Bible Study Nov 6

November 6, 2024

Meeting# 10| This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

Introduction: This is the tenth week of the Fall Semester. Next week on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024) is our last meeting of the semester. Reminder that everyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend this week or next week’s meeting.

This part of the semester we are going to discuss Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice. Jesus is known as and is often called the “Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” In tonight’s meeting we’ll discuss what that title means, why it is an accurate description of Christ, and also briefly discuss the origin of the sacrificial system to atone for sin, a high level review the Levitical sacrificial system, significance of blood and water, what Jesus did on the cross, His resurrection and how Jesus was, is and always shall be the ultimate sacrifice.

It is important to also note that we all come from various backgrounds and points of view. Many of these topics have divided churches and caused friends to become enemies. The goal for tonight is to have a friendly discussion and if we have differing points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another. We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ; we should also depart the same, as friends and brothers in Christ. And sometimes there is no right or wrong answer, there is only interpretation of scripture from various points of view– Ultimately JESUS IS THE ANSWER.

We have a lot to cover in one meeting, so we may not get a lot of time to fully discuss these topics (some of these topics you could really devote a lifetime of study). You are encouraged to continue to research and learn. Please see the notes and references below for additional information.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to set aside time to identify who we were in Christ (the I AM statements). Did anyone take up the challenge? How did it go? - Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Lord, we recognize your power and authority. We thank you for giving us your one and only Son, Jesus to be the savior of the world. We know that we are sinners, we commit our lives to you and make you the Lord of our life. Help us to be more like you and help us to have courage to be bold to share you with others. – Amen

Scripture, Read/Reference the following:

Genesis 3

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

When was the first animal sacrifice to atone (cover) for sin?

Discuss among the group. (Genesis 3:7; 3:21. Adam and Eve cloth themselves with leaves, but God sacrifices an animal so that Adam and Eve would have clothes from the animal skins.) We often try and fix things ourselves rather than go to God first.

Last week we briefly discussed that in Genesis 4, God accepts Adam’s sacrifice but rejects Cain’s. Let’s dive into why we think God rejected Cain’s offering.

Discuss among the group. Perform a Google search, and review notes in various Study Bibles (preferably different translations) for Genesis 4 and the reason for God’s rejection.
- When it was time, in the process of time, in the course of time, or end-of-days, indicates the seventh day; that is the day that God had set-aside for rest and blessing.
- Able presented the first born and fat portions.
- Cain presented some.
- Able presented the first, Cain presented some.
- Is it reasonable, to assume with the information we have in various translations of the Bible, to think that Adam and Eve would have instructed their sons about substitutionary sacrifice?
- Does it have to be one or the other? Could there be significance in both giving the first and best portions as well as a substitutionary sacrifice?

Blood and Water are significant throughout the Bible. What are some scriptures that show the significance of blood and water?

Discuss among the group. Perform a Google search, and review notes in various Study Bibles.
- Blood as sacrifice: In the Bible, blood often symbolizes the shedding of life and is used to represent the sacrifice made for atonement and forgiveness, particularly in the context of Jesus’s death on the cross.
- Water as cleansing: Water is typically used as a symbol of purification and new life, representing the washing away of sin and spiritual renewal.

Other relevant scriptures:

John 19:34: This verse in the Gospel of John describes the moment when Jesus is pierced on the cross, and “there came out blood and water"“.
Exodus 7:19-21: In the story of the plagues of Egypt, the Nile River is turned to blood, illustrating thepower of God to bring judgment through the symbol of blood.
Ezekiel 36:25-26: This passage talks about God washing away the impurities of his people with water and cleansing them from their blood, signifying spiritual renewal.
1 John 5:6: This is He that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood, And further, in 1 John 5:8 he speaks of the Spirit and the water and the blood as the three witnesses to the Son of God.

What are the five types of sacrifices in Leviticus? (If there is time)

Burnt offering – Leviticus 1 and 6:8-13)
Grain offering (Also called the Meal or Tribute Offering) – Leviticus 2 and 6:14-23.
Sin Offering – Leviticus 4:1-5:13; 6:24-30; and 12:6-8.
Guilt Offering – Leviticus 5:14-6:7; 7:1-6; 14:12-18.
Peace Offering (Also called the fellowship offering; includes: thank offering, vow offering and freewill offering). – Leviticus 3 and 7:11-36.

Jesus said that He did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. What do we think this means? What are some scriptures that point to Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice?

Discuss among the group. Perform a Google search, and review notes in various Study Bibles.
- John 15:13: Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
- Hebrews 10:11-18: highlighting Jesus' single, perfect sacrifice that ended the need for further offerings.
- John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.
- Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates his love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
- Mark 10:45: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
- Ephesians 5:2: And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Jesus was and is the ultimate sacrifice. Through Jesus’ sacrifice there is no longer a need for the sacrificial system (Hebrews 9:15-28)

***

In tonight’s discussion:

Was there anything that stood out to you? Share with the group and discuss.
Was 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. Back to basics: Discussion about Bible translations, and how we got the Bible. Do you have a favorite Bible translation or translations? Be ready to discuss next week.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied from:

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/
ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008. The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois.
The Oswald Chambers Bible, CSB; Christian Standard Bible (CSB), copyright 2017, Holman Bible Publishers, Brentwood, Tennessee.
He Reads Truth, CSB; Christian Standard Bible (CSB), copyright 2017, Holman Bible Publishers, Brentwood, Tennessee.
Apologetics Study Bible, HCSB; Holoman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB), copyright 2009, Holman Bible Publishers, Brentwood, Tennessee.
NIV First-Century Study Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 2014, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Notes about Levitical Sacrificial System: https://solascriptura-tt.org/Diversos/Sacrificial-System.The-5-Sacrifices-In-Leviticus.pdf

Contributing Notes and comments from Chris Livelsberger:

1 Peter 2:9
But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. https://biblehub.com/nlt/1_peter/2.htm#footnotes

2 Corinthians 2:11
So that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. When read in context, Paul was talking about forgiveness. Which seems to imply that the scheme the evil one was trying to activate was the temptation to walk in unforgiveness. That is hardly that only scheme he tries to tempt and catch us in.

Jeremiah 1:7
But the LORD said unto me, say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I
command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD.

Romans 8:14
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.
In the older translations, it says sons instead of children, I this may have been because translators realized that there was the impression that women were being left out.

Showing that even from the OT Bible days God was affirming his daughters as equals in matters of faith. Whether or not we are all able to walk in our true identities in Christ can often depend not only on our perception of what that is, but the beliefs of others who have positions of power. To further that idea that God was not so interested in whether we were male or female, Revelations 19:7 declares that all believers are considered to be the Bride of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3:6 (NKJV)
who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Where do our thoughts come from?
Ephesians 6:12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. There is a teaching from a ministry that I love that dives deep into how this and other verses show how not even our thoughts and feeling are always our own, meaning that they can be a temptation from Satan’s kingdom or inspiration from the Holy Spirit. The next several thoughts are inspired by that teacher.

https://resources.beinhealth.com/products/sepa_pos=1&_sid=192ba52f6&_ss=r&variant=933458911

Genesis 3:11 “Who told you that you were naked?” the LORD God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?”

We often read that verse way to fast, and completely skip by the first question. Why would God ask, “who told you that you were naked” when it seems logical that they just automatically realized because their eyes were opened. But what if that which was presented as a spiritual awakening was really a removal of a God given block that protected us from spirit-to-spirit contact. To clarify, because God asked them, “who told you (that) you were naked” states that they didn’t just notice it on their own, and there were no other people around and there is no record of the snake saying anything else out loud.

Proverbs 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out.

1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT: https://bible.com/bible/116/1co.13.12.NLT
[12] Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.

This verse can be comforting because it is a reminder that faith is way more important than understanding all the mysteries of the Bible; with hope and love, which is the greatest.

Cain and Able’s Sacrifice

Genesis 4: (ESV)
Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. 3 In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. 6 The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted?[b] And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to[c] you, but you must rule over it.”

When read in the ESV translation, firstborn in verse 4 jumps out. ESV Romans 8:29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

Older translations are more powerful to use “predestined”. Doctrine around this can be tricky because some take this so literally that they decide that there is no use for evangelism, because there are some who are predetermined and some who are not. But this view is not held as true when you examine God’s heart in the scriptures; there is so much reference to the choices we make and the rewards, for good or for evil. It may be more accurate to say that God decided beforehand that Jesus would be needed, and that there would always be those who accepted him.

It is fascinating that Moses, the author of the first five books of the Bible, was inspired to include that Able offered not only the firstborn, which has huge scriptural significance, but also the fat in the account. How would Able have known that the firstborn and the fat were important to God? There is no record that we have that indicates how that information was received. Could it be that Adam and Eve made sacrifices to the Lord?

Genesis 2:21 is the only reference to something being killed before that and there is no talk of the details so it may seem that speculation is all we have, However we have the Holy Spirit to guide us and the promise of

Proverbs 25:2. The symbolism of something having to die to cover them is very powerful. There is no record of what happened to the meat from the slaughtered animal or animals, but it is doubtful that God would want to let it go to waste. It would have been a powerful teaching moment for Adam and Eve.

Verse 3 feels kind of nonchalant. Like, Cain felt obligated to bring something to God, so here you go this is what I got. And that Cain didn’t bring the first or his best offering.

But there is also significance of blood:

Leviticus 17:11
for the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the LORD. It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible. https://biblehub.com/nlt/leviticus/17.htm#footnotes

Hebrews 9:22
Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

_x_ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

_x_ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

_x_ 008, 10/23 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about tithing and salvation.

_x_ 009, 10/30 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

November 2024:

_x_ 010, 11/06 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice.

___ 011, 11/13 **UPDATED** Bible Translations (Video/Discussion) - Final meeting of the semester.

Comment

Bible Study October 30

October 30, 2024

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

Colossians has four main points:

Christ is God – Jesus is God in human form.
Christ is the Head of the Church – Jesus is the highest authority and first in our lives.
Union with Christ – We are reconciled with God through Jesus.
Warning against false teaching – Jesus is our hope and source of wisdom.

Introduction: This is the ninth meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group will continue meeting weekly 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm every Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024).

Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This part of the semester we are finishing up on our Bible study of the Book of Colossians.

The Book of Colossians is a book of connections, we are connected to God the Father through Jesus. And we are connected to Jesus through His sacrifice and our faith in His resurrection. We are called to be connected to Christ in order to have a restored relationship with God the Father and have eternal life.

Paul was writing from Rome while in prison and was writing the letter to warn the Colossian Church against false teachings infiltrating the Church. The problem was ideas from other philosophies and religions; like paganism, Judaism, and Greek philosophies and mythologies being combined with Christian beliefs. “Gnosticism” emphasized secret hidden knowledge. The Gnostics believed that salvation was achieved with knowledge, especially the pursuit of hidden esoteric knowledge. Many Biblical Scholars believe that Christians in the Colossian Church were being tempted to combine their Christian faith with these false cultural beliefs. Special hidden knowledge that pulls us away from God has been tempting us throughout all of time. Paul was reminding those who read his letter, to know that Jesus was both fully God and fully man (human), who purchased our salvation with the payment of His life.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to set aside time to pray, sign up for the Intercessors team, get involved – do something and to make a plan to pray more. Did anyone take up these challenges? - How did you do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Dear Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. We thank you for giving us Jesus, who is our example of how to live unselfishly, guided by love. Help us to be more like Jesus in all our relationships. Lord thank you for making a way to have a personal relationship with you. Help us to have courage and be bold to share you with others. – Amen

Scripture: Read – Colossians Chapter 4:1 – 18

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

In Chapter 4, Paul explains that as Christians we are to devote ourselves to prayer with an alert mind and thankful heart. What do we think this means?

Discuss among the group.

Have you ever grown tired of praying for something or someone? What did you do to overcome, or did you give up?

Discuss among the group.

Have you ever thought that persistent prayer is an expression of faith?

Discuss among the group.

In 4:4 Paul asked for prayer that he could proclaim the Good News about Christ clearly. We can request prayer to do that same.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group. Give examples if you are willing to share.

Paul instructs us to be wise when talking to non-believers making the most of opportunities to share the Gospel, and to let our conversation be gracious and attractive (in the Greek “seasoned with salt”).

What do we think this means? Why is this important? Discuss among the group.
- When we tell others about Christ, it is important to ALWAYS be gracious in what we say. No matter how much sense our message makes, or how truthful we are; if we do not communicate in a manner that is well received, we lose our effectiveness. However, sometimes tough-love is necessary.
Has anyone shared the gospel (or 3-circles) lately?
- How did it go? Did you have any obstacles to overcome? What did you do?
- Give examples if you are willing to share.

***

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?)
- Tychicus was a native of Asia Minor who became a Christian and a member of Paul’s ministry team (Acts 20:4). Biblical scholars believe that Tychicus carried this letter (Paul’s letter to the Colossians), as well as Ephesians and Philemon. (See also Ephesians 6:21, 22).
- Onesimus was Philemon’s converted Bondservant. Philemon was a wealth Christian who lived in the city of Colossae (about 100 miles inland from Ephesus. Biblical scholars believe Philemon heard the gospel during Paul’s three-year ministry in Ephesus and was saved. Philemon began serving the cause in the Colossian community, opening his home for a group of Christians to meet there regularly. At some point, Onesimus fled to Rome, possibly having stolen money or property from Philemon and became a fugitive. Onesimus was living in the most populated city of the Roman Empire, hoping to escape detection. In a rather remarkable set of circumstances – Onesimus somehow came into contact with Paul and became Christian. As he grew in Christ, he spent much time and effort helping Paul, who was constrained by his imprisonment. Paul knew of Onesimus’ fugitive status, wrongdoing and severed relationship against Philemon and recognized this issue needed to be addressed. Paul wrote the letter to Philemon as an appeal to appreciate the transformation that occurred in Onesimus’ life and to receive him back, but not as a bondservant, but as a fellow “beloved brother” (Philemon 1:16).
- Aristarchus was a Thessalonian who accompanied Paul on his third missionary journey. He was with Paul in the riot at Ephesus (Acts 19:29). He and Tychicus were with Paul in Greece (Acts 20:4). Aristarchus went to Rome with Paul (Acts 27:2).
- Mark is the cousin of Barnabas. This is believed to be the same person as “John Mark”, who accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey and suddenly departed (Acts 13:13) and whom Paul and Barnabas had a sharp disagreement (Acts 15:39). Paul’s perspective on Mark has changed and they became reconciled (Philemon 1:24).
- Jesus called Justus, there is not much known.
- Epaphras is a believer who’s love and prayer for the Colossians, and nearby cities of Laodicea and Hierapolis.
- Luke, the same Luke who authored the Gospel of Luke and Acts, accompanied Paul on some of his journeys and was believed to be with Paul throughout his two-year imprisonment in Caesarea and then in his two-year imprisonment in Rome.
- Demas later followed worldly pursuits and deserted Paul (2 Timothy 4:10).
- Nympha and the church in her house, because of political status of Christianity, there were no buildings dedicated to church services. The early Christians met in private homes. Philemon opened his home in Colossae, and someone named Nympha hosted the church in Laodicea.
- Archippus may have been the son of Philemon and Apphia, who may have been Philemon’s wife.
- Archippus is believed to have possibly had a significant ministry in Colossae (Colossians 4:17).
What do you think is the key message?
Did anything stand out, or something that surprised 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. Back to basics: Discussion about Jesus the ultimate sacrifice – Be ready to discuss sacrifice, (Levitical Law also known as Mosaic Law), significance of blood and water, what Jesus did on the cross, His resurrection and how Jesus was, is and forever shall be the ultimate sacrifice.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

_x_ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

_x_ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

_x_ 008, 10/23 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about tithing and salvation.

