She’s an instructor at Curves.
One of three.
I’ve asked leading questions of all of them
while I was working the machines.
But it was “Sandi” in whom I sensed a little spark.
So it seemed time to have a real conversation about what matters most.
I asked her to lunch.
And so we went — last Wednesday.
Before we were even out of the Curves parking lot, she initiated things, telling me she had really been thinking about one of my questions — and so I asked her if I could tell her my story. She said, “Yes.” And so, before we even arrived at the restaurant, I told her how I had come to believe Jesus was God, and what He meant to me.
When we sat down I told her I sensed a hunger in her. That I wondered if God was wooing her.
She said, “I don’t mean to make you feel badly — but I don’t think you can fix the emptiness in me over lunch.”
I nodded. We ordered our salads. She was quiet, and I waited, wanting to hear whatever it was that was keeping her from Christ.
She had some of the usual objections. I had them once too. I don’t think you can live in this world and not have these questions because you hear them all the time. She said:
- I don’t like it when people think they know the way to heaven or imply that the other religions are wrong.
- What about the people who never hear about Jesus?
I listened. I shared some of the things that Keller says in the wonderful message you will hear this week. Good truths I’ve heard before but expressed in fresh ways. Things we need to have in our hearts so we will be ready, as Peter says, to explain the hope that is within us. Oh — we’ll feel awkward — and we’ll stumble — especially if we care deeply about the person to whom we are speaking. When I’m with my sister Bonnie I get as quivery as jello — it’s just so important to me that she hear and understand — even though I know that is not up to me ultimately.
One of my all time favorite CD’s is Sara Grove’s Conversations, and the leading song describes exactly how tongue-tied I can get when I talk about what matters most. This is a good You-tube version:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QVykEC1VIs
This is the chorus of “Conversations:”
I would like to share with you what makes me complete.
I don’t claim to have found the Truth, but I know it has found me. . .
the only thing that isn’t meaningless to me is Jesus Christ and and way he set me free.
This is all that I have. This is all that I am
I love the line: “I don’t claim to have found the Truth, but I know it has found me…”
That’s how it is. I didn’t know if Jesus was wooing Sandi or not, but I thought He might be.
I do know that without Him we are SO blind. One of her objections shocked me, and I knew she had it because the blindfold was still in place. She said:
It doesn’t seem right to me that, at the end of my life,
if I have refused to be forgiven by Jesus, that I go to hell.
I asked,
But wouldn’t you be so thankful that there is a way to be forgiven?
When I dropped her off, back at Curves, she said “I’m sorry to have this time end.” I thought You are not shutting down. He must be wooing you. And Saturday, when I went in, she had a gift for me.
Somehow I think I’m not the only one sowing seeds — somehow I think that beneath the dark soil, a little seed might be germinating. Life might be coming…
I hope you’ll take copious notes on the Keller message to prepare you for “conversations.” A few of the things I remember are:
NO OTHER FOUNDER OF ANY RELIGION
MAKES THE CLAIMS JESUS MADE
WHO DOES HE SAY THAT HE IS?
THE GREAT I AM
HE DIDN’T HAVE A BEGINNING
HE WAS WITH GOD, CREATING THE WORLD
HE MADE THE SEAS
AND ALL THAT SWIM WITHIN
HE SAYS OUTLANDISH THINGS SUCH AS
I KEEP SENDING PROPHETS AND WISE MEN TO YOU
AND YOU KEEP KILLING THEM
HIS CLAIMS ARE ASTOUNDING
AS R. C. SPROUL THUNDERS:
HE COMES AS THE DOOR
He comes as the Resurrection.
He comes as the Light.
He comes as the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.
He comes as the Good Shepherd.
He comes as the Vine.
He is the One who before Abraham was, is.
The passage we are studying this week is one of the richest in all of Scripture. It’s so rich that I long for you to take extra time. One reason people fast a meal during Lent is to give themselves extra time with the Lord. Consider that if you are pressed for time.
Not only does it explore the fascinating question, “Who does Jesus say He is?” but the frightening but important truth that so many who think they have found the way may, indeed, not have found the way.
I’ll share more about this in the Bible study lesson — a thought that is swirling and swirling around in me — and which I long to have a conversation with you, my dear sisters who are seeking the truth.
SUNDAY/MONDAY: ICE-BREAKERS
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
Bible Study: Monday – Wednesday
This is the fierce argument the Pharisees have with Jesus and it is dense truth — so go slowly during this holy Lenten week. I’m suggesting two Keller sermons: one for 2.50 and one free sermon. Hopefully you can listen to both, for I would hate to have you miss the one that is entitled I Am The I Am. The second one supplements, but goes into a bit more detail about the question swirling about in my mind, and which I had when I talked to Sandi. The Pharisees were in bondage, but they couldn’t see it. They thought they were saved, but they weren’t. How many people who think they are Christians, are even in Bible teaching churches, are deceived, and are not really saved? Here are the big questions: If you are religious to feel good about yourself — if you are doing Bible study, giving to the poor, and going to church — all to feel good about yourself, but not loving God — is it possible you are not saved, even if you can explain the gospel? That question has been swirling about in me, and continues as I read this passage and listen to these sermons. And here’s another one. Is there a danger in issuing an invitation that is more on the basis of what you will get from God than on who He is? Keller has said that we should confront idols right off the bat. These are the questions swirling in my mind.We’ll take them up at the end — so please get to the end!
I am so thankful for this group. The very fact that you are doing the lessons and listening to the sermons without getting a lot of praise for doing so is evidence to me that we have true seekers of God here. How you bless me!
Let’s do the lesson — and then contemplate these hard questions. Ask God to help us all!
It’s the Festival of Lights. Jesus is in the Temple surrounded by candles, and He astounds them all as He claims:
I AM the Light of the World.
Background for sermon passage
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
2. Read John 8:21-30
A. Find evidence for blindfolds on the Pharisees.
B. What does He tell them they have to do to be saved and how do they respond? (vs. 24-25)
C. What do you think He means by verse 28? (I’m asking because I am puzzled. Does He mean some of them will believe?)
3. Read John 8:31-38
They are trusting in the fact that they are “offspring” of Abraham. Yet what evidence does Jesus give that they are not saved?
4. Read John 8:39-47
A. Our father is either Satan or God. Find characteristics of each family.
B. Why does Jesus say they do not believe? (vs. 43) What does this mean?
C. Keller says the real hesitancy to Christ is moral rather than intellectual. People don’t want to give up what they think is freedom. Do you agree with Keller?
D. Give an example of how a surrender to God in any area of your life led to real freedom. Several of you last week: Chris, Rebecca, Anne, Elizabeth, Pollyanna — more — commented on your increasing awareness of God’s goodness. This, I believe, is what helps us surrender. Eager for testimonies!
5. Read John 8:48-59
A. Trace the debate — the accusations of the Pharisees and the responses of Jesus.
48: accusation
49-51 response
52-53 accusation
54-56 response
57 accusation
58 response
B. What are the implications of “Before Abraham was, I AM.”
C. How did the Pharisees respond? Why, do you think?
Thursday/Friday (The sermon, or if possible sermons)
The main sermon is 2.50 (I think I promised no more than 10 this Lent, so may have reached my promise limit. But this one is so key I’d hate to have you miss it. However, if you really can’t afford it, the supplemental one covers some of the same issues, but is on a different passage. )
The first link is to the 2.50 sermon entitled I AM the I AM.
http://sermons.redeemer.com/store/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&product_ID=17296&ParentCat=6
6. Give us your notes, and as you write them, think of how you might make these statements when you have “conversations” with unbelievers.
7. He also addresses how it is so easy to trust in religion instead of God. What notes do you have?
Supplemental Sermon: How To Find The Way http://sermons2.redeemer.com/sermons/how-find-way
8. If you listened to this, write down key points.
9. Would love your input on the questions swirling in my head:
A. If you are religious to feel good about yourself — if you are doing Bible study, giving to the poor, and going to church — all to feel good about yourself, but not loving God — is it possible you are not saved, even if you can explain the gospel?
B. Is there a danger in issuing an invitation that is more on the basis of what you will get from God than on who He is? If so, how would that impact your evangelistic conversations?
Saturday:
10. What’s your take-a-way for the week and why?
484 comments
Oh, good morning friends! Dee, I just LOVE the Sandi story! A gift for a gift–you gave her your time, your heart, the gift of Truth…and she responded with a gift for you–maybe her way of saying thank you that someone cared for her soul–a sign of hope–like the sprigs of light green growth that come on a plant–hope that there is life growing–oh that was just such a beautiful, inspiring, challenging(!) story. And I have always love the Sara Groves song–love “This is all that I have. This is all that I am” He is all we need. I’m excited for this week-to journey with all of you
You encourage my heart, Elizabeth. You do.
When I opened the blog this morning and saw the picture it spoke to my heart. I was a little ashamed of my comment last week about the wine and food. This picture speaks to me. It says that the enjoyment of these things are a picture of the relationships we have in Christ and above all our relationship with Him.
As I read the opening my heart thrilled because it continues some things that God has been speaking to me about. What glorious adventure we have in His speaking to us!
Joyce, I saw your comment on my email. I am so sorry about Shannon. I will pray for her and her family. I don’t often pray for miracles and perhaps that is wrong but I am beginning to see that God’s work is much deeper than these felt needs. For Shannon I pray for miraculous healing in addition to salvation. For you Joyce, I pray that you would be able to focus on the one thing that the Lord calls you to and get your eyes off of the overwhelming weight of problems. Satan wants us to be distracted and discouraged, BUT GOD…has plans. Love you Joyce.
Thank you so much, Anne
I agree, Anne. Love how you put it. Food and wine are a picture of the relationships we have in Christ. Beautifully put.
Dear Anne,
When I woke up this morning, the picture of the table set for two was in my mind, and then I thought of your comment about it. Yes, it does picture our relationship with Jesus (and each other). I got up and thought, okay, I’m going to open my Bible and “sit down at the table with Him” and talk. I agree with Dee, you have a beautiful way of wording things!
THAT is a beautiful picture! 🙂
Thanks for sharing those beautiful pictures of Christ sharing an intimate meal with us, Susan and Anne. Amazing that he wants that kind of intimate relationship with us.
