Viewing entries by
Rebecca Yurkanin

Comment

Bible Study June 25

Weekly Wednesdays: CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, June 25, 2025 

Meeting# 8 of 8 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno 

Introduction: Welcome everyone, this is the eighth and last meeting of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group.  Please monitor https://fv.church/events for information about next semester

Everyone is welcome; everyone has value; everyone has a voice.  We need to remember that we all come from various backgrounds, we have different life experiences, have different points of view and are all in different places in our faith journey.  

The purpose of our meeting tonight is to read and study God’s word; have a friendly discussion and if there are different points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another; it’s our differences that add to the meeting and discussion.  We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ; we should leave the same (as friends and brothers in Christ).  Often there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture – and ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER.  

Tonight, we finish out our SOAP(Q) study (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer and Questions) of Second Thessalonians.  (Phase 1 = First Thessalonians.  Phase 2 = Second Thessalonians)

History of Thessalonica, and First and Second Thessalonians:  

Thessalonica was the capital and largest city of the Roman province of Macedonia.  

The most important Roman highway extending from Rome to the Orient went through Thessalonica.  This highway along with the city’s thriving seaport made Thessalonica one of the wealthiest and most flourishing trade centers of the Roman Empire.  

Recognized as a free-city, Thessalonica was allowed self-rule and was exempt from most of the restrictions placed by Rome on other cities.  And because of this open climate the city had many pagan religions and cultural influences that challenged the Christians’ faith.  

Paul had been persecuted during his first visit to Thessalonica (see Acts 17: 5-9).  Many of the Thessalonians had become Christians after Paul’s first visit and were persecuted by both Jews, Gentiles and Pagans.  Paul wrote his first letter to encourage the Church and had said that Christ’s return would bring deliverance from persecution for the believers.  But this caused the people to expect Christ’s return right away to bring justice and revenge upon their persecutors.  Many become idle; quitting their jobs, turning away from work.  Paul wrote the second letter to continue to encourage the believers and correct them.  While waiting on Christ’s return believers should grow in their faithfulness through the hardships they were suffering. 

Effective communication can often be difficult.  Frequently the message sent is not the message received.  How we write; how we speak; the words and tones we use, can influence how our message is received and understood.  Even when our message is clearly written and communicated the message can be misinterpreted and misunderstood.  

Paul faced this problem with the Thessalonians.  Paul had written the Thessalonian Church earlier to help them grown in their faith and provide them with comfort to endure through persecution and encourage them about Christ’s return.

After a few months Paul learned that some had misunderstood Paul’s teaching about the second coming of Christ.  Paul’s message that Christ could return at any moment had caused some believers in Thessalonica to stop working with the understanding of Christ’s immediate return.  With the added persecution many thought that the “day of the Lord” was near.  

Responding quickly, Paul sent a second letter to the Thessalonian Church.  In the letter Paul gave further instruction concerning the Second Coming of Christ.  Second Thessalonians continues the subject of First Thessalonians and the letter’s encouragement for continued courage through the persecution and consistent Christian living. 

Almost 2,000 years later we are much closer to the time of Christ’s return; but we too would also be wrong if we saw Christ’s return as an excuse to be lazy and idle.  Our responsibility is to be prepared for Christ’s return and to also be spreading the gospel.  We are to be reaching out to those in need and building the church.  As we read Second Thessalonians, we should see the reality of Christ’s return and our responsibility to live for Him.  

The Bible reminds us, time and time again, the key to surviving persecution, hardships and difficult times is faithfulness and endurance.  We are not to waiver or stray from our faith.  We are to remain focused on Christ; keeping Christ as our center –As we live for Christ, we will experience troubles because we are trying to be God’s people making our way to reach others in a fallen world.  Many people believe that troubles are only the result of sinful behavior.  Suffering is not always a result of sin or correction from God. Troubles can be used as a means to help us grow or an attack from the enemy to discourage believers from pursuing and remaining in the faith.  Paul and the disciples delighted in their suffering.  When we experience times of trouble or setbacks, we should use those challenges to lean into our faith in Jesus and rely on Him for guidance and understanding.  

This Week’s Prayer:    Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight.  Father, we look to you for Truth, help us not to become idle and lazy anticipating Jesus’ return.  May you guide us to understand your message.  Continue to give us strength and encouragement to live a disciplined life so that we may always please you.  - In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Previously we learned in First Thessalonians that Paul encouraged the Thessalonian Church’s faithful work, despite the intense persecution they were receiving. Paul longed to return to the Church but couldn’t – so he sent Timmothy to encourage them to continue in their faith and encourage the believers to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord avoid evil and be spiritually on guard and prepared for Jesus to return at any moment.  In Second Thessalonians we learned that Paul was troubled by his learning that many believers had become idle and lazy quitting work believing that Christ’s return was immediate.

Tonight, we will learn more about Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian Church.    


Scripture, Read: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 3:1 – 1

Learn More, research Paul’s Missionary Journeys:

https://www.bing.com/search?pglt=297&q=Paul%27s+missionary+journeys&cvid=4f93dd62497d43cbab032e8e66428019&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQABhAMgYIAhAAGEAyBggDEAAYQDIGCAQQABhAMgYIBRAAGEAyBggGEAAYQDIGCAcQABhA0gEINzQ5NWowajGoAgiwAgE&FORM=ANNTA1&PC=SCOOBE&dayref=1 

Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

Key verses for discussion:

(Chapter 3, verse 1-3) - 

Beneath the surface of the routine of daily life, a fierce struggle among spiritual powers is being waged.  Our main defense is prayer for God to strengthen and protect us from evil, and the evil one.

Read: 

Matthew 4: 1-11; discuss.

When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, he wanted Jesus to show his power by turning stones into bread, to do miracles by jumping from a high place, and to gain political power by worshiping him.  

Ephesians 6: 11-18; discuss.

What are things we can do to prepare for satanic attack?

The following guidelines can help us prepare for and survive satanic attack:

  1. Take the possibility of satanic attack seriously.

  2. Pray and pray often for strength and help from God.

  3. Study the Bible to recognize Satan’s style of attack.

  4. Memorize Scripture so it will be a source of help no matter where you are.

  5. Associate with likeminded people and those who support you walking in truth.

  6. Practice what you are taught by our spiritual leaders.


(Chapter 3, verse 6-15)  

Paul explained that when he and his companions were in Thessalonica, they worked hard buying what they needed to rather than becoming a burden to any of the believers.  The rule they followed was “Those unwilling to work will not get to eat.” – it is important to distinguish that there is a difference between leisure and laziness.  Relaxation and recreation provide necessary rest and balance to our lives; when its time to work, Christians should jump right in.  We should make the most of our talents and time; we should rest when we should be meant to be resting, and work when we are meant to be working.  

Some people in the Thessalonian church were falsely teaching that Christ would return right away and should ignore their responsibilities, quit work, do no future planning and focus on Christ’s return.  But their lack of activity only led them to sin and caused them to become a burden upon the church who had to support them.  