_x_ 009, 10/30 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about Jesus the ultimate sacrifice.

___ 011, 11/13 **UPDATED** Bible Translations (Video/Discussion) - Final meeting of the semester.

Comment

Bible Study October 23

October 23, 2024

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

Introduction: This is the eighth meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s meets weekly 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm every Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024). Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

Tonight, the Men’s group is going to have fellowship and, review and discuss salvation and tithing.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to read the book of Hosea. Did anyone take up the challenge? - How did you do? Discuss among the group.

Salvation:

Salvation is being saved or protected from evil, harm or a dangerous situation. In Christianity, salvation is a basic central concept of God saving us from the consequences of sin.

Let’s review The Three Circles: ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcj5G_4dwrI ) God created a perfect world for us (humans) and to be in close relationship with Him. But humans disobeyed God, which brought sin and death into the world; we now live in a fallen and broken world and people try anything to escape it. But all those things’ people try, it doesn’t fix anything, and people snap right back into brokenness.

Ultimately, if people die in that state of brokenness, they will be eternally separated from God. What we call Hell (complete separation from God). But God didn’t want to leave us in a state of brokenness. And God loved us so much, that he sent His one and only son, Jesus, to die on the cross as atonement for our sins. Jesus died as our substitute and took the wrath that we deserved, so that we can experience God’s mercy and grace. Jesus took our punishment, so we could be free. Jesus, often referred to as the Passover lamb, fulfilled the sacrifices of the old covenant by his death.

Salvation is not something that can be earned through good actions or behavior. Instead, it is a gift from God that comes through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We just have to be willing to accept it and let our relationship with God and Jesus work within us. Jesus said that if we would turn away from our sin and believe in Jesus, and make Him the Lord of our Life; we’d become a new creation and be restored back into God’s original design; we’d be a new person in Christ and He’ll restore us back into relationship with Him. So, there are only two types of people. Those who are in brokenness and those who are in God’s perfect design.

 Discuss among the group.

Have you committed your life to Jesus?

Is there anything holding you back from committing your life to Jesus?

Have you been baptized?

If you have not been baptized, please consider being baptized.

Do we all know what the Sinner’s prayer is? - Discuss.

The prayer expresses a person's belief in Jesus Christ and acknowledges Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and their desire to turn away from sin and have a relationship with God.

Let’s say the sinner’s prayer together:

I confess to Almighty God, and to you by brothers and sisters. That I have sinned through my own fault. In my thoughts, in my words, in what I have done, and in what I have failed to do. I ask you Lord Jesus for forgiveness of my sins. From this moment on, I reject and turn away from sin. I believe you are the Son of God, who takes away the sins of the world. You died and rose again. I invite you Lord Jesus to come into my life and work within me. I recognize and acknowledge you as my Lord and Savior. Help me follow you; Lord, I want to follow you; I commit myself to you and living your way. – Amen

(or)

Dear Lord Jesus, I am a sinner. I ask your forgiveness; I believe you died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead to defeat death. I turn away from sin and ask you to come into my life and work within me. I confess you as my Lord and Savior. Help me follow you; Lord, I want to follow you; I commit myself to you and living your way. – Amen

(or)

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite you to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow you as my Lord and Savior. - Amen

What other questions do you have?

Tithing:

What are different ways we can worship God?

 Sing
Prayer
Bible reading / Bible study
In our finances with tithing and giving

What is a tithe?

The word tithing means a tenth.
Tithing references the principle of giving 10% to God and His Church.

Honoring God with our finances is a crucial element of our relationship with God. It is easy to stand in church, sing songs, read the Bible, and pray, but it is much harder for us to trust God with our finances and give 10% of what we earn.

As a practice, tithing does not always come easy. The world teaches us to hold on to our wealth and focus on ourselves, invest in our retirement, and only to occasionally help people in need.

Tithing is a crucial element in our relationship with God, it reveals our heart, honoring God with our finances is evidence of a growing faith. Tithing reminds us of the ownership of God over all that we are and what we have.

Tithing acknowledges God as our source and provider.

Read: Luke 12:34

34 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

God sees the first thing as the root that governs all the rest. The first portion of our labor or income represents the totality. What we do with that first portion determines what happens to the rest.

Read: Genisis 4:1-7

Cain and Abel

4 Now Adam had sexual relations with his wife, Eve, and she became pregnant. When she gave birth to Cain, she said, “With the Lord’s help, I have produced [b] a man!” 2 Later she gave birth to his brother and named him Abel.

When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 3 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. 4 Abel also brought a gift—the best portions of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift, 5 but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected.

6 “Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? 7 You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”

Why do we think God rejected Cain’s offering? – Cain “presented some of his crops as a gift”; whereas Able gave “the best portions of the firstborn lambs of his flock.” Able honored God with the best portions; Cain gave some.
It is honorable to give some of our finances to the Church, however, to be obedient we should be giving the first and our best. Agree/Disagree – Discuss.

People give for all sorts of reasons to support worthy causes. Some give to support: saving, the rainforest, removing trash from the ocean. Saving baby seals, sea turtles, ocean whales, polar bears, or protecting endangered animals.

These are all noble causes, but they are not the same as tithing. Tithing is intended to honor the Lord with our finances.

Read: Proverbs 3:9-10
9 Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce.
10 Then he will fill your barns with grain,
and your vats will overflow with good wine.

What does “Honor the Lord with your wealth” mean to you? Discuss among the group.
Honor is the attitude we have when giving. Are we happy to give, or reluctant to give? Why? Discuss among the group.

Read: Mark 12:41-44
The Widow’s Offering
41 Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. [a] 43 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. 44 For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”

 What do we think Jesus meant by saying that the widow gave more than the others, when the rich clearly gave a larger amount of money? Discuss among the group.

Read: Matthew 6:24
Teaching about Money and Possessions
24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

 What do we think this means? Whom do you serve - God or Money? Discuss among the group.

It is important to remember that tithing is not a punishment. We often think of tithing as a “bill” that we have to pay no one really likes paying bills. - We need to think of tithing as an “investment.” We are investing in our Church, we are investing in each-other (through our giving to the church), we are investing in sending children to kids camp to learn about Jesus; some children learning about Jesus for the first time, and many other important functions of the church as well as spreading the gospel.

***

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: Colossians 4:1-18 .
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

 REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of tonight’s Bible study were 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/

4. LOGOS: Finding (&Sharing) Jesus on the Romans Road to Salvation https://www.logos.com/grow/nook-romans-road- salvation/#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20Romans%20Road,Jesus's%20free%20offer%20of%20salvation.

5. Answers in Genesis: Why did Jesus have to Die? https://answersingenesis.org/jesus/crucifixion/why-did-jesus-have-to-die/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw99e4BhDiARIsAISE7P83PFO9kdH_z_glEqO5zw5t3HjZaducbA1wIC2N37TnbG6wWGpiGw8aAqlJEALw_wcB

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

_x_ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

_x_ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

_x_ 008, 10/23 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about salvation and tithing.

___ 009, 10/30 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study October 16

October 16, 2024

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

Colossians has four main points:

Christ is God – Jesus is God in human form.
Christ is the Head of the Church – Jesus is the highest authority and first in our lives.
Union with Christ – We are reconciled with God through Jesus.
Warning against false teaching – Jesus is our hope and source of wisdom.

Introduction: This is the seventh meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s meets weekly 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm every Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024).

Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This part of the semester, The Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Colossians.

The Book of Colossians is a book of connections, we are connected to God the Father through Jesus. And we are connected to Jesus through His sacrifice and our faith in His resurrection. We are called to be connected to Christ in order to have a restored relationship with God the Father and have eternal life.

Paul was writing from Rome while in prison and was writing the letter to warn the Colossian Church against false teachings infiltrating the Church. The problem was ideas from other philosophies and religions; like paganism, Judaism, and Greek philosophies and mythologies being combined with Christian beliefs. “Gnosticism” emphasized secret hidden knowledge. The Gnostics believed that salvation was achieved with knowledge, especially the pursuit of hidden esoteric knowledge. Many Biblical Scholars believe that Christians in the Colossian Church were being tempted to combine their Christian faith with these false cultural beliefs. Special hidden knowledge that pulls us away from God has been tempting us throughout all of time. Paul was reminding those who read his letter, to know that Jesus was both fully God and fully man (human), who purchased our salvation with the payment of His life.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to continue the 16-day worship challenge. Did anyone take up the challenge? - How did you do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Lord, we thank you for giving us a new life with your only son, Jesus. We are grateful for His sacrifice, help us acknowledge your forgiveness, to grow our faith, and bear good fruit. – Amen

Reminder: If any of us says “God can forgive me, but I cannot forgive myself” – that is an incorrect belief, and places you in a position above God. When you are forgiven; you are forgiven. Agree / Disagree, discuss among the group.

Scripture: Read Colossians Chapter 3:1 – 25

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

In Chapter 3, Paul explains true Christian behavior – putting on the new nature that comes with acceptance of Christ, and how we should change our moral and ethical behavior by letting Christ live within us. Jesus shapes us into what we should be.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

“For you died to this life” means that we should lose our desire for worldly pleasures. Christ lives within us, and provides a different perspective to our lives here on earth. “Think about the things of heaven” means to look at life from God’s perspective and to seek what he desires. Following Christ means loving and serving in this world, regarding the world around us as God does; then we will live in harmony with Him.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

Lying disrupts unity and destroys trust. Lying can tear down relationships and leads to serious conflict in both our personal relationships, and within the church.

Discuss among the group.

To put on our new nature, means that our conduct should match our faith. To be Christina means more than just having good intentions; it means taking the right actions. The more we know Christ, the more we are being changed to be like him. We must never stop learning and obeying.

Discuss among the group.

The relationship between husbands, wives, parents and children are ordained by God from creation. Which is why Paul’s instructions on marriage represent the perfect will of God. Servitude practiced in Paul’s time were often not in keeping with God’s will, which is why Paul gives speaks directly to slaves/bondservants and masters, which would have been common for Colossae and other cities in ancient times. We can apply Paul’s message today, as employee - employer relationships.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

The words “submission” and “obedience” are powerful; they can cause harm when we misuse them to control others. Jesus is the perfect model of both leader and submission – though both equal with God, Jesus gave His life for us. Anyone in a position of leadership, or someone who has a circle of influence, we must imitate Him by lovingly providing for those under our care. And just as Jesus humbled Himself and obeyed God, we must too, submit to those in positions of authority, unless they instruct us to do something wrong or harmful.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

***

What does it mean to “forget the past” – what does it mean to “look forward to what lies ahead”? – Discuss.
In what ways do we need to get more serious about Christian life? Are there any areas needing disciplined? if you are willing, share with the group.
Why do we sometimes forget all the progress we have made and fall away from Christian beliefs? - Discuss

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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. Back to basics: Think about past giving, would you consider yourself a giving person? Or are you more reluctant to give? What does tithing, first fruits, and giving mean to you? How do we know that we are saved? – Be ready to discuss tithing and salvation at next week’s meeting.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:
Month, Meeting Number, Date, Book/Chapters/Verse/ (Total Verses)
September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

_x_ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

_x_ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 **UPDATED** Back to Basics: Discussion about tithing and salvation.

___ 009, 10/30 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study October 9

October 9, 2024

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

Colossians has four main points:

Christ is God – Jesus is God in human form.
Christ is the Head of the Church – Jesus is the highest authority and first in our lives.
Union with Christ – We are reconciled with God through Jesus.
Warning against false teaching – Jesus is our hope and source of wisdom.

Introduction: This is the sixth meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s meets weekly 7:00pm – 8:30 pm on Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024).

Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend. This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Colossians.

The Book of Colossians is a book of connections, we are connected to the Father God through Jesus. And we are connected to Jesus through His sacrifice on the cross and our faith in the resurrection. We should remain connected to Christ in our faith, so that we may have a restored relationship with God the Father and have eternal life.

Paul writing from prison in Rome, warned the Colossians against false teachings infiltrating the Colossian Church. The problem was syncretism; combining ideas from other philosophies and religions; like paganism, Judaism, and Greek philosophies and mythologies with Christian beliefs. Known as “Gnosticism” which emphasizes special hidden knowledge. Satan in the form of a snake tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden with the promise of special knowledge too.

The Gnostic point of view was that knowledge, especially the pursuit of hidden knowledge, leads to salvation. Many Biblical Scholars believe that Christians in the Colossian Church were being tempted to combine their Christian faith with these false cultural beliefs. Paul was reminding those who read his letter to know that Jesus was fully God and fully human and purchased our salvation with the payment of His life.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to a 16-day worship challenge. Did anyone take up the challenge? - How did you do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight.

Lord, we thank you for loving us unconditionally, help us to also love you with all our heart, all our mind, and to pursue your truth sending Jesus to us, we are grateful for His sacrifice. Help us to grow our faith and bear good fruit. – Amen

Scripture: Read – Colossians Chapter 2:1 – 23

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

Laodicea was located a few miles northwest of Colosse. The city was a wealthy center of trade and commerce, but later Christ would criticize the believers in Laodicea for their lukewarm commitment (Revelation 3:14-22). The fact that Paul wanted his letter passed on to the church in Laodicea indicates that Paul believed that false teaching may have spread there as well; or perhaps Paul wanted to prepare the church in Laodicea in case Gnosticism and false beliefs ever came to Laodicea.

Paul was combatting Gnosticism and false beliefs that were contradicting biblical doctrine, and undermining Christianity. Gnosticism insisted that secret knowledge was hidden from believers; Paul said that Christ provides all the knowledge we need. Gnosticism taught that the body was evil, and that Christ only seemed to be human, but really wasn’t; Paul said that Jesus was God in human form, living in a human body – Jesus was fully human and fully God.

Even in Paul’s day there were false ideas that sounded attractive to many. Exposure to such teaching could easily seduce a church that wasn’t well rooted in Christian doctrine. Similar teachings still threaten many in the church today. We become grounded in God’s word through Bible study and being mentored and mentoring others in sound Bible teaching.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

The key is centering ourselves on Christ and surrounding ourselves in His word. We should learn daily about Jesus, our Savior. Study and read the Bible often; stay humble and press towards wisdom, pray for knowledge and understanding. God has given us minds for learning. Receiving Christ as our Lord and Savior is just the beginning, we must continue to grow and follow His leadership; being rooted, built up and strengthened by faith.

Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

Paul uses the example of being “rooted” in Christ, just as plants draw nourishment from the soil and through their roots, we too draw our life-giving strength from Him; from Jesus Christ. We should avoid being fooled or drawn away from Biblical teaching by those who claim to have secret knowledge; or philosophies based on human ideas and experiences. We must use our minds to resist false teaching, study God’s word and keep our eyes on Christ.

What are some false teachings today that are contrary to Biblical beliefs? Discuss among the group.

