Key Thought: Paul faced many circumstances, but he saw a large purpose for what happened to him. And we can learn from him when we face our own trials.
January 3, 2026

1. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 3:1.

1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
2. What is the significance of how Paul characterises his imprisonment?
3. Personal Application: How do we learn to make the best of whatever tough situation we find ourselves in? Why is that not always easy to do? Share your thoughts.
4. Case Study: How do you respond when unjustly treated? What Bible promises can you suggest during these times? How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read 2 Corinthians 4:7-12, 6:3-7.

1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
2. How was Paul able to endure the trials he faced? What was the focus of his life?
3. Personal Application: What spiritual resources did Paul have available to help him face these difficulties? Share your thoughts.
4. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “How, as clergy or laity, can you as ministers of God, commend yourselves? What does that mean?” How would you respond to your relative?

3. Have a volunteer read Philemon 15,16 and Colossians 4:

1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
2. What course did Paul gently urge Philemon to pursue with Onesimus?
3. Personal Application: However much we detest slavery in any form, how do we come to terms with what Paul says here? Share your thoughts.
4. Case Study: One of your friends states, “What are some ways we can support those who suffer persecution for their faith?.” How would you respond to your friend?

4. Have a volunteer read Philippians 1:1-3, Colossians 1:1,2

1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
2. How are the churches described and what significance does the depictions have?
3. Personal Application: What does Paul mean when he says “rejoive always”? How are we supposed to do that in physical pain, emotional distress, or in adversity? Share your thoughts.
4. 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.

(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. ”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).

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