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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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PSALM 37
1 Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
be not envious of wrongdoers!
2 For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb.
1 Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
be not envious of wrongdoers!
2 For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb.
3 Trust in the Lord, and do good;
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
4 Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
4 Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him, and he will act.
6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.
trust in him, and he will act.
6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.
7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;
fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,
over the man who carries out evil devices!
fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,
over the man who carries out evil devices!
8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!
Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.
9 For the evildoers shall be cut off,
but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.
Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.
9 For the evildoers shall be cut off,
but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.
10 In just a little while, the wicked will be no more;
though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.
11 But the meek shall inherit the land
and delight themselves in abundant peace.
though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.
11 But the meek shall inherit the land
and delight themselves in abundant peace.
12 The wicked plots against the righteous
and gnashes his teeth at him,
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he sees that his day is coming.
and gnashes his teeth at him,
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he sees that his day is coming.
14 The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose way is upright;
15 their sword shall enter their own heart,
and their bows shall be broken.
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose way is upright;
15 their sword shall enter their own heart,
and their bows shall be broken.
16 Better is the little that the righteous has
than the abundance of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.
than the abundance of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.
18 The Lord knows the days of the blameless,
and their heritage will remain forever;
19 they are not put to shame in evil times;
in the days of famine they have abundance.
and their heritage will remain forever;
19 they are not put to shame in evil times;
in the days of famine they have abundance.
20 But the wicked will perish;
the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures;
they vanish—like smoke they vanish away.
the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures;
they vanish—like smoke they vanish away.
21 The wicked borrows but does not pay back,
but the righteous is generous and gives;
22 for those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land,
but those cursed by him shall be cut off.
but the righteous is generous and gives;
22 for those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land,
but those cursed by him shall be cut off.
23 The steps of a man are established by the Lord,
when he delights in his way;
24 though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.
when he delights in his way;
24 though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.
25 I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread.
26 He is ever lending generously,
and his children become a blessing.
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread.
26 He is ever lending generously,
and his children become a blessing.
27 Turn away from evil and do good;
so shall you dwell forever.
28 For the Lord loves justice;
he will not forsake his saints.
They are preserved forever,
but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
29 The righteous shall inherit the land
and dwell upon it forever.
so shall you dwell forever.
28 For the Lord loves justice;
he will not forsake his saints.
They are preserved forever,
but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
29 The righteous shall inherit the land
and dwell upon it forever.
30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom,
and his tongue speaks justice.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his steps do not slip.
and his tongue speaks justice.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his steps do not slip.
32 The wicked watches for the righteous
and seeks to put him to death.
33 The Lord will not abandon him to his power
or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.
and seeks to put him to death.
33 The Lord will not abandon him to his power
or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.
34 Wait for the Lord and keep his way,
and he will exalt you to inherit the land;
you will look on when the wicked are cut off.
and he will exalt you to inherit the land;
you will look on when the wicked are cut off.
35 I have seen a wicked, ruthless man,
spreading himself like a green laurel tree.
36 But he passed away, and behold, he was no more;
though I sought him, he could not be found.
spreading himself like a green laurel tree.
36 But he passed away, and behold, he was no more;
though I sought him, he could not be found.
37 Mark the blameless and behold the upright,
for there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed;
the future of the wicked shall be cut off.
for there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed;
the future of the wicked shall be cut off.
39 The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
40 The Lord helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.
he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
40 The Lord helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.
FROM THE LESSON
Psalm 37 is an instructional psalm in the Wisdom Literature genre, concerning itself with passing on advice that will help someone live in a way that leads to wisdom, righteousness, and life, rather than foolishness, wickedness, and death.
"Fret not" is a phrase that occurs several times in the psalm. It carries a strong meaning, literally translated as "do not let your anger burn".
Verse 1 - the WHAT
Do not be overwhelmed by your anger over the wicked and prosperous actions of others.
Verse 2 - the WHY
The prosperity of the wicked is fleeting, and evil brings its own terrible consequences.