These church members thought they were being more spiritual by not working, but Paul tells them to be responsible and get back to work.  Being ready for Christ means obeying him in every area of life.  Because we know that Christ is coming, we need to live in a way that our faith and daily practice will be pleasing to the Lord when he arrives.

Read: 

Acts 18: 1-5; discuss.

Matthew 10: 5-15; discuss.

1 Timmothy 5: 13-25; discuss.

An idle person who doesn’t work ends up filling his or her time with less than helpful activities, like gossip, rumors, hearsay and speculation.  But these activities tear people down and are not good for our soul.  

Paul counseled the church to stop supporting financially and associating with those who persisted in idleness. Hunger and loneliness can be effective ways the Lord can use to make an idle person become productive.  Paul was not advising coldness or cruelty, but tough love to help motivate idle believers to become productive members of the church.  

(Chapter 3, verse 16-18)  

Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian church is especially meaningful to those who are being spiritually persecuted or attacked because of their faith.  In the first part of Paul’s letter, we are told what suffering can do for us, then Paul assures us of Jesus’ final victory over evil and encourages us to continue living responsibility in spite of difficult circumstances.  

Christ’s return is more than just Biblical doctrine, it is a promise from God and has a vital impact on how we live now.  – discuss.  

Read: 

Galatians 6: 1-10; discuss.

Colossians 4: 2-6; discuss.

Other questions to explore:

  • What was the context?  What was going on at the time this was written? 

  • What and where is this happening? 

    • What makes what was happening meaningful?

    • Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?

  • Who is involved?  

    • How do they respond to God? 

    • What character traits do you notice about them?

    • What is the significance of their involvement?

  • What do you think is the key message?

  • Did anything surprise you? What was it?

  • Are there any key verses that stand out to you?  Discuss among the group.  

  • Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you?  What were they?

  • Is there anything that stood out to you?  Share with the group and discuss.

  • Is there anything that left you with more questions?  What were they?  Share with group, discuss, and research. 

  • Biggest takeaway?


Tonight is the last Men’s group for this Spring 2025 Semester.  
Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.  


References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:

  1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation
        https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/ 

  2. ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008.  The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois. 

  3. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011.  The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-true-images-revolution/ 

  4. NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation

  5. HCSB/CSB The Apologetics Study Bible, copyright 2007.  The Holy Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB/CSB); copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holmon Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.

  6. NKJV The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (NKJV); copyright 2013 David Jeremiah, Inc.
    Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles 

  7. Life Application Bible Studies: 1 & 2 Thessalonians / Philemon; copyright 1999, 2010 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. 

Schedule: Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)

May 2025:

_x_ 001, 05/07 1 Thessalonians Introduction & 1:1 – 10. (10 Verses)

_x_ 002, 05/14 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20. (20 Verses) + Location Study

_x_ 003, 05/21 1 Thessalonians 3:1 – 13. (13 Verses) + Bible Facts (p. 1296 Student Apologists HCSB)

_x_ 004, 05/28 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Twisted Scripture Study 

(Apologists HCSB/student HCSB)

June 2025:

_x_ 005, 06/04 1 Thessalonians 5:1 – 28. (28 Verses)

_x_ 006, 06/11 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12. (12 Verses) + Cross References

_x_ 007, 06/18 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17. (17 Verses) + Cross References

_x_ 008, 06/25 2 Thessalonians 3:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Cross References *  

*Last meeting, please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.

Comment

Comment

Bible Study June 18

Weekly Wednesdays: CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Meeting# 7 of 8 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

Introduction: Welcome everyone, this is our seventh meeting of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Next week is our last meeting; so only one more after tonight. (Our last meeting is Wednesday, June 25 (06/25/2025); 7:00 – 8:30 pm). All are welcome to join. Everyone is welcome; everyone has value; everyone has a voice. We need to remember that we all come from various backgrounds, different life experiences and have different points of view and are all in different places in our faith journey.

The purpose of our meeting tonight is to come together, read and study God’s word and have a friendly discussion. If there are differing points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another; it’s our differences that add to the meeting and discussion. We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ; and we should leave the same (as friends and brothers in Christ). Often times there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture – and ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER.

Tonight, we continue our SOAP(Q) study (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer and Questions) of Second Thessalonians. (Phase 1 = First Thessalonians. Phase 2 = Second Thessalonians)

History of Thessalonica, and First and Second Thessalonians:

Thessalonica was the capital and largest city of the Roman province of Macedonia.

The most important Roman highway extending from Rome to the Orient went through Thessalonica. This highway along with the city’s thriving seaport made Thessalonica one of the wealthiest and most flourishing trade centers of the Roman Empire.

Recognized as a free-city, Thessalonica was allowed self-rule and was exempt from most of the restrictions placed by Rome on other cities. And because of this open climate the city had many pagan religions and cultural influences that challenged the Christians’ faith.

Paul had been persecuted during his first visit to Thessalonica (see Acts 17: 5-9). Many of the Thessalonians had become Christians after Paul’s first visit and were persecuted by both Jews, Gentiles and Pagans. Paul wrote his first letter to encourage the Church and had said that Christ’s return would bring deliverance from persecution for the believers. But this caused the people to expect Christ’s return right away to bring justice and revenge upon their persecutors. Many become idle; quitting their jobs, turning away from work. Paul wrote the second letter to continue to encourage the believers and correct them. While waiting on Christ’s return believers should grow in their faithfulness through the hardships they were suffering.

Effective communication can often be difficult. Frequently the message sent is not the message received. How we write; how we speak; the words and tones we use, can influence how our message is received and understood. Even when our message is clearly written and communicated the message can be misinterpreted and misunderstood.

Paul faced this problem with the Thessalonians. Paul had written the Thessalonian Church earlier to help them grown in their faith and provide them with comfort to endure through persecution and encourage them about Christ’s return.

After a few months Paul learned that some had misunderstood Paul’s teaching about the second coming of Christ. Paul’s message that Christ could return at any moment had caused some believers in Thessalonica to stop working with the understanding of Christ’s immediate return. With the added persecution many thought that the “day of the Lord” was near.

Responding quickly, Paul sent a second letter to the Thessalonian Church. In the letter Paul gave further instruction concerning the Second Coming of Christ. Second Thessalonians continues the subject of First Thessalonians and the letter’s encouragement for continued courage through the persecution and consistent Christian living.

Almost 2,000 years later we are much closer to the time of Christ’s return; but we too would also be wrong if we saw Christ’s return as an excuse to be lazy and idle. Our responsibility is to be prepared for Christ’s return and to also be spreading the gospel. We are to be reaching out to those in need and building the church. As we read Second Thessalonians, we should see the reality of Christ’s return and our responsibility to live for Him.

