Bible Study May 29

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/

2. 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)
_X_ 008, 05/22 Ch. 19, & 20. (40 Verses)
_X_ 009, 05/29 Ch. 21, & 22. (48 Verses)

Bible Study May 22

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/

2. 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)

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

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

Bible Study May 15

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:

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

2. 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)

Bible Study May 8

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/

2. 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.

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

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

___ 009, 05/29​​Ch. 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.

Bible Study May 1

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/

2. 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.

___ 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)

Bible Study April 24

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/

2. 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)

___ 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)

Bible Study April 17

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/

2. 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)

___ 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)

Bible Study April 10

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:

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)

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/

2. 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)

___ 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)

Bible Study April 3

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/

2. 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)

___ 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)

Bible Study Feb 28

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?

Bible Study Feb 21

Introduction:

This is our seventh meeting for the Winter 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 February (Feb. 28 th , 2024). We will not be meeting in the month of March 2024, stay tuned for more information about the next semester.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, which is a letter from the apostle Paul to the Roman churches. Paul’s letter 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 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 at this week’s meeting (02/21/2024):

Fri: We could possibly 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 could possibly 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)

This Week’s Thought-of-the-Day 1 :

Does What I think Really Matter? (Ronnie Littleton)

Pause for just a moment and try to not think. Keep trying. It appears to be impossible to stop thinking, doesn’t it? Thinking is a necessary and unavoidable part of life. Not only that, our thoughts actually shape who we are, what we believe, what we do, and how we treat others. If our thoughts are this powerful, it seems obvious that we should avoid incorrect thoughts, for incorrect thoughts will lead to problems as we make decisions and form opinions based on bad information. On the other hand, correct thoughts will lead to good outcomes. This is why the Apostle Paul commands believers to transform their thinking. (Romans 12:2)

( 1 Commentary copied from the Apologetics Study Bible for Students; Holman Bible Publishers, page 1215.)

Scripture:

Read - Romans Chapters 13:1 – 14:23

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?

• Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

• Read: Romans Chapters 15:1 – 16:27

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



Friendly Reminder: Next week (02/28/2024) is our last meeting of the semester. Stay tuned for more information and visit FV.chruch/events for more information about the upcoming spring Semester beginning in April.

References/Acknowledgements:

1. Apologetics Study Bible for Students; Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, copyright 2009, Holman

Christian Standard Bible (HCSB, now known as the Christian Standard Bible - CSB).

https://csbible.com/bible-search-tool/bibles/9781433651151/

Bible Study Feb 14

Introduction:

This is our sixth meeting for the Winter Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week. We will meet at 7:00 pm and continue meeting EVERY Wednesday night, through the end of February (Feb. 28 th , 2024). We will not be meeting the month of March 2024, stay tuned for more information about the next semester.

This semester, Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, which is a letter from the apostle Paul to the Roman churches. Paul’s letter 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.

This Week’s Thought-of-the-Day:

What good is a dull rusty knife? A dull knife cannot cut food, and a rusty knife is not something we want to use - we don’t want rust in our food. So, what good is a dull rusty knife? Read Matthew 5:13-16

Matthew 5:13-16:

13  “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

14  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.  15  No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.  16  In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Just like in Matthew 5, salt that loses its flavor is worthless; a dull rusty knife has no purpose, it either gets thrown out, or needs to be cleaned and sharpened to be useful.

We need to be mindful and check ourselves occasionally to make sure that we are not allowing ourselves to become dull and rusty. We continually need to clean and sharpen ourselves: spiritually, morally, and physically.

Scripture: Read - Romans Chapters 11:1 – 12:21

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?

• Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

• Read: Romans Chapters 13:1 – 14:23

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

Additional Information on This Week’s Thought-of-The-Day:

Google Search: spiritually, morally, and physically

Here’s some information about spirituality, morality, and physical discipline:

• Spirituality: A personal exploration that involves knowing that life has significance beyond biological needs. It can also mean having faith and belief in a Supreme Being. Spiritualists believe that spirit has a unique life that is not reducible to the body or the laws of physics.

