THE BIG TEN

Genesis 2:15-3:24
2:15. The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17. but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die." 18. The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." 19. Now the LORD God had formed out of the ground all the beasts of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. 20. So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds of the air and all the beasts of the field. But for Adam no suitable helper was found. 21. So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man's ribs and closed up the place with flesh. 22. Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. 23. The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called `woman, ' for she was taken out of man." 24. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame. 1. Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, `You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" 2. The woman said to the serpent, "We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3. but God did say, `You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.'" 4. "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. 5. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." 6. When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. 8. Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. 9. But the LORD God called to the man, "Where are you?" 10. He answered, "I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid." 11. And he said, "Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?" 12. The man said, "The woman you put here with me--she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it." 13. Then the LORD God said to the woman, "What is this you have done?" The

Chapter 1

woman said, "The serpent deceived me, and I ate." 14. So the LORD God said to the serpent, "Because you have done this, "Cursed are you above all the livestock and all the wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and you will eat dust all the days of your life. 15. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel." 16. To the woman he said, "I will greatly increase your pains in childbearing; with pain you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you." 17. To Adam he said, "Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, `You must not eat of it,' "Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. 18. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. 19. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return." 20. Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living. 21. The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. 22. And the LORD God said, "The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever." 23. So the LORD God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. 24. After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.

Read Genesis 2:15-3:24, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.

1. Where was the man made?

2. From what was the man made?

3. For what purpose was the man made?

4. Where was the woman made?

5. From what was the woman made?

6. For what purpose was the woman made?

7. What was the Serpents strategy when tempting Adam and Eve? How do you see him using similar strategies today?

8. What were the immediate effects of their rebellion?

9. What would you say is the difference between punishment and discipline? Are the curses punishment or discipline?

10.

What was Eves mistake?

11. What is the curse for woman?

12. How is her curse related to questions 4,5,6

13. What was Adams mistake?

14. What is the curse for man?

15. How is his curse related to questions 1,2,3

The reign of the curse is defeated at the cross. In Jesus, we now have the ability to not live under the tyranny of the curse as men and women of God!
16. Cross reference Ephesians 5:22-33. In what ways do you observe the reversal of the curse demonstrated in the lives of men and women in this passage?

17. What ideas discussed in this study can you most identify with in your own life?

Chapter 2
Psalm 23
1. The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3. he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Read through psalm 23, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.

1. What words come to mind when you think of the role of a Shepherd?

2. Look at Isaiah 40:11, John 10:1-18. Are there any new things you learned about God as a Shepherd?

Sheep are notorious for not being the brightest animals around. In fact, they cannot be driven, but must be led because of their inability to lead themselves in the right direction. When a sheep would consistently wander off from the shepherd and place itself in danger, it was common for the shepherd to break the sheep's legs and carry it around until it healed.

3. What are some ways that you would like to allow God to shepherd you at college this year? (ie. friendships, dating, ministry, academics, finances etc.)

4.

What are areas that you find yourself being in want or discontent?

5. Verse 3 says that God restores our soul. What areas do you feel broken and in need of God restoring you?

6. Verse 3 also says that He guides me in paths of righteousness for His names sake. Cross reference Matthew 5:6 and Hebrews 1:9. What do you learn about righteousness? Why is Gods name at stake in us walking in paths of righteousness?

7. What things do you learn in this chapter about the character of God that would keep you from fearing evil when you walk through the Valley of the Shadow of death? (if theres time, look at Psalm 27:1 as well)

If theres time, rewrite the chapter as though it were God writing to you.

Chapter 3
Psalm 139:1-12
a Psalm of David A great verse to pray whenever you prepare to spend time in the Bible is Jeremiah 33:3 Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. Spend a few minutes asking God to do just that as you meet with Him during this Bible Study preparation. We will spend two weeks on this Psalm. This week we will delve into verses 1-12
1. O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. 5. You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8. If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10. even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12. even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

Read through psalm 139:1-12, jotting down observations and questions that strike you as you read in the space below.