The Bible reminds us, time and time again, the key to surviving persecution, hardships and difficult times is faithfulness and endurance. We are not to waiver or stray from our faith. We are to remain focused on Christ; keeping Christ as our center –As we live for Christ, we will experience troubles because we are trying to be God’s people making our way to reach others in a fallen world. Many people believe that troubles are only the result of sinful behavior. Suffering is not always a result of sin or correction from God. Troubles can be used as a means to help us grow or an attack from the enemy to discourage believers from pursuing and remaining in the faith. Paul and the disciples delighted in their suffering. When we experience times of trouble or setbacks, we should use those challenges to lean into our faith in Jesus and rely on Him for guidance and understanding.

This Week’s Prayer: Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Father, we know your return is coming, although we do not know the day or the hour; we do know that you are with us always. You will never leave us or forsake us. You give us encouragement in times of stress and trouble. Give us the strength and wisdom to remain faithful to you. - In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Previously we learned in First Thessalonians that Paul encouraged the Thessalonian Church’s faithful work, despite the intense persecution they were receiving. Paul longed to return to the Church but couldn’t – so he sent Timmothy to encourage them to continue in their faith and encourage the believers to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord avoid evil and be spiritually on guard and prepared for Jesus to return at any moment. In Second Thessalonians we learned that Paul was troubled by his learning that many believers had become idle and lazy quitting work believing that Christ’s return was immediate.

Tonight, we will learn more about Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian Church.

Scripture, Read: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 2:1 – 17

Learn More, research Paul’s Missionary Journeys:

Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

Key verses for discussion:

(Chapter 2, verse 1-4) -

Paul describes the end of the world and Christ’s second coming. He says that great suffering and trouble lie ahead but evil does not prevail. Christ will return to judge all people.

Although Paul presents a few signs of the end times, he emphasis the need for all to prepare for Christ’s return by living rightly every day. If we are ready, we won’t have to be concerned about the events to come or the timing of Christ’s return.

Read:

Mark 13: 21-37; discuss.

In the Bible, “the day of the Lord” is used in several ways: it can indicate the end times, or it can mean the final judgement day to take place in the future. There were some false teachers who were saying that judgement day had come, and many believers were waiting for judgement on those who were persecuting them and relief from suffering.

Throughout history there have been individuals and groups who were hostile to everything Christ stands for. Many antichrists have lived in every generation and worked for evil. However, as Christians it is not healthy for us to be more interested in how many there have been or who or what the antichrist could be (a person, spirt, electricity, the internet, AI etc.) we need to be focused on Christ. If our faith is strong and rooted in Christ, we don’t need to be concerned about what lies ahead, because we know that this lawless man; this antichrist has already been defeated by God. No matter how powerful he becomes, or how terrible the world becomes, God is in control. - Spoiler alert, in the end, Jesus wins.

Read:

1 John 2:18-27; discuss.

2 John 1: 5-11; discuss.

When Paul first wrote to the Thessalonians, they were in danger of losing hope in the second coming of Christ, believing that it would never happen. But then they shifted to the opposite extreme – some thought that Christ’s return was immediate and be coming at any minute, so they stopped being productive in everything; their work, their personal relationships, spreading the Good News. Paul tried to restore the balance by describing certain events that would happen before Christ’s return.

(Chapter 2, verse 5-9)

What do we think holds back the lawless one? Any ideas? - Biblical scholars do not know for certain. Three main possibilities have been identified:

  1. God working through government and Law which help hold back evil.

  2. God working through the ministry and activity through churches; spreading the Good News.

  3. The Holy Spirt holding back the lawless one; the antichrist until the appointed time.

The Bible is not clear on who the restrainer is, we only know that whatever or whoever is restraining the man of lawlessness, he will not be restrained forever. But we should not fear this time when restraint is removed – God is far stronger, and God will protect and save His people.

It is believed that “This lawlessness is already at work secretly” means that the work that this Antichrist will do has been going on throughout time, even now during our current day. “Secretly” means that the evil work is something no one can discover, but something that will be revealed. “Lawlessness” is hidden, subtle, and an underlying force from which sin comes from.

In our modern times we are not used to the horror and brutality of the ancient and medieval world. None of us need to be afraid of being stretched on the rack, locked in stocks, chained to a wall, or brutally beaten and whipped as punishment for minor crimes. We still have morals, decency, law enforcement, education, science and reason. Although we are horrified by criminal acts, we have yet to see the real horror of complete lawlessness. – which will happen when the one holding it back steps out of the way. Lawlessness to a certain extent, is already gong on, but the man of lawlessness has not yet been revealed.

This evil man will use “counterfeit power and signs and miracles” to deceive and draw a following. The man of lawlessness will have power to do amazing things, but his power will be from Satan and will use this power to destroy and lead people away from God and toward himself. If any so-called religious person draws attention only to himself or herself, their work is not from God.

Read:

Revelation 13: 1-18; discuss.

In Chapter 13 introduces Satan (the dragon’s) two evil accomplices: (1) the beast out of the sea and (2) the beast out of the earth. Together, the three evil beings form an unholy trinity in direct opposition to the Holy Trinity of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirt.

  • When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, he wanted Jesus to show his power by turning stones into bread, to do miracles by jumping from a high place, and to gain political power by worshiping him. (Matthew 4:1-11)

  • Satan’s plan was to rule the world through Jesus, but Jesus refused to do Satan’s bidding. Thus, Satan turns to the fearsome beasts described in Revelation. To the beast out of the sea he gives political power. To the beast out of the earth he gives power to do miracles. Both beasts work together to capture control of the whole world.

  • This unholy trinity – the dragon, the beast out of the sea, and the beast out of the earth, the false prophet, unite in a desperate attempt to overthrow God. But their efforts are doomed to failure. What do we think? - Discuss

  • Throughout the Bible we see miracles performed as proof of God’s power, love and authority. But in Chapter 13 (13:14) we see counterfeit miracles performed to deceive. True signs and miracles point us to Jesus Christ, but miracles alone can be deceptive.

  • The second beast orders the people to worship a statue in honor of the first beast – which is in direct conflict of God’s commandments not to worship false gods and idols, or to bow down and worship them (Exodus 20:4-6). – Discuss

  • The Mark of the Beast – (13:16-18), many people throughout time have been trying to figure out what the mark of the beast is - credit cards with microchips, digital currency (Bitcoin, Worldcoin, Ethereum etc.), There are many, many theories to what the mark of the beast actually is.

    • As a group, do a quick internet search of theories of what the mark of the beast could be.

- Share what is found and discuss.

  • …”the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is 666.” – and some manuscripts identify the number as “616.” Again, like what the mark of the beast, many have theorized about what this number represents – it is the most discussed part of Revelation and has been said to represent many things. The number six falls short of God’s perfect number seven and represents imperfection and the Antichrist. - Research what the number could represent and discuss.

