Reformation Presbyterian Church – Sermons: Recent Episodes

Reformation Presbyterian Church (Olympia, WA)

Sermons preached at Reformation Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Olympia, WA.

Because of his willingness to suffer for you, Jesus has been exalted above all others and will rule in the midst of his enemies until the final day and calls you to freely offer yourself wholly to him in gratitude for all he has done.

David and Melchizedek (vv. 1-2, 4-7; Genesis 14:17-20)
Jesus, the Greater David (Matthew 22:44; Mk 12:36; Lk 20:42; Acts 2:29-36)
Between Resurrection and Consummation (vv. 3-4; Romans 8:17)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Is Psalm 110 familiar to you? In what ways? Why do you think it is quoted so many times in the New Testament?

Tuesday—How was this psalm a fitting psalm to be sung at David’s coronation? What does it tell us about his life before becoming king and what to expect after he became king?

Wednesday—Who was Melchizedek? Why does God us Melchizedek as a model for David as be becomes king in Israel?

Thursday—How is Psalm 110 fulfilled in Jesus? Why must be both king and priest? Is there temptation to want him as king (rule), but not as priest (suffering)? Why?

Friday—What should God’s people expect between Jesus’ resurrection and his return? (v. 2) What does it mean to freely offer yourself to him while you wait? (v. 3)

While we await God’s justice on the Last Day, we must be on guard against those in the church who might be working against it, removing them and raising up others to take their place, for the sake of God’s honor.

David and His Betrayer (vv. 1-25, 27, 30-31)
Jesus and His Betrayer (v. 8, 28; Acts 1:15-26)
The Church and Her Betrayers (vv. 27-29)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is an imprecatory psalm? Do they make you uncomfortable? If so why?

Tuesday—Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trust and have shown love? How do you think David felt when one of his officers did that to him?

Wednesday—How did this officer’s betrayal affect the people of Israel? How is that worse than if this were simply a personal betrayal of David? How does God feel about leaders mistreating his people?

Thursday—What was Judas’ sin? How did he view his position of authority? Why do you think the apostles chose to quote Psalm 109 about him?

Friday—How does it make you feel when leaders in the church use their authority for their own glory and gain? How does Psalm 109 help us understand how to deal with those who do?

The fact that any good happens to man is not a result of man’s worthiness, but of God’s gracious love and his willingness to suffer for those whom he loves.

David’s Glory and Shame (vv. 3-8)
Christ’s Shame and Glory (Hebrews 2:6-9)
Sleepless Nights (vv. 1-3, 7-8, 19)

Your greatest strength is that you belong to God.

Chosen and Consecrated (vv. 4-8)
Calling and Commission (vv. 1-5, 9-13)
Cruciformity and Courage (vv. 1-3, 7-8, 19)

Discussion Starters

Monday—How do you typically answer the question “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Do you like this question? Why or why not?

Tuesday—Is it fair that God chose Jeremiah and called him to be a prophet with out Jeremiah’s permission? What does it mean that we are “…living in the middle of a story that was begun and will be concluded by another”?

Wednesday—What did God expect from prophets? What didn’t he expect? Even though you’re not a prophet, how does this help you know what God does and doesn’t expect from you?

Thursday—What is “cruciformity”? What does it mean that God is shaping you by his word? What does the finished product look like?

Friday—What leads you to fear as you face the road ahead? What is God’s cure for your fear?

Those who have seen Jesus and are nourished on his gospel take no greater delight than in taking up their cross and disappearing into his story.

Imitating Evil (vv. 9-11; Isaiah 14:12-14)
Imitating Good (vv. 11-12; Isaiah 6:1-5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the goal of the Christian life? What does God call you to and what does he want you to avoid?

Tuesday—What do you typically think of when you think of evil? Read Isaiah 14:12-14. What was Satan’s great act of evil in the beginning? What should we learn from that?

Wednesday—How does Diotrephes imitate the devil? What does he teach us to watch out for in the church? What qualities are most important in leaders in the church?

Thursday—Who was Demetrius? (v. 12) Was he well known? Why do you think 3 John references to mostly unknown, common servants in the church? Why is it significant that “the Truth” bears testimony to Demetrius? Who is the Truth? (cf. John 14:6)

Friday—What does it mean that those who do evil have never seen God? (v. 11) What does it means to see God? (cf. Isaiah 6:5; Luke 5:8) What should seeing Jesus for who he is do to your ambition and pride?

We will see that, in the Bible, victory comes through defeat, life through death and deliverance through suffering.

How the Mighty Have Fallen (vv. 1-4)
Confident of Victory (vv. 6-8)
To Sleep... To Die (v. 5; Matthew 10:34-39)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the story “The Emperor’s New Clothes” about? Have you ever felt like everyone can see through you and see all your sins, faults, and blemishes? How did that make you feel?

Tuesday—Why does David feel so defeated in the beginning of Psalm 3? Why does he question whether the Lord will deliver him? Have you ever felt that way? When?

Wednesday—Why is David afraid to sleep? What does it mean to hang his head? What would it mean for God to lift it?

Thursday—Why does the Lord deliver David? What does it mean that God is his glory? Where does the Lord want you to seek comfort when you feel overwhelmed by shame?

Friday—What does it mean to lose your life for Jesus’ sake? Is this something you just do once or repeatedly?

Because Jesus is the main character in history, we all have supporting parts, but in his family there are no small parts.

Gaius (and the Missionaries… and the Gentiles) (vv. 1, 5-7)
Faithful Partner (vv. 5, 8)
Worthy of God’s Joy (vv. 2-4, 6)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever felt pressured to do full-time ministry? What was the reason given? How did it make you feel?

Tuesday—Who was Gaius? What made him unique? Why was a letter to him preserved as scripture for us to read?

Wednesday—What does it mean to be a “faithful partner”? What do you think God has called you to do in his family? What does faithfulness look like in light of that calling?

Thursday—How did Jesus show you love? Whom was he serving? How if faithfully serving the church like Gaius did a reflection of the love of Jesus?

Friday—Do you believe God rejoices when you humbly serve in the ways that he has gifted you and called you to serve? What are some ways you believe the Lord is calling to love and serve the church?

We are to give no place in our churches or our hearts to false teachers who teach contrary to the teachings of Christ.

Imposters (vv. 7-9)

Shutting the Door to the Church (vv. 10-11)

Shutting the Door to your Heart (vv. 8, 12-13)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is an “imposter”? (v. 7) Is John focussed on false teaching outside the church or inside? What motivates false teachers?
Tuesday—What does it mean to shut the doors against false teachers? How can leaders do that?
Wednesday—Is it unloving to put false teachers out of the church? Why or why not? What happens to the church if leaders do not guard against false teachers?
Thursday—Why is false teaching attractive? What do false teachers promise? What does it mean to watch yourself? (v. 8)
Friday—What are the unique challenges that that belong to our modern age when it comes to false teaching? Where does the Lord call you to look for guidance and direction? Why?

Those who love Jesus love his church and seek grace, mercy, and peace for those who belong to it.

The Source of Joy (vv. 1, 4)
The Source of Love (vv. 1-2)
The Call to Love (vv. 3, 5-6)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What are some the different ways that John could have referred to himself in his letter? Why do you think he simply referred to himself as “the elder”? (cf. 1 Peter 1:5) How does this help us think about how we should relate to each other?

Tuesday—Why does John rejoice in verse 4? Why does the fact that Christians are loving each other bring him joy? Why does it bring God joy?

Wednesday—Why do you think that so many professing Christians have nothing to do with a local congregation? What scares us about investing in a congregation?

Thursday—Where does true love come from? If you are to love others, on whom must you depend? What are some things you can be doing to keep that reality in mind as you seek to obey the command to “love one another”?

Friday—What is grace? What is mercy? What is peace? What does it mean to seek these for your fellow Christians? Is this easy or hard?

Your greatest desire in life should be for Jesus and for others to find life in him before it’s too late.

John’s Hope and Prayer (vv. 13-15)
Sin Unto Death (vv. 16-17)
Jesus, Our Confidence (vv. 18-21)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is John’s chief desire for his readers? (vv. 13-15) How does this shape what he writes and how he prays? How might your prayers need to change to reflect these priorities?

Tuesday—What does it mean to “sin to death”? Is this a particular kind of sin or a refusal to repent? Is anyone ever without hope of forgiveness if their is still breath in their lungs?

Wednesday—What should you pray for most for those you love? Is that what your prayers look like? Who are people in your life whom you should be praying for salvation or returning to the Lord?

Thursday—What does it mean that “everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning”? (v. 18) Should you be scared that you are not a Christian just because you continue to sin?

Friday—Why doesn’t Jesus just keep us from humiliating failures and sins? Why does he pray for us to return and not to just never sin?

In Jesus’ baptism, crucifixion, and resurrection the Father has born witness that he is the perfect Savior and our only hope of salvation.

There are Three that Testify (vv. 6-8)
The Divine Witness and Our Response (vv. 9-13)

Discussion Starters

Monday—When is the right time to think about the Last Day or when you face the Lord? What are the two extremes that people tend to fall into when they think about that day?

Tuesday—What does baptism represent? Why was Jesus baptized? Why is the Father’s declaration of his pleasure with Jesus so important? (Matthew 3:16-17)

Wednesday—Why did Jesus have to die? Why was it important that the Father again testified to his pleasure with his Son as his death approached? (John 12:27-28)

Thursday—What does it mean that Jesus was shown to be the Son of God by the resurrection? (Romans 1:1-4) What does the resurrection confirm about Jesus’ ability to save his people?

Friday—Why has God left you 1 John? (Read 1 John 5:10-13) Where can you find comfort for a sensitive conscience?

David teaches us to boast in our weakness for, though it is foolish to the world and humbling, it is where God’s power is made perfect and we find life.

Wisdom According to a Madman (vv. 1-22)
Apostolic Insanity (2 Corinthians 11:1 - 12:13)
Wisdom in the Flesh (John 19:31-36; 2 Corinthians 4:7-18)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is wisdom literature? How does this differ from common assumptions about wisdom?

Tuesday—Why did David pretend to be insane when he was in Gath (1 Samuel 21:10-15)? How did his insanity save him? What lesson does he want us to glean from that?

Wednesday—Why does Paul claim to be a madman (2 Corinthians 11:23)? Is he ashamed of his foolishness? Why not?

Thursday—Why did God allow Paul to continue to endure affliction (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)? What does that teach you about affliction in your life? Is it proof that God has abandoned you or is angry at you?

Friday—How does the cross of Christ embody the foolishness of Psalm 34? Why is it significant that John 19:36 quotes Psalm 34:20? Does this mean that you will never break a bone? What does it mean for you?

Because God is love, his children must love each other and even those hate them.

Born of God… (vv. 1-3)
…to Love the Church (vv. 1-3)
…to Love the World (vv. 1, 4-5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean to be “born of God”? What are some things that are true of all who are born of God? (vv. 1-3)

Tuesday—What does it mean that all who love the Father love his children? (v. 2) How does love for God call us to view his church?

Wednesday—Why is there so much division in the church? Is all division bad? What are some valid in invalid reasons for division?

Thursday—Why does John choose “overcome” rather than “conquer” the world in verse 4? (cf. Romans 12:21) What does it mean to overcome the world?

Friday—Where is God calling you to grow in what it means to love his people and love the world? What do you need to confess? What do you need to forgive?

Baptism preaches the message of the Gospel to God’s people and seals it with His promise that all who trust in the blood of Jesus will be saved.

The New Covenant Promise
Water Imagery
God Speaks

Love is the sacrificial concern for others that defines God and should define us as we reflect God’s love to those around us.

The Beginning of Love (vv. 7-8, 10, 12-13, 19)
The Manifestation of Love (vv. 9-10, 14)
The End of Love (vv. 8, 12, 15-17, 19-21)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that God is love? What does that tell you about understanding and practicing love?

Tuesday—How is love made visible? What does the cross of Jesus tell you about the nature of love? How should that be reflected in your life?

Wednesday—Do you ever doubt that God loves you? Why? Where should you look for confidence that he loves you?

Thursday—Is it possible to be a Christian and not show love to others? What does it mean to love actual people?

Friday—What does it mean that “love perfected is love reflected”? Who are some people in your life that God is calling you to show love?

Teachers show themselves to be true by preaching Jesus Christ crucified, a stumbling block and foolishness to the world.

True and False Spirits (vv. 1-3; John 1:1-14)
Greater is He Who is in You (vv. 4-6)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Is it shocking or concerning that there are so many “versions” of Christianity? Why or why not? Why does the devil promote false versions of the true religion and not just totally different religions?

Tuesday—Can you truly believe in Jesus if you believe he is just a man, an angel, or any other created thing? Why must you believe that he is the uncreated, eternal Creator? (John 1:1-3)

Wednesday—What does John mean that Jesus “came in the flesh”? Does he just talking about Jesus becoming man or is there something more? What is it?

Thursday—Why are false teachers so successful? (v. 5) What hope do you have of not being led astray by false teachers? (vv. 4, 6)

Friday—What is Christianity about? Morality? Changing the world? Who Jesus is and what we do with him? What happens when we get God’s priorities out of order?

God calls you to follow Abel’s model of living sacrifice rather than Cain’s model of bitter envy.

Cain or Abel (v. 11-12; Genesis 4:1-11)

Glory or the Cross

Hate or Love (vv. 13-24)

Discussion Starters

Monday—In what way is 1 John a book of antitheses? What are some of them? Why does John press these?

Tuesday—Did Abel do anything wrong to Cain? Why did Cain hate Abel?

Wednesday—What is a theologian of glory? What is a theologian of the cross? Which are you called to be? Why?

Thursday—What does it mean that you are called to lay down your life for your brothers? What is the model that you follow? Is this hard or easy?

Friday—What hope do you have when your heart condemns you? (v. 20) How can you pray when that happens?

Love is an unmistakable family trait—one that all God’s children have.

Two Families (2:28-29; 3:8-10)
Shrinking back in Shame? (2:28 - 3:8)
Love and Abide (2:28; 3:10)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is shame? Have you experienced shame? What did it make you want to do?

Tuesday—What two families can the world be divided into? (2:28-29; 3:8-10; Matthew 25:31-46) Is this an overly simplistic way to view the world? Why or why not?