• Morality: Can refer to matters of truth in moral life that shape character formation in relation to fellow human beings. Moral education is the source of spiritual equilibrium.

• Physical discipline: Lays emphasis on acts of service and charity.

Bible Study Feb 7

Introduction:

This is our fifth meeting for the Winter Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. 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 EVERY Wednesday night, through the end of February (Feb. 28 th , 2024). Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, a letter written by the apostle Paul to the Roman churches. Paul’s letter 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.

How can a person get into Heaven? – Eric Johnson: 1

Except for Christianity, all religions teach that there are certain works we must do to get into heaven. Muslims are obligated to follow the Five Pillars of Faith; Mormons must get married in one of their church’s temples. Buddhists meditate, while Jehovah’s Witness share their faith door to door. In effect, followers of these and other religions ask, “what must I do for my salvation?” The Christian asks a much different question: “What did God do for my salvation?”

The idea that salvation is a gift that comes by grace through faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9) is so radical that many religious people cannot accept it. We can sum up the Christian teaching in ten words:

God loves. A favorite verse of many Christians is John 3:16, which begins with “For God so loved the world.” God’s love is the motivating factor in how He deals with humanity.

Humans sinned. The Bible says that Adam and Eve introduced sin into the world by rebelling against God’s will (Romans 5:12-18). As a consequence, “death spread to all men, because all sinned” (Romans 5:12)

Jesus died. Jesus Christ came to this world with one purpose: to die in our place and be raised back to life again. Romans 5:8 says, “But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!”

We believe. “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation” (Romans 10:9-10)

God Forgives. When we enter relationship with God through faith, our sins are washed away. Isaiah 1:18 says, “Through your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow.” This cleansing comes through the blood of Jesus, which brings “forgiveness of our trespasses” (Ephesians 1:7)

We cannot be saved by our works, for salvation is not like earning a paycheck, and our debt is too great to pay off by our efforts. As Romans 4:6 puts it, “God credits righteousness…apart from works.” Imagine a grandfather who told his young grandson that he was depositing “10” into the bank under the boy’s name. The boy didn’t think anything of it until he decided to withdraw his money. Imagine his shock when the teller gave him the requested $10 and then said his remaining balance was $9,999,990! He thought he had just ten measly dollars in the account, but the grandfather had actually sacrificed everything to give him $10 million. Would the boy tell the teller that he’d earned that money? Of course not! The money was given as a gift, not a payment.

Jesus’ sacrifice allows us to enjoy eternal benefits. It’s ours for the asking. Just confess your sins and your need for salvation, and then invite Jesus to be your Savior. If you haven’t already done this, today is the day! Tell your pastor or Christian friend – they would love to help you.

( 1 Commentary copied from the Apologetics Study Bible for Students; Holman Bible Publishers, page 1206.)

Scripture:

Read - Romans Chapters 9:1 – 10:21

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?

• Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

•  Read: Romans Chapters 11:1 – 12:21

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

References/Acknowledgements:

1. Apologetics Study Bible for Students; Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, copyright 2009, Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB, now known as the Christian Standard Bible - CSB). https://csbible.com/bible-search-tool/bibles/9781433651151/

Bible Study Jan 31

Introduction: 

This is our fourth meeting for the Winter Semester of 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 join this week.  We meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting EVERY Wednesday night, through the end of February (Feb. 28th, 2024). 

Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, which was a letter written by the apostle Paul.  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.

Message of Paul’s letter to the Romans: 1 Four themes occur repeatedly in Paul’s letters.  

First, God (through Jesus Christ) has intervened in his fallen world to make things right again, Jesus’ death and resurrection usher in “the last days” that the Old Testament prophets anticipated.  This time period will be brought to its climax when he returns. 

  Second, God offers sinful humans being the opportunity to be reconciled with him through Christ.  People whose sin and rebellion have estranged them from God can be reconciled to him and declared righteous by believing Jesus Christ.