  • In the Roman Empire, it was normal to place an identifying symbol or brand to mark slaves and soldiers. Some of the ancient mystical cults delighted in such marks and tattoos. The mark identifies members of who worship and belong the Antichrist.

  • The mark of the beast is designed to mock the seal that God placed on his followers in Chapter 7 (7:2, 3). Just as God marks His people to save them, Satan and his beast marks his people to identify them.

  • Identifying the mark or speculating on what it could be is not as important as identifying the purpose of the mark. Those who accept the mark show their allegiance to Satan, and that they reject God. To refuse the mark is to commit oneself entirely to God. – Discuss, what do we think? Explain why.

(Chapter 2, verse 10-17)

The Bible reveals to us that God hates all evil and will one day do away with it completely and forever.

We don’t need to understand every detail of how God works in order to have confidence that God has absolute power over evil.

Paul knew that the Thessalonians would face pressure from persecutions, false teachers, worldliness and temptation to stray and leave the faith. Paul urged them to stand firm and hold on to the truth. We too may also face persecution, false teaching, worldliness and temptation to stray and leave the faith. Paul’s letters should encourage us to hold onto the truth of Christ’s teachings because our life depends on it. We should never forget Christ’s love and sacrifice for us.

Read:

Revelation 20:10-15; discuss.

  • In Chapter 20, the dragon is bound for 1,000 years.

  • Satan is also cast into the Lake of Fire joining the beast and the false prophet and be tormented forever and ever. – This means:

    • Satan’s power is not eternal – he will meet his end. He began his evil work in people at the beginning (Genisis 3) and his evil continues today, but ultimately, he will be destroyed when he is thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur; the Lake of Fire.

    • After Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire, the Final Judgement begins and the books; including the Book of Life will be opened and all will be judged. - If we stand with and remain faithful to God, we will experience the victory with Christ.

Other questions to explore:

  • What was the context? What was going on at the time this was written?

  • What and where is this happening?

    • What makes what was happening meaningful?

    • Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?

  • Who is involved?

    • How do they respond to God?

    • What character traits do you notice about them?

    • What is the significance of their involvement?

  • What do you think is the key message?

  • Did anything surprise you? What was it?

  • Are there any key verses that stand out to you? Discuss among the group.

  • Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you? What were they?

---

  • Is there anything that stood out to you? Share with the group and discuss.

  • Is there anything that left you with more questions? What were they? Share with group, discuss, and research.

  • Biggest takeaway?

Prepare for next week’s meeting.  Read: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17    

Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses?  Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

  • Think of things that you can do to encourage new believers over the next seven days.  

  • This Spring 2025 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, through 06/25/2025; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm.   Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.  

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:


  1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation
        https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/ 

  2. ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008.  The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois. 

  3. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011.  The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-true-images-revolution/ 

  4. NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation

  5. HCSB/CSB The Apologetics Study Bible, copyright 2007.  The Holy Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB/CSB); copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holmon Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.

  6. NKJV The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (NKJV); copyright 2013 David Jeremiah, Inc.
    Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles 

  7. Life Application Bible Studies: 1 & 2 Thessalonians / Philemon; copyright 1999, 2010 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. 

Schedule: Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)

May 2025:

_x_ 001, 05/07 1 Thessalonians Introduction & 1:1 – 10. (10 Verses)

_x_ 002, 05/14 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20. (20 Verses) + Location Study

_x_ 003, 05/21 1 Thessalonians 3:1 – 13. (13 Verses) + Bible Facts (p. 1296 Student Apologists HCSB)

_x_ 004, 05/28 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Twisted Scripture Study 

(Apologists HCSB/student HCSB)

June 2025:

_x_ 005, 06/04 1 Thessalonians 5:1 – 28. (28 Verses)

_x_ 006, 06/11 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12. (12 Verses) + Cross References

_x_ 007, 06/18 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17. (17 Verses) + Cross References

__ 008, 06/25 2 Thessalonians 3:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Cross References *  

*Last meeting, please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.

Comment

Comment

Bible Study June 11

Weekly Wednesdays: CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, June 11, 2025 

Meeting# 6 of 8 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno 

Introduction: Welcome everyone, this is our sixth meeting of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. We have two more meetings after tonight.  (We will meet weekly every Wednesday, through June 25th (06/25/2025); 7:00 – 8:30 pm).  

All are welcome to join; it doesn’t matter if you’ve been a believer for four seconds, or 40 years walking with the Lord.  We are all at different places in our faith journey.  Everyone is welcome; everyone has value; everyone has a voice.  We need to remember that we all come from various backgrounds, different life experiences and have different points of view.  

The purpose of our meeting tonight is to come together, read and study God’s word and have a friendly discussion.  If there are differing points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another; it’s our differences that add to the meeting and discussion.  We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ; and we should leave the same (as friends and brothers in Christ).  Often times there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture – and ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER.  

Tonight, we are in phase two of our SOAP(Q) study (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer and Questions) of First and Second Thessalonians.  (Phase 1 = First Thessalonians.  Phase 2 = Second Thessalonians)

History of Second Thessalonians:

Effective communication can often be difficult.  Frequently the message sent is not the message received.  How we write, the words we use, the tone we use when speaking and communicate, can influence how our message is received and understood.  Even when clearly written or communicated our message can be misinterpreted and misunderstood.  

Paul faced this problem with the Thessalonians.  Paul had written the Thessalonian Church earlier to help them grown in their faith and provide them with comfort to endure through persecution and encourage them about Christ’s return.

After a few months Paul learned that some had misunderstood Paul’s teaching about the second coming of Christ.  Paul’s message that Christ could return at any moment had caused some believers in Thessalonica to stop working with the understanding of Christ’s immediate return.  With the added persecution many thought that the “day of the Lord” was near.  

Responding quickly, Paul sent a second letter to the Thessalonian Church.  In the letter Paul gave further instruction concerning the Second Coming of Christ.  Second Thessalonians continues the subject of First Thessalonians and the letter’s encouragement for continued courage through the persecution and consistent Christian living. 

Almost 2,000 years later we are much closer to the time of Christ’s return; but we too would also be wrong if we saw Christ’s return as an excuse to be lazy and idle.  Our responsibility is to be prepared for Christ’s return and to also be spreading the gospel.  We are to be reaching out to those in need and building the church.  As we read Second Thessalonians, we should see the reality of Christ’s return and our responsibility to live for Him.  

Do we think our modern society today is much like the early Thessalonian society in Jesus’ time?  

In what ways are they similar; in what ways are they different?

  - Discuss among the group.  

This Week’s Prayer:    Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together.  Father, thank you for promising that Christ will return.  Help us when we study your word so we will know the truth about Christ’s return and not be deceived by false teachers.  Lord help us to remain faithful and rely on you for understanding. Lord you are our rock and solid foundation in which we build our lives upon.  - In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Previously we learned in First Thessalonians that Paul encouraged the Thessalonian Church’s faithful work, despite the intense persecution they were receiving. Paul longed to return to the Church but couldn’t – so he sent Timmothy to encourage them to continue in their faith and encourage the believers to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord avoid evil and be spiritually on guard and prepared for Jesus to return at any moment.  

