We are spending Advent on one of Isaiah’s prophesies:
Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and his name shall be called:
It isn’t hard to see Jesus as Wonderful, as Counselor, or as Prince of Peace, but Mighty God and Everlasting Father? Confusing! Yet when we plumb the depth, this puts us in awe of Jesus, of how He limited Himself on earth, and of what we are yet to see. It helps us understand why Revelation shows all falling before Him.
At the end of Jesus’ ministry, Philip asked Him: “Show us the Father.”
What did Jesus say?
As Matt Menzel, said, “Jesus is the full manifestation of who God is to us. So if God relates to us as Father, then Jesus will show us what that means.”
If you want to watch, here is the optional sermon by Matt Menzel called “Everlasting Father” Click below and scroll to the bottom to find it:
https://theorchardefca.org
The main point of calling Jesus “Everlasting Father” is not that He is God the Father, for He is separate, but He shows us the character of God the Father. Matt Menzel looks at how Jesus’ parable of the prodigal sons shows us the character of the Father. And we really do see the same qualities in Jesus. This will be a fresh way of looking at this parable, for we indeed see the great love of the Father in this parable in Jesus. We cannot earn His love, we already have it.
Below are my dear lifetime friends Sylvia and Ann. (As an aside, but fervent request, please pray for Ann, on the right, battling cancer for her life. She has asked God for five more good years, and I am agreeing with that prayer.)
The story I want to tell you is Sylvia’s.
Tim Keller’s book Prodigal God was a life changer for Sylvia, for she realized how much she was like the older son in thinking somehow that she could earn God’s favor by being a good Christian. The flip side of that was that she felt she lost His favor if she missed a quiet time or sinned in any way. In sharing this with a godly mentor, the woman gave her an assignment. “Don’t have a quiet time this week.”
Sylvia was astonished, but did it, though not sure why! At their next meeting, Sylvia told her mentor, “I’m missing my quiet time. May I have it this week?”
Her mentor smiled. She said, “Absolutely! That’s what the Father wants. He wants you to have a quiet time, not to earn His favor, for you already have that, but simply because you long to be with him. We see this same character in Jesus. He did everything, even death on a cross, for us to have intimacy with Him, so how offensive it is to think we must also add to what He did in order to be accepted.
Sylvia tells her story in the opening of my last video for Idol Lies — it’s just a few minutes, I’d like you to watch that segment — you don’t need to watch the whole video. Click here and go to the very last video in Idol Lies:
https://deebrestin.com/idol-lies/
God Hunt Sunday:
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how?
3. Challenge Question: Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the father is like? (I can only think of one.)
Monday: If You’ve Seen Me, You’ve Seen The Father
Read this one page article and comment:
How Can Jesus Be Our Everlasting Father?
4. What did you learn from the above article?
5. Read John 14:8-11
A. What does Philip ask and how does Jesus respond?
B. Challenge Question: List three qualities that you associate with God the Father and then give a specific example of how those qualities were manifested in Jesus.
6. What do you learn about Jesus from Colossians 1:15-20? Does anything become radioactive? If so what — and why?
7. In his sermon, Matt Menzel made himself vulnerable in saying he didn’t want to preach this sermon because he has a hard relationship with his earthly father, and though he and his wife have tried to have children, either biologically or by adoption, those plans have failed. What would you tell someone like that about relating to God as Father?
Tuesday: Two Lost Sons
Watch this to prepare your heart:
8. How were you a rebel before coming to Christ? How did Jesus relate to you?
9. How have you been a rebel since coming to Christ? How has Jesus related to you?
10. Read Luke 15:1-2. What two groups were listening to Jesus and whom do they each represent?
11. What stands out to you from the trailer for Prodigal God? Have you read it? If so, how did it impact you?
Wednesday: The Father and The Rebel
12. Read Luke 15:11-24, asking the Lord to show you His heart for you, when you have been a rebel.
A. What becomes radioactive and why?
B. The younger son is basically wishing his father dead – -what would have been the response in this shame and honor culture? How do we do the same when we rebel against the Lord?
C. How has the Father embraced you as this father embraced his rebellious son? Be specific if possible.
13. Read Luke 7:36-50
A. Describe Jesus’ response to the immoral woman. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we rebel?
B. Describe Jesus’ response to the pharisee. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we default to works’ righteousness?
Thursday: The Father and the Self-Righteous
14. Read Luke 7:25-31, asking God to show you His heart for you when you trust in yourself. What do you see?
15. One of the symptoms of being an elder son can be seen when suffering comes into your life. You either are mad at God, because you think you’ve led a good life and yet you are suffering, or you are mad at yourself because you think if you’d led a better life this wouldn’t have happened. Have you responded with way? Be specific. Then — tell the truth to your soul about the gospel.
16. I’ve been reading Keller’s book: “Forgive.” and I see how easily I can be the elder brother in withholding forgiveness, not realizing how sinful I am too. Do you do this? If so, how should we both talk to our souls?
Friday: Everlasting
Last week I went to a small Christmas tea of five secular “pickleball” women. I was glad to be invited and have hopes God has a purpose in that. But the talk was so “under the sun,” and it did make me thankful that my blinders have been removed to see my real life, hidden with Christ in God. I think of Francis Chan’s rope illustration, and how this life is such a short part of our whole lives. I had trouble finding a way into the conversation, but I do see hope when I get one on one with especially two of these women. (Pray especially for favor with M. J. and Katy!)
