Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Study of Acts of the Apostles pt. 2 (cont'd)

4. Prayer - vs. 42

For what purpose? Seeking wisdom, guidance, encouragement from God. Lifting up needs of members of the groups. Praying for healing – physical, emotional, spiritual. Worship God. Praying for family members/friends/neighbors/enemies. Draw closer to God.

5. Ministering to others/evangelism - vs. 45 - Sharing property and possessions with anyone in need.

a) Who falls under the category of “anyone”? Believer and non-believer

b) For what purpose? Following Christ’s example. He gave up the riches of
heaven in order to meet the needs of humanity – the greatest being salvation.
A fellow believer in need (food, clothing, shelter), the group met the need.
Neighbors who were non-believers in need (food, clothing, shelter), the group
met the need. Neighbor ask why – opportunity to witness

6. Praising God/Worship - vs. 47 a) How do you suppose they praised God?
See Ephesians 5: 19; Colossians 3: 16 - psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, making
melody, singing songs of thankfulness

b) For what purpose? Worship; giving God glory

3. What was the local community’s response to the early believers? Found favor with all people – includes non-believers.

4. What was God’s response to the early Church? - vs. 47 Blessings – added to their number daily new believers.

5. What role did Church play in the lives of early Christians?

Discipleship - nurtured spiritual growth (milk to meat), place of encouragement/support, promoted unity, avenue of service/outreach to church body and local community, and promoted worship.

6. What impact did the early Church have on the Local Community? vs. 45, 47
- Evangelism – meeting needs, offering hope

Acts 2:43 – Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe. Awe – submissive and admiring fear inspired by authority or power. When did they feel sense of awe? What inspired it? Not because of signs and wonders. Those came after awe. Awe resulted from church experience.

Definition of church - An assembly of believers who continually devote themselves to studying the Word, fellowship, breaking of bread, prayer, ministry, and praising God. Purposes - Nurture spiritual growth, encouragement, service/outreach to church body and community, and worship.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Study of Acts of the Apostles pt. 2

What is a Church?

I. Introduction

If someone on the street came up to you and asked, “What is a church?” what would you tell them?

II. Origin of Small Group Ministry - Acts 2:42-47

1. The church that was established after Pentecost met where? (Hint: two places) The first Christians gathered at the temple (large group) and in homes (small groups.) They left the temple and gathered in smaller numbers in people’s homes.

2. When the first Christians met together, they continually devoted themselves to doing what? For what purposes?

Continually – on a regular basis; constantly

Devoting – to give attention to; to be faithful; to spend much time together

1. vs. 42 “the apostles’ teaching …”

a) How did that work? Listen to Peter or John teach in the temple about Jesus. Shared the teachings of Jesus (ex. Sermon on the Mount). Use the Old Testament to prove that Jesus was the Promised Messiah. People would gather in their homes to discuss what they heard. Ex. Love your enemy, forgiveness.

For what purpose? To become Christ-like; to have the mind of Christ; to be salt of the earth.

2. Fellowship - vs. 42

a) Define fellowship - Greek koinonia - the close association between persons, emphasizing what is common between them. What was common? Christ. Love, worship, serve, Christ. Their desire to be more like Him.

b) For what purpose? Hebrews 10:24-25 – Someone in group share how God blessed them – gave

encouragement to someone who needed to hear it. Someone had a rough day or week, share with

group, group expressed love/encouragement.

3. Breaking of bread - vs. 42

a) What does this mean? 1. Communion 2. Share a meal together.

b) How did it work? Vs. 46 – from house to house breaking bread; sharing meals together.

c) For what purpose? 1. Remember Christ’s sacrifice 2. Promote fellowship. A time of happiness, joy

Study of Acts of the Apostles pt. 1

Define “act” - anything done, being done, or to be done; deed

The Book of Acts focuses on the deeds/activities of the apostles.

What is an apostle and how is an apostle different from a disciple? A disciple is a student/learner/ pupil. An apostle (Greek word- Apostolos) is a messenger sent to spread a message. In the case of the Book of Acts the message is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Author – Luke, author of Gospel of Luke. He was a Greek which meant he was a Gentile (a non-Jew.) He played an active role in the growth of Christianity. Luke joined Paul on his missionary journeys. In Colossians 4:14, Paul referred to Luke as a physician which meant he was well educated. Luke’s educational background produced a well organized and detailed account of the birth and development of the Church.

When – Written about 70 A.D.

Where – Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and eastern Roman Empire.

Purpose – The purpose of the book of Acts was to tell the story of the origins of the Church for future generations to remember and reflect on. Abigail Adams, wife of John Adams, wrote in a letter to her friend during the dark days of the American Revolution: "Posterity, who are to reap the blessings, will scarcely be able to conceive the hardships and sufferings of their ancestors." In studying the roles played by the Founding Fathers and Mothers – sacrifices made (family, wealth, life itself) we gain a renewed appreciation/respect for what they did. We also answer the question, what have we, “the posterity,” done with the blessings that came from the hardships and sufferings of our ancestors? Consequently, through the study of history, we also learn about ourselves as Americans – the bad and good. Apply what we just talked about to the book of Acts. In studying the roles played by the Apostles and other individuals in the birth and development of the Church (Within 30 years, Christianity spread from 120 people in Jerusalem to thousands of people in the eastern Roman Empire.) – sacrifices made (family, wealth, life itself) we gain a renewed appreciation/respect for what they did. We also answer the question, what have we, “the posterity,” done with the blessings that came from the hardships and sufferings of our Christian ancestors? Consequently, through the study of history, we also learn about ourselves as Christians – the bad and good.

Outline -
I. Birth of the Church in Jerusalem (Acts 1-8:3)
II. The Church spreads to Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:4-12)
III. The Church spreads to rest of the world – the Journeys of Paul (Acts 13-28)

Key verse: but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

Interesting facts – The followers of Jesus in the book of Acts were first referred to not as the Church or Christians but the Way. The term has its origins in John 14:6 - Jesus said … "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” That was message being spread by the first believers.

Holy Spirit pt. 6

Acts 2:1-13

15. When did the Holy Spirit arrive? Day of Pentecost. The word Pentecost in Greek means “fiftieth.” It refers to a Jewish spring festival (Feast of Weeks – Deuteronomy 16:9-12) celebrated fifty days after the beginning of the autumn grain harvest. Pentecost was the last day of grain harvest (late May, early June.) On Pentecost, all Jewish males were required to come to the temple in Jerusalem to give a freewill offering “in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you” followed by community celebrations. Pentecost is comparable to our Thanksgiving. Remember, all Jewish males from wherever they called home in the world were requires to attend.

16. How did the Holy Spirit make known His arrival? A) a noise like a violent rushing wind. Remember the Greek word for Spirit? Pneuma – associated with a movement of air like breath or the wind which can be felt but not seen. B) tongues as of fire that separated themselves and rested on the heads of the believers gathered in the upper room. What is the significance of the Holy Spirit appearing as tongues of fire? a) Tongue in the Greek is glossa – 1) a member of the body used for speech; 2) a language or dialect. b) Fire represents cleansing. Burning away of impurities. The hearts of the believers were being refined/purified by fire to be an abode/house for the “Holy” Spirit of God.

17. After they were filled with the Holy Spirit, what did the followers of Jesus begin to do? Speaking other languages.

18. Who were in Jerusalem at the time? Devout Jews from every nation – Jews and Gentiles who converted to Judaism (see verses 9-11) Why were they there? To celebrate Pentecost ( see question 15) What was their reaction to the followers of Jesus speaking in other languages? Most were amazed. Others mocked. Accused the followers of Jesus of being drunk.

19. Who refuted the accusations of the mockers (vs. 14)? Peter. Read Acts 2:14-41 this week. Verses 16-21 – Peter declares that what was happening was a fulfillment of a prophecy made by Joel. Verses 17-36 – Preached the death and resurrection of Jesus. Pointed finger at Jews for putting Jesus to death but also offered them repentance and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Result – In one day, 3000 souls became followers of Jesus.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Holy Spirit 101 pt. 5

Acts-present – God the Holy Spirit – God came to earth to abide (Meno – not to depart/continually dwell) in His followers. He no longer limits His fellowship to certain individuals as He did in the Old Testament. He is not limited by flesh to be in one place at one time as He was in the Gospels. God is presently in the hearts of all believers. God is personally able to teach, comfort, help, and counsel millions of people. There is a close, intimate bond between God and His followers beginning in Acts that continues to today that did not exist prior to Acts. Followers of God today have greater access to God than people who lived before the time of the Books of Acts. Why? The death of Jesus cleansed us of what separated us from God – sin. By taking upon Himself the punishment for our sins, Jesus made it possible for us to have a one-on-one relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures that describe the Trinity working together:
Matthew 28:19; John 1:1-5, 14; John 14:16, 25; John 15:26; John 16:14, 15; Romans 8:9-11.

Today, we acknowledge God in all His manifestations:

God the Father – He is our provider, protector, authority figure, rule maker, enforcer of rules (disciplinarian), teacher.

God the Son – He is our Savior. He came to earth in flesh to free us from the fear of death; to take upon Himself the punishment for our sins; to be the example of how to live life.

God the Holy Spirit –God in us. He is our teacher, comforter, helper, encourager, counselor, and intercessor.

Pentecost - Arrival of the Holy Spirit

Read Acts 1:1-14

11. What did Jesus command his followers? Do not leave Jerusalem until you have received the gift of the Holy Spirit. He will be arriving soon.