Tonight, we will learn more about Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian Church.    

But before we begin reading Second Thessalonians; as you all are well aware, last week for some reason I kept saying First and Second Corinthians rather than First and Second Thessalonians.  I believe God was directing us to take a look at Corinthians.  Let’s read:  

1 Corinthians 15: 17-29 (The Resurrection of the Dead)

 - Discuss among the group.

2 Corinthians 5: 1-5 (New Bodies)

  - Discuss among the group.  

Now let’s begin reading Second Thessalonians:

Scripture, Read: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 1:1 – 12

Learn More, research Paul’s Missionary Journeys:

Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

Key verses for discussion:

(Chapter 1, verse 1-6) -

Paul wrote this second letter less than a year after his first letter to the Thessalonian Church. Paul learned that false teachings about Christ’s return was spreading among the church leading many to quit their jobs and become idle waiting on the end of the world and Christ’s immediate return. The purpose of Paul’s second letter is to correct the Church’s understanding of Christ’s return.

Read: 1 Timothy 4:1-18; discuss.

Thessalonica was the capital and largest city of the Roman province of Macedonia.  

The most important Roman highway extending from Rome to the Orient went through Thessalonica.  This highway along with the city’s thriving seaport made Thessalonica one of the wealthiest and most flourishing trade centers of the Roman Empire.  

Recognized as a free-city, Thessalonica was allowed self-rule and was exempt from most of the restrictions placed by Rome on other cities.  And because of this open climate the city had many pagan religions and cultural influences that challenged the Christians’ faith.  

Paul had been persecuted during his first visit to Thessalonica (which we read about at the beginning of the semester in Acts 17: 5-9).  Many of the Thessalonians had become Christians after Paul’s first visit and were persecuted by both Jews, Gentiles and Pagans.  Paul wrote his first letter to encourage the Church and had said that Christ’s return would bring deliverance from persecution for the believers.  But this caused the people to expect Christ’s return right away to bring justice and revenge upon their persecutors.  Many become idle; quitting their jobs, turning away from work.  Paul wrote this second letter to continue to encourage the believers and correct them.  While waiting on Christ’s return believers should grow in their faithfulness through the hardships they were suffering. 

  • What do believers need to remember most when they are persecuted for their faith?

  • What do we need to do in times of persecution or trouble?

  • What can we do to keep our focus centered on Christ in difficult times/times of persecution?  

The Bible reminds us, time and time again, the key to surviving persecution, hardships and difficult times is faithfulness and endurance.  We are not to waiver or stray from our faith.  We are to remain focused on Christ; keeping Christ as our center – everything else will fall into place in God’s time. And like Candace and Aaron like to say, do we have “even if He doesn’t faith?” – Discuss:

  • What can we do to trust in God’s timing?  

  • Do we have even if He doesn’t faith? If not, what can we do to get it?

As we live for Christ, we will experience troubles because we are trying to be God’s people making our way to reach others in a fallen world.  Many people believe that troubles are only the result of sinful behavior.  Suffering is not always a result of sin or correction from God. Troubles can be used as a means to help us grow or an attack from the enemy to dissuade and discourage believers from pursuing and remaining in the faith.  

Paul and the disciples delighted in their suffering.  When we experience times of trouble or setbacks, we should use those challenges to lean into our faith in Jesus and rely on Him for guidance and understanding.  

Read: 

Mark 13: 5-11; discuss among the group.

Philippians 3: 13-21; discuss among the group. 

(Chapter 1, verse 7-12)  

The “rest” mentioned by Paul means that the believers can rest in knowing that God sees our suffering and strengthens us; preparing us for Christ’s kingdom.  Believers can also rest in knowing that we will all, both good and evil people will stand in front of God.  Our relationship with Jesus will be revealed and evil will be cast into the lake of fire.  

Read: 

Matthew 7: 21-28; discuss.

The eternal destruction that Paul describes is the lake of fire – the place of eternal separation from God.  

As Christians our instructions from God the Father is to become like Christ.  Which is a gradual life-long process.  None of us will every be worthy, we are all sinners and fall short of the Glory of God, but despite our sinful nature, we should consciously be working on ourselves and moving towards Jesus.  

Read: 

Luke 23: 35 – 43; (The Crucifixion) discuss among the group.  

Romans 8: 1-11; discuss among the group.

Revelation 20: 11 – 21:4; 

https://www.studylight.org/commentary/revelation/20-13.html

https://godsbless.ing/commentary/revelation/revelation_20_13/ 

discuss among the group.  

Other questions to explore:

  • What was the context?  What was going on at the time this was written? 

  • What and where is this happening? 

    • What makes what was happening meaningful?

    • Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?

  • Who is involved?  

    • How do they respond to God? 

    • What character traits do you notice about them?

    • What is the significance of their involvement?

  • What do you think is the key message?

  • Did anything surprise you? What was it?

  • Are there any key verses that stand out to you?  Discuss among the group.  

  • Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you?  What were they?

  • Is there anything that stood out to you?  Share with the group and discuss.

  • Is there anything that left you with more questions?  What were they?  Share with group, discuss, and research. 

  • Biggest takeaway?


Assignment:

  • Prepare for next week’s meeting.  Read: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17

    Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses?  Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

    • Think of things that you can do to encourage new believers over the next seven days.  

    • This Spring 2025 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, through 06/25/2025; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm.   Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.  

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:

  1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation
        https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/ 

  1. ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008.  The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois. 

  1. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011.  The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-true-images-revolution/ 

  1. NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation

  1. HCSB/CSB The Apologetics Study Bible, copyright 2007.  The Holy Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB/CSB); copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holmon Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.

  1. NKJV The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (NKJV); copyright 2013 David Jeremiah, Inc.
    Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles 

  1. Life Application Bible Studies: 1 & 2 Thessalonians / Philemon; copyright 1999, 2010 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. 

Schedule: Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)

May 2025:

_x_ 001, 05/07 1 Thessalonians Introduction & 1:1 – 10. (10 Verses)

_x_ 002, 05/14 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20. (20 Verses) + Location Study

_x_ 003, 05/21 1 Thessalonians 3:1 – 13. (13 Verses) + Bible Facts (p. 1296 Student Apologists HCSB)

_x_ 004, 05/28 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Twisted Scripture Study 

(Apologists HCSB/student HCSB)

June 2025:

_x_ 005, 06/04 1 Thessalonians 5:1 – 28. (28 Verses)

_x_ 006, 06/11 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12. (12 Verses) + Cross References

__ 007, 06/18 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17. (17 Verses) + Cross References

__ 008, 06/25 2 Thessalonians 3:1 – 18. (18 Verses) + Cross References *  


*Last meeting, please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.