Wednesday—Why is adoption another term for salvation? What drives God to adopt us as his children? (3:1; Ephesians 1:5) What does that tell you about who God is?

Thursday—Is this passage saying that Christians never sin? What particular sin does John have in mind that should not define God’s children? (3:10)

Friday—How can you grow in love and fight anger, bitterness, and hate in your heart? (2:28) What does it mean to “abide in him”? What are some things you can do to help you abide in him?

The last days will be known for false teachers and we must be all the more sure to cling to the truth of the gospel.

Antichrists (vv. 18-19, 22, 26)
Anointing (vv. 20, 23, 27a)
Abide in Jesus (vv. 21, 24-25, 27b)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the “last hour”? What characterizes it? How do we know that we are living in the last hour?

Tuesday—Why do you think that the last days are known for a multiplication of false teachers? How can you spot them? What do they all have in common?

Wednesday—What is the anointing that John refers to in this passage? How is it meant to be a comfort to you? Can the Holy Spirit be taken away from you?

Thursday—Can you have the Father, but not the Son? What about the Father without the Holy Spirit? How does this help you identify false teaching and false gospels?

Friday—What hope do you have of standing strong in the face of false teaching? What are some ways that God strengthens your faith?

True faith shows itself in love toward others, even seeking good for your enemies.

True Believers Bear Fruit (vv. 3-6, 15-17)
A New Commandment (vv. 5, 7-11)
Mature and Maturing (vv. 12-14)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why is it a lie to say that being a Christian doesn’t require a changed life? Why can’t you be a Christian if there is no change in your heart or life?

Tuesday—What are the things of the world? Why does being a Christian change your affections toward them? Are there areas that you need to pray for God to change your heart toward the pleasures of this world?

Wednesday—What is old about John’s commandment? What is new about it? Do you struggle to love those who mistreat you? Why? What do you think would help you have Jesus’ heart toward them?

Thursday—If you still sin, is that proof that you are not a Christian? What is John saying when he talks about Christians living like Jesus lived?

Friday—Are all Christians equally mature in their faith? What are some things that God has given you to help you grow in your faith? Are you making use of these?

Sometimes, in order to move forward, you have to first go backwards.

The Frustration of Losing Ground (vv. 1-9)
The Tyranny of Emotions (and Where we Find Help) (vv. 1-20)
When You Can’t See God (v. 19)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever been confident of God’s love at one point and then doubted it? What led to your confidence? What led to your doubt?

Tuesday—Why shouldn’t we be afraid to be honest with God about our feelings, our doubts, and our questions? Should we stop at asking questions, or should we also seek answers?

Wednesday—Are emotions bad? Why or why not? What are some of the traps that emotions lay for us? Have you experienced this in your own life?

Thursday—Are you as likely to question God’s love for you as you are to question God’s love for others? Why or why not? Why does this make the church community so important when times are hard?

Friday—How is God’s love for his people demonstrated in history? Where can you look when you are tempted to doubt his love?

Hope is found, not in hiding or denying our sin, but bringing everything into the light so that it can be forgiven.

Walking in the Light (1:5-7)
Our Helper (2:1-2)
The Way of Forgiveness (1:8-10)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Do you ever lie to yourself? How? What do you typically try to convince yourself of? Why would anyone lie to themself?

Tuesday—Why do we turn on lights? What does light do? What does it mean that God is light? Why does this scare us?

Wednesday—What is a propitiation or atoning sacrifice? How does it work? What does it mean that Jesus is ours?

Thursday—Why does admitting or confessing our sins scare us? Why is it the only way forgiveness? Do you need to come and confess sin to God?

Friday—Does God’s offer of forgiveness sometimes sound too good to be true? How do you know it’s true? How do you know God won’t change his mind?

The eternal God has revealed himself by becoming man and invites us into fellowship with him so that we might have life in him.

The Eternality of God (vv. 1-2)
The Revelation of God (vv. 1-4)
Fellowship with God (vv. 3-4)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What was “from the beginning”? (v. 1) What does that mean? What is John saying about God? Is there anyone like?

Tuesday—What does it mean that God is life and that creatures became living beings? (Genesis 1:20-21, 24; 2:8) Is it possible to have life apart from God? What does it mean “you were dead in your sins and trespasses”? (Ephesians 2:1)

Wednesday—What does it mean that Jesus is “the word”? (v. 1) What does “made manifest” mean? (v. 2) Is it possible to know God apart from Jesus Christ?

Thursday—What does it mean that you are invited into fellowship with the Father and the Son? (v. 3) What does it mean to have fellowship with God?

Friday—The word for “testify” (v. 2) is martyr. What does it mean that the apostles are martyrs? Why can they do this with joy? (v. 4)

The safest place in the universe is to be surrendered to God.

The Competition for Glory (vv. 1, 5)
Vain is the Salvation of Man (vv. 5-13)
With God We Shall do Valiantly (vv. 1-4, 13)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why do we crave safety (and fear danger)? What can that craving sometimes lead us to do when it comes to trusting God?

Tuesday—In what ways do we compete with God for glory? How does this affect our worship? How does it corrupt worship?

Wednesday—What does verse 12 mean when it says “vain is the salvation of man”? What happens when we place our trust in ourselves or fellow man?

Thursday—What does it means, “with God we shall do valiantly?” (v. 13) How are God’s love and faithfulness (v. 4) meant to comfort us?

Friday—What hope is there for you when you realize you’ve been holding things back from God? Why is it important that this psalm was written after Israel’s time in captivity?

God’s people can be content and find comfort in the midst of great affliction because God goes with them into that affliction and shields them from the danger—eternal wrath—by bearing it for them in love.

David’s Confession (Psalm 23)
Christ’s Declaration (John 4:31-34; 6:5-11; 10:11-18)
Our Hope and Confidence

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14)? Why is David calling God his shepherd, the highest compliment he can give?

Tuesday—How is Psalm 23 connected to Psalm 22? Why is Psalm 23 the perfect psalm to follow Psalm 22? Look especially at Psalm 22:1 and Psalm 23:4.

Wednesday—In what ways does David borrow imagery from Israel’s wandering in the wilderness? Does this mean he is in an actual wilderness? What does David’s use of this imagery teach us about how we might employ those same lessons in our lives?

Thursday—What does Jesus mean when he says that he is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-18)? Do you think he has Psalm 23 in mind when he said that? Why or why not?

Friday—What does it mean that God is with you in the midst of trials and afflictions (v. 4)? Does this mean that you will have no problems? Is where does it teach you to set your hope (v. 6)?

When you are afraid, you can trust in the God who hears you and will deliver you.

God Allows You to go through the Wilderness (vv. 1-7)
God Hears You when you Weep (vv. 8-11)
God is with You in the Wilderness (vv. 12-13)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What are the different things that people tend to fear? Which do you tend to fear the most?

Tuesday—What does the wilderness represent in the Bible? How is it a fitting picture of the Bible’s description of life in this world?

Wednesday—Why are the attackers said to work their wickedness “all day long”? Why are the enemies of God’s people able to oppress God’s children in broad daylight?

Thursday—Does weeping show a lack of faith? How do we know? What are laments? Why are they appropriate in this world?

Friday—What does “if God is for us, who can be against us?” mean (Romans 8:31)? What kind of comfort does this offer you?

The resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day is God’s sign to assure us that salvation belongs to our God and has been accomplished.

The Enemy at the Gate (v. 1; 2 Kings 18-19)
The King at Death’s Door (vv. 1-7)
The Sign of Comfort (vv. 8-11)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What are some of the bold claims of Christianity? Why is the resurrection a bold claim? Is it an important claim? Why? (1 Corinthians 15:12-19)

Tuesday—What’s at stake if Hezekiah dies? What’s at stake if he dies without an heir? How does his life or death represent the future of the the people?

Wednesday—What are some parallels between Hezekiah’s story in this passage and Jesus’ story? Is that an accident or intentional? What do you think God wants you to learn about Jesus from 2 Kings 20?

Thursday—How was the retreating shadow a fitting sign of what God had promised Hezekiah? How was it a sign of what Jesus, the greater king, would do?

Friday—What signs has God given to comfort you? What do they signify? How are they meant to be a comfort? Do you remember to stop and take comfort in them?

Godly wisdom teaches us to recognize God’s love in his discipline and to give thanks for it.

Consider the Steadfast Love of the Lord (vv. 1-3, 43)
God’s Love Demonstrated (vv. 4-32)
God’s Love Embodied (vv. 8, 15, 21, 31; cf. John 1:14)
Walking in Wisdom (vv. 33-43)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Verse 43 tells us to consider the steadfast love of the Lord. What does it mean to consider something? Why does it take effort to understand God’s love?

Tuesday—Why do each of the four episodes in this psalm say, “Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress”? (vv. 6, 13, 19, 28) Why do each of them say, “Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!”? (vv. 8, 15, 21, 31)

Wednesday—What are some ways that Jesus embodied the language from Psalm 107? What does it mean that he is “God’s love embodied”? Read John 1:14.

Thursday—Read Psalm 107:38. Why is important to point out that all the blessings listed in this psalm are God’s? How can this help when you think there is no way God could love you when your stuck in sin?

Friday—What does it mean to “walk in wisdom”? Read 1 Corinthians 1:20-25. What are some ways that God’s wisdom is different than the world’s wisdom? How does this change the way you see the world?

Sin is ugly and destructive, but we have a faithful Savior who stands in the breach ready to save all who repent and come to him.

The Ugliness of Sin (vv. 6-33)
- Corporate (vv. 6-12)
- Impatient (v. 13-15; Numbers 11:1-15, 31-35)
- Jealous (vv. 16-18; Numbers 16:1-40)
- Idolatrous (vv. 19-23; Exodus 32:1-8)
- Rejects His Gifts (vv. 24-27; Numbers 13-14)
- Corrupts Others (vv. 32-33; Numbers 20:2-13)
- Polluted (vv. 34-39; Joshua 1-2)
- The End and Beginning of Sin (vv. 7, 13, 21, 40-43)
- The End—Exile (vv. 40-43)
- The Beginning—Forgetting (vv. 7, 13, 21)
- Hope for Prodigals (vv. 4, 23, 28-31, 44-48; Numbers 25; Luke 23:39-42)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Read Jeremiah 29:10-14. After 70 years in exile, what did Israel need to do? What kind of prayer was God telling them they needed to pray? Why?

Tuesday—What are some of the things that Psalm 106 reminds us about what sin looks like? Have you seen this to be true in your own life? Why does God want you to see this?

Wednesday—Where does sin end? Where does it begin? What does God want you to guard against forgetting? (vv. 7, 13, 21)

Thursday—What does it mean to "stand in the breach”? Why do you think the thief on the cross chose to quote Psalm 106 when he asked Jesus for mercy? (v. 4; Luke 23:42)

Friday—Do you ever feel like a prodigal? What hope is there for you when you do? How can Psalm 106 help you during those times?

Heartfelt worship flows out of remembering who God is and what he has done in the past so that we might have confidence as we look to the future.

Worship as it Should Be (vv. 1-6)
What We Remember (vv. 7-45)
Why We Remember

Discussion Starters

Monday—Read verses 1-6. How does it describe worship? Is this simply an external exercise or does it go deeper (v. 3)? Does this kind of worship come naturally to you or is it hard?

Tuesday—What is it that makes worship hard? What do you need to combat this? What do you need more than anything if you are to praise and worship God with a joyful heart?

Wednesday—What does it meant that God remembers? (v. 7) Is he in danger of forgetting? If not, why does the Bible tell us he remembers? What does he remember?

Thursday—What is Joseph’s story? Why does verse 17 say that God sent Joseph? What did he send him to do? How did he do it? Who was he meant to teach us about? How?

Friday—How did later generations of Israelites use this psalm? How are you meant, all these years later, to benefit from it? What does it mean that you are an exile? How does Psalm 105 speak into your reality?

We do not suffer as those without hope, so our lives should be characterized by love while we await the return of our glorious Savior on the Last Day.

Work of Faith (1 Thessalonians 2:1-16, 2:17-3:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12)
Steadfastness of Hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)
Labors of Love (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12, 5:12-28; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17, 3:1-5, 3:6-15)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean to “walk by faith, not by sight”? (2 Cor 5:7) Is it easy to do or hard? Why?

Tuesday—How do 1 & 2 Thessalonians teach you to see (by faith) that you are loved by God and belong to his family? Is this where you typically look for God’s love? How can this help you as you grow to understand this?

Wednesday—What is biblical hope? Why is it called hope? Why do you think Paul keeps pointing the Thessalonians to the Last Day when he talks to them about hope? Where do you tend to look for hope?

Thursday—Why does love require sacrifice? How are you called to sacrificially love your family and those in the church? How are you called to sacrificially love those outside the church?

Friday—What does it look like to experience God’s peace in an unpeaceful world? What do you think you need most in order to do this?

In imitation of Jesus, every Christian is called to contribute and serve others as he or she is able—refusing to do so is a dereliction of duty.

The Bible and the Poor (Deuteronomy 24; Leviticus 19:9; 23:22; Matthew 5:42)
A Gospel Issue (vv. 6-9)
Rejecting Your Christian Identity (vv. 10-18)

Discussion Starters

Monday—How does God feel about the poor? How do you know? (Deuteronomy 24; Leviticus 19:9; 23:22; Matthew 5:42) Is this your heart or do you need to grow in this area?

Tuesday—What was the issue with some in Thessalonica? (v. 10) Why was this a gospel issue? (cf. Matthew 20:26-28; 2 Corinthians 8:9)

Wednesday—What is wrong with not being willing to help or contribute? What are you telling other people with your actions? Do you desire to do your share or are you more content to let others do your share?

Thursday—How is the way we help and serve others connected to our identity as Christians? Is there anything the Lord is calling you to repent for and change?

Friday—How can you harmonize Paul’s words “we [did not] eat anyone’s bread without paying for it” (v. 8) with Isaiah’s “Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price”? (55:1) How does Isaiah help you understand what Paul is not saying in 2 Thessalonians 3?

In the face of adversity, the Lord teaches us to pray for protection and for the salvation of those who mistreat us.

