time?
Division 4
Rehoboam’s Foolishness
1 Kings 14:21-31; 2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16
Principle 4: God desires His leaders to be dependent upon Him.
Applications:
- When have you relied on the inexhaustible resources of God?
This is the pre-lecture to the Kingdom Divided BSF lesson 2. Dr. Ken will take us deep to analysis the story surrounding the prophet called the Man of God (MOG).
Division 1
Israel and Revelation
Genesis – 1 Kings 11
3 Reasons for the Authority of the Bible
Principle 1: God reveals Himself so we can know Him.
Applications:
- What are you wanting God to reveal to you during this year’s Bible study?
2. How is God using your life’s circumstances to show you need to seek Him deeper?
Division 2
Israel and Redemption
1 Kings 12 - Malachi
Principle 2: God redeems the world so we can be with Him.
Applications:
- How do you leverage this important truth about the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
- In what ways does your redemption by God, affect your outlook on life, especially in moments of suffering?
This is the pre-lecture to the Kingdom Divided BSF Lesson 1. Dr. Ken will helps us to examine the structure of the Bible from a different perspective.
Division 1
The Authority of the Bible
2 Timothy 3:16-17
3 Reasons for the Authority of the Bible
- Authority of the Bible rooted in the Authorship of the Bible
2. Inerrancy of the Bible rooted in the Inspiration of the Bible
- Profitability of the Bible rooted in the Power of the Bible
Division 2
The Relevancy of the Old Testament
Romans 15:4
7 Reasons for the Relevancy of the O.T.
- O.T. records God’s self-revelation of His character.
- O.T. introduces critical Bible doctrines.
- O.T. records judgment & salvation prophecies.
- O.T. establishes covenant ideals for human flourish.
- O.T. details near & far purposes for Israel & nations.
- O.T. reveals the Messiah through Messianic promises
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- O.T. was the Bible Jesus & the Apostles used.
This podcast wraps up the study of Matthew, with discussion about the BSF sharing night.
Division 1
Matthew 28:1-15 Resurrection & Deception
Principle 1
Christ resurrection leads to new life.
Application 1
How do you explain the resurrection of Christ to others?
What do your priorities reveal as the source of your joy?
Division 2
Matthew 28:16-20 Disciples Commissioned
Principle 2
Christ authority empowers believers to share the gospel.
Application 2
What is preventing you from “going” “baptizing” and “teaching” others about the gospel?
Who has God placed in your life to begin building a relationship with now to invite them to our next year’s study?
Division 1
Matthew 27:32-56 Crucifixion of the King
Principle 1
Jesus’ atoning sacrifice on the cross was sufficient for all.
Application 1
What part did you have in the cruelty of the cross?
How is the enemy trying to get you to walk away from the cross?
Division 2
Matthew 27:57-66 Burial of the King
Principle 2
Jesus’ burial set the stage for victory.
Application 2
How is God leading you to turn an apparent defeat into a victory?
What part of your old life do you need to bury and move forward in Jesus?
Once again, Dr. Ken challenges us with biblical tough questions in Matthew chapter 27:32-66.
Division 1
Matthew 26:47-68 God’s sovereign plans require a response
Principle 1
God works through people to seek our response to His sovereign plans
Application 1
How might God be using this lesson to draw you back to Himself, to trust His sovereign plan, and to trust Jesus who stood in the place of sinners as a substitute?
Are there opportunities in your life for you to share this truth with others?
Where has God placed you to play a part of His sovereign plans to reach others with the truth and relevance of Jesus?
Division 2
Matthew 26:69 – 27:31 God’s sovereign plans reveal people’s hearts
Principle 2
God’s sovereign plans cannot be derailed, even in the darkest of circumstances
Application 2
What in your life are you trying to control today? What is keeping you from surrendering it to the sovereign God who controls all things?
How might know that God is sovereign and in total control help stabilize your perspective in a destabilizing circumstance in your life today?
This episode we dig deeper into who was Pontius Pilate. Some of the things we uncovered my surprise you.
Division 1
Matthew 26:1-16 Devotion & Betrayal of Jesus Revealed
Principle 1
Jesus separates the faithful from the unfaithful.
Application 1
In what ways does your life show you value Jesus above all else?
How does your sacrificial giving reflect what you truly value?
Division 2
Matthew 26:17-30 Jesus Reveals the New Covenant
Principle 2
The faithful celebrate Jesus’ death until He returns.