***

What can we do to protect ourselves from distortions of the gospel? – Discuss.
Why is it difficult for people to accept the fact that we can do nothing to earn our salvation? – Discuss
Why is the gospel a mystery to some people? Why might some Christians want to keep it a mystery? – Discuss
Why might some Christians feel uncomfortable about sharing their faith? What can be done to overcome these uncomfortable feelings? - Discuss

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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: Colossians 3:1-25 Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.
REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 **UPDATED** TBD

___ 009, 10/30 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study October 2

October 2, 2024

Meeting# 5| This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

Colossians has four main points:

Christ is God – Jesus is God in human form.
Christ is the Head of the Church – Jesus is the highest authority and first in our lives.
Union with Christ – We are reconciled with God through Jesus.
Warning against false teaching – Jesus is our hope and source of wisdom.

Introduction: This is the fifth meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s meets weekly 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm on Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024).
Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Colossians.

The Book of Colossians is a book of connections, we are connected to the Father God through Jesus. And we are connected to Jesus through His sacrifice on the cross and our faith in the resurrection. We should remain connected to Christ in our faith, so that we may have a restored relationship with God the Father and have eternal life.

Paul writing from prison in Rome, warned the Colossians against false teachings infiltrating the Colossian Church. The problem was syncretism – combining ideas from other philosophies and religions; like paganism, Judaism, and Greek philosophies and mythologies with Christian believes. This became known as “Gnosticism” which emphasizes special knowledge or hidden knowledge. Satan in the form of a snake tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden with the promise of special knowledge too. Gnosis in Greek means “to know” or “knowledge.” The Gnostics denied Biblical creation and downplayed Jesus’ humanity; claiming that he was not fully human. The group tended to focus on the wisdom of Jesus and deny the death and resurrection – which removes our core Christian belief that Jesus’ death redeemed us all from sin.

The Gnostic point of view was that knowledge, especially the pursuit of hidden knowledge, leads to salvation. Many Biblical Scholars believe that Christians in the Colossian Church were being tempted to combine their Christian faith with these false cultural beliefs. Paul was reminding those who read his letter to know that Jesus was fully God and fully human and bought our salvation with the payment of His life.

In this past Sunday’s sermon, Candace challenged us to perform communion daily. Did anyone take up the challenge? - How did you do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Lord, we thank you for sending Jesus to us, we are grateful for His sacrifice. Help us to grow our faith and bear good fruit. – Amen

Scripture: Read – Colossians Chapter 1:1 – 29

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

The beginning of Paul’s letter opens with a greeting, a note of thanksgiving and a prayer for spiritual wisdom and strength. Paul then provides a discussion of the person and work of Christ, with His death on the cross making it possible for us to stand in the presence of God. Paul then challenges the Colossians to reject false-teaching and live in union with Christ.

Throughout the letter Paul combats false teaching of Gnosticism. Paul commended the Colossians for their faith, love and hope as they looked forward to heaven. Biblical scholars believe that Paul deliberately avoided the word “knowledge” in the letter because Gnostics looked to special, hidden knowledge; but it is not what we know that brings us salvation - it is through our faith in Jesus.

Wherever Paul went, he preached the Good News to anyone and everyone; Gentiles, Jewish leaders and even to his Roman guards. Whenever people believed in the message that Paul spoke, they were changed. God’s word is not just for our information, it is for our TRANSFORMATION. Becoming a Christian means that we are no longer seeking to serve our own needs, but bearing good fruit for God.

· Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

The false teaching trying to influence the Colossian church was that spiritual perfection was a secret and hidden plan that only a few privileged people could discover. Paul called God’s plan a message kept secret and hidden until Christ came. Through Christ the message was revealed and open to all.

· Agree/Disagree, discuss among the group.

***

Why is knowledge, especially hidden knowledge so tempting? Discuss among the group.
What is the difference between learning to know God, and increasing our knowledge about God? – Discuss.
What roles to faith, hope and love plan in building a firm foundation for the Christian life? – Discuss.
What is it important that believers agree about “core” or “fundamental truths”? - Discuss.
What pressures or forces do Christians face that might confuse their understanding? – Discuss.
Are there any fundamental truths that you struggle with or need clarification? – Discuss

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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: Colossians 2:1-23

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

REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

_x_ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

___ 009, 10/30 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 TBD

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study September 25

September 25, 2024

Meeting# 4| This Week’s Leader: David Goodno (Lane Butt or Tom Landis as backup, if David is unavailable.)

Philippians can be divided into four sections:

1. Paul’s joy in living for Jesus (Ch. 1:1-30).
2. Examples of joyful humility (Ch. 2:1-30).
3. Pressing toward the goal (Ch. 3:1-21).
4. Exhortation (urging, advice, appeal) and encouragement (Ch. 4:1-23).

Introduction:

This is the fourth meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s meets weekly 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm on Wednesdays through November 13, 2024 (11/13/2024).
Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Philippians (Sept.) and Colossians (Oct.)

The Book of Philippians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to encourage believers to maintain joy and hope in times of suffering. As we finish up our reading of Paul’s letter, continue to focus on past and current challenges; the difficult times that we’ve had to face and our currently facing - remember our circumstances are not the “final word.” It ain’t over, till God says it’s over. Paul said he could rejoice in everything; that God is always, ALWAYS bigger, greater and superior to anything we can face. We should remain planted and faithful to the Lord through it all, our eyes on Him!

In his letter Paul shows us how to live successful Christian lives. Often, we allow our job titles or careers to define us; Christ’s attitude was one of humility and self-sacrifice; our spiritual growth requires self-discipline and obedience, as we grow and become mature Christians, our identity should be in Christ.

When we first started this semester, we took up the challenge to pray every morning as soon as we woke up (before our feet touched the ground). - How did everyone do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Lord, help us to fully experience your love, joy, and peace that can only be found in you. Help us endure through all our struggles, help us to remain calm in the storm; give us peace and understanding. Help us find the way, when we can’t see the way. Christ, we acknowledge you as our Lord, and savior, as we lean into you, lean into us.

In Jesus’ name. – Amen

Scripture: Read - Philippians Chapter 4:1 – 23

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

The fourth chapter of Paul’s letter opens with encouragement to remain true to the Lord. But how? We need to keep our eyes and focus on Christ. Keep in mind that this world, all its ups and downs, highs and lows, these things are temporary; we should keep our faith, strength and hope in Jesus. Jesus will bring everything in this world under His control. We should resist negative influences of temptation, avoid and steer clear of false teachings; messages that would lead us astray. If we have questions, don’t seek answers or place your trust in what you find on YouTube, or the internet, we should go to our pastors, Christian mentors with our questions. Don’t lose heart, and never give up.

What is the “Warrior Ethos” – US Army values? As a group google search and discuss.

I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade.

 Can this be applied to Christian life? - Yes
How would we go about doing that? - Put Jesus first in our lives. Do not allow the enemy to weaken our faith or hope. Never quit. ALWAYS be looking for a spiritual mentor, and always be looking for people you can mentor and lead to Christ.

Paul addresses a disagreement between two believers, Euodia and Syntyche. These two women were workers in Christ in the Philippian church, their broken relationship was significant enough for Paul to address it in his letter.

Paul asks for his “true partner” – some translations use the word “companion” to help the women find resolution. It is not known who this true partner or companion actually is. Scholars believe that the partner/companion could be

Epaphroditus, or Syzygus (possibly a person’s name).

What are we told about Euodia and Syntyche in verse 3? How does this underline the seriousness of what is happening within this church.
What kinds of reasons do Christians who are in the same Church fall out with one another?
Does it matter?
We need to take any disagreements with other believers seriously. It is possible to full all in for Christ, and yet have broken relationships with other believers. We should not stand by idly or wait for the dispute to resolve itself. Are there any past disagreements that come to mind? If you are willing, please share among the group. How did you address the situation, and what was the outcome? – Discuss among the group.

Paul tells us not to worry about anything. This may seem impossible – we all have worries, worries about our jobs, life, relationships, politics; our lives are constantly filled with uncertainty and worry.

What is the cure for anxiety according to verses 6-7?
What can we do as believers to reduce worry?

True peace is not found in positive thinking, a life without conflict or having good feelings. True peace is found in knowing that God is in control. What we put into our mind determines what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us (4:8) to focus on minds with thoughts that are pure, true, honorable, right, admirable and worthy of praise. We need to examine what we are putting into our mind through television, books, social media, and the internet. Above all read God’s word and pray; learning to put it into practice and apply God’s word to our lives.

Thoughts? Discuss among the group.

Paul says that he has all he needs, that their generosity was a sweet-smelling sacrifice.

What do we think this means? - Paul may have been referring to a peace offering, Leviticus 7:12-15, which contains instructions for such offerings of thanksgiving. Although Greek and Roman Christians were not Jews and had not offered sacrifices according to Old Testament laws and would have been quite familiar with pagan rituals of offering sacrifices.
Have you ever received a meaningful gift? What was it? If you are willing share with the group. / Discuss.
I’ve heard it said that “something given has no value” – is this true? Discuss among the group.
Do you consider yourself a giver? Or do you find yourself reluctant to give? Discuss among the group.

It is also important to remember that Paul fully relied on God throughout his imprisonment, and he was content - Jesus was the source of his strength. Paul showed amazing dependence on God throughout his life and ministry, and we can trust that God will always meet our needs and provide for us as well.

Finish this sentence: “You know it’s going to be a bad day when…”

What can we say to help someone feel more optimistic about life?
What does Paul recommend for all believers regarding prayer?
What promises are recorded in Chapter 4?
What do we think causes a person to develop a negative attitude about life?
What causes some people to approach life with an attitude of gratitude?
What can we do to prevent negative attitudes from dominating our points of view?

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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?

Given Philippi’s strategic location, what kind of city would you expect it to be? What typical problems would you expect to find in the city? What problems would the church in Philippi be having? What similar problems do churches face today?
Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Colossians 1:1-29

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

REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

5. US Army Warrior Ethos: https://www.army.mil/values/warrior.html

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

_x_ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

___ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

___ 009, 10/30 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 TBD

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study September 18

September 18, 2024

Weekly Wednesdays:
CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Meeting# 3| This Week’s Leader: David Goodno (Lane Butt or Tom Landis as backup, if David is unavailable.)

Philippians can be divided into four sections:

1. Paul’s joy in living for Jesus (Ch. 1:1-30).
2. Examples of joyful humility (Ch. 2:1-30).
3. Pressing toward the goal (Ch. 3:1-21).
4. Exhortation (urging, advice, appeal) and encouragement (Ch. 4:1-23).

Introduction:

This is the third meeting of the Fall Semester. The Men’s “Called” Growth Group’s will continue meeting weekly, every Wednesday through November 23, 2024 (11/13/2024); we meet 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Philippians (Sept.) and Colossians (Oct.)

The Book of Philippians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to encourage believers to maintain joy and hope in times of suffering. As we read Paul’s letter, we should focus on past and current challenges and difficult times that we’ve faced and remember that we should not look at our circumstances as the “final word.” Paul said he could rejoice in everything; that God is always, ALWAYS greater and above anything we may face, and that we should remain planted and faithful to the Lord.

In his letter Paul shows us how to live successful Christian lives. Often, we allow our job titles or careers to define us; Christ’s attitude was one of humility and self-sacrifice; our spiritual growth requires self-discipline and obedience, as we grow and become mature Christians, our identity should be in Christ.

Last week we renewed our commitment to pray every morning as soon as we woke up (before our feet touched the ground). - How did everyone do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer:

(Read Mark 4:1-25) Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to come together and study your word tonight. Lord help us to remain in you and may we be the fertile soil. Heavenly Father you are the light of the World, may Your light shine on us, and Your word be a lamp unto our feet to encourage us to take action. - Amen

Scripture:

Read - Philippians Chapter 3:1 – 21

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

The third chapter of Paul’s letter begins with encouragement that no matter what happens, that we should remain and rejoice in the Lord. The Bible, God’s Word is our safeguard, when we read it; when it is read in Church, His Word speaks to us; it identifies areas in our lives where we are doing well and lets us know where corrections are needed.

What does Paul mean by “Watch out for those dogs”? Who are the dogs? Search Google and see what results are found. Some believe that “dogs” was meaning non-Jews, however, in this instance this was most likely not Paul’s intent. Some scholars believe that Paul was warning Christians to stay away from those outside their belief that may try and influence them away from faith in Christ. Some other scholars believe that “dogs” and “mutilators” were likely Judaizers – Jewish Christians who wrongly believed it was essential for Gentiles to follow all of the Old Testament Jewish laws in order to receive salvation. What do we think? – Discuss among the group.

Paul criticized Judaizers because they looked at Christianity backwards, they forgot that Grace given by Christ was and is a free gift, we cannot earn it; work for it or do anything to get it. Grace is freely given; we just have to accept it. It is easy to place emphasis on our efforts, but God values our attitudes above all else. We have to remember that we should not measure our spirituality by fulfillment of duties or our works. No amount of law keeping, self-discipline, or religious effort can make us right with God. Righteousness comes only from God, as we receive right standing with him by trusting in Christ. Agree / Disagree? – Discuss among the group.

Sometimes trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves us drained and discouraged. We can feel so far from perfect that we think we can never be pleasing to God. When Paul mentions “perfection” in 3:12, Paul is believed to be meaning spiritual maturity or completeness, not necessarily being flawless in every detail. Those who are spiritually mature in their faith should press into the Holy Spirt and find others to mentor, those who are new or starting out in their faith journey should work on establishing Christ as their foundation and finding a spiritual mentor who can guide them. - Discuss

In 3:14 Paul compares Christian life with running a race. Athletes place themselves under strict training regimens and compete with all their ability.

How can we apply this to our lives? (This means that we should train ourselves, discipline our bodies and minds; there should be no place for complacency, laziness, distractions and moral failure. We should play to win, with the prize being one with Christ.)
Are we training?
Are we playing to win?
Are we even in the race?
In what ways do we need to get more serious about running the race of the Christian life?

Paul considered his past accomplishments worthless for the sake of Christ. How can our past accomplishments get in the way of our growth in the Lord?

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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?

Given Philippi’s strategic location, what kind of city would you expect it to be? What typical problems would you expect to find in the city? What problems would the church in Philippi be having? What similar problems do churches face today?
Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Philippians 4:1-23
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.
REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied from:

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/
ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008. The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois.
NLT, Life Application Bible Studies, Philippians and Colossians; copyright 1998, 2009, Tyndale House Publishers Inc, Carol Stream, Illinois.
The Good Book Guide to Philippians, Philippians Shining with joy, by Steven J. Lawson; copyright 2017, The Good Book Company www.thegoodbookcompany.com

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

___ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

___ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

___ 009, 10/30 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 TBD

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study September 11

September 10, 2024

Meeting#2 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno (Lane Butt or Tom Landis as backup, if David is unavailable.)

Philippians can be divided into four sections:

Paul’s joy in living for Jesus (Ch. 1:1-30).
Examples of joyful humility (Ch. 2:1-30).
Pressing toward the goal (Ch. 3:1-21).
Exhortation (urging, advice, appeal) and encouragement (Ch. 4:1-23).

Introduction: This is our second meeting of the Fall Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group, we will be meeting weekly every Wednesday, through November 23, 2024 (11/13/2024); 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Philippians (Sept.) and Colossians (Oct.)

