When I read the book of Acts and other accounts of the early Christians,
I am struck by the boldness of believers in the face of such terrible persecution.
They would not stop preaching Christ and Him crucified,
and thousands were added to the faith daily.
Indeed, as Tertullion said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.”
The early Christians would not back down and deny their faith,
despite the fact that they knew it was likely to lead to martydom.
I still remember touring the catacombs in Rome with my parents when I was ten, with my dad telling me that is where the Christians hid and continued to worship.
I marveled. I believe it was for me one of the seeds that eventually burst into faith.
Colin Smith says conservative estimates show 4,000 believers dying for their faith yearly today. Mindy Belz, of The World and Everything in It, says the press is simply not reporting it. Tim Keller says that Christianity moves away from wealth, and the Christians in our wealthy land feel self-sufficient so passion is lacking. So many of our churches and believers are lukewarm. Colin Smith wrote:
When God’s people are cold, confused, and compromised, reflecting little of their Father, the world will often ignore them, but when Christians get serious about pursuing righteousness, mercy, purity and peace, they will get under the skin of godless people and find themselves facing trouble. Why?
We do have mild persecution here. We may be scorned, or lose our jobs, or our liberties if we are truly living for Him. Persecution for righteousness sake is a result of living out the Beatitudes.
I have experienced mild persecution, and even mild persecution hurts and in it I must remember the promises in the Beatitudes of how God looks with favor when we don’t shrink back as victims, putting our light under a bushel.
Last year I was excited to bring my book “Idol Lies” to a small group of men and women, for in the past it had always been received well and we saw major life changes. But this time there was a very vocal dissenter. Each week he had a new strong objection: He felt the topic was just for women, he didn’t like to study passages in the Old Testament, he didn’t like word pictures — but the hardest week of all was when we delved into the good fruit suffering could produce. I shared how my children and I had grown through Steve’s death. He was enraged! He had suffered a lot, and he felt nothing good had ever come out of it. The whole session was dominated by his anger and I went home and wept.
This is mild persecution compared to what happens in many countries, yet it still hurt. But I also could see that my battle was not against flesh and blood but against the rulers of darkness. That helped me have compassion on this man and stay the course: returning good for evil, love for hate, and truth for lies. It wasn’t easy, but the promises of Jesus to remain true in the face of persecution helped me so much. And a dear man in our group told me, “I pray for __________ every night, that Jesus will turn his heart of stone to a heart of flesh.”
This week we will see how if you are truly living for Christ, you will suffer, and if you aren’t suffering, you are not living godly, you are not letting your light shine, or you are not sharing the good news of the Gospel.
And to those who are suffering, you will see why you can rejoice and be so glad.
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126)
Monday: All Who Live Godly Lives Will Be Persecuted
Colin Smith says there are two kinds of persecution: of the hand and of the tongue. In the Western world it is still primarily not physical, but verbal. We are scorned, insulted, and maligned.
3. Meditate on 2 Tim. 3:12
A. What does this verse say?
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response?
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
Tuesday: Blessed Are You If You Suffer For What Is Right
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12.
A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted?
B. How is this Beatitude different from the others?
Recently we discussed sharing our faith in our home church of The Orchard. Many are sharing, and are doing so gently, but still have suffered rebuke and insults. One man grieves that his son and his wife will not allow them to share with their grandchildren. One woman, when she invited a neighbor to our Christmas Tea was coldly told, “We are not THOSE kind of people.”
All this hurts — and it is persecution. Peter tells us that we suffer, it should not be for sin (or for being obnoxious) but for doing right, for gently speaking the truth in love.This is such an important passage.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.)
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how?
Wednesday: Stay or Flee?
In the rest of the world, missionaries often face extremely hostile situations and must decide whather God is calling them to stay or flee. A movie that was so stirring about this was Of Gods and Men. Here’s the trailer:
Godly people have made both choices — and we must listen to the Spirit in such cases and to the strength of our hearts.
In the Western world it may involve giving up a job in order to maintain your Christian principles or fighting to change their policies.
Sometimes it is the choice to keep sharing our faith or to move to more fertile soil. I was in a summer book club with many wealthy women who had summer homes on my road, but in fifteen years, though I read many of their choices that were hostile to Christianity, they would never vote for my choices. I could handle their subtle shunning, but I finally realized I was scattering seed on cement. The Spirit led me to move on.
7. Why did most of the believers flee after the stoning of Stephen? (Acts 8:1-2) What good came from that?
8. Why, despite opposition, did Paul decide to stay in Ephesus according to 1 Corinth. 16:8-9? What good came from that?
9. Challenge Question: The following two verses may seem like a contradiction.
A. What does Matthew 10:14 say?
B. What does Ecclesiastes 11:6 say?
C. How does you resolve the apparent contradiction?
D. How do you know whether to shake the dust off your feet or keep sowing your seed?
10. Have you been kissed by the King recently? If so, how?
Thursday-Friday: Keller Sermon
11. We finished the Momentum series last week, but Keller has a great sermon on the final beatitude. Listen and share your notes and thoughts.
Saturday:
12. Name two particular Beatitudes that are impacting you and why.
We are going to continue in The Sermon on the Mount next week with a new study. Next week I’ll send out a letter in hopes you will pass it on to friend. My plan is to keep the homework reasonable as I know many of you are beginning fall studies. The Sermon on the Mount is so rich, we will move through it slowly, taking Matthew 5 up to the holidays.
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1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The angry man in your Bible study. Why would he continue to go week after week if he didn’t agree with what he was studying? Unless he was forced to go for some reason.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126) My grandchildren fill me with laughter. When I start to feel the slightest bit of depression, I think about how I have been blessed with a great relationship with my daughters in law and that I can spend as much time as I’d like with my grandkids. And they do make me happy!
Logical question, Dawn. My theory is that he dearly loves his wife and he knew his wife wanted him there.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? Dee-please make the study of the Beatitudes your next book! I so hope you do for most of us haven’t really understood, for example, why they are ordered the way they are for one leads to another..you can’t start in the middle..and I learned what mourning means-mourning our sin and am learning so much more. Trying to memorize them. Hence, what stood out to me was, Persecution for righteousness sake is a result of living out the Beatitudes. This stood out as an encouragement because I tend to think I have failed miserably with my oldest two sons. I am mildly persecuted more in my home with my oldest son ( due to his Aspergers-ocd passion, and satan) than I have been at work or anywhere else. I think because of Christ in us the Gospel has been lived and poured out onto our children since the day they were born. When satan and the world got a hold of his heart he started growing more upset when our faith would flow out. I did walk back from verbalizing and discussing around him after a while because his heart wasn’t ready to hear but I am praying-BEST thing I can do-and hoping the seeds that have been planted, as Dee said, would burst into faith some day. It is painful I must say..an ongoing pain.. but God is faithfully being my comforter. 🙂
Oh Rebecca — so glad this is encouraging to you in the face of really hard and personal persecution.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126). This is strange but in and through the valleys I have been experiencing He has been filling my mouth with laughter the past few weeks and He is my joy. I have been through a tough trial since May of this year and others have added on. All I can say is that suffering is what causes me to see the things inside I couldn’t otherwise see. Helps me see my idolatry when I try to find comfort elsewhere or control when I try to fix things I can’t. It has helped me turn more and trust and cling to Him. He is widdling away at my insides through suffering and makeing what is awful beautiful. So I trust He will make my heart, out these current trials, more beautiful. This sounds awful that He would do that-as that angry man said in Dee’s post-but oh it is the opposite. I have found the worst suffering doesn’t come from any losses here on earth but the loss of intimacy with God-or as I like to say-the rock in the stream for the joy the things and people of htis earth bring are like dirt compared to His everlasting joy..Yet, I have only scratched the surface of the fullness of His joy. I have a LOT more growing to do for I am a mess! I hope I explained that okay.