Coming Together in Poverty
There are many forms of poverty: economic poverty, physical poverty, emotional poverty, mental poverty, and spiritual poverty. As long as we relate primarily to each other’s wealth, health, stability, intelligence, and soul strength, we cannot develop true community. Community is not a talent show in which we dazzle the world with our combined gifts. Community is the place where our poverty is acknowledged and accepted, not as something we have to learn to cope with as best as we can but as a true source of new life.
Living community in whatever form – family, parish, twelve-step program, or intentional community – challenges us to come together at the place of our poverty, believing that there we can reveal our richness.
Henri Nouwen~
“Community is the place where our poverty is acknowledged and accepted”
This is what we offer each other here I think. Thanks Anne for sharing this.
Wow, what a quote! “Community is not a talent show in which we dazzle the world with our combined gifts. Community is the place where our poverty is acknowledged and accepted, not as something we have to learn to cope with as best as we can but as a true source of new life.” That is truly food to chew on. Thanks so much for sharing that!
Wow, Anne – thanks for sharing this quote. I agree “Community is not a talent show in which we dazzle the world with our combined gifts.”
Happy new week to you all! Last week was crazy but I survived and even thrived with hubs being home. Sad to see him go back to work tomorrow. Did not have time to listen to sermon last week but may go back and do it today. Had to miss church because we forgot little man’s diaper bag and had a long day because my husband has security which means he has to lock up the church after all leave. At our church people linger long. 🙂 It is a good thing but it means having diapers is a must!! So we drove back home to get it and little man started crying in pain and took off his show and sock. I saw nothing wrong with it but think it was a cramp? Anyway, after all that I stayed home with him and hubs went back to church. I listened to this weeks sermon first so I will answer those questions and go back and read from the beginning in a bit.
LOVED the sermon, you all are going to love it. Sorry I am going backwards too. My life is quite backwards these days anyway. 🙂
6. Give us your notes, and as you write them, think of how you might make these statements when you have “conversations” with unbelievers.
I was cleaning the kitchen while listening so I took mental notes. What stood out to me was you cannot stay on the fence. Jesus kept pushing people to make a decision. Either to hate him or believe him but you cannot say He was a good teacher. He was a lunatic if He was not really God thus making Him crazy and not a good teacher at all. They knew what He was saying in those days claiming to be GOD. At that point you have to make a decision do you believe this or not. Today many people like to ride the fence but you really cannot with intellectual integrity. A decision must be made. So with unbelievers in the conversation we must confront the issue of WHO Jesus is, and believing it or not. Nothing else. He is the Lord of your life or not. Of course in love this is discussed and you cannot force anyone to believe HIM but they have to make a choice. I think these conversations would give people a lot to think about.
7. He also addresses how it is so easy to trust in religion instead of God. What notes do you have? Trusting in religion is dangerous. You can never measure up and are judgmental. He said people are more free and kind when they break free from that. Religion gives you set rules to follow not faith. So to some that is easier trying to measure up however what is needed was already DONE on the cross.
Already listened to the sermon and encouraging us all! Yeah!
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why? The freedom that it does not depend on us. Jesus may be wooing but it is not us who has to get them to make the decision. It is between Jesus and the person and we are just vessels He uses. I love that God is at work through you at curves. Just like in my world He can work through me at the grocery store, doctor’s office, etc.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember? I was so raptured by His love I knew I wanted all of me to go to HIM. Nothing else mattered. I don’t believe it was anything extravagant just I KNEW and felt secure. Like the Sarah Groves song, He caught me and I would never be the same!
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit. It was great being kind to my husband this week and accepting changes. I have still not been on Facebook as often and used time to read those books. They are growing me in HIM. I have changed to the book Foolproofing your Life by Jan Silvious just because I need wisdom on how to deal with our little guys mom. It has been so helpful learning how to biblically deal with a fool. It is helping me find freedom and hopefully be able to move on in life. I reflect on how Christ adopted us fully. No going back. Maybe riding the fence is like this little guy with us. He is legally ours but not fully adopted because his parents stand there yet they are doing nothing to work toward reconciliation. I feel in limbo until adoption is complete or he is restored back to them. Like those on the fence, it is miserable…A decision has to be made. Either He is LORD or He is not. Praying for his parents because I know this fact is key in it all. He is not Lord of their life.
Prayed for you today.
thanks Chris!!
I love how you and Sandi had a nice conversation about Jesus. When Shanon was here working with Kendra, I wanted to talk to her about Jesus too and would say, “praying for you” to let her know how I felt, but never got past that. I’m so afraid of pushing God down people’s throat and awkward about saying anything. Now she has cancer and only 22 with a sweet family. These precious girls are their’s. Now they are asking for prayer, which is good, but I feel I let her down by not talking about Jesus sooner.
Anne gave me some wise advice to just think about one thing that the Lord has called me to do(Kendra), but it is so hard when there is so much pain everywhere. I know God is working and has plans for us all. How do you keep your heart from aching for other’s so?
I love the chorus line in Sara Groves song:
“I would like to share with you what makes me complete.
I don’t claim to have found the Truth, but I know it has found me. . .
the only thing that isn’t meaningless to me is Jesus Christ and and way he set me free.
This is all that I have. This is all that I am.”
Love this song, thank you, Dee
Joyce,
The fact that your heart aches so much for the pain of others shows how very much like Jesus you are. You care about the things He cares about. With all the heavy burdens you shoulder, it would be so easy for you to close yourself off from others, to not care too much. You didn’t let Shanon down. It takes time to build a relationship with someone. You will still have opportunities to share with her, and we will pray for that.
Thank you Susan
Praying for you. I’m learning that the aches of my heart are the very things that God wants me to seek Him about.
Thank you for prayers for me and my son – we made it to Penn State and home safely!
I just finished up last week, but wanted to post my take-away here. Dee’s sobering conversation with her friends about our heart idols really sticks with me. Our idols always demand a sacrifice. What a contrast, then, is Jesus, the Bread of Life. He requires, yes, that we lay down our life to Him and give Him control, but He is not like a devouring idol that demands sacrifices that hurt us and those around us. Our idols suck nourishment out of us, leaving us weak and sick. Jesus Himself feeds us and gives us life.
My hat is off to those of you who travel alone. When my son and I arrived at the college, he helped me get my stuff into my hotel room, then he went to meet his student he was “shadowing” for the rest of the day, and to stay overnite in the dorm. I was on my own until Sat. morning when we met up for the events of the day. I did a lot of walking around the campus of Penn State, trying to learn my way around and to remember the building where we would meet. I had to attend a dinner for parents of prospective students by myself, as my husband was not able to go with us. I felt really out of my comfort zone! Having to go down to get something out of my car in the creepy parking deck of the hotel, alone; making sure I had my hotel room keycard; studying maps of the campus; making conversation with complete strangers.
I was thinking Fri. night, as I was in my room alone, how all alone and kind of fragile I felt. But there was God – there was the Gideon Bible in the nitestand, and I prayed and talked to Him. But I realized that when I’m home, and I’ve got myself surrounded by all my idols – the things that are my security and comfort – I’ve got myself deceived into thinking I’m really okay. Being alone at the hotel was like having my security blanket ripped off. I saw how terrible it really is to replace God with worthless idols, how it leaves you “hanging”, to be without Him is a very desperate situation.
So I think the biggest sacrifice the idols of our hearts demand is to sacrifice our relationship with Him, and we can be so busy keeping up with working for the idols of approval or comfort that we don’t even see it is happening.
So true, Susan. So glad your home.
Susan, you’d get used to traveling alone! Sometimes, I even like/prefer it 🙂 The most dangerous place I’ve traveled alone was when I was in college — so got some of the dislike out of my system (some of that was creepy; in retrospect, I was way too naive). At least when traveling alone, a person goes home. Moving alone — that’s harder, but when the time is right, even that can be SO good.
Susan, thanks for sharing your insight that our idols suck nourishment out of us – but Jesus feeds us and gives us life.
Looking forward to this week! Looks great! We were in San Antonio for a few days last week, so got behind in the study and reading comments, but hoping to listen to the sermon today before I start on the new week tomorrow. Also been dealing with sick kiddos.
Love to all.
Sorry to know your children are sick!
I hope you were able to see the Riverwalk area in San Antonio, we really enjoyed it when we were there for our sons graduation from Air Force boot camp.
Thanks Chris…they are on the mend. We did go to the Riverwalk, one of my mom’s favorite places, (my parents were with us) and also got serenaded by a group of mariachis.
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
That you began the discussion with your testimony, that when Sandi was quiet, you waited. This so hard to do, when we are nervous we feel the need to chatter, to fill up the air with words, rather than encouraging the other person to speak by our silence.
That Sandi imagined that your goal was to “fix” her.
I thought about my own feelings that no one who senses you don’t really care about them will be influenced when you witness to them, But this morning the sermon touched on Jonah, I realized that the people of Nineveh listened to God & repented in spite of the fact that Jonah despised them. God reminding me once more how little I really understand.
I love the seeds picture, the possibility of life in each one, the thought of us, sisters here becoming mature, bearing fruit, dying to ourselves and bringing a harvest, reproducing more life, more glory to God.
“the thought of us, sisters here becoming mature, bearing fruit, dying to ourselves and bringing a harvest, reproducing more life, more glory to God”
Chris, I love this and hope it is true for me.
I feel sure it is and will be Joyce, I am praying for you & for Shanon and her husband.
Joyce are those Shanon’s children in your profile picture?
Yes, the oldest is 3 and her name is Jenna and the youngest is 2 and she is a little red head, named Olivia:)
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
Not per se, but I will share this. The year we took in Mike & Maggie and Brian came to live with us full time, I was having a conversation with friends at church, I mentioned that people often asked me how & why I was doing what I was doing, I shared that I hesitated to say things like ‘I can do all things through Christ’ for fear of sounding canned or trite. One man who listened intently to me looked hard at me and said “Yeah, but if you really believe it…..”
His words struck me to the core, did I really believe it? Do I really believe it now? Enough to share it, enough to overcome my fear and my selfishness and speak out? His words still penetrate my heart.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I stepped up my physical exercise last week in spite of working a lot of hours. I continue to forego wine, without feeling deprived at all.