In Matt Menzel’s sermon, he mentioned how Jesus will be King forever and ever, and a good King should be like a good Father, benevolent, and seeking our best. John is shown in Revelation that Christ “sits on the throne and lives for ever and ever.”
17. Meditate on Revelation 1:5-7 and describe how we will one day see Jesus.
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say?
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific.
20. If you listened to the sermon share your thoughts. (It was optional – -but if you did, share!)
Saturday:
21. What is your take-a-way and why?
66 comments
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
God has been with me, with peace, even in the midst of chaos. When I have been uncomfortable He has comforted me.
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how?
Of course! Good “works” help us to feel that we are part of the process of our salvation. We think we have to do something to participate. In fact we have to do nothing. Jesus did it for us. He paid the price. It is a newish concept for me though. Even though I’m not Catholic, my mom was, and I knew of the idea of good works, or penance, which would put me in good favor with Him. I grew up in church (Methodist) and have always been a Christian, but never really knew Jesus. It took the pain of my two middle kids to send me racing to Him to escape the hell on Earth (raising them) to understand. This blog, and the “Revive Our Hearts” podcasts with Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth turned me around to understanding that there was nothing I could do. It was a relief!! My job is to believe in Him and to love.
3. Challenge Question: Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the father is like? (I can only think of one.)
The most logical answer would be the father of the prodigal son. He allowed his son to leave and then celebrated when the son returned. Natural consequences for that one. He shows us how we should respond in these types of circumstances. But, what about Abraham and Isaac? Abraham did what God told him to do with Issac. He trusted God fully. We should trust God even when it feels awkward.
Love the story of God showing you what grace means, Laura!
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week? We have had days of gray skies and some times my mood goes along with the grayness and this week has brought bad and alarming news for people I know I see God at work in not allowing me to stay in the grayness but instead to come into His light and see His goodness to be thankful and to worship and give me the privilege of praying
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how? Yes Because I keep a mental score pad as to whether or not words or actions honor Him and bring Him glory So when I fail as I often do it’s hard to understand in my heart that His love hasn’t changed for me
3. Challenge Question: Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the father is like? (I can only think of one.) I find Jospeh an admirable father though I know little of him He listened to God and took a young pregnant woman as his wife in a culture that would have have disdained them He took the hard way not the easy way.
I think we all can identify with this from Judy: When I fail as I often do it’s hard to understand in my heart that His love hasn’t changed for me
God Hunt Sunday:
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
After the pandemic, it has been slow going with our children’s ministry. My husband and I would pray especially regarding what we have called Parents Night Out. So, after 2 years, we thought it was time to revive it and offer it to young parents as an opportunity to get away for 2 hours while we take care of their children. Another older mom in our congregation offered to help me with the activities and Bible Lessons. My husband and I fixed simple supper items and used the myriad of YouTube free videos to finish the 2 hours.
Two high school girls have been our mainstay as nursery workers and helpers. I am praying that while they are helping us, their hearts and minds would hear the gospel preached and would encounter the living Christ.
Another lady in our community has also offered her services to help us with the nursery as well as our upcoming Women’s Bible Study.
I see how God has provided us with people to help us with what we believe is the work He has for us at this time.
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how?
Yes, but this blog has helped me speak to my soul about how much I am already loved and accepted, and no works are needed to add to God’s love for me in Christ Jesus. Nor can any failure sever it as well.
3. Challenge Question: Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the father is like? (I can only think of one.)
I thought of Joseph, Jesus’ earthly father. Not much is said of him in the Scriptures directly. But when in Matthew it was said of Jesus that “he grew up in favor with God and man”, I would say, that Joseph had much to do with Jesus’ upbringing.
I often wondered how Joseph has taken all that the angel told him before he took Mary as his wife. I can only imagine the conversations they had before he passed away and how he lived his life purposely knowing that this son of his is his Savior as well. I would like to meet him in Heaven someday!
Both you and Judy mentioned Joseph — a good one.
I thought of Boaz, as a father figure to Ruth, and then a father to Obed, having Naomi move in and be such a big part of his life.
I almost wrote Boaz too!!
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week? In my Advent study I have been reminded of all that Jesus has done for me. I get so caught up in the flurry of sending gifts , cards and boxes of Christmas goodies for family far away. If I don’t set aside a time for reflection, I get lost in the Christmas shuffle. The Lord gently reminds me to be still and know that He is God…Peace fills the atmosphere.
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how? Yes, because of the legalistic church I grew up in. I ran far away from God and religion as a teen, because I could not live a sinless life in my flesh. I did not understand the Gospel of Grace. Even later on when I had truely surrendered control of my life, I would slip back in to the gospel of works. I must have an idol of control too.
3. Challenge Question: Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the father is like? (I can only think of one.) Only the father of the prodigal. This example has been very significant to me, I was able to forgive and help my son through addiction recovery and healing of all that happened to him in his addiction…because of this example of forgiveness and unconditional love. To God be the glory!
So good from Lydia:
If I don’t set aside a time for reflection, I get lost in the Christmas shuffle. The Lord gently reminds me to be still and know that He is God…Peace fills the atmosphere.
4. What did you learn from the above article?
Jesus and the Father are distinct from each other but the Son is the exact representation of the Father and He is the perfect Father. There is no unfathering Christ and there is no unchilding us (isn’t that security!). He is the everlasting Father.