This psalm consists of three parts:

I. A celebration of the Omniscience and Omnipresence of God, as a ground of confidence and hope, Ps. 139:1-18.
(a) The fact that He knows all that there is in the heart, 139:1-6. (b) The fact that He is everywhere present, 139:7-12. (c) The fact that all in our past life has been known to God; that He has created us, and that His eye has been upon us from the beginning of our existence, 139:13-16. (d) The fact that His thoughts toward us are precious, and numberless as the sand, 139:17-18.

II. The feelings of the psalmist in relation to the acts of the wicked as a proof that he loved God, 139:19-22. These reflections seem to have sprung from his contemplation of the
divine character and perfections, as leading him to hate all that was opposed to a Being so pure, so benevolent, so holy. On looking into his own heart, in view of what God was, he was conscious that he had no sympathy with the enemies of God as such; that such was his love for the character of God, and such his confidence in him, that he could have nothing in common with them in their feelings toward God, but wished to be dissociated from them forever.

III. The expression of a desire that, as God saw all the recesses of the human soul, he would search his heart, and would detect any evil he might see there, and deliver him from the evil, and lead him in the way which conducted to life eternal, 139:23-24.
Consider the following definitions (taken from The New International Dictionary of the Bible) Omniscience- The attribute by which God perfectly and eternally knows all things that can be knownpast, present, and future. God knows how best to attain to His desired ends. Gods omniscience is clearly taught in Scripture (i.e. Ps 147:5; Prov 15:11; Isa 46:10)

Omnipresence- The attribute of God by virtue of which He fills the universe in all its parts and is present
everywhere at once. Not a part, but the whole of God is present in every place. The Bible teaches the omnipresence of God (i.e. Ps 139:7-12; Jer 23:23,24; Acts 17:27,28).

Omnipotence- The attribute of God that describes His ability to do whatever He wil ls. Gods will is limited
by His nature, and He therefore cannot do anything contrary to His nature as God, such as to ignore sin, to sin, or to do something absurd or self-contradictory. God is not controlled by His power, but has complete control over it: otherwise He would not be a free being. To a certain extent, He has voluntarily limited Himself by the free will of His rational creatures. Although the word omnipotence is not found in the Bible, the Scriptures clearly teach the omnipotence of God (i.e. Job 42:2; Jer. 32:17; Matt 19:26; Luke 1:37; Rev 19:6)

1. As you consider verses 1-4, what thoughts or emotions do you have regarding your relationship with God? Isnt it amazing that He knows you so deeply (the good, bad and the ugly) and yet still chooses to love you?!

2. How do you see His omniscience demonstrated in verses 1-4?

There are times in our lives that we wish that God was not omniscient. (We wish that He wouldnt know of and see all that we do!) At what times are you likely to live as though God were not omniscient?

Grasping Gods omniscience brings great comfort, humility and dependence. Spend some time asking God to help you grasp the significance of His omniscience this week.
139:5 You have beset me behind and before - The word rendered beset - - means properly to press; to press upon; to compress. It has reference commonly to the siege of a city, or to the pressing on of troops in war; and then it comes to mean to besiege, hem in, closely surround, so that there is no way of escape. This is the idea here - that God was on every side of him; that he could not escape in any direction. He was like a garrison besieged in a city so that there was no means of escape. There is a transition here (not an unnatural one), from the idea of the Omniscience of God to that of His Omnipresence. And laid Your hand upon me - That is, If I try to escape in any direction I find Your hand laid upon me there. Escape is impossible.

3. When have you found this truth that you cannot escape God to be a comfort to you? When has it been a frustration to you?

139:6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me - literally, Wonderful knowledge away from me, or, more than I can comprehend. It is beyond my reach; it surpasses all my po wers to comprehend it. 139:8 If I ascend up into heaven - The word heaven here, in the original is in the plural number - heavens, - and includes all that there is above the earth - the highest worlds. In hell - Hebrew, Sheol. The word here refers to the under-world - the abodes of the dead; and, in the apprehension of the psalmist, corresponds in depth with the word heaven in height. The two represent all worlds, above and below; and the idea is, that in neither direction, above or below, could he go where God would not be.