Prayer for Protection (vv. 2-4)
Confidence in the Lord (v. 3)
Hearts of Love (vv. 1, 5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Is it overwhelming at all to you how much 1 and 2 Thessalonians talk about adversity that should expect to face? Why? How are you tempted to respond to hard times?

Tuesday—What do you think it means to pray for protection from those who mistreat you? Does it mean that you will never be mistreated? If not, what does it mean?

Wednesday—What is prayer? What is it not? When is prayer hard? When is it comforting?

Thursday—What does it mean to “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”? (Mat 5:44) Why is this hard? Is it optional in the Christian life? Who are some people who have mistreated you that God is calling on you to pray for?

Friday—How often do you pray for your church to stand against the attacks of the evil one? What are some ways you can be praying for your church?

The Holy God speaks to us from the throne of atonement, commanding us to come to him.

The Holy God
The Throne of Atonement
The King Speaks

Discussion Starters

Monday—Do you have to be perfect to be in God’s presence? Why or why not?

Tuesday—What covenant obligations do you have to God? What obligations does he have to you?

Wednesday—Do you live every day in the light of Christ’s atoning sacrifice? Do you ever forget it? What replaces him when you do?

Thursday—Why should you obey God? What other ulterior motives sneak into your obedience?

Friday—If you’re feeling distant from God, where should you go? What should you start doing?

God desired to physically dwell with us forever, so he became flesh, saved us from our sin, and is coming back bodily.

Restoring Eden
Incarnational Theology
A New Eden

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why does God want to dwell with his people? How has he shown this is his goal throughout the story of Redemption?

Tuesday—Are material things inherently good or bad? Does God care about the material world?

Wednesday—How can you worship and glorify God physically at church? What about during your week?

Thursday—What was the purpose of the incarnation? Will Jesus be incarnate forever? What does that mean for your relationship to him when he returns?

Friday—Why does the New Jerusalem not have a temple? How is God physically present with you today?

Rooted in Jesus’ love and grace, we are called to stand firm and walk in obedient devotion to our God, while we await his glorious return.

Loved by God (vv. 12-14)
Established in Every Good Work and Word (vv. 16-17)
Stand Firm (v. 15)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why does Paul begin and end this section with God’s love for you? What happens when you doubt God’s love?

Tuesday—Is the fact that God chooses us and we don’t choose him (v. 13) an offensive doctrine or a comforting one? Why? What drives God’s choice?

Wednesday—What are some ways false teaching harms people? What can you do to stand firm against false teaching?

Thursday—Why are worldly pleasures tempting when times are hard? How is God calling you to stand firm against the temptations of the world?

Friday—What is despair? Why is it tempting when times are hard? Why is it wrong for Christians to give in to despair?

Jesus is the consuming fire who came and dwelt among us, and who calls us to ascend the mountain of his presence in faith to receive his Word.

The Consuming Fire
Ascending the Mountain
Receiving His Word

Discussion Starters

Monday—Is it safe to approach God if he is a consuming fire? Do you keep God at a distance?

Tuesday— How does Jesus dwell with us today? Is he still a consuming fire? Is that a good or bad thing?

Wednesday—Why do we need to approach Jesus in faith? How do you typically approach him?

Thursday—What/who do you receive in God’s Word? What happens to you when you receive his Word?

Friday—Do you read your Bible regularly? If not, why not? Why should you?

Christians need to be prepared for the Man of Lawlessness who will lead many in the church away from the truth.

The MOL (vv. 3-4)
God is Restraining Satan (vv. 5-12)
The Point of Knowing these Things (vv. 2-3, 5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—How do you usually respond to passage about the end times? Excitement? Fear? Apprehension? Why? Why are these passages recorded in scripture?

Tuesday—Who is the Man of Lawlessness? Why is it particularly important for Christians to hear the warning that he will exalt himself and take his seat “in the temple”? (v. 4)

Wednesday—The word “rebellion” in verse 3 is really “apostasy.” What is apostasy? Can you fall way if you are truly saved? (1 John 2:18-19; Matthew 24:24; John 6:37, 39) So, if true believers can’t fall away, why is there a warning about a great apostasy?

Thursday—What’s the best way to protect yourself against false teachers? What are telltale signs of false teachers?

Friday—Why don’t you need to fear things getting worse? Why don’t you need to fear the Man of Lawlessness? What is your great comfort? (v. 8)

Because justice is reserved for the last day, those who are deemed worthy of heavenly glory are counted worthy to suffer for Jesus in this life.

The Implications of God’s Justice (vv. 6-10)
You Are Worthy (vv. 3-5, 9, 11)
To God Alone be the Glory (vv. 1-4, 12)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Can you think of any time in your life where your expectations weren’t met? How did you respond? Did you question your expectations? Why/why not?

Tuesday—Have you ever been tempted to question whether or not you belong to God because of the circumstances in your life? Why is this so easy to do? What does it feel like?

Wednesday—How does knowing that God will set all things right on the Last Day affect your expectations for what life will be like until then? Do you expect things to get better before then? Why/why not?

Thursday—Read Acts 5:41. Why did the disciples rejoice? Why did they count suffering for Jesus a privilege? Do you?

Friday—What does it mean to pray that “our God may make us worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power”? (v. 11) Is this your prayer?

Jesus came into this world veiled in weakness, but, through that weakness, brought and eternal kingdom of glory.

David (vv. 1-11)
David’s Son (vv. 12-17)
David’s Greater Son (John 1:14; 1 Peter 2:4-8)

Discussion starters

Monday—Why did God record so many stories about births and prophecies about coming children in the Old Testament? How does he want you to read these accounts?

Tuesday—What was wrong with the way David assumed God must want a nicer house and needed David to build it for him?

Wednesday—What is our greatest enemy and our greatest danger? Is it outside of us or inside of us? What kind of king do we need?

Thursday—Are you ever tempted to pity Jesus when you read about how he came into this world? How can pity lead you to think God needs you to rescue him?

Friday—What kind of temple is Jesus building? Where can you go to see it? Which is better—the temple Solomon built or the one Jesus is building? Why?

Creation’s purpose is to reveal its Creator so that you might learn to glorify him and seek your life in him.

Creation and Providence (vv. 2-28)
The Purpose of Creation (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:18-20)
The Seventh Day (vv. 1, 29-35; John 20:22)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What do you love most about creation? How does it affect you? What does it drive you to do? What is it meant to drive you to do?

Tuesday—What is providence? What are you meant to learn about God in through his providence? When was the last time you marveled at his order in creation and preservation of all that he has created?

Wednesday—How does the worship of nature silence creation’s voice? Do you ever find yourself tempted to worship the creation instead of the Creator?

Thursday—How does the original creation week point to the end of time? How does our weekly worship help us remember the beginning and the end and respond in praise?

Friday—What are gifts intended to communicate? What has your heavenly Father sought to communicate to you through his gift of creation?

Our frailty is not a hinderance to God showing us mercy, but the very reason he shows it.

He Knows our Frame (vv. 14-16)
He Remembers that We are Dust (vv. 2-13, 17-19)
Talking to Angels (and Ourselves) (vv. 1, 20-22)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean to forget who we are and that we are dust? Why is it dangerous to forget who God is and that he is merciful?

Tuesday—What are the particular ways you are tempted to “leave your mark” so that you aren’t forgotten? How do you look for your meaning and identity in these things?

Wednesday—What does the Bible mean when it says “God remembers”? (cf. Gen 30:22; Ex 2:24) Why is it a good thing that God remembers you are dust?

Thursday—What’s Jesus’ own relationship with dust? What was he willing to do to rescue us from our sin and its curse?

Friday—Why does David talk to himself in Psalm 103? What are some things you need to remind yourself of regularly?

Jesus makes God visible, unites heaven and earth, and welcomes you to a covenant meal in his presence.

Seeing God
Heaven & Earth
The Covenant Meal

Discussion Starters

Monday—How has God made himself visible throughout history? Why did he often hide himself in smoke and cloud?

Tuesday—Why is it important that Jesus was truly incarnated as a human? How does it make you feel to know that you’ll see him in person one day?

Wednesday—Why was the curtain in the temple torn when Jesus died? What does that mean for your daily life?

Thursday—What does it mean that the Lord’s Supper is a covenant meal? Why do you get to eat of it?

Friday—What is your greatest hope in life and death?

THE COVENANT ON THE MOUNTAIN (EXODUS 23:20-24:8)

God binds himself to his people through the blood-sealed covenant on the mountain that requires perfect obedience.

The People of the Covenant
The Terms of the Covenant
Sealed with Blood

Discussion Starters

Monday—How does God condescend in Covenant? Why does that matter?

Tuesday—Are good works necessary to receive God’s favor? Why or why not?

Wednesday—What has God promised to do for you? How can you be sure he’ll keep his word?

Thursday—Why does Jesus call the cup of the Lord’s Supper the Blood of the Covenant?

Friday—Do you believe that sin and death have been defeated? Does it always feel like they’re defeated? Why or why not?

Your Master gives you rest and calls you to come to his feast with thankful worship.

The Lord is Your Master
Purposeful Rest
Feasting in His Presence
Thankful Worship

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that God is your Master? What areas of your life does that affect?

Tuesday—Why does he give you rest? How should you view rest?

Wednesday—How can you practice feasting on God’s grace on Sunday? What about during the week?

Thursday—What does it say about God if you aren’t a joyful person? What if you aren’t feeling joyful?

Friday—Do you have a thankful heart? How can you show God your thankfulness?

The Lord is the just judge who rescued you, though you were his enemy.

Equity & Justice
The Lord is the Just Judge
Who Rescued You, His Enemy

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why is lying wrong? Why is failing to uphold the truth just as bad as lying?

Tuesday—What kind of bribes are there besides money? Have you ever taken or given these kinds of bribes?

Wednesday—What’s the difference between equity and equality? Does this mean that God is not compassionate?

Thursday—Why does God love and rescue his enemies? How can you be sure he won’t change his mind about you?

Friday—How did he rescue you and what did he rescue you from?

The Holy God has made you holy so that you may dwell with him.

The Holiness of God
He Has Made You Holy
So That You May Dwell With Him

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that God is holy? In what particular ways does he show his holiness?

Tuesday—Did any of these laws seem out of place to you? How does that law show God’s holiness?

Wednesday—Why is God’s holiness a threat to you? In what ways have you made yourself unholy this past week?

Thursday—How does the Lord make you holy? Why did he do it?

Friday—How are you affected by the change in status from ‘sojourner’ to ‘child of God’?

God blesses his people when they joyfully walk in his Word.

The Walk of the Righteous
The Way of the Wicked
The Judgment of God

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the walk of the righteous? How can you know you’re on that path?

Tuesday—Why do the wicked pass away like chaff? What anchors the righteous person?

Wednesday—How are the righteous like a tree planted by streams of water? What fruits does the righteous tree produce?

Thursday—Why does God judge sin?

Friday—How can you stand before him when he comes to judge the Earth?

PEACE THROUGH CHRIST’S BLOOD (EXODUS 21:33-22:15)

Theft and conflict break peace, but Christ's blood makes us whole.

Theft & Conflict
Making Whole
Christ’s Blood

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the fundamental attitude of theft or conflict? Why do you want to ‘win’ or be ‘right’?

Tuesday—How do theft and conflict break relationships? Why is justice insufficient to restore a broken relationship?

Wednesday—What is shalom? What other Scripture passages talk about shalom? Can you have shalom today?

Thursday—What is your deepest need? How does the cross address that need?

Friday—How does Christ’s love shape our relationships with each other?

Titus 3:12-15

How do we learn to devote ourselves to good works?

Learning Self-Control
Learning to Appreciate the Wisdom that Spans Generations
Learning to Embrace the Ordinary
Learning to Rest in God’s Grace

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is self-control? How can you grow to control your emotions, thoughts, and actions?

Tuesday—Why is it hard to accept advice from someone older than you? Why should you?

Wednesday—Does it always feel good or right to do the correct thing? Why or why not?

Thursday—Why should you do good works? Does God care if you obey him or not?

Friday—What does it mean to rest in God’s grace? How can you tell if you aren’t resting in his grace?

A LIFE FOR A LIFE (EXODUS 21:12-32)

God values life so highly that he lovingly gave his life in place of your life.

God Values Life
A Life Instead of a Life
Good Instead of Evil

Discussion Starters

Monday—How do these laws reflect what God values? Are any of these laws unique or surprising?

Tuesday—What is repentance? What do you typically do instead of repent when you sin?

Wednesday—What does it mean, “an eye for an eye”? How does the world apply this principle? How does Jesus apply it?

Thursday—Was it just for Jesus to die on the cross? Why did he do it?

Friday—Do you seek revenge when someone hurts you? Is that right or wrong?

The Lord's goal is the freedom of his people, even though it's costly.

Slavery & Freedom
Sin & Forgiveness
How Many Times Shall I Forgive?

Discussion Starters

Monday—How do these laws reflect God’s character?

Tuesday—Do these laws mean that God approves of slavery? Are there things in our society today that God likewise tolerates, yet they are wrong?

Wednesday—How does the New Testament apply the principles of these laws to us today?

Thursday—Why does sin incur debt against God? Can you repay those debts? What does repentance, then, from sin look like?

Friday—What does it mean to forgive? How can you forgive others when they sin against you?

True fear of God drives you to simple, pure worship, and there he comes to you and blesses you.

Fear & Testing
Simple & Pure
There God Will Bless You

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is true fear of God? How can we fear him wrongly? Do demons fear God? Do you?

Tuesday—What does it mean for God to ‘test’ us? How have you seen him testing you in your life?

Wednesday—Why does Moses go into the darkness? What was significant about that event? What does it mean for you and your relationship to God?

Thursday—How should we worship God? What does this have to do with altars of dirt and fieldstone? Does this comfort you or convict you?

Friday—How does the Lord bless you in worship? Do you truly believe he is present? Is your worship truly transformed by this belief?

God has set you free from sin and death so that you may love your neighbor as yourself

Freed from Sin
Freed from Death
Love Your Neighbor As Yourself

Discussion Starters

Monday—What has Jesus done for you? What sins has he freed you from? How has he freed you from death?

Tuesday—What is self-righteousness? What is self-loathing? How are they the same?

Wednesday—Why is loving your neighbor the ‘fulfillment’ of these commandments? Why should you love them ‘as yourself’?