I have had more opportunities to see my negative assumptions and speak truth to them. I also read more, I will continue with these diciplines.
I hope to do all the lesson, when I read this I thought, oh goodness, she does realize when I skip questions!
I have been trying to do each section without looking ahead before I finish.
There has been a Puritan prayer on the back of the program at church during the sermon series on idols. I couldn’t find the exact same one, but this one is similar. I thought you all might find it rich too.
Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly, Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision, where I live in the depths but see Thee in the heights; hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold Thy glory. Let me learn by paradox that the way down is the way up, that to be low is to be high, that the broken heart is the healed heart, that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit, that the repenting soul is the victorious soul, that to have nothing is to possess all, that to bear the cross is to wear the crown, that to give is to receive, that the valley is the place of vision. Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells, and the deeper the wells the brighter Thy stars shine; let me find Thy light in my darkness, Thy life in my death, Thy joy in my sorrow, Thy grace in my sin, Thy riches in my poverty, Thy glory in my valley.
REALLY LOVE that prayer Chris–thank you–so rich
amazing prayer, Chris S. Thanks for sharing it.
I’m not sure exactly what this means, “Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells, and the deeper the wells the brighter Thy stars shine; let me find Thy light in my darkness, Thy life in my death, Thy joy in my sorrow, Thy grace in my sin, Thy riches in my poverty, Thy glory in my valley.” Does this literally mean that in a dark,deep well you can see stars in the daytime? Really? Can anyone verify this? That thought is so amazing!
Diane, from the Astronomycafe.net — “This mistaken notion was first mentioned by Aristotle and other ancient sources, and was widely assumed to be correct by many literary sources of the 19th century, and even believed by some astronomers. But every astronomer who has ever tested this by experiment came away convinced it was impossible.
Separate experiments to attempt to see Vega and Pollux through tall chimneys were performed by J. A. Hynek and A. N. Winsor. They were unable to detect the stars under near perfect conditions, even with binoculars. The daytime sky is simply too bright to allow us to see even the brightest stars (although Sirius can sometimes be glimpsed just after the Sun rises if you know exactly where to look.) Venus can be seen as a tiny white speck but again, you have to be looking exactly at the right spot.
The most likely explanation for the old legend is that stray bits of rubbish get caught in the updraft and catch the sunlight as they emerge from the chimney. It is possible to see stars in the daytime with a good telescope, as long as it has been prefocused and can be accurately pointed at a target. “
Thanks for checking this theory of seeing stars from a deep well for me, Dawn M.S. that’s very interesting. I still like the idea that the stars are still there during the day, though we cannot see them. It’s like God is still there though sometimes we cannot sense Him.
Chris: “when I read this I thought, oh goodness, she does realize when I skip questions!” 🙂 Agreed, but last week, I skipped most of them.
I am glad you are here now Renee!
Just listened to both sermons, the 2nd is only 20 minutes so it’s not hard to get through both–they are incredible–thank you Dee for researching and providing new ones each time that are so good. We couldn’t get to church today so we listened together and they are so rich. I’m still struggling some with that question “swirling” in your mind Dee–but the second sermon actually helped me a bit–guess we’ll get to that later 😉
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
I’m a little stuck here. Maybe my lack of intellect, or I’m misunderstanding—but I never separated Jesus from God enough to think of Him only as a Prophet. My earliest memories of Jesus are of Him with all the power of God. I will say with Dee’s teachings I’ve understood the Trinity more than I had before. Growing up, I thought of Jesus as “God with Skin”—a physical for of God. I am beginning to see He is so much more, but I also know my limited understanding cannot grasp all of Him before Heaven.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I have loved having our disciplines—focusing on fear, and patience—and seeing Him break me with tools I didn’t expect—and yet I see Him in it. I am excited to be challenged with this week’s lesson. My husband will be gone all week and it would be easy for Satan to try to get me to slack—but I feel a renewed “fire” to press on!
Praying for you Elizabeth, with your husband away & you in pain.
Thank you so much Chris, I do feel the prayers! This morning on my way to the church office, I was talking with God and said–“hey, I feel almost like me again!” I still have some nerve pain, and have an appt this week to look more into that, but the adjustments to my thyroid medication has already begun to help me feel more “normal”–yesterday was the first day in about 3 weeks I didn’t break down in tears about something, so that’s a good step 😉
I’m so sorry…praying for you:)
Indeed it is! I am glad to know your pain is decreasing.
This week looks very interesting. I want to look afresh at how to share Christ with others. I’ll try to listen to both sermons as soon as I can. We have an outreach Tea at our church this week and I want to be ready.
Your enthusiasm encourages me, sisters. I find my sister Bonnie read today’s post. She’s full of grace fortunately.
When I read this morning’s post, I was wondering if Bonnie was reading. If you’re still reading, Hi Bonnie 🙂 You’re very welcome to join us in our search!
Love you, Bonnie:)
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
I was fascinated by your witnessing to Sandi, Dee. You have a courage I wish I had. God has changed me so much recently. Perhaps he can now help me in this area too. And thanks for the lovely video of the fish.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
I became a Christian when I was very young. I don’t remember ever thinking Jesus was not God.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
The Lord is quickening my heart to find ways to reach out to people. We are having a women’s Tea at church this week. This Tea is meant to be a fun time but with an outreach message as well. We are asking friends and neighbors who do not attend our Bible Study group to attend. God has given me the courage to ask three women who are not involved in our church to come. Two of them have said yes. While talking to one of my neighbors to invite her, I discovered she has the flu. (God quickened me again to send her a meal. She lives alone with no family nearby.) This is not something I would normally do (I usually think about things but talk myself out of it.) These are risky steps for me, but I am trying to follow the small Voice of Love. I even tell you this story with fear and trembling that some will think I am boasting. If I am doing anything good for anyone, it is NOT Me. As Bible study leader, I also will be giving the short Bible message as well at the Tea. I would appreciate your prayers.
Oh Diane, I would never think of you as boosting, because that is not you! You are very humble and thoughtful. I think the meal for your neighbor sounds wonderful. I’ll be praying for your Bible message at the tea.
Father, I thank You for how You are moving in Diane’s heart and life. Please grant her favor with her neighbor and those who have said yes to the tea. May Your love through Diane melt them and help them hear.
Praying for your tea Diane, It thought about how you said you talk yourself out of doing things sometimes, I do that to. You are not being “a passive lump”!
I love this quote, I can’t find who said it first, but I heard it once on Midday Connection;
Never supress a generous impulse.
Diane–I am SO amazed at God’s work in you! I too relate to the “talking myself out of it” tendency–you’re challenging me Diane 😉
Loved this quote Chris “Never supress a generous impulse”–For me, I can really apply that with being generous with my time or getting together with someone–I find it so easy to say “no thanks, that’s OK” in favor of something more “productive”…but the Lord seems to continually call me to seeing relationships as the greater priority
Oh, I love that quote, Chris S. I want to be like that. I need to truly meditate on that. I so often do “suppress a generous impulse” either because of time or money or some other excuse.
We did take the meal down to my neighbor. She was genuinely surprised and delighted, I think. Why do I find doing such things so hard? Am I so afraid of being rejected, or of people thinking I have ulterior motives?
This exchange reminded me of this;
1. The version found written on the wall in Mother Teresa’s home for children in Calcutta:
People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
There is an earlier version written by Kent Keith, but I like this one more.
I made a copy of it & framed it with photos of Daniel & his teachers to hang in the teachers lounge.
“It was never between you and them anyway.” WOW
What a great quote, Chris S. I’m definitely copying this one.
Chris, Thanks for sharing this!
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
A couple things stood out:
Sara Groves’ Conversations: I had never read the lyrics before (or listened closely). Here they are: http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Conversations-lyrics-Sara-Groves/E490A1A83112C6B248256DE9000DEE2F
The following verses relate to what I was thinking this afternoon…
I think we’ve figured out
This world is bigger than you and I.
We’ve exhausted our wealth of knowledge
And have no more answers for mankind.
We’ve had every conversation in the world
About what is right and what has all gone bad,
But have I mentioned to you that this is all I am,
This is all that I have.
This afternoon, before I listened to the song/read the lyrics, I was reading something quickly which was too philosophical to read quickly, but it does relate (and also relates to what we’ve discussed earlier). In “The Mentored Life: From Individualism to Personhood,” James Houston described how the Stoics at the Agora of Athens were open to Paul’s teaching and how Paul used Stoic ideas in his speech. Regarding Stoicism, Houston also wrote that “Christendom has imbibed no other extraneous influence more deeply, especially when the biblical doctrine of sin is overlooked, that is, in the human usurpation of the role and sphere of God.”
I used to be a better Stoic. That made me “better” in some aspects of life. This afternoon, when I read a few pages in Houston’s book, I was reminded that more knowledge and more morality are neither the solutions to life nor the the purpose in life. But I work in a setting where discovering and applying knowledge are important. And even crazier, most of the time I LIKE theories and research and statistics. Despite my seemingly unending curiosity (and sometimes a tendency toward perfectionism), neither knowledge nor morality drive me (at least most of the time). I burned out on that a long time ago. That’s why Sara Groves’ lyrics were so powerful:
“The only thing that isn’t meaningless to me
Is Jesus Christ and the way he set me free.
This is all that I have. This is all that I am.
It’s all that I have, and it’s all”
To answer #3, I bombed the putting off/putting on most of last week (Tues-Friday; yesterday was good). I probably would have done better at it (in a legalistic sense) if I were still a Stoic. I didn’t even try from a legalistic perspective. And I really can’t even blame busyness. I was — or should have been — busy. But I felt somewhat overwhelmed and (literally) pulled the covers over my head. The blankets were literal a couple of days, but I had to put in an appearance, too. No one could have accused me of overachieving last week. My desired “putting on” was to create space/spend time with Him. Instead, I spent it in a lost numbness and going through the motions. He gave me a kick in the pants and the corresponding strength to do some of the study yesterday, which in turn, gave me the willingness to post again.
