03: Thessalonica in Paul’s Day – Teaching Plan
Key Thought : Presenting the gospel in a way that meets the needs of others requires a solid grasp of the Word and an understanding of the needs of those we wish to reach.
[Teaching plan for “Thessalonica in Paul’s Day” July 16.2012]
1. Have a volunteer read John 11:48-50.
A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. How does the current political situation in your community affect the work of the church?
C. Personal Application: If another church seems to have success in your area because of a certain program or method, could you suggest that your church also try to emulate that method or program? Why or why not?
D. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “Why doesn’t your church try harder to get involved in community and local governmental activities and programs to improve its place and standing in the community?” How would you respond to your relative?
2. Have a volunteer read I Corinthians 9:22-27.
A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Paul’s strategy in missionary work?
C. Personal Application: What does it mean to keep your body in subjection? What challenges do you have in this area of self-denial or lack thereof? Share.
D. Case Study: One of your friends states, “How could Paul say that he could be a castaway? Does that mean he thought he could be lost? What does it mean to be temperate in all things so that we wouldn’t be a castaway?” How would you respond to your friend?
3. Have a volunteer read I Corinthians 9:13-18.
A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. Is Paul stating here that the tithes should pay the minister’s salary or that the minister should be fed and housed by church members? Would where a person lived, or whether he was a stationary pastor or a missionary make a difference? Share.
C. Personal Application: Why did Paul choose to work and not rely on the church members to support his ministry?
1) Do you think missionaries should be paid a substantial salary as they live in a foreign land with minimal needs and expenses?
D. Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “I give five or ten dollars every week to the church to help the pastor. He has a second job during the week, so he takes care of himself. He doesn’t need our money to make him rich like some of those megachurch flamboyant preachers.” How do you respond to your neighbor?
4. Have a volunteer read I Thessalonians 4:11,12.
A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What does it mean to study to be quiet? Was Paul telling them not to preach and teach the gospel, or was he encouraging them to be diligent, hard workers?
C. Personal Application: How does being a hard worker and good co-worker influence others in your Christian witness? Is it enough to work hard and be quiet, or are we to vocalize our faith as well? Share.
D. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.
(Note: “Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.” MH p. 149)
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