Key Thought : The Christian is to use the gifts of personal and material resources God has given them to reflect His benevolence.

[Teaching plan for The Christian Life December 10, 2012]

1. Have a volunteer read I John 3:16.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. How well do we do in helping the poor in our community?
C. Personal Application: Is there anyone inside the church that you would be willing to risk your life for? Is there anyone in the church you would give all your possessions to in helping them to be safe? Share.
D. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “What are some of the challenges of focusing on taking care of the poor as our primary goal? Is taking care of other’s needs an end in itself? What kind of responsibility do we have in taking care of the needs of others?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read Nehemiah 10:38,39.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What is the purpose and the intent of the tithe paid to the church? Do you think the tithe is being used for its intended purpose? Share.
C. Personal Application: Do you think your tithe is making a difference in the church and world for Christ’s mission? Is it an obligation you pay and don’t think about it much?
D. Case Study: One of your friends states, “Do you think tithe should be given to the local church to be sent to the conference, or can I use my tithe for programs and ministries I want to support directly?” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 5:28.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. If a person has self-image issues, or low self-esteem, can that person have a healthy marriage and relationship with their spouse? Share your thoughts.
C. Personal Application: In what ways do you show your spouse that you love them? Do you tell them? Do things for them? Share.
D. Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “Marriage is a legal term as an institution of the state. Two people can live together for years, and that can be marriage. The state calls it common law marriage. Gay people can get married in some states now as legal. Whatever the state says marriage is, that is the definition of marriage.” How would you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read Romans 13:1-7.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. Why does resisting civil and church authority bring damnation to those resisting? Why is paying taxes and obeying laws a duty of faithful Christians?
C. Personal Application: Have you ever resisted a teacher, boss, or public official? How does this text apply to your attitude in these situations? 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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