12. When His followers receive the power of the Holy Spirit, what are they to do? They were to be Jesus’ witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the rest of the world.

13. What happened to Jesus? Ascended into Heaven.

14. What did the followers of Jesus do afterwards? Went to an upper room where they were staying and prayed constantly/devoted themselves to prayer. Sabbath’s day journey – According to Jewish teachings, a faithful Jew could travel no further than ¾ miles.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Holy Spirit 101 pt. 4

c) judgment – vs. 11. The Holy Spirit will bring to light the fact that judgment has come against this world (kosmos). Evil/wickedness will be held accountable for its actions and God’s vengeance will be poured out upon it. Evidence – “the ruler of this world has been judged (convicted/found guilty and sentenced).” Who is the ruler of this world (kosmos)? Satan/the Enemy/the Adversary. Throughout Jesus’ life and ministry, Satan had labored to prevent Jesus from dying on the cross. Jesus’ death on the cross meant salvation for humanity from the power/authority of Satan. Read Hebrews 2:14-15. Once Jesus made the decision to die on the cross, it was “game over” for the slim/minuscule chance Satan had to defeat God’s plan of salvation. Because the ruler of this world (kosmos) has been judged and sentenced so has this world (kosmos) he has authority over. The Holy Spirit’s presence and activities in this (kosmos) is a constant reminder to the ruler of this world (kosmos) that He has been judged and sentenced.

8) vs. 12. What did Jesus say to the disciples? I have a lot more to talk to you about but you are not ready to receive it all now. There were many more things Jesus wanted to teach the disciples, including about the Holy Spirit. However, they were not mature enough to understand it all. They were still in spiritual kindergarten. They were having a hard time grasping everything Jesus had already shared with them. Their brains were about to explode.

9) vs. 13-15. What encouragement did Jesus give the disciples? The Holy Spirit will teach them truth (See question 5.) Where does the truth the Holy Spirit speak come from? Jesus. Read John 14:6. The Holy is not an independent player. He is not a rogue player who acts separate from God and Jesus. He acts and speaks in concert/unity with God and Jesus. In fact, all three are on the same page. All three are manifestations of God. Manifestation - One of the forms in which someone is revealed … which leads into our discussion of the Holy Trinity.

10. What is the Holy Trinity? A term given to describe the unique nature of God. The Holy Trinity is not a concept that is easily explained or understood. The key word to know in order to explain/understand the Holy Trinity is manifestation - One of the forms in which someone is revealed. In Scripture and in history, God revealed Himself to humanity in three ways: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

Old Testament – God the Father – God acted as a father to His Chosen people the children of Israel/Hebrews/Jews. What is the role(s) of a father? Provider, protector, authority figure, rule maker, enforcer of rules (disciplinarian), teacher. As God the Father, He limited His manifestation to individuals – Abraham, Moses, Samuel, the prophets (Elijah, Jeremiah, Jonah, Isaiah, etc.). Why? Don’t know for sure. Perhaps it had to do with the fallen nature of humanity. Prior to the Fall of Man in the Garden of Eden, God came down from Heaven to regularly fellowship with Adam and Eve. After the Fall, that fellowship became disrupted. Afterwards, God limited His manifestation to individuals of His choosing often as part of a call to carry out His purpose.

Gospels – God the Son – God came to earth in the form of a human being. Why? Author of Hebrews lists three reasons: 1) Through death He would free humanity from the fear of death. 2) Take upon Himself the bloody punishment for the sins of humanity. 3) To be an example of righteous living – doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong. While in flesh, God experienced every temptation known to man and successfully triumphed over them. In order to fulfill these purposes, God had to manifest Himself in a manner different from God the Father. God could not come down to earth in His full appearance. This world could not and cannot contain the fullness of God’s presence. Heaven itself is barely able to contain it. Moreover, God the Father cannot die; He cannot feel physical or emotional pain; He cannot be tempted. Therefore, God in a miraculous/seemingly impossible way put himself in human flesh and manifested Himself to humanity as God the Son. He experienced everything that humanity experienced – physical and emotional pain, temptation, and death. Consequently, we have a God who can relate to our life experiences – poverty, adversity, suffering, stress, joy, happiness, grief, sorrow, temptation.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Holy Spirit 101 part 3

Read John 16:5-15

6) vs. 7. Jesus said it is good that He was leaving the disciples, why? If He didn’t leave the Holy Spirit could not come to them.

7) When the Holy Spirit does come, what will He do in regards to the world?

Greek word for world is Kosmos. It is a world system made up people, technology, thoughts, activities, actions, words, philosophies, beliefs, desires. Things we can see and things we can’t see. Things that are tangible and things that are not tangible. They all interact with one another to produce a world system (kosmos). How would you characterize the world system (kosmos) we have created … that our technology, thoughts, activities, actions, words, philosophies, beliefs, desires has constructed? Evil; sinful; ungodly. According to Jesus, the one who rules this evil, sinful, ungodly world system (kosmos) is the Enemy, Satan. He dominates this world system (kosmos). He influences/molds people, technology, thoughts, activities, actions, words, philosophies, beliefs, desires to promote evil/wickedness. To create a world system (kosmos) that promotes evil/wickedness … makes evil/wickedness the norm.

Jesus says when the Holy Spirit comes into this world (kosmos) He will convict it. Convict in the Greek means “to expose; find fault with by bringing to light.” Holy Spirit is not only a defense attorney, He is also a prosecutor. The Holy Spirit is a defense attorney for the followers of Jesus. He is a prosecutor against the followers of Satan. In order to convict someone, what must a prosecutor do? Present evidence to prove his case against the accused. Bring to light proof that the accused is guilty. In John 16, who is the accused? This evil, sinful, ungodly world system (kosmos) that we live in ruled by Satan.

The Holy Spirit will convict the world (kosmos)concerning:

Reminder: Jesus is giving the disciples a short summary/outline/template of who the Holy Spirit is and His role in the lives of Jesus’ followers. He does not have a lot of time left. At this moment, Judas is leading a mob to arrest Jesus. Jesus does not have to time to go into detail about the Holy Spirit. Even if He did, the disciples were not spiritually mature enough to comprehend everything Jesus had to say. As we’ll see, Jesus assures the disciples that more information about the Holy Spirit will be forthcoming in the future.

a) sin – vs. 9. The Holy Spirit will expose/bring to light the sin of the world (kosmos). He will make lucid/plain/unambiguous/coherent what sin is. Exhibit number 1 in His case will be the fact the world (kosmos) does not believe in Jesus. This world (kosmos) does not believe Him to be the Son of God. You do not believe in Jesus, you are guilty of sin. You do, you are innocent. Read John 3:16

b) righteousness – vs. 10. Righteousness means to be in right standing with God/doing what is right according to God’s standards. Up to this point, it has been Jesus acting as prosecutor against the world (kosmos) – see Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7) for an example. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus defined what it means to be truly righteous, a true follower of God, and how the world (kosmos) fell short of God’s definition of righteousness. He did so throughout his three years of ministry. But, soon Jesus is leaving to go be with the Father. So who will now act as prosecutor against the world (kosmos)? The Holy Spirit will take on the role of prosecuter against the world (kosmos) in regards to righteousness. He will confront this world (kosmos) with the definition of true righteousness and this world (kosmos) will be found sorely lacking. Example –What is the world view regarding sex outside of marriage, abortion, or pursuit of wealth? The Holy Spirit acts as prosecutor by presenting evidence (the Word of God) that condemns the world (kosmos) in this area. What the world (kosmos) tries to present to humanity as something enjoyable, fun, pleasurable, the Holy Spirit exposes as evil, putrid, ungodly. For a moment, imagine a world (kosmos) with no Holy Spirit to counteract the evil of this world (kosmos). It’s a scary thought.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Holy Spirit 101 pt. 2

b) Holy Spirit – Define holy – divine; sacred; without blemish; set apart. The Holy Spirit has a divine nature. There is no sin in Him. He has no part with sin. (5. Holy Spirit is a divine being not an earthly being.)

c) Parakletos – legal word. Definition - one who pleads another's cause before a judge, counsel for defense, legal assistant, an advocate. In other words, the Holy Spirit is a lawyer. English translators used English variations of the Greek word Parakletos.

Comforter – one who gives comfort, consolation, relief, encouragement. Remember, the disciples are sorely troubled/upset at the thought of Jesus leaving them. They are in dire need of comfort and Jesus knew that.

Helper – one who helps/assists/supports. As we’ll see in the book of Acts, the disciples are going to need a lot of help to overcome opposition to the Gospel in the form of persecution.

Counselour – an adviser who offers wisdom/counsel when making decisions. In the case of the Holy Spirit, decisions that relate to obeying God or not obeying God. Before you make your decision, the Holy Spirit will bring to mind everything you need to know in order to make the right choice. Specifically, the Word of God as well as the consequences from making the wrong choice.