4. How is Gods omnipresence demonstrated in verses 7-12?

5. Compare Psalm 139:7-12 to Romans 8:38, 39. What similarities do you see?

Spend time considering the words of the hymn O The Deep, Deep Love of Jesus O the deep, deep love of Jesus, Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free! Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me. Underneath me, all around me, is the current of Thy love; Leading onward, leading homeward to my glorious rest above. O the deep, deep love of Jesus, spread His praise from shore to shore! How He loveth, ever loveth, changeth never, never more; How He watches over His loved ones, Died to call them all His own; How for them He intercedeth, Watches over them from the throne. O the deep, deep love of Jesus, Love of every love the best; Tis an ocean vast of blessing, Tis a haven sweet of rest. O the deep, deep love of Jesus, Tis a Heaven of Heavens to me; And it lifts me up to glory, for it lifts me up to Thee. Amen

6. What new truths have you learned about God or yourself from this study?

7. Choose and memorize a verse out of Psalm 139:1-12.

Chapter 4
Psalm 139:13-24
Another great verse to pray as you prepare to study is Psalm 119:18 Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law. Spend a few minutes asking God to open your eyes and to show you wonderful things in His Word during this Bible study preparation time.
13. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16. your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. 17. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! 18. Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. 19. If only you would slay the wicked, O God! Away from me, you bloodthirsty men! 20. They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. 21. Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD, and abhor those who rise up against you? 22. I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies. 23. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Read through Psalm 139:13-24, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.

1. How does God as our creator imply His ownership of us?

2. What is one of your least favorite things about yourself? (either a physical or character attribute) Do you see yourself as wonderfully made? Why or why not?

How we act comes from what we believe about who we are. Spend some time reflecting on the idea in this verse, that God has wonderfully made you.

3. Do you see Gods thoughts as precious to you?

How could you grow in appreciating Gods thoughts? (Look at Proverbs 1:23 and Psalm 25:14)

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts -Isaiah 55:8,9

4. Look at Matthew 9:4 and 12:25. Is Jesus omniscient?

5. Re-read verses 19-22. Is it right for us to hate people? Consider Exodus 23:4-5; Leviticus 19:17-18; Proverbs 25:21; Romans 12:20 How do you reconcile verses 19-22 with these verses?

139:23 The idea is, Search me thoroughly; examine not merely my outward conduct, but what I think about; what are my purposes; what passes through my mind; what occupies my imagination and my memory; what secures my affections and controls my will. He must be a very sincere man who prays that God will search his thoughts, for there are few who would be willing that their fellow-men, even their best friends, should know all that they are thinking about.

139:24 According to this, the prayer is that God would search him and see if there was anything in him that partook of the nature of idolatry, or of defection from the true religion; any tendency to go back from God, to worship other gods, to leave the worship of the true God

6. David starts and ends this Psalm talking about God searching his heart. Praying verses 23, 24 is a very wise habit for us to form. Notice that as David begins the Psalm reflecting on God knowing his heart, that he does not move into self deprecation, but rather the goodness of God. How could grasping the truths of the Gospel protect us from this?

What new truths have you learned about God or yourself from this study?

Choose a verse out of Psalm 139:13-24 that you would like to memorize.

Chapter 5
Isaiah 53
Bear in mind the words of Jesus as you embark on your Bible Study prep time. You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. John 5:39 Spend time praying that you will come to Him through the Scriptures
52:13. See, my servant will act wisely ; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. 14. Just as there were many who were appalled at him -- his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness-15. so will he sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand. 53: 1. Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 2. He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8. By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken. 9. He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10. Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. 11. After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light [of life] and be satisfied ; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12. Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Read through Isaiah 53, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JESUS LIFE HIS CALL Isaiah 52:13-15 1. Compare verse 52:13 and 52:14. How are they different in describing the servant?