Comment

Comment

Bible Study March 19

Meeting #9 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

Introduction: Welcome everyone, this is the ninth meeting of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group, winter 2025 semester. Next week is our last meeting. (meeting every Wednesdays through March; 03/26/25); 7:00 – 8:30 pm. As we’ve said previously, everyone is welcome to attend; it doesn’t matter where you are in your faith journey, if you are a new-believer or have had a lifetime of walking with the Lord. – it doesn’t matter, 10 seconds or 10 years’ into your walk with Jesus; everyone is welcome.

Friendly reminder that we all come from various backgrounds, we have different points of view and are at different places in our individual faith journey; the purpose of meeting tonight is to come together, read the Bible, study God’s word and have a friendly discussion. If there are differing points of view, we should not feel attacked or become hostile. We came together as friends and brothers in Christ; we should leave the same (as friends and brothers in Christ). Often there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture – ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER.

We are continuing a SOAP(-Q) study (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer and Questions) of the book of Zechariah, who stressed the importance of maintaining a presence with the Lord and to remain in obedience to Him. Zechariah was concerned that exiles returning to Jerusalem, would repeat previous mistakes of their forefathers. Zechariah’s message is helpful to us today to direct our thoughts to the Lord’s plan for blessing and cleansing.

The book of Zechariah focuses on concerns of the temple, priesthood, and purification of the people. Chapters 1-8 deal with the rebuilding of the temple, the priesthood, and the future of Jerusalem. And chapters 9-14 deal mostly with the distant future and the coming Messianic kingdom.

Last week we read about Judgement against Israel’s Enemies and the Lord’s restoration of Judah and Israel. Tonight, we will read about good and evil shepherds and the coming deliverance for Jerusalem.

This Week’s Prayer: Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight and study your word. Lord, you give us wisdom, guidance, protection and provision. Lord help us to rely on you for everything; the big, the small, everything seen and unseen. Let your blessings overflow on us and onward to others. – Amen

Scripture, Read: Zechariah Chapter 11:1 – 12:14. (31 Verses)

Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

Do you know anyone who refuses to believe in the Bible or what the Bible says about Jesus? Think about asking them to explain how prophets who lived hundreds of years before Jesus was born, were able to accurately predict very specific details of His life. Were not talking about one or two details; there are dozens of details that accurately predict Jesus. Have the group perform an internet search to find Old Testament predictions that accurately point to Jesus. – Then discuss among the group.

Key verses for discussion:

Zechariah 11:1-3,

This song against Lebanon and Bashan ends the previous chapter, which was a message of deliverance and restoration. – The song also introduces the next message about good and evil shepherds.

  • 11:1 – Lebanon, boasting snow-covered mountains and fruitful valleys, is believed to communicate and be a symbol of strength.

  • 11:2 – Like Lebanon, Bahan had superb stands of timber. Lebanon and Bashan are often paired together in representing nations that God would judge when He would regather and restore the people of Israel. (see Isaiah 2:13; Jeremiah 22:20-22; and Ezekiel 27:5-6).

  • 11:3 – Shepherds and lions; Biblical scholars believe that these represent the leaders of Lebanon and Bashan.

11:4-17

The Hebrew leaders as shepherds ties together the messages of chapter 9 through 11. This message combines Zechariah’s part to dramatize the wickedness of Israel’s shepherds. The parable of a “good shepherd” called by God to lead and unite his people; but the people reject him – this is symbolic the ministry of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and those who deny Him. (See John 10:1-21) – signifying how Israel will one day treat and reject Jesus.

  • 11:4 – The people of Israel are God’s flock (Isaiah 40:11; Micha 5:4). The helplessness of sheep places importance on careful shepherding and the intent for the sheep to be slaughtered, indicating that the people are being treated as disposable goods in a corrupt economy..

  • 11:5 – The sheep (aka Hebrew people) were being sold as slaves to buyers, who were foreign powers (see Amos 2:6). The sellers were the shepherds, leaders of the people who were more concerned with getting rich than with the well being of the sheep.

  • 11:7 – The shepherd’s staff are believed to symbolize leadership and authority. Favor is believed to symbolize God’s choice of Israel as his people (Genesis 12:1-3). And the promise of a leader like King David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Union Ezekiel’s staff (Ezekiel 37:16-17) represented the unity of the Hebrew tribes as a single nation during King David’s reign (2 Samuel 5:1-3)

  • 11:10 – cutting the staff signifies the broken covenant bond between God and his people and the broken bond between Judah and Israel.

  • 11:12 – 30 pieces of silver was the price of a slave (Exodus 21:32); the betrayal of Jesus was for thirty silver coins paid to Judas (Matthew 26:15; 27:9-10)

  • 11:13 – to the potter some Biblical scholars speculate that a guild of potters might have been minor Temple officials due to the continual need for sacred vessels (Leviticus 6:28). Thirty silver coins was a considerable sum of money, nearly two years’ wages for the average laborer.

  • 11:15 – the worthless shepherd represents corrupt leaders in contrast with the good shepherd (Ezekiel 34:7-16).

  • 11:16 – Tear off their hooves, is a Hebrew saying for a wanton and ravenous search for the last piece of edible meat on an animal carcass (Micha 3:3)

  • 11:17 – the useless arm and blind right eye, make the shepherd worthless and powerless.

12:1-14

  • 12:2 – intoxicating drink, is believed to be a symbol of God’s Judgment (Isaiah 51:17; Matthew 26:39; Revelation 14:10) Jerusalem would be instrumental in God’s judgment on the nearby nations.

  • 12:3 – Jerusalem will be an immovable rock that cuts and gashes those who attempt to conquer and control it, because the city was founded by the Lord.

  • 12:4 – Madness, blindness, and panic were among the curses threatened against Israel for covenant disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:28).

  • 12:5 – The Lord of Heaven’s Armies, this title emphasizes God’s irrepressible power. The frequent repetition of this title assures his audience that the diving promises concerning Judah’s victory would be fulfilled.

  • 12:6 - Flame, literally fire pan bronze or gold fire pans were used to carry hot coals to and from the sacrificial alters of the Tabernacle and the Temple (Exodus 27:3; 1 Kings 7:50). God would set Israel among the nations like a burning fire pan to destroy or purify them.

  • 12:8 – The angel of the Lord, is God represented as a Divine Warrior, rescuer and protector. The weak will be filled with God’s power.

  • 12:10 – pour out, This word describes the outpouring of God’s spirt of prophecy upon Israel and all people on the day of the Lord.

    • A spirt of God’s grace, God’s unmerited and unsought favor persuades God’s people to seek him.

    • Me whom they have pierced, the New Testament understands the pirecing of the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth (John 19:34-37; Revelation 1:7)

  • 12:11 – The name Hadad-rimmon, combines the names of two Syrian deities, the storm-god Hadad and the thunder-god Rimmon.