5. Read John 14:8-11
A. What does Philip ask and how does Jesus respond? Lord show us the Father and that will be enough for us. Don’t you know me after I’ve been among you such a long time. I don’t speak on my own accord, rather it is the Father living in me who is doing the work.
B. Challenge Question: List three qualities that you associate with God the Father and then give a specific example of how those qualities were manifested in Jesus. Loving – Jesus laid down His life for us. Omnipresent – Jesus said surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. Mighty – Jesus raised the dead, walked on water, healed the sick blind lame and deaf.
6. What do you learn about Jesus from Colossians 1:15-20? Does anything become radioactive? If so what — and why? God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him. The word God was pleased. What a loving Father no selfishness no holding back no manipulation to try to control. God was pleased to have ALL his fullness dwell in Christ.
7. In his sermon, Matt Menzel made himself vulnerable in saying he didn’t want to preach this sermon because he has a hard relationship with his earthly father, and though he and his wife have tried to have children, either biologically or by adoption, those plans have failed. What would you tell someone like that about relating to God as Father? So much I don’t understand, my words are in adequate, but God is not. I know that God loves you and sees your hurt.
Monday: If You’ve Seen Me, You’ve Seen The Father
Read this one-page article and comment:
4. What did you learn from the above article?
Jesus shows fatherly characteristics that reflect God the Father. He cares for us just as a good father would and is perfect at it!
5. Read John 14:8-11
A. What does Philip ask and how does Jesus respond?
I thought it was just Thomas who want to see to believe! Philip asked Jesus to show them the Father. Jesus answered by saying that He has been with them a while and seeing Jesus means they are seeing the Father, too.
B. Challenge Question: List three qualities that you associate with God the Father and then give a specific example of how those qualities were manifested in Jesus.
God is the Father of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3) Jesus comforted Mary when He was hanging on the cross by asking John to take care of Mary
God is the Father of mercies (Psalm 118:1) that He sent His Son to die for me and Jesus showed mercy to me by dying for my sins while I was yet a sinner.
God is holy and righteous: Jesus used a whip to scatter the money changers in the temple.
6. What do you learn about Jesus from Colossians 1:15-20? Does anything become radioactive? If so what — and why?
7. In his sermon, Matt Menzel made himself vulnerable in saying he didn’t want to preach this sermon because he has a hard relationship with his earthly father, and though he and his wife have tried to have children, either biologically or by adoption, those plans have failed. What would you tell someone like that about relating to God as Father?
Am not sure as that is a very hard place to be in. I have listened to Matt in the past through your blog, Dee. He comes across to me who have had some deep pain, wrestled with God about it, and coming out closer to God than ever. He speaks from experience and his vulnerability is evident. Perhaps that is why he touches my heart so when I listen to him.
I agree with you Bing on Matt — and that’s exactly right. He has suffered with some kind of disease that has continual pain.
4. What did you learn from the above article?
Jesus is not God.
Christ is fatherly.
To know God is to know Jesus.
Jesus will be a perfect father in the way He shepherds and leads me. My perfect Father forever.
God gave me this gift at Christmas.
Nothing in creation can separate me from His love. Not even death. In fact death brings me closer to Him. Wow.
5. Read John 14:8-11
A. What does Philip ask and how does Jesus respond?
He wants to see the Father. Jesus says that he has already seen Him through Jesus.
B. Challenge Question: List three qualities that you associate with God the Father and then give a specific example of how those qualities were manifested in Jesus.
Leader – Jesus led others to understand His Way.
Comforter – Jesus had answers to scary life problems.
Provider – Jesus provided for others with miracles that showed He was in control.
6. What do you learn about Jesus from Colossians 1:15-20? Does anything become radioactive? If so what — and why?
Christ is the visible image in the invisible God. I love this! I just never thought of it before.
He has been here since the beginning of time.
He holds creation together.
He is the first in everything.
God made peace with everything on earth because of the cross.
7. In his sermon, Matt Menzel made himself vulnerable in saying he didn’t want to preach this sermon because he has a hard relationship with his earthly father, and though he and his wife have tried to have children, either biologically or by adoption, those plans have failed. What would you tell someone like that about relating to God as Father?
I would say that God has a plan. He is your ultimate Father. He told me that as I stood at my dad’s death bed when I was a child. He must believe that God know and is in control.
How that scene at your father’s death bed has impacted you for good.
8. How were you a rebel before coming to Christ? I didn’t think that I was “that bad”. I didn’t read the bible or go to church. The prayers that I did pray were only for my benefit. How did Jesus relate to you? With love. He never let me forget that he was there. He brought people into my life that pointed me toward him.
9. How have you been a rebel since coming to Christ? In my early walk with him I was very self righteous. I judged the seriousness of other’s conversion if they did things that I wouldn’t do or didn’t do things that I did. Now it is more that I don’t turn away from things that are distracting me from my time with him. I seek comfort from things other than him. How has Jesus related to you? With love and patience. He has shown me things recently through what would be considered coincidences, but I know that they are his comfort to me during this time of feeling disconnected. Tax collectors and sinners (they represent the unsaved/unenlightened). Pharisees and scribes (they represent the religious/educated)
11. What stands out to you from the trailer for Prodigal God? Everything that we think we know about this parable is wrong. Have you read it? If so, how did it impact you? I don’t think that I’ve read the actual book, but I have done studies on it and have listened to Keller’s sermons on it. It has definitely affected my view on who I am. At one time I was the younger brother. Before, I didn’t realize how ingrained the insidious sense of entitlement can be in believers. It caused me to really examine myself and my attitude toward others.