2. What is the significance of the word sprinkle in 52:15? (Leviticus 14:7, Numbers 8:7, Numbers 19:18-19). (Also the servant acts as a priest). What is a priests role? (An upright priest will make sinners righteous by his sacrifices of atonement.) THE DESPISED SERVANT Isaiah 53:1-3 3. What is the message of the prophet in 53:1? (John 1:29) 4. What does 53:2 imply about Jesus birth, youth, and early manhood? What is attractive about one so unattractive?

5. In what ways was Jesus despised and rejected? In His life and now? Please use examples from Scripture. Is it comforting to you that Jesus is so familiar with suffering? (Hebrews 4:16) DESPISED ON OUR BEHALF Isaiah 53:4-6 6. Read verses 4-5 and compare them with 1 Peter 2:22-24. What do these verses tell us about the main point of Jesus ministry?

7. Some people misinterpret why Jesus died. What are some reasons people give for his death?

8. Why did Jesus die? (verse 5) WILLINGLY AND INNOCENTLY SUFFERED Isaiah 53:7-9 9. Verse 53:7 describes what part of Jesus life?

10. Jesus was terribly humiliated through His death on the cross. What are some areas you need humility in? How can you faithfully serve those who dont appreciate your good works?

THE GLORY OF HIS GRIEF Isaiah 53:10-12 11. Who killed Jesus? Whose fault is his death? (verse 10) Why did it please God to crush him??? 12. What are 2 important results of Christs suffering? (verse 11)

13. How did God exalt his Servant? (Philippians 2:6-11)

14. Does God call and use other suffering servants? What is the special joy of the suffering servant? (Philippians 3:10)

Notes on the passage: Isaiah 53:2 The beginning of Christs kingdom will be small and contemptible in the sight of man, but it will grow wonderfully and flourish before God. (Isaiah 11:1) The Roman Empire was probably the cruelest and most decadent nation that has ever existed. Its legions massacred any nation or city that dared to stand in its way. Rebels against the empire were crucified and their followers were enslaved. Over 50 percent of the Roman population consisted of slaves. The worship of sex and pleasure in the prostitution temples of Diana and Venus were the main religions of the day. It was this morally dry nation that would crucify the Creator God of the universe.

Israel was enslaved by this evil Roman Empire. They were not free. Their Judaism was dry and barren and filled with empty rituals. The religious leaders were corrupt puppets of Rome who did not want a Messiah to deliver them from under its iron heel. Into this dryness, the Servant would come. The loveliest flower of humanity came fro the driest spot and period of world history. There is no way that either of these nations could have produced a Jesus. Evolution has always tried to get rid of Christ, but it cannot produce a Jesus. Neither could Rome or Israel, yet Isaiah predicted that the Servant would come during these dry times. Isaiah 53:5 he was chastised for our reconciliation to God cross reference with 1 Corinthians 15:3 and 2 Corinthians 5:11-21. Isaiah 53:5 the Messiah was wounded for our transgressions but whoever will not accept the fact that the Messiah suffered for their iniquities will have to suffer for those transgressions. Isaiah 53:7 The servant willingly and patiently obeyed his fathers appointment (Matthew 26:63, Acts 8:32). He learned obedience through the things he suffered (Hebrews 12:2). Do we learn obedience through the things we suffer? Isaiah 53:9 1 Peter 2:21-25.cross reference Isaiah 53:11 Paul explains justification using Romans 5:18-19. Only a blameless person can justify us. Isaiah 53:12 In Luke 22:36-37 Jesus applies this prophecy to Himself.

Chapter 6
John 4:1-42
Read through John 4, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.
1. The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2. although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3. When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. 4. Now he had to go through Samaria. 5. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6. Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8. (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) 9. The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans. ) 10. Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." 11. "Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12. Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?" 13. Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14. but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." 15. The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." 16. He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back." 17. "I have no husband," she replied. Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true." 19. "Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem." 21. Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." 25. The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." 26. Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he." 27. Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, "What do you want?" or "Why are you talking with her?" 28. Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, 29. "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?" 30. They came out of the town and made their way toward him. 31. Meanwhile his disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat something." 32. But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about." 33. Then his disciples said to each other, "Could someone have brought him food?" 34.