Love love your heart — and that the worst suffering is missing His presence.
I agree that it is suffering to not sense His presence.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I hesitate to call it persecution, and yet in some ways I do think I may be experiencing mild persecution. Still I am humbled by those who give their life for the Gospel, and the true persecution they endure. Their confidence in Him must be so sure, so secure, so unwavering. It is that that I want—to be able to know that still small voice amidst all the rejecting voices, to be so assured of His presence and His leading that I am nourished by it, strengthened, untouchable.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126)
I’m not thinking of one specific time, but more the way He has brought the gifts of certain friends, of community—to be family to me– I know I am not worthy of them,but they are His mercies to me, and reminders that He sees, He loves.
Monday: All Who Live Godly Lives Will Be Persecuted
Colin Smith says there are two kinds of persecution: of the hand and of the tongue. In the Western world it is still primarily not physical, but verbal. We are scorned, insulted, and maligned.
3. Meditate on 2 Tim. 3:12 A. What does this verse say?
Everyone who wants to live a godly life will be persecuted. Wow.
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
Such good reminder questions–and to walk into the act of living godly, dying to self, and sharing my faith expecting persecution rather than fearing it.
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response?
In one circumstance, it’s hard to know if it is persecution, but it is full rejection from believers, from my sisters—and at it’s core, for a decision that I did feel God was leading me to, a decision made from a heart’s desire to follow Him and die to self. My response has been a lot of things. At times I have wanted to crawl in a ball and beg for Him to come and take us all Home. I have been confused, very self-condemning at times, but more recently, though the situation hasn’t changed, the rejection continues, but He has granted me peace. He brought me to a place of pitying my offender—they must have turmoil over their actions, and I grieve that for them. He has brought me to pray for them, and not just for their conviction of sin. He has given my heart peace, trusting He has it, He will take care of it, and I only need to stay the path He has called me to.
3. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
Maybe this peace I speak of above. Also, He is reminding me that amidst the rejection I’ve faced past and present, which serve to remind me of my unworthiness, He reminds me I am chosen, I am His–1 Peter 2: 9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
It’s the truth of this balance—I am completely unworthy, and yet I am treasured because of the value placed on me at the Cross. I tend to get the first half fairly well, but I feel He is reminding me of His choosing me, the worth I have because I am who He says I am, not who “they” say I am.
Lizzy, the rejection you’ve endured because of your decision to do what you believe God called you to do has been so painful and hard, yet you keep working through it as much as you can on your side, even in your attitude towards your sisters. It’s also sad that they are missing out on being a part of your beautiful family.
Lizzy — what you are experiencing, because it is for righteousness sake, is definitely persecution. So you can rejoice and be glad for great is your reward. And so good He has brought you to the point of pitying them. There is obviously brokenness there.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The man in your group who was very vocal in his dissent, week after week, and expressed anger. Even though you (Dee) felt persecuted, I wonder why he returned each week, instead of dropping out. And, the fact that he felt safe to express his emotions, even rage and anger. Perhaps God was doing a work in his heart; perhaps he needed to express these emotions and feelings, and it may have left a lasting impact on him that he was not rejected for doing so.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.”
When I look back on the times God has met me, I don’t identify with “laughter” (maybe because I’m a more serious person?) but I see how He met me through a friend, family member, companionship, the love of family, or bringing a sense of lightness or new hope.
3. Meditate on 2 Timothy 3:12
A. What does this verse say?
It says that everyone who wants to live a godly life (in Christ) will be persecuted. I find it interesting that Paul uses the word “wants”, instead of saying, “everyone who lives a godly life”. Because I know that I fall short of living a godly life, but I have the desire to do so.
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
I used to endure more verbal persecution in the past, when my boys were in high school and college. When one of my sons started walking away from the faith, he would say very cutting things to me, like I was the different one in the family. My husband also was more vocal against my faith, but it was because we disagreed a lot about “religion”. But now my sons are grown and gone from the home, and my husband doesn’t really bother me anymore about it. But I’ve also learned that I cannot argue anyone into believing, so I gave that up.
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response?
As I said above, the persecution mostly came from within my own family. I guess my response was to back-off. When one of my children would say they felt like I was preaching at them, I realized I must be doing something wrong. I guess I was not being “winsome”. I can’t remember a time when I was ever persecuted at work or by a stranger.
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
I’m doing a lot of pondering and reflecting lately, and reading Brennen Manning’s Abba’s Child, and Parker Palmer’s On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity, and Getting Old, and Dee’s new book. I know that I am searching and wanting more….of what, I’m not yet sure. Maybe it’s just wanting a deeper experience of God. I am getting back in the habit of attending church, not just my ladies class, but staying for the worship service, which I’m still kind of struggling with as I do not relate to the loud, hand-clapping worship music because it’s not how I’m feeling on the inside. I have good days, and not so good days, as I am adjusting to having no children at home anymore. I really miss the companionship of my daughter.
I don’t know Parker Palmer — who is he?
I think the man stayed because of love for his wife. But now they have both left and are going nowhere. I had her over and shared my thoughts with her for I think they love each other dearly, more than God. I could be wrong but I pray.
Dee, I learned of Parker Palmer when he was a guest on Anita Lustrea’s podcast. He is now 80 years old, an activist and founder of an organization called The Center For Courage and Renewal, a Quaker, author, teacher. She had him as a guest to discuss the book I’m currently reading.
I know that in facing my challenges over the past year, I have seen that I want to know God more. He is my peace.
Praying for you, Susan. Keep seeking your Prince of Peace.
I have found that some of the best therapy for self-pity is reading of and hearing of Christians suffering around the world. I have made it a point to keep up with the suffering of Christians, to keep it in front of me for a frequent reminder of those who are giving all for His dear Name. And what am I doing for Him? He must be so very ashamed of me at times. Yesterday was my daughter’s birthday and she wanted a spa treatment. I found a new place close to our house, run by Mainland Chinese who barely spoke English. I myself worked for a season in China so my mind began to wander as I was surrounded by them. As we got our pampering session, my mind jumped somehow (out of the blue) to the story of John and Betty Stam. Crazy me, but I just found my mind re-enacting the scene of their beheading on a hillside in China, even while I was being massaged. They were an ordinary young couple who gave their all and left a helpless baby hidden. The scene in my mind was gruesome and gave me the chills. It seems this happened on another planet! This is so very different from the life I desire as a Christian – everything going my way, being loved, having a good job, obedient and loving Christian children, good family relationships, a house where nothing ever breaks down, a wonderful church family and pastor, good food, healthy bodies……………..meanwhile a helpless babe cries in the night as her parents heads are severed from their bodies. All for the sake of the Crucified! I’m not trying to be dramatic. This is REAL stuff that happened to REAL followers of Jesus Christ – the same Lord I follow! Oh, I know nothing of carrying my cross on the blood-stained Calvary way! I plan to bring a Chinese Bible the next time we go.