Verse 3 - the HOW
Trust God, do good, dwell in the land, and befriend faithfulness.
Psalm 37 is an instructional psalm in the Wisdom Literature genre, concerning itself with passing on advice that will help someone live in a way that leads to wisdom, righteousness, and life, rather than foolishness, wickedness, and death.
"Fret not" is a phrase that occurs several times in the psalm. It carries a strong meaning, literally translated as "do not let your anger burn".
Verse 1 - the WHAT
Do not be overwhelmed by your anger over the wicked and prosperous actions of others.
Verse 2 - the WHY
The prosperity of the wicked is fleeting, and evil brings its own terrible consequences.
Verse 3 - the HOW
Trust God, do good, dwell in the land, and befriend faithfulness.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
ICE BREAKER: Jeremy shared some observations about "unfairness" that children make. What are some things you've observed that are "unfair" in a similar way?
- David composes this psalm to address the challenge that followers of God face when they watch people who seem to profit from wickedness. What does "profitable wickedness" look like today?
- David writes about how the tools of the wicked will be turned against them. How does evil bring its own terrible consequences? What might this look like?
- Instead of repaying evil with evil, David encourages us to trust God, do good, dwell in the land, and befriend faithfulness.
- What do you think is intended by the phrase "dwell in the land"?
- Do these seem like adequate responses to egregious injustice and wickedness?
- Jeremy contrasted two responses to perceived injustice - that of the United Healthcare shooter and that of MLK Jr. and the civil rights movement. Which sort of response do you see our culture moving more towards? Which response do you see Christians moving toward? How can we make sure we respond in the way David instructs in Psalm 37?
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
PSALM 35
1 Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. 2 Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. 3 Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, “I am your salvation." 4 May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. 5 May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away; 6 may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them. 7 Since they hid their net for me without cause and without cause dug a pit for me, 8 may ruin overtake them by surprise—may the net they hid entangle them, may they fall into the pit, to their ruin. 9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation. 10 My whole being will exclaim, “Who is like you, O Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them.” 11 Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about. 12 They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved. 13 Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered, 14 I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother. 15 But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware. They slandered me without ceasing. 16 Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked; they gnashed their teeth at me. 17 How long, Lord, will you look on? Rescue me from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. 18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you. 19 Let not those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; let not those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. 20 They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations against those who live quietly in the land. 21 They gape at me and say, “Aha! Aha! With our own eyes we have seen it." 22 O Lord, you have seen this; be not silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. 23 Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. 24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me. 25 Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.” 26 May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. 27 May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant.” 28 My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.
1 Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. 2 Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. 3 Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, “I am your salvation." 4 May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. 5 May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away; 6 may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them. 7 Since they hid their net for me without cause and without cause dug a pit for me, 8 may ruin overtake them by surprise—may the net they hid entangle them, may they fall into the pit, to their ruin. 9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation. 10 My whole being will exclaim, “Who is like you, O Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them.” 11 Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about. 12 They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved. 13 Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered, 14 I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother. 15 But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware. They slandered me without ceasing. 16 Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked; they gnashed their teeth at me. 17 How long, Lord, will you look on? Rescue me from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. 18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you. 19 Let not those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; let not those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. 20 They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations against those who live quietly in the land. 21 They gape at me and say, “Aha! Aha! With our own eyes we have seen it." 22 O Lord, you have seen this; be not silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. 23 Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. 24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me. 25 Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.” 26 May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. 27 May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant.” 28 My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.
FROM THE LESSON
Schadenfreude - it is a German word that literally means "harm-joy" and has come to mean "the pleasure that is derived from another's misfortune."
Imprecatory Psalms - to imprecate is a word that means to utter a curse against someone or something. The imprecatory psalms are psalms which call for God’s judgment to fall down on the wicked. Of the 150 psalms in our Bible, anywhere between 14-28 of them are put in this category of imprecatory psalms.