The Book of Philippians is a letter written by the apostle Paul, and a letter to encourage believers to maintain joy in suffering and to pursue unity in the church. As we read Paul’s letter, we should try and think of past circumstances or current situations we are currently going through. Paul’s message is that we should not look at our circumstances as the “final word.” Paul said he could rejoice in everything; that God is always, ALWAYS greater than anything we may face, and that we should remain faithful to the Lord.

Last week in our meeting we were given the challenge to pray every morning as soon as we woke up. - How did everyone do? Discuss among the group.

This Week’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for all you do for us; everything big and small, seen and unseen. Guide us and help us to be more like Jesus every day. Lord, help us to remember that you are with us through everything, help us to endure hard times and to keep moving forward, keeping our eyes on you. - Amen

Scripture: Read - Philippians Chapter 2:1 – 30

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

The second chapter of Paul’s letter speaks about the joy we can experience in serving others. Many people, even some Christians, live only to make a good impression on others or to please themselves. – Selfishness only brings conflict, which is why Paul stressed spiritual unity, asking the Philippians to love one another and to be one in the spirit and purpose.

This makes me think of the words: “We are one in the spirt, we are one in the Lord… And we pray that all unity will one day be restored. And they’ll know we are Christians by our Love.”

When we work together, caring for the problems of others as if they were our own, we demonstrate Christ’s example of putting others first and in doing this we experience unity. We need to remember that the life we live is not meant to be our own, we should put others first; there is great joy to be had in sharing each other’s burdens. I’ve heard it said that “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a Jet-Ski.” Although this is true, we need to remember that riding a Jet-Ski is fun, but like many things in this world, the joy is temporary. The Jet-Ski will run out of gas eventually, the Jet-Ski requires regular maintenance to run properly, the cool stickers and paint will eventually fade. – We need to remember that all things in this world are temporary, but our salvation is forever, trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and do not waiver. Selfishness can ruin a Church, but genuine humility builds it.

Before God we were ignorant sinners, when we come to faith we were forgiven, but yet we remain sinners, we must seek God’s grace and forgiveness daily. We have great worth in God’s Kingdom. We are to lay aside selfishness and treat others with respect and courtesy. Considering other’s interests as more important than our own links us with Christ. – Agree / Disagree?

Philippi was a cosmopolitan city, the church was diverse, with people from all walks of life and backgrounds. The church included Jewish converts, wealthy businesspeople, slaves, and the jailer who served the colony. With so many different backgrounds it must have been difficult to maintain unity. Paul encourages us to guard against any selfishness, prejudice, or jealousy that might lead to dissension.

Jesus was humble, willing to give up his rights in order to obey God and serve people. Like Christ, we should have a servant’s attitude, serving out of love for God and for others, not out of guilt or fear. Remember YOU choose YOUR attitude; people don’t choose it for you. – Agree / Disagree?

Often people excuse selfishness, pride or evil by claiming they deserve it. They think it’s okay to cheat on a test, because they deserve to pass the class – as believers we should have a different attitude. If we say we follow Christ, we must also say that we want to live and act as He did. Agree / Disagree?

Can we think of two or three examples of people who have become united for an important cause? What comes to your mind? Discuss among the group.
What external opposition does FV Church as well as other churches in Gettysburg, and the immediate surrounding areas face?
What do the verses, in Chapter 2: 5-11 tell us about Christ and what he did?
What characteristics of Christ does Paul challenge us to have?
What influences in our culture today push attitudes of self-importance and self-interest? What can we do to counter these beliefs and influences?

When you read Chapter 2:14 and 15
14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.

Do these words speak anything to you?

Why are complaining and arguing so harmful? If all that unchurched people know about a church is that its members constantly argue, complain and gossip, they get a false impression of Christ. Our lives should be characterized by moral purity, patience and peacefulness, wo that we will “shine brightly” in a dark and depraved world.

I saw a message once that said “Sometimes, you are the only Bible others will ever read.” We need to remember that WE are representatives of Christ, wherever we go our actions reflect and represent Christ – we need to be mindful of: what we do, how we act, how we react, the things we say and the words we use.
- How would you rate yourself?
- Are there things you could do better?
  - Discuss among the group.
Is there anything that needs to be sacrificed in your life to be closer to Jesus?
- What are some things you might need to give up, or have already given up?
- Is there anything you that is holding you back from making that sacrifice?
  - What can be done to overcome the resistance to commit?

***

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 stand out, or something that surprised 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?

Given Philippi’s strategic location, what kind of city would you expect it to be? What typical problems would you expect to find in the city? What problems would the church in Philippi be having? What similar problems do churches face today?
Listen to the song “By Our Love” performed by King and Country. Was there anything in the lyrics or song that stood out to you? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9zoq3k-3K0
Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Philippians 3:1-21 Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.
REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied from:

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/
ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008. The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway, Wheaton, Illinois.
NLT, Life Application Bible Studies, Philippians and Colossians; copyright 1998, 2009, Tyndale House Publishers Inc, Carol Stream, Illinois.
The Good Book Guide to Philippians, Philippians Shining with joy, by Steven J. Lawson; copyright 2017, The Good Book Company www.thegoodbookcompany.com

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Philippians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

_x_ 002, 09/11 Philippians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

___ 003, 09/18 Philippians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

___ 004, 09/25 Philippians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

___ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

___ 009, 10/30 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 TBD

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study September 4

September 3, 2024

Meeting# 1| This Week’s Leader: David Goodno (Lane Butt or Tom Landis as backup, if David is unavailable.)

Philippians can be divided into four sections:

Paul’s joy in living for Jesus (Ch. 1:1-30).
Examples of joyful humility (Ch. 2:1-30).
Pressing toward the goal (Ch. 3:1-21).
Exhortation (urging, advice, appeal) and encouragement (Ch. 4:1-23).

Introduction: This is our first meeting of the Fall Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group, will be meeting weekly every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Philippians (Sept.) and Colossians (Oct.)

The Book of Philippians is a letter written by the apostle Paul, about A.D. 60 (60 – 62). It is one of four letters, along with Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon.

The letter is a message of encouragement and joy. Paul wrote the letter to encourage believers to maintain joy in suffering and to pursue unity in the church for the sake of the gospel’s advancement. This letter uses the words joy and rejoice more than a dozen times, making it one of Paul’s most uplifting letters. As we read Paul’s letter, we should try and think of some of the past circumstances we’ve faced or pressing matters we are currently going through.

Paul’s message is that we should not look at our circumstances as the “final word.” Paul was possibly chained to a Roman guard as he wrote this letter. - He said he could rejoice in everything; that God is always, ALWAYS greater than anything we may face, and that the Lord will take care of our needs.

Behind prison bars is not the place you would expect a person to find happiness. And yet Paul did. He was able to say, “Rejoyce in the Lord always!”, even from prison. How could Paul – the world traveling missionary who had been spreading Christianity throughout the Roman Empire – find joy and contentment in prison? And why would God put him there? Wouldn’t it have been far better to have Paul out there sharing the gospel message? - Yet Paul was both joyful and content.

While we read and study Paul’s letter this semester, think about how we can follow Paul’s example and use that to help us through difficult circumstances we may face.

This Week’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for never giving up on us and for continuing to work in our lives. Help us to surrender to you and help us to be more like Jesus every day. Lord, we are unworthy on our own, but through Jesus we are worthy. - Amen

Scripture: Read - Phillipians Chapter 1:1 – 30

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

The first chapter of this letter speaks about the joy we can experience in everyday life – no matter what troubles we’re facing. To Paul, living was all about his relationship with Christ. Understand that Paul didn’t know if this time in prison would end with his execution. To live is Christ, he says, but to die is gain. Whether he lived or died, Paul knew he would be right where God wanted him, and he was content with that. When we have that kind of attitude, we’re not worrying, fretting, scheming, plotting or feeling hopeless. We’re free instead to Live life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ – Because God will take care of the rest.

WORD STUDY: Philippians 1:1 – The word ‘ebed (Hebrew) and doulos (Greek) is often translated as “slaves”. The New Living Translation (NLT) renders this word as “slaves”; where the English Standard Version (ESV) and New International Version (NIV) renders the word as “servant,” New King James Version (NKJV) renders the word as “bondservant.” However, the terms cover a range of relationships that require a range of renderings – either “slave”, “bondservant,”mor “servant” – depending on the context. In Old Testament times, one might enter slavery either voluntarily, to escape poverty or to pay off a debt, or involuntarily, by birth, being captured in battle, or as punishment through judicial sentence. Protection for all in servitude in ancient Israel was provided by the Mosaic Law. In New Testament times, a doulos is often best described as a “bondservant” or “servant” - someone who is bound to serve for a specific amount of time, usually a lengthy amount of time. Whichever translation we read, we can take away that what is being described is a deep commitment, covenant, vow or obligation.

Christ showed true humility when He laid aside is rights and privileges as God to become human. He poured out His life to pay the penalty we deserve. Laying aside self-interest is essential to all our relationships.

We are to take Christ’s attitude is serving others. We must renounce personal recognition and merit when we give up our self-interest, we can serve with joy, love and kindness. Agree or disagree, discuss.
This letter is a personal letter, written to the Philippians. Paul wanted to thank the believers for helping him when he was in need. Paul also wanted to tell them why he could be full of joy despite his imprisonment and upcoming trial. The Roman colony of Philippi was located in northern Greece (called Macedonia in Paul’s time). The church in Philippi consisted mostly of Gentile, non-Jewish believers who were not familiar with the Old Testament, which is most likely why he did not quote any Old Testament passages in this letter.
We get upset at children who fail to appreciate small gifts, yet we undervalue God’s immeasurable gifts of grace and peace. Instead, we often chase after things, possessions, money or shallow experiences. What can we do to recognize and appreciate the gifts God has given us?
Partnership summarizes an important component of Paul’s view of the church. Paul was filled with joy as he thought about those who prayed for, encouraged, and supported him in Philippi. Paul had helped them just a few years earlier, and now they were helping him. It was a two-way relationship – there was mutual love and support. Partnership should characterize the church today. In fact, this is what it means to function as the body of Christ, helping and supporting the church and each other.
- What can we do to promote and nurture supportive relationships within the church?
- How can we partner with believers from other congregations?
- Think about your growth in faith over the years, who encouraged you most and brought out the best in you? If you are willing, share with the group.
- Do you think you can lead and mentor others in their faith journey? Why or why not? - What about the three circles?
- Think about people who have helped you grow as a Christian, discuss among the group. Consider thanking them for that encouragement.
- Think about someone you know that needs encouragement, does anyone come to mind? Ask God to help you understand their circumstances, and what you can do to help that person grow. – if you are willing share with the group.
Paul had plenty of reasons for becoming discouraged – he faced imprisonment, yet he could face the future with confidence because he was not living for himself.
- In a discouraging situation, what can a person choose to do?
- How do we usually react in tough times? What can we do to be more / remain positive in our attitude and responses?
- How can difficult times increase our dependence on Christ?
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 stand out, or something that surprised 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?

Given Philippi’s strategic location, what kind of city would you expect it to be? What typical problems would you expect to find in the city? What problems would the church in Philippi be having? What similar problems do churches face today?
Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Philippians 2:1-30
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.
REMINDER: This Fall 2024 Semester Men’s group will be meeting every Wednesday, 09/04/2024 through 11/13/2024; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

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

September 2024:

_x_ 001, 09/04 Phillipians 1:1-30. (30 Verses)

___ 002, 09/11 Phillipians 2:1-30. (30 Verses)

___ 003, 09/18 Phillipians 3:1-21. (21 Verses)

___ 004, 09/25 Phillipians 4:1-23. (23 Verses)

October 2024:

___ 005, 10/02 Colossians 1:1-29 (29 Verses)

___ 006, 10/09 Colossians 2:1-23 (23 Verses)

___ 007, 10/16 Colossians 3:1-25 (25 Verses)

___ 008, 10/23 Colossians 4:1-18 (18 Verses)

___ 009, 10/30 Bible Translations (Video and Discussion)

November 2024:

___ 010, 11/06 TBD

___ 011, 11/13 TBD (FINAL MEETING OF THE SEMESTER)

Comment

Bible Study May 29

May 29, 2024

Meeting# 9 (Chapters 21 & 22) | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

(Reminder to the leader, we have been running over timewise, try and start as close to 7:00 pm as possible.)

Introduction:

This is our ninth and final meeting, of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group Spring Semester. (Wednesday, 05/29/2024 is our last meeting – Everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend.)

The Men’s group is taking a break in June and July and will meet again for a short semester in the month of August. The next Men’s group meeting will be Wednesday, 08/07/2024. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

The Called Men’s Group is finishing the study of the Book of Revelation. The Book is a message of hope and warning for believers to repent from sin and begin living righteously. The Book was also written to encourage the seven churches to resist demands of the Roman emperor to worship him, instead of God. The Book of Revelation now warns us in present-time to resist temptations of the modern world that pulls us away from God; we should remain focused on Christ.

As we have continually said thought out the series, the message of the Book of Revelation should not have us hiding in our basement or building bomb shelters; it is a message to encourage us to tell others about Jesus.

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)
2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)
3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)
4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)
5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)
6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

This Week’s Prayer:

Our Gracious Heavenly Father, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight to study your word. Lord, we honor you and keep your name holy. We thank you for all you do for us, give us strength when we are overwhelmed by temptation. Lord, we trust you; help us to remember your assurances, and cling to you. Lord help us to reject the worldly lie of focusing on the here and now; help us remain focused on you and your will. In Christ’s name - Amen

Quick review of last week (Revelation Ch. 19 and 20) and tonight’s conclusion:

In Chapter 19, After the defeat of Babylon, there is celebration; a great multitude of heavenly praise to God for his victory. Christ returns, but no longer as a Lamb; as a rider on a white horse. The armies of Heaven followed Him, also riding on white horses. The beast and the false prophet are thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur; the lake of fire, and Satan’s army is defeated.

In Chapter 20, Satan was imprisoned for 1,000 years. Once the 1,000 years is over, Satan is released, and then thrown into the lake of fire, joining the beast and the false prophet - there they are tormented forever and ever. The final judgement occurs, all are judged. Anything wicked – Satan, the beast, the false prophet, the demons, death, the grave, all those whose name was not written in the Book of Life; those who did not place their faith in Jesus Christ. – John’s visions did not have any gray area when describing God’s judgement.

Tonight, the Book concludes with the promise of Christ’s return, and a warning to every generation. Christ is victorious, all evil is defeated. We should focus on and remember that there is hope and victory is to come.

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 21:1 – 22:21

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

Contrast of the Bible’s beginning and the end (Genisis vs. Revelation):
- In Genesis, the sun is created – in Revelation, the sun is not needed.
- In Genesis, God creates the world – in Revelation, God creates a new heaven and new earth.
- In Genesis, Satan is victorious, humanity falls into sin – in Revelation, God restores people to sinlessness and Satan is defeated.
- In Genesis, Adam and Eve run from God – in Revelation, people are invited to live with God forever.
- In Genesis, people and the earth are cursed – in Revelation, the curse is removed.
- In Genesis, people are doomed to death – in Revelation, death is defeated, believers live with God forever.