Oh Miriam — I read their biography. So stirring.
Miriam,
This is so amazing. I want to read this story. I agree with you. My struggles are nothing compared to those suffering persecution. I pray courage for you to bring the Bible and engage with these people. Don’t wait for your next spa treatment. The Lord has laid this on your heart for a reason. He opens our minds to these things. Praying for your witness to be effective.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
“…we will see how if you are truly living for Christ, you will suffer, and if you aren’t suffering, you are not living godly, you are not letting your light shine, or you are not sharing the good news of the Gospel.”
I know the Christian life is not a walk in the park or a bed of roses. But oh I so wish that my trials or of those I love would not be so hard. And when those trials come in the form of persecution, I get surprised or confused. It is good to be reminded here that persecution will come to the child of God and to be ready for it. And to ask the Holy Spirit to guide and to comfort and to give strength when needed. I am claiming God’s promises of victory in Jesus and to put on Ephesians 6 armor of God.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126)
A recent time when my mouth was filled with laughter was when my husband texted me a picture of him and my daughter, Ruth together at the Flight museum in Seattle. He flew to WA to have time with her. Then some more pictures of their times together for 4 days. I am grateful that through the hard times of raising our daughter and her being a prodigal right now, God has kept our bond as a family. We have not allowed the maneuverings of the enemy to let us give up on our daughter. I see love penetrating my daughter’s heart and I pray I will see God’s goodness in the land of the living through her homecoming to our Abba. In your perfect time, Lord.
I too have felt led specifically to pray on God’s armor each day. Thanks for including that as my reminder for this morning!
1. What stood out? Colin Smith saying “when Christians get serious about pursuing righteousness, mercy, piety, and peace, they will get under the skin of godless people and find themselves facing trouble…” And what you said, Dee, “persecution for righteousness sake is a result of living out the Beatitudes “. And then the man’s anger. I think the key is the fact that he felt betrayed by God. He said he had suffered a lot and nothing good ever came from it. He showed his anger to you, but it was really God he was angry with. You were just in the way, representing God. Maybe he was also ‘punishing’ his wife for making him come. I got that from something you said later in the comments.
2. Share a time God has been faithful to me and filled my mouth with laughter.
I had trouble coming up with this. I wonder if I’ve taken those times so for granted that I can’t see them in retrospect? I did think about how difficult it was raising our son, even into his late 20’s. And then he met his wife and made a completely good turn. Yes, we laughed with joy over how good God has been to us with her.
Interesting thoughts, Mary. Yes, he is angry at God. That is clear.
3. Meditate on 2 Tim. 3:12
A. What does this verse say? Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
So good to ask myself these questions!
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response?
In the past few years I have experienced very very light persecution at work however I do remember a long time ago I experienced mild persecution at work (and this was when I was a fairly new believer and single-so a LONG time ago). I had great conversations with a few friends I made there and dating and sex came up and they asked me about it and over time they knew I was waiting until I got married which they thought was ridiculous.
So there was a time I refused to falsify records before an audit. I was called into my bosses office and he asked me why I wouldn’t do it. I said by virtue of a clean conscience I can’t do it for I am a Christian and don’t want to grieve God. He became angry and said, “Well maybe you just need to __ __ (a sexual remark for word must have gotten around). Maybe that will loosen you up up a little. I will have to let you go if you don’t. ” I said, then you will have to let me go. He didn’t fire me but I found another job quickly.
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
Oh my..through my husband. God is so growing him and changing him, and me too. My husband works 80 hours a week and really who wouldn’t struggle going in and out of the wilderness, (you all have heard about my long wilderness time) and with all the stressors we have on our plate but God is doing a work in his heart. I am seeing changes that seem to be sticking. He said that he has experienced God’s Grace and love through me over the years and especially lately and he is so thankful. (It is Jesus, not me, but that was so encouraging to hear. Only God can stir a heart with His love for Human love is beautiful but not as powerful.)
Never heard the story about the audit. So proud of you.
Yay to the change in your hubby! And to think it has everything to do with your modeling and not speaking! So encouraging to me.
Laura-thanks so for the encouragement! I can relate too-to your story with your daughter in so many ways with my oldest two with Autism. I am giving it more time with my husband to see if indeed it is real but it seems to be so far. 🙂 Even if it isn’t, God is in control, not me. I am a work in progress that is for sure and one of the most painful things God is teaching me this year is letting go of others..giving them to Him, so when I have done all I can-hopefully not going overboard into idolatry of course, but speaking the truth in love..I have been letting it go and trustingGod with their hearts. I can’t persuade hearts to turn to Jesus..He has shown me this in a MIGHTY way over the years. Can’t believe how sheepish I am-well I can..I mean why would it have to take all these years since 1988 when He captured me and I surrendered my life-knowing it was all Him and not me to see that it is all Him and not me with other’s hearts too! That goes to show you how much more work He has to do in me!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I have thought about this often over the past years; was I living up to the challenge of being a Christian? It brings back the event at my school last spring when the chick-fil-a company was banned from fundraisers with our school. I took great offense to that and decided to go talk to the superintendent. After that we had another incident with a student flying the blue police flag, and this school year some of us have students who we are told we can’t use “he” or “she” to describe them, just “they.” What? This is ridiculous! I never went to speak to the super after mulling this over this summer. I spoke to several people who know him better than I and decided to cool off and plan my meeting better.
My husband read an article this past week where an Ohio girl got suspended for posting bible verses, but others students were allowed to post gay flags all around the school. I have actually had a student(s) do this in the past at our school as well. They did get in trouble, as she did, for not getting prior approval. In this girls case, she says people post things on post it notes all the time without permission. I like how she stands up and asks the principal why when anything has to do with God the school gets defensive.
https://leadpatriot.com/watch-teen-suspended-over-bible-verse-what-the-school-approved-will-make-your-blood-boil/1199/
I have decided to go speak to our district’s financial officer because she was my director for years and I know her well. I feel like I can trust her to listen and be fair. I will calmly tell her how each incident has made me feel and then explain that it is not just me who is a Christian in the district who might be taking offense. I don’t think anything will come of my complaint; what I want is fairness. We live in America where we have “choices.” If people don’t like chick-fil-a, they don’t have to eat there. If the police flag bothers you then ignore it. My issue with the gender thing is that I believe the idea of changing your gender is an adult topic. We are called to protect children as teachers when they are in our care. I don’t believe calling them a different pronoun, or being part of a game where they manipulate their parents into getting what they want, is protecting children. These kids need heavy counseling for sure. When they are 18 they can do what they want. I don’t want to be part of any of that, I just want to teach.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126)
I guess it’s not just one event, rather many small ones that surprise me. That’s what I love! I pray and wait. He answers and I am taken off guard that the answer to my prayer was shown to me. If I remember these times I have hope for the future ones as well. I can’t wait to see how He moves in Sarah’s life; the prayer of all prayers.