Isn’t that the truth! Everything we think we know about this parable is wrong. Even the headers in most Bible say Prodigal Son
I couldn’t pull up the link and not tech savvy to figure out what to do I listened to Tim Keller on prodigal sons
8. How were you a rebel before coming to Christ? How did Jesus relate to you? I just did as I pleased not really understanding what Christianity meant I knew the basics but had no comprehension of what a loving Father and Savior we have. He never gave up on me He kept pursuing He is my rescue story
9. How have you been a rebel since coming to Christ? How has Jesus related to you? I guess early on I was like an older brother No grace given and no real love He has lovingly been transforming me and my attitudes
10. Read Luke 15:1-2. What two groups were listening to Jesus and whom do they each represent? Those who rebelled against the father and those who followed the rules for their own self righteousness Neither wanted the father but only what he could offer them
11. What stands out to you from the trailer for Prodigal God? Have you read it? If so, how did it impact you?
Sorry about that, Judy — sometimes a different browser works.
2. Read Luke 15:11-24, asking the Lord to show you His heart for you, when you have been a rebel.
A. What becomes radioactive and why? Verse 20 “So he set out and came to his father. But when he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” The moment the father saw that his son was coming back to him, he dropped everything and ran to him. He didn’t wait for the son to get there and see what he had to say.
B. The younger son is basically wishing his father dead – -what would have been the response in this shame and honor culture? How do we do the same when we rebel against the Lord? The family would have been talked about, ridiculed, people would be making all kinds of assumptions about how the father was a failure to raise a son like this. When we rebel against the Lord, all that the world sees is how “hypocritical” Christians are.
Dee, the link to Keller’s book did not work for me. I was able to go on YouTube and find it though.
8. How were you a rebel before coming to Christ? How did Jesus relate to you?
I thought I knew what I needed! I did what I wanted to do. I went to church but that was for show; a ritual. I didn’t read my Bible. He has always loved me, sinner that I am.
9. How have you been a rebel since coming to Christ? How has Jesus related to you?
I know what I should be focused on now. I know that it’s not about rituals anymore for me. Sometimes it’s hard to be a Christian, to live up to being the best I can be; Christlike. Sometimes I want to let my guard down. But, when I think of Him, and how He fought to have me, I come back to reality. He is still there, wanting me. I literally think of Him before opening my mouth! I have answers that reflect Him.
10. Read Luke 15:1-2. What two groups were listening to Jesus and whom do they each represent?
The tax collectors (rich) and sinners (poor) were listening.
11. What stands out to you from the trailer for Prodigal God? Have you read it? If so, how did it impact you?
“Finding my place at the table.” I have not read it.
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
It’s been a week….I’ve not been feeling well since this past Saturday, and went and had a CoVid test on Sunday. Got the results Tuesday morning and I tested positive. I think being sick has contributed to my feeling “down” this week too. I’ve been dwelling on a big way that I believe I failed my daughter as a parent.
It’s hard to stare my sin and failure in the face, so to speak, and not feel like running and hiding from God and to be filled with self-recrimination. I listened to the above sermon by Matt Menzel. Wow. God worked through his sermon. It made me cry. In the face of my sin, the Everlasting Father lays down His life and accepts humiliation. He knows my sin and rebellion is misplaced desire. When the bottom of my life falls out, He wants me to remember than He never forsook me or stopped loving me. What if my brokenness is not meant to crush me but to call me home? What does God feel toward me when He sees my sin, the mess I’ve made as I’ve tried to rule my own life? Compassion. What am I met with when I return home? Forgiveness. Why did Jesus live, die, and rise? Because my Father wanted me to have a way home. The Everlasting Father loves His children. If I know and believe this, I will stop running and exhausting myself. We can come to Jesus as King of Kings, but never let Him manifest the Everlasting Father to us. I do this when I think I have to earn His affections. I’ve also been reading a new book during Advent called Flying, Falling, Catching: An Unlikely Story of Finding Freedom by Henri Nouwen and Carolyn Whitney-Brown. It’s a book written after Henri’s death, using his notes and diary entries about his friendship with The Flying Rodleighs (a group of five trapeze artists in a German circus whom Henri became friends with). In one chapter, it talks about Henri’s emotional collapse shortly after he joined the L’Arche Daybreak community to live and work with handicapped people. It was during this time of intense inner anguish that Henri began to hear the voice (of God) calling him God’s beloved child. He wrote, “I was going through the deep human struggle to believe in my belovedness even when I had nothing to be proud of…..During the months that I spent away from Daybreak I was able to hear a soft and gentle inner voice saying, “You are my beloved child, on you my favor rests.” For a long time I distrusted the voice. I kept saying to myself, “It is a lie. I know the truth. There is nothing in me worth loving.” Henri also struggled to believe the voice calling him the beloved. Matt’s sermon spoke truth to me to combat the enemy’s lies, a big lie being when you have sinned and messed up, you can’t come home. The Father doesn’t want to see you; He doesn’t love you….how could He?