Intercessor/Advocate – someone who acts on behalf of someone in difficulty or trouble. The Holy Spirit acts as an intercessor between the followers of Christ and God. He speaks on our behalf to God when we’re going through adversity, trials, tribulations or experiencing temptations. He pleads to God on our behalf for God’s power, grace, compassion, mercy, love, wisdom, healing, etc., to help us overcome. See Romans 8:26-27

If you were in legal trouble, wouldn’t you want a lawyer with the above qualities? Someone who is generally concerned about your plight and will use every means at his/her disposal to help you win your case. (6. Holy Spirit is our Comforter/Helper/Counselour/Intercessor/Advocate)

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Holy Spirit 101 pt. 1

Backround: Jesus is only hours away from being betrayed, put on trial, and put to death. John chapters 14-17 contain His farewell address to his disciples. He has much to share with them but little time to do it in. One of the important matters He wants to make known to the disciples is the Holy Spirit – who He is and what role He will play in their lives and the lives of all believers. Because of the limited time He has as well as the spiritual immaturity of the disciples, Jesus cannot and does not go into great detail about the Holy Spirit. Additional knowledge of the Holy Spirit would come with time. He shares just enough to give his disciples encouragement. So it will be with you and me in this study of the Holy Spirit. We will not be covering every facet of the Holy Spirit. Just as you don’t feed a 32 ounce porterhouse steak to a newborn baby and expect him to digest it, you don’t do an in depth theological exploration of the Holy Spirit in a Bible 101 class. In this study, I will be following Jesus’ example … I will share with you who the Holy Spirit is and what His role is in the life of a follower of Christ.

Read John 14:15-26; 15:26-27

1) In these verses, Jesus repeatedly says that a person who loves Him will do what? Will keep His commandments/word. A person who does not keep His commandments/word does not love Jesus. The key to knowing Jesus … to having a relationship with Jesus is to obey His word. The disciples were probably wondering if Jesus was about to go away, who will teach them His word … who will help them remember everything Jesus taught them? Was Jesus going to abandon them? In John 14:5, Thomas asked the question “Lord, we do not know where you are going, how can we know the way?”

2) After Jesus leaves His followers who will come to be with them? The Holy Spirit. For how long would he be with them? Forever. Jesus is not going to abandon His followers. They will not be orphans (vs. 18.) From whom will he come from? God the Father (14:16, 26; 15:26.) Just as God sent Jesus to earth to be with humanity (John 3:16), God will send the Holy Spirit to be with humanity. Unlike Jesus, who was on earth for a short period of time, the Holy Spirit will be with humanity forever. (1. Holy Spirit is eternal.)

3) vs. 17. Can the Holy Spirit be seen? No. (2. Holy Spirit is invisible.) Spirit in Greek is Pneuma – associated with a movement of air like breath or the wind which can be felt but not seen. The Holy Spirit will not be a physical being like Jesus. Despite that, a follower of Christ will know Him. How? See Question 4.

4) vs. 17. Where will the Holy Spirit dwell? In the followers of Christ. Greek word for abide/live is Meno – not to depart/continually dwell. The Holy Spirit will not be a transient visitor. He will take up residence within the followers of Christ. (3. Holy Spirit is omnipresent – Everywhere at once)

5) List the three titles Jesus gives the Spirit. What does each title tell us about the character and/or role of the Spirit?

a) Spirit of truth – teach truth and aid Jesus’ followers to remember truth (vs. 26) – The truth about what things? All things about God and Jesus – what it means to be a follower of Jesus. He will do so by 1) helping the followers of Jesus remember His words (14:26) so that they can do what we discussed in Question 1. (See Luke 12:11-12) for an example of Holy Spirit helping the followers of Jesus to remember His words.) The Holy Spirit will teach truth by 2) testifying about Jesus to His followers (15:26.) What does testify mean? Greek word is Martureo – to bear witness that one has seen, heard, or experienced something/someone. Because of the unique nature of their relationship, the Holy Spirit knows Jesus thoroughly. One of his primary responsibilities is to make known this knowledge of Jesus to His followers. (4. Holy Spirit is a teacher.)

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Walking with Peter: the Crucible

Definition of crucible - a place or situation in which concentrated forces interact to influence development.

Peter had experienced a crucible in the hours after Christ’s betrayal. Intense, stressful, high anxiety. He failed. Peter almost allowed that failure to influence his development as a follower of Christ …. To go back to fishing rather than become an apostle. Were it not for Christ’s intervention in John 21, he probably would have.

Summarize the healing of the lame man at the temple gate. Acts 3:1-10.

Read Acts 3:11-26

1. What was the people’s response to the healing of the lame man? All the people in the temple area ran to see what was going on. They were amazed at what they saw. They began to crowd around Peter and John.

2. When Peter saw the crowd what did he proceed to do? Speak to the crowd. Deliver a sermon.

3. What qualities do you see in Peter in the way he delivered his sermon? Boldness, courageous, direct, straightforward.

Read Acts 4:1-7

1. vs. 1-3. What happened to Peter and John? They were placed under arrest. Why? a) For teaching the people – only priests (Sadducees) and teachers of the law (Pharisees) had authority to teach the people about God. b) Speaking in the name of Jesus – an outlaw/a criminal c) proclaiming the resurrection of the dead. Why would the Sadducees have a problem with the latter? They did not believe in the resurrection.

2. vs. 4. What was the outcome of Peter’s sermon? 5000 men believed their message and became Christians. The total does not include women and children who probably believed as well.

3. Peter and John spent the night in jail. What do you think was going through their minds? What do you think they were doing? Probably praying.

4. vs. 5-6 - Who were these guys? Pharisees and Sadducees who made up the Sanhedrin – the highest Jewish religious court. It was similar to our Supreme Court. These men were the same men who tried Jesus. These were the same men who cursed, mocked, spat, and beat Jesus with their fists. These were the same men who handed Jesus over to the Gentile Romans to be put to death. These were the same men who rallied the people to cry out for Jesus’ blood. Did Peter know who these guys were? Yes he did.

5. vs. 7 - Where did Peter and John stand? In the center. Why? The Sanhedrin did this in an effort to intimidate Peter and John. Instill fear in them. Peter and John stood in the same spot where Jesus stood during his trial only four and five months earlier. Peter was standing where his Master stood. This is a crucible moment. Forces are interacting here. Peter being pressured in the temporal and spiritual realms. Temporal - Sanhedrin. Spiritual - the Enemy. How Peter responds to this moment will have an impact on his future and the future of the Church. In the past, Peter how did Peter handle pressure situations? Each time he failed to overcome the crucible.

6. What question did the Sanhedrin ask Peter? By what power or what name did you do this? Who gave you the authority to teach the people and perform this miracle?

7. Before we hear Peter’s answer, let’s ponder for a moment that the Enemy is present at this trial, what do you think he is whispering in Peter’s ear? Remember …. Not to long ago what was Peter’s response to a similar question? Fresh memories flood into Peter’s brain of his denial of Christ. While Jesus was standing in the exact same spot, Peter was just outside denying he ever knew Jesus. These guys killed Jesus, what makes you think they won’t kill you? Attempted to play on Peter’s guilt and fear.

Read Acts 4:8-12

8. What was Peter’s response? Jesus, whom you rejected and killed, gave us this authority. What qualities does Peter exhibit in giving his response? Boldness, courage. What or who enabled Peter to give such a response? vs. 8 – Holy Spirit.

9. How does the Peter in Acts 4 differ from the Peter in the Gospels who denied Christ?

Point out difference between Peter in courtyard during Christ’s trial (frightened, coward, no self-confidence, no longer sure of himself) and Peter standing in front of the Sanhedrin (bold, courageous, confident - not in self but in God) Difference? Holy Spirit. No longer reliant on self. Totally reliant on the Holy Spirit. No fear of the outcome of the trial - beatings or death.

Read Acts 4:13-22; Acts 5:17-42

APPLICATION

When a crucible moment hits you (loss of a job, marital tension, financial crisis), how will you respond? How will it influence your growth/development as a Christian? How will you respond to a crucible moment? In the flesh (fear/anxiety/anger/depression) or will you allow the Holy Spirit to give you the boldness/courage/wisdom to overcome the flesh and confront the crucible?

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Walking with Peter - The Road to Restoration pt. 2

14. Why did Jesus ask these questions to Peter in the first place? What was his purpose? To irritate Peter? To give Peter a huge guilt trip? NO. Jesus wanted Peter to look into himself and learn for himself that he still loved Jesus - phileo and agapao. Rehabilitate Peter. Peter’s self-confidence is shattered. He’s being eaten alive by guilt. Unsure of his love for Christ. As long as Peter is in that state, he’s no good to Jesus. He will never be able to carry out the responsibilities given to him by Christ. Jesus was forcing Peter to confront his demons so to speak and overcome them. He wanted Peter to get the point where he can say “Jesus, I love you!” and not “Jesus, you know I love you.”

15. After each one of Peter’s responses in verses 15-17, what does Jesus tell Peter? What or who are the lambs? Followers of Christ. Jesus had given Peter the responsibility and the authority to take care of his followers. Why is Jesus telling Peter this? After Jesus had appeared to the disciples for the THIRD time, what were they doing? Fishing. Do you think Jesus was happy about that? He had spent 3 years with the 11 teaching them, discipling them, preparing them to do what? Go back to fishing? No! To go out into the world spreading the gospel.

Jesus is telling Peter, if you love Me, feed My sheep … take care of my followers. That is what I called you to do … to be a shepherd of my flock not a fisherman.

16. Why did Jesus have this conversation only with Peter? Why didn’t He have it with James, John, and the rest of the guys? Peter was the leader. The others followed his lead. He led, they followed. Saw that at the Last Supper and earlier in this chapter.

Read vs. 18-19

17. vs. 18 - What was Jesus telling Peter? Reminding Peter the meaning/truth about discipleship. Read Matthew 16:24-25. How did John interpret Jesus’ words to Peter? According to tradition Peter was crucified upside down. He did not believe himself worthy of dying the same death as his Lord.