Application 2
In what manner do you prepare your heart before approaching the communion table?
How does your life show you are thankful that you have a seat at the Lord’s table?
Division 3
Matthew 26:31-46 Jesus Reveals the Father’s Will
Principle 3
Jesus faithfully embraced His costly call to redeem sinners.
Application 3
Where are you struggling to do God’s will in your life?
What glory are you passing on because you are relying on your strength and not God’s strength?
Division 1
Matthew 25:1-13 Unexpected Midnight Call
Principle 1
A life ready for Jesus means being always prepared.
Application 1
What preparations do you need to make ready before Jesus returns?
How is the world trying to dull your joyful anticipation of Jesus’ return?
Division 2
Matthew 25:14-30 Unexpected Master’s Return
Principle 2
A life ready for Jesus means faithful stewardship.
Application 2
What is keeping you from serving Jesus now, as opposed to later?
How are you investing the treasure the Lord has invested in you?
Division 3
Matthew 25:31-46 Unexpected Mercy to Others
Principle 3
A life ready for Jesus is merciful to others.
Application 3
What evidence do you have of a life that is ready to meet Jesus face to face?
How does your daily life reflect that you know there is a better world coming?
Division 1
Matthew 24:1-35 Unexpected Destruction of the Temple
Principle 1
God provides prophetic certainty of Jesus’ return.
Application 1
How are you guarding yourself from deception as the world grows more confusing?
What safeguards are you putting in place so your family will not be deceived?
Division 2
Matthew 24:36-51 Unexpected Return of the Son of Man
Principle 2
God desires believers to live with anticipation of Jesus’ return.
Application 2
How do others recognize that you are focused on Jesus’ return?
What would you do differently if you knew Jesus was coming back next week?
Division 1
Matthew 22:15-46 Jesus passes hypocritical tests
Principle 1
Pride and hypocrisy sabotage humble submission to God.
Application 1
How will you seek to see what God sees in your heart?
Has there recently been an aspect of your life or faith that’s relied too much on pride and not submission?
Division 2
Matthew 23:1-39 Jesus passes righteous judgement
Principle 2
Refusal to humbly submit to Jesus as Savior results in His judgment and our eternal death.
Application 2
Are you holding back a part of your heart from Jesus?
What will it take for you to fully submit to Jesus?
What hypocrisy in your life might Jesus be revealing to you so that you can replace it with humble submission to Him?
This week Dr. Ken uses this section of scripture to point out how the religious leaders who were asking Jesus questions, were similar to the questions that children asking during a typical Jewish Passover meal to the elder.
Division 1
Matthew 21:18-27 The Reality of Jesus’ Authority
Principle 1
Believers submit to Jesus’ authority and produce fruit for the Kingdom.
Application 1
How are you making sure your life is more than “green leaves”?
Where are you leveraging Jesus’ authority in your daily life?
Division 2
Matthew 21:28-22:14 The Reality of God’s Wrath
Principle 2
Believers are clothed in Christ righteousness.
Application 2
Who have you invited to the Wedding feast this week?
How are you helping others to align with Jesus’ authority?
This episode we dive deeper with Dr. Ken as he challenges us as we go through the pre-lecture of Matthew chapter 21:18 - 22:14.
Division 1
Matthew 19:30 - 20:1-16 Unexpected Vineyard Wages
Principle 1
Jesus provides salvation that is not earned or deserved.
Application 1
When are you tempted to think, God has not given you enough?
How does the parable of the “Workers in the Vineyard” challenge your view on salvation?
Division 2
Matthew 20:17-34 Unexpected Servant King
Principle 2
Jesus calls believers to humbly serve in the Kingdom.
Application 2
How has God called you to humbly serve this year?
What have you learned from life through humble service?
Division 3
Matthew 21:1-17 Unexpected Temple Cleansing
Principle 3
Jesus receives our worship and praise.
Application 3
What holds you back from whole heartly praising God in public?
How do you express your daily praise to Jesus your Savior?
This episode we dive deeper with Dr. Ken as he challenges us as we go through the pre-lecture of Matthew chapter 19:30 - 21:17.
Division 1
Matthew 19:1-15 Countercultural Commitment
Principle 1
Being committed to God requires believers to be committed to His countercultural values.
Application 1
How is God calling you to be committed to Him right now?
What opportunities has God provided you to support a person that’s struggling?
How is He at work around you?