Three Things to Know about Imprecatory Psalms:
1 Complaint is a good and necessary thing.
2 Cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
3 Cursing becomes blessing at the cross.
Three Responses to Reading Psalm 35:
1 We agree with David that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
2 We admit that cursing is God's right response to my sin and disobedience.
3 We allow this reality to motivate us to tell others about the cross of Jesus Christ.
Schadenfreude - it is a German word that literally means "harm-joy" and has come to mean "the pleasure that is derived from another's misfortune."
Imprecatory Psalms - to imprecate is a word that means to utter a curse against someone or something. The imprecatory psalms are psalms which call for God’s judgment to fall down on the wicked. Of the 150 psalms in our Bible, anywhere between 14-28 of them are put in this category of imprecatory psalms.
Three Things to Know about Imprecatory Psalms:
1 Complaint is a good and necessary thing.
2 Cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
3 Cursing becomes blessing at the cross.
Three Responses to Reading Psalm 35:
1 We agree with David that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
2 We admit that cursing is God's right response to my sin and disobedience.
3 We allow this reality to motivate us to tell others about the cross of Jesus Christ.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 One of the primary things David is wrestling with in this psalm is schadenfreude. Read verses 15-16, 19, 24, and 26. People were rejoicing over his misfortune. How have you seen or experienced this in your life?
2 Read verses 17 and 22. Biblical complaint is communicating with God about the tension created between what we know about God's character and how we feel about our circumstances. Talk about Biblical complaint with your group.
3 Read verses 4-6 and 26-27. How do you hear these words of cursing from David? Have you ever felt like this toward anyone else? Does knowing that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience help you to better understand his words?
4 Read Galatians 3:13-14. Cursing becomes blessing at the cross. Discuss this gospel reality with your group.
5 Read over the three responses to reading Psalm 35 that are listed in the section above. Which one of these responses did you connect with the most this morning?
1 One of the primary things David is wrestling with in this psalm is schadenfreude. Read verses 15-16, 19, 24, and 26. People were rejoicing over his misfortune. How have you seen or experienced this in your life?
2 Read verses 17 and 22. Biblical complaint is communicating with God about the tension created between what we know about God's character and how we feel about our circumstances. Talk about Biblical complaint with your group.
3 Read verses 4-6 and 26-27. How do you hear these words of cursing from David? Have you ever felt like this toward anyone else? Does knowing that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience help you to better understand his words?
4 Read Galatians 3:13-14. Cursing becomes blessing at the cross. Discuss this gospel reality with your group.
5 Read over the three responses to reading Psalm 35 that are listed in the section above. Which one of these responses did you connect with the most this morning?
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
PSALM 34
1 I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2 My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. 8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. 9 Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. 14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. 21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.
1 I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2 My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. 8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. 9 Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. 14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. 21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.
FROM THE LESSON
The Story Behind the Psalm: you can read about the historical context of this psalm in 1 Samuel 21:10-15.
Two Kinds of Fear: David deals with two very different kinds of fear in this psalm. First, there is the fear addressed in verse 4 which scholars refer to as "mortal fear." It is a very negative kind of fear. It is synonymous with dread and terror. It is an intense, irrational kind of fear that comes from trouble. Second, there is the fear addresses in verses 7 and 9 which scholars refer to as "saving fear." It is an extremely positive kind of fear. It is a humble, relational kind of fear that comes from trust.
Four Parts of Psalm 34:
Words of Introduction (verses 1-3)
Words of Illustration (verses 4-7)
Words of Invitation (verses 8-10)
Words of Instruction (verses 11-22)
Worship is a Choice: it must be a conscious decision made beforehand that no matter what the circumstances I am going to choose to worship God.
Process of Praying through Unhealthy Fear: Seek the Lord in prayer - Trust that the Lord hears and answers your prayer - Know that the Lord delivers and saves His people
The Story Behind the Psalm: you can read about the historical context of this psalm in 1 Samuel 21:10-15.
Two Kinds of Fear: David deals with two very different kinds of fear in this psalm. First, there is the fear addressed in verse 4 which scholars refer to as "mortal fear." It is a very negative kind of fear. It is synonymous with dread and terror. It is an intense, irrational kind of fear that comes from trouble. Second, there is the fear addresses in verses 7 and 9 which scholars refer to as "saving fear." It is an extremely positive kind of fear. It is a humble, relational kind of fear that comes from trust.