Chapter 21:

What did you imagine Heaven being like when you were a child and now that you are an adult, how has your vision of Heaven changed? – Explain and discuss with the group.
What are some misconceptions of Heaven as portrayed by television and movies? (Like harps, clouds etc.) discuss among the group.
The Holy city, the New Jerusalem is described as the place where God will remove all sorrows. There will be no death, no sorrow, no crying, or pain. No matter what we are going through, God has written the final chapter, and God will be more wonderful than we could have ever imagined.
- New Jerusalem will have God living with His people. – Discuss among the group.
The Earth as we know it will not last forever. After God’s judgement He will create a New Earth.
- Read: Romans 8:18-30.
- Read: Isaiah 65:17, and 66:22.
- Read: 2 Peter 3:7-13.
 Is there anything interesting or noteworthy about “It is finished!” and “I am the Alpha and Omega – the Beginning and the End.”
- John 19:28-30; On the cross, at the moment of death, Jesus said “it is finished.”
- “I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last,” What do we think this means? - this means that God remains from the beginning to the end of time.
What about “To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.” What is meant by the “water of life”?
- Water of life is a symbol of eternal life. Jesus used this same image with the Samaritan woman. (see John 4:7-14) it shows the fullness of life with God and our belief in Him.
What is the second death?
- The second death is spiritual death, complete separation from God.

Chapter 22:

Why would the nations need to be healed if all evil is gone?
- John is referencing Ezekiel 47:12, where water flowing from the Temple produces trees with healing leaves. John is not implying that there will be illness in the new Earth, but emphasizing that the water of life produces health, and strength wherever it goes.
What do we think “No longer will there be a curse upon anything.” Means?
- This means just what it says, nothing will be cursed in God’s presence. This fulfills the prophecy in Zachariah (see Zechariah 14:11).
What do we think is significant where John was told not to seal up the prophetic words in this book?
- The angel tells John what to do after his vision, instead of sealing up what he has written, as Daniel was commanded to do (Daniel 12:4-12), the book is to be left open so that all can read and understand.
- Scholars believe that Daniel’s message was sealed because it was not a message for Daniels time. But the Book of Revelation was a message for John’s time and for us now today, in our present time.
- As Christ’s return gets closer, there is a greater polarization between God’s followers and Satan’s followers. We should read the Book of Revelation, hear its message, and be prepared at all times for Christ’s return.
What do we think is significant or important about those who wash their robes, eating the tree of life and those outside the city?
- Those that wash their robes are those who seek to purify themselves from sinful ways of living. They strive daily to remain faithful and ready for Christ’s return.
- In Eden, Adam and Eve were barred from eating from the Tree of Life, because of their sin. In the new Earth, God’s people will eat from the Tree of Life because their sins have been removed. Those who eat from the Tree of Life, will live forever.
- Jesus will exclude from the holy city those “who love to live a lie.” Today we see leaders who twist the truth to serve their purposes. Many people have lost the ability to distinguish what is true from what they wish was true. This statement also emphasizes God’s authority to welcome believers into eternal life and exclude those who choose to live a sinful life. By believing their own lies, people deceive themselves and cut themselves off from God.
As we experience the troubles and trials of each day, it can be difficult to keep eternity in mind. What can we do to keep our focus on Jesus and our desire to be with Jesus in Heaven?
What is significant about the statement not to remove any of the words from this book?
- It is important to remember that “the Book” is the Book of Revelation. We often think of the Bible as a book, but a truer description, would be a library of books.
- This warning is given to those who might purposefully distort the message of Revelation. Moses gave a similar waring in Deuteronomy 4:1-4.
- Even though the Bible is a library of books, and John’s warning was specific to Revelation, we should be quick to put the Bible’s principles into practice and handle the Bible with care and great respect so that we do not twist or distort its message (even unintentionally).
We do not know the day or the hour, but Jesus is coming soon and unexpectedly. This is good news to those who trust him, but a terrible message for those who have rejected Him.
- Soon, means “at any moment” and we must be ready and prepared for Jesus’ return.
The chapter closes with “May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s holy people.” These should be words of encouragement to believers. In a world full of problems, persecution, evil and immorality, Christ calls all of us to endure in our faith to Him!
Is there anything that stands out/jumped out to you? Share with the group and discuss.
Is there anything that left you with more questions? What were they? Share with the group, discuss, and research.
Biggest takeaway?

REMINDER: We are taking a break in June and July and will meet in August. Our next Men’s group meeting will be on Wednesday, 08/07/2024. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)
_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)
_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)
_X_ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)
_X_ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.
_X_ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.
_X_ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)
_X_ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)
_X_ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study May 22

May 21, 2024

Meeting# 8 (Chapters 19 & 20) | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

(Reminder to the leader, we’ve been running over timewise, try and start as close to 7:00 pm as possible.)

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)

2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)

3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)

4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)

5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)

6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Introduction: This is our eighth meeting of the Spring Semester for the Men’s “Called” Growth Group, next week (Wednesday, 05/29/2024) is our last meeting. As we’ve said throughout the semester everyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend. We’re taking a break in June and July, and will meet in August. Our next Men’s group meeting will be Wednesday, 08/07/2024. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

The Called Men’s Group is finishing up on its’ study of the Book of Revelation. The Book is a message of hope and warning for believers to repent from sin and begin to live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist demands of the Roman emperor to worship him, instead of God and The Book of Revelation now warns us in present-time to resist temptations of the modern world that seeks to pull our attention away from God and that we should remain focused on Christ.

As we’ve continually said thought out the series, God did not give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters; but to encourage us to spread the Good News and to tell others about Jesus. – We have been, and will continue to take this approach in our Bible study.

Quick review of last week (Revelation Ch. 17 and 18):

In Chapter 17, John sees the great prostitute of Babylon who was covered in purple and scarlet clothing, covered in beautiful jewelry made of gold and precious gems and pearls.
In Chapter 18, The great city of Babylon is destroyed and the merchants of the world wept and mourned for the loss of Babylon, for without the city of Babylon, there was no one left to buy their goods.

This Week’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight to study your word. Lord, we thank you for all you do for us, help us to remember that you are with us when times get difficult. Lord God, Our Father, we trust you and cling to you for protection from evil. Keep us far from temptation and help us to remain faithful to you. In Christ’s name - Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 19:1 – 20:15

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

If someone asked you why God allows evil in the world, how would you answer?
- Many believe that it comes down to free will. We will always be presented with a choice; without choice we would all be robots. Acts of love require a choice. Love cannot be genuine if it is forced. We have to choose to be obedient, we have to choose to love God and one-another.
- But with that understanding. If we all are given the opportunity to choose God, some will choose evil.
- We need to remember that love is sacrifice, we have to give-up our wants and desires; we don’t always get our way – there has to be compromise.
  - God so loved the world, He gave up his one and only Son.
  - Jesus so loved the world, He willingly went to the cross and died for us, for our sins, and to defeat death through the resurrection.
Chapter 19, begins with “After these things” so this marks a point in time after the destruction of Babylon and before the return of Christ, and the beginning verses refer to the celebration taking place just before Christ’s return.
- There are two celebrations: 1.) the destruction of the great prostitute and Babylon and 2.) the marriage supper; wedding feast of the Lamb.
- We see the 24 Elders mentioned again, who are believed to be those redeemed believers all throughout time, both Jews and Gentiles who are part of God’s family. The 24 Elders show us that all those redeemed will worship the Lord.
- Some Bible scholars believe that this is the culmination of human history – the judgement of the wicked and the wedding of the Lamb and his bride, which is the church – the faithful believers from all time. It is believed that the Bride’s clothing represent the good deeds of the believers, and stand in contrast to the prostitutes ostentatious (flashy, and showy) clothing.
- What is significant about the color white?
  - The fine white linen is often used as a symbol for spiritual cleanliness.
- The overarching theme of the vision is the ultimate victory of Christ. Agree/Disagree, Why?
- In 19:10, the Angel did not accept John’s homage and worship, saying that only God should be worshiped. What do we think this means or instructs believers how to act toward angels?
  - Why do we think John wanted to worship the angel?
  - As believers we can be in awe of angels and how the Lord uses them, however, angels are servants of God. Believers should not worship angels in place of God. Agree/Disagree, Why?
- Who is the rider on the white horse? Many Biblical scholars believe that this rider is Jesus, but no longer as the Lamb, but a warrior.
  - Jesus first came to us as the Lamb to be a sacrifice for our sin.
  - Jesus returns and brings judgement; God vs. evil.
  - Biblical scholars also believe that this symbolizes victory over evil.
- The rider’s name was “Faithful and True” and the “Word of God” on His thigh was written “King of all kings, and Lord of all lords. His name was written on Him that only He could understand. Why is this significant/what do we think this means?
  - Scholars believe that this implies that no title will do, no title will fully explain Him. That He is greater than any description or expression that human minds can understand.
- What do we think the symbolism of Jesus’ robe being dipped in blood?
  - White symbolizes sinless perfection, holiness, purity. Some Biblical scholars believe that this is looking back at Christ’s crucifixion; the death of the Lamb of God on our behalf for forgiveness of sin. Other scholars believe that the blood on Jesus’ robe represents the future battle and is the blood of the slaughter of evil which will take place in the final battle. What do we think?
- The end of chapter 19 summarizes the campaign of Armageddon which results in the beast, the false prophet being thrown into the lake of fire (fiery lake of burning sulfur) and their army being defeated.
  - Scholars note that the lake of fire is different than the bottomless pit mentioned in 9:1.
- Can you think of a time when God has protected you against evil? If you are willing share with the group.
- In our present time, what evil influences are you looking forward to being removed from the world?
In Chapter 20, the dragon is bound for 1,000 years.
The 1,000 years is often referred to as the “Millennium” which is Latin for 1,000. The millennium is widely debated among scholars, with three major positions on this “1,000 years”
- 1.) Postmillennialism -looks for literal 1,000 year period of peace on earth ushered in by the church. At the end of the 1,000 years, Satan will be unleashed again, but then Christ will return to defeat him and reign forever. Christ’s second coming will not take place until after the 1,000 year period.
- 2.) Premillennialism – this view also believes the 1,000 years as a literal period of time, but holds that Christ’s second coming initiates the 1,000 year reign and that this reign occurs before the final removal of Satan.
- 3.) Amillennialism – this view understands the 1,000 year period to be symbolic of the time between Christ’s ascension and His return. This Millennium is the reign of Christ in the hears of believers and His church. It is believed that this period will end with the second coming of Christ
- These different views about the Millennium (1,000 years) should not cause division and controversy in the church, because each view acknowledges what is most crucial to Christianity: Christ will return, Satan will be defeated, and Jesus reigns forever. Therefore, we should not allow the three varying opinions to divide us.
- I’ll offer up a fourth viewpoint. - Whatever and whenever, this happens, Jesus Christ will unite ALL believers. I openly declare and affirm that I reject all evil, I recognize and acknowledge that Jesus is my Lord and savior, that all good things come from God, Christ is my center and I place HIM above all things, I submit myself to Him, and His will.
 John does not say why Satan will be released for a while, but it is part of God’s plan to judging the world. Some believe that it is to expose those who rebel against God and confirm those who are truly faithful to God. Whatever the reason, Satan’s release results in the final destruction of all evil.

 There are two viewpoints on the first resurrection:

1.) Some believe that the first resurrection is spiritual, and that the Millennium is our spiritual reign with Christ between his first and second coming. During this time, we are priests of God because Christ reigns in our hearts. In this view the second resurrection is the bodily resurrection of all people for judgement.
2.) Others believe that the first resurrection occurs after Satan has been set aside. It is a physical resurrection of believers, who then reign with Christ on earth for a literal 1,000 years. The second resurrection occurs at the end of the Millennium in order to judge unbelievers who have died.
What is meant by the “Second Death”? what do we think this means?
- The second death is thought to refer to spiritual death – everlasting separation from God.
What is the significance of Gog and Magog? Do a quick google search and share with the group what you find.
- Gog and Magog may be symbolic for the nations from around the world that will gather one last time against the God’s people and Jerusalem.
- Gog and Magog may also symbolize all the evil forces that band together to battle God.
- Noah’s son Japheth had a son named Magog see Genisis 10:2
- Ezekiel presents Gog as a leader of forces against Israel, see Ezekiel 38-39.
After this fire from Heaven comes down and defeats the armies. Then Satan is also cast into the Lake of Fire joining the beast and the false prophet and be tormented forever and ever. – What do we think this means?
- Sata’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.
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 21:1 – 22:21
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.



REMINDER: We’re taking a break in June and July, and will meet in August. Our next Men’s group meeting will be on Wednesday, 08/07/2024. Please monitor https://fv.church/events for more information.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

_X_ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

_X_ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.

_X_ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.

_X_ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

_X_ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study May 15

May 15, 2024

Meeting# 7 (Chapters 17 & 18) | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

(Reminder to the leader, we’ve been running over timewise, try and start as close to 7:00 pm as possible.)

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)
2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)
3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)
4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)
5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)
6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Introduction:

This is our seventh meeting of the Spring Semester for the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Anyone is welcome to join; you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend, and we will continue meeting at 7:00pm through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024; we have two more meetings left in the semester).

The Called Men’s Group is conducting a study of the Book of Revelation. Which is a message of hope and warning for believers to repent from sin and begin to live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist demands to worship the Roman emperor and now warns us in present-time to resist temptations of the modern world that grabs our attention and pulls us away from God; that we should keep our focus on Christ.

As we’ve said before, God did not give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters; but to encourage us to tell others about Jesus. – We too are taking this approach for our Bible study.

Quick review of last week (Revelation Ch. 14, 15 and 16):

In Chapter 14, John sees three angles announcing the final judgment.
In Chapter 15 and 16, seven angels pour out God’s judgement on earth from seven bowls.