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. 35. Do you not say, `Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. 37. Thus the saying `One sows and another reaps' is true. 38. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their

labor." 39. Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." 40. So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41. And because of his words many more became believers. 42. They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."

1. What do you learn about Jesus from these verses? (Note: It was rare for a rabbi to condescend to talk to a woman, let alone a Samaritan Woman. Jews usually walked around Samaria.)

2. What do you learn about the woman from these verses? Why was she surprised when Jesus asked her for a drink of water?

3. What do you think Jesus meant by living water? See Isaiah 44:3,4 and John 7:37-39

4. How had the woman tried to quench her thirst? What things do you most often go to to quench your thirst?

5. What did the Samaritan woman do when she perceived that the conversation was getting personal?

6. How did Jesus handle her evasive tactic?

7. Who comes to mind that like this woman is unclean or undesirable? How could you lve them this week?

8. What do you think it looks like to worship in spirit and in truth? What would it look like to worship God with an over-emphasis on either Spirit or truth?

9. What decision did the woman face?

10. What happened to the water-pot? Whats significant about this?

11. What is the harvest? (Matthew 9:36-38) Who are the harvesters?

12. What conclusion did the towns people come to about Jesus? What was the basis of their thinking?

13. What new things do you learn about God or yourself from this passage?

Chapter 7
Romans 8
Read through Romans 8, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.
1. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, 4. in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. 5. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; 7. the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. 9. You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10. But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. 12. Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation--but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it. 13. For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, 14. because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17. Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. 18. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21. that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.

22. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25. But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. 26. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. 27. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 31. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32. He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33. Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36. As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." 37. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39. neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1. Why does Paul say in verse 1 that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ? What does condemnation mean?

2. Even though there is no condemnation and no guilt for those in Christ can there still be consequences for sin on earth? What are some examples of this?

3. What does it mean to be in Christ? This seems to be a running theme throughout the chapter. What are some cross references to explain this.(Romans 6:1-10, John 15, ) 4. How does Paul describe a Christians life in the following verses?

Romans 7:4-6 Romans 7:14-25 Romans 8:1-2

5. In Romans 8:1-4, Paul discusses the law and what it is powerless to do in and of itselfwhat is the law powerless to do for us? What is the function of the law? (Romans 3:20, Galatians 3:24)

6. What do you think it means to have their minds set on the flesh or the Spirit? How can you practically set your mind on the Spirit?

7. What does it mean to put to death the misdeeds of the body?

Abba (8:15) An affectionate, intimate Aramaic word for Father, comparable to Papa. Jews did not use this term for God, but Jesus used it (Mark 14:36) and apparently encouraged His disciples to do so. See Luke 11:2; Galatians 4:6. Romans 8:15 spirit of sonship the underlying word is adoption(Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5; Romans 9:4) The Roman practice of adoption was a most serious and complicated process because the child was the absolute possession of his father. The father even had the legal right to kill his child. Adoption was common among Greeks and Romans, who granted the adopted son all the privileges of a natural son including inheritance rights.

8. How does it make you feel when you consider that you are co-heirs with Christ? What will you inherit with Him? Romans 8:17 note: if indeed we share in his sufferings the Greek construction here does not set forth a condition but rather states a fact. The meaning is that there is no doubt that we will share in Christs glory but suffering will inevitably be a part of our lives on earth.

9. Read Romans 8:17-27. List some of the things the Spirit does for the believer

10. Why is sharing in Christs sufferings worth the pain??? (Romans 8:18; Philippians 3:1011; 2 Corinthians 4:17; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7). What do we put our hope in??

11. How does the Holy Spirit help us according to 8:26-27? What is an example of when the Holy Spirit has helped you tremendously when you were powerless? (2 Corinthians 12:9). What can you ask the Spirit for power in?