18. At the end of verse 19, what did Jesus tell Peter to do? “Follow me!” Fresh start. Forget about the past. Let go of the guilt. Look to the future! You’re still my guy Peter. Follow me.

Read Vs. 20-25

19. How did Peter respond? Asked Jesus, “What about this guy (John)?” Why did he respond in this fashion? Peter feeling really uncomfortable. Attempted to change the subject. Take the focus off him and put it on somebody else. Did it work? What did Jesus say? Don’t concern yourself with him or his fate. Be concerned about yourself. About what I want you to do. Any of you ever been guilty of what Peter attempted to do? Why are you picking on me? Pick on my neighbor, fellow church member, someone more evil than me?

20. Do you think that, at this moment, Peter got what Jesus was telling him? I don’t think so. It doesn’t read as if Peter was receptive to Jesus’ words. What Christ did was start Peter on the road to restoration … kick started the healing process. How? Forced Peter to look at what was holding Peter back. Keeping him from serving Christ. His guilt and shame over what he done in the hours before Christ’s death. In the days leading up to Pentecost, I believe Peter really thought about his relationship with Christ. And at some point, he overcame the shame and the guilt and rediscovered his love for Christ. Afterwards, Peter was different man.

APPLICATION

If Jesus asked you the question, “Do you love me?” what would your response be? Agapao? Phileo? Or neither one? Do you believe you are not capable of such love because of guilt, fear, doubt, or you have a greater love for someone or something else? Know that you have the capacity for agapao love. Don’t allow the Enemy to deceive you otherwise. Agapao love comes from God. He is agapao love. Those who believe in him are able to express such love (I John 4:7). How do you know if you have agapao love? Is your love active or reactive? Do you energetically seek to learn more about God and others? Do you love God and others purposefully or reactively (who they are, their appearance, social standing, etc.)? Is your love for God and others unwavering or emotional? Once you learn that you have the capacity for agapao love, your relationship with God will be flourishing, you’ll have purpose in life, and you will be loving people you did not think you could possibly love.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Walking with Peter - The Road to Restoration pt. 1

Read John 21:1-14

1. What did Peter tell the other disciples he was going to do? Fishing. What did they say? We’ll go with you. Why do you think they did this? Going back to the life they knew before they met Jesus.

2. How did the disciple whom Jesus loved (probably John) know that it was Jesus standing on the shore? Familiar story going back to Jesus and Peter’s 2nd meeting.

3. What did Peter do when he heard it was Jesus? Jumped out of the boat and swam to Jesus. Why did he do this? Excited!

4. Why do you think it is significant that John included in his gospel the exact number of fish they caught? Big event. Watershed event. Remember where you were on 9/11, Kennedy assassination, moon landing. Stuck in his mind for years because what happened that day.

Read John 21:15-17

5. How did Jesus refer to Peter? Simon son of John/Jonas.

6. What question did Jesus ask Peter three times? Do you love me? First question - do you love me more than John, Nathaniel, etc.

7. In verses 15 & 16, what definition of love was Jesus referring to?

agapao - the active love of God for his Son and his people, and the active love His people are to have for God, each other, and enemies.

Define active - dynamic, lively, marked by vigorous activity, energetic. Military terms - active duty. Not in reserve.

Amplified Version - Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these [with reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion, as one loves the Father]?

8. In verses 15 & 16, what was Peter’s response to each question? Yes Lord, you know that I love you.

9. What definition of love was Peter referring to?

phileo - to have affection and regard of a very high order.

Definition of affection - an emotion; fondness

Definition of regard - respect; hold in high esteem; admire

Amplified Version - Yes Lord, you know that I love you [that I have a deep, instinctive, personal affection for you, as for a close friend].

10. How does Jesus’ definition of love differ from Peter’s?

Jesus - Do you love me as you love God? A love based on reasoning = knowledge; intentional = love with a purpose; spiritual devotion = loyalty/commitment on a spiritual level. This love is energetic, lively, at work.

Simon, are you seeking to know me; are you purposely loving me; is your heart and soul sold out to me?

Peter - I love you as a close friend. A love that has depth = strong affection; instinctive = reactionary (responding to environment; not acting on environment); personal affection = fondness, commitment on an emotional level. A love that is respectful; full of admiration. But not a love that spurs one to act, to go out of their away to do something for that person on an everyday basis. To sacrifice for that person.

Peter - I have a deep affection and respect for You based on who You are and what You have done. You’re a good guy, what’s not to like? That is as far as I can go.

11. Why did Peter not respond with the definition of love Jesus was asking him? Hint: All three times, Peter says “Lord, You know that I love you.” Why does Peter phrase his answer that way? Why didn’t he just say “Lord, I love you?” Ex. Wives - “Hubby, do you love me?” Husband - “Sweetie, you know I love you.” Wives, did husband answer your question? He answered it, but not really answered it.

Peter didn’t know if he loved Jesus in the way Jesus defined love - agapao. Why? Recap Peter’s repeated failures during the last days of Christ. (Peter abandoned Jesus at the time of His arrest after he promised never to forsake Christ. He denied Jesus 3 times after telling Jesus he would never deny Him. He said he would follow Jesus to prison and to death. Because of his failures, he was burdened with guilt. Do you understand why Peter could not respond to Jesus’ question with agapao love? He didn’t know for sure if he had that kind of love in him. If Peter had, he would have prayed at Gethsemane, he would not have denied Jesus, he would have gone to trial with Jesus, shared the beatings with Jesus, died on a cross with Jesus.

12. If Jesus had asked this question of Peter at the Last Supper, what answer do you think
Peter would have given? Agapao. Now, in John chapter 21, he can’t. The best Peter could do was phileo. “Based on the time we have spent together, Lord you know I have deep respect/admiration/fondness for you.”

13. In verse 17, Jesus asked Peter a third time “Do you love me?” This time Jesus uses the “phileo” version of love rather than “agapao.” Why? And why did Jesus ask Peter this question after Peter said twice he had “phileo” love for Christ? He’s wanting Peter to answer the question for himself. Jesus wants Peter to take a hard, honest look at himself. To force Peter to look into himself to find the answer for himself “Do I love Jesus, either agapao or phileo?” Jesus - “OK Peter you say you have phileo love for me, well do you?”

What verbal answer did Peter give to Jesus’ question? How did he phrase his answer? “Lord, You know ….” What does that tell you about Peter’s love for Christ from Peter’s perspective? Peter’s not even sure if he has “phileo” love for Christ. Otherwise, he would have said “Jesus, I have deep affection/great respect for you.” Peter was having a difficult time seeing through the guilt to find his love for Christ. Even a person who had phileo love for someone would not have done the awful things he did.

What was Peter’s emotional response to Jesus’ question? Hurt. Sad. Distressed. Very uncomfortable. Why did he respond this way?

a) Hurt that Jesus was questioning his love. OR
b) Peter was not able to answer the question the way he would like to with confidence and assurance. Guilt was eating him from the inside out.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Walking With Peter: The Road to Denial pt. 2

Jesus and disciples go to Mount of Olives. Jesus with Peter, James, and John go to the garden of Gethsemane.

10. Mark 14:32-42 - What did Jesus ask Peter, James and John to do? Watch and pray. Did they do it? No. Of the three, who does Jesus single out for their success or failure? Peter. Why him? Peter had been vocal about his devotion to Christ. Jesus is not seeing it. Peter is suppose to be a leader. The other disciples follow his example. If he prays, they pray. If he sleeps, they sleep. If they sleep and he’s awake praying, Peter is to wake them up and encourage them to pray. Peter is letting Jesus down when He needs Peter the most.

11. John 18:10-11; Matthew 26:52-54 - When Jesus was betrayed, what was Peter’s immediate response? Defended His friend and Master from the mob. What was Jesus’ reaction what Peter did? Disapproval. Peter still didn’t understand that Jesus had to go through all this.

12. Matthew 26:56; Mark 14:50 - When Jesus was arrested by the mob, what did Peter NOT do? Stand by Jesus and say “Arrest me too. If Jesus must go to prison/death, then I Peter must also go to prison/death.” Instead, what did he do? He ran

The Denial

Peter and another disciple, perhaps John, followed Jesus to where He was to be put on trial by the high priest. After midnight. Cold. Peter went to the courtyard to warm himself by a fire.

13. Luke 22:54-55 - What do you think Peter is feeling at this moment? Fear; uncertainty.

14. vs. 56-59 - What were Peter’s responses to the bystanders’ accusations? Repeatedly denied knowing Jesus. Other Gospels say that Peter used expletives to punctuate his denial. Why did he do this? Fear of being caught, placed on trial, and death.

15. vs. 60-62 - When Peter heard the rooster crow, how do you think he felt? When he saw Jesus looking straight at him, how do you think Peter felt? Overwhelming guilt. Jesus perhaps being transferred from the home of the high priest to the Sanhedrin. What did he do next? Fled the courtyard and wept bitterly.

This is the last we see of Peter during the last hours of Christ’s life. He is not at the Sanhedrin. Not before Herod. Not before Pilate. Not being beaten and flogged. Not carrying a cross. Not dying on a cross. The same man who made a point to express his devotion to Jesus … the man who said “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” …Who emphatically said “I will never forsake you” …Was nowhere to be found.