Thursday—Does God care if you keep his commandments? What happens when you don’t?

Friday—Is God’s law truly a joy to your soul, or do you tend to view his law a burden or checklist? What’s wrong with seeing his law in those ways?

The Lord your God has served you, so serve him with all of your mind, heart, and life.

Your God Has Served You
Serve him with your mind
Serve him with your heart
Serve him with your life
He serves you today

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that the Lord is YOUR God? Do you live, think, and pray believing that he is yours and you are his?

Tuesday—Why did the God who rules heaven and earth serve you, a slave? How does he serve you today?

Wednesday—What does it mean to serve God with your mind?

Thursday—What does it mean to serve God with your heart?

Friday—What does it mean to serve him with your ‘might’ or life?

The Lord is the King of the Earth who creates and unmakes with his voice, so surrender to him.

The Voice of God
Surrender to His Voice
Surrender to His Word

Discussion Starters

Monday—How does the Lord rule over the Earth today? What manifestations of his kingdom do you see around you?

Tuesday—Why does the Lord create and unmake by his voice and words? Do your words have a similar, just much less potent, power?

Wednesday—Are there any areas of your life that you have not surrendered to the Lord your King? Why not?

Thursday—Why should you trust the Lord if he could break out at any moment and unmake you?

Friday—Why should you fear the Lord and not take his Word lightly? How can you revere his Word better?

While we await the return of Jesus, our lives are to be characterized by sacrificial love toward God and others.

You don’t need to worry about when the Lord is coming so long as you are ready for him to return.

Because our bodies are holy, death cannot have the final word—they must be raised up to join Christ on the Last Day.

Because the Holy Spirit dwells in you and other Christians you are to walk in purity and protect the purity of others.

You are the Lord's holy and treasured people because your covenant mediator ascended the mountain of God's judgment.

Without God-ordained, Godly leadership, you will wither, but with it you will have peace.

Absence is an unavoidable (but not permanent) aspect of life in the church that Jesus overcomes by his Holy Spirit and fellow Christians.

Being mistreated is a necessary trait for all who belong to God’s family (and a proof that we are his).

The Lord has plundered you from your enemies, so rejoice in him, bless him, confess him, and worship him.

When tired and exhausted, Christians need to go back to the basics—faith, hope, and love—to find strength to press forward.

The Lord gives us victory against all our enemies through the surrender of the mediator.

PRECIOUS STONES (PSALM 102 | JOHN 2:13-22)

Through affliction, God teaches you to cling to the things that really matter— things that are eternal.

The Complaint (vv. 1-11)
The Kindness of God (vv. 12-21)
To the End of Creation (vv. 22-28)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Read Joshua 4:1-7. Do you have any mementos from important times in your life? What are they? Do they represent good times or hard (or both)? Why do you hold onto them?

Tuesday—How do we tend to interpret times of affliction? What do we think they tell us about God? Why? Can you relate to the complaint in verses 1-11?

Wednesday—What is the real reason God allows hard times to come into the lives of his children? How is it an act of pity, kindness, and love?

Thursday—What are some trials in your life that have become precious stones? What lessons did you learn?

Friday—Why does Jesus connect his death with he destruction of the temple? (John 2:13-22) Why is something as horrible as his death precious to us?

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (PSALM 101)

Those who wish to grow in godliness must spend time with God and surround themselves with those who love the Lord.

Cleaning House
The Company Jesus Kept

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that bad company ruins good morals? (1 Corinthians 15:33) What was the context? Are the only corrupting influences that we need to watch for outside the church?

Tuesday—As King David takes the throne, why does he feel the need to “clean house”? What is his fear of allowing immoral counselors to advise him? What is his responsibility as a king?

Wednesday—What is arrogance? Why is it so dangerous? Does gross immorality always accompany arrogance or can it hide itself in pious living as well?

Thursday—Does the Bible tell us to never speak with or spend time with sinners? Read 1 Corinthians 5:6-11. How does this help you think about the company you should keep?

Friday—Is it enough for your friends to be Christians or is something more needed? If you and your friends don’t talk about the things of the Lord and encourage greater humility and godliness, is that healthy? What kind of spouse does God want people to look for?

GOD ON TRIAL

EXODUS 17:1-7

The Lord silently endured trial and judgment because he wanted to give you living water.

God on Trial (7:1-4)
God Judged (7:5-7)
Living Waters

Discussion Starters

Monday—What was Israel’s accusation against Moses & God? Did they have a right to challenge God’s covenantal faithfulness? Do you?

Tuesday—Why did God want the elders of Israel to come with Moses, and why were they to go to the Mountain of Horeb?

Wednesday—Why did God not respond to Israel’s accusations? Was it because their accusations were false and he felt no need to address them? How does God respond to your accusations?

Thursday—Why was Jesus silent in the trial before the high priests? What trial was actually happening?

Friday—What is ‘living water’ and why do you need it? How can you get it?

THE BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE

MALACHI 3:13 - 4:6

When you don’t see immediate benefits of trusting the Lord, he wants you to know that he will remember you on the Last Day.

“God is Against Us” (3:13-15)
The Book of Remembrance (3:16 - 4:3)
Preparing for His Return (4:4-6)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why do the Israelites think they’ve wasted time obeying God and making shows of repentance? (3:13-15) What did they see as the purpose of obedience and repentance?

Tuesday—Can you relate to the concerns of the Israelites? Are you ever tempted to wonder what the point of following God is if doesn’t make life any better?

Wednesday—What’s the danger in thinking that God owes us a reward (profit) for our obedience to him? (3:14)

Thursday—What is a book of remembrance? (3:16; Esther 6) Why does Jesus caution his disciples about getting too excited that the demons obeyed them? (Luke 10:20; Matthew 7:22)

Friday—What are the two things you can do to prepare for the Lord’s return? (4:4-6) Why do these thing matter? How do they prepare you for his return?

OUR TREASURED POSSESSION

MALACHI 3:6-12

God commands us to give sacrificially so that we might learn to depend on him and not ourselves and when we refuse, we rob him of the opportunity to show us his faithfulness.

God’s Treasured Possession (vv. 6-7, 10-11; cf. Deuteronomy 7:6; 15:15)
Robbing God (vv. 7-11)
Our Treasured Possession (vv. 7, 9-12; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Discussion Starters

Monday—How comfortable do you feel talking about giving? Is this something we should be hesitant to talk about? Why or why not?

Tuesday—Why is God allowed to command us to give? Are you able to give anything to God that does not already belong to him? So why does he tell you to give?

Wednesday—What keeps us from giving more generously/sacrificially? How is sacrificial giving an act of trust and faith?

Thursday—Why doesn’t the New Testament repeat the command to give a tithe? What is that an invitation to do? (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Friday—What does it mean that God is your treasured possession? How does that show itself in how you see (and practice) giving?

INTO THE FIRE

MALACHI 2:17 - 3:6 | DANIEL 3

Because God loves you, he will allow you to endure the refiner’s fire so that, when he comes, he will see himself in you.

Into the Fire
Our Biggest Problem (2:17-3:2, 5; Deut 4:24; Isaiah 33:14)
The Refiner and the Fire (3:1-6)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is the biggest problem facing the church? What is the church’s greatest need? How are you tempted to answer that question? How would God answer it?

Tuesday—What the problem of Israel wanting God’s justice to come? What message did John the Baptist bring when he preceded Jesus? How does that help us understand our greatest need?

Wednesday—What is the “refiner’s fire”? What did it do? How did the refiner know he was done? How do afflictions in this life serve like a refiner’s fire for you?

Thursday—What does it mean that Jesus goes into the fire with us? Where did he most clearly suffer the fiery wrath of God? How does that protect you from the fiery wrath?

Friday—Do you think of the fact that God does not change as a source of comfort in the midst of affliction? How can that fact be a comfort to you?

THIRSTING

(PSALMS 42-43 & JOHN 1:9–14; 19:28-30)

In exile, God’s people can call out to the God who comes to their rescue and comforts them as they await re-entering his house and worshipping before his face.

Thirsting for God (Psalm 42:1-4)
Behind Enemy Lines (Psalm 42:6-11)
The Rescue Mission (Psalm 43:1-5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever been really, really thirsty? What was it like? Were you able to think of anything else?

Tuesday—Have you ever felt like God was a million miles away? What is that like? What are you tempted to believe at times like that?

Wednesday—What is exile? In what way is our current situation in this life similar to Israel in Egypt, Assyria or Babylon?

Thursday—What do truth and light represent? What is the psalmist asking for in Psalm 43:3? How did God ultimately come to rescue us?

Friday—Why is it important that this psalm is for the choirmaster? What does that tell us about how it is to be used?

THE LIFE-GIVER

1 KINGS 17 | 1 CORINTHIANS 15:3-5, 12-19, 45

In the resurrection, Jesus became the life-giver, able to give us eternal life as the reward for his perfect life and his willingness to suffer in our place.

Resurrection on the Third Day (vv. 8-24)
Elijah in the Wilderness (vv. 1-7)
The Life-Giver (1 Corinthians 15)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why does 1 Corinthians 15 say that the resurrection is of first importance? What does it mean that the Old Testament scriptures foresaw the resurrection on the third day?

Tuesday—Why do you think that the mother’s first impulse in 1 Kings 17:18 is to think it’s her sin that caused the death of her son? Did Elijah come to shame her or bless her? When hard times come, is your first thought often that God is punishing you?

Wednesday—Whose resurrection are you supposed to see in the raising of the son—your’s or Jesus’? Why is this important? How is it meant to encourage you?

Thursday—What did Elijah need to suffer in order to raise the young man back to life? What is this mean to teach you about Jesus?

Friday—How does God want you to be encouraged by the resurrection of Jesus? What does it guarantee you?

FAITHFULNESS

MALACHI 2:10-16

If you love God you will marry a Christian and remain faithful to your marriage vows.

God Cares Deeply About Marriage (vv. 14-15)
God Requires Faithfulness in Marriage (vv. 10-11, 15-16)
God Always Sides with the Victim (vv. 12-16)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is love? How would you define it? What characterizes it? Where would you go in the Bible to explain love?

Tuesday—Why does God care so much about marriage? How does the way you treat marriage show what you think about God? Why?

Wednesday—Why does God say that Christians only marry Christians? Is this a recommendation or a command? Is it enough to simply make sure that a person says they’re a Christian or does God want more? Why?

Thursday—What’s the difference between a lawful and an unlawful divorce? Why does God allow divorce in some cases? What happens when a church fails to protect victims?

Friday—If you (or someone you love) has had an unbiblical divorce, does that mean there is no hope? What do you think God requires of the one who has done this?

NOT BY BREAD

EXODUS 16:13-36

You do not live by bread alone, but by the Word of the Lord.

Daily Gathering (vv. 13-21)
Ceasing on the Sabbath (vv. 22-30)
Throughout your Generations (vv. 31-36)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Think about your own life, in what ways do you try to gather and store up for yourself? Why do you do that?

Tuesday—Is anxiety sinful? Why or why not? What other passages talk about anxiety?

Wednesday—Do you truly ‘cease’ your labors on the Sabbath? What do you do with your time instead? What should you do with your time on the Sabbath?

Thursday—Why does God command Israel to keep a jar of manna throughout their generations? What has God given you instead of a jar of manna?

Friday—How does the Supper teach you that you do not live by bread alone? How does that shape your daily life as well as how you treat the Sabbath?

KNOWING GOD

MALACHI 2:1-9

When preachers truly know God, they preach Christ and him crucified.

The Sins of the Priests (vv. 1-4, 7-9)
The Embodied Word (vv. 5-7)
Shaped by the Cross (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever considered how many times the Bible talks about the need for worship to be acceptable? (Rom 12:1–2; Phil 4:18; Heb 11:4; 12:28; 1 Pet. 2:5) What makes it acceptable?

Tuesday—What were the priests in the tabernacle called to guard? (Num 1:53; 3:7-8, 38) Why was this necessary? Whom were they serving in this?

Wednesday—Does Jesus care about purity in worship? How did Jesus do what the priests in Malachi’s day refused to do? (John 2:13-17; Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19)

Thursday—What kinds of sacrifices are you called to offer God? (Heb 13:15; Phil 2:17; 4:18; Rom 12:2) Is God satisfied with anything less than the best you have to offer? Why?

Friday—Who are the doorkeepers in the church today? (Matthew 16:19; 18:17-18; 1 Corinthians 11:17-19) What is their responsibility? Whom are they serving in this?

DOORKEEPERS

MALACHI 1:6-14

God is jealous for the purity of his worship and expects leaders in his church guard it.

The Priests’ Failure to Guard the Doors (vv. 6-14)
The Better Priest (v. 10; John 2:13-17; Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19)
The Keepers of the Keys (v. 11; Matthew 16:19; 18:17-18; 1 Corinthians 11:17-20)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever considered how many times the Bible talks about the need for worship to be acceptable? (Rom 12:1–2; Phil 4:18; Heb 11:4; 12:28; 1 Pet. 2:5) What makes it acceptable?

Tuesday—What were the priests in the tabernacle called to guard? (Num 1:53; 3:7-8, 38) Why was this necessary? Whom were they serving in this?

Wednesday—Does Jesus care about purity in worship? How did Jesus do what the priests in Malachi’s day refused to do? (John 2:13-17; Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19)

Thursday—What kinds of sacrifices are you called to offer God? (Heb 13:15; Phil 2:17; 4:18; Rom 12:2) Is God satisfied with anything less than the best you have to offer? Why?

Friday—Who are the doorkeepers in the church today? (Matthew 16:19; 18:17-18; 1 Corinthians 11:17-19) What is their responsibility? Whom are they serving in this?

HOW HAVE YOU LOVED US?

(MALACHI 1:1-5)

God’s love is demonstrated not in keeping you from trials, but in doing whatever is necessary to save you.

God Shows His Love by Conquering Our Enemies (vv. 2-5)
God Shows His Love by Humbling Us (vv. 2-3)
God Shows His Love by Bearing Our Burden (v. 1; John 3:16)

Discussion Starters

Monday—“Oracle” (v. 1) is best translated “burden.” What is a burden? Why is the Lord burdened?

Tuesday—Why is Israel questioning whether or not God loves them? (v. 2) What are unmet expectations? How have you dealt with unmet expectations in your life?