As long as I’m out of order with #3, doing all of this lesson is an excellent plan 🙂 Thanks for suggesting it, Dee! It is perfect, and after blowing last week, I would have had a hard time thinking of something for this week. SOOOO…. does “doing all of the lesson” mean posting later in the week, too??? Posting some responses keeps me disciplined to do the study, but it is kinda hard to show up again after fizzling. As I’m writing this, I’m seeing that He is even using my poor participation during the past couple of weeks to remind me that He is all that I am, all that I have, and that He found me and He keeps me.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
I thought about this much of the afternoon, and no, I cannot remember a time when I didn’t think Jesus was God. I always assumed Jesus was God; I talked to Him when I was little. What I can remember is trying to “unbelieve” so that I could “make the decision” in the right way. I remember friends praying “the prayer.” And I remember feeling tremendous guilt, but it wasn’t the guilt of sin. It was the guilt of not socially conforming. In retrospect, I believe much of the relief I felt after the day/date/sinner’s prayer was that I had an appropriate answer so that when the question was raised again and again and again (not that that completely helped because there was… BACKSLIDING.) For as long as I can remember, I believed Jesus was God, but the assurance of the extent and the efficacy of His work for me took longer (I used to think that I had to feel miserable — i.e., convicted, for God to be working in my life). I’ve often wondered how people dared say they’ve always been a Christian, because I knew it wasn’t an “evangelically correct” answer in many circles. I still don’t know if people who write that are extraordinarily courageous or if they just haven’t been exposed to the same varieties of Christianity that I have!
(Just looked at the question again. sorry for lack of simple “no, I don’t remember anything!” I see what I wrote might be related to the last questions. Sorta dying to get into them now — have had discussions about that with someone during the past year. Anyway, my religiosity doesn’t make me feel very good because I’m not very good at it anymore. Being good at religiosity just seemed to make my life worse.)
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
Already answered and walking 🙂 Dee, thank you so so so much for this study!
Thought provoking post.
I like this Renee “more knowledge and more morality are neither the solutions to life nor the the purpose in life”–good perspective reminder!
1. What stands out to me is ‘conversations’ and ‘relationships’. I am obedient to Christ in every way I have the power to be, except this. I do not witness. I have tried and failed and convinced myself that I am just not the kind of person that people feel comfortable with or that commands any kind of credibility. All true so what is my excuse, right?
This is right where God has been speaking to me in the last few weeks. It makes sense to me that I should be here now because if joy is His agenda and work in the Spirit is the source of joy then I have to learn how to work for the King.
Lord, I pray for us right now. Help us Lord to work for You. I, for one, have no power or ability in this area and I recognize that as a good thing. Thank You for the deliverance You have brought and are still bringing to us from idolatry. Help us now to take the next step into the fields. Thank You for what You are showing Dee as she leads us. After studying about idolatry, I see that the whole world is DYING for You. They are desperately seeking You and don’t know it. Help us to share who You are and what You mean to us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and may He speak through us to this desperate world. Amen~
Another thing that stands out is when Sandi said this: “I don’t like it when people think they know the way to heaven or imply that the other religions are wrong.” I have heard this complaint before. It is an easy pit to fall into because we do know the only way to salvation, but if we come across as ‘holier than thou’ we lose all credibility.
I doubt very much that you will ‘come off as holier than thou” Anne. Because you know you have no righteousness of your own.
I agree about the whole world desperatly searching for Christ, I admire your desire to witness!
Amen!
Good Anne. Last paragraph — so important to confess our sins when witnessing.
What I mean is that so many times witnessing has been done wrong and people are sensitive. They may shut us down before we can speak. I was not referring to this instance at all. I think it was very good that Sandi felt comfortable enough to express her feelings.
I think it is this shut down that I fear. I am afraid I will cause more harm than good. That and it squeezes my approval idol.
Amen to your prayer, Anne, and I am praying it with you. I feel totally inadequate when it comes to witnessing and need to learn how to initiate Christ conversations, following Christ’s leading. I too fear doing more harm than God and feel so in need of guidance in this area.
Praying for you also Diane, for your Tea and beyond. I do sense a growing faith. I know this is what God has for us and because of that, I know we can do it.
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
ALL OF IT. This is going to be an exciting week! Our Sunday School class praying. That Sara Groves CD has been one of my all time favorites as well. 🙂
I am so excited to hear God may be wooing Sandi, and for His quickening with Dee in how she was able to discern things. I also love how Dee approached Sandi where she was at-so good.
Steve always gave the same thing to everyone each Christmas. One year it was Conversations. 🙂
Dee, It’s endearing me more to Steve when I hear stories about him-love to hear them, and the stories of him giving the same thing at Christmas-love him more! :-)-and Conversations, what a great gift!
I am so impressed he would give such a great gift! And was thinking the same thing, Rebecca–something about me always feels so drawn to Steve–after you mentioned him here Dee, I searched for anything he’d written (remembering you said once you did some together?)–I just found the Fishermen Bible study guides online–they look really good, I would love to know more of his thoughts and wisdom.
You two bless me with your love for Steve. The last thing we did together was a revision of Building Your House on the Lord (Fisherman Study) There’s a huge story behind that and someday I’ll tell you! He was also a big influence in the Fisherman 1 Peter guide, which sadly, just went out of print — though I have some. It was his favorite book of the Bible — I guess God knew the suffering ahead.
Thanks for loving Steve.
Just ordered the Peter one! CBD and Amazon both had copies 😉
I’m looking for a bible study to do with my husband Steve – that may be it! By the way, our extended family has lots of similar names. I once made a family tree at Christmas for my cousin Jim (one of the 4 named James in the family) with arrows pointing to the corresponding names. I hope he kept it. It was quite the work of art. 🙂
Anne Meredith, I just read this and saw your husband’s name is Steve too-wow! And you are named after Dee-so cool! 🙂
That’s something I never knew about him. Love hearing the stories too. I’ll never forget his great laugh, his eyes of compassion, his ability to really listen to people and share the wisdom they needed to hear. I know he ministered a lot to my brother Tim when he was struggling with depression and anxiety. Tim has shared with me some of that wisdom in my own struggles, so it’s neat to know Uncle Steve’s words are still being repeated.
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
Jesus said He is the Light of the world. The Pharisees thought He was either crazy or a liar. They said His claim was invalid because He had no witness. Jesus said He stands with His Father as His witnesses.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
(v 12) The Light of the world. (12) The Giver of life; (14) Knows all; (15,16) Perfect Judge-not based on human standards; (16) Stands with the Father; (18) Sent by the Father; (19) He is the Way to the Father; (19) One with the Father—to know Him is to know the Father
2. Read John 8:21-30
A. Find evidence for blindfolds on the Pharisees.
They didn’t understand His words about going away and that they could not follow Him. They still asked “Who are You?”
B. What does He tell them they have to do to be saved and how do they respond? (vs. 24-25)
Believe He is Who He says He is. And they ask—“Who are you?” He says, I’ve been telling you all along.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
Great question! Before I knew Jesus I believed He was the Son of God, but wasn’t told He was God so i didn’t know, but later in my life when my brother shared the Gospel with me, I realized Jesus wasn’t only the Son of God, he was indeed God. Then, the next thing that hit me was that Jesus is Holy. Immediately I saw how wretched I was and how there really was no way I could stand before Him in my sin. I knew that He died to forgive me of my sins so that I could stand before God and have a relationship with Him. This was the turning point for me. I wanted God for God and knew that my sin separated me from Him-I wanted Him to take control of my life and wanted to give myself totally to Him. It wasn’t that I wanted Him to keep me from going to hell, or so that I could go to heaven, but I just wanted Him-and to be His.
I just listened to Sara Groves’ song. So good. So honest. Thanks so much for sharing that, Dee.
2. I was saved at an early age and don’t remember not knowing that Jesus is God.
3. I have done well with the putting off of wine but I do not plan to continue that this week. I am doing better at putting off sarcasm and criticism, I think, at least I have not caught myself in the last few days. I have put on exercise and actually have enjoyed it for the first time ever. I plan to continue the diet always but will at times celebrate, but for my everyday eating I want to continue because it is right before the Lord and because I feel great. I walked the dog this morning and even though I was a little sore from yesterday it felt good as I stretched my thighs and glutes. I must remember this so that I can speak it back to myself in times of weakness. I am having some difficulty with the meditation, but will not give up because it gives the Lord an opening to speak to me.
This week I will do as you suggest Dee and put on doing all of my lesson. This one is important. I pray that I will receive all that God has for me.
Good Anne. Just listened to a sermon on Ephesians on the New Self this morning (Keller) that the main thing we need to put off is ourselves and put on Christ — so rest can naturally follow.
Is this Keller’s current sermon series?
btw I am amazed again at how God orchestrates my life and our studies together. Last week I studied Ephesians in bsf, all about putting off and putting on.
Tonight I heard the lecture on Eph. 4 and our leader exclaimed how excited she is about this New Woman! I agree, I am excited to learn to put on Christ and become new.
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
I guess I wonder what drew Sandi to you Dee in the first place? It doesn’t seem like she wanted to hear about Jesus. she seemed to have her back up.
For question 2; I don’t remember ever not believing Jesus was God. Maybe I just never thought about it.I think I just thought he was God’s son, a representative of God. Someone who could act on Gods behalf.
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
The music of Sarah and how Dee asked leading questions of the ladies at Curves which leads me to think she wants to share Christ, make an impression for Christ or lead into discussions that will help her share Him with others.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember? Yes, a Sunday school teacher likened the trinity to the three parts of an egg and yet each one is still an egg but does different things.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline.
I will continue to memorize unless it interferes with getting my lesson done and I am ready for verse 18 tomorrow (I only memorize weekdays) It is changing me to memorize and that is exciting. I also continue to feel so good and am sleeping better due to exercising. Love the daily giving to others. This Lenten has been so sweet – the best Lent ever! The lessons are so very timely -thank you Dee.