If I had to pick one “event” it was probably the birth of my children. What a miracle; and to be a part of it….just wow.
Hard time to be a teacher, for certain!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The picture of the catacombs…maybe because they look like the lonely places in my life right now…but are a reminder that these are places of worship. I’ve been reading Shelly Miller’s book Rhythms of Rest and a sentence in Chapter 11 says “Moses reminds us that what enervates in the wilderness, God redeems as preparation for receiving his blessing…”. (The word enervate means to exhaust, weary, devitalize or drain.)
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126). He has proven faithful so many, many times in my life. Like some of you who post here, I suffered from infertility. Yet, God in his sovereignty gave me 2 sons. That season of infertility has borne much fruit in my life in many ways ever since.
3.a. The verse says those who desire or want to live a godly life will be persecuted, or will suffer. The Phillips translation says “persecution is inevitable for those who are determined to live really Christian lives.”I got the word picture of a canoe trying to go upstream in a strong current. It is hard going. The water is ‘persecuting’ you, wanting you to go it’s way.
b. Am I living a godly life? Is that the same as asking if I am living a holy life? One set apart for God and His purposes? By outward appearances, mostly. But inside there is so much of me that should be Him. Am I dying to self? In small, isolated areas, yes. Overall it’s hard for me to see progress. For every ‘thing’ I bring under His blood, five more pop up. Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others? This is the bullseye. I don’t. When I was a new Christian, I did it all the time and didn’t even know I was doing it. Then I got ridiculed and mocked. And I let my canoe start to drift instead of setting my resolve on going forward with Jesus.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The picture of the Christians huddled in a circle in the coliseum and the lion being released to eat them! I can’t even imagine their fear and maybe in their humanness are having doubts but it looks like one person is standing up…is that person praying, leading them in singing or sharing stories of Gods faithfulness? It reminds me that we are not alone…yes we always have God with us but we also have each other to encourage us in our faith.
2. Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when He “filled your mouth with laughter. (Psalms 126)
God has been faithful in my life in so many ways that filled my mouth with laughter. He sent me a godly man to be my husband, gave me two beautiful children and grandchildren, brought us safely through many hurricanes and restoration and has gone before us in so many major decisions. “Yes, The LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy!” Psalm 126:3
Sunday:
What stands out to you from the above and why? – I love the reminders of how to stand strong in the midst of persecution and times that others may not see what you are actually seeing. I have passed Idol Lies around to those are interested once I comment about what truly are idols and even in a mix crowd, they have all been receptive and wanted to read it. It’s sad to me how some can be so negative and angry all the time. I can see it with one of my sisters, that for some reason doesn’t like me from what I’m told. So sad to know we were brought up in the same house, by the same parents and she cannot show love or compassion to others. I pray I can find out some day what is so deeply embedded in her heart.
Often, when life is hard, it is so important to remember the way God has been faithful to you in the past. Share a time when he “filled your mouth with laughter.” (Psalm 126) – I was newly divorced, selling real estate as my career with two young kids. I had to sell our home because I could not afford it and had been crying out to God for help. Well one weekend, I showed and sold the most expensive house I had shown while selling and my house had gotten an offer on it that same day. My cries had been heard and He helped me through that rough time of thinking I was going to lose everything. God is SO GOOD!!!
Wow Julie! I love the story of the houses! I don’t understand the angry/negative people either 🙁 I think my own children are that way to each other. I don’t get it! Welcome back! I’ve missed you.
Hi Laura, I missed all of you Ladies as well. Got new hours at work 6am-2:30pm so up at 4 and to bed early. Had to figure out how to adjust my time.
Oh wow! I could never work those hours….hope adjustment is made and you are well!
3. Meditate on 2 Tim. 3:12
A. What does this verse say?
If you follow Jesus you will be persecuted.
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
I’m supposing you mean suffering because of being a Christian? I am definitely suffering in life, but I haven’t suffered much for being a follower of Christ. I suppose I don’t like being judged by others because of what some Christians have done (much more conservative than myself). I’m feeling like I don’t matter at my place of business (I described above). I also see Christianity dwindling here in America. It is sad. Incidentally, I met with the director this afternoon and although it was a very sweet discussion, I’m not sure anything will come of it except “… professional development around these issues…” meaning (I’m sure) PD that expects everyone to conform. It is a sad state of affairs. I hope I can last three more years!
I’m trying to live Godly and die to self, however I am human and continually fail. I am better at sharing my faith with others.
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response?
As I said above, by sharing my faith I have been judged as not caring about others. Just because I don’t believe in homosexual life styles doesn’t mean I don’t love the person. I love my daughter and totally disagree with her path of life.
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
He is consistently blessing our family over and over again with the toddlers. If you recall, we were searching for some help in pre-school expenses and sure enough we have received more than we could have imagined. It pains me to accept it from the state, but we have no choice as both kids would cost us $2000 per month. Thank You God for always taking care of us.
After reading Susan’s post I realized how my daughter and her boyfriend (especially him) ranted about us in court many times; how we had an evil home, were not really Christians, and called us many names. How sad that was for us.
Indeed, Laura, you have been and are persecuted for His sake.
5. Matt 5:11-12. I gather that being like the persecuted prophets is considered by Paul as a great honor, and the culture of his day agreed with that. It is a lot harder for us to agree today, especially in our western world. Today people go back in history searching for reasons to destroy the reputations of our founding fathers.
a. Jesus promises great reward in heaven. Not on earth.
b. All the other Beatitudes are a positive thing you choose to do. This last one is a consequence of what you are. It happens to you.
You make an important note, Dee, that our suffering should not be for our sin. I can think of plenty who complain at church that they are persecuted for their faith, but truth is that they are in the wrong. They may be lazy, obnoxious, content to gossip about others or willing to compromise with evil.
6. 1 Peter 3:8-17. If it is God’s will for you to suffer…. By implication, it isn’t always God’s will behind all of our suffering. Yet I think it true that living a truly holy life leads to persecution, instead of living pain free. Jesus suffered because it was God’s will for Him. Can it be any less true for us as His followers?
a. How can we expect to be exempt from suffering when our Lord, the only completely innocent man to ever walk the earth, suffered?
b. The face of God is against those who do evil. That means if our hearts are moving toward anything but Him, His face gets set against us. Vs 13, there are some who do harm even if we do good to them. Suffering when you are in the right has rewards on this earth and for eternity. Now we have God’s presence and the hope of His promises. Then we will have great reward and the comfort of God. Paul says don’t let the fact that you’ll be persecuted get to you. Don’t give fear a place in you. Choose instead to rehearse how to answer people when you are questioned for ‘the reason for the hope that you have’. Choose to always here Christ enthroned in your life. Be gentle and respectful in answering those who abuse you because of Christ. The time to decide to stand firm is now, not then. Be holy and love people so that there isn’t much to say against you. Be a Daniel. If Christ thought it worthwhile to suffer and tells us to expect the same, we need to see the suffering as worthwhile, just as He did.