Four Parts of Psalm 34:
Words of Introduction (verses 1-3)
Words of Illustration (verses 4-7)
Words of Invitation (verses 8-10)
Words of Instruction (verses 11-22)
Worship is a Choice: it must be a conscious decision made beforehand that no matter what the circumstances I am going to choose to worship God.
Process of Praying through Unhealthy Fear: Seek the Lord in prayer - Trust that the Lord hears and answers your prayer - Know that the Lord delivers and saves His people
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Do you have a go-to worship song when you are struggling with fear, anxiety or worry? How have you made worship a choice in your life?
2 Read verses 4-6 in this psalm. David shares a prayer process twice in these verses for emphasis. How have you seen this process in your own life?
3 One of the most well-known verses in all of Scripture is Psalm 34:8, "Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed are all who trust in Him." How has this verse ministered to you in your life? Is the Lord inviting you to something more in your relationship with Him?
4 Was the discussion of the two different kinds of fear helpful for you this morning? In what ways? How have you experienced the mortal fear of verse 4? How have you experienced the saving fear of verses 7 and 9?
1 Do you have a go-to worship song when you are struggling with fear, anxiety or worry? How have you made worship a choice in your life?
2 Read verses 4-6 in this psalm. David shares a prayer process twice in these verses for emphasis. How have you seen this process in your own life?
3 One of the most well-known verses in all of Scripture is Psalm 34:8, "Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed are all who trust in Him." How has this verse ministered to you in your life? Is the Lord inviting you to something more in your relationship with Him?
4 Was the discussion of the two different kinds of fear helpful for you this morning? In what ways? How have you experienced the mortal fear of verse 4? How have you experienced the saving fear of verses 7 and 9?
Sunday Dec 29, 2024
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Sunday Dec 15, 2024
Sunday Dec 15, 2024
LUKE 2:8-20
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I will bring you good news of greta joy that will be for all people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a greta company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I will bring you good news of greta joy that will be for all people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a greta company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
FROM THE LESSON
Signs in the Bible - when something was too good to be true and too great to be real, a sign was given to encourage and to confirm belief.
Parabola of Salvation - the good news of the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and the ascension. The good news of the gospel includes a manger, a cross, an empty tomb, and a crown.
Presence Matters - the good news of the manger is that presence matters to God. When God seems distant to you, let the manger remind you of the distance God came to be with you.
Donkey Dish - the word "manger" comes from a Latin word meaning "to eat" or "to chew." The manger was a feeding trough for dirty animals.
The Helper - "Is anyone crying for help? God is listening and He is ready to rescue you. If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; and if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath." Psalm 34:17-18 (The Message)
Signs in the Bible - when something was too good to be true and too great to be real, a sign was given to encourage and to confirm belief.
Parabola of Salvation - the good news of the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and the ascension. The good news of the gospel includes a manger, a cross, an empty tomb, and a crown.
Presence Matters - the good news of the manger is that presence matters to God. When God seems distant to you, let the manger remind you of the distance God came to be with you.
Donkey Dish - the word "manger" comes from a Latin word meaning "to eat" or "to chew." The manger was a feeding trough for dirty animals.
The Helper - "Is anyone crying for help? God is listening and He is ready to rescue you. If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; and if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath." Psalm 34:17-18 (The Message)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Icebreaker: What is the closest you have ever been to a United States president? Share the details with your group.
2 Has God ever seemed distant to you? Have you ever been through a season in your life when God felt distant and far away? Share the details with your group.
3 The nearness of the King means He has come to be with us. Talk about the importance of God's presence with your group.
4 The nearness of the King means He has come to know us and to be known by us. Discuss both the humility and the accessibility of the manger.
5 The nearness of the King means He has come to help us. The Greek word for Helper means one who is called alongside to help (to comfort, to encourage, to empower, to sustain). How have you experienced the help of the Lord?