APPLICATION:

1. Do you know yourself the way God knows you? Do you believe the image you or others created of yourself? Or do you accept what God’s image of yourself … how He sees you? We tend to see only our strengths/positives and ignore/discount our weakness/faults. Gets us in trouble. God sees it all and still He loves us. He gives us warnings regarding our weaknesses. Do we heed these warnings?

2. When making a commitment to God, how certain are you that you will follow through with it, particularly during times of testing by the Enemy?
If you fail to follow through with your commitment, how do you respond?

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Walking with Peter: The Road to Denial pt. 1

Read John 13:1-17

Jesus and disciples share their last meal together. Sometime during the meal, Jesus got up, took off his robe, put a towel around his waist, poured water in a basin, and proceeded to wash the disciples’ feet.

1. As Jesus was about to wash Peter’s feet, Peter questioned Him. Why? Peter was astonished; taken aback by what Jesus was doing. The master is not to perform menial tasks for the servant.

Jesus explained to Peter that he does not understand what He is doing now, but Peter will in the future.

2. vs. 7-9 - How would you characterize Peter’s responses to Jesus? What does his responses say about Peter? Two interpretations - a) expression of unworthiness (similar to the second meeting between Jesus and Peter when told Jesus to go away from him for he was a sinful man); show of loyal devotion. b) hint of pride/arrogance - Dictating to Jesus. Telling Jesus what He could and could not do. Hearkens back to Peter’s rebuke of Jesus. “This will never happen to you!”

Perhaps a mixture of both. What you do hear from Peter’s lips is a desire to be totally one with Christ. Peter’s words were heard by Jesus and the other disciples.

Reason why Jesus washed the disciples feet – Teach them humility. To be a leader you must be willing to serve others no matter how trivial/menial it may seem.

The footwashing lesson was perhaps prompted by a dispute among the disciples that occurred during Jesus’ last meal with them. (Luke 22:24-30). The twelve argued among themselves over whom would be the greatest when Jesus established His kingdom … who will be Jesus’ number one guy in the kingdom. After explaining and showing the disciples what it means to be the greatest, Jesus shares something with Peter.

Read - Luke 22:31-34

3. vs. 31 Read Amplified, NASB, & NIV - What did Jesus say to Peter? The “you” in this verse is plural. Sift – to shake in a sieve - an instrument with a meshed or perforated bottom, used for separating coarse matter from fine parts of loose matter. Example Jesus used – separating coarse/hard grain from fine grain. What imagery comes to your mind? What did Satan want to do? Separate Peter and the other disciples from Jesus.

To whom do you think Satan was making these demands? God the Father. Why? He wanted to make it harder for Jesus to follow through with the Plan. Similar to Job’s story. “God, if you take this from Job, this from Job, this from Job, … he’ll curse you to your face.” Perhaps same with Jesus. “God, if you let me remove Jesus’ closest companions, I’ll bet then He won’t obey you.”

4. vs. 32 - What did Jesus say He was doing? The “you” in this verse is singular referring to Peter. Jesus is praying for Peter that his faith would not fail, that it would not die. Faith in what? Peter’s faith in Jesus. That no matter what Peter would see and hear Jesus experience in the coming hours. No matter what Peter himself would experience in the coming hours, Jesus prayed that Peter’s faith in Him as the Messiah, the Son of God and faith in himself would not completely vanish.

What did He say would happen to Peter? Turn back from what? At some point, Peter would fall away. He would fail in keeping his commitments to Jesus. The Enemy will jump all over him. Despite all that Peter, as we’ll see later, will not lose faith in Jesus or himself. Peter will have doubts about himself. Am I still worthy of Christ? Am I really a rock? But, Peter will never completely lose faith in Jesus or himself. (Unlike Judas, who after betraying Jesus, regretted his decision. Rather than seek God’s forgiveness and forgiving himself, Judas gave in to his despair, lost all faith in himself to be redeemed, and chose to take his own life.) At some point, Peter would get back on track. What did He want Peter to do afterwards? Strengthen/renew the faith of his fellow disciples.

5. Why did Jesus share all this with Peter? Giving Peter warning, encouragement, and instructions. Why not James, John, or Andrew? Peter was his man to lead the church. Peter’s responsibility to lead and look after the brothers. Did Jesus believe his prayer would be answered? Absolutely! Jesus says “when you turn back”, not “if”.

6. vs. 33 - What was Peter’s reply? Do you think Peter meant what he said? Yes.

7. How would you characterize Peter’s response? Why did he respond this way? Jesus seemed to be questioning Peter’s loyalty/devotion to Him. There would be no need for him to “turn back” because Peter would never turn away from Jesus. Peter - “I know me better than you know me, Jesus!”

8. vs. 34- What did Jesus say Peter would do? Why do you think Jesus tells Peter this? Perhaps to show Peter the real Simon Peter. Peter had this image of himself. Believes himself to be fiercely devoted to Christ. Very vocal about it. But when the time comes to act, will he stand strong or fold under the pressure? What did Peter believe? Jesus knew the true Peter. When the pressure is on, Peter will crack. Ex. Walking on water incident. Do you think Peter was the type of person you could sit down and explain/share things about himself to? He couldn’t explain it to Peter because he was too thick-headed. Peter had to learn the truth about himself the hardway. Peter had to look at himself in the mirror, see his faults/weaknesses. A lesson that he would never, ever forget. This lesson would further mold Peter into the rock Jesus knew him to be.

9. Mark 14:31 - What was Peter’s response? Read NIV, NASB, Amplified. Peter repeatedly told Jesus in a determined voice that he would never deny Jesus. The disciples? Followed Peter’s example. Did Peter and the disciples mean what they said? Absolutely yes!

Friday, August 14, 2009

Walking with Peter: From Rock to Stumbling Block

Read Matthew 16:21-23

1. Read vs. 21. A) What did Jesus tell His disciples?

Jesus lays it all out. What He would be experiencing in the next few weeks. Didn’t hold anything back. How He would suffer at the hands of the Jewish religious leaders. He would be ridiculed, cursed, beaten, spat upon. He would be handed over to the Romans, put on trial, flogged, beaten, ridiculed at the hands of Gentiles. Rejected by the Jews. Crucified. Die on the cross. On the third day, He would rise again.

B) Why did He share this information with them? They were his friends. His closest companions. Jesus wanted them to be in the loop. Not surprised by what will happen in the days ahead.

2. What do you think was going through the disciples’ minds as Jesus was telling them all this, particularly Peter based on what he did in vs. 22?

Shock! Peter - shock then anger. As Jesus was sharing what He would be experiencing, I can picture Peter getting more and more upset. His blood pressure reaching the boiling point. After Jesus finished, Peter took Jesus aside and confronted Him. He rebuked Jesus. Image - Peter, a human, a created being confronting/rebuking God, his Creator.

3. Define rebuke. Webster - to criticize sharply; an expression of strong disapproval; reprimand.

4. Why did Peter respond in this way? What was he critical of? What did Jesus say that Peter strongly disapproved? What Jesus said was not the plan. The Messiah is not suppose to suffer and die. He isn’t suppose to lose. Jesus seemed to have a defeatist attitude. Hurting the morale of disciples. We gave up our jobs, our families for this?

5. What qualities do you see in Peter in the way he approached Jesus? Assertiveness, boldness, temper, anger, impulsiveness. Do you think Peter heard the end of Jesus’ words to the disciples about being raised on the third day?

6. Vs. 23. What was Jesus’ response to Peter’s rebuke? “Thank you for straightening me out Peter. I had no idea what I was saying.” No. Jesus turned and looked Peter straight in the eye and said. “Get behind me Satan.” What do you think Peter’s reaction was to Jesus words? I can picture Peter jumping back and looking around him to see if the devil was there. But Jesus was looking at Peter when He said those words, why? Why did Jesus say “Satan” instead of “Peter”? Jesus recognized the words of the Adversary in Peter’s rebuke. Peter was not Jesus’ enemy. Satan was. When Jesus looked at Peter, He saw Peter in the flesh. He also saw in the spiritual realm, Satan.

7. How was Satan able to get a hold on Peter? Satan took advantage of Peter’s anger in order to tempt Jesus. Peter was unable to control his anger. That allowed the Adversary the opening he was looking for. The opportune time to strike. He got a foothold into Peter’s heart. Ephesians 4:26-27. As Jesus was sharing with the disciples about suffering and dying, Peter was getting upset/angry. The Enemy swooped in and whispered to Peter “You called Him the Messiah, the Son of God? Is what He saying to you sound like a Messiah? Is what Jesus telling you sound like what the Messiah was to come here and do? Look at the faces of your friends. See how demoralized they are. Say something to Jesus. Talk Him out of this. He doesn’t have to go through all that suffering and death.”

Just as Satan used the serpent in the Garden of Eden to tempt Eve, he used Peter in an effort to tempt Jesus. What was his goal? To prevent Jesus from going to the cross. If Jesus made it to the cross and died, game over for Satan. His scheme didn’t work. Jesus knew it was Satan behind Peter’s words. Jesus told the Enemy to get lost.

Point - Who is your enemy? The friend who stabbed you in the back? Are Muslims our enemy? Is your spouse? Have an argument over something serious or something silly? In the heat of anger, say things that are harsh, unkind. Is he or she your enemy? No. Your true enemy is the one who takes advantage of the anger, bitterness, frustration, etc., in an effort to promote division, chaos, havoc. Goal - disrupt our relationship with one another and with God. Ephesians chapter 6 - Our struggle is not against flesh and blood. It is with the dark forces of this world led by Satan. They are our true enemy. Not Muslims, not people who mistreat us, not our spouses.