Dee, in number 8 under Wednesday, I think the reference might be wrong. It didn’t talk about Paul staying in Ephesus.
Good catch, Mary. It’s 1 Corin 16 — thanks.
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12.
A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted?
Our reward is heaven.
B. How is this Beatitude different from the others?
He (Jesus) says to be happy about the persecution and remember His followers who were also persecuted before us.
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12.
A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted? Blessed are the persecuted for their reward will be great in heaven.
B. How is this Beatitude different from the others? This is us pointing others to Jesus- so this is the outflow of our heart to those around us. The other Beatitudes are the steps which lead to this- so the Beatitudes need to be happening inside in order to be able to share.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20. No servant is greater than his master (so I shouldn’t expect not to be persecuted for I am Jesus’ servant.) If they persecuted Jesus they will persecute me. If they obey His teaching they will obey His teaching through me too.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.) so much here. One thing captured my attention (verse 18) which captures the whole passage.
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how?
So here is how God is quickening me. Jesus suffered on the cross-the righteous for the unrighteous –to bring me to God, he was put to death in the body but made alive in the spirit. I see this laying down his life, his rights to bring me to God and God wants me to do the same for others. I am his servant and my master has suffered severe persecution, am I better than He to not suffer persecution? No way! So if I am not, then there is something going on inside that isn’t right because the Beatitudes are all about dying to self and as a result more of His light shines from me onto others-they will be more attracted to Him.
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12. A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted?
Their reward will be great in Heaven. I think too of 2 Cor. 4:17-“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” I love the faithfulness, justice, mercy of our God.
B. How is this Beatitude different from the others?
The first 7 Beatitudes show us the life we are called to, how we are to live, and the last describes the result one faces after pursuing this godly life. As 2 Tim. 3:12 says, everyone who wants to live a godly life will be persecuted.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20-Christ is our model. If we are truly living like Him, we should expect to be treated as He was, and be persecuted.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.)
How we suffer is so important. We must guard against becoming hardened and bitter so that God can use our suffering for His glory and purpose. Watch my words, against gossip and slander; seek and pursue peace. If I face suffering in my pursuit of following Christ, I can have peace that he sees me, He hears my prayers, and He blesses me. I have nothing to fear. But I must keep Christ in my heart and be able to give an answer for the hope I have, with gentle words and with respect. Suffering for following Christ brings me into deeper relationship with Him, as I share in His sufferings.
Good about not getting hardened and embittered during suffering, Lizzy.
3. Meditate on 2 Tim. 3:12
A. What does this verse say? – I see from this that we should not be surprised when people come against us for being Christians. There will be people who just don’t like me because of who I follow and believe in. As hard as that still is, I need to just continue to love unconditionally and plant seeds of life in them.
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others? – I can say there is definitely room for improvement.
C. How have you suffered persecution and what has been your response? – I have had false things said about me to others that don’t even really know me. I was upset and wanted an apology said, but none came. I decided I could stay bitter against that person, who didn’t even know that I was and wasn’t affected by how I felt, perhaps because they don’t know the Lord so they weren’t bothered by my feelings. I felt a sense of peace come over me as I was thinking about the situation, and decided in my own heart to forgive them and not to expect an apology. I am working on letting it go.
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently? – I was having car issues and thought it may be the battery so we brought it to a auto store and were told the battery to my car was still pulling a charge and was ok, but my car continued to not start after hooking it back up. We ended up bringing the car in to the dealer I bought it from and thought we would have a pricey electrical issue to repair, but GOD…It was just the battery. Thank you Lord.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.)
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how?
It is best to do good so people can see your “face of Jesus.” It is so hard sometimes. The people of the world want to believe we (Christians) are the bad people because we actually uphold our faith. The world doesn’t like what we represent and I am not so gentle when I discuss what our faith is. I don’t like being told I have to conform to the world view when I have a different outlook. I understand what Peter is saying but I’m not sure how to play it out the way he wants us to. I may have to quit my job because I can’t conform to the secular view we are being forced to maintain. I can’t pretend, it’s not who I am. Dear Jesus help me understand.
Praying for you, Laura, that for whatever window closes for you, God will fling open a door. Sending you a hug….
Thanks Mary. I am working through this awkward situation we, as teachers, have been given. Everywhere around me says “be kind.” I will be kind.
Monday
3. Meditate on 2 Timothy 3:12
A. What does this verse say?
The Amplified: “Indeed, all who delight in pursuing righteousness and are determined to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be hunted and persecuted (because of their faith).”
B. If you are not suffering, ask yourself these three questions: Am I living godly? Am I dying to self? Am I winsomely sharing my faith with others?
Good and convicting questions.
C. How have you suffered persecution and what is been your response?
I cant say I have. I know I have felt disdain at times and have just brush it off.
4. How have you seen God at work in your life recently?
He has shown me the sin of pride in my life through not wanting the help of others and getting irritated when I do need help. He is and has humbled me in accepting help graciously, reminding me to respond with thanksgiving rather than being angry. I’m realizing that the older I get the more help I need in doing certain things…ugh!
Tuesday
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12
A. What promise did Jesus give the persecuted?
Blessed by God and a great reward waiting in heaven for us.
B. How is this beatitude different from the others?
The thing that stood out to me was rather that saying “God blesses those” it says “God blesses you” in verse 11. He’s taken it to a personal level for the disciples. There’s an actual reward rather than just a promise and I think this Beatitude is a result of what we can expect when the first 7 are lived out.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20
Since Christ was persecuted, naturally we’ll be persecuted…a slave isn’t greater than his master.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can)
Keep our tongue from evil and our lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil, do good. Search for peace, work to maintain it. God will reward if we suffer for doing what is right. Don’t worry or be afraid of threats. Worship Christ as Lord of your life. Always be ready to explain your hope as a believer. Do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep a clear conscience so when people speak against you they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Better to suffer for doing good, if that’s what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above? If so, how?
Its no coincidence that I just started studying Daniel and this Beatitude pops up now. Daniel and his three friends didn’t compromise their faith and I see each of them walking according to the above 1 Peter passage. They each were persecuted and God brought them through. This subject of persecution is scary to me but I see more and more that it is inevitable that I will suffer in one way or another for Christ. Verse 12 of Matthew 5 says “Be happy about it! Be very glad!” I need to look at it as an honor and privilege to be persecuted for Christ and not fear!
Good illustration of rejoicing amidst
persecution from Daniel!
7. I have the mindset that persecution is always bad and to be avoided, or that it is for other people, times or places. God is tugging at me that I have it all wrong. He is saying that my canoe needs to buck the trends of our day out of the same love and obedience He had. Not looking to make persecution happen, but that if or when it does come, He sees it as a positive, and as worthwhile.
the movie trailer made me cry. I am so weak and full of self. To see such courage, resolve and love is sobering.
Why did most flee in Acts 8? A combination, I think, of trying to save their lives but also being moved by God in order to spread the faith. It also opened the door to Gentiles. Otherwise, Christianity could have imploded in Jerusalem as a Jewish sect only. And not all left. Some stayed.