I want to admit something. I had one other Lenten desire/goal but didn’t have enough faith to tell you all and I feel I may be slighting Him since I think He placed it in my heart. I want to win one soul to Christ during Lent. When I saw how Dee was stepping out in faith to ask leading questions and how Anne prayed we go to the fields I am inspired. I wonder if I was afraid to set a goal I had little control over – guess I better put on faith. 🙂
I love my new part time job caring for a precious elderly lady. She seems to be a believer. She barely spoke or smiled the first couple of days but now she takes my hand and holds it and smiles and chats – love her already! I have cared for such difficult people in the past and feel mightily blessed to have a sweet one. She is estranged from her daughter and daughter’s children for several years now and I told her God answers prayer and I am praying for a miracle. Please say a prayer for this. I can’t imagine losing a parent and not having spoken for years with no explanation. I want my care of this woman to impact the entire family for him.
.
Kim, you truly are a blessing!
I’m sure you are being Jesus to this lady. Sweet to hear of it.
Unforgiveness is such a sad thing. I pray with you for reconciliation.
Praying for your dear lady & her family, you are so sweet Kim
I too take care of the elderly in a care facility. You are doing a great thing, there is so much loneliness and despair in the elderly. What a place to fill a life with the light of Jesus. I will be praying for this lady and her family.
How great that she began to smile! I volunteer at an art studio for disabled artists. Two of them have brain injuries and have trouble articulating and remembering, etc. It’s so great when they smile and actually recognize me and let me in a little bit. A little different than your situation but I understand people coming out of their shell. Will be praying for you!
Thank you everyone. I am excited to think we could pray and have a small part of a family’s healing process. I just can’t fathom such a sweet woman being without her only daughter and daughter’s kids for years and not be able to remember what happened to cause a rift this deep. She keeps forgetting that she has told me the situation so I know it is weighing heavy on her mind and heart for her to keep repeating it to me.
The students at my school have finally formed their new Christian group! One of the first thongs they are going to do is go sing olde hymns at our local adult day car center! I am so excited!
Laura-dancer, no way! HOW COOL!! That is so exciting!! I may put a bug in Eli’s ear about possibly starting one at his school. 🙂
I know! The only thing is that everyone scrutinizes you more than other groups. The kids wanted to make an announcement to invite students to the meetings and one of the deans said they couldn’t say the words Bible, prayer, or worship. That is WRONG. In 1993 the Supreme Court ruled that prayer clubs and Bible groups had to be treated with equal “access” as other groups in public schools. So I told the kids to give me a day or so. I took the documentation to the dean in charge of signage in our school and showed her the paperwork and voila! We were in!
I told the students later what happened, and made sure they knew we should always act Christ like in all we do, including straightening someone out on their misconceptions.
So, we could sure use more groups around the country. Especially when we have kids SO misled and are bringing weapons to school. Students need a place to feel welcomed when they are sad or in need of a friend.
Hope it works for Eli if he chooses to create a group. It sounds like he would be a good leader 🙂
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why? – The story of Sandi was something that jumped out at me. It was great too see that your questions to her were making her think, that she new enough Dee that you would not be able to fix her problems, that something or someone greater would be needed. The Sarah Groves song too was nice. We need to
remember that we do not need to be a bible scholar in order to be used by God. we just need to live our lives the way God has set them up to be lived, to have His glory shine thru us. The seeds will be planted and the one that is fitting to God’s timing will be the waterer.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember? – I really don’t remember if I ever thought of them as separate or as different beings. I grew up Catholic and was taught that even though they are three they are One.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit. – I am going to take this challenge Dee and work really hard to finish this weeks lesson completely. The last couple weeks have been a bit more hectic and I really need to get back on track to where I’m opening my eyes to the Word in some way before I get involved in other things.
“We need to remember that we do not need to be a bible scholar in order to be used by God. we just need to live our lives the way God has set them up to be lived, to have His glory shine thru us. The seeds will be planted and the one that is fitting to God’s timing will be the waterer.”
Thank you, Julie, I needed to hear that so much!
I needed to hear that too! thanks Julie!
Thanks, Julie. I needed to hear your encouragement of how God can use us if we follow God His glory shines through us.
Amen Julie!
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
I grew up in a non-christian home, but luckly my older brother met a christian girl (they been married 45 yrs now) and they witnessed to me when I was in my early 20’s. I gave my heart to the Lord and I don’t remember not thinking Jesus was not God. They explained the trinity to me so I always believed Jesus was God. My brother and his girlfriend at the time, witnessed to my parents and other two older brother’s. My parents didn’t want to listen to them “preach to them”, so I thought I would work on dad (scary thought that was),thinking if I could get dad to believe, mom would follow. So one day, I got up the nerve to say to dad, “Dad, do you believe there is a God? He said “Not you, too”! He ask me who wrote the Bible and who says we should believe it”? Well, I was dumbfounded….all I could say was, “Well, God inspired other’s to write it for him.” Dad said, “Prove it to me.” I was not versed in the Bible at all and didn’t know anything. So that was the end of my witnessing to dad. It really hurt my feelings, that I probly made it worse for him to believe than beforehand, because I could not back my words, with verses. Later in life, dad died at 68 yrs from a rare lung desease, but before he died, a wonderful lady that graduated with dad, was a volunteer at the hospital to pray with patients. She prayed a prayer before he died and he REALLY prayed it with her, so I pray he is in heaven. Mom done the same thing before she died, 20 yrs later, in the hospital, praying with family, before she died of a heart attack. God spared their lives untill they could come to him before death. Not many people have that chance, so I praise him so much for that. I thanked the volunteer lady who prayed with dad, years later, because if it hadn’t been for her, he may have never prayed that prayer. That is why I am still so scard to witness to other’s, for fear they will want me to quote scripture, where is say’s whatever they ask:(
I am still not very versed.
This is precious that they both prayed before they died. I’m sure they saw Jesus in you after you found Christ. What a reunion in heaven it will be.
Joyce you witnessed to your parents with you life, Jesus changed you, I am sure they saw it too. You can have no better witness than that.
I don’t believe that you lack of being able to spew verses at you Dad made it harder for him to believe. He wasn’t ready to then.
My Dad was similar, he said religion was a crutch weak people needed to get through life. I remember some church members visiting our home and my Dad treating them badly. I was so ashamed. I bet they prayed for him when they left, he accepted Christ in his last days, we were astonished, and grateful. God is so merciful!
The witness of your lives is powerful. His mercy is also amazing. My parents were both saved at the end of their lives. I know that my father did it on purpose because of something he said to me near the end of his life. I was talking to him about salvation and he said that was something you take care of when you are going to die. I was floored and even said something to the effect that I did not think his health was all that good (it flew out before I could catch it). Yet God, in His mercy allowed him to play that game. My father did not have a bad life but I can’t help being sad over what a waste it is to do that.
Joyce my small group is doing the John MacArthur study on John and we just talked about that, where do you want to be strong and why does it bother you that you aren’t there and that was my response, that I don’t know where things are in the bible, I’ve heard of them but can’t remember them until I hear them again. Some of the group said that should not stop us from witnessing, that we can live our lives as Godly as we can and if they ask a question that we may not know the answer too we can tell them that we will find out the answer and let them know. I thought that was pretty good and made me feel better to still try and be the best witness I can be.
Joyce, your life in Him is amazing. I want to encourage you that HE KNOWS..He knows your struggles-daily as a mom with a special needs child on top of all the suffering you have endured. He sees your heart and I am so amazed you are making time for Him here on the blog and in his Word-Sure, you don’t have tons of time-taking care of your daughter takes A LOT of time, especially so with a cast on her!-but His Grace abounds, Joyce. Just spend as much time with Him as you are able-He will meet you there. Love you.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I am still working on putting on humility and putting off my pride. This is a daily thing with me. I honestly think of Dee’s husband when I think of being humble. He was the most humble person I have ever met. I try to think what he did to show his humility and I can’t quite put my finger on it…it was just his personality…he was always like that. Dee do you have any suggestions on how to become humble, all the time, like Steve was? How to put off self and put on Jesus? Someone said to imagine Jesus standing behind everyone you talked to. Maybe that’s what I will try, especially with my husband, who I have the most trouble with:(
I’m not very good at doing all the lesson..just here and there! Mostly I am good at encouraging and praying for other’s. The other Bible study I am doing is, “When God’s Spirit Moves” by Jim Cymbala and it is very intense and requires alot of searching…which is very good for me. It’s a very good book and I’ve always wondered about the Holy Spirit, so I’m enjoying it alot! So I’m praying we all walk in his spirit daily:)
We so appreciate your prayers, Joyce.
Absolutely. Thank you Joyce 🙂
Joyce, you didn’t ask me, you asked Dee but wanted to share with you how you made me think, I so think the world of you by the way-you are wonderful. 🙂
I like what you brought up about Steve-made me think-and i didn’t know him, but I was thinking why you were unable to put your finger on it-perhaps it wasn’t him doing anything other than putting off himself and yielding to Christ, but from what I gather he was a man who constantly yielded himself to Christ-from what I have read and heard from Dee about him-that is what draws me to him-remarkably humble man. I was also very drawn to how he adored and worshiped Jesus-and the outflow of that in his life is tremendous-he put himself aside for Jesus and as a result the outflow enabled him to put himself aside for others. The power of God-amazing! 🙂
You asked another great question on how to put off self and put on Jesus-This hard to put into words. I don’t know the answers-a heart that yields is precious in His sight, but I can say it is by His grace if we have a heart that yields.
The ‘how’: We must know Him first, of course, and listen to the Holy Spirit’s promptings inside and to pay attention to his quickening-I am learning when I keep my eyes on how He went to the fire for me-his love for me, really draws me to repentance, but it is my choice to put off and turn-and the reality is, how can I not put off while looking at Him-letting His light sear my darkness and expose these layers? Yet sometimes I don’t want to hear-I am stubborn. I want to be more like Jesus-He yielded to God so quickly. I just know I am wretched and I need Him-I can’t do anything apart from Him. This is a continual process-a stream of putting aside myself to hear Him-put aside my thinking, me being ‘right’, justified in my thinking, etc, and yield to Him-He helps me see others differently including my husband! 🙂 He is worth far more than any stick we can hold onto-He is our worth-We are nothing without Him-He is weightier than us-He is God-when I gaze at the enormity of who He is-I feel sorrow inside for how I held up anything higher than him-yet certainly this needs to happen more in my life than it does! When He helps me see who I am against Who He is yielding comes. I am learning there are so many layers I am unaware of yet though!!! I have much, much, much more for Him to reveal and for me to yield to him with. I am thankful God hasn’t thrown it all to the forefront at once with me-the wickedness in my heart-I would be overwhelmed I am sure! Sorry, I rabbit trailed and don’t have time to edit..I just so appreciated your question.