Third, the Good Nes is for all kinds of people.  Even though God’s plan of salvation is united from Adam to Christ, the coming of Christ broke down ethnic barriers.  Jews and Gentiles alike need salvation, and they alike find salvation only through faith in Christ.

Fourth, Paul’s letters were written to help believers understand and live out the meaning of their new life of Christ.  Paul responded to false teachers who were leading people astray and dealt with misunderstanding that had arisen in the young churches.  Paul therefore dealt with a wide spectrum of issues, some of which are quite similar to issues we still face.
Paul reminds us that Christ is Lord and wants to reign over every facet of our lives.  The Holy Spirt empowers and guides us to live this new, Christ-centered life.

(1 Commentary copied from the NLT Parallel Study Bible; Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., pages 2107 and 2108.)

Scripture: Read - Romans Chapters 7:1 – 8:39

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?

Assignment: 

•  Prayer:  Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

• Read: Romans Chapters 9:1 – 10:21

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

References/Acknowledgements:

1.     NLT Parallel Study Bible; Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carroll Stream, IL
NLT Study Bible notes copyright 2008, New Living Translation (NLT).
New Living Translation, Holy Bible copyright 1996, 2004, 2007.  
     https://www.tyndale.com/

     https://www.tyndale.com/p/nlt-parallel-study-bible/9781414359991

Bible Study Jan 24

Introduction: This is our third meeting for the Winter Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Anyone is welcome to join, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week. We will meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting EVERY Wednesday night, through the end of February (Feb. 28 th , 2024).

Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, which was a letter written by the apostle Paul. 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.

1 You aren’t a Christian because you did something special to deserve God’s love. You didn’t earn the right to have your sins forgiven. God gave you a gift, and you accepted it. That’s why you’re a Christian.

If you want to keep your relationship with God real, you’ll need to remember that. It’s good to be humble and remember that you did nothing to earn your standing before God. Only then can you fully appreciate just how incredible God is and how awesome it is that you can walk with him in this like and for all of eternity.

( 1 Commentary copied from the Revolution Bible; Zondervan Bible Publishers, NIV, page 1384.)

Scripture: Read - Romans Chapters 5:1 – 6:23

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?

• Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

•  Read: Romans Chapters 7:1 – 8:39. Is there anything that stands out when reading this passage? Be ready to discuss it at the next meeting.

References/Acknowledgements:

1. Revolution Bible, The Bible for Teen Guys; Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan, copyright 2011, New

International Version (NIV). https://www.zondervan.com

https://www.zondervan.com/9780310437796/niv-revolution-the-bible-for-teen-guys-hardcover/

Bible Study Jan 17

Introduction: This is our second meeting for the Winter Semester of the Men’s “Called” Growth Group. Anyone is welcome to attend, and you do not have to have attended a previous meeting to join this week. We will meet at 7:00pm and will continue meeting EVERY Wednesday night, through the end of February (Feb. 28 th , 2024).

Called Men’s Group is conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, using the SOAP method of Bible study, which is a systematic method of studying the Bible. “SOAP” stands for: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer (and I have added Questions). This method of Bible study helps us to look deeper into Scripture and find more than if we just simply read the Bible.

1 Christians have long used the book of Romans to understand the steps of salvation. The five verses below are often referred as to The Romans Road to Salvation:

1. PROBLEM: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (3:23)

2. CONSEQUENCE: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (6:23)

3. SOLUTION: But God Proves his own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (5:8)

4. RESPONSE: If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved (10:9)

5. ASSURANCE: For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (10:13)

( 1 Commentary copied from the He Reads Truth Bible; Holman Bible Publishers, CSB, page -1964.)

Scripture: Read - Romans Chapters 3:1 – 4:25

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?

• Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

• Read: Romans Chapters 5:1 – 6:26

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

• Checkout: Simple “Romans Road” to salvation from BibleTruths.org

References/Acknowledgements:

1. He Reads Truth Bible; Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, copyright 2019, Christian Standard Bible. https://hereadstruthbible.csbible.com/

Bible Study Jan 10

Introduction: Our WINTER SEMESTER of CALLED Men’s Growth Groups kicks off tonight, January 10 th . We will meet at 7:00 pm and will continue meeting EVERY Wednesday night through the end of February (February 28 th – 8-weeks total).