Division 2
Matthew 19:16-30 Countercultural Surrender
Principle 2
Being committed to God requires believers to offer up their complete surrender.
Application 2
How is God revealing your level of surrender to love, know, and serve Him?
How has He provided a way for you to love Him and trust Him alone?
How is He providing a new way for you to serve Him?
This episode we dive deeper with Dr. Ken as he challenges us as we through the pre-lecture of Matthew Chapter 19.
Division 1
Matthew 18:1-20 Unexpected Standard of Humility
Principle 1
Believers reflect the Father’s heart through humble actions.
Application 1
Where is God calling you to “lift-up” the overlooked in our culture?
How do you respond when you are confronted about your sin?
Division 2
Matthew 18:21-35 Unexpected Standard of Forgiveness
Principle 2
Believers reflect the Father’s heart through forgiving actions.
Application 2
Who is God calling you to forgive and extend mercy too?
What is preventing you from forgiving like Christ?
This episode we dive deeper with Dr. Ken as he challenges us as we go through the pre-lecture of Matthew chapter 18.
Dr Ken does a word study (Topical Study) on stumbling stones. The topical study goes with BSF lesson 19 Matthew Chapter 18.
Division 1
Matthew 17:1-13 Unexpected Glory
Principle 1
Jesus transforms believers through His glory.
Application 1
When have you helped others to see Jesus’ glory this year?
How are you comforted by the fact that God is more than you can imagine?
Division 2
Matthew 17:14-21 Unexpected Small Faith
Principle 2
Jesus shares His glory with believers.
Application 2
How are you currently preventing a crisis in your faith?
What “mountain” is God calling you to faithfully move this year?
Division 3
Matthew 17:22-27 Unexpected Dual Citizenship
Principle 3
Jesus provides for believers through His glory.
Application 3
How does knowing you have dual citizenship encourage godly decisions?
What is God calling you to give up, to see His glory more clearly?
This episode we dive deeper with Dr. Ken as he challenges us as we go through the pre-lecture of Matthew chapter 17.
Division 1
Matthew 16:1-12 Unexpected Sign
Principle 1
True disciples eagerly await Jesus’ coming.
Application 1
What needs to change so you can keep your focus on Jesus and His return?
How are you warning others to watch out for the yeast of the world?
Division 2
Matthew 16:13-20 Unexpected Confession
Principle 2
True disciples confess belief in Jesus to others.
Application 2
When do you find it challenging to confess Jesus to others?
How are you leading others to find the right answer to life’s ultimate question?
Division 3
Matthew 16:21-28 Unexpected Death
Principle 3
True disciples follow Jesus no matter the cost.
Application 3
How does picking up your cross, help others around you?
What cross is Jesus asking you to pickup to follow Him more closely?
Dr Ken's pre-lecture audio with challenge questions for the BSF lesson 17 covering Matthew 16.
Division 1
Matthew 15:1-20 Unexpected Defilement
Principle 1
True faith in Jesus cleanses the heart.
Application 1
How are human traditions stealing your joy in your worship of God?
When are you tempted to add to God’s word?
Division 2
Matthew 15:21-39 Unexpected Compassion
Principle 2
True faith in Jesus satisfies our deepest needs.
Application 2
What need is requiring you to cry out, “Lord, help me”?
How has Jesus sustained or strengthen you this week?
Dr. Ken's pre-lecture audio with challenge questions for the BSF Lesson 16 covering Matthew 15.
Division 1
Matthew 14:1-12 Unexpected Execution
Principle 1
The truth of Christ heals broken people.
Application 1
How do you avoid sacrificing God’s truth on the altar of peer pressure?
When has God lead you to tell the truth or take an unpopular stance even though it was costly?
Division 2
Matthew 14:13-21 Unexpected Meal
Principle 2
The truth of Christ feeds the human soul.
Application 2
When has God multiplied your resources for His glory?
How do you prevent yourself from taking credit for God’s provisions in your life?
Division 3
Matthew 14:22-36 Unexpected Rescue
Principle 3
The truth of Christ sustains our faith.
Application 3
How do you stop fear from hindering your faith journey?
What current life situation is causing you to lose courage?
Division 1
Matthew 13:311-35, 44-46 Value of Christ’s Kingdom
Principle 1
Becoming a member of Christ’s kingdom yields a priceless return.
Application 1
What in your life might be distracting you from the joy and peace found in His kingdom?