Wednesday—How is God’s judgment on the Edomites proof of his love for Israel? (vv. 3-4; Genesis 12:3) Which of your enemies has God conquered to show his love for you?

Thursday—In Genesis 32, God wrestles with Jacob and leaves him crippled? Is this an act of love or hatred? Why? What are some ways that God has crippled you out of love?

Friday—What is the greatest proof of God’s love? (John 3:16) Is there anything greater God could do to prove his love? So why don’t we always see it his love?

PALACE ETIQUETTE

(PSALM 100 | JOHN 10:1-18)

The more we know the God who is our king, the more we will delight in him and in serving him.

The Shepherd King (vv. 3, 5; John 10:1-18)
The Sheep of His Pasture (v. 3)
Palace Etiquette (vv. 1-5)
- Come | Enter (vv. 2, 4; Hebrews 10:24-25)
- Rejoice | Sing | Give Thanks (vv. 1, 2, 4)
- Know the Lord (v. 3)
- Bless His Name (v. 4)
- Serve with Gladness (v. 2)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why does God invoke the image of a shepherd to describe what it means to be king? Read John 10:11-18. What is a good shepherd in God’s eyes? How does this inform how we must see leadership?

Tuesday—Read Psalm 100:3 in light of Revelation 1:5-6. What does it mean that he made us? How does belonging to his kingdom change your identity? How does it affect your life?

Wednesday—What does it mean that Jesus knows you by name? Is that a scary thought or a comforting one? Why?

Thursday—What does is it mean to know the Lord? (v. 3) What does it mean to bless his name? (v. 4) Do you know the Lord well enough?

Friday—What does serving God look like? (v. 2) Is serving easy or costly? What model has Jesus give you for how to serve others?

THE BREAD OF HEAVEN

(EXODUS 16:1-12)

The Lord is the bread of heaven. Those who know him will never go hungry.

Knowing God
- The True Threat (vv. 1-4)
- Knowing Him Through Bread (vv. 5-8)
- The Glory of the Lord (vv. 9-12)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why did Israel grumble again even though they just witnessed a miracle in chapter 15? What is grumbling really about? Have you grumbled against the Lord lately?

Tuesday—What does it mean to know the Lord? When did you first begin to know him?

Wednesday—Why is it significant that he reveals himself through bread? Does he still do that?

Thursday—What happens when the Glory of the Lord shows up? How does he satisfy those who know the Lord?

Friday—How has your life changed since knowing Jesus? Will you ever lack anything?

WHERE HEAVEN AND EARTH TOUCH

(PSALM 99 | JOHN 20:11-12)

God’s kingdom is one of justice and mercy, and it is experienced in Jesus Christ.

What is the Mercy Seat? (v. 1; Isaiah 6:1-4)
What is Holiness? (vv. 2-9)
Why is it Called the Mercy Seat? (vv. 6-8)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is holiness? Why is holiness beautiful and terrifying? What does experiencing God’s holiness lead people to do? (Isaiah 6:5; Luke 5:8; Job 42:3-6) Have you ever felt undone by God’s holiness?

Tuesday—Why was the Mercy Seat at the center of worship in Israel? How should that inform our understanding of worship?

Wednesday—Read John 20:11-12. How does this relate to the Mercy Seat? Which is the original and which is the copy?

Thursday—Where do you experience God’s presence like Israel did in the Holy of Holies? Do you really believe that? How should it transform the way you enter into and participate in the worship service?

Friday—How should encountering the king of heaven change you? What does living in this world as a citizen of heaven look like?

Discussion Starters

Monday—Andrew Fletcher wrote, “Let me make the songs of a nation, and I care not who makes its laws.” What did he mean? Do you agree or disagree?

Tuesday—Why is music so powerful? What draws us to different sorts of music? What kind of music do you tend to resonate with?

Wednesday—How has God shown his salvation throughout history? How should how he has acted in the past help you in thinking about the future?

Thursday—What causes the sea, the rivers, and the hills to sing for joy? (vv. 7-8) What can you learn from them?

Friday—If you want to be filled with joy and sing for joy, what do you need to think about? What are some things you can do to help you think on those things?

WHAT WE KNOW (PSALM 97)

The absolute assurance of God’s victory enables us to rejoice at all times.

The Lord Reigns (vv. 1-6)
The Lord is Exalted Far Above all Gods (vv. 7-9)
Rejoice and Hate Evil (vv. 10-12)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that “the Lord reigns”? (v. 1) Does it mean that he is one king among many or something more?

Tuesday—Read Joshua 5:13-15. Who is the Commander of the Lord’s Army? What does he mean by “no” when asked whose side he is on? What’s the right question?

Wednesday—Are we immune to worshipping false gods? What are some of the false gods of our age? Which are particularly tempting to you?

Thursday—What is it that enable Christians to rejoice even when they are suffering greatly? What do you need in order to rejoice when times are hard in your life?

Friday—What does it meant to hate evil? (v. 10) Are there evils that you have played with and kept close that you need to confess and surrender to God?

THE LORD IS YOUR HEALER (EXODUS 15:22-27)

The Lord tests you so that you would depend upon him as your healer.

Israel Tests God (vv. 22-24)
God Tests Israel (vv. 25-27)
Dependance Upon The Lord Your Healer

Discussion Starters

Monday—How has the Lord tested your faith recently? How did you respond?

Tuesday—Why is it so hard to admit dependance upon the Lord?

Wednesday—Do you find yourself praying for independence upon the Lord? How do prayers of dependance sound different?

Thursday—What do you grumble about most often? Do you think the Lord might be testing you in that area?

Friday—What does it mean that God is your healer? How does that affect how you respond to tests of faith?

THE SONG OF THE REDEEMED (PSALM 96)

Having invited all people to come to him for redemption, God calls those who come to sing a song about his salvation (and tell others to come as well).

A Song of Victory for the King (vv. 1-6, 10-13)
An Invitation for the Nations (vv. 7-9; cf. Genesis 9:26-27; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4)
A Song for Us to Sing to the Lamb (Revelation 5:6-14; cf. 14:1-5; Matthew 28:18-20)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why do you think the issues of identity, community, and meaning are so important to us? Where is the only place they can be truly answered?

Tuesday—Why is it important to remember that God reigns above all gods and that he will judge the world in equity? Why does this need to proclaimed?

Wednesday—What is a new song? What does it mean to sing a new song? Do you ever do it?

Thursday—Why shouldn’t it be a surprise that, as Israel was setting up the tabernacle, God was calling the Gentiles to come? (Look at Genesis 9:26-27; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4) How does that help us understand God’s heart for evangelism?

Friday—Read Revelation 5:9-10. Why is Jesus worthy of our praise? How is singing about what Jesus has done an act of evangelism?

WHY WE WORSHIP (PSALM 95)

We worship because that is what we were created to do and where we alone can find true joy and peace.

Out of Eden (vv. 3-5)
Back to Eden (vv. 1-2, 6-7; Deuteronomy 32:13; Psalm 81:16)
The Better Eden (7-11; Hebrews 3-4; John 10)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What’s wrong with saying we worship God because he loves us and not because he made us? Why should we worship God?

Tuesday—What are some things you are tempted to think God would give you if he loves you? What would happen if God answered those desires? Would you be satisfied? Why or why not?

Wednesday—If you were at Meribah with Israel and had witnessed the crossing of the Red Sea, would you have questioned God’s love?

Thursday—Would someone who doesn’t love God enjoy heaven? Why or why not?

Friday—Where do you see the love of God most clearly? If you want to stand strong against the devil’s attacks, what can you do?

THE SONG OF THE SEA (EXODUS 15:1-21)

The salvation of the Lord inspires confession in his people and brings them safely to his house.

The Salvation of the Lord
Inspires Our Confession
Brings Us Safely to His House

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that God is your strength and your song?

Tuesday—Do we have any confidence that the Lord’s wrath and power won’t be turned upon us?

Wednesday—Why should we confess our faith? What does confession guard against?

Thursday—What is significant about going to God’s house? Are you there yet? How do you know you’ll get there safely?

Friday—Why does God love you? Can you be separated from that love?

Mary is the long awaited woman of the seed, who must let go of her son if he is to conquer the serpent and save his people.

The World Samuel Was Born Into (1 Samuel 1:1-28)
Hannah’s Prayer (1 Samuel 2:1-10)
Same Prayer, Different Woman (Luke 1:46-55)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is so significant about Genesis 3:15? What is God promising? Who is the promised Seed?

Tuesday—What was going on in the world that Samuel was born into? (1 Samuel 2:12-36) How does that reality help us understand Hannah’s prayer?

Wednesday—What would have happened if Hannah didn’t let go of Samuel? Do you think you could let go of your child to help others?

Thursday—Do you think Mary was aware that she was praying an almost identical prayer to what Hannah prayed? What does that tell us about her understanding of her calling as a mother?

Friday—In what ways do Hannah and Mary serve as models for us? What does it mean to live sacrificially? Where should we seek comfort?

Exodus 14

HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS IS OUR STRENGTH (PSALM 93)

Your hope on the Last Day is not that you are strong enough or righteous enough, but that you belong to the one who is.

The Lord Became King (vv. 1-4)
The Lord’s Righteousness is His Strength (vv. 3-4; Isaiah 11:1-16)
Be Holy Because He is Holy (v. 5)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What kinds of fears do you wrestle with? Where do you tend to see comfort when you’re afraid?

Tuesday—What is the image behind waters or rivers that seek to overcome the Lord in verses 3 and 4? What does it mean that the Lord’s righteousness is his strength?

Wednesday—How were the flood (Genesis 6-8), the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), and the crossing of the Jordan (Joshua 4) examples of God being vindicated over his enemies? Who benefited from those victories? How are these pictures of the Last Day?

Thursday—How does confidence about the Last Day help to comfort you today? (Romans 8:31; Hebrews 13:6) What are some fears that you need to surrender to God?

Friday—Read Leviticus 11:44. What does it mean that holiness is fitting for God’s house? What sins in your life are the result of fear?

COMPASSION (PSALM 94)

Left unchecked, pride will blind you to what God is doing in and around you.

Blinded by Pride (vv. 1-7)
Seeing God’s Faithfulness (vv. 16-23)
Wisdom is Better than Prosperity (vv. 12-15; 2 Peter 3:9; Romans 2:4; Luke 22:42)
Wisdom Leads to Compassion (vv. 8-11; Luke 23:34)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Would you rather eat snails or uncooked chicken? Would you rather be humble or proud? Why? Would you rather be wise or prosperous? Why?

Tuesday—Read verses 1-7. Have you ever made your prayers sound like you were seeking God’s glory, when you were really seeking your own? Why do we do that? What drives prayers like these? Is God fooled?

Wednesday—Read verses 16-23. What are some ways that you have seen God’s faithfulness and provision in your life? How can reflecting on those help you when times are hard and you see the wicked prospering?

Thursday—Read 2 Peter 3:9 and Romans 2:4. How does wisdom teach us to see God’s patience? Why do we tend to be comfortable with God’s patience when we are the recipients, but not when others are?

Friday—Read verses 12-15. How is wisdom better than comfort or prosperity? What does wisdom give you that prosperity never can? Bonus—Read verses 9-11. What is an area where God is calling to compassion, not vengeance? What might that look like for you?

If we are to weather life’s storms, we must possess depth, which is cultivated in worship.

Every Christian should be prepared to defend their hope of heaven, which is pictured and promised in baptism.

Jesus is the God of Israel, the Judge of all mankind, and the Savior of all who believe on him.

The presence of the Lord leads and guarantees the promised land to those who trust him.

Bearing your cross means accepting that the cost of following Jesus means sharing in his suffering in this world (and his glory in the next).

Bearing your cross means accepting that the cost of following Jesus means sharing in his suffering in this world (and his glory in the next).

The Sabbath is a time to know and rest in Jesus and to love and serve others.

The Sabbath is a time to know and rest in Jesus and to love and serve others.

The consecration of the firstborn reveals the true cost God paid for our salvation.

The consecration of the firstborn reveals the true cost God paid for our salvation.

Every week the Lord meets with us by his Holy Spirit and ministers to us through preaching and the Lord’s Supper.

Every week the Lord meets with us by his Holy Spirit and ministers to us through preaching and the Lord’s Supper.

God prepares us for hard times through his word which always tells us what we need (even if it’s not what we want).

God prepares us for hard times through his word which always tells us what we need (even if it’s not what we want).

Your race, gender, or social status can’t save you—all that matters is how you respond to the death of Jesus.

Your race, gender, or social status can’t save you—all that matters is how you respond to the death of Jesus.

Though we were once aliens, Jesus has reconciled us to God in order to present us blameless, provided we continue in the faith.

Though we were once aliens, Jesus has reconciled us to God in order to present us blameless, provided we continue in the faith.

To be a child of God means acknowledging that that, though he is the righteous God, Jesus suffered in your place on the cross.

To be a child of God means acknowledging that that, though he is the righteous God, Jesus suffered in your place on the cross.

Jesus is willing to be abandoned by all that he might not abandon us in our hour of greatest need.

Jesus is willing to be abandoned by all that he might not abandon us in our hour of greatest need.

The Lord is willing to do anything for his people, so his people should be willing to do anything for him because it leads to their good.

Every Christian is called to lead in some way and the call to lead is a call to lay down your life for those you lead.

Passover is the worshipful memorial of God’s covering presence in Egypt.

The Lord’s signs blind those in rebellion against him, but they free his people to serve and know him.

The Lord must judge sin, but he freely offers mercy to those who fear his name.

The last days are known for chaos and persecution, so Jesus calls you to wisdom, which means patiently waiting for his return.

If you truly believe in the resurrection it will be reflected by holding the riches of this world loosely.

ONE BRIDE FOR SEVEN BROTHERS

(LUKE 20:27-44)

WHOSE WIFE? (VV. 27-33; DEUTERONOMY 25:5-10)
SIMPLE ANSWERS (VV. 34-37; PSALM 8; EXODUS 3:6)
IT WAS OVER BEFORE IT BEGAN (V. 28)
DAVID’S LORD (VV. 39-40; PSALM 110)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why do you think people don’t want to believe in eternity, heaven, and hell? Are you ever tempted to think that this world is all there is?