12. What does verse 28 mean? How has God done this in your life?

13. To what has God predestined us? What is Gods purpose in choosing us (Romans 8:29, Ephesians 1:4-12). God justified us through Jesus He is sanctifying us through His Spirit He will glorify us with Christ on the last day 14. Why will nothing be able to separate us from the love of God? How can believing this affect the way we live our lives? How does it affect you personally? 15. In verse 37 Paul says that in all these things we are more than conquerors and in verse 15 he says that we are no longer slaves again to fear...In light of this what attitude should we have towards believers, non-believers, daunting things ahead of us, etc. 18. What does it mean that Christ intercedes for us? What picture does this paint for you?

19. What specific thing from this chapter will you take away with you this week? How will this directly affect your life?

Chapter 8
Matthew 5:1-12
Read through all of Matthew 5, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.
1. Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2. and he began to teach them, saying: 3. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 10. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11. "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13. "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14. "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. 17. "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19. Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. 21. "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, `Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.'

22. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, `Raca, ' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, `You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

23. "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24. leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. 25. "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26. I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. 27. "You have heard that it was said, `Do not commit adultery.' 28. But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. 31. "It has been said, `Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' 32. But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery. 33. "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, `Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' 34. But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; 35. or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. 36. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. 37. Simply let your `Yes' be `Yes,' and your `No,' `No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. 38. "You have heard that it was said, `Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' 39. But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 43. "You have heard that it was said, `Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44. But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45. that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47. And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48. Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Adapted from the Lifeguide Bible study IVP

The Sermon on the Mount is probably the best known part of the teaching of Jesus. It was delivered toward the beginning of Jesus public ministry. Repent Jesus cried, for the kingdom of God is near (Matt 4:17) Indeed, Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom. The Sermon on the Mount, then, is to be seen in this context. It portrays the repentance (metanoia, the complete change of mind) and the righteousness that belong to the kingdom. That is, it describes what human life and human community look like when they come under the gracious rule of God. Here is a Christian value system, ethical stard, religious devotion, attitude to money,

ambition, lifestyle and network of relationshipsall of which are totally at variance with those of the non-Christian world.

In this section, we will focus specifically on the first 12 verses, commonly referred to as The Beatitudes

1. What types of people do we normally consider blessed or fortunate?

2. Read 5:1-12. How does our normal description of the blessed or fortunate person compare with those whom Jesus considers blessed?

3. To be poor in spirit is to acknowledge our spiritual poverty, our bankruptcy before God. Why is this an indispensable condition for receiving the kingdom of heaven?

Why is it so hard for us to admit our spiritual poverty?

4. Why would those who are poor in spirit feel a need to mourn?

5. Those who mourn feel sorrow not only for their own sin but also for the sin they see around them. What have you heard in the news lately that causes you to mourn?

6. How do you think those who mourn will be comforted?

7. How would a true estimate of ourselves lead us to be meekto have a humble and gentle attitude toward others?

8. From the worlds point of view, why is it surprising that the meek will inherit the earth?

9. What has Jesus said so far that might lead us to hunger and thirst for righteousness?]

10. Jesus promises that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. What can you do to cultivate a healthy, hearty spiritual appetite?

11. How would you define mercy (v. 7)?

12. The pure in heart (v. 8) are not just inwardly pure. Their whole life, public and private is transparent before God and others. Why is it difficult to live this way?

Why would the promise of seeing God (v. 8) be reserved for those who are pure in heart?

13. How is being a peacemaker different from settling for peace at any price?

14. Why would the world hate the king of people described in the beatitudes?

15. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was killed by the Nazis because of his faith, wrote: With every beatitude the gulf is widened between the disciples and the people. How have the beatitudes challenged you to be different?

Chapter 9
Romans 12
Read through all of Romans 12, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.
1. Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. 2. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. 3. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5. so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8. if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. 9. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 20. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." 21. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

adapted from Life Change Series 1. What does Paul mean when he exhorts the Romans (and us) to offer our bodies as living sacrifices? What does this look like practically? (also read Romans 6:13).