    • The great mourning for these gods may be similar to the weeping for Tammuz, one of the rituals practiced in Mesopotamian fertility cults.

    • Joshua captured Megiddo (Joshua 12:21), a major city on the southwest edge of the Jezreel Valley; it was allotted to the tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 17:11). Megiddo controlled a key pass on the great highway from Egypt to Mesopotamia, and so was of great strategic importance. It was a district capital during Solomon’s reign (1 Kings 4:12).

    • King Josiah was mortally wounded in a battle against Pharaoh Neco and the Egyptians on the plain of Megiddo and is the site of the great battle depicted in Revelation 16:16.

  • 12:12, 13 & 14 – The clan of David…Nathan…Levi, and …Shimei, Zechariah might be referring to the royal families (1 Chronicles 14:4); and the priestly families (Numbers 3:16-18; 1 Chronicles 6:16-17).

    • The four families may could represent the four principal classes of leadership in Old Testament times: the king, the prophet, the priest, and the tribal leader

      • King – David, 1 Samuel 16:1-13;

      • Prophet – Nathan, 2 Samuel 7:2;

      • Priest – Levi, Deuteronomy 33:8-11; and

      • The Tribal Leader – Shimei, 1 Kings 1:8 and 4:18).

Other questions to explore:

  • What was the context? What was going on at the time this was written?

    • What and where is this happening?

    • What makes what was happening meaningful?

    • Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?

  • Who is involved?

    • How do they respond to God?

    • What character traits do you notice about them?

    • What is the significance of their involvement?

  • What do you think is the key message?

  • Did anything surprise you? What was it?

  • Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you? What were they?

---

  • Is there anything that stood out to you? Share with the group and discuss.

  • Is there anything that left you with more questions? What were they? Share with group, discuss, and research.

  • Biggest takeaway?

Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Zechariah 13:1 – 14:21. (30 Verses)

Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

Watch the Three Circles video

REMINDER: FV Church has multiple events planned in the future to help you and your family stay involved with the church and connected. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:

1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/

2. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011. The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-true-images-revolution/

3. NKJV The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (NKJV); copyright 2013 David Jeremiah, Inc. Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles

4. Knowing the Bible, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, by Steven M. Coleman, J. L. Packer, Dane C. Ortlund; copyright 2018 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois.

5. The Good Book Guide to Zechariah, God’s big plan for struggling Christians, by Tim Chester, copyright 2005 by the Good Book Company. https://www.thegoodbook.com

Schedule: Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)

January 2025:

_x_ 001, 01/22 Haggai 1:1 – 2:23. (38 Verses)

_x_ 002, 01/29 Zechariah 1:1-21. (21 Verses)

February 2025:

_x_ 003, 02/05 Zechariah 2:1 – 3:10. (23 Verses)

_x_ 004, 02/12 -- Canceled due to weather --

_x_ 005, 02/19 Zechariah 4:1 – 5:11. (25 Verses)

_x_ 006, 02/26 Zechariah 6:1 – 7:14. (29 Verses)

March 2025:

_x_ 007, 03/05 Zechariah 8:1- 23. (23 Verses)

_x_ 008, 03/12 Zechariah 9:1 – 10:12. (29 Verses) – updated.

_x_ 009, 03/19 Zechariah 11:1 – 12:14. (31 Verses) – updated.

__ 010, 03/26 Zechariah 13:1 – 14:21. (30 Verses) * - updated.

*Please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.

Comment

Comment

Bible Study Feb 26

Weekly Wednesdays: CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, February 26, 2025 

Meeting #6 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno 

Introduction: Welcome everyone, this is the sixth meeting of the winter 2025 semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group (Wed 02/12/2025 was canceled due to snow and ice).  We will continue to meet weekly on Wednesdays through 03/26/2025; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm.  

Everyone is welcome to attend; it doesn’t matter if you are a new-believer, or solid in your faith; everyone is welcome.  And you do not have to have been at a previous meeting (or prior semester) to attend this week, or at any meeting in the future.  

Friendly reminder that we all come from various backgrounds, we have different points of view and are all at different places in our individual faith journey.  The purpose of our meeting tonight is to come together, study God’s word and have a friendly discussion.  If there are differing points of view, we should not feel attacked or become hostile to one another.  We came together as friends and brothers in Christ; we should leave the same (as friends and brothers in Christ).  Often there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture – ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER.  

Zechariah stressed the presence of the Lord with His people and also the necessity to obey the Lord, especially in matters of justice, mercy, compassion and truthfulness. Zechariah was concerned that the returned exiles did not repeat previous mistakes of their forefathers whose disobedience brought the Lord’s judgement.  Zechariah addresses the present and future condition of the people and Jerusalem.  Zecharia’s book is helpful to direct our thoughts to the Lord’s plan for blessing and cleansing.  

This book focuses on concerns of the temple, priesthood, and purification of the people.  Chapters 1-8 deal with the rebuilding of the temple, the priesthood, and the future of Jerusalem.  Chapters 9-14 deal mostly with the distant future and the coming Messianic kingdom.  

ANNOUNCEMENT:  UP COMING MEN’S CONFERENCE – MARCH 15, 2025 

For more Information visit:  https://www.mantourministries.com/centralpamantour 

Register: https://www.mantourministries.com/events/the-central-pa-mantour-8 

Price is $20 Early registration ($25 after cut-off), youth 18 and under can register for $5.00.  

The world is full of broken, defeated men.  It is time to get off the mat and get back in the fight.  It is not God’s will for men to live broken, defeated lives.  The 2025 Mantour conference is designed to help men get up and gain victory.  

The conference is at Celebration Church located in Dillsburg, PA, which is about 20 miles from FV Church.  The conference isn’t too far away, the cost is affordable, and is a one-day commitment Saturday, March 15, 9:00 am – 12:45 pm.  We’ll meet at FV Church at 8:00 am, and Carpool (or you can choose to meet) at the conference center Celebration Church, Dillsburg, PA: 1048 South Mountain Road, Dillsburg, PA 17019.  

Get to know and be comfortable with sharing the three circles.  

Three Circles video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcj5G_4dwrI 

This semester, the Called Men’s Group is conducting Bible study using the SOAP-Q (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer – and Questions) method, of the Book of Haggai, and Zechariah.  

Last week we read about the Zechariah having a vision of a flying scroll and basket of inequity (sin) – as a woman named Wickedness in the basket being held by two winged-women (wings like a stork), who will fly away and take the basket to Babylon.  The meaning of the figurative and vivid descriptions are unknown, but many believe this to be a warning and a call to believers to be true, honest and genuine in their obedience to God.  Half-hearted prayers are not what the Lord desires from us.  Just like promises with no intention of keeping them; the lack of commitment to the promises we make is the same as a lie.  If we’re going to do something, as Christians, we should do it well with our whole-heart and full commitment.  Our “no” should mean no, and our “yes” should mean yes.  