I think one strong evidence for the truth of Christianity is that movement — that it isn’t still primarily just in the area it was born, as is true of other world religions. I liked your point about how it could have been just a Jewish sect in Jerusalem. Yes, I’m sure they fled out of fear, but then as you say, they kept sharing!
7. Why did most of the believers flee after the stoning of Stephen? (Acts 8:1-2) What good came from that?
They were being persecuted. No good came; they were scattered but still searched out.
8. Why, despite opposition, did Paul decide to stay in Ephesus according to 1 Corinth. 16:8-9? What good came from that?
He wanted to continue to share. He had many who were interested in the faith. Is this where he was imprisoned?
9. Challenge Question: The following two verses may seem like a contradiction.
A. What does Matthew 10:14 say?
We are to leave a place that doesn’t offer hospitality, and not look back.
B. What does Ecclesiastes 11:6 say?
Basically, you don’t know which way things will go when spreading the Word, so give it a chance; wait patiently.
C. How does you resolve the apparent contradiction?
Well, Jesus came to change the old ways up, right? However, just because someone doesn’t like me doesn’t mean I am to not pray and have hope for them (enemies). So, I could leave the place and still keep praying for them.
D. How do you know whether to shake the dust off your feet or keep sowing your seed?
I would pray that God clue me in and let me know the correct path.
8. Why did Paul stay in Ephesus? The passage says it was because a door was open for great impact. What good came of it? The church there was vibrant and growing, despite opposition and persecution.
9.a. Matthew says if you aren’t welcomed, shake the dust off your feet and move on.
b. Ecc says to sow everywhere, all the time. You don’t know where the harvest will be. Interesting to me that often in Scripture, people in general are described as bodies of water, like the beast coming out of the sea. We even use that when we say a sea of humanity. So, casting your bread on the waters is like saying tell all kinds of people about Jesus. This application to Ecc is new for me. I always thought it strange to cast your bread on the waters.
I don’t see these verses as an either or. I see that we are to spread seed. If it doesn’t appear to be taking, you don’t have to stay, and as you said, Dee, ‘sow on cement’. You can move on while continuing to try with different people. You don’t know that in the future what you thought was barren won’t sprout. But you can’t ignore the fertile places waiting for it.
d. Ultimately we should be making decisions based on what God wants for our lives, and not just what we want. It is so important to pray. Seek godly counsel. Pray more. Test the doors. Pray again. Do what you believe God is telling you to do.
7.Why did most of the believers flee after the stoning of Stephen? (Acts 8:1-2) What good came from that?
Great persecution broke out and believers scattered, allowing the Gospel to spread further.
8.Why, despite opposition, did Paul decide to stay in Ephesus according to 1 Corinth. 16:8-9? What good came from that?
He stayed because a door of opportunity for sharing the Gospel was opened to him and many more came to faith.
9. Challenge Question: The following two verses may seem like a contradiction. A. What does Matthew 10:14 say?
If people are not willing to hear the Gospel, leave, “shake the dust off your feet”.
B. What does Ecclesiastes 11:6 say?
Continue to be faithful to sowing the seed of the Gospel.
C. How do you resolve the apparent contradiction?
I think we are to be willing to sow seed everywhere we go, but also be aware of those who are hardened and opposed. We cannot sow seed on hardened, rocky soil.
D. How do you know whether to shake the dust off your feet or keep sowing your seed?
All I can think is to pray and seek Him for wisdom. Each situation is different. We are not always called to stay, and yet sometimes we are. He will lead if we seek Him and listen.
10. Have you been kissed by the King recently? If so, how?
I feel very blessed by my church staff I work with. I was having a weary day yesterday—feeling my depravity strong, and not balanced by my “treasured-ness”, that happens with me sometimes. I know without a doubt my salvation, for I know it has nothing to do with me. But at times I need heavy doses of knowing how specifically, personally loved I am by my true Father. Wise words from my pastor touched me deep and I am bathing myself in Scriptures of His love, personal, for me. I also picked back up Abba’s Child (Manning) and the truths are covering the wounds.
Lizzy — you are such a blessing here, and to me personally. I love this phrase: “my depravity strong, and not balanced by my ‘treasured-ness'”
So glad your local church has become family in the absence of your biological family
Lizzy, I love how you brought out in D. praying and seeking wisdom for each situation for we don’t know hearts like He does. Sometimes it isn’t as clear cut….and oh your answer to 10.. you didn’t leave it there-you bathed yourself in scriptures and then picked up Abba’s Child again. You are such a treasure my sweet sister.
10. Have you been kissed by the King recently? If so, how?
Well, it started with the discussion on Monday with a director in our main office on the state of affairs going on in our school district; the banning of chick-fil-a, different pronouns for different people, etc. I went home that night to finish reading the book “Adorned” (NDW) to prepare for the last bible study meeting with the small group I am leading. The final chapter of the book was about being kind and oh! what a great chapter! The next day, again, something appeared to me to make me consider kindness, and so it goes on and on each day this week I am given the charge by God to make sure I am being kind. Everywhere I turn around I am reminded. I love when that happens. A kiss from the king!
Great, Laura.
Wow — banning Chick-Fil-A – persecuted for righteousness sake
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12
A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted?
Jesus promises a great reward in heaven for those who are persecuted because of Him.
B. How is this beatitude different from the others?
The other ones describe the character of a child of God (poor in spirit, merciful, pure in heart) and this one describes what likely will happen to you if you are living out these beatitudes; it describes the reactions of men and women to how you are living for God. The other ones talk about the rewards God has for us; this one is a very different “reward” for living rightly.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20 – Jesus warns us that if He was persecuted, then we will be persecuted too.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18
v.10 – we are told that we must keep from evil and deceitful speech and turn from evil and do good. If we are around people who don’t do this and we strive to, we may invite persecution.
v.14 – even if we suffer or are persecuted for doing what is right, we need to remember that we are blessed. We don’t have to be scared (of what men are typically scared of). I think this is because we know that no matter what is done to us, God has our back and no one can take away what He gives us.
v.15 – we are told to set apart Christ as Lord in our hearts. This might apply to persecution because if we remember just who is God and are not bowing down to idols, like going along with lying or dirty talk out of an idol of wanting approval and affirmation from others, but rather refrain because He is our God, then we may be persecuted for not following the crowd. We are also told to be ready to give an answer; in this case, someone may ask us why we don’t want to go along with the bad behavior, and we need to tell them it is because of our faith. But we need to answer gently and respectfully.
v.16 – if our conscience is clear and our behavior above reproach, those who are speaking badly of us may be ashamed of themselves.
v.17 – if I am suffering persecution, how much better if the reason is that I did something good, instead of I am just suffering the consequences of doing wrong.
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above? If so, how?
The verse that says “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” I’m thinking of a diagram I saw once that showed Jesus in his rightful place in our hearts, kind of like inside a circle, and other things on the outside. But how we can move Him out of that circle and put other things in there, making Him second, or third… Keeping Him as Lord of my heart might well help me not to give in or go along with the flow or worry more about what others think of me.
I like your perspective on this, Susan.