I want to tell you all something else. I was listening to the sermon on my laptop while sitting on the couch. My husband was over in his chair, and I know he was listening. At the beginning of the sermon when Matt explained that when the son asked for his inheritance, it was like saying to his father, “I wish you were dead!”, my husband said “Why is that? What does that mean?” So I paused the sermon and explained about the culture at that time and place and why it meant that. A few times while I was listening, our internet connection weakened and it interrupted the sermon, and he said, “What happened? Why did it stop?” So I know he was listening. It surprises me that he didn’t go upstairs. Matt said at the end of the sermon that a sermon doesn’t change a heart, but God can. So I will pray that what he heard God will use.
Oh Susan — I think God is hearing our prayers for your husband. Keep praying everyone.
I’m sure Covid is part of your depression. I’m so glad Matt’s sermon ministered to you.
Oh, Susan! Your entire post has me in tears. I pray that you recover from the Covid quickly! Praise God that He touched your husband’s heart with the words from Matt’s sermon. He is hearing our prayers. I am praying daily for your husband’s eyes to be opened.
I loved Matt’s sermon too. I just started reading Henri Nouwen’s book “The Return of the Prodigal Son”, which starts out with him coming to Daybreak to work with the mentally handicapped patients. Love your great thoughts! Thank you for posting.
Patti, you will love Henri’s book on the Prodigal Son. I have read it and return to it again and again. His insights are simply astounding. Thank you for your prayers, too.
Nouwen’s Prodigal Son was one of the most instrumental books God used in my life (other than the Bible). I will always remember reading it in college and the lightbulb moment!
Prayers Susan. And thanksgiving for your husbands softening heart.
oh Susan–I am just coming here now and saw that you have been sick. I am SO sorry! I had already been praying for you especially this week, that you would feel His smile upon you and Him holding you close. You are an incredible mom and all 3 of your children are so blessed by your example. Please silence the enemy’s whispers and lies. It’s encouraging that your husband was listening! Praying for seeds planted and growth.
Lizzy, I think you would love this newest book about Henri Nouwen and The Flying Rodleighs…it’s truly an amazing story of his friendship with this group of five trapeze artists and the spiritual truths he discovered. Even more, it shows a completely different side of Nouwen and so much of his personal journal and diary entries that you feel like you’ve really gotten to know Henri. He was a beautiful person. There’s a one-hour webinar on YouTube called Under the Big Top with Henri Nouwen that features the author of the book, one of Henri’s friends Bart Gavigan, and Rodleigh Stevens, who formed the trapeze group who became Henri’s friends. It shows footage of Henri and it’s just wonderful. And thank you for your prayers!
I will read and watch, Susan!
2. Could you identify in any way with Sylvia’s story? If so, how?
Sylvia said she changed when she understood the gospel, and though outwardly her life still looked the same, as in all the things she was doing, inwardly she was doing those things for a different reason – as a response to God’s love. Formerly, she thought she had to be good to earn God’s love. Now I would say that I don’t believe that I have to earn God’s love and favor and that I have a good biblical understanding of salvation, that it is by faith. Yet often, my emotions betray me, because when I sin or even make mistakes, I will feel unsure of God’s love and approval of me at that moment. It is so hard to “get” unconditional love because that is generally not the way people respond to us when we mess up.
3. Can you think of an admirable father figure in Scripture who shows us what the Father is like?
What about Job? Job regularly interceded to God on behalf of his children, just in case they had sinned when they were feasting together. Job would offer sacrifices for each child in case they had sinned. He cared about the souls of his children and their relationship with God. It may be a stretch, but our Everlasting Father (Jesus) lives to intercede for us, and God himself provided the ultimate sacrifice to atone for our sins.
Job’s a great example!
12. Read Luke 15:11-24, asking the Lord to show you His heart for you, when you have been a rebel.
A. What becomes radioactive and why?
Probably the part where the father tells the servants to get the robe, ring, and sandals for the son, is what resonates with me. The father is completely loving even though the son has screwed up (big time). It’s as if he was never disrespected by the son; he has “forgotten.” The son does not deserve this treatment!
B. The younger son is basically wishing his father dead – -what would have been the response in this shame and honor culture? How do we do the same when we rebel against the Lord?
I’m not exactly sure what the punishment would have been, but it certainly wouldn’t have been to celebrate! The father would have most likely had the son work hard (?) because of his disrespect.
When we are disrespectful towards the Lord, we deserve a consequence, but we receive the love of the father instead.
C. How has the Father embraced you as this father embraced his rebellious son? Be specific if possible.
I feel like I am given another chance to do better the next time. During rebellious times, it was always strife and pain. When I finally humbled myself, I had peace in my heart. So sweet.
C. How has the Father embraced you as this father embraced his rebellious son? Be specific if possible. He doesn’t bring the past up, hold grudges or wait to see changes in my behavior before He forgives, shows mercy and rejoices over me.
13. Read Luke 7:16-30
A. Describe Jesus’ response to the immoral woman. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we rebel?
B. Describe Jesus’ response to the pharisee. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we default to works’ righteousness?
Did you mean Luke 7:36-50?
I did Laura — should be using my large print Bible — will fix!