Called Men’s Group will be conducting a Bible study of the Book of Romans, which was a letter written by the apostle Paul, at the end of his third missionary journey. Paul’s letter to the Roman house churches focuses on the doctrine of salvation given to believers through Jesus Christ. Paul’s purpose in writing the letter was to share spiritual strength to the believers in Rome, and now Paul’s letter shares spiritual strength to us all.

We will use the SOAP method of Bible study, which is a systematic way to study the Bible. It helps us to look deeper into the Scripture and find more than if were just simply reading the scripture. The word “SOAP” is an acronym for: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer (and I’ve added Questions).

Scripture, Read: Romans 1:1- 2:29

Observation/ Discussion | (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 is happening meaningful?

  • Is there anything special about the location?

• 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 and Questions | (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)

• How should we apply the message to our lives?

• How should we change our current behavior or actions based on the passage?

• What does the scripture show/indicate to you about people?

• 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 main message was of the chapters?

• Biggest takeaway?

Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

Read: Romans Chapters 3:1 – 4:25

• Is there anything that stands out when reading this passage? Be ready to discuss at the next men’s group.

Bible Study Dec 6

Read: Matthew 1:18 – 2:12 and Luke 2:1-20

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 is happening meaningful?

  • Is there anything special about the location?

• 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?

Application and Questions to Consider (Identify/Discuss Among the Group):

• What does this show/indicate to you about people?

• Was there anything in the passage that jumped out to you?

• Was there anything in the passage that left you with more questions?

  • If yes, research your questions/discuss with the group.

• How should we live our lives or apply the message based on these passages?

• Biggest takeaway?

Prayer: Meditate and pray for the Lord to show you how to use and apply the scriptures to your life.

***REMINDERS***

– Candace is teaching a class the next two Wednesdays (12/13 and 12/20) at 7:00 pm titled “How to ask Questions of the Bible” (Note: NO CHILDCARE).

– Winter Semester begins Wednesday, January 10 and meets weekly through Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

– Look at http://fv.church/events for more details.

Bible Study November 29

READ SCRIPTURE: Acts 28:1-31

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 is happening meaningful?

  • Is there anything special about the location?

  • 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?

Application and Questions to Consider (Identify/Discuss Among the Group):

• What does this show/indicate to you about people?

• Was there anything in the passage that jumped out to you?

• Was there anything in the passage that left you with more questions?

  • If yes, research your questions/discuss with the group.

• How should we live our lives or apply the message based on these passages?

• Biggest takeaway?

• Prayer: Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply these scriptures to your life.

***REMINDER*** This is the last Men’s Group of the Semester. NEXT WEEK on Wednesday 12/06/23 is First Wednesday, And Men’s Group will only meet the first Wednesday of every month. Stay tuned for future details regarding Spring Semester 2024! (http://fv.church/events)

•  For the upcoming First Wednesday, 12/06/2023, meeting, read and be prepared to discuss: Luke 2:1-20 and Matthew 1:18 – 2:12

• Is there anything that stands out when reading these passages?

Bible Study November 15

Read: John 15: 1-4

Read: Acts 27:1-44

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 is happening meaningful?

  • Is there anything special about the location?

• 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?

Application and Questions to Consider (Identify/Discuss Among the Group):

• What does this show/indicate to you about people?

• Was there anything in the passage that jumped out to you?

• Was there anything in the passage that left you with more questions?

  • If yes, research your questions/discuss with the group.

• How should we live our lives or apply the message based on these passages?

• Biggest takeaway?

• Prayer: Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply these scriptures to your life.

***REMINDER*** No Men’s Group NEXT WEEK on Wednesday 11/22/23 (Day before Thanksgiving)

• For the Wednesday, 11/29/2023, meeting, read and be prepared to discuss: Acts 28:1-31

• Is there anything that stands out when reading these passages?