1 Icebreaker: What is the closest you have ever been to a United States president? Share the details with your group.
2 Has God ever seemed distant to you? Have you ever been through a season in your life when God felt distant and far away? Share the details with your group.
3 The nearness of the King means He has come to be with us. Talk about the importance of God's presence with your group.
4 The nearness of the King means He has come to know us and to be known by us. Discuss both the humility and the accessibility of the manger.
5 The nearness of the King means He has come to help us. The Greek word for Helper means one who is called alongside to help (to comfort, to encourage, to empower, to sustain). How have you experienced the help of the Lord?
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
LUKE 1:8-17
8 Once when Zechariah's division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshippers were praying outside. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. 13 But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his birth. 16 Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous - to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
8 Once when Zechariah's division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshippers were praying outside. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. 13 But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his birth. 16 Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous - to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
FROM THE LESSON
A Christmas Carol - "Good Spirit, assure me that I may yet change these shadows you have shown me, by an altered life. I will honor Christmas in my heart." Ebenezer Scrooge
Preparation Day - the Israelites had a day designated each week, a day that was part of their weekly routine called the Preparation Day. It was always the day before the Sabbath. In order to keep the Sabbath properly, adequate preparation was necessary.
Make Ready A People Prepared - in ancient times, before a King visited any part of his realm, a messenger was sent before him to prepare the way. And this included everything from repairing the roads to preparing the people. This was the specific role for John the Baptist in the coming of Jesus.
Lamps Without Oil - this is meant to be comical. This is not an accident. It is making a choice to be unprepared. The equivalent today would be showing up for something just holding a light bulb, instead of bringing a flashlight.
KB - he is a Christian hip-hop artist and music executive. He has a podcast called The Southside Rabbi and has written a book titled "Dangerous Jesus." He reminded us that Christianity is not about coming to a building to hear about the King, but about the King coming into our life.
A Christmas Carol - "Good Spirit, assure me that I may yet change these shadows you have shown me, by an altered life. I will honor Christmas in my heart." Ebenezer Scrooge
Preparation Day - the Israelites had a day designated each week, a day that was part of their weekly routine called the Preparation Day. It was always the day before the Sabbath. In order to keep the Sabbath properly, adequate preparation was necessary.
Make Ready A People Prepared - in ancient times, before a King visited any part of his realm, a messenger was sent before him to prepare the way. And this included everything from repairing the roads to preparing the people. This was the specific role for John the Baptist in the coming of Jesus.
Lamps Without Oil - this is meant to be comical. This is not an accident. It is making a choice to be unprepared. The equivalent today would be showing up for something just holding a light bulb, instead of bringing a flashlight.
KB - he is a Christian hip-hop artist and music executive. He has a podcast called The Southside Rabbi and has written a book titled "Dangerous Jesus." He reminded us that Christianity is not about coming to a building to hear about the King, but about the King coming into our life.
Sunday Dec 01, 2024
Sunday Dec 01, 2024
ISAIAH 9:6-7
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
FROM THE LESSON
An Anointed Person - in Hebrew (the language of the Old Testament) the word is meshiach, from which we get the title, Messiah. In Greek (the language of the New Testament) the word is christos, from which we get the title, Christ.
A Promise to David - "When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom...and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father and he will be my son...Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." (2 Samuel 7:12-16)
14 Generations - in Matthew's genealogy, there are fourteen generations from no king to a king (Abraham to David), fourteen generations from a king to no king (David to exile), and fourteen generations from no king to a king (exile to Jesus).
Drum Roll Please - “The average person who thinks maybe I’ll read the New Testament is puzzled to find, on the very first page, a long list of names he or she had never heard of. But it is important not to think that this is a waste of time. For many cultures ancient and modern, and certainly in the Jewish world of Matthew’s day, this genealogy was the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets and a town crier calling for attention.” (NT Wright)
Eager Expectation - it is a word found only in Christian literature. Paul used it twice in the New Testament (Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20). In fact, most scholars think it was a word coined by the early Christians to describe their unique way of living. Literally the word means "to stretch your head away from your body."