Thank you Rebecca, you help me think clearly about all of this….loved your thoughts!
Joyce, I too am most drawn to the humble. It is what first drew me to Dee, Keller, and what I love most in my husband. We (I say “we” loosely, my husband is the better reader–I’m Cliff Notes Queen!) just started CJ Mahaney’s book, Humility–and I wanted to share this with you:
“Humility is honestly assessing ourselves in light of God’s holiness and our sinfulness….What are you building with your life? A marriage? A family? A business? A church? A career? In all your ventures,are you aware of your need for God’s grace to give your efforts lasting value? Do you long for God’s providential help and blessing? Then let’s allow the promise of humility to shape our life and choices, so our children and others will one day look back and say of us, They had that. They had humility. They had what mattered.”
I see this in you, Joyce
Thank you, Elizabeth, but I’m a work in progress…I hope!! Thank you so much for that quote from his book. I think I should order that one! Thank you!
Our entire congregation was encouraged to read Mahaneys “The Cross Centered Life” it is a wonderful, life changing little book, I must have given away 5 copies at least.
The message that most stuck with me from it was that we must preach the gospel to ourselves continuously.
I must say all these Keller semons certainly make that easier to do
I love the idea of picturing Jesus standing behind you when we try to walk out humility, because we know He’s there and we so often forget it. I’m going to try that out.
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
Jesus and the pharisses debate on who He really is. They say He is the only witness that testifies for himself; their law requires 2. He says He is the light and all who know Him will walk in the light. He says His father is also a witness, but they don’t know Him. Jesus says He doesn’t judge by human standards, but the pharisses do.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
He is the light. He is sent by the Father. He is a witness for Himself. He passes true judgement.
I think it is ironic that my pastor spoke of miracles again yesterday; specifically of Dorcas being brought back to life. He spoke of her gift of shawl making and how important it was compared to the miracle that was shown to the people. He made an analogy to us; our kindness to others is more important than the one or two miracles that we might encounter in our lifetime.
Dee you were kind to Sandi.
I got a call from my sister (the one I haven’t seen in 10 years who is not a believer and has never attended church) and we spoke of different things including homosexuality. Her daughter has many friends who believe they are gay. My niece is 18. It saddens me we live in a world where the youth are allowed to run the show and no one steps in to set them straight. I can’t believe adults don’t stand up and tell these young people that what they are doing is immoral and that they are too young to understand such adult topics. I tried to be kind like Dee was to Sandi; and witness like Anne spoke of above, but I’m not sure my testimony to my sister stuck. I will see her in 2 weeks. Pray that I can be understanding and know the words to speak. I hope I can make an impact on her because she seems very sad and lonely. I wonder if she knows all she is missing in life by not know Jesus? Probably not. She is unaware and sees no way out.
Thanks for listening.
Father I do ask that Laura-dancer might be able to show Your love to her sad sister. That that would woo her sister to You, begin to soften her heart.
I know this all seems unrelated…..sorry. Annes post made me think of my witnessing to my sister. The miracles my pastor spoke of reminded me of last weeks blog here, and Dee being kind brought back the sermon on Dorcas and annes post. In my mind they were all related! Crazy brain I have!
Also, have we heard back from rebekah hardy? I can’t stop thinking of her 🙂
No word for Rebekah, I hope every time I open my email account to see something from her.
Perhaps God is opening a door with your sister who you haven’t seen in such a long time, all the things from the sermon & the miracles & the blog tieing together isn’t crazyness but the Holy Spirit!?!?
Soooo good chris 🙂
Laura, I will pray for you and your sister. Remind us again as your time together gets closer. In thinking of you and Joyce’s post this morning I have found the best way to witness is simply, lovingly, telling what Jesus means to me. Our testimony carries a lot of weight b/c it’s not defending our faith it’s sharing first hand experience. I agree with Anne that God has done a work here among us concerning idols and we must reach out to a dying world.
Yes, Kim…so true.
I will pray for that time you’ll be with your sister, Laura. Maybe you can plant a seed:)
Thank you all sisters!
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I think control was an issue for me with my son and God has been chiseling these past four or so months in that area of my life. I do think the closer I draw to Him-he reveals when I am taking my eyes off Him so I want to keep my eyes open. It was a huge mountain, and yet now it is there from time to time, but it doesn’t dominate me like it did. I am reminded He is I AM-He is God and He is in control.
For this week, God is impressing on my heart to be still more and listen. More and more I am not liking a moment going by where my mind is not staid on Him-when the rocks get in the way of the stream-I want to hear Him instead of me-so I desire to put off whatever hinders me in that moment instead of being stubborn and it taking a whole day before I turn. My flesh are the rocks in the streams of communion with Him-that doesn’t surprise me, just shows me more and more how I need Him to remove those rocks!
I do hear it said often that is just how it is, we are human. So true, but He is my hope-and His desire is that He chisels and chisels and removes those rocks one by one so that I become more like Him. He has me in a place of constant trial where I am laying down and opening my heart to His knife-yet even then, only by His Grace!
Writing this one down, Rebecca–great morning devotion thought for me “More and more I am not liking a moment going by where my mind is not staid on Him-when the rocks get in the way of the stream-I want to hear Him instead of me-so I desire to put off whatever hinders me in that moment instead of being stubborn and it taking a whole day before I turn.”
LOVE LEARNING FROM YOU
Thank you Dee for these wonderful lessons! I have been richly blessed by them.
The approval idol has reared is ugly head last week, which means less time on social networking this week and prioritize my lessons for this week!
I have no problem paying for the Keller sermons, his preaching, all though older sermons, are enriching my spirit!
Have a blessed week everyone!
I plan to give my in put sometime this week, but I also to put my all into this important lesson as well. Understanding who Jesus really is so lifechanging!
Laura Marie
Laura Marie, You too! Love that you are doing this study with us and although I didn’t have time to comment a few weeks ago, I am glad you are back!!
Amen to Rebecca.
Amen to Rebecca and Kim, Laura Marie!
Yup! Amen to Rebecca, Kim, and Joyce 🙂 Glad you are here, Laura Marie!
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
The Pharisees, religious Zealots, were challenging Jesus when He told them He was God. They were saying He wasn’t God by saying He can’t be a witness to testify on behalf of Himself. They were saying he was a liar in v.14-eyes closed and blinded right there. I don’t think at that point it mattered what Jesus said, they weren’t going to believe He was God, and were going to continue to rebut him after each time He told them who He was.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
Jesus is saying He is God. V12: He is the Light of the world-only God can forgive sins, which includes mans sins against one another, so that men won’t walk in darkness. V14: He is the beginning and end, V.15, 16: He is perfect justice-His standards of judging aren’t based on the standards of men, but on the standards of a Holy God-only God can do this and He claims He and the Father are One in judgment. V17,18: Jesus is appealing to their reason using their law to make it clear to them that “I am He” He is the Son of God and God.
Then Jesus ramps it up here after they asked, so where is your father-they still didn’t see- In V.19 Jesus says, you know neither me nor my father-IF YOU KNEW ME YOU WOULD KNOW MY FATHER ALSO. JESUS AND GOD AREN’T SEPARATE. YOU CAN’T KNOW GOD WITHOUT KNOWING JESUS.
A. Describe the debate.
Jesus says I AM the light of the world, offering that those who choose to be his followers will not walk in darkness
The Pharisees say they can’t trust Jesus’ testimony about himself.
Jesus says they don’t understand where He came from or where He is going
The Pharisees judge people on what they can see and what they think they understand. Jesus understanding is in tune with the omniscience of God, when He judges His judgments are true
Jesus says the Father bears witness to who He is, I wonder if Jesus is pointing to scriptures that verify Him, or the Holy Spirit, who convicts and guides us when we really want to know the truth.
If the Pharisees had a real relationship with God the Father, they would have recognized God the son.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
Jesus says He is the light of the whole world, able to keep His followers from walking in darkness
He says the Pharisees don’t know where He came from or where He is going, that His testimony about himself is true
Jesus claims to be of one mind with God the Father
He claims that God the Father words- the scriptures authenticate who Jesus is
He says that if they can’t see who He is when He is standing there in front of them, how can they expect to know the Father
Jesus’ claims were/are astonishing, the Pharisees did not want to see, they just like many people today, wanted stubbornly to remain in darkness
It makes me feel sad for the Pharisees
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Like Anne, I like that picture of the little table set for two. I love to ponder the different testimonies of all of you, and others, about how God you and brought you to faith. I’ve shared that my “love language” is when people spend time with me, giving me their time, it makes me feel loved. God is the ultimate One who knows each person’s “love language”, and He speaks it when He pursues us. So I love the mental picture that picture above gives me of sitting at an intimate little table with the Lord, spending time with Him in conversation. And I know that God used my “love language” when He was drawing me to Himself, stirring up feelings in me of a longing to belong, to be included, to be loved, to be a part of His family.
I think it’s amazing that God is using Dee wherever she goes – the prisons, Curves! The conversation between Dee and Sandi kind of reminded me of the woman at the well and Jesus. The woman keeps Jesus at arm’s length somewhat, talking in a roundabout way about where people worship, etc… until Jesus cuts through the small-talk and directs the conversation to her. I think it feels “safe” to people to talk about those kinds of things – what about other religions, what about people who don’t hear about Jesus – instead of exposing their own heart, getting down to the direct question, how is it with YOU and Jesus? I think because of Dee’s patient listening, Sandi did finally share about how she doesn’t think it’s fair that she would go to hell if she refused Jesus’ forgiveness.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God – not just a prophet, but God? If so, what do you remember?
I was not raised going to church, except some times when I spent the night with my grandparents and my grandma would take me with her. I had a book of Bible stories for children. I don’t know how I knew, but I think I always thought of Jesus as God’s Son.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I’m still trying to read the Henri Nouwen book, but it’s slow-going. I usually don’t have time to read a book until evening and then I fall asleep while trying to read! I will try to discipline myself to spend time each day reflecting on our study and getting it all done. I almost hesitate to make promises to do this or that, because if I fail, ….