8. a) What did Jesus tell Satan? “You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind (Greek “phronea” - understanding) the things of God, but the things of men!”

b) Were these words directed at Peter as well?

c) When Peter rebuked Jesus, did he have in mind/understand the things of God or the things of men? What was God’s understanding of who the Messiah was? What would he do and how would he do it? Bring salvation through suffering and death. Excruciating pain/suffering/death. What was Peter’s understanding of who the Messiah was, what he would do, and how he would do it? Restore Israel to glory through political/military means. He would inflict pain/suffering/death on others.

Satan, who was right there, saw in Peter’s rebuke (his anger/his words) an opportune time to tempt Jesus.

9) How did Satan use Peter’s understanding of the Messiah create a stumbling block for Jesus? Define stumbling block - Greek word “skandalon” - a) trap, snare b) impediment placed in the way & causing one to stumble or fall. What was the snare laid by Satan? Temptation - turn away from the road leading to the cross. No pain, no suffering, no death. What or who was the impediment/obstacle? Satan & Peter. The Enemy used one of Jesus’ closest companions in an effort to get him to stumble and fall. Jesus was able to overcome the temptation, but it wasn’t easy. How quickly did Jesus respond to Satan’s temptation? Immediately. He did not dwell on the temptation. The longer you do, the easier you will fall prey to the temptation.

10) Peter allowed himself to be a stumbling block to Jesus. In what ways can we be a stumbling block to others? See Romans 14:1-23. Origin - self-interest. Have in mind the things of men, i.e., what we believe, what we want, what we desire.

Disciples Study Bible - “Christians need to know that behavior can have destructive consequences on fellow believers. Further, we should accept other Christians without passing judgment upon the centralities of their faith. We can still love one another even while disagreeing so as not to give Satan a foothold through division.

11) How does the Peter in Matt. 16:13-20 contrast with the Peter of Matt.16:21-23?

Matt. 16:13-20 - Peter said something good and was blessed by Jesus.
Matt.16:21-23 - Peter said something wrong and was rebuked by Jesus.

What happened? In Matt. 16: 13-20, Peter had in mind the things of God. He allowed God to reveal to him the answer to Jesus’ question. In Matt.16:21-23, Peter had in mind the things of men. He allowed Satan to use him as a stumbling block to Jesus.

12) In vs. 24-25, what was the point Jesus was making to Peter and the other disciples? Jesus had told the disciples the path He’s taking leads to death. Peter said “No it doesn’t.” In rebuking Peter, Jesus said yes it does. Not only for me, but for those who are my true followers. Those who follow Jesus must deny there self-interests, pick up a cross, and follow Jesus where? To death. That’s hard stuff.

APPLICATION:

1. Our enemy is not flesh & blood. The enemy is the demonic forces in the spiritual realm led by Satan.

2. Be careful not to be a stumbling block to others. Do not allow the Enemy to get a foothold in your life in order to snare others to sin or to be an obstacle that hinders the spiritual walk of fellow believers.

3. Do you have in mind (an understanding) the things of man or the things of God? In order to understand the things of God:

a) Make God’s will a priority, not your will.
b) Read the Word.
c) Seek understanding of the Word.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Walking with Peter: Who do you say I am?

Read Matthew 16:13-20

Jesus and his disciples maybe are sitting around the campfire or walking along the road to Caesarea Philippi. Talking about this, that, and the other. Jesus asks the guys a question. “Who do people say I am?”

1. Who did people living in Jesus’ day say He was?

Andrew - “Some say you are Elijah.” Matthew - “Some say you are Jeremiah.” Bartholomew - “Some say you are John the Baptist.” James - “Other say you are a prophet.” Not to mention what the Pharisees called Jesus - drunkard, glutton, follower of Beelzebub, and probably worse. People of Jesus’ day had a lot of opinions on who He was.

2. Who do people today say Jesus is? Good man who said and did a lot of good things. A great religious leader like Gandhi, Buddha, Mohammed.

Jesus turns the question on to his disciples. “What about you guys? Who do you say I am?”

3. Who answered Jesus’ question? Peter. What was his answer? You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God. How long do you think it took for him to respond? Instantly. What insight do you get into the disciple’s character based on his response? Boldness, assertiveness.

Peter acknowledged two things about Jesus.

1) Jesus was the Messiah - the Anointed One of God. The One promised by the prophets who would restore the glory of Israel.

2) Jesus was the Son of God - He acknowledged the divine nature of Jesus … the unique bond Jesus and God shared. Jesus was of God.

4. How did the disciple reach this conclusion? Did he reach this conclusion on his own? Did Andrew whisper the answer to him in his ear?

Revealed to Peter by God the Father. How did God reveal this knowledge to Peter? Thunderous voice from heaven? Handwriting on the wall? No. By walking with Jesus. Spending time with Him. Hearing His words. Meditating on His words. Seeing Jesus in action. All the while, God the Father revealed truth to Peter concerning Jesus. Opened Peter’s eyes to the truth. Point out something – Although Peter answered quickly, his revelation was not instantaneous/out of the blue. The truth about Jesus was revealed to Peter over time through experience.

5. Who do you say Jesus is? Who is He to you? Savior, Lord, Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counsellor, Immanuel, the Good Shepherd, etc.

6. a) How did you come to this conclusion? Through reason? Words of people? By the Spirit of God. Through a consistent walk with God, He reveals even more of Jesus to you.

b) Can a person reach the conclusion that Jesus is ________ or confess that Jesus is ______ without a revelation from God? See I Corinthians 12:3

Can I, Greg Crawford, convince an unbeliever that Jesus is Lord/Son of God on my own? No. What I can do is plant the seed. I can share the Gospel with someone. Explain to that person who Jesus is. Holy Spirit takes over from there. He reveals the Truth to that person. It’s up to the person to listen to the Holy Spirit’s revelation. When they believe what they’re hearing, they will be able to confess that Jesus is Lord/Son of God. By continuing to walk with God, the Holy Spirit reveals more about who Jesus is.

Jesus commends Peter for his confession. Goes on to say … read vs. 18-19.

7) What is Jesus saying to Peter in vs. 18-19?

My thoughts on these verses - To me, this is a symbolic passing of the torch. Or, in Biblical terms, it’s like Elijah giving his mantle to Elisha. As we’re going to see in vs. 21, Jesus is not long for this world. He’s leaving soon. Jesus needs someone to give the keys of leadership to before he goes … a shepherd to lead the sheep. From the first time Jesus met Peter, He had tapped Peter to be the one who would lead His Church. If you recall their first meeting, that’s when Jesus gave Simon the name Peter. Never really explained to Simon why. Here Jesus does so. “Simon, you are Peter/the Rock and upon this Rock, I will build my church and the gates of Hades (death and the forces of evil) will not/shall not prevail against it. Think about that imagery for a moment. What comes to mind?

Giving the keys - Again, it symbolizes the passing of the torch. After Jesus leaves this world, Peter would be the leader/shepherd of His church.

8) What are the keys to heaven? Prayer. Prayer unlocks the door to heaven and locks the door. Example - Elijah - I Kings 17:1. Tells King Ahab there will be no dew nor rain for the next few years except at my word” No rain for 3 ½ years. Mt. Carmel - prayed fire from heaven. Afterwards prayed for rain. Another example - During a battle, Joshua prayed that God would stop the sun and moon. Prayer is powerful.

9) Was the authority to bind and loose given only to Peter? Read Matthew 18:15-20.

The “you” in these verses is plural. Refers to the Church. From what I gather, the Church as a body has the authority to bind and loose. For more on this, see the addendum below.

APPLICATION

1) Ask yourself “Who is Jesus to me?” Write out your answers.
2) Seek to find out more about who Jesus is. He is your Savior and so much more. Look up Scriptures that deal with Jesus as Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counsellour, the Good Shepherd, Healer of broken hearts, etc.
3) Pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal more of Jesus to you this week.
4) When witnessing, you are not going to convince an unbeliever that Jesus is Lord. That is the Holy Spirit’s job. Your job is to plant the seed and water it. Let the Spirit bring forth the fruit.
5) Prayer is a powerful, powerful tool that is very much underused. Don’t let prayer be that tool that just sits on a shelf. Put it to use. I recommend reading Jim Cymbala’s book Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire.

Addendum

The authority of the Pope, the supreme leader of the Roman Catholic Church, is found in Matthew 13:18-19. The Roman Catholic church teaches that Jesus gave to Peter and Peter alone the keys to the kingdom of Heaven. Consequently, only Peter and not any of the other disciples were given the authority to bind and loose things on earth and in Heaven. According to Roman Catholic tradition, Peter was the first bishop of Rome. The bishop of Rome over the centuries became known as the pope, the leader of the Church in western Europe. When Peter died, the keys and the authority that came with them were passed down to the next bishop of Rome/pope and when he died they were passed to his successor and so on and so forth up until today. According to Roman Catholic tradition, if someone wants to make a request to God, they must first go through the pope/Roman Catholic Church, because the pope has the keys to the kingdom of Heaven.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Walking with Peter: Faith and Doubt pt. 1

II Corinthians 5:7 - for we walk by faith, not by sight. What does that mean?

Define faith - (Hebrews 11: 1) the assurance (literal translation of the word assurance is “substance”) of things hoped for; the evidence/certainty/conviction of things not seen. Paraphrase - Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Define doubt - NOT being sure of what we hope for and Uncertain of what we do not see.