Have you experienced the comfort of trusting God and His sovereign control?
Division 2
Matthew 13:47-58 Cost of Rejecting Christ’s Kingdom
Principle 2
Rejecting Christ’s kingdom is eternally costly.
Application 2
How are you living in a way that demonstrates your value of the kingdom? Are you sharing its joy with others?
What in your life might you be treasuring more than a relationship with Jesus, and what is it costing you?
Division 1
Matthew 13:1-23 Unexpected Soils
Principle 1
Jesus’ true followers receive God’s truth and bear fruit.
Application 1
In what ways are “thorns” invading your daily life through your thoughts and actions?
Where is God opening doors for you to sow the seeds of the Gospel?
Division 2
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Unexpected Weeds
Principle 2
Jesus’ true followers prevail despite the enemy’s deception.
Application 2
When have you had to exercise godly patience in the face of evil and untruth?
How does your life demonstrate that you are pointing others to the truth of God’s Word?
Division 1
Matthew 11:1-19 Unexpected Doubt
Principle 1
Honest doubts are opportunities for spiritual growth.
Application 1
What doubts are robbing you of your Christian joy?
How can you be a help to another believer who is suffering with doubt this Christmas season?
Division 2
Matthew 11:20-30 Unexpected Unbelief
Principle 2
God holds people accountable for the revelation provided to them.
Application 2
What can we do as believers to help your city?
How does your life show that you care about your city’s spiritual condition & legacy?
Division 3
Matthew 12:1-21 Unexpected Rest
Principle 3
Believers find true rest in Jesus.
Application 3
When your soul is weary, how do you seek rest for your soul?
What is preventing you from enjoying the rest Jesus gives?
Division 4
Matthew 12:22-50 Unexpected Judgement
Principle 4
The truth claims of Jesus demand a response.
Application 4
Why do you think God is revealing the spiritual condition of others to you this year?
When has God used you to draw others closer to Him through our study of Matthew?
Division 1
Matthew 9:35-10:15 Unexpected Workers & Calling
Principle 1
Jesus’ disciples are empowered to advance His kingdom.
Application 1
What does your response to God’s call reveal about your trust in God’s provisions?
How do you measure success while working in the Lord’s harvest field?
Division 2
Matthew 10:16-31 Unexpected Persecution & Value
Principle 2
Jesus’ message will be opposed, but God values the messenger.
Application 2
What cost are you not willing to give up to follow Jesus?
Does opposition strengthen or weaken your faith?
Division 3
Matthew 10:32-42 Unexpected Cost & Rewards
Principle 3
Proclaiming Jesus on Earth, brings honor in Heaven.
Application 3
When have you decided to follow the path of the cross rather than the crowd this week?
Does picking up your cross bring peace or division to your community?
Division 1
Matthew 9:1-17 Unexpected Purpose
Principle 1
Jesus’ purposeful authority redeems mankind.
Application 1
How does forgiveness of sins, empower you to make a difference in this life?
Who do you need to faithfully bring before Jesus, for spiritual healing?
Division 2
Matthew 9:18-34 Unexpected Power
Principle 2
Jesus’ powerful authority restores new life.
Application 2
How does your life show, you rejoice more over spiritual health than physical health?
What evidence of new life in you does the world see?
Division 1
Matthew 8:1-17 Unexpected Healings
Principle 1
Jesus has authority over human suffering.
Application 1
What is broken about you that you need to take to Jesus?
How is God building your faith through the study of Matthew this year?
Division 2
Matthew 8:18-27 Unexpected Cost of Discipleship
Principle 2
Jesus has authority over His disciples.
Application 2
How does your life demonstrate that you put Jesus as a priority in your life?
What is God asking you to give up to follow Jesus more closely?
Division 3
Matthew 8:28-34 Unexpected Demon Possession
Principle 3
Jesus has authority over Satan.
Application 3
How do you respond when you feel the forces of evil coming against you?
What difficulty in your life do you need to turn over to Jesus’ authority?
Division 1
Matthew 7:1-12 Godly Wisdom in our Relationships
Principle 1
Godly wisdom enables believers to exercise love in relationships through humble dependence on God.
Application 1
Are you currently facing a situation or relationship that is challenging to show love in?
How does understanding God’s forgiveness and love for you provide you with the needed humility to frame your interactions?
Division 2
Matthew 7:13-29 Godly Wisdom in our Discernment
Principle 2
Godly wisdom enables believers to carefully discern His truth.