12. Read Luke 15:11-24, asking the Lord to show you His heart for you, when you have been a rebel.
A. What becomes radioactive and why? let s have a feast and celebrate No scolding no making me pay a price of groveling and begging Instead let’s celebrate you are home
B. The younger son is basically wishing his father dead – -what would have been the response in this shame and honor culture? How do we do the same when we rebel against the Lord? The son should have been ostracized by the father We fail to see the value of our Father the goodness and the only wanting what is best for us
C. How has the Father embraced you as this father embraced his rebellious son? Be specific if possible. Yesterday I was kind of questioning to a friend that was trying to tell me something and it made her angry I called her later and apologized and all is good between us This morning I still felt bad that I’d angered my friend though she d forgiven me and I confessed my lack of humility. I felt the Spirit nudge me that I had been given forgiveness when I asked Him yesterday and I needed to forgive myself My mood lifted after that
That’s good, Judy. In Forgive, his new book, Keller says we beat ourselves up to try to finish what Jesus did at the cross!
14. Read Luke 7:25-31, asking God to show you His heart for you when you trust in yourself. What do you see? My son, words of love to his son You are always with me Everything I have is yours
15. One of the symptoms of being an elder son can be seen when suffering comes into your life. You either are mad at God, because you think you’ve led a good life and yet you are suffering, or you are mad at yourself because you think if you’d led a better life this wouldn’t have happened. Have you responded with way? Be specific. Then — tell the truth to your soul about the gospel. Mad at myself that I got what I deserved God says, my child, come to me, realize I am here I will never leave or forsake you
16. I’ve been reading Keller’s book: “Forgive.” and I see how easily I can be the elder brother in withholding forgiveness, not realizing how sinful I am too. Do you do this? If so, how should we both talk to our souls? Yes I want what I want so it’s too easy to see their fault and ignore the plank in my eye God says to you. Come to me, let it go, set yourself free, forgive them. Don’t carry around negativity when that person comes to mind. Instead say it out loud that you forgive them and they owe you nothing.
So glad you are reading Forgive. So heart changing — isn’t it?
4. What did you learn from the above article?
Isaiah wasn’t saying that Jesus is the first person of the Trinity. Instead, he was trying to convey the character of Jesus towards us and how He treats us. Matt Menzel also clarified this point in his sermon, that this title isn’t referring to the Trinity.
5. Read John 14:8-11
A. What does Phillip ask, and how does Jesus respond?
Phillip asks Jesus to show us the Father. It almost seems a bit out of exasperation, as in they aren’t really understanding what Jesus has been saying to them and so Phillip just comes out with this statement. Jesus replies with a question to Phillip: “Don’t you know me, Phillip?” He says further that anyone who has seen Him, Jesus, has seen the Father, because “I am in the Father and the Father is in Me.”
B. Challenge Question: List three qualities that you associate with God the Father and then give a specific example of how those qualities were manifested in Jesus.
1) A father reaches out his hands to touch and comfort his child. I love the passage about fear in Isaiah in which he says “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not be afraid….I myself will help you.” Jesus couldn’t help but touch hurting people. When He cleansed a leper, He could’ve just said a word, but instead, He reached out and touched him.
2) A father calls his child (a girl/woman) daughter. My daughter. When the woman with a bleeding disorder touched the hem of his robe and was healed, and told Jesus the whole story, He sent her away in peace, calling her “Daughter”.
3) A father wants to provide for his children. It hurts him to see his children in trouble. Once when looking on the crowds, Jesus had compassion on them because to Him, they were like harassed sheep without a shepherd/provider.
3)
I love that passage in Isaiah too. I love the thought you expressed: Jesus couldn’t help but touch hurting people.
13. Read Luke 7:16-30 (I went with Dawns suggestion on 36-50)
A. Describe Jesus’ response to the immoral woman. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we rebel?
She washed His feet, kissed them, and anointed Him with oil. This is so crazy to me; the scene! I had trouble (it was awkward) washing my moms feet, much less kiss them! I can see the oil bit after the washing. But, she didn’t even know Him!
He loves us even in our dirtiness.
B. Describe Jesus’ response to the pharisee. How is He showing us the Father’s heart toward us when we default to works’ righteousness?
He told the homeowner that he didn’t wash His feet, greet Him with a kiss or anoint Him with olive oil. She did all. He said her sins were forgiven because of the love she had shown Him.
The Father will forgive most when we show our love. It’s not about ritualistic deeds.
14. Read Luke 7:25-31, asking God to show you His heart for you when you trust in yourself. What do you see?
I don’t think this is the right scripture? It doesn’t make sense to me 🤷🏻♀️
It should be Luke 15, I think.
So sorry– thanks, Michelle!
15. One of the symptoms of being an elder son can be seen when suffering comes into your life. You either are mad at God, because you think you’ve led a good life and yet you are suffering, or you are mad at yourself because you think if you’d led a better life this wouldn’t have happened. Have you responded with way? Be specific. Then — tell the truth to your soul about the gospel.
yes! I have been guilty of both 😩…
I have thought about the different heartaches in my life and how it doesn’t seem fair. I have also thought (wished) that I had kept in touch with God in college; how different it might have been.
Oh my soul! Be still and remember who you are; Jesus died for you! He loves You so much. He wanted you to be with Him forever. He sits, in your defense, next to God. Thank You Jesus, for that. It doesn’t matter what you have done. If you love them you will be with Him forever. Forgiven. Washed white, pure, clean. Sweetness. A perfect Father.