Tuesday— In what ways do you think of heaven as just a continuation of life on earth? What is the danger in thinking this way?

Wednesday—What does it mean that you are made a lower than angels for a little while? What does it mean for this life? What about the next?

Thursday—What does it mean that Jesus is ruling in the midst of his enemies? Does suffering in this life mean that Jesus is not on his throne? What does it mean?

Friday—It’s easy to just think about the resurrection as an historical fact. What does it mean for Jesus’ enemies? What does it mean for those who belong to him?

No one is like the Lord in his power, patience, and love.

God demands your life, your mind, and your heart.

Because you are made in God’s image, your allegiance rightly belongs to him and no other.

Because the leaders of Israel did not honor Jesus, they were stripped of their authority and it was given to the apostles.

Jesus possesses absolute authority and requires absolute loyalty.

God is not indifferent to your suffering, but allows it (through tears) for your good.

Congregational charge delivered by Pastor Brett McNeill on the occasion of the ordination of Pastor Isaac Baugh, May 13, 2022, Olympia, Washington.

Pastoral charge delivered by Pastor Steve Baugh on the occasion of the ordination of Pastor Isaac Baugh, May 13, 2022, Olympia, Washington.

Prayer of ordination delivered by Pastor Charles Williams on the occasion of the ordination of Pastor Isaac Baugh, May 13, 2022, Olympia, Washington.

Ordination vows given by Pastor Brett McNeill on the occasion of the ordination of Pastor Isaac Baugh, May 13, 2022, Olympia, Washington.

Sermon delivered by Pastor Mark Collingridge on the occasion of the ordination of Pastor Isaac Baugh, May 13, 2022, Olympia, Washington.

The Lord reveals that his is a better kingdom than Pharaoh’s because he is a better king.

Jesus came to make peace between heaven and earth and is worthy of your praise and worship.

The Lord offers a sacrifice for our salvation and we are transformed into those who offer ourselves in worship and life back to Him.

The resurrection shows us that Jesus did everything necessary to free his people from slavery and give them eternal rest in his kingdom.

The Lord demonstrates his saving power by showing the weakness of his servants.

Following Jesus doesn’t mean safety, but taking risks for his sake.

Jesus knows your shame and feelings of unworthiness and seeks you out any way.

God shows himself to be faithful and gracious by saving an unfaithful people.

Recognizing Jesus is a matter of faith, not sight.

Jesus sacrificed all for you and calls you to sacrifice all for him.

It’s when you admit that you have no claim on God that he gladly makes his claim on you.

God calls us to trust his strength and not our own.

Confidence in God’s goodness shows itself in patient and persistent prayer.

Preparing for the end of the world means neither trying to escape nor ignoring its coming, but living every day in light of it certainty.

God calls you to respond to the world’s hostility by remembering you who are and imitating Jesus in living lives of sacrifice and love.

The Kingdom of God belongs to all who trust in Jesus and is visible only to the eyes of faith.

Your only hope in your battle against sin is to humbly acknowledge that you can’t do it and to completely surrender to Jesus, who alone is able to deliver you.

Exodus 4:18-31

The jealousy of the Lord demands blood, but through sacrifice comes redemption.

God’s Jealousy Demands Blood (vv. 18-26)
1. The Firstborn of God
2. The Firstborn of Moses
3. Through Sacrifice Comes Redemption (vv. 21-26)
4. Sacrifice of Pharaoh’s Firstborn
5. Sacrifice of Moses’ Firstborn
6. Sacrifice of God’s Firstborn

Discussion Starters

Monday—Do you think of the Lord’s jealousy as something for your advantage or as something to be afraid of?

Tuesday—Who’s the hero of this story? Who’s the villain? Who do you identify with?

Wednesday—Why was it necessary for blood to be spilled to redeem Moses?

Thursday—What does it look like to walk the path Jesus walked for you? How can you die to yourself?

Friday—Is the Lord’s sacrifice on your behalf a comfort or a challenge? Why or why not?

Monday: How are we shaped by God’s priorities? What are those priorities? (v. 9)

Tuesday: What are the hurdles or distractions that keep you from a habit of prayer? Why is gratitude the key to growth? (v. 10; 12)

Wednesday: How does prayer reveal our maturity? What areas suffer lack of growth because of hesitation to pray?

Thursday: In which direction for you does prayer feel like labor; a chore or a labor of love? How can we grow in mirroring Paul’s and Christ’s love for the Church?

Friday: Consider the connection of prayer and liberty from the domain of darkness. Do you pray to grow through affliction or to escape affliction? How should our redemption and forgiveness of sins affect our prayers?

Saturday (Bonus): Think back. What “beloved fellow servant” do you thank God for teaching you about his grace? In whose life might you be that beloved fellow servant?

The great barrier to faith is not a lack of knowledge, but the pride that guards our hearts admitting our need for grace.

Sermon Notes

God comforts and confronts our prideful doubts to drive us to trust his resources

Exodus 4:1-17

I. God Comforts (vv. 1-9)

II. God Confronts (vv. 10-17)

III. To Trust His Resources (vv. 1-17)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why does Moses object to the calling of God? What do his excuses have in common?

Tuesday—How does God comfort his people when they doubt? How does he confront their pride?

Wednesday—How did Jesus model right priorities? What drove him to forgo earthly riches and comfort?

Thursday—What does God mean that how you handle the small things will be how you handle the big things? Why does he talk about loyalty when he addresses money?

Friday—Do you struggle with priorities? Where do you spend too much time? Where do you need to spend less time?

Exodus 3

God reveals himself for the salvation of his people.

A Personal God (vv. 1-8)
Revelation through a Mediator (vv. 9-13)
For His People’s Salvation
The Name of God

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that the Lord has revealed himself personally?

Tuesday—Why was Moses unwilling to go back to Egypt? What insecurities does he demonstrate?

Wednesday—How does the Lord’s form of appearance speak to his character? Does he always appear like that?

Thursday—Do you think of God in personal terms, or do you view him as impersonal? Why or why not?

Friday—How does this passage affect how you view the third commandment? What does it mean to take his name in vain?

The unfailing love of your heavenly Father is what gives you confidence that pain will not have the final word for you.

The Certainty of Suffering (vv. 1-15)
1. Like Death and Taxes (vv. 4-5, 19-21)
2. Friendship with God (vv. 6-12)
3. A Prayer for Rescue (vv. 1-3, 13-15)
4. A Prayer for Justice (vv. 4-8, 22-29)
5. The Certainty of Glory (vv. 13–36)
6. The Confidence of Restoration (vv. 14-15, 34-36)
7. Based in Love (and Justice) (vv. 13, 16-18, 22-29)
8. Based in the Work of Jesus (vv. 4, 19-21)
9. The Pain of Waiting (vv. 3, 9-12, 30-33)
10. Where We Struggle (vv. 3, 13)
11. Zeal for Our Father’s House (vv. 9-12, 30-33)
12. A Table in the Presence of Enemies (vv. 22-29)

Discussion Starters:

Monday—Have you ever had a hard time where time seemed to just slow down and drag on? How did you feel during that time?

Tuesday—Why is it impossible to be friends with God and the world? Why does the world treat God’s people with contempt?

Wednesday—Is God’s justice a good thing or a bad thing? How can it be scary? How can it be a comfort?

Thursday—Why is God’s love meant to be a comfort for his people? How does his love shape your understanding of the future?

Friday—Why is waiting so hard? What can help you while you wait to find comfort and hope as you face the pains of this life?

Devotion to God is an all or nothing matter.

Because God loves us, he disciplines us.

Why Discipline? (vv. 1-4)
1. The Danger of an Undisciplined Life
2. The Many Forms of Discipline (vv. 1-4)
3. The Heart (vv. 5-17)
4. The Motive of Discipline (vv. 5-11)
5. Responding to Discipline (vv. 12-17; 1 Timothy 5:20; 1 Corinthians 11:31)
6. Look to Jesus (v. 2)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Have you ever prayed for patience? What happened? What should you expect if you pray for righteousness?

Tuesday—What is the danger of raising a child without discipline? Where does a lack of discipline lead? Are you grateful or resentful for your parents’ discipline?

Wednesday—What are some different forms that discipline takes? How do you tend to respond to adversity? To a friend’s correction? What do you think when you see the church exercising discipline?

Thursday—Why does God discipline his children? What would it mean for us if God stopped disciplining us? Would that be an act of love?

Friday—How do you respond to correction? Does your response encourage or discourage others from speaking into your life? Where is the Lord calling you to grow in this regard?

We are all prodigals and God's grace is every bit sufficient for each of us.

God is faithful to his promises even when he makes it look like they won’t be fulfilled.

The Faithfulness of God
1. Faithfulness in the Past (vv. 1-7)
2. God Uses Normal Means (vv. 1-14)
3. God Uses Surprising Means (vv. 15-20)
4. Promises Under Attack (vv. 8-22)
5. Ruthless Oppression (vv. 8-14)
6. Secret Genocide (vv. 15-17)
7. Public Genocide (v. 22)
8. God Arranges Life so that We Have to Trust Him

Discussion Starters

Monday—How do you know God is faithful? What past promises has he fulfilled?

Tuesday—Why do we have confidence he will continue to be faithful? What promises are we still waiting for him to fulfill?

Wednesday—Have you ever doubted that God would be faithful to you? What normal or surprising means is he using in your life to show you his enduring faithfulness?

Thursday—Does God still sometimes arrange circumstances to make it look like his promises are failing? How do we typically respond? How should we respond?

Friday—How can you encourage others to trust in God’s promises? What role do you have to play in God’s fulfilling of his promises?

God and his angels delight anytime you turn from sin to him.

Jesus surrendered all for you and calls you to surrender all for him.

God shares heaven with those who don’t deserve it (and admit they don’t).

The Sabbath reveals God's heart to heal and care for others, even if it costs him his life.

Those who will in heaven are those who cling to Jesus above all else.

God’s kingdom is not visible as a kingdom, but in the fruit it bears in people’s lives as they love and serve others.

Forgiveness is available to all who surrender to Jesus before it's too late.

Those who live as if Jesus might return at any moment are blessed.

The only way to be free of anxiety is to treasure what is eternal over what is temporary.

Earthly Treasure (vv. 13-21)
1. My Fair Share (vv. 13-15)
2. The Rich Fool (vv. 16-21)
3. What Jesus is Not Saying
4. Heavenly Treasure (vv. 22-34)
5. Worry Doesn’t Help (vv. 22-23, 25-26)
6. Ravens and Lilies (vv. 24, 27-28)
7. Priorities Matter (vv. 29-31)
8. Living in Freedom (vv. 32-34)
9. A Portrait of Sacrifice

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is anxiety? What causes it? Why is there so much anxiety in a time of such prosperity?
Tuesday—What is the point of the parable of the Rich Fool? (vv. 16-21) What was at the heart of his sin?
Wednesday—Is it wrong to work hard or to save for retirement? (Proverbs 13:22) What is the difference between godly planning and the Rich Fool?
Thursday—What is the lesson we are meant to learn from the ravens and the lilies? (vv. 24-28) How does verse 32 help drive that lesson home?
Friday—What does it mean to live in freedom? What does it look like in your heart? How is it shown in your life?

Confidence in the love of God means that you do not need to fear sickness, loss of freedom, or even death.

What is Hidden… (vv. 1, 3-5)
1. What Hypocrisy Isn’t (v. 1)
2. What Hypocrisy Is (v. 3)
3. What Drives Hypocrisy (vv. 1, 4-5)
4. …Shall be Revealed (vv. 2, 6-12)
5. Where Hypocrisy is Revealed (vv. 2, 9-11)
6. Where Hypocrisy is Defeated (vv. 6-8, 11-12)
7. Where Hypocrisy is Absent
8. Discussion Starters
9. Monday—What are phobias? What are some things you fear? What do you fear most?
10. Tuesday—What is (and isn’t) hypocrisy? What does Jesus mean that hypocrisy is hidden?
11. Wednesday—What drives hypocrisy? How does this help you understand how to battle (and conquer) hypocrisy?
12. Thursday—When is hypocrisy revealed? Why do hard times bring our true selves to the surface?
13. Friday—What is the only cure for hypocrisy? How does God’s love comfort you when your health, freedom, or life are threatened?

Jesus promises that all who surrender their heart to him will be washed and made clean.

The Pharisees and the Lawyers
1. The Pharisees and Holy Living (vv. 37-39)
2. The Lawyers and Rule Keeping (vv. 46-47)
3. When the Solution is Worse than the Problem (vv. 42-45, 48-54)
4. What Really Matters
5. What Dishes (and the Law) Can Teach You (vv. 39-40, 46)
6. Baptize Your Hearts (v. 41)
7. Washed in the Blood

Discussion Starters

Monday—What do people typically identify as their greatest problem? Something inside or outside? What is your greatest problem?
Tuesday—Who were the Pharisees? What did they see as Israel’s greatest need? Did their solution help or hurt? What are parallels in today’s world?
Wednesday—Who were the lawyers? What did they see as Israel’s greatest need? Did their solution help or hurt? What are parallels in today’s world?
Thursday—What is more important—the outside or the inside? What does that mean God is most concerned about with you?
Friday—What does it mean to offer your heart to God? Is this something you can do halfway? Is there any other way to peace with God?

The faithful preaching of the word of God is more important and a greater blessing than all the signs and wonders you could experience in this life.

The Desires of a Wicked Generation (v. 29)
1. How We Define Blessing (v. 29)
2. What Really Drives Us
3. “What have you done for us lately?” (vv. 29-30)
4. Jonah and the Queen of Sheba (vv. 31-32)
5. The Queen and Solomon (v. 31)
6. Jonah Among the Ninevites (vv. 32)
7. True Blessing (vv. 27-28, 33-36)
8. A Life Illumined by God's Word (vv. 27-28, 33-36)
9. No Greater Sign

Discussion Starters

Monday—Do you ever crave the spectacular? Why do you think it’s so appealing? Why are Jesus words about seeking signs so sobering? (v. 29)
Tuesday—Why is the death and resurrection of Jesus on the third day, the greatest sign we could ever ask for? When you question God’s love, is this where you go for assurance?
Wednesday—What are the lessons we are supposed to learn from the Queen of Sheba and the Ninevites? What prevents you from reading and listening to God’s word? How is God calling you to re-evaluate your priorities?
Thursday—Why does Jesus challenge the woman who pronounces a blessing on his mother? (vv. 27-28) Is he denying that Mary was blessed? What is trying to help you understand?
Friday—What does it mean to see “wonder in the ordinary” or “beauty in simplicity”? Where is God calling you to put your focus? What do you need to repent of?