An Anointed Person - in Hebrew (the language of the Old Testament) the word is meshiach, from which we get the title, Messiah. In Greek (the language of the New Testament) the word is christos, from which we get the title, Christ.
A Promise to David - "When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom...and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father and he will be my son...Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." (2 Samuel 7:12-16)
14 Generations - in Matthew's genealogy, there are fourteen generations from no king to a king (Abraham to David), fourteen generations from a king to no king (David to exile), and fourteen generations from no king to a king (exile to Jesus).
Drum Roll Please - “The average person who thinks maybe I’ll read the New Testament is puzzled to find, on the very first page, a long list of names he or she had never heard of. But it is important not to think that this is a waste of time. For many cultures ancient and modern, and certainly in the Jewish world of Matthew’s day, this genealogy was the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets and a town crier calling for attention.” (NT Wright)
Eager Expectation - it is a word found only in Christian literature. Paul used it twice in the New Testament (Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20). In fact, most scholars think it was a word coined by the early Christians to describe their unique way of living. Literally the word means "to stretch your head away from your body."
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Do you enjoy learning about your family's genealogy? Do you have any interesting information to share about your family tree? Share with your group.
2 Have you ever thought it strange that the New Testament begins with a genealogy? Does it help you better understand the purpose of the genealogy to think of it as "the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets, and a town crier calling for attention"?
3 Read Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20. The word Paul used in these two verses is translated as "eager expectation." It is a word to describe the unique way that early Christians lived. Can you think of a time when you have lived "eagerly expecting" something or someone? Describe how it affected the way you lived.
4 Would you say as Christians that we live in "eager expectation" of the return of Jesus Christ? Discuss with your group.
5 The season of Advent teaches us to learn from our ancestors to once again be a people who long for the coming of our King. How might we live differently if we lived eagerly expecting the coming of our King?
1 Do you enjoy learning about your family's genealogy? Do you have any interesting information to share about your family tree? Share with your group.
2 Have you ever thought it strange that the New Testament begins with a genealogy? Does it help you better understand the purpose of the genealogy to think of it as "the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets, and a town crier calling for attention"?
3 Read Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20. The word Paul used in these two verses is translated as "eager expectation." It is a word to describe the unique way that early Christians lived. Can you think of a time when you have lived "eagerly expecting" something or someone? Describe how it affected the way you lived.
4 Would you say as Christians that we live in "eager expectation" of the return of Jesus Christ? Discuss with your group.
5 The season of Advent teaches us to learn from our ancestors to once again be a people who long for the coming of our King. How might we live differently if we lived eagerly expecting the coming of our King?
Sunday Nov 24, 2024
Sunday Nov 24, 2024
Psalm 24
1 The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; 2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. 3 Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. 5 He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. 6 Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face , O God of Jacob. 7 Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 10 Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty - he is the King of glory.
1 The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; 2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. 3 Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. 5 He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. 6 Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face , O God of Jacob. 7 Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 10 Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty - he is the King of glory.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 How would you describe or define worship? When have you seen misguided worship?
When have you experienced misguided worship in your own life – maybe an idea or a
person or wealth or some possession?
2 “All things were created by him and for him” – Colossians 1:16-17
Talk about that line for a moment. What does this mean?
What does this line promote or inspire?
3 Read Psalm 145:3-5.
Talk about your role in the lives or younger believers as described in this psalm. How
can you honor this principle of passing your experiences with God to the next
generation? Be practical in your response.
4 In the saga of the ark’s journey, what stands out to you? What do you learn?
The Israelites were pretty torn up about losing the ark. What are the parallels related to
this event in your life? What impacts you in this saga surrounding the ark?
5 David has a passion for people to know God is among his people. To what lengths are you willing to move to honor this same goal or passion of David’s for the person sitting next to you at Southside (assuming this person next to you is not your clone).
6 When have you struggled with the question, “Who is this God? Who can stand in his presence?” What was your answer to that question? When someone observes your life, what would prompt this question, “Who is this God?”