Application 2
How do you respond to difficult situations in life, and what does this reveal about the foundation you are building on?
Have you seen God grow your ability to discern what is pleasing to Him as your walk with Him matures?
Division 1
Matthew 6:1-18 Unexpected Motives of a Disciple
Principle 1
Believers seek to please God and not impress others.
Application 1
When are you tempted or motivated to impress others?
How do you know when you have pure motives or if your motives are polluted by desiring praise from others?
Division 2
Matthew 6:19-34 Unexpected Treasures of a Disciple
Principle 2
Focusing on eternal treasure, prevents unnecessary worry in a believer.
Application 2
What does your treasure seeking say what you value in life?
How do you push past the temptation to worry in this life?
Division 1
Matthew 5:17-20 True Righteousness Defined
Principle 1
Jesus radically transforms our definition of righteousness that is pleasing to God.
Application 1
Do God’s standards of righteousness discourage you?
How will you respond to the truth that your own actions are inadequate and not pleasing to God?
Division 2
Matthew 5:21-48 True Righteousness Demonstrated
Principle 2
Jesus radically transforms believer’s hearts and minds so that they grow in Godly righteousness.
Application 2
If you are trying to be good enough on your own, will you respond to Jesus’ free gift of salvation?
How does this lesson increase your gratitude and wonder at God’s provision of Jesus as your Savior?
How have you experienced God’s transforming work in the way you think and act, or what you desire?
Division 1
Matthew 5:1-12 Unexpected Disciple’s Character
Principle 1
Jesus disciples find their identity in Him.
Application 1
How has following Jesus changed the way you think and live?
What beatitude is God working deeper into you this week?
Division 2
Matthew 5:13-16 Unexpected Disciple’s Influence
Principle 2
Jesus disciples influence the world for Him.
Application 2
How is your saltiness creating a thirst for Jesus to those around you?
When do you find it challenging to shine your light for Jesus?
Division 1
Matthew 4:1-11 An Unexpected Test
Principle 1
God has made away to defeat temptations.
Application 1
How does your temptations undermine your trust in God’s word?
What was the turning point in gaining victory over your temptations?
Division 2
Matthew 4:12-25 An Unexpected Ministry
Principle 2
Jesus calls people to follow Him.
Application 2
When do you find it difficult to follow Jesus?
How does your life show you are following Jesus?
Division 1
Matthew 3:1-12 An Unexpected Preacher
Principle 1
God calls people to repent and turn to Jesus.
Application 1
How is God calling you to preach a message of repentance?
What fruit in your life shows others that you follow Jesus?
Division 2
Matthew 3:13-17 An Unexpected Baptism
Principle 2
God the Father was pleased with Jesus prior to His earthly ministry.
Application 2
How does your character reveal you take pleasure in Jesus like God the Father?
Where is God working on your character to prepare you to serve Him?
Division 1
Matthew 2:1-12 A Divinely Guided Visit
Principle 1
God draws people of all nations to worship King Jesus.
Application 1
How is God drawing you to seek Him in your current situation?
What unexpected journey does God want you to take for Jesus?
Division 2
Matthew 2:13-23 A Divinely Prompted Exit
Principle 2
King Jesus’ mission was unexpected and unstoppable.
Application 2
When did you experience God’s sovereign guidance and protection?
What prevents or hinders you from aligning your will with God’s will?
Division 1
Matthew 1:1-17 A Royal Genealogy
Principle 1
Jesus became a man to fulfill God’s plan to save sinners.
Application 1
What decision does God want you to make that will ripple through your family tree?
How are you hesitating from faithfully following all of God’s plan for your life?
Division 2
Matthew 1:18-25 A Supernatural Conception.
Principle 2
Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, fully God and fully human.
Application 2
Where is God calling you to trust Him before you know all the details?
How does your life demonstrate that you have embraced the truth of; Jesus is fully man and fully God?
Division 1
Genesis – Revelation: The Unexpected Revelation of God.
Principle 1
The Bible is the revelation of a loving God.
Application 1
How has your life changed through the reading of the Bible?
What experiences about your Christian journey would encourage others to read the Bible?
Division 2
Matthew Ch. 1-28 The Unexpected Savior.
Principle 2
The book of Matthew reveals that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior King.
Application 2
In what unexpected ways are you planning to take the message of the gospel to your friends and family this year?
Which teachings of Jesus currently challenge your perspective on life?