If you fail there is grace! Hallelujah! An you are richer for the time you were able to spend pursuing your goal. 🙂
Susan was the Penn State trip a time of bonding for you & your son? Did you have good conversation on the drive?
Thanks, Chris, for the reminder of grace. Yes, we had a nice time together – he is very quiet and reserved now; definitely not the chatterbox he was when he was younger. I used to tell him I was going to buy a book called “The Big Book of Why” for him! But we can just be together, our personalities are both kind of laid back. This was our 2nd trip there; we even have a favorite restaurant we stop at now in Dubois, PA – an Italian restaurant with really good food. We found it the first time last fall.
I love this Susan–you really are such a model for me with your kids–the way you relate with them, respect them. My son is only 5 and I am aching about kindergarten next year because he’s my tag-along buddy..but whenever you talk about you and your son, it helps me a lot–I can imagine (way) down the road and our connection changing, but not ending, growing, it just really helps me to “see” it–thank you.
And it took me FOREVER to get through Nouwen–and that was without a husband or kids, I’m very impressed!
Susan, I can imagine your trip home was bitter sweet…leaving your son. It is a very hard time in our lives.
Joyce – I haven’t had to drop him off yet! He’s a senior in high school and we are visiting colleges – he has to make his decision soon on where to go! But yes, it’s already tugging on my heart to even think about him leaving home!
Our dear friends daughter will be graduating from Penn State this year.
We visted the campus for a weekend, we ate at a few restaurants but hands down my favorite was The Pita Pit!
Penn State has a lovely campus.
Susan – so interesting you should mention the woman at the well. When I would go into Curves, “Sandi” would throw me by asking me sort of nit picky things about the Bible — I see now they were distractions — like the woman at the well…
A. Describe the debate.
Jesus is in the temple saying he is the light of the world and anyone that follows him shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. The Pharisees debate the truth of Jesus’ record and Jesus replies that though he bears record of himself his record is true. When they say he can’t bear witness of himself He says an even bigger statement that the father is his witness. Basically they were in darkness and could not accept any truth or light.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
The light of the world, whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
I know where I came from and where I am going.
I pass judgment on no one.
But if I do judge I stand with the Father, who sent me.
I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me.”
You do not know me or my Father.
If you knew me, you would know my Father also.
I have a question, Dee. What are the leading questions you ask to arouse the interest in people, like the women instructors at Curves? I find it had to even get started and thought if I understood what you mean by “leading questions” it might help.
Yes, I want to hear the answer to that too!
Yes Dee, please tell us more so we can follow your example.
Okay — Diane, Annemeredith, and Kim
I often ask people what they have been thinking a lot about
I ask what they think is important in life
I ask them what they find themselves talking a lot about
I’m trying to get to their hearts — and then I go from there
With “Sandi,” she told me she and her husband are planning to retire and go off in an RV from place to place for the rest of their lives. I asked her if she thought that would be fulfilling long term or if she would weary of it. I asked her where her source of fellowship would be — her stability…
I gave one of the attendants my book on Friendship and we have had some conversations on that — I asked her why she thought women had more pain in their friendships…
I think questions to understand them will lead to other questions to make them probe their souls…
I love this approach. Thank you.
This reminded me of a lady in my church, Kay, who when I am around her asks me questions like, “What is going on in your life, Kim?” Each time she does this I go away thinking how much she cares for me and my family. She follows up with a question related to a previous conversation which tells me she listens when I answer or what I tell has value. She takes time – something we need to learn to do – take time for people. I always go away thinking I am special. At first I wondered why she would start a conversation with me since she is older and an honored person in the church but now I see she has a heart for others. I wanted to share this coming from the other side of the conversation helps me see that these women must feel enormously loved by you, Dee and what better way to lead into the most important question in life…Do you know Jesus?
So good, Dee..
Thanks so much for answering my questions, Dee. I like your probing approach, making them think for themselves about what is most important in their lives, before you talk about Jesus. It’s like preparing the soil for the seed.
My above sentence should say “I find it HARD to even get started …”
1. What stands out to you from the above, and why?
From the story about Sandi, the willingness you had Aunt Dee to pursue her. If I were at Curves, I would be thinking only about myself and getting through my work-out. I think I have a fear of talking to others about Jesus outside of the people I meet at church. Of course, they are pretty safe. 🙂 Praying that Jesus would make me more aware, and if I don’t feel brave enough to speak, that he would show me how to pray for them.
I also was amazed by your point of Jesus saying outlandish things. That “I keep sending prophets and wisemen and you keep killing them.” I love that Jesus is outlandish! I just love Jesus, period. So strong, so bold.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
I don’t think I separated Jesus from God ever. My personal relationship with Him began as a child and deepened after my first son was born. I think I finally began to understand how much He loved me at that time, because of how much I was able to love my son. My son Syd was born missing some fingers on his left hand, and I grieved that and felt responsible. God really ministered to me and showed me just how beautiful His creation in Syd is. And that it was out of my control – his missing fingers.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I like your suggestion! I am still doing facebook occasionally but it’s lost any hold on me. I have friends from all over so it’s fun to connect with them, but I seldom scroll through the newsfeed anymore just to read random stuff. I’m finding I have more peace, more time with Jesus because of it. And I’m still focusing on being healthy rather than just focusing on the scale while doing Weight Watchers. I’ve lost a little more weight but want to focus on walking more and using that time to be alone with God. I’m thankful for this bible study and group of women that I can learn from.
We love having you here too!
I love those outlandish things too — and that He was so bold, Annemeredith.
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
Jesus said He was the Light of the world, that only He and the Father were to judge and did judge. That He bore witness of Himself. The pharisees questioned him on every point.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
“I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” “I judge no one. Yet even if I do judge…for it is not I alone who judge, but I and the Father?” “I bear witness about myself.” “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.”
I think if I heard those things coming from his mouth and I was a pharisee, I would wonder what in the world he was talking about. As a believer and knowing He is God and hearing them in retrospect, it’s easier to believe of course you are God, Light of the World, the only Judge, the only way to the Father. Does that make sense? Hard to put into words. I have to wonder if some of the hearts of the pharisees were stirred or if they were all too hardened to see He was really the Messiah? I can’t imagine being in His presence and not having any sense of that at all.
I have sometimes wondered too if somehow seeing a flesh & blood human standing in front of you claiming deity might not have made trusting the truth of His statements even more difficult somehow than for us.
The other side of that thought is that though the diciples saw Christs humanity up close & personal, they were willing to die as martyrs, declaring that He was who He claimed to be.
That’s an interesting thought.
That is reLly thought provoking and I tend to agree with you. I think it is much easier for us.
Praise & prayer!—I just had a “conversation” with my 8 year old. I didn’t have all the right words, but praying God will use it. This is my (highly emotional) perfectionist and we struggle a bit. Today I had to discipline (really wishing daddy was home) for something clearly done out of defiance. After I told her the discipline, we kept talking and though I had repeatedly said I forgave her, I loved her—this look in her eye was so angry—I asked what is it? She said “I’m just so MAD at myself that I keep messing up! When will I stop?!” (This is my one who recently said she really doesn’t think she needs God on a daily basis). So I shared a “mess up” of mine from work today and how we’ll never stop…I asked her if she’d forgiven herself and she said “NO!” God brought to mind Keller’s Centrality of the Gospel—where he says if we say “I can’t forgive myself”, it means our righteousness is based on self. I’ve gone on too long here, but it ended with me saying—“when you feel so mad at yourself for messing up AGAIN, take all that emotion and use it to tell Him thank you for forgiving you AGAIN.” She smiled and we held hands and she prayed…trickle of ice drops melting off 😉
This is great, Elizabeth! You put it into words your 8 year old daughter can understand!
thank you Susan for the encouragement…I keep thinking of what I could have said “better” but I know it’s not about me at all–thank you Jesus it’s not!
Elizabeth, you did great and it came from your heart, so I’m sure she see’s your walk with Jesus daily and you are such a wonderful examply for your two children!
Wonderful Elizabeth. Cherish these talks with your kids someday they will bear much more fruit than you dreamed possible. I can say this from experience b/c my son’s remind me often of what I told them as children. Just lately my son Kenneth said with a smile, “Remember what mom always said…we’re Taylor’s and Taylor’s aren’t quitters! hehehe.
I think it is neat that you and Rebekah have young ones still at home while you are both becoming so spritually mature.
I feel wistful, wishing I had been farther down the path when I raised mine.
I am sorry Rebecca, I spelled your name wrong!
Chris, I just read this-I usually don’t miss your all’s posts in my e-mail.. it’s o.k. if you spell my name wrong. 😉
Thank you all for the encouragement. But Chris, I can’t be compared to Rebecca–she’s far, far beyond me in wisdom and maturity–all of you are for sure! I am more and more amazed, humbled, at how I used to actually think I had any ounce of spiritual maturity–that was before kids exposed the grossest places of my heart. I thought marriage did that enough! By grace, that older son in me is becoming more and more of the younger–desperate for Him. I am just so thankful, as the Mother Theresa quote you shared reminds us, it is really about me!
Kim–love the family cheer on not quitting–I’ll have to use that one–on myself too! 😉
oops–I meant “it is really ISN’T about me!” :0
Elizabeth, O.k. now I am reading this-girly I am soooo not far beyond you in anything! Especially wisdom. I learn so much from you and the others here! 🙂
Not too long at all. Wonderful conversation, Elizabeth! She is fighting battles you have fought and won.
Elizabeth, Awesome!! His fragrance flowing out of you onto her-so encouraging!
This picture is of Shanon and Jeremy. It was their little girls that I had a picture of before. Shanon is the one who has breast and spine cancer and is only 22 yrs old. Please keep them in your prayers…thank you.
Praying for them and for you, Joyce.
Praying for them two, that the Lord would draw them even closer to Himself.
I’m so sorry Joyce. That is so young. I will be praying for all.