7 When has a worship experience inspired change in your life? When has your life or worship left you standing alone or swimming upstream? What do you do with moments like that? What would it take for you to experience more moments of authentic worship?
1 How would you describe or define worship? When have you seen misguided worship?
When have you experienced misguided worship in your own life – maybe an idea or a
person or wealth or some possession?
2 “All things were created by him and for him” – Colossians 1:16-17
Talk about that line for a moment. What does this mean?
What does this line promote or inspire?
3 Read Psalm 145:3-5.
Talk about your role in the lives or younger believers as described in this psalm. How
can you honor this principle of passing your experiences with God to the next
generation? Be practical in your response.
4 In the saga of the ark’s journey, what stands out to you? What do you learn?
The Israelites were pretty torn up about losing the ark. What are the parallels related to
this event in your life? What impacts you in this saga surrounding the ark?
5 David has a passion for people to know God is among his people. To what lengths are you willing to move to honor this same goal or passion of David’s for the person sitting next to you at Southside (assuming this person next to you is not your clone).
6 When have you struggled with the question, “Who is this God? Who can stand in his presence?” What was your answer to that question? When someone observes your life, what would prompt this question, “Who is this God?”
7 When has a worship experience inspired change in your life? When has your life or worship left you standing alone or swimming upstream? What do you do with moments like that? What would it take for you to experience more moments of authentic worship?
Sunday Nov 17, 2024
Sunday Nov 17, 2024
ACTS 28:23-31
23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law and from the Prophets. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: 26 " 'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in hi sown rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law and from the Prophets. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: 26 " 'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in hi sown rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
FROM THE LESSON
Paul's Journey to Rome:
The Storm - Acts 27:20 - "When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved."
The Shipwreck - Acts 27:41 - "But the ship struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf."
The Snake Bite - Acts 28:3 - "Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand."
Acts 28:31 (literal translation):
"proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness unhinderedly."
Conclusion to the book of Acts:
1 The book of Acts encourages us to have an unhindered faith.
2 The book of Acts reminds us that we have an unhindered gospel.
3 The book of Acts calls us to be an unhindered church.
Paul's Journey to Rome:
The Storm - Acts 27:20 - "When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved."
The Shipwreck - Acts 27:41 - "But the ship struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf."
The Snake Bite - Acts 28:3 - "Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand."
Acts 28:31 (literal translation):
"proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness unhinderedly."
Conclusion to the book of Acts:
1 The book of Acts encourages us to have an unhindered faith.
2 The book of Acts reminds us that we have an unhindered gospel.
3 The book of Acts calls us to be an unhindered church.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Have you ever had a difficult experience on a boat? Describe the situation to your group. Which part of Paul's journey to Rome would have been the most difficult for you: the storm, the shipwreck, or the snake bite? Why?
2 Paul's circumstances hindered his abilities, but they did not hinder his faith. I used this point to encourage my parents this week, how does it encourage you in your faith journey? Can you think of an example in your life?
3 In 2 Timothy 2:7, Paul wrote, "And because I preach this good news, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained." He wrote these words right before he was executed. Discuss this important reminder with your group.
4 One author writes, "The abrupt ending leaves us with the challenge and the opportunity to allow the Holy Spirit to write the next chapter in the book of Acts today in and through us." How might we live unhinderedly as followers of Jesus today?
1 Have you ever had a difficult experience on a boat? Describe the situation to your group. Which part of Paul's journey to Rome would have been the most difficult for you: the storm, the shipwreck, or the snake bite? Why?
2 Paul's circumstances hindered his abilities, but they did not hinder his faith. I used this point to encourage my parents this week, how does it encourage you in your faith journey? Can you think of an example in your life?
3 In 2 Timothy 2:7, Paul wrote, "And because I preach this good news, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained." He wrote these words right before he was executed. Discuss this important reminder with your group.
4 One author writes, "The abrupt ending leaves us with the challenge and the opportunity to allow the Holy Spirit to write the next chapter in the book of Acts today in and through us." How might we live unhinderedly as followers of Jesus today?