The only division in this world that truly matters is between those who follow Jesus and those who don't.

A House Divided (vv. 14-15, 17-22)
1. Overt Hostility (vv. 14-15)
2. A Kingdom Divided (vv. 17-19)
3. The Kingdom Has Arrived (vv. 20-22; Exodus 8:16-19)
4. For Him or Against Him (vv. 16, 23-27)
5. Self Interest (v. 16)
6. Empty Houses (vv. 23-27)
7. Drawing Lines (v. 23; 9:50)
8. Getting the Lines Right (v. 23; cf. 9:50)
9. One Loaf, One Body (1 Corinthians 10:16–17)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What’s the difference between running from the consequences of your sin and running to God? What do you think it means to run to God?
Tuesday—What do you think could lead people to see the clear work of God and attribute it to Satan? What does that tell you about the power of prejudice? Do you ever interpret things unfairly because of your own prejudice?
Wednesday—What does Jesus mean that the kingdom of God has come? (v. 20) Do you acknowledge that God’s kingdom has arrived? Where is it experienced?
Thursday—What was the sin of those who simply wanted to put Jesus to the test, asking him to do more signs? (v. 16) What is the difference between someone who wants Jesus to help clean up their lives and someone who surrenders his or her life to Jesus?
Friday—What are the two temptations we face when it comes to drawing lines? Which one do you struggle with more? What is the Lord calling to you to confess and address in your life?

The Sinner’s Prayer

Luke 11:1-13 | Deuteronomy 8:1-10

Prayer humbly seeks God's holiness and the strength to pursue it.

Why Prayer is So Hard (vv. 1-2) Prayer is Humiliating Prayer is Unnatural (vv. 1-2)

What We Pray For (vv. 2-4) Holiness (vv. 2, 4) Strength (vv. 3, 13; Deuteronomy 8:1-10)

Why Prayer Works (vv. 5-13) God Loves Us (vv. 5-12) Jesus Humbled Himself in Prayer (and Death) (v. 1) Tomorrow’s Bread (vv. 3, 13; Deuteronomy 8:3)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that prayer takes strength? What scares you about prayer? What keeps people from asking for God’s grace?

Tuesday—Why do the disciples ask to be taught how to pray? Do you think of prayer as something that you need to learn how to do? Why or why not?

Wednesday—What does it mean that the Lord’s Prayer is about praying for holiness? How do verses 2 and 4 relate to holiness? Why is this a scary thing to pray for?

Thursday—What does it mean to pray for today’s bread? What about tomorrow’s bread?Which do you tend to focus on more in your prayers?

Friday—What confidence do you have that God will hear and answer your prayers? Does this mean he will give you anything you ask for?

God calls you to rejoice and take comfort not in what you do for him, but in what he has done for you.

Names Written in Heaven (vv. 17-24)
1. Demons Obeying and Satan Falling (vv. 17-19)
2. The Cause for True Joy (vv. 20-24)
3. Rescued by God (vv. 25-37)
4. Life through the Law? (vv. 25-29; cf. Deuteronomy 6:5, 16; Leviticus 19:18)
5. The Parable, the Law, and the Character of God (vv. 30-35; cf. Leviticus 19:33-34)
6. Who is My Neighbor? (vv. 36-37)
7. Sitting in Awe of the Savior (vv. 38-42)
8. Serving and Being Served (vv. 38-40)
9. The One Necessary Thing (vv. 41-42)Discussion Starters
10. Monday—What common misunderstandings about how we relate to God does this passage address? Which of these misunderstandings do you identify with?
11. Tuesday—Do you ever envy the disciples for the power they were given to do signs and wonders? How are Jesus’ words in Luke 10:29 meant to speak to you?
12. Wednesday—What are the faulty assumptions of the lawyer as he approaches Jesus? (Luke 10:25, 29) How you tended to read the parable of the Good Samaritan? Has anything changed?
13. Thursday—With whom do you identify—Martha or Mary? How do you think God is calling you to learn to slow down and bask in his love and goodness?
14. Friday—What (who) is “the good portion”? What does Jesus mean that those who choose the good portion shall not have it taken away? How is this meant to comfort you?

The gospel message is repulsive to this world and will be rejected by many—our job is to preach it, not change the hearts of those who hear it.

Turning toward Jerusalem (9:51-56)
1. Pressing toward the Cross (9:51)
2. The Offense of the Cross (9:52-56)
3. Ministry and the Cross (9:57 - 10:16)
4. A Call to the Cross (9:57 - 10:2)
5. The Shape of the Cross (10:3-9)
6. Human Responsibility (10:10-15)
7. Setting our Faces toward Jerusalem (9:51; 10:16)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that we “struggle with the cross”? Do you struggle with the idea that sometimes things won’t get better? That God might call you to surrender without seeing victory?
Tuesday—What does it mean that Jesus turned his face toward Jerusalem? (9:51) Why would those in Samaria reject him because he turned his face toward Jerusalem? (9:53)
Wednesday—How does the cross of Jesus shape the ministry of the church? How does it uniquely shape pastoral ministry? How does it shape the ministry of all believers?
Thursday—What is the responsibility of the church when it comes to evangelism? What is the responsibility of those who hear the preaching of the gospel?
Friday—Why did Jesus add that it’s not you that is being rejected, but him and his father (10:16)? How is this meant to be a comfort to you?

True repentance admits guilt and responsibility, yielding all rights, hoping only for grace which is not deserved.

Our Struggle with Repentance
1. Humbling
2. Incriminating
3. Yields all Rights
4. A Call to the Church (vv. 12-13, 15-16)
5. For Whom the Horn Blows? (vv. 12-13, 15-16)
6. Judgment Begins in the House of God (1 Peter 4:17; Revelation 2-3)
7. Defender of the Defenseless (vv. 13-14, 17)
8. What Repentance Looks Like
9. Sincere Sorrow (vv. 12-13)
10. Turning from the World (v. 16)
11. A Contrite Heart He Will Not Despise (v. 14; Psalm 51:15-17)

Discussion Starters

Monday—Why do we like it when others repent, but hate to repent ourselves?
Tuesday—Why is it important to remember that the call to repentance in the book of Joel is addressed at the church? What is the danger of the church forgetting that it needs to repent regularly?
Wednesday—Why do you think we struggle with the idea of corporate repentance? Is the Bible opposed to the idea of corporate repentance?
Thursday—What does it mean to rend your hearts and not your garments? What does true repentance look like?
Friday—What does it mean that our worthiness is found in admitting our unworthiness? Why is that which scares us the most, the only way to find comfort?

God’s greatness is demonstrated in power over evil, in love for the weak, and those who humbly serve others.

God’s Greatness in Power (vv. 37-43a)
1. The Weakness of the Disciples (vv. 37-41)
2. The Greatness of Jesus (vv. 42-43a)
3. God’s Greatness in Love (vv. 43b-46)
4. What True Greatness Looks Like (vv. 43b-44)
5. When You Can't Recognize Greatness (vv. 45-46)
6. God’s Greatness in Us (vv. 47-50)
7. Receiving the Least (vv. 47-48)
8. Receiving Competition (vv. 49-50)
9. Tasting Greatness

Discussion Starters

Monday—How is Jesus’ greatness shown in his power over the demon? What are some ways that God has shown his greatness in power in your life? How should you respond?
Tuesday—How is Jesus’ greatness shown in his love for the church? Why is this sometimes hard to recognize? When was the last time you thanked him for dying for you?
Wednesday—Why were the disciples afraid to ask Jesus questions (v. 45) about his statement in verse 44? What keeps you from asking more questions? Why don’t you need to be afraid?
Thursday—What does it mean to “receive the least”? (v. 48) Why is it so hard for us to bring ourselves low for others?
Friday—What are some lines that you drawn that the Lord hasn’t? What have been the effects to the church? Is there anyone from whom you need to seek forgiveness?

Don’t lose your patience in the midst of injustice and adversity while you wait for the compassion and mercy of the Lord.

Followers of Jesus are known by their participation in his suffering and glory.

Our hope is not in our abilities, but in the God whose power is made perfect in our weakness.

God's love lead him to allow his beloved son to die in order to cleanse us from our sin.

Jesus is the God of Israel, who rules over all creation and assures you that he will deliver you from your greatest enemies.

Baptism is a constant reminder that we must put sin to death on the cross that we might live in the power of the resurrection to God.

The Sower and the Soils
Luke 8:1-21

The only way to weather life's threats and storms is to be deeply rooted in God's word.

1 The Dangers Seeds Face (vv. 1-7, 12-14)
A. The Sower (vv. 1, 4-5, 9)
B. The Path (vv. 5, 12) The Rocks (vv. 6, 13)
C. The Thorns (vv. 7, 14)

Fertile Soil (vv. 1-21)
A. Can Anyone Survive? (vv. 9-10)
B. The Sower in the Seeds (vv. 2-8, 10, 19-21; Genesis 26:12)
C The Royal Family (vv. 2-3, 8, 15-18)
D. The Seeds and You (vv. 2-3, 8, 15-18)
E. The Sower’s Portrait

Discussion Starters
Monday—What is the danger of loving Jesus, but not being deeply rooted in God’s word?
Tuesday—What struggles / temptations do you deal with the most? The lies of the enemy, lack of depth, or the cares and concerns of this life? How can you bring these to Jesus?
Wednesday—How can being deeply rooted in God’s word help you see past the enemy’s lies, endure the seasons of testing, and not be choked by the concerns of this life?
Thursday—Why is it important to remember that you are part of Jesus’ family? How is this meant to be a comfort to you during the hard journey of life?
Friday—What are some things you can do to be better rooted in God’s word? What does it mean to receive it with honesty? Why is patience so important?

Jesus delights in hearts that love him (and others) because they reflect his own heart.

The love of money makes us treasure what doesn’t last and oppress people God calls us to care for.

Unmet expectations can be one of the greatest stumbling blocks in life, but can also bring surprising grace and comfort.

Faith in and fear of God are not opposed to each other, but two essential aspects of a heart that impresses God.

Freedom from judgment is only found in freely submitting to the judgment of the Lord.

The gospel teaches us to delight in mercy, even for our enemies because that’s what God does.

God loves to give us hope in the insignificant places of our lives.

God who overcomes our sin, guilt, and bitterness through the gift of a child who is a servant and Redeemer.

Those who understand their inheritance is in heaven are blessed.

The church is a messy place, but it's where the power of Jesus is found in the process of discipleship.

Judging our neighbor and presuming to control the future rejects God’s rightful rule over us.

The road to healing is not found in what you bring, but in who Jesus is.

Discipleship is about learning to lay your life down that Christ might raise you up to something new.

He’s telling you that you don’t need to fear being vulnerable with God because he is merciful and forgiving.

To truly recognize who Jesus is, requires bowing to his authority.

Being a friend of God means unfriending the world by living a humble life of repenting and lamenting.

God calls his children to resist the devil’s temptations by trusting his word, respecting his authority, and recognizing his love.

Baptism is a visible picture of the gospel message that, through Jesus Christ, peace with God is all available to all who truly repent.

Wisdom gives consolation to those who possess it, teaching them to recognize that the only way to eternal life is through death and resurrection.

True wisdom is shown by making peace in the community.

The Lord of heaven came into this world in the most humble of ways because it was the only way to make peace between heaven and earth.

Jesus is the eternal king who shares his kingdom with the weak and humble.

The Lord wants you to be defined by your love for him.

If you love God above all else, you need not fear anything this world can throw at you.

A heart of wisdom recognizes that while your days on earth are few, how use them determines where you spend eternity.

Walking by faith means understanding that things will often appear to be the exact opposite of what they really are.

Lamenting is the appropriate response of hope to a broken world.

Take control of your tongue, which is capable of great good and great evil, that you might bless the Lord and those made in his likeness.

A faith that is true and living must involve works of mercy and compassion.

God roots us to be stable in Jesus Christ that we might walk in his ways with gratitude.

Unity is not found in the accomplishments of man, but in the work of God in and through his church.

God calls you to acknowledge and embrace your poverty because he rescues the poor.

The only remedy for doubt is to focus on the God of mercy.

We shouldn't play favorites because it's diametrically opposed to the mercy that God has shown to us.

God blesses his children with all good things, but we often fail to recognize and appreciate those gifts.

Because God is just and loving, he judges and forgives and his love and justice meet most clearly at the cross of Jesus.

The gospel calls us to love and serve one another and not to quarrel over opinions.

You are Gods Psalm 82 | John 10:29-39 God calls leaders in his church to serve and promises to judge those who abuse their office. I. Men Who Think They’re Gods (vv. vv. 1-5) A. Those Appointed to Rule (vv. 1-4; cf. Ex 21:6; 22:8-9, 28) B. Using Rule for Your Own Benefit (vv. 2, 5; cf. Deuteronomy 1:17; Galatians 2:6) II. Judgment is the Lord’s (vv. 6-8) A. God’s Response (vv. 6-8) B. Leaders in the Church III. The God Who Made Himself a Man (John 10:29-39) A. Defending God (Without Defending God) (John 10:29-33) B. The Real Issue (v. 6; John 10:34-39) C. God in the Flesh (John 21:15-19) Discussion Starters 1. Monday—What did God mean when he told Moses that he would be “as God to Aaron”? (Exodus 4:16) In what way is bringing issues in the church to the leaders, bringing them to God? 2. Tuesday—What does it mean to show partiality? Why does God hate it? Why is it such a temptation to leaders? 3. Wednesday—How does God respond to leaders us use their authority for their own gain? Is there any where they can go to escape his judgment? 4. Thursday—What hope is there for leaders when they fail? Does any failure mean they need to quit? Why or why not? 5. Friday—Why is it surprising that the true God was willing to become a man? How does this shape our understanding of what leaders should be in his church?

God’s Word is a good and perfect gift for those who not only hear it but also do it.

