Though Mary, the mother of Jesus, has been the subject of an intense amount of religious interest through the centuries, most of that interest is tradition derived from a host of sources that are not rooted in Scripture. Nevertheless, in the question of Christ’s coming to earth, Mary played a crucial and pivotal role: in … Continue reading –>
Key Thought: By His example in life and word, Jesus reinforced the need for God’s supremacy in our thoughts and service, and the importance of worshipping in spirit and truth.. 1. Have a volunteer read Luke 4:5-8. A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is. … Continue reading –>
A TRUE STORY A few weeks ago I saw a strange and brilliant display of color and watched for a minute or two as lovely pastel colors floated in perfect circles in a row across my vision. Most of my vision was blocked by the display except for a slice along the bottom portion. I … Continue reading –>
Key Thought: There is temptation to relax our vigilance in God’s service and conform to worldly customs. Confession, repentance, and obedience are still responsibilities for God’s presence among His people.
1. Have a volunteer read Ezekiel 8:9-14.
A S T O R Y “Is being a Christian easy or hard?” Mike asked. “Easy,” said Ted. “If you love Jesus, then following Him is the easiest thing in the world to do.” “But what if people poke fun at you or ignore you because you’re a Seventh-day Adventist Christian? Is that easy?” “No, … Continue reading –>
Key Thought: When we sense the presence of God, we will need soul cleansing. Then we are to live humbly with Him, serving all with justice and mercy. 1. Have a volunteer read Micah 6:6-8. A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is. B. How … Continue reading –>
In a previous post I commented on three types of worship, including personal worship, and some have asked me to expand on the latter. Personal worship has come under some scrutiny recently with the rise in interest in “spiritual formation.” The topic is quite relevant to the lesson on Conformity, Compromise and Crisis in Worship because … Continue reading –>
Make Your Own Music The psalmist David loved music. Maybe he played the drum or blew on a horn. Or maybe he sang in a sweet tenor voice. The Bible doesn’t tell us. But the Bible tells us clearly that David played a harp. David learned to express his deepest feelings in music. Have you … Continue reading –>
“I liked that joke the pastor told in the sermon this morning,” Rolly said during lunch at home after the church service. “Didn’t you?” He shot a look at his dad and then his mom. “Joke?” repeated Dad. “I didn’t hear a joke.” “Honey, you were late getting to the sanctuary today,” Rolly’s mom said. … Continue reading –>
See Rejoicing Before the Lord: The Sanctuary and Worship (July 23) Key Thought: The sanctuary worship services centered on God’s provisions to save us from sin and make us holy on a daily basis. 1. Have a volunteer read Exodus 25:1-9. A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea … Continue reading –>