Example of difference between the two - Kid stuck in a tree. Father is below telling kid to jump, I’ll catch you. Father tells kid to close his eyes and jump.Read Matt. 14:22-33. Explain what’s going on.

Jesus had finished teaching the crowds. He sent the disciples on ahead to Bethsaida by boat while He sent the people on their way home. That evening Jesus decided to spend some quality time with the Father. He went by himself to a mountain to pray. Meanwhile, the disciples are on the Sea of Galilee. They’re having a hard time of it. The wind is blowing real hard kicking up huge waves. The boat is being tossed around like a ping pong ball. And it’s pitch black dark. After midnight. Sometime between 3 AM and 6AM one of the disciples sees something out on the water. He’s like “Nah, it can’t be anything.” This something is coming closer. Other disciples see what looks to be a person. But it can’t be, a person can’t walk on water. Therefore, it must be what? A g-g-g-g-ghost! The disciples proceed to freak out. Screaming at the top of their lungs. Quickly they heard a voice from the “ghost” cry out, “Be brave! It’s me, don’t be afraid!”

1. Why do you think Jesus was walking on the water? Did he need to stretch his legs after praying most of the night? He probably wants to help his boys out. May have saw them from the mtn. Having a hard time getting across the sea. Wanted to give them comfort. Help them to get through the storm. Or test their faith.

2. Why didn’t Jesus identify Himself to the disciples? Instead of saying “it is I,” why didn’t He say “it is I, Jesus!”? Test of faith. See Mark 6:52 Insight about what? Faith in Jesus to handle any situation no matter how dire the circumstance. However, there was one disciple who seemed up to the challenge.

3. vs. 28. Which disciple spoke up? Peter. What did the disciple say? Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water. What was Jesus’ response? Come on

4. vs. 29 What does Peter do? Steps out of the boat. One foot at a time, he started walking towards Jesus. Give Peter his props. With waves still crashing against the boat and wind howling, Peter stepped out. The other 11 were still freaking out. Why do you think he did this? What insight do you get into Peter’s character/himself? Courage, willingness to take risks. Characteristics Jesus saw in Peter that made him the Rock. Characteristics Peter didn’t know he had in himself. Jesus was bringing them to the forefront here on a stormy sea.

4. How does Peter illustrate the definition of faith?

What was Peter’s hope? The voice crying out to him was Jesus. Was he sure of that hope? Did his hope have substance? Did he have assurance? Yes. His hope was that the person telling Him to come was his Master and not a ghost. Otherwise he would never gotten out of the boat in the middle of a storm. Was Peter able to clearly see Jesus? No. It was pitch black dark. All he had to go on was a voice. Despite that, Peter was certain of what he did not see.

What do you think the other guys in the boat were saying to Peter as he was about to step out onto the stormy waves? Probably trying to pull him back into the boat. “Are you
nuts? You can’t walk on water! You’re going to drown. Look at those waves! Even if you could, that’s not the Master! It’s an evil spirit, a demon. He’s going to kill you!” The other guys, his own brother Andrew, are doing everything they can to keep Peter in the boat. They thought the safest place to be was in a boat being tossed around by waves and wind, not with Jesus. (Place you think is safe may not be.) What does Peter do? Gets out of the boat and starts walking towards Jesus. Is the storm still blowing? Yes. No “peace be still” moment. Peter’s focus is on making it to Jesus. Storm not an issue. As a consequence Peter found himself walking on water.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

We live in a chaotic world. Days of uncertainties. They instill terror, fear, worry, anxiety in our hearts. We can be like a boat on stormy waves being battered. In the midst of this chaos and uncertainties, you here a still small voice say “Be brave. It’s me, don’t be afraid! Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Come to where I am.” What is your response? With whom do you identify? The eleven who stayed in a boat that was being tossed around by the waves? Or with Peter who got out of the boat and walked into the teeth of the storm to get to where Jesus was?

Let’s say your like Peter. The voice you hear is the unmistakable voice of Jesus. In order to get to him, you have to get out of the boat and walk through the chaos and uncertainties of life and all the fear, worry, and anxiety it creates. You have to shut out the cries of other people in the boat (family, friends, co-workers) telling you to stay in the boat. Going to Jesus is too risky, is crazy, is insane, is foolish, is irresponsible, etc. What does it take to get out of the boat? FAITH. Nothing or no one is going to keep you from walking to Jesus. You get out of the boat and start walking to where you heard the voice of Jesus - one step at a time. The chaos and uncertainties of this world are still blowing, but they are not an issue. You are completely focused on Jesus. As a consequence, you find yourself, like Peter, walking on water.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Walking With Peter: Second Encounter

1. a) If Jesus was standing in front of you and looked at you, what would He see?

Physical appearance? Greg Crawford - 30 lbs. overweight, receding hairline, arthritic knees, can’t run more than a minute without gasping for breath? Jesus - Nope! Can’t use you.
Bank account? Archivist. Middle class professional job. Jesus - Can’t use you. Don’t make enough coin.
Your faults/weaknesses? Greg, you got issues. You’re introverted. Lead a dull, boring life. Can’t use you.
Your heart? Sees a heart passionate for Him. Totally in love with Him. Desire to have an on-going relationship with Him. Also sees potential. Sees that Greg has unique qualities/gifts/talents to serve. Qualities/gifts/talents that He created in me and in you so that we can serve Him in our unique way. Jesus - I can use you!

b) Do you see in yourself what He sees? Or are all you see are the first three?

Personal testimony - A while back, God looked deep into my heart. Saw potential in me to be a servant of His. He saw that I had the knowledge/gift/skill to be a teacher. I was like, Whoa!, wait a minute. At the time, I was a major introvert. Didn’t like crowds. Didn’t go out of my way to talk to people. I sure didn’t like standing in front of people where everybody’s eyes were on me. When I did, I’d get these tics. It took some convincing by the Holy Spirit and peer pressure, but I gave in. Taught Sunday School class. It was great!. No nervousness. No tics. It was if as I had been doing it for years. God taught me something about the areas of my life that I considered to be weaknesses/faults (my personality). Where I am weak, He makes me strong. Point out Apostle Paul. In Corinthians 12, Paul refers to a thorn in His that he perceived to be a weakness. It made life difficult and Paul wanted God to remove it. God refused to remove the thorn/weakness. Why? What kind of person would we be if we had no weaknesses? Prideful, arrogant, egotistical. We would no longer need God. God’s response to Paul. II Corinth. 12:9 - My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Another way of saying it - Don’t worry about your weakness, I got your slack! I’m still somewhat introverted. I’m still not crazy about standing up in front of people and talking. It’s still a weakness. But when the opportunity arises for me to speak God’s Word … God’s strength takes over my weakness. Like spinach to Popeye. Anyone with a similar testimony?

Read I Corinthians 1:25-31. Who did Jesus call to be his disciples? The most educated men of the age? Wealthiest? The mightiest? Who did He choose to be the first leader of His Church? Peter - an uneducated, smelly, muddy fisherman who had a quick temper and a quick tongue. Peter had weaknesses. Jesus knew they were there. Now if Peter would only trust Jesus, he could overcome those weaknesses and be the Rock Christ saw him to be. But first, Peter had to follow Jesus. After their first encounter, I don’t think Peter is convinced enough to be a follower of Jesus. I don’t think he was convinced that Jesus was the Messiah or that he himself was a “rock.” Peter went back to fishing. Turn to Luke and you’ll see.

Read Luke 5:1-11

2. Jesus was preaching the Word of God to the people along the lake of Gennaseret. He saw two boats and fishermen cleaning their nets. Jesus stepped into one of the boats. Whose boat did he get into? Simon’s. Coincidence? Evidence of Jesus’ persistence. Doesn’t take no for answer very easily. Ask Moses, Gideon, Jeremiah, Jonah.

Simon heard Jesus’ teaching probably for the first time. He heard Jesus teach the Gospel – repentance from sins and what the kingdom of heaven was really like.

3. After speaking to the people from Simon’s boat, what did Jesus tell Simon to do? Go out to deep water, put out your nets, and catch some fish. What was Simon’s response? We’ve been trying all night and haven’t caught a single fish, but because you say so we’ll try one more time. How would you characterize His response? What happened next? Simon caught so many fish it took two boats to bring them in. The weight of the fish began to sink the boats.

4. Verse 8. What did Simon say to Jesus? Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man

Why did he say this? Expressed respect for Jesus. He acknowledged Jesus has his superior/master. Simon also acknowledged that there was something special about Jesus. Something different. Something he may/may not have picked up on the first time they met but now was confirmed to be true. It took a miracle to convince Simon that Jesus was more than your average man.

How did Simon see himself? He saw his weakness. He was not a rock. He was a dirty, rotten sinner not fit to be in the same universe as Jesus. Simon pleaded with Jesus to leave because He should have nothing to do with someone as despicable as him. Was what Simon said about himself true? Yes. In acknowledging that he was a sinner, Simon had taken his first step in starting a relationship with Christ/becoming a follower of Christ.

5. What was Jesus’ response to Simon’s words? You’re right Simon. You are a filthy, degenerate sinner. You are not good enough/holy enough to be one of my followers. And walked away. No … Jesus picked Simon up, looked him in the eye and said “Don’t be afraid …” Jesus gave Simon assurance. I’m not going to strike you down. He also gave Simon a new purpose in life

How did Jesus see Simon? Jesus looked beyond Simon’s faults/weaknesses, looked into his heart, and saw a fisher of men - “from now on you will catch men.”