These verses stand out to me, because I know that in my hurt over my relationship with my mom, I must have not been gentle and respectful in every respect. I’ve been feeling convicted to talk again with my mom in person- to show her Christ’s love. Not for selfish gain, but to lead her gently towards faith.
This is an encouragement to know, if a person accepts Christ, our witness will be accepted. Another’s faith is not dependent on the quality of our witness—but on Christ alone, and his impact through the Spirit.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.)
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how?
I’m not sure. I’m hosting a benefit at our farm for friends who’s baby was born prematurely in February. I have the opportunity to have a RTL representative be present with a table for a petition against dismemberment abortion in our state. Those attending do not favor abortion as far as I know, and I’m not concerned about offending anyone if we do have RTL attend—but is it the right setting for this? We do expect a large attendance, giving opportunity for many signatures. I’ve asked my husband and Co-host and both are not sure it’s the right place, so I’m inclined towards not having RTL come and settling my heart on accepting this. Any thoughts?
I really like your interpretation of John 15:20…it really is an encouragement!
Chris, this is hard; I understand your dilemma. What if you focused on the family (haha), but invited people (in some quiet fashion) as they left the event to sign the petition and visit the table? Have the person set up after all are present so as to not draw attention. I think that would be ok. Or, don’t have them attend this, but have a separate event for them to come to later.
Thank you, Laura. That was my thought as well. It would be a quiet option. Alas, I’ve been voted down. It is an awkward situation and it’s okay. The Lord can protect the unborn without my help, regardless. Praying for you:)
7. Why did most of the believers flee after the stoning of Stephen? (Acts 8:1-2) What good came from that?
A great persecution broke out so they fled. The Gospel was spread further.
8. Why, despite opposition, did Paul decide to stay in Ephesus according to 1 Corinth. 16:8-9? What good came from that?
Because a door had opened up for him and he wanted to stay to seize the opportunities.
9. Challenge Question: The following two verses may seem like a contradiction.
A. What does Matthew 10:14 say? If anyone doesn’t welcome you or listen to you, then leave.
B. What does Ecclesiastes 11:6 say? To stay-don’t be weary because the seed planted may sprout.
C. How do you resolve the apparent contradiction? The first verse is if it is clear that the seeds were planted and doors are closed, hearts are hard-and seed will fall on concrete, You can make more of an impact with your time somewhere else on more fertile ground. The other verse seems as if it isn’t clear yet if the seed sown has taken root. so there is still hope and therefore shouldn’t leave.
D. How do you know whether to shake the dust off your feet or keep sowing your seed?
When you have sown over a long time and nothing is growing or taking root-the soil is rejecting it on a continual basis.
10. Have you been kissed by the King recently? If so, how?
He kissed me via a text I received this morning (from late last night) from my oldest son. He is taking a class on religion at college and they are studying Christianity and are required to read the bible!!! So he is reading and occasionally asking me questions.
This morning he said, “I have been reading and think I am connecting some dots, do Christians pray before they eat because of Deuteronomy 8:10? That seems to be in line with how ya’ll like to pray before you eat.” Then said, “Matthew 22: 36-40 is probably the best verse for shutting down people like the Westboro Baptist church.” So my response was, ” Yes, you are putting the dots together! This reminded me of a question you had yesterday..if he is real, why won’t God show himself.” (and he has also asked in the past, if God is so powerful why didn’t he just snap his fingers after the Fall and fix everything?”) I continued, “He showed himself in Jesus. God is holy and he wants a relationship with us so he came and took on the wrath for our sin. He could have snapped his fingers instead but I think that would have been impersonal. Instead he gave his life. A holy God taking on our sin and his own wrath..That kind of love is mind blowing to me.” – Please keep praying the seeds would burst into faith someday in him!
Wow Rebecca, what a wonderful kiss from the King!! May I ask what college your son goes to that they are teaching Christianity in a religion class and having them read the Bible? That just amazes me in this day and age.
Hi Sharon! Yes, A local secular community college. When he was turning a few years ago i couldn’t get him to study his bible to be sure what he is hearing is true. Praying for a believer to befriend him and that God would open his eyes as he reads. ❤
Praying truth and grace for your son and that the seeds planted will flourish. I took a Old and New Testament class at Michigan State University long ago. Not sure if it’s still offered, but it was a good class. I was still a fairly new Christian and it gave me a good background. Praying your son’s professor is a Christian or that God can work through him despite his beliefs. At any rate, your son is connecting dots! How exciting.
Rebecca — when my sons went away from the Lord they said they couldn’t get away! 🙂 I see that with yours too.
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17
A. John 15:20
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.)
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how? I have been listening to a series of teachings by Chip Ingram lately on why he thinks it is time for a new “apologetic”or new way of witnessing and sharing the gospel within our current culture. He uses 1 Peter as a springboard! He makes the point that today’s culture is more like the 1st century culture than the culture of the 19th and 20th centuries. What he means by that is that today’s culture is mostly hostile to the gospel and holds relative truth in high regard. So then, we need to learn how the disciples were successful in changing their hostile world…mostly by loving those around them well. Verses 8- 18 say I am to seek harmony, be sympathetic, act in a brotherly manner, be kindhearted, and possess a deep humility…not returning evil for evil or insult for insult but giving a blessing instead…this is my purpose in life…I will bear the family resemblance if I act in this manner.
If I desire life…to love and see good days…I must keep my tongue from evil and speaking lies…I cannot turn my back on the truth. I must not only turn away from evil (repent) but I must also do good (live out my faith) I must seek peach and pursue it…that is I must seek the kingdom life! Then my prayers will be heard and I will be in God’s line of Vision…while those who do evil…God will be in opposition.
No one can truly harm you when you are zealous for doing what is good. Not that you will not suffer but you will be deeply blessed or happy. We are called to become all that God created us to be and called to do those works that He prepares before our birth for us to do.
We are not fear or let others intimidate us out of this blessing. Be ready to give an answer to any who ask you about the source of your hope…with gentleness and reverence. If we keep a clear conscience about these things it will be a source of shame to those who revile us.
It is better to suffer for doing what is right…as Jesus did…as a witness…in order that some may be saved. Suffering for doing what is wrong is simply justice and the witness of grace is lost. Persecution may bring death to our body but it will bring abundant life to our spirit and great rewards in the kingdom.
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:11-12.
A. What promise does Jesus give the persecuted? – that we will be blessed and are in good company.
B. How is this Beatitude different from the others? – Is it different because this one is personal to us, where the others are speaking more about other people?
6. Meditate on 1 Peter 3:8-17 – We need to stay gentle and loving and show kindness to everyone so that the Lord can bless us. He will protect as we are persecuted.
A. John 15:20 – We are not above persecution. Jesus was persecuted and we will be as well because we follow him.
B. 1 Peter 3:10-18 (Take time, finding everything you can.) – We need to turn away from evil if we want to see good days. We need to not be deceitful but to do good and speak peace and pursue peace. The Lord is with us if we do these things and will hear our prayers. He is against all those who do evil. If we follow Him we will be protected even if we suffer for Him. We should not fear what comes against us but honor God and be ready to explain why we do what we do as Christians. By doing these things, Jesus will bring us to God through his death.