I have been listening to this song (below) for worship this week. It is called ¨O Come ye Unfaithful.¨ It reminds me of God´s mercy to me in this season– That Christ was born to heal my heartaches…. To minister to me in times of barrenness (physical for some and spiritual) and suffering… to convict me of my sin.. to demonstrate his perfect love even when I am unfaithful. I have been meditating on the above truths and Luke 1:78-79 ¨….the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, TO GUIDE OUR FEET INTO THE WAY OF PEACE.¨
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-QHbpYjuIg&list=RDC-QHbpYjuIg&start_radio=1
Thank you Ms. Dee. I am overwhelmed by your faithfulness to send this out each week. Participating in this is my favorite part of my day. I have sent your link to my friend in Papua, my sisters in Michigan and Utah and Georgia, and some fellow moms here. I love that we can be so far apart and yet worship the same Lord. God´s mercy is so sweet. I pray each of you are encouraged today.
Thank-you for sharing this beautiful video link. What an amazing song! Welcome, I have not seen you post before. This is a very unique Bible Study blog, to Dee’s credit. Your comment has encouraged me! Blessings.
Michelle,
Thank you for sharing this link. A beautiful way to start the day. I agree, this is my favorite part of the day!
Thank you for sharing this link Michelle. I echo your comments to Dee and her faithfulness in providing and participating in this bible study.
Oh Michelle — this means so much to me. Thanks for doing that. I so hope all of you can participate with us in January when we follow Paige doing James.
I already told them about the study in January!
Great!
Lovely song Michelle! Thank you for posting it. I’m in agreement with you here about Dee and this blog. It has literally saved me at times. Merry Christmas!
17. Meditate on Revelation 1:5-7 and describe how we will one day see Jesus. we will all see Him as a kingdom of priests to serve God and we will mourn because of Him.
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say? Set my mind and heart on Christ who is seated above at the right hand of the Father. My life is now hidden with Christ in God. When He appears I will appear with Him in glory.
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific.
The importance of this season is not the right gift or the right meal planned it is to be certain I point the way to the birth of our Savior. So as I have debated having the Christmas story read because we are having family gathering after Christmas. It is important regardless when we gather to read the story and celebrate our King.
20. If you listened to the sermon share your thoughts. (It was optional – -but if you did, share!)I listened to the sermon on Sunday and didn’t take notes. What I can remember is as Everlasting father JESUS represents a loving, wise sacrificial father. As we read about Jesus in scripture we are seeing the love compassion and just Father
17. Meditate on Revelation 1:5-7 and describe how we will one day see Jesus. We will see Him as the Ruler of the kings of the earth, He has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father. He will return with the clouds and every eye will see Him (I was discussing this with my son recently, he believes every eye will see Him because of the internet) all the peoples of the earth will mourn (there are so many who don’t really know Him, many attend church. When they see Him, they will know what they have missed)
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say? We have been raised with Christ, so we must set our hearts on things above. Where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. And set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. For we died and our lives are hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then we also will appear with Him in Glory.
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific. This topic was part of our Advent reading today, my son said he will focus on specific scriptures to remind him to set his heart and mind on things above. I told him about the “God hunts” searching for evidence of God’s work in our lives every day. Even in my business, with preparations and practice for the Christmas cantata, special meals with family and friends, I have been sensing little God nudges “I Am here, talk to Me…remember Who you are celebrating”!
20. If you listened to the sermon share your thoughts. (It was optional – -but if you did, share!)
I did listen to the sermon at the beginning of the week, Dee. I should have taken notes, now the thoughts have escaped me. I am sorry, I did enjoy the sermon very much. The parable of the prodigal is very important to me, because I was a prodigal and my son and youngest daughter were as well. This Parable helps me to see who God really is and how much He loves and pursues me.
Love this from Lydia:
Even in my business, with preparations and practice for the Christmas cantata, special meals with family and friends, I have been sensing little God nudges “I Am here, talk to Me…remember Who you are celebrating”!
I love the nudges you have received, dear Lydia. I have been silent this week, but enjoying the posts. I love to take time each day to Savor the journey to Bethlehem. So easy to get too busy to listen, but so love how He nudges. Thank you, Lydia.
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say?
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific.
I need to meditate on this passage. I’ve been so very upset over what I see clearly as a very bad decision by one of my children. It has rocked my world and upset my former loving and close relationship with this child. I’m seeing that I have made an idol of this child, deriving my identity as a good and sacrificing mother, feeling that I cannot live without a beautiful relationship with this child, and fearing greatly that all my hopes are being dashed for this child to love and serve God. These verses in Colossians admonish me to set my affections on things above and not on things in the earth, reminding me that my life is bound up and hidden in Christ, that He is my life! And one day I will see Him face to face and I will be with Him forever in glory. I find these verses to be strangely comforting in relation to my idol struggles now. Not that I shouldn’t love it child dearly and hope that he will love God supremely for his own well-being and the restoration of our relationship, but that I can rest in Him who is my life and Who has given me Himself in exchange for all of my anxiety and distress. Oh how beautiful this is for my situation. I need to meditate on this much! Thank you so much for this beautiful study. I so enjoyed Sylvia’s story and benefited from her words and Dee’s follow up teaching and testimony. Oh, how thankful and blessed I am to be able to be a part of this beautiful group. I miss you all so much when I can’t be here and pray God will allow me more time in the future. Finding it difficult now with being a single mom of adopted teens and sole support of the family. God is teaching me so very much in this time. Praying for your opportunity of witness with M.J. and Kate. Much love to all of you.