This Week’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight to study your word. Lord, we thank you for all you do for us, help us be good stewards of all your gifts - big and small, seen and unseen. Help us when we come to you with our needs; Lord we are grateful that we have the ability to resist temptation and avoid sin. Lord, we hold fast to you; may we continue to remain under your protection. Help us to remain focused on listening to your will and remain faithful to you. In Christ’s name - Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 17:1 – 18:24

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

What might we say to someone who says that God is too loving to punish the people and the world he created? – Share your thoughts with the group.
God is described in the Bible as a loving Father and wrathful in Revelation. How is it possible for God to be both? - Share your thoughts with the group.
In Chapter 17, the angel took John into the wilderness to see the prostitute sitting on a scarlet beast. She was wearing purple and scarlet clothing and beautiful jewelry made of gold and precious gems and pearls. On her forehead was written “Babylon the Great, Mother of all Prostitutes and Obscenities in the World.” Is there anything significant about this description or the name written on her forehead? - Discuss among the group.
- The clothing and jewelry may signify the allure of prosperity.
- The name may represent the lust of godless societies for sensual pleasure, the allure of a life with no regrets, restraints and the lie of no consequences.
- The statement that she became drunk on the blood of the saints and the beast on which she sits may align to the thought that cultures that openly defy God, there is often a relentless pursuit of wealth, pursuit of pleasure and an inappropriate desire for power and to control others.
- The desire and lust for power is Satan’s trap. This desire can turn us away from God. We need to be steadfast and worship only God and make it our desire to serve Him.
- It is important to distinguish there is nothing wrong with ambition, wanting more for one’s life, or working toward success (a business, career etc.), as long as these things are sought in prayer, obedience, and faithfulness to our Lord God. God gives us all manners of gifts, talents and abilities to further His Kingdom.
Are you walking in obedience, and using your gifts, talents and abilities? Discuss and if you are willing, share with the group.
What do we think it is about the woman that is so attractive? When we think of evil, something ugly or disgusting often comes to mind. How can evil appear to be attractive? Discuss among the group.
- Beauty and pleasure often cover the horrendous reality of evil. What evil in society has been made appealing with an attractive cover? Discuss. At the end of verse 17:8, the Book of Life is mentioned. What is the Book of Life? (See also Revelation 3:5)
- The Book of Life is the Book in which God records the names of everyone who is intended for Heaven and the world to come.
- Revelation refers to the Book of Life seven times (3:5, 13:8, 17:8, 20:12, 20:15, 21:27, 22:19). Only those whose names are written in the Book of Life (even before the creation of the world), and have not been blotted out by the Lamb, are saved at the Final Judgment. Which we’ll study about in a future meeting. “And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15, NLT)
In a dramatic turn of events, the prostitute’s allies turn on her, strip her naked, eat her flesh, burn and destroy her. Why do we think they turned against the woman?
- This is how evil operates. It is destructive by its very nature and uses and discards when others cease to serve its selfish purpose.
- There is allure to sin. On the surface it seems desirable, and exciting. But in reality it is destructive. In Chapter 18, the complete destruction of Babylon happens.
- “Babylon is fallen – that great city is fallen! She has become a home for demons.” - We discussed last week that Babylon was the name of an evil city and an immoral empire, a world center for idol worship. Many have tried to predict what country, city, ruling power or Government would be represented or associated with the name Babylon mentioned in Revelation (Chapters 14, 16, 17 and 18). The specific city, nation or geographical location is unknown, with some believing that Babylon is a literal rebuilt city of Babylon on the banks of the Euphrates River in modern-day Iraq. Others believe that it is a cryptic reference to Rome in John’s time, or Rome in the future.
What aspects of our society fit the description of Babylon?
- Throughout the Bible, Babylon represents a symbol of confusion caused by godlessness and worship of anyone, anything, or god; other than our One True God: Yahweh/Jehovah, Elohim, El Shaddai, Adoni, Christos; the Great I AM.
- Briefly go over the translations of the Biblical terms for God:
  - Yahweh – the four Hebrew letters YHWH, the exact meaning is uncertain, because the Jewish people considered the personal name of God so Holy that it should never be spoken aloud. Sometimes given in English as “Jehovah.” The meaning has also been interpreted as “I AM” or “He That Is.”
  - Elohim – Hebrew word often translated “God”, “God of Israel” or “The One True God.”
  - El Shaddai, Hebrew meaning “God Almighty”, or “God of the Wilderness”.
  - Adoni – Hebrew often translated as “my Lord” (also spelled Adony).
  - Christos – Greek word for “Christ” which meant “anointed” to designate the Messiah, the great Savior that God had promised to raise up.
- Identify (list) some of the world’s richest and most famous individuals. – Why are they well known?
- Did these people achieve their wealth and influence through following Christ? Or through other means like greed, ruthlessness or an unending desire for fame?
- Describe the most impressive city you have ever visited. Why was it impressive? Discuss and share with the group.
- In the first half of Chapter 18, the “Kings of the World” committed adultery with Babylon and because of desires for extravagant luxury, the merchants of the world grew rich. -We can infer that these merchants knew that they were sinning by selling their goods to an evil, godless city. But the merchant’s desire for money made them turn a blind-eye to sin.
In the second half of Chapter 18, the merchants weep and mourn for the destruction and loss of Babylon because there was no one left to buy their goods – the luxuries and splendor are gone forever.
- It is believed that merchants of Babylon grew rich by exploiting sinful pleasures of their society. With many people doing the same today - desires based on greed, money, and power.
- Like we’ve said before, there is nothing wrong with working hard or being successful, but not in the exploitation of others. We are to live according to the values Christ exemplified: service, giving, self-sacrifice, obedience, and truth. When we do something, we should do it well. People must always be more important than things (products). Keey away from pride, give the honor to God. God’s will and word must never be compromised. We should do what is right, no matter the cost, and is often at times the more difficult thing to do. Agree/Disagree, explain why.
- Consider how the various people react to the fall of Babylon. Why do they mourn? What do we think they miss most about Babylon?
- What has been God’s attitude toward Babylon? How does that explain His judgement?
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 19:1 – 20:15

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

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied from:

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/
NLT, Life Application Bible Studies, Revelation; copyright 1998, 2009, Tyndale House Publishers Inc, Carol Stream, Illinois.

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

_X_ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

_X_ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.

_X_ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.

_X_ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study May 8

May 8, 2024

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)

2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)

3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)

4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)

5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)

6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Introduction: This is our sixth meeting of the Spring Semester for the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend. We will continue meeting at 7:00 pm through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation. Revelation is a book of hope and warning forbelievers to repent from sin and begin to live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist demands to worship the Roman emperor and now warns us in present-time to resist temptations of the modern world that grabs our attention and pulls us away from God; that we should keep our focus on Christ.

As we’ve said before, God did not give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters; but to encourage us to tell others about Jesus. – Wetoo are taking this approach for our Bible study.

Quick review of last week (Revelation Ch. 11, 12 and 13):

In Chapter 11, John is commanded to measure the Temple of God. John sees two witnesses, who proclaim God’s judgement on the earth. The seventh trumpet sounds, calling the rival forces of good and evil to the final battle.
In Chapter 12, John sees the woman clothed with the Sun and Moon beneath her feet. John sees a red dragon, which represents Satan, then a war starts in heaven, one side Satan, and on the other side Jesus. Satan loses, Satan and his demons are cast out of heaven to earth. In Chapter 13, a beast comes out of the sea, the beast comes out of the earth, and everyone was required to receive the Mark of the Beast in order to buy or sell anything.

This Week’s Prayer:Heavenly Father, we come before you to honor you and offer our appreciation for remaining faithful to us, even when we fail you. Lord help us to remain faithful to you; courageous in telling others about the freedom that comes from following you. Father, you are sovereign, holy, and just. Give us the strength and ability to be a witness and give us the words to persuade others to surrender to you. - Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 14:1 – 16:21

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+14%3A1+-+16%3A21&version=NLT

Observation, Application & Questions:

• In Chapter 14, what does the Lamb represent?

Jesus, the Messiah.

• What is the significance of Mount Zion?

Mount Zion is a hill in Jerusalem, Israel, which is about 2,510 ft tall and is located outside the Old City's walls. It is the highest point in the Old City and is an extension of Temple Mount.
Mount Zion is not just an important historical and spiritual landmark for Israel. From the time the ark of the covenant was moved into the City of David, then later to the temple that Solomon built, Zion became a center of worship that represented the presence of God.
The word “Zion” has multiple meanings, and it is not just thehill in Jerusalem. Zion is a term for
"Holy Place" or "Kingdom of Heaven".
Many Biblical scholars believe that “Zion” mentioned in Chapter 14, represent more than just the mount or hill, but all of Jerusalem, which is the capital of Israel.
It is important to remember that the precious gift of God’spresence; The Holy Spirt is not just limited to those of Jewish descent. When we accept Christ as our savior we are graftedinto the inheritance of Zion as our place of refuge, protection, and communion with God.

• Chapter 14 also shows us what awaits believers who endure. It is believed that the 144,000 represent the believers who have endured persecution on earth and are now ready to enjoy the eternal benefits and blessings of being with God forever. Many Biblical scholars also believe that the 144,000 mentioned here are the same 144,000 previously mentioned in Revelations 7:4. Other Biblical scholars believe that although portrayed as celibate males, the 144,000 signify both male and female believers who dying in faith, are gathered as firstfruits for God, foreshadowing a greater harvest, their mouths told no lies, and resemble Jeus as blameless servants of the Lord.

• The three angels contrast the destiny of believers with that of unbelievers (complete separation of God). Some believe that the purpose of the angels is to be the final warning to unbelievers and to those who reject Christ. This way no one will have the excuse of never hearing God’s truth. Other scholars believe that this is an announcement of judgement rather than a call for warning and one last chance for repentance.

• Babylon was the name of an evil city and an immoral empire, a world center for idol worship. Many have tried to predict what country, city, ruling power or Government would be represented or associated with the name Babylon mentioned in Revelation (Chapters 14, 16, 17 and 18). What specific city, nation or geographical location is unknown. Some believe that Babylon is a literal rebuilt city of Babylon on the banks of the Euphrates River. Others believe that it is a cryptic reference to Rome in John’s time, or Rome in the future, or refers to Jerusalem as a city set against God – but scripture generally aligns Jerusalem with God and Babylon against Him. Throughout the Bible, Babylon represents a symbol of confusion caused by godlessness and worship of anyone, anything, or god; other than our One True God: Yahweh, Elohim, Adoni, Christos; the Great I AM. - What do we think Babylon represents?

• Those who worship the beast, accept his mark, and operate according to its world economic system and all who follow the beast will ultimately face God’s judgement. Our world, present, past and future, will value money, wealth, power and pleasure over God’s leadership and direction. To get what the world values many will deny God and violate basic Christian principles. The ultimate result of sin is separation from God. If someone chooses to live a life separate and independent from God, in the next life they will be separated from Him forever.
- Agree/Disagree? Explain why.

• Why does becoming a Christian or growing in our faith sometimes bring more conflict into a person’s life? - Discuss among the group.

• What is the source of comfort for those who have endured in faith throughout all the chaos? How does this give hope to present-day believers who are experiencing conflict? – Discuss.

• What are some areas of conflict in your life? Which of these can be reduced or resolved without diminishing your faith? - reflect on this, and if you are comfortable, share with the group.

• Does your faith make friends, neighbors, coworkers or relatives feel uncomfortable? Are any reflections of the great struggle of good against evil? - if you are comfortable, share with the group.

• What should Christians do to protect themselves from the opposition of the evil forces in this world?

• In what ways are we facing conflict with evil? What kind of reinforcements do we need to withstand the pressure? - Pray as a group for the Lord to keep everyone safe and far from evil. Pray for any individual needs as well.

• How can we help others endure and remain faithful? - Discuss.

• What is it about spiritual warfare that seems most real to us? - if comfortable, share with the group.

• Where do we see Satan’s anger unleashed against God’s people? - Discuss.

• In Chapter 15, Seven Angels hold seven plagues, which brings God’s wrath to completion. The plagues are poured out upon the earth.

The seven last plagues are also called the seven bowl judgments and begin in Chapter 16, unlike other plagues and judgments in the Book of Revelation, these end in the complete elimination of evil and the end of the world.

• What do we think is the significance of the singing of the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb?

The song celebrates Israel’s deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 15) and was sung after the Israelites sang after they were delivered from Egypt as they passed through the Red Sea. The song of the Lamb celebrates the ultimate deliverance of God’s people from the power of Satan. The songs also represent the believer’s anticipation of a future with the Lord.

• In Chapter 16, the bowl judgements are God’s final and complete judgements on the earth. The end has come. There are manysimilarities between the bowl judgements and the trumpets, except: the bowl judgements are complete not partial, the trumpets were a warning and allowed unbelievers to repent, but the bowl judgements do not, and people are directly attacked by the bowl judgements. - Discuss.

• The plagues bear some resemblance to the plagues of the book of Exodus. The brief description of the first six bowls may be intended to stress the importance of the seventh bowl. Quickly discuss the seven plagues; are there any that stand out to you? - Discuss with the group.

• Sinful people will unite to fight against God in a final display of rebellion. Many are already united against Christ and His people - We know that the people realize these judgements come from God, because they curse God for sending the plagues. But even after all the horrific events that occur in the judgments, they still refuse to recognize God’s authority and refuse to repent of their sins. Christians should not be surprised at the hostility and hardness of heart of unbelievers. Even when the power of God is fully and completely revealed, many will still refuse to repent. Why do we think this is? - Discuss

• Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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?

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., DateChapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

_X_ 004, 04/24Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

_X_ 005, 05/01Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.

_X_ 006, 05/08Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.

___ 007, 05/15Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

• Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Revelation 17:1 – 18:24

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+17%3A1+-+18%3A24&version=NLT

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

Comment

Bible Study May 1

May 1, 2024

Meeting# 5 (Chapters 11, 12 & 13) | This Week’s Leader: Lane Butt

(Reminder to the leader, we’ve been running over timewise, try and start as close to 7:00 pm as possible.)

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)
2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)
3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)
4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)
5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)
6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Introduction: This is our fifth meeting of the Spring Semester for the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have been at a previous meeting to attend. We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation. Which is a book of hope and warning to believers to repent from sin and live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist demands to worship the Roman emperor and now warns us in present-time to resist temptations of the modern world that pulls us away from God and that we should remain committed to Christ.

As we have said in previous meetings, God didn’t give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters, but to tell others about Jesus. - We too are taking this approach with this semester’s Bible Study.

Quick review of last week (Genisis Ch. 3 and Revelation Ch. 9 and 10):

In Genisis 3, the serpent lied to Adam and Eve and convinced them to doubt God’s instructions. The serpent made it sound like their life would be better by disobeying God; but it turned out worse. Sin separates us from God, and Adam and Eve no longer enjoyed the company of God in the same way after their sin. In Revelation: Chapter 9, the fifth trumpet announces the locusts who are representative of demons with the power to sting and torment non-believers.

The sixth trumpet announced the coming of an army of warriors on horses. In Chapter 10 an angel gives John a scroll to eat, it is sweet and bitter, meaning that God’s Word is sweet to believers because it brings encouragement. But it sours our stomach because of the coming judgement pronounced on unbelievers and those who reject God.