7. Is God speaking to you through any of the above. If so, how? – I see that I need to ALWAYS find peace in my situations, to not speak badly and to keep my eyes set on the Lord and the things that are good. If I do this, He will be with me to the end of time.
11. Tim Keller’s sermon, War and Peace
The Beatitudes are not about eight different kind of people, but about one kind of person sharing the same eight characteristics. That one kind of person is the one who has entered the kingdom of God. Biblically, eternal life is the life to come, starting now. We have that eternal power now to live. We have a new purpose in life when we come into the kingdom. While Christianity does bring inner peace and other benefits, Jesus never invited people to come to Him for those reasons. He said to come to spread His peace, to be a peacemaker. Don’t come to a Him for cultural problems. Instead come to Him because He is truly the King. And the way you know you’re spreading peace is when you are persecuted.
1. What is this peace? It is peace as opposed to hostility or warfare. Man is naturally at war with God. Many say they are not hostile to God, but they are really hiding it from themselves. Look at the intellect. We look at God in the Bible and get upset with the way He reveals Himself and what He says about man. Look at our will. We make promises to God that we don’t keep, and do it repeatedly with no chagrin. We treat Him poorly. Emotionally we warm to people who do nice things for us, but we are cold towards God. When we have a bad week, we say that what He’s done for us is nothing. We blame Him for anything we don’t like in our life. Hostility sleeps deep in us until God doesn’t ‘come through’ for us. We don’t search for Him. We run from Him.
The Holy Spirit shows us that hostility so that He can give us peace with God through what Christ has done. Can’t have peace with a God without admitting you’re at war with Him.
The signs of peace in your heart. Worship comes alive as celebration. Amazement at His love for us. No longer afraid to fail with God.
2. What is it to be a peacemaker? It is not someone who doesn’t want to make waves. Jesus made peace by confronting people, announcing the good news, evangelism. We can be explicit, telling our story. We can also gently probe into the life of another. Not exploring who this person is and how I view that, but asking what is God doing in this person and how can I help it along?
3. Why does peacemaking lead to persecuting? 2 Tim 3:12 is another verse that says that if you’re living right in a God you will be persecuted. It is scary. It is possible to be persecuted for your own faults, but that is not what this is talking about. Jesus is our model. We should be both as attractive and loving as He is, and as holy and repellent. If people are not reacting to you in one of these two ways, then Jesus is not shining out through you. If you’re never persecuted, you’re a coward.
the passage ends on an up note. We can rejoice in persecution because what we’ve been given in Christ is so much more than anything we give up. You never lose anything in this world. All you’ve done is to get rid of false peace while gaining Christ’s peace. You’ve spent a quarter to access a million dollars.
Great notes, Mary.
SO..God just gave me a HUGE kiss. 🙂 I stopped at the grocery store on the way home and guess who I ran into. My oldest son. I will spare the details but we had a long conversation outside my car. He told me how he did on his philosophy of religion test today at school. After telling me where he stands, he said that religion still isn’t for him. Then he said but mom I want you to know that I like your brand of Christianity. Kind of confused, I asked him what my brand was. He said, “Mom, you became a Christian because you wanted a relationship with God. It wasn’t because you didn’t want to go to hell. I haven’t heard that desire for relationship from any of the Christians I have been around.” 🙂 I know he isn’t ready, but every little baby step means so much.
Awe. This is so sweet. He wants a relationship with you and is really thinking this all through. Sounds like he sees your love for the Lord. What a testimony. Not sure my mom and siblings have seen this in me. Need to work on this. Hoping the Lord provides for some good conversation before the wedding.
Thank you for your encouraging story.
Simmchris, You are a light sister, just keep loving Jesus and trusting Him and loving your family well. Your work will be just pressing more into Jesus and the Word. Asking Him to help you love before and during the wedding, he will. I have found asking questions and being sincerely interested in them and their life is huge, but God helps us to do that too. I am sure they see Him in you! I do, and we all do on the blog!
I hope this doesn’t come across like it is all about me. Yikes. This isn’t about me for He put the desire in me to want Him..I had nothing to do with my son seeing what he sees now because this certainly wasn’t what he said years ago-he said we brainwashed him growing up. It’s just that my son sees Jesus in me-and even that is an act of God. 😉
The part about me is that even though I don’t deserve to be encouraged via seeing a spark of hope still in my son, God did anyway! It was like He said, “See, my beautiful one I am working on his heart, don’t awaken love before it’s time. All your seed planting and sowing wasn’t done in vain. Trust me.”
🙂 Oh Rebecca!
12. Which two Beatitudes are most impacting me? For sure the two from this week. Keller’s sermon put things in a whole new perspective. I’ve slipped into the ‘don’t make waves’ attitude, and it is wrong. I’ve let the devil put a sack over my head about the real cost and the real benefit. I’m having to reevaluate my life. Not my salvation, but how I am living it out. I’m especially convicted that I need to approach each encounter with a person for where God is working in them and seek to further it.
God hunt. Our safety from the three tornadoes on Tuesday night here in Sioux Falls. There was only one major injury in town.
More than that is how my new perspective is changing the way I pray. Not just wanting God to make nice, but for His kingdom power to be seen.
Third thing this week is that I found out what is bothering my dtr in love. It isn’t resolved yet, but I know that it will be and that helps me so much.
Love the change in your prayer life:
Not just wanting God to make nice, but for His kingdom power to be seen.
12. Name two particular Beatitudes that are impacting you and why.
Dee, thank you so much for this study! I have such a deeper appreciation for all the Beatitudes after this study, it’s hard to choose two. I hate to admit but they had become almost rote to me and I am so thankful for how this study has opened my eyes to their depth and to seeing them as a model for pursuing a Christ like life.
I feel most drawn to “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” To have an undivided heart. “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.” (psalm 27:4) Purity seems unobtainable and yet we are called to pursue it now. I really liked what Colin Smith says “purity of heart is not perfection (or sinlessness)…it does not lie in what we attain but in what we pursue and how we pursue it.” I am forgiven, I am washed clean, and one day I will be pure as He is pure, but even now I trust Him to change me more and more into His likeness.
The 4th Beatitude, a hunger and thirst for righteousness, also impacts me. I am thankful for His gift of this hunger in me, when I crave His word and want to just be soaked in truth, but I want more of it. I am also thankful though that when my desire wanes, when I feel dry—I can go back to the beginning, poor in Spirit and humbly admit my depravity, mourn my sinfulness, and submit again to my King. And as I do this, he renews my apetitite for Him, for righteousness.
Ok, I have to add–blessed are the merciful also greatly impacted me regarding forgiving others. And blessed are the meek—I don’t think I really understood this one before our study. I especially liked Smith’s point about “moderate your expectations of others”.
12. Name two particular Beatitudes that are impacting you and why.
I am probably most impacted by the one about humility…being more humble. I think it’s important to be able to be able to humble yourself so you may then be open to listening and doing some of the others (Beatitudes) Jesus suggests.
The other one is about persecution, because I see it so much more often in our country now…I truly believe that we haven’t seen much to this point and it is coming our way even more. I can see/hear inklings of it. We are no longer a country who believes together with respect to our being. We are drifting to our own paths. It makes me sad.