Oh Miriam — I get that! We pour ourselves into a child and when rejected it is SOOO painful. And despite all that pain you are praying for M.J. and Kate. Yesterday at pickleball M.J> told me she is reading Idol Lies. She’s not a believer. So thank you!!!!
Oh, Missy. This tugs at my heartstrings! I relate so well to this struggle and I give it to God daily. I need to let go of my prodigal and have no bitterness toward him, but compassion for him being astray on the rocky crags of confusion. I have been so guilty of making an idol of my child. How I pray that the Lord God, our Everlasting Father, will draw our lost sheep to Himself and bring them home. Thank you for your beautiful thoughts.
I love this and I am going to keep what you posted: Not that I shouldn’t love it child dearly and hope that he will love God supremely for his own well-being and the restoration of our relationship, but that I can rest in Him who is my life and Who has given me Himself in exchange for all of my anxiety and distress. Oh how beautiful this is for my situation. I need to meditate on this much!
21. What is your take-a-way and why? I have never thought of Jesus as everlasting Father even though through God s grace I memorized that scripture off a Christmas card because the verse touched my spirit. So I know the scripture if you have seen Me you have seen the Father. What a loving portrait of the Father as I read the gospels. Ladies, I will go back over your week s answers and pray for situations.
17. Meditate on Revelation 1:5-7 and describe how we will one day see Jesus.
We will see Jesus coming with the clouds and every eye will see Him. (Acts 1:11 “This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”)
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say?
We have been raised with Christ, so we are to continue to seek the things above, where Christ is seated next to God. Set our minds on the things above, not on the earthly things. When Christ is revealed, then we also will be revealed with Him in Glory. This reminds me of your Pickleball get together, Dee. When all things discussed are “under the sun”, it is hard to know how to fit in or interact….yet, your connection through Pickleball is a path to bring you into community with these dear women. Praying for MJ and Katy to have hearts open. It is so much easier to talk one on one. Praying that the Lord will lead you in this.
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific.
Every year, we try to simplify more and focus on others, those in need, yet keep time to SAVOR the true meaning of Advent. This can be challenging, but the closer it gets to Christmas, the more I try to take quiet time (even in the middle of the night) to reflect on the Savior’s birth; the true meaning of this time. We do less gifting and more reading.
20. If you listened to the sermon share your thoughts. (It was optional – -but if you did, share!)
I loved Matt’s sermon. It called me to focus on The full manifestation of Who God is; the Radiance of His Glory. He is full of compassion and humility. (Gentle and Lowly) He loved to explain grace to the broken. He love to explain the law to the proud. We each need to acknowledge Him on the throne of our life, before we can know Him as Savior. Surrender to Him as King of Kings and He will show Himself to you as Everlasting Father.
From Patti:
We do less gifting and more reading.
6. What do you learn about Jesus from Colossians 1:15-20? Does anything become radioactive? If so, what – and why?
Jesus is the image of the invisible God – He makes God visible to us. He is the firstborn over all creation. All things were created in Him – everything, meaning things on earth, in heaven, things that are seen and unseen. Everything is held together in Him. Jesus is the head of the body, the church. Jesus is the firstborn from among the dead. He has supremacy in all things. God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Jesus. Jesus reconciles all things to God. Jesus made peace with God possible for us through His blood.
7. In his sermon, Matt Menzel made himself vulnerable in saying he didn’t want to preach this sermon because he has a hard relationship with his earthly father, and though he and his wife have tried to have children, either biologically or through adoption, those plans have failed. What would you tell someone like that about relating to God as Father?
Listen, and acknowledge their very real hurt and disappointment. I would encourage them to get to know God, the Father, and to let Him show himself to them as trustworthy, reliable, loving, and true, and that will take time, but take little steps towards God and He will be there to meet you.
16. I’ve been reading Keller’s book: “Forgive.” and I see how easily I can be the elder brother in withholding forgiveness, not realizing how sinful I am too. Do you do this? If so, how should we both talk to our souls?
Sometimes, it’s a self-righteous attitude of, “I do all the “right” things and get no payback.” In truth, we want as many as possible to come to Christ. I am already on board. I don’t need convincing. Oh soul! Realize this….you have God. Others do not and need more care. Be kind. There’s enough love from God to go around!
17. Meditate on Revelation 1:5-7 and describe how we will one day see Jesus.
He will come in the clouds of heaven.
18. Read Colossians 3:1-4. What does it say?
It reminds me to set my sights on heaven, not this world. Think of heavenly things. My true life is with Him. In the end I will receive the glory as Christ does.
19. How might you apply this during these final weeks of Advent for yourself or those you love? Be specific.
I can remind myself of the true meaning of Christmas. I can watch The Shepherd, the pilot for “The Chosen” to remember that “People must know.” I can gently encourage others to seek heaven, not earth.
20. If you listened to the sermon share your thoughts. (It was optional – -but if you did, share!)
I listened but it was at the beginning of the week!
I love the idea that Jesus is the Father and the Spirit and we can honor them through Him because God gave Him this glory.
He loved to hang with the sinners so He could show grace to the broken.
We want the kingdom without the king (younger brother).
He has never forsaken us.
Your Father wanted you to have a way home. For you to find rest.
The Everlasting Father has rebellious children, lays His life down for His children, has compassion for his children, forgives His children and lives His children.
There is no ending to this story. Jesus left it open for us.