I. The Life Giving Word (1:16-18)

A. Good Gifts of the Father of Lights (1:16-17; cf. 1 John 1:5; Matthew 7:7–11)
B. Born by the Word (1:18; cf. 1 Peter 1:23; John 1:13)

II. The Implanted Word (1:19-21)

A. Unjust Anger (1:19-20; cf. Exodus 2:11-12; Deuteronomy 32:35)
B. Welcoming with Meekness (1:21; cf. Galatians 5:22-24; James 3:13; Matthew 13:1-9; 1 Corinthians 15:2)

III. The Blessing of the Word (1:22-27)

A. Doing the Word (1:22-25; cf. Romans 2:13; Matthew 7:24–27; Psalm 1:2; Exodus 18:20)
B. Is Your Religion Worthless or True? (1:26-27; cf. Psalm 68:5)
C. The Good Word from Above
D. Taste and See God’s Goodness

Discussion Starters

Monday—Do you ever question God’s goodness? Why or why not? What’s James’s point when he refers to God as “the Father of lights?” How does that instill confidence in us?
Tuesday—Discuss the contrast of sin giving birth to death and the Father giving birth by the word? What does it mean to be a “kind of first fruits of his creatures”?
Wednesday—What kind of anger does not lead to the justice of God?
Thursday—Discuss what it means to receive the implanted word with meekness. What sort of salvation is James referring to when he says the word is “able to save your souls”?
Friday—Why do you think we it might be hard for us to believe that we will be blessed in our doing?

God’s call to listen is a command to surrender your life and eternity to him and place your life in his hands.

HEARING, BUT NOT HEARING (vv. 4-10)

a. The Cry from Egypt (vv. 4-7; Exodus 2:23; Deuteronomy 6:4-15)

b. The Test at Meribah (vv. 7-10; Exodus 17:1-7) 2. THE WORST PUNISHMENT IMAGINABLE (vv. 11-12)
a. They Did not Listen (v. 11)
b. I Gave them What they Wanted (v. 12; cf. Romans 1:18ff) 3. OPEN WIDE YOUR MOUTH (vv. 1-3, 13-16)
a. Honey from the Rock (vv. 10, 13-16; John 7:37-38)
b. Like a Bear Catching Salmon (v. 10)
c. Two Things to Do with Your Mouth (vv. 1-3)

Discussion Starters:

Monday—Why do you think the Bible places so much emphasis on listening over speaking? Why do we struggle to listen?

Tuesday—What is the “shema”? (Deuteronomy 6:4-15) Why do you think God told the people to listen before this most important command?
Wednesday—How was God testing Israel at Meribah? What lesson should they have learned? Thursday—Why is giving us what we want the worst punishment God could give us? What happens when we get what we want?
Friday—What does God mean that you only need to open wide your mouth? (v. 10) Why does the psalmist say that honey came out of the rock? (v. 16)

Fed on Tears Psalm 80 Tears will come, sometimes overwhelmingly so, but if you belong to Jesus they must surrender to eternal joy. I. A Diet of Tears (vv. 4-6) A. Jesus B. Israel (vv. 4-6) C. You II. Longing for Restoration (vv. 1-3, 7-19) A. Restore Us! (vv. 1-3, 7-19) B. Silence those Who Afflict Us (v. 16) III. The Trail of Tears (vv. 3, 7, 16, 19) A. Why Jesus Suffered B. Turning that Frown Upside Down (vv. 3, 7, 16, 19; 2 Timothy 2:11-13; Philippians 1:6; Joshua 1:5-7) C. Fed on Tears Discussion Starters 1. Monday—What does Psalm 80 mean when it talks about feeding on tears (v. 5)? Have you ever felt like that? 2. Tuesday—What does it mean for God’s face to shine? Have there been times when you’ve felt God’s smile? Have there been times when that smile seems to have faded? 3. Wednesday—What does it mean that restoration looks both forward and backwards? What does the restoration ultimately look like for God’s people? 4. Thursday—Have you ever struggled to make sense out the suffering Jesus endured? How does God teach us to makes sense out of it? 5. Friday—How does the suffering of Jesus give you comfort when times are hard? What promises can you remember in those times?

A Plowman’s Song Psalm 79 One of the greatest gifts God ever gives you is something that brings humility because humility is the only road to glory. I. Two Options (vv. 1-12) A. The Situation (vv. 1-4) B. Find Fault with God (vv. 5-7, 10-12) C. Find Fault with Self (vv. 8-9) II. One Hope (vv. 1-10) A. The Name (vv. 5-9; Exodus 34:6–7) B. For God’s Sake (vv. 1-10) C. For Your Benefit (v. 9; cf. 1 Peter 4:17) III. Three Lessons (v. 8-9, 12-13) A. Repent (vv. 8-9) B. Give Thanks (v. 13; Luke 17:11-19) C. Show Like Kindness (v. 12) D. Street Signs on the Road to Glory (Romans 8:16-17) Discussion Starters 1. Monday—What does it mean to “save face”? What drives the desire to save face? Is this a good or bad thing? 2. Tuesday—Why do you think people find fault with God when things get hard? What does this response assume? Why is it dangerous? 3. Wednesday—What does humility sound like when times get hard? Why is repentance more seen than heard? 4. Thursday—Why is God’s name your only hope when your world comes crashing down? Does God acting for his own sake mean that he is not acting for your benefit? 5. Friday—Why do you think this sermon was titled “A Plowman’s Song”? How does God want you to think of yourself as a plowman? How does this psalm teach you to pray?

Do not boast in your circumstances, but in the God who is overturning the world.

POOR AND RICH (1:9-11)
a. Lowly Boasting (1:9; cf. James 1:4, 4:6;1 Corinthians 1:26–29)
b. Wealthy Boasting (1:10-11; cf. Jeremiah 9:23–24; Luke 12:28, 16:13; 1 Timothy 6:10; Isaiah 40:6–8; Psalm 1:6)
BLESSEDNESS AND DEATH (1:12-15)
a. Blessed Under Trial (1:12; cf. Matthew 5:3-12; Psalm 1:1) Temptation and Test (1:13; cf. Genesis 22:1-14; Exodus 20:20)
b. How to Give Birth to Death (1:13-15; cf. Mark 7:21; Genesis 4:7)
c. Christ Reverses Our Fortunes (2 Corinthians 8:9; Psalm 49:5–9)
d. Meal of Fortunes

Discussion Starters:
Monday—What kinds of people is James contrasting in our passage? What does our culture think about the poor?
Tuesday—What does it mean for the poor to boast in their exaltation? What does it mean for the rich to boast in their humiliation? Discuss why being poor is a form of testing?
Wednesday—Discuss why being rich can also be a form of testing. What are some of the dangers of riches? Why do you think our culture is obsessed with beauty and material things?
Thursday—How does James describe the one who is blessed/happy? Talk about the image of the crown of life and the poverty the blessed person is experiencing.
Friday—What’s the difference between temptation and test? Where does James say is the origin of temptations? What does this tell us about our hearts? Discuss the process of someone giving birth to death.

Planting Seeds
Jeremiah 52:1-34

Being reshaped into the image of God is violent work, but the end is hope and joy.

I. The False King—Zedekiah (vv. 1-11)
A. The Rebel (vv. 1-3)
B. The Captive (vv. 4-11)
C. The Legacy

II. The Rightful King—Jehoiachin (vv. 31-34)
A. The Captive (vv. 31-34)
B. The Heir of David (Jeremiah 33:21; 2 Samuel 7)
C. The Legacy

III. The City, the Temple, and the People (vv. 12-30)
A. The Destruction (vv. 12-15, 17-30)
B. The Remains (v. 16)
C. The Message of Jeremiah
D. The Visible Seed

Discussion Starters
1. Monday—God says that he “plants.” What must happen for a seed to grow and bear fruit (1 Corinthians 15:36; John 12:24)?
2. Tuesday—Who was Zedekiah? What was his legacy?
3. Wednesday—Who was Jehoiachin? What was his legacy?
4. Thursday—Who remained in the land when everything was stripped away? Does this mean that they weren’t important to God? What does this teach us about his priorities and his ways?
5. Friday—What does it mean that being reshaped into the image of God is violent work? Why is it worth it?

Judgment
Jeremiah 50:1 - 51:64; Hebrews 12:5-11

It is only through judgment that God can protect justice, bring salvation, and restore peace.

I. Judgment and God’s Enemies (50:1-16, 35-40)
A. Retributive (50:1-16)
B. Destructive (50:35-40)
C. Permanent (50:39; cf. Revelation 18)

II. Judgment and God’s Children (50:4, 17-34)
A. Corrective (50:4; Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; Hebrews 12:5-7)
B. Productive (50:17-34; Hebrews 12:9)
C. Temporary (50:33-34; Hebrews 12:10-11)

III. What Can Only be Accomplished through Judgment (50:4-5)
A. Vindicate Justice (Revelation 18)
B. Provide Salvation (Isaiah 53:5; Romans 3:26)
C. Bring Peace (50:4-5; Romans 11:1-32)
D. The Emblem of Hope

Discussion Starters
1. Monday—Is judgment a fun subject? Why do we tend to avoid subjects that make us uncomfortable? Why won’t God let us ignore them?
2. Tuesday—What’s the difference between punishment and discipline? When is each appropriate?
3. Wednesday—What are the goals of punishment? Why is punishment destructive and permanent?
4. Thursday—What are the goals of discipline? What does discipline produce?
5. Friday—What does the peace that God accomplishes through judgment look like? With whom does God give us peace? How should that shape the way you live?

Ventriloquist Gods
Jeremiah 42-44

The true God, because he is the creation of no man, cannot be controlled and will always surprise you.

I. Requesting (and Rejecting) God’s Help (42:1–6; 43:1-3)
A. The Request (42:1-6)
B. The Rejection (43:1-3)

II. Stay Put (42:7-22; 43:8-13; 44:11-14)
A. The Command—“Stay Put” (42:7-17)
B. How God Works (Luke 22:42; John 12:27)
C. The Consequences (for Disregarding God) (42:18-22; 43:8-13; 44:11-14)

III. False Gods and Ventriloquist Dummies (44:20-23)
A. What Egypt Offered (44:20-23)
B. The God Who Won’t be Controlled
C. A Surprising Celebration

Discussion Starters
1. Monday—What is the appeal of ventriloquism? Why do the “dummies” always say things that most people wouldn’t be willing to say?
2. Tuesday—Why do you think the Israelites asked God if they should continue on their way to Egypt? Did they ever intend to listen if God said “no”?
3. Wednesday—What was so terrible about God’s instruction to stay in war-torn Jerusalem? Why do you think God told them to stay?
4. Thursday—What was appealing about going to Egypt (and the gods of Egypt)? Why do false gods never surprise us?
5. Friday—What is the danger with a God that can be controlled? Why is a comfort to have a God that can’t be manipulated?

I. Irijah (37:6-15)
A. God Sees?
B. Positively Beastly

II. Ebed-Melech (38:1-13)
A. The Servant of the King
B. Compassionately Human

III. The King (37:1-5,16-21; 38:14-28)
A. Zedekiah—Not the rightful king (37:1-5,16-21; 38:14-28)
B. Jesus—The Truest Human (Colossians 1:15)
C. God Sees (Luke 6:40; Colossians 3:9-12)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What sets humans apart from the rest of creation? What are some ways the image of God shows itself in people?
Tuesday—What did Irijah do to do Jeremiah? What do you think motivated him? Have you ever been tempted to act like him?
Wednesday—Who was Obed-Melech? What did he do? How hard to you think it was to do the right thing in that situation?
Thursday—Why did Nebuchadnezzar want Zedekiah to be king? What did Jeremiah tell Zedekiah to do? Why does it take so much strength to surrender?
Friday—What does it mean that Jesus was the most true human to ever live? How is God at work in your life to make you more and more like Jesus?

Rejoice because our faith grows more and more wisdom-full in the midst of a world full of trials.

STEADFAST FAITH (1:1-4)
a. Brother-Servant (4:1; cf. Acts 15:13-21)
b. Complete Joy in Trials (4:2-3; cf. Luke 10:30; Genesis 37:3; 1 Peter 1:7)
c. The Work of Steadfastness (1:4; cf. )
INDELIBLE WISDOM (4:5-8)
a. The Generous Giver (4:5; cf. 1 Kings 4:29-30; James 2:16)
b. Double-Mindedness (1:6-8; cf. Ephesians 4:14; James 3:9–10, 4:4; Romans 4:20; Psalm 1:1-6)
c. God in a World of Trials (Romans 15:3)
d. A Meal to Make Us Wise

DISCUSSION STARTERS:
Monday—Who was James? Does his name remind you of another biblical character? Discuss the significance James identifying himself as a slave/servant.
Tuesday—Do you think James’s command to count it with complete joy when you are facing adversities? Why is the testing of our faith a good thing?
Wednesday—Discuss what it means for steadfastness to make us perfect and complete. What are the challenges of believing this? What are we tempted to think when we fall under trials?
Thursday—What’s the relationship with faith and wisdom in this passage? Discuss why it’s good news that God gives us wisdom generously, that he is not stingy?
Friday—Describe and discuss the ways of the double-minded person. How does the double-minded person differ from a person filled with wisdom? How can we be assured that God will give us wisdom?

I. Read (vv. 1-10)

A. Write all the Words (vv. 1-3)

B. Carried by Baruch (vv. 4-10)

II. Rejected (vv. 11-26)

A. Family Resemblance (vv. 11-19; cf. 2 Chronicles 34:1-18)

B. Family Divergence (vv. 20-26; cf. 2 Chronicles 34:19-21)

C. Cutting and Burning

III. Resurrected (vv. 27-32)

A. The Indestructible Word (vv. 27-32)

B. As goes the King (vv. 30-31)

C. The Living Word

Discussion Starters

Monday—What does it mean that the heart is desperately sick and deceitful? Who are you most in danger of deceiving?
Tuesday—What does it mean that the word is more important than the messenger who brings it? How are we tempted to reverse this?
Wednesday—What are ways we dismiss parts of God’s word that make us uncomfortable? Why is important to be aware of these?
Thursday—Why is it still important to read this passage about what they did with God’s word so many years later?
Friday—What does it mean that Jesus is “the word of God” (John 1:1)? What does it mean that he is the “indestructible word”?