This Week’s Prayer: Father God, thank you for allowing us to come together tonight and study your word. Lord, help us to open our eyes to your truth and give us courage to share your Good News with others. Father keep us safe from persecution and help us to persevere and remain faithful to you. -Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 11:1 – 13:18

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

Reminder that trumpets have three purposes: to warn that judgment is certain; to announce the battle between the forces of good and evil; and to announce the return of the King, the Messiah, King Jesus. – These trumpets offer us a warning and urge us to make sure our faith is firmly fixed on Jesus.
The Temple in Chapter 11, is believed to be a symbol of the church, compromised by all true believers.
- It is believed that John measured the Temple to show that God was, and still is today, building walls of protection around his people, and that there is a place reserved for all believers who remain faithful.
- The two witnesses bear strong resemblance to Moses and Elijah, who are two of God’s mighty prophets. Moses called plagues down upon the nation of Egypt (Exodus 7-11); Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Both of these men appeared with Christ at his transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-7)
- Most biblical scholars believe that numbers in the book of Revelation are most likely symbolic, not necessarily literal meanings. The 1,260 days is 42 months, or 3.5 years – which is half of the perfect number 7, which represents completion. 3.5 can indicate that the work of the two witnesses is incomplete. Regardless, if the 3.5 years is symbolic or if it literally means 3.5 years; we can rest assured that evil’s reign will have a definite end.
How does the world react to the two witnesses in Chapter 11? What is it about God and His holiness that cause people to be uncomfortable and hate Him?
- The two witnesses are killed, and the people rejoice. Worldly non-believers love sin and hate God. When we speak out against evil and stand with God, the world hates us too. - Discuss.
- Do we think people of our time (modern day) would act any different? Why/Why not? – Discuss.
- God has chosen to use people to be his witnesses in the world. Consider the reaction of the people to the two witnesses. How to people react to when believers stand against evil or talk about Christ? – Discuss.
- When God points out sin our lives, how to we respond? - Discuss, if you are comfortable share a personal story with the group.
The ultimate goal of God’s saving plan is that everything in creation will glorify Him. Glory means splendor, radiance, and magnificence of God. It refers not only to God in his essential nature but to the effects of what God has accomplished. We glorify God because His glory is true and real, and we acknowledge His greatness. When we glorify God in our singing, our speaking and our way of living, we come closer to God. When we rebel, we become distant. Agree/Disagree. Why? Discuss.
- What are some ways we glorify God?
The seventh sounding of the trumpet announces the arrival of the King. The judgements are no longer partial but now are complete. God is in control, and He unleashes his full wrath on evil.
In Chapter 12, biblical scholars believe various things about what the woman represents. Some believe that this represents God’s faithful people who have been waiting for the Messiah, other biblical scholars believe the woman represents Mary, who gave birth to Jesus, who defeated death, and defeats Satan; others believe that the woman represents a symbolic representation of Israel. Being clothed with the sun, speaks of glory, dignity, and exalted status. The moon under her feet may possibly describe the covenant relationship with Israel. The Crown of 12 stars is believed to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. What do we think? – Discuss. Ultimately what the woman represents is unknown. We need to keep our focus on following Jesus and remain rooted in Him.
- The large red dragon represents Satan – seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. Some believe that these represent Satan’s power and the kingdoms of the world in which Satan rules. Many people have tried to predict and identify which specific monarchies, kingdoms, and governments Satan rules over.
The Serpent’s tail causes one-third of the stars in the sky to fall to earth, these stars are often believed to be the angels who fell with Satan and became Satan’s demons (fallen angels). According to Hebrew tradition, one-third of all angels in heaven fell with Satan. The imagery depicts the seductive power and influence of the dragon.
Many biblical scholars believe and agree that the Son in 12:5 represents Jesus. Satan wanted to kill the world’s savior.
- The wilderness represents a place of refuge and protection. Because God aided the woman’s escape into the wilderness. We can be sure that God will offer security to all true believers. Satan attacks God’s people, but God keeps them secure.
- The rest of the woman’s children mentioned in 12:17, represent all believers throughout the world who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus.
- It is important to remember that the devil is not a symbol or something of legend; he is very real. Originally Satan was an angel of God, but through his own pride, he became corrupt. Satan is God’s enemy, and Satan actively and consistently tries to hinder God’s work. Satan roams the earth like a prowling lion (1 Peter 5:8) and is looking to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10)
- Satan means “accuser” and he actively looks for people to attach (1 Peter 5:8,9). Satan like to pursue believers who are vulnerable in their faith, who are spiritually weak, or who are isolated from other believers.
- The critical blow to Satan came when the Lamb, Jesus Christ, shed his blood for our sins. The victory is won by His sacrifice – Christ’s death in our place to pay the penalty for our sin, and the sacrifices we make because out faith in Him. As we face the battle with Satan, we should not fear or try to escape; we should remain faithful, and loyally serve Christ, who will bring victory (Romans 8:34-39)
- We are in a spiritual battle and John says that the war is still being waged, but the outcome has already been determined. Satan and his followers have been defeated and will be destroyed. Nevertheless, Satan is battling God to bring more into his ranks. Those who belong to Christ have gone into battle on God’s side and He has guaranteed us victory. God will not lose the war against evil, but we must make certain not to give up or waver in our commitment to Christ.
 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.
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 14:1 – 16:21

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

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

_X_ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

_X_ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.

___ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.

___ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study April 24

April 24, 2024

Introduction: This is our fourth meeting for the Spring Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week.

We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation. The book of Revelation is a book of hope and warning to believers to repent and live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist the demands to worship the Roman emperor and now warns us in present-time to resist all the temptations of the modern world that can pull us away from God, and to be devoted to Christ.

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)

2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)

3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)

4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)

5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)

6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

As we have said in previous meetings, God didn’t give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters, but to tell others about Jesus. - We too are taking this approach with this semester’s Bible Study.

Before we dive into our study of Revelation tonight, my wife sent me a message that she found on Instagram Worship Blog: it said “Eve found the serpent more trustworthy than God, not because of the serpent’s credentials, but because the serpent said what Even wanted to hear “

Let’s look at Genesis 3:

The Man and Woman Sin

3 The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”

2 “Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. 3 “It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”

4 “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. 5 “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.”

What did the serpent do here?
- The serpent got Eve to doubt God’s commands. - Satan will attack us this way too – get us to doubt God’s word.

6 The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too.

Let’s start by identifying what the word “sin” means. What do you think “sin” means, discuss among the group.
- Sin literally means “missing the mark”; like an arrow missing its target. Sin is falling short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (NLT)
“The tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious” - Often times when we are tempted to sin, the sinwhatever it is, will appear beautiful and enticing. Agree/Disagree? Discuss.
Eve ate the fruit, then gave it to Adam, who was with her, and he ate the fruit too. Adam was there too!
- So not only was Eve fooled, but Adam was fooled too. Both Adam and Eve knew what God’s instructions were, Adam didn’t stop Eve or correct her. They both ignored what God had told them and chose to listen to the serpent instead, because they wanted more.
- God wasn’t trying to control Adam and Eve, He knew that the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil would bring nothing but suffering, loss and misery.
- Think of a loving parent, when they withhold something from a child, it’s not because the parent is being controlling, something is withheld because the parent is trying to protect the child. I’m sorry but no. – touching a hot stove is not a good idea. God does this for us too. If you pray for something and you aren’t getting it, it could be that what you are praying for isn’t good for you or won’t help you grow spiritually.

7 At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So, they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.

The moment Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s command, and ate the fruit (sinned), their eyes were opened.
- And they immediately felt shame at their nakedness.
- When we sin, we too almost always feel immediate humiliation and shame.
Adam and Eve sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.
- They sinned and then tried to fix their mistake themselves.

8 When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man [a] and his wife heard the Lord God walking about in the garden. So they hid from the Lord God among the trees.

Can you really hide from God?

9 Then the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” 11 “Who told you that you were naked?” the Lord God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” 12 The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it.” 13 Then the Lord God asked the woman, “What have you done?” “The serpent deceived me,” she replied. “That’s why I ate it.”

When God asks a question, is the question for God’s understanding or for our understanding?
Do we see what Adam and Eve did here? Adam first blamed Eve “it was the woman” then blamed God “the woman YOU gave me.” Eve then blamed the serpent. Both Adam and Even knew God’s commands but chose to be disobedient. They wanted to gain knowledge and must have though God was withholding from them.
- we too blame shift like Adam and Eve. When we make mistakes and sin, we often find excuses to explain away why the mistake couldn’t possibly our own fault.
- Rather than make excuses, take ownership of your mistake, admit fault, try to reconcile, learn from the mistake, and then try not make that same mistake again. Like Jesus said, “your sins are forgiven, go now and sin no more.”

Skip ahead to verse 21:

21 And the Lord God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife.

Adam and Eve tried to cover themselves with fig leaves.
God made clothing for Adam and Eve from animal skins.
- the first blood sacrifice to cover sin.

Think about this when we study the book of Revelation tonight: Sin has consequences – for the sinner and those around, connected to the sinner. Consider this anonymous quote “Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay.”

Now let’s move on to the book of Revelation:

Quick review of last week (Ch. 6, 7, & 8):

In Chapter 6, the first four seals are opened, and we learn about the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse. In Chapter 7, a vast crowd were worshiping and praising God and the Lamb. In Chapter 8 the seventh seal is opened, unveiling a series of God’s judgements announced by seven angels with seven trumpets.

This Week’s Prayer: Father, thank you for giving me victory over sin. Help me to rest in assurance of my salvation. Father, you answer my prayers in your will and timing. Lord help me to accept that you always do what is best for me. Help me accept the things I cannot change, to change the things I can and the courage and wisdom to know the difference -Amen.

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 9:1 – 10:11

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

Reminder that trumpets have three purposes: to warn that judgment is certain; to announce the battle between the forces of good and evil; and to announce the return of the King, the Messiah, King Jesus. – These trumpets offer us a warning and urge us to make sure our faith is firmly fixed on Jesus.
In Chapter 9, a star fell to earth, and was given the key to the bottomless pit.
- It is not known whether this “star” that fell from the sky (some translations say Heaven) was Satan, a fallen angel, Christ, or a good angel. Biblical scholars are divided. Some believe that this is most likely a good angel or Jesus that fell, because the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit is normally held by Christ (1:17, 18); others believe that the star fallen from heaven is Satan, whom Jesus saw fall like lighting as a result of his disciples ministry (Luke 10:17-20, read Luke and discuss).
- In either scenario if the star that fell was an angel or Satan, they were given the keys to the shaft of the bottomless pit, which indicates that whoever they are, they are under God’s control and authority.
- The bottomless pit, also known as the abyss or the underworld (which is also mentioned in 9:11) represents the final destination of demons and Satan – see also Luke 8:31: “The demons kept begging Jesus not to send them into the bottomless pit (the Abyss)”. Why do we think this is? – Discuss.
In the Old Testament, locusts were symbols of destruction, because they destroyed crops and vegetation. Here in Chapter 9, the locusts symbolize an invasion of demons, which would torture non-believers in God. The limitations put on the demons were to only torment people for five months.
- Do we think the limitations to only torment, and not kill people is significant? Why? - Discuss
  - Some biblical scholars believe that the limitations indicate that these demons were under God’s authority, because the demons, the fallen angels’ main purpose is to prevent, distort or destroy people’s relationship with God. The demons are corrupt and wicked, their appearance reflects the distortion of their evil spirt.
- While it is important that we recognize and understand the locust/demon’s evil activity - so we can stay away from them, but at the same time, we must avoid curiosity about or involvement with demonic forces or with the occult. Agree/Disagree, discuss and explain why.
In the second terror, the people who did not die, were so hard-hearted that even the plagues did not convince them to turn to God.
- What does this tell us about people in the end-times?
- How is this different from people today in our time?
It is important to remember that people don’t usually fall into sin and evil suddenly – typically they slip into sinful behavior gradually, a little bit at a time - until they have hardly realized what has happened and stuck in their evil ways.
- Unrebuked temptation today, can become sin tomorrow. Agree/Disagree – Discuss.
In Chapter 10 the purpose of the mighty angel is clear – to announce the final judgements on earth.
- Some biblical scholars believe that the right foot on the sea, and the left foot on the land indicate that angel’s words deal with all creation, not just a limited part as did the seal and trumpet judgements.
- The powerful angel also conveys high rank and authority from God by straddling the land and sea. The huge size contracts with the smallness of God’s enemies.
  - When things are going badly in our lives, we need to remember that this angel represents the kind of power that is on our side. God’s angelic forces are with us! – Discuss among the group.
Jesus told his disciples that the time of the end is known only by the Father. (Mark 13:32 - 37, see also Matthew 24:23 - 51)
By saying that “God’s mysterious plan will be fulfilled.” John was pointing to God’s removal of all evil and the final exaltation of Christ as Lord. For God’s chosen people this would be a message of hope and peace, for God’s enemies, this would bring fear.
- Do we long for Christ’s return and pray for God’s justice to be carried out and his plan fulfilled?
- Do we hope and long for God and his people to be vindicated?
In Chapter 10: 9 the angel tells John to eat the scroll. It will be sweet in your mouth, but sour in your stomach. Sounds odd doesn’t it? Do we know why this is significant?
- The eating of the scroll is similar to a vision of the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 2:8 – 3:4). It is sweet because of its divine origin but bitter because of the impending judgement.
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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?

Read all of Genisis 3.
Research: Why is the list of tribes of Israel in Revelation different from other places in the Bible?
Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Revelation 11:1 – 13:18
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss at the next meeting.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

_X_ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

___ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses) – Lane to lead the meeting.

___ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses) – Tom to lead the meeting.

___ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study April 17

April 17, 2024

Introduction:

This is our third meeting for the Spring Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week.

We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation. The book of Revelation is a book of hope and warning to urge believers to examine themselves, repent and live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the seven churches to resist the demands to worship the Roman emperor and now warns us in present-time to resist the temptations that pull us away from God, and that all of God’s faithful people should only be devoted to Christ.

As we have said in previous meetings, God didn’t give us the book of Revelation to build bomb shelters in our back yard. He gave us the book so that we’d be motivated to tell others about Jesus. - We too are taking this approach with this semester’s Bible Study.

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)

2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)

3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)

4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)

5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)

6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Quick review of last week:

In Chapters 2 and 3, Jesus gives special messages to the seven churches. In Chapter 4, John was caught up into heaven and sees a vision of all the followers of Christ and angels worshiping God. In Chapter 5, John watches as God gives a scroll with seven seals to Jesus, who is the only one worthy to open the scroll. Jesus opens the scroll and breaks the seals one by one. When each seal is opened a new vision appears.

This Week’s Prayer: Father, you are holy and righteous judge. Help me to share your truth with others so they too will surrender to you and be saved. Thank you for giving me victory over sin. You answer prayers in your will and timing. Please help me to accept the things I cannot change, and courage to change the things I can. Thank you Lord, for giving us hope and eternal victory through Jesus. -Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 6:1 – 8:13

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

In Chapter 6, four horses appear as the first four seals are opened.
- What were the colors of the four horses? White, red, black and a pale horse, some translations say pale green.
- What do we think the colors represent? Discuss among the group (see below).
Some say that the white horse represents victory and that its rider must be Christ (because Christ later rides to victory on a white horse in Rev 19:11.), some believe that since the other three horses are related to God’s judgement and destruction, that the rider most likely would not have been Christ. But throughout the Book of Revelation Jesus is dressed in White, as white represents purity. So maybe the rider could be Jesus. What do we think? – discuss.
Some believe that red represents warfare and bloodshed. What do we think? – discuss.
Some believe that black for famine. What do we think? – discuss.
Some believe that the pale color/pale green represents death. What do we think? – discuss.
- What are these four horses and riders in Chapter 6 commonly referred to? - The four horsemen of the Apocalypse.
There are two groups of people identified in Chapter 6 and 7 – those who do not belong to God, Chapter 6 (6:15-17) and those who belong to the Lord in Chapter 7 (7:3-10). What is the difference in these two group’s reactions to everything that God has been doing? Discuss.
In Chapter 7, the number 144,000 is mentioned. What do we think this number represents? - some believe that this number symbolizes completeness. - I believe the 144,000 to be a figurative number, and not an exact, or specific number of believers, and a that the number is a reminder that ALL God’s followers will be brought safely to Him, no one will be overlooked or forgotten. God seals these believers with either withdrawing them from the earth – the rapture; or by providing special strength and courage to endure the time of great persecution; to remain true despite having to undergo intense persecution. When the persecution begins, the faithful will have the seal placed upon them (marked by God) and will remain true to God until the end. Agree/Disagree – Discuss.
In Chapter 7 (7:9) John sees a “vast crowd.” Who do we think the crowd represents?
- - Some believe that the crowd represents the martyrs described in 6:9. - Some believe that the crowd is the same 144,000 mentioned in 7:4-8. The 144,000 were sealed and marked by God before the great time of persecution; the vast crowd was brought to eternal life as God had promised; before they were being prepared, now they are victorious.
- - Another point of view is that the crowd in heaven represents all those who remained faithful to God throughout the generations, and that no believer needs to worry; that God includes and protects each of us, and we are guaranteed a place in His presence through our faith in Jesus.
- - What do you believe, discuss among the group.
In 7:14 “the great tribulation” has been explained in several ways.
- - Some believe that this refers to the suffering of believers throughout all of history.
- - Some believe that that this is a specific time of intense tribulation that will take place in the future.
- - Either way, the believers come through their times of suffering by remaining in God. Because of their faithfulness, God will give them eternal life with Him (7:17).
It is often said that suffering has a purifying effect. Can you give any examples of suffering that purified your faith? - Take a moment to reflect. If you are comfortable, share with the group and discuss.
If it became illegal to be Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? In other words, do you think it is obvious you are a follower of Christ? - Think about your home, your behavior, what you post on social media. – Discuss among the group.
In Chapter 8, when the Lamb broke the seventh seal on the scroll there was silence throughout heaven for half an hour. What do you think the significance of the silence was? - Discuss.
- We should seek God in times of silence, it is proper for us to take a moment to be still; to be quiet and honor God. To recognize His Power and His Authority. We can trust and have confidence in God. Agree/Disagree – Discuss.
In Chapter 8 there are trumpet blasts. What is the significance of the trumpets?
- Trumpets have three purposes: to warn that judgment is certain; to announce the battle between the forces of good and evil; and to announce the return of the King, the Messiah, King Jesus. – These trumpets offer us a warning and urge us to make sure our faith is firmly fixed on Jesus. – Discuss.
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 9:1 – 10:11
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss at the next meeting.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

_X_ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

___ 004, 04/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

___ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses)

___ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses)

___ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study April 10

April 10, 2024

Introduction:

This is our second meeting for the Spring Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week.