C. What do you think He means by verse 28? (I’m asking because I am puzzled. Does He mean some of them will believe?)
I think so. He says after He is crucified, they will know He is the Messiah—will they believe?–in Acts 2 we know that many who witnessed the crucifixion were saved.
3. Read John 8:31-38; They are trusting in the fact that they are “offspring” of Abraham. Yet what evidence does Jesus give that they are not saved?
They don’t realize they are enslaved and need to be set free. Jesus says they have no room for His Word.
4. Read John 8:39-47
A. Our father is either Satan or God. Find characteristics of each family.
Child of Satan: wants to carry out evil plans; murderers; liars; enslaved to sin
Child of God: loves Jesus; hears His Voice; obeys God; FREE from slavery to sin!
B. Why does Jesus say they do not believe? (vs. 43) What does this mean?
They are unable to hear what He has to say. It was as if He were speaking a foreign language—they were from a different origin and could not understand. I like this perspective too from the Message “You can’t handle it. You’re from your father, the Devil, and all you want to do is please him.”
C. Keller says the real hesitancy to Christ is moral rather than intellectual. People don’t want to give up what they think is freedom. Do you agree with Keller?
Yes. I think the perceived “freedom” is (perceived) control, self-reliance, pride. Moralists believe they can attain righteousness—that they can control the outcome of their life, somehow. To come to Christ would mean admitting that they cannot, it IS a narrow way, but leads to expansive freedom.
D. Give an example of how a surrender to God in any area of your life led to real freedom.
The biggest one for me right now, is continuing to admit my own limitations physically. It’s humbling and I was really hating it, but I am starting to see I really was trying to earn some kind of invisible star…I’m treated no worse for not doing all I was doing. I was the (main) one holding the measuring stick over my head. He loves me despite my messy unmade bed and dishes in the sink. My inability to accept it, was similar to my daughter’s inability to “forgive herself”—my own way of earning my own approval. So instead of beating myself up as lazy and unorganized, I will use that energy to thank Him that He doesn’t “grade” me! I’m already in the family!
OK, here’s an area I want to work on—kind of hate putting it out here, but… listening more to my husband’s desires, especially about family time. For example, by the end of the day, I’m fairly “done” and he is the type who could play games with kids all night—sounds great, but it’s hard when I do not feel like it al ALL, would WAY rather play Scrabble just with him, and then I feel like the bad-cop parent…anyway, the FEW times I agree to his way, it IS fun and God provides the energy…I feel the freedom…just hard to remember it each time it comes up! I know all of you with older kids will tell me to eat it up while I can—I can picture Kim, Susan, Anne, Laura…all of you being far better than I at this…I do like play dough though, for real, love it!
Elizabeth, you are a treasure! Your a wonderful mom! Don’t be so down on yourself. I’m sure there are lots of things that you do better than your husband with the kids:)
I use to love to color eggs, decorate sugar cookies, make May baskets, etc. when the kids were little. They loved it, too and remember alot. My 30 yr old son said he learnt to cook watching me. I didn’t even think he was interested in cooking as a kid! I thought my daughter (33) was learning, but it was my son more interested!! They pick up everything from mom and dad! They grow up so fast, so DO enjoy them all you can now:)
So understand, elizabeth.
More later — parents delayed from Europe due to Dallas storms…
Oh will pray for them to get home quickly and safely! I had assumed they were back by now, bless your heart–you must be exhausted, for a happy reason, I know, but still–praying now!
They are home safely! My daughter Beth came mid-week to help out and was wonderful — so I escaped many times to rest up.
Hats off to all you young Moms! Oh my – I had forgotten how CONSTANT toddlers are.
Oh Elizabeth I love play dough. If you are near Indiana we could have a ply dough day!
An update on Brian, I have been working every evening, so we had not seen him for awhile. His actual court date won’t be until mid May. If he continues to do well the charges will be reduced & will be expugnable. He asked for this because he is considering at some time joining the military. He came for dinner tonight, I made bbq chicken at his request, we had a pleasant time. He is working now at Home Depot. He called on Saturday to apologize that he wouldn’t be coming to church because he had to work. Most encouraging is that he posted on line “I have hurt a lot of people over the last year”. As far as we can tell he is doing much better!
Wonderful update Chris! Will continue to pray–it does sound so hopeful–the Stonecutter isat work in his heart!
Oh, that is encouraging!
I do feel hopeful, he has heard some excellent sermons over the last few weeks.
Isaih 55:10-11 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
My heartfelt thanks to all of you who have prayed for Brian & for Bill & me.
Chris, how beautiful and appropriate this verse is now. Still praying for Brian.
All so beautiful, Chris S.
I agree – this sounds very encouraging, Chris!
Such great news. God is amazing!
Oh Chris, I think our prayer’s are paying off! He sounds like he appreciates you both and is growing up:) Praise God!
That all sounds very hopeful, Chris.
1. Read the dynamite of John 8:12-20.
A. Describe the debate.
Wow… I’ve never really thought about the implications of this. Jesus made a claim about Himself (He is the light of the world); the Pharisees said that he couldn’t make the claim about himself, that he needed someone else to testify on His behalf. (Of course, Jesus could testify on his own behalf because he is “I AM!”) Jesus said that although He could testify on His own behalf, He also had another witness, His Father. So then the Pharisees wanted to know where His father was — so they could confirm (or more likely, dispute) Jesus’ testimony.
I don’t have much experience with the court system, but my TV-informed perception is that when someone is on trial, they may make statements about what did/did not take place. Witnesses typically are other people. But Jesus didn’t need another witness because He is complete, authoritative, and embodies Truth.
B. Who does Jesus think He is? Find several astounding statements and comment on them. (Go slowly.)
Jesus said “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” It is astounding that Jesus claimed to be the light of the world. But, to me, the more specific claim of giving others the light of life seems even more astounding. He is claiming TO GIVE LIFE!
When I’ve heard/read these claims, I’ve tended to skim over them, possibly because I’ve heard them before and have taken them for granted. But I think the real reason is because they seem so obscure; I wasn’t “getting” what His claims meant — the extent of His claims. My friends and relatives don’t talk like that. I suspect that even if I had been alive then, I would have been pretty clueless — maybe would have had an “oh, that’s nice” reaction. But the Pharisees knew what He meant. That’s why they challenged Him.
Then Jesus continued to make astounding statements. The Pharisees were ticked off after Jesus first statement; they would have really gotten in a rage when He continued to make “big” statements: that He didn’t need another witness; He indicated that He wasn’t bound by human standards; that His testimony was valid even if He did use human standards (because His Father would confirm His witness).
This passage has WAY too much in it for me to nod my head and think “oh, that’s nice” about Jesus being the light of the world. Jesus’ statements and the implications of those statements are HUGE. He is claiming to be above human authority, and the Pharisees understand that. Whoa — this is still sinking in; it’s BIG. And it helps me understand why some of my colleagues get so angry about Christianity.
LOVE SEEING IT SINKING IN.
LOVE LOVE IT.
2. I’m getting confused, so will come back to this. But I do have a question. The Pharisees appear to be central figures in the first part of the chapter, but later, the people interacting with Jesus are “the Jews.” So does this mean that both the Pharisees and the “regular” Jews are participating in the conversation? And maybe that the Pharisees’ objections were moral objections, but some of the Jews didn’t understand what He was talking about?
I did find it interesting (later in the passage) that given the history of Israel, the Jews claimed that they had never been slaves to anyone!
I too wondered about the pharisses vs. the Jews. I took it to mean they were the same
1.What stands out to you from the above?
We plant seeds, it is God who reaps the harvest.
2. Can you think of a moment in your life when you began to realize that Jesus might be God — not just a prophet — but God? If so, what do you remember?
When I learned that Jesus was God in the flesh. Jesus was not a new creation, He has always been with God, for He is God.
3. Report on your Lenten discipline. I am going to suggest that this week your discipline be doing all of this lesson! But walk in His Spirit.
I’m doing better with seeing His beauty in others. Family relationships are seeing His healing touch – all praise be to God for that!
2. Read John 8:21-30
A. Find evidence for blindfolds on the Pharisees. Later 🙂
B. What does He tell them they have to do to be saved and how do they respond? (vs. 24-25)
Jesus said that in order to not die in their sins, they had to believe that “I AM”
C. What do you think He means by verse 28? (I’m asking because I am puzzled. Does He mean some of them will believe?)
I’m interpreting it as: Jesus was revealing (lifting up) Himself; some were seeing who He was/is and believing. Those believing could have been “regular” Jews, but some of the Pharisees could have believed, too. The glory of God can penetrate some pretty self-righteous hearts (for which I am very thankful!).
1. The debate is about whether Jesus is the Messiah from God
B. Who does Jesus think He is?
•The light of the world. The world is nothing without light for nothing that is created can be seen if there is no light.
•The light of life. One of the things light symbolizes to me is hope. I think He is claiming to be the hope of life.
•Sent to the world by the Father. He claims to be doing God’s will.
•Judge of the world together with the Father. I had trouble with the word judge in this passage. Here is a definition I found helpful when I looked it up: to form an authoritative opinion. They saw Him as a lowly carpenter because they had no eyes to see the spiritual. They judged by human standards.
•He has the authority to testify about Himself. He is one of the witnesses of the 2 that are necessary for validation. The other is God the Father whom they do not know. Ironic that God is the author of this law and they will not accept Him as a witness.
2. Read John 8:21-30 Find evidence for blindfolds on the Pharisees.
•They look for the Messiah, but even standing before Him they are not able to see Him. V.21
•They did not know that He was speaking to them about God whom they claimed to know. V. 27
B. He told them that they must believe in Him to be saved.
C. What do you think He means by verse 28? Dee, this is the same question I had when I read this verse. He tells them that at the crucifixion they will know who He is. Maybe some will trust in Him for salvation but I think He is saying that the blindfold will be removed. They will know who He is but whether they come to saving faith is unknown.
Interesting interpretation of C. I think i’m puzzled because if they know who He is…then wouldn’t they be saved? Perhaps not. The demons believe and tremble… is that where you are headed?
That is what I am thinking. Possibly many repented and were saved but not all for He said that they would die in their sins. Another thought I have is that He was confronting their idols and their response was murderous.