What did Simon do next? Dropped his nets along with James and John, left everything, and followed Jesus. What does everything mean? They left their jobs and families. See Mark 1:19-20.

Application:
1) Do not allow what you perceive to be weaknesses/shortcomings to become obstacles in you serving God. Pray that God will replace your weaknesses/shortcomings with His strength.
2) Know that God does not judge us on the basis of our appearance, personality, wealth, talents, skills, etc. He looks at the heart. Ex. Lottie Moon – weaknesses single, female, full height of 4 feet 3 inches, racism. She became the patron saint of Southern Baptist missions. What does He see when He look in your heart? Do you see what He sees?
3) If you do not know who Jesus REALLY is, do so now. Pray, study the Scriptures, talk to someone who does know Him. Like Peter, you will be amazed and humbled at what you discover about Jesus … and about yourself - both good and bad. When Peter first met Jesus, he didn’t know for certain who Jesus REALLY was. During their second encounter, Peter got a good idea who Jesus really was. Over the next three years, as Peter developed a relationship with Jesus, he learned more about Christ … and about himself - both good and bad.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Walking with Peter: First Encounter

A. Introduction: Story of Gideon (Judges 6:1-16); Story of David (I Samuel 16:1-13)

1. What is the common thread in these two scriptures? How we perceive ourselves or others is different than the way God does. We tend to focus on the external to in judging others or ourselves. God focuses on the internal. Reread I Samuel 16:7. Other examples: Moses (Exodus chapters 3 and 4) and Jeremiah (chapter 1)

B. Background - John 1:35-39 - Point out that the following is a more detailed account of the calling of Jesus’ first disciples. Events that transpired before the brief “they left their nets to follow Jesus” accounts seen in Matthew and Mark. John and Luke give a more detailed account.

Summary of what’s going on. John the Baptist is hanging out with two of his disciples (Andrew and probably John). Jesus walks by. John the Baptist tells them “The guy I’ve been telling you about? The Lamb of God? The Messiah? There He is.” The two leave John the Baptist to follow Jesus. The two keep their distance behind Jesus. He turns around and sees them following Him and asks them “What do you looking for?” Good question! There’s sermon in that question! What do you seek from Jesus? What are you looking for? Andrew and John probably very nervous and tongue tied spit out - “Where are you staying?” Jesus smiled and said “Come and see.” The two spend the rest of the day with Jesus.

2. What do you suppose Jesus and the two followers of John the Baptist talked about? If you could spend a couple of hours talking face to face with Jesus what would you talk about? What would you ask Him? One question I would ask Him would be, what was it like being human?

C. More Background - Read verses 40-42

Andrew goes looking for his brother. Where do you think he found him? Cleaning fish, repairing his boat, mending his nets, etc. Andrew tells Simon “We’ve found Him! We’ve found Him!” Simon - “Found who?” Andrew - “The Messiah!”

3. What do you suppose Simon’s response was to Andrew’s discovery? My thoughts - Simon said “Yeah right! You’ve been hanging around that crazy John the Baptist fella too long! Andrew - “Come see for yourself” Andrew brought Simon to Jesus.

D. First encounter - The first meeting of Jesus and Simon. This is a big deal moment.

4. When Simon looked at Jesus for the first time, what did he see? A Messiah? On the outside what did Jesus look like? Average guy. No different than any other guy from Nazareth. What did a Messiah suppose to look like? You think Simon was convinced by what he saw that Jesus was the Messiah? I don’t. I don’t think Simon was impressed by what he saw of Jesus.

John, the author of this gospel, makes a point to write that when Andrew brought Simon to Jesus, “Jesus looked at him.”

5. When Jesus looked at Simon, what did He see? A muddy dude smelling of fish? Answer is found in what Jesus said to Simon. Read rest of verse 42. Cephas - Aramaic for rock/stone. Peter - Greek for rock/stone.

6. Why did Jesus name Simon, “Rock”? Simon probably wondered the same thing. What characteristics do you associate with the word “rock”? Strong-willed, unshakable, obstinate, won’t back down.

Jesus looked at Simon, much like God looked at Gideon, David, Moses, and Jeremiah. He looked beyond the exterior. Beyond mud and smell of fish. Jesus looked deep into the heart and soul of Simon. What did He see? He saw a man with a lot of faults (quick temper, impulsive nature, quick tongued, and numerous more negatives.) Jesus didn’t stop there. He looked deeper. And there He saw potential. He saw boldness, steadfastness, determination, strength, all the qualities necessary for Simon to be the leader of His church. What Jesus saw when He first met Simon was not Simon the fisherman but Peter the Rock on whom His Church would be built and the gates of Hell would NOT prevail against him.

7. At this moment in time, did Simon see in himself what Jesus saw? No.

Question to ponder this week - If Jesus was standing in front of you and looked at you, what would He see? Do you see in yourself what He sees?

Overview of the Gospels (cont'd)

IV. John

Author – John was a disciple of Jesus. He, along with his brother James and Peter, were closest to Jesus. They were present for all his teachings and every miracle.
When – Written about 80 A.D.
Outline:
-Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and calling of first disciples (chapter 1)
-Ministry of Jesus (chapters 2-17)
-Death and Resurrection (chapters 18-21)

Key verse: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John3:16-17)

Interesting facts – John was written differently from the other Gospels. John took a more thematic than biographical approach in writing his gospel. Read John chapter 1. Theme of John’s Gospel – eternal salvation comes through Jesus alone. Examples – Nicodemus (John chapter 3), the Samaritan woman (John chapter 4), the blind man (John chapter 9.)

In John, Jesus says the following:

John 6:35 - Then Jesus declared, I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

John 8:12 - When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

John 10:7, 9 - Therefore Jesus said again, I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep … I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture.

John 10:11 - I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

John 11:25 - Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.

John 14:6 - Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 15:5 - I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

The words “I am” should sound familiar. They echo what God said to Moses in the book of Exodus when Moses asked God what he should say to the people with they ask Moses who sent him.

Moses said to God, Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they ask me, What is his name? Then what shall I tell them? God said to Moses, I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you. (Exodus 3:13-14)

God then told Moses to tell the people that He will save them from slavery and that He would do so through His servant Moses. A millennia later, God sent Jesus to earth to tell the people that He will save them from slavery to sin and death and that He would do so through His Son Jesus.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Overview of the Gospels

Why were the Gospels written? Looking at when they were written, many of the first generation Christians who had seen Jesus and the apostles were disappearing. A second generation that had never witnessed Jesus and the apostles was emerging. The Gospels were written for them and future generations of believers so that they would know and remember Jesus and the beginnings of Christianity.

I. Matthew

Author – Matthew was a disciple of Jesus. He was a tax collector before becoming a disciple. He was also called Levi.
When – Written sometime between 60 and 80 A.D.
Outline:
-Birth and Early Life (chapters 1-4)
-Ministry of Jesus (chapters 5-20)
-Death and Resurrection (chapters 21-28)

Key verse: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:19-20)

Interesting facts – Matthew quotes Old Testament Scripture more than the other Gospels. What does that tell you as far as whom his Gospel was directed at? The Jews. Matthew was providing them with evidence that Jesus was the Messiah prophesied by the writers of the Old Testament. It’s perhaps why Matthew was made the first Gospel. It bridges the Old Testament with the New Testament.

II. Mark

Author – John Mark. The home of Mark’s mother served as a church where the first Christian’s gathered (Acts chapter 12.) His cousin Barnabas was a Christian missionary. As a young man, Mark went on missionary trips with Barnabas and the second pillar of the early Christian movement Paul. Mark was the source of a strong disagreement between Barnabas and Paul (Read Acts 15:36-41.) Mark matured from this bad experience to become a leader in the early Church. At the end of his life, Paul praised Mark for being helpful to him in his ministry (II Timothy 4:11.) Peter refers to Mark as “my son” (I Peter 5:13). Tradition holds that Peter was Mark’s primary source in writing his gospel.
When – Written about 60 A.D. Mark is the oldest of the four Gospels.
Outline:
-Baptism of Jesus and calling of the Twelve Disciples (chapter 1:1-20)
-Ministry of Jesus (chapter 1:21-chapter 10)
-Death and Resurrection (chapters 11-16)

Key verse: The most important one (commandment), answered Jesus, is this: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:29-31)

Interesting facts – Mark is the smallest of the four Gospels. Scholars believe Matthew and Luke used Mark as a source for their Gospels.

III. Luke

Author – Luke was a Greek which means he was a Gentile. He played an active role in the growth of Christianity. He was with Paul on many of his missionary journeys. In Colossians 4:14, Paul refers to Luke as a doctor which means he was well educated. Luke’s educational background produced a well organized and detailed account of the life of Jesus. It includes all of the major events and teachings of Jesus, plus a few not found in other Gospels. Examples – Birth of John the Baptist and the boy Jesus in the Temple teaching the teachers.
When – Written about 70 A.D.
Outline:
-Birth and Early Life (chapters 1-4)
-Ministry of Jesus (chapters 5-19)
-Death and Resurrection (chapters 20-24)

Key verse: Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. (Luke 9:23-24)

Interesting facts – Luke wrote his Gospel not to a group of people but to an individual named Theophilus. Read Luke 1:1-4. He is also the author of the Book of Acts.