We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation. We are using the SOAP method of Bible study, which is a systematic way to look deeper into Scripture and find more than if one were to just read the scripture. The word “SOAP” is an acronym for: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer (and I’ve added Questions).

A friend sent me a message that said: “God did not give us the book of Revelation, so we’d build bomb shelters in the back yard. He gave us the book so that we’d build bigger dinner tables and invite our friends over and tell them about Jesus.” - we too will take this same approach.

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

Introduction (1:1-8)
Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)
Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)
Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)
Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)
Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

The book of Revelation is a book of hope. The apostle John who was an eyewitness of Jesus, proclaimed of His return.

The Book is also a warning; things were not as they should have been in the churches, so Christ called the members to examine themselves, repent and live righteously. John also wrote the Book to encourage the churches to resist the demands to worship the Roman emperor. He warns us all that God’s faithful people should only be devoted to Christ. Revelation identifies who the faithful people are and what they should be doing until Christ returns.

Quick review of last week:

In Chapter 1, John relates the circumstances that led to the writing of the book; in Chapter 2 (and also Chapter 3 which we’ll study this week), Jesus gives special messages to the seven churches.

This Week’s Prayer: Oh, Lord, thank you for giving us this time to come together and read your word. Father, you have written out names in the Book of life. Give us the willpower and courage to love, honor, and obey you faithfully.

Help us to always praise you with great reverence and respect. May your Kingdom come soon, may your will be done on earth, as it is in Heaven. Thank you Lord, for giving us hope and eternal victory through Jesus. -Amen

Scripture:

Read - Revelation Chapters 3:1 – 5:14

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

While many people in the church of Sardis were leading impure lives, believers in Philadelphia obeyed God faithfully, Christ followers in Laodicea, on the other hand, were wrapped up in Roman society and not fully committed to Jesus. Therefore, Jesus urged the unfaithful to repent and return to Him. Obedient believers were called to continue to persevere, and He commanded lukewarm, spiritually sick Christians to change. Agree/Disagree?
The problem in the Sardis church was not heresy but spiritual death. In spite of its reputation for being active, Sardis was infested with sin. Its deeds were evil, and its clothes soiled. The Spirt has no words of commendation for the church that looked so good on the outside but was so corrupt on the inside. And even though Christ called Sardis a dead church, he also affirmed the handful of people who were faithful believers. Christ loves to defeat death. Make sure that we preserve our faithfulness. In times of doubt or struggle, Pray for God to intervene. Also ask God to help you find other believers who will walk with you and encourage you through your time of struggle. Agree/Disagree?
The church at Sardis was urged to go back to what they first heard and believed to get back to the basics of the faith. It is important to grow in our knowledge of the Lord. To deepen our understanding through careful study. But no matter how much we learn, we must never abandon the basics truths. Agree/Disagree?
- Some of the churches had accommodated themselves to the sin around them. How do Christians often rationalize their own weaknesses, failings and shortcomings? Discuss.
- How do our actions affect the failures or success of others?
Christ gives each church a strong message, with many of the churches being influenced by their culture and falling into indifference to following Christ, experimenting in immorality and following false teachers.
- Think about and identify influences in popular culture that affect us the most. (Television, Movies, Sports, social media etc.) How do these influences affect our relationship with Jesus? Discuss.
- It is easy to think of a church as just a building, but the building is just four walls and a roof, the church is us – the people. Agree/Disagree?
- With this understanding, the lessons for the seven churches also apply to us. Agree/Disagree?
- Love and purity are two major themes, why is it important to keep these two connected? Discuss.
- What causes believers to fall away from God? Discuss.
- How are Christians tempted to cut corners in ethics and morality? Discuss
- What are some temptations Christians might face?
- What steps can we take to avoid impurity or help us deal with it effectively?
- Of all the potential dangers identified in these churches, which stands out to you most?
Chapters 4 and 5 record glimpses into Christ’s Glory. Here we see into the throne room of heaven. God is on the throne and orchestrating all the events that John will record. This world is not spinning out of control the God of creation will carry out his plans as Christ initiates the final battle with the forces of evil. John shows us heaven before showing us earth so that we will not be frightened by future events. Agree/Disagree?
Four times in the Book of Revelation John says he was “in the spirit” what do we think this expression means? Discuss.
- The expression means that the Holy Spirt was giving John the vision – showing him situations and events he could not have seen with mere human sight.
In John’s time, books were written on scrolls – pieces of papyrus or vellum up to 30 feet long, rolled and sealed with clay or wax. The scroll that John sees contains the full account of what God has in store for the world. The seven seals indicate the importance of its contents. The seals are located throughout the scroll so that as each one is broken, more of the scroll can be read to reveal another phase of God’s plan for the end of the world, and only Christ is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll. Agree/Disagree?
Jesus is described as both a Lion, symbolizing His authority and power, and a Lamb, symbolizing His submission to God’s will. When one of the elders calls John to look at the Lion, he sees a Lamb. Christ the Lamb was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all; therefore, only He can save us from the terrible events revealed in the scroll. Christ dying on the cross – He defeated all the forces of evil. Christ the Lion will lead the battle where Satan is finally defeated. We will participate in His victory, not because of our effort or goodness, but because he has promised eternal like to all who believe in Him.
In chapter 4 it is obvious that God’s authority is absolute, in Chapter 5, the attention shifts to Jesus. What does this say about Christs place in our life and our world? Discuss.
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 6:1 – 8:13
Is there anything that stands out when reading these verses? Be ready to discuss at the next meeting.

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

_X_ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

___ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

___ 004, 02/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

___ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses)

___ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses)

___ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study April 3

April 3, 2024

Introduction:

This is our first meeting for the Spring Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Friendly reminder that anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week.

We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting through the end of May 2024 (05/29/2024).

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Revelation.

A friend sent me a message that said: “God did not give us the book of Revelation, so we’d build bomb shelters in the back yard. He gave us the book so that we’d build bigger dinner tables and invite our friends over and tell them about Jesus.” - we too will take this same approach. Studying the book of Revelation is not about figuring out when the second coming of Christ will be. Jesus instructed us to always be ready and standing by. Only the Father knows the day and hour. The book of Revelation is a warning to believers who were tempted to compromise their faith, as well as a comfort to those who are experiencing great trials. Revelation reminds us that victory over the powers of evil has already been won at the cross. It is not a checklist of world events that must take place before Jesus can return.

Revelation is intended to give believers confidence in the salvation of our God. It gives us incredible encouragement to live courageous and confident lives no matter what we face in the present or what we may encounter in the future.

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

1. Introduction (1:1-8)

2. Vision of Jesus (1:9-20)

3. Message to the Seven Churches (2:1-3:22)

4. Visions of the seven-sealed scroll, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (4:1-19:10)

5. Vision of the return of Christ and the fulfillment of this age (19:11-20:15)

6. Vision of the new heaven, the new earth, and the new Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)

Revelation begins with three introductions: (1) the visionary nature of the book. (2) a blessing from the father, the Holy Spirt, and Jesus Christ, and (3) the account of John’s visionary experience on the island of Patmos. John also gives readers an awe-inspiring description of Jesus Christ, our risen and living Lord.

This Week’s Prayer: Oh, gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to come together tonight to study your word. Dear Lord, help us to rest in your assurance that no matter how difficult this life becomes, you will always prevail. Thank you Lord, for giving us hope and assurance amid every circumstance. Help us to remain passionately faithful to you. -Amen

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 1:1 – 2:29

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

The introduction of Revelation describes the book as apocalyptic literature. What does than mean, and why would this type of book be difficult for people to understand?
The word apocalyptic means “unveiling, disclosure, or revelation.” What is being unveiled, and why is it important that God is the one who takes the initiative in doing this?
 In Revelation 1:12 and 1:13, what do the seven lampstands represent? - The seven churches, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. The seven churches were located on a major Roman road. Letter carriers would leave the island of Patmos (where John was exiled) arriving first at Ephesus, then travel north to Smyrna and Pergamum. Then turn southeast to Thyatira, and continue on to Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.
Scripture says “I Am the alpha and the Omega” - what does this mean?
- The first and the last letter in the Greek alphabet. – The Lord is the beginning and the end. God the Father is the eternal Lord and Ruler of the past, present and future. We should honor the one who is the beginning and end of all existence, wisdom and power. Agree/Disagree?
This book brings a message of warning and hope to those undergoing persecution, being stretched in their faith, or wondering if the battle against the evil in this world really will be won.
- Revelation warns those who would take God for granted and neglect their faith. Agree/Disagree.
How does God warn people? (Today in present time.)
What is God warning Christians about? (Today, present time.)
Imagine we learned that God was going to stop warning us about evil and start executing judgment.
- What would you do? Or
- What would you start doing differently?
Has God ever given you a warning? How has that affected the direction of your life?
Suppose you were to introduce Jesus Christ to a group.
- What would you say about him?
- What would you include in your description of Him?
What are some names you can think of that the Bible gives to Jesus Christ?
- What does each name reveal about Jesus?
How does Jesus make His presence known/felt in your life? Share with the group.
Which of Jesus’ titles mentioned is most meaningful to you?
- Which do you most need to keep in mind?
How do we genuinely celebrate Christ’s majesty and sacrificial love? How do we go about worshiping Him?
What changes should we make to better praise and worship Jesus?
This world is forever tempting Christians to compromise their faith, compromise their boundaries with people, places and things that seek to lure them away from being Obedient to God’s will.
- Agree/Disagree?
- Think about some of the people, places and things in our lives that interfere with our relationship with Jesus. What are these things that pull us away from our faith? Share with the group and discuss.
- What are some ways we can overcome those obstacles?
Is there anything that stands out/jumped 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: Revelation 3:1 – 5:14

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

References/Acknowledgements:

Elements of today’s Bible study were copied 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/

Schedule:

Meeting No., Date Chapters (Total Verses)

_X_ 001, 04/03 Ch. 1 & 2. (49 Verses)

___ 002, 04/10 Ch. 3, 4 & 5. (48 Verses)

___ 003, 04/17 Ch. 6, 7, & 8. (47 Verses)

___ 004, 02/24 Ch. 9, & 10. (31 Verses)

___ 005, 05/01 Ch. 11, 12, & 13. (47 Verses)

___ 006, 05/08 Ch. 14, 15, & 16. (49 Verses)

___ 007, 05/15 Ch. 17, & 18. (42 Verses)

___ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)

___ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Comment

Bible Study Feb 28

April 3, 2024

Introduction:

This is our eighth and final meeting for the Winter Semester. Anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week. We meet at 7:00 pm on Wednesday February 28th, 2024. Reminder this is the last meeting for the Winter Semester - We will not be meeting in the month of March 2024.

Please visit FV.Church/Events for more information about next semester beginning in April.

Tonight, Called Men’s Group is finishing up our Bible study of the Book of Romans. A letter from the apostle Paul to the Roman churches. Paul’s letter to the Roman churches focuses on the doctrine of salvation, which is given to believers through Jesus Christ. Paul’s purpose in writing the letter was to share spiritual strength and provide encouragement to the believers in Rome. Now Paul’s letter shares spiritual strength and gives encouragement to us all.

UPCOMING MEN’S CONFERENCE:

Freedom Life Church, Main Campus, 447 Noble Road, Christiana, PA 17509

(About 1 hour 30 - 45 minutes from FV Church)

Friday, March 15, 2024 (6:00-9:00 pm, dinner included) – Saturday, March 16, 2024 (8:00-12 noon; breakfast included)

$30 General Admission: https://www.freedom.life/upcoming-events/mens-conference

Preplanning, to discuss again at this week’s meeting (02/28/2024):

Fri: We will meet at FV Church at 3:00 pm Friday, Depart FV at 3:15 pm.

(Arrive at Freedom Life Church, around 5:45 pm). (Depart FLC at 9:00 pm, arrive FVC 11:00 pm)

Sat: We will meet at FV Church at 6:00 am Saturday, Depart FV at 6:15 am.

(Arrive at Freedom Life Church, around 8:05 am). (Depart FLC at noon, arrive FVC 2:20 pm)

Scripture:

Read - Romans Chapters 15:1 – 16:27

Observation: Identify/Discuss Among the Group

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 stand out, or something that surprised you? What was it?
Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you? What were they?

Application & Questions: Identify/Discuss Among the Group

How should we apply the message to our lives?
Was there anything in the scripture that indicates how we should change our current behavior or actions?
What does the scripture show/indicate to you about people (both believers and non-believers)?
Was there anything in the chapters that left you with more questions?
- If yes, research your questions/discuss with the group.
- Was there anything in the passage that jumped out to you?
What do you think the overall message was?
Biggest takeaway?

Comment

CALLED Assignment Page

Weekly Wednesdays: CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Philippians can be divided into four sections:

Introduction:

This Week’s Prayer:

Scripture:

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

References/Acknowledgements:

Schedule:

Scripture: Read - Philippians Chapter 2:1 – 30

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

References/Acknowledgements:

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

Introduction:

This Week’s Prayer:

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 21:1 – 22:21

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

References/Acknowledgements:

Schedule:

Meeting# 7 (Chapters 17 & 18) | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno

Introduction:

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 17:1 – 18:24

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

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 11:1 – 13:18

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

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 9:1 – 10:11

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

Introduction:

Introduction:

Scripture:

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

Assignment:

References/Acknowledgements:

Schedule:

Introduction:

Revelation can be divided into six sections:

Scripture: Read - Revelation Chapters 1:1 – 2:29

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

Prepare for next week’s meeting. Read: Revelation 3:1 – 5:14

References/Acknowledgements:

Introduction:

UPCOMING MEN’S CONFERENCE:

Scripture:

Application & Questions: Identify/Discuss Among the Group

Weekly Wednesdays:
CALLED Men’s Group | Wednesday, September 18, 2024