This Week’s Prayer:    Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight and study your word tonight.  Lord, we thank you for everything, all your gifts and blessings; big and small, seen and unseen.  Lord, we even thank you for when you tell us “No.”  You know better than we do, help us to follow you and remain faithful and obedient to you.  Lord; give us the strength and courage to honor and glorify you every day.  – Amen

Scripture, Read: Zechariah Chapter 6:1 – 7:14. (29 Verses)  

Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

Key verses for discussion:

Zechariah 6:1-8, What do we think the significance of the chariots and horses? – Discuss among the group.

  • In Zechariah’s vision God sends horses to patrol the earth.  The vision shows God’s sovereignty and concern for the nations.  

  • The four colors of the horses, red, black, white and dappled/gray horses.  Zechariah does not give us any significance of the colors of the horses.  

    • Do we think the horse colors have any special meaning?

  • Do we think there is any significance of the Chariots or bronze mountains? 

    • Scholars believe that the Chariots are the equivalent of today’s modern tanks.  – a key symbol of military power.  Also, the chariots symbolize the swift and decisive power of God’s intervention into human affairs.

    • The bronze mounts are believed to be enhanced images of the two bronze pillars that once flanked the entrance to Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 7:13-22) 

    • Bronze may symbolize the impregnable strength of God’s dwelling.  

  • Who are the four winds (ESV) / spirits (NLT)? 

    • The four winds/spirts are believed to be the divine council who report to God on their observations of the earth.   

    • Nowhere in the world is unreachable; the whole world is under God’s dominion.

    • Have vented the anger of my spirit, see Judges 8:3 and Isaiah 33:11

Zechariah 6:9-15, Joshua/Jeshua’s symbolic coronation as both king and priest was not an actual political arrangement; scholars believe that it most likely symbolizes the coming of the Messiah, the Branch.  

The composition of the crown, silver and gold reflects the expectation of Haggai 2:8, that both of these elements would come to the temple and fill it with Glory.  

Joshua/Jeshua is to be crowned is a symbol of the reality to come.  – The Branch.  

People will come to distant lands to rebuild the temple… Some Biblical scholars believe that this means that Jews still in exile will come to help.  Other scholars believe that this indicates that future Gentiles will come to help rebuild the temple.  

  • Discuss among the group.  

Have the group research what is meant by Land of the North (Babylon)

Have the group read 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; how does Paul say that we (God’s people) help build the temple?

Zechariah 7:1-14, 

  • (7:1) The fourth year of King Darius – the two sermons in Chapters 7 and 8 are two years after the visions of chapters 1-6.  Some translations mention “Chislev” or “Kislev” which overlaps with November/December, the ancient Hebrew lunar calendar.  Some scholars believe that this event occurred on December 7, 518.

  • (7:2) to seek the Lord’s favor, means to soften the face of the Lord; they were asking God to grant a petition or to rule on a question.  And their request was most likely along with a sacrifice or offering.  

    • Biblical scholars believe that weeping and abstaining from food and other luxuries were ritual acts of mourning aimed at demonstrating repentance.  

  • The sermons addressed delegates from Bethel (Named Sharezer and Regemmelech) who asked practical questions (7:2-3). Zechariah answers the questions later (8:18-19; which we’ll study next week).  

  • Zechariah responds first with rhetorical questions that focused on the people’s self-centered motives and behavior (7:5-6) 

  • (7:4-10) Zechariah points out what is wrong with Israel’s religious behavior.  What does true Godliness involve?

    • Mercy. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.

  • Zechariah then outlines God’s expectations for Israel (7:8-10)

    • Have group review Jerimiah 22:3-5

  • (7:10) Widows, orphans, foreigners and the poor often did not have access to the legal protection that the average citizen would have. (see Deuteronomy 24:14, 17-22)

  • (7:12) to make one’s heart as hard as stone, means that they intentionally cut themselves off from God.  Their will and desires were set against the will of God; the two do not always align.  Sometimes to be obedient we need to set aside our own thoughts and desires and listen to the word of the Lord.  

    • Agree/disagree?  (See Jerimiah 17:1-18)

  • (7:14) the scattering of the Hebrews among the nations was one of the curses for violating the Mosaic covenant (Deuteronomy 28:36-49)

    • Discuss among the group.

Other questions to explore:

  • What was the context?  What was going on at the time this was written? 

  • What and where is this happening? 

    • What makes what was happening meaningful?

    • Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?

  • Who is involved?  

    • How do they respond to God? 

    • What character traits do you notice about them?

    • What is the significance of their involvement?

  • What do you think is the key message?

  • Did anything surprise you? What was it?

  • Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you?  What were they?

---

  • Is there anything that stood out to you?  Share with the group and discuss.

  • Is there anything that left you with more questions?  What were they?  Share with group, discuss, and research. 

  • Biggest takeaway?

Assignment:

Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses?  Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

  • REMINDER: FV Church has multiple events planned in the future to help you and your family stay involved with the church and connected.  Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.  

  • Men’s Conference: March 15, 2025, at Dillsburg, PA.  

For more Information visit:  https://www.mantourministries.com/centralpamantour 

Register: https://www.mantourministries.com/events/the-central-pa-mantour-8 

Price is $20 Early registration ($25 after cut-off), youth 18 and under can register for $5.00.  

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:

  • NET Bible, Thinline Art Edition, Large Print, copyright 2021, by Thomas Nelson, Inc. a division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc.  The NET Bible, New English Translation, (NET), copyright 1996, 2019 by Biblical Studies Press, LLC  https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles

  • NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
    Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation

  • NKJV The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (NKJV); copyright 2013 David Jeremiah, Inc.
    Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. https://www.thomasnelson.com/bibles 

  • Knowing the Bible, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, by Steven M. Coleman, J. L. Packer, Dane C. Ortlund; copyright 2018 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois. 

  • The Good Book Guide to Zechariah, God’s big plan for struggling Christians, by Tim Chester, copyright 2005 by the Good Book Company.  https://www.thegoodbook.com   

Schedule: Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)

January 2025:

_x_ 001, 01/22 Haggai 1:1 – 2:23. (38 Verses)

_x_ 002, 01/29 Zechariah 1:1-21. (21 Verses)

February 2025:

_x_ 003, 02/05 Zechariah 2:1 – 3:10. (23 Verses)

_x_ 004, 02/12 --  Canceled due to weather  --

_x_ 005, 02/19 Zechariah 4:1 – 5:11. (25 Verses)

_x_ 006, 02/26 Zechariah 6:1 – 7:14. (29 Verses)

March 2025:

__ 007, 03/05 Zechariah 8:1- 23. (23 Verses)

__ 008, 03/12 Zechariah 9:1 – 10:1-12. (29 Verses) – updated.

__ 009, 03/19 Zechariah 11:1 – 12:1-14. (31 Verses) – updated.

__ 010, 03/26 Zechariah 13:1 – 14:1-21. (30 Verses) * - updated.

*Please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.

Comment