2. Definition for transformed: a process, not a single event. In 2 Corinthians 3:18 this word refers to our inner transformation into Christs likeness. (also see Romans 8:29). The butterfly analogy may be used. We are becoming what we already are what is already true of us. This happens by the Holy Spirit and through the truth (Gods word is truth). How has God transformed you since you became a Christian? How is He transforming you now?

3. According to Romans 12:2 what must happen in order for us to discern and agree with Gods will?

4. Name one aspect of the pattern of this world that is currently tempting you to conform to it?

5. How can our minds be renewed? (Look at the following passages: Romans 8:5,9,12-13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 3:14-21, 4:22-24, 5:1; 2 Timothy 3:16; Luke 11:13; Psalm 1:1-3, 119:11) a. What must God do? b. What must we do? 6. According to Romans 12:3-6, what facts should keep us from feeling superior or inferior to other Christians?

Helpful vocabulary words:

gifts: (v.6) Charismata from charis, grace. God gives these gifts by grace through His Spirit to enable Christians to meet needs in the Church. prophesying: (v.6) A communication of the mind of God imparted to a believer by the Holy Spirit. It may be a prediction (Acts 11:28; 21:10-11)an indication of the will of God in a given situation (Acts 13:1-2; 1 Corinthians 14:29-30), or a word given for strengthening, encouragement and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3) serving: (v.7) In a general sense, this word covers all service rendered to God or to people in His name. In a specific sense, it means practical service to the needy (Matthew 25:34-40, Acts 6:1-2, Romans 15:25). encouraging: (v.8) As teaching is meant to tell us what is true and what we should do in light of it, so encouragement (or exhortation) is meant to motivate and enable us to do what we have been taught. showing mercy (v.8) Caring for the sick, the poor and the aged.

7. In 12:6-8, Paul lists examples of gifts that may be found among Christians in any given church. The list is not exhaustive, for it is meant to teach principles about how we should use any gift. What principles can you deduce? What do you think God has given you as a gift? How can you use it for the betterment of the body of Christ as opposed to building yourself up?

8. In Romans 12:9, Paul speaks about our love. According to Romans 5:5 what is the source of our love for fellow Christians and non Christians?

9. In what ways is Christian love more than just an emotion? (see Romans 5:6-8; Romans 13:8-10 and 1 John 3:17-18).

10. Some Christians emphasize loving people more than hating evil. However, why is hating evil (12:9) equally important? How can one hate evil and not hate the evildoer?

11. In 12:12, Paul mentions the renewed minds approach to affliction. How can we be patient in affliction? Whose example are we following? What is our hope? (Hebrews 12:2).

12. In 12:17 Paul exhorts us to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. Why does he write this?

Note: In 12:20, Paul talks about heaping burning coals on your enemys head. Definition of burning coals: Paul is quoting Proverbs 25:21-22. The statement has several possible meanings, all of which imply repentance. Here are two: 1. In an ancient Egyptian ritual of penance, the guilty person carried a basin of burning coals on his head as a sign of repentance. 2. The coal may depict the pain of shame. This pain of a guilty conscience is intended to drive the enemy to repent and become a friend.

13. Reread 12:9-21. Choose one of Pauls instructions that you particularly need to grow in. What does this mean for you and what needs to change in your life? Chapter 10

Chapter 10
Ephesians 1
Read through all of Ephesians 1, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read.
Ephesians 1 1. Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5. he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will-6. to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8. that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9. And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10. to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. 11. In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12. in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14. who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. 15. For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16. I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19. and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20. which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21. far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23. which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.

(The following questions have been adapted from the Lifeguide Bible study series)

We will just spend 1 week on this great chapter, but will break it into two sections to help us grasp the content.

Section 1:1-14
We have a love-hate relationship with Gods will. We dearly want to discover and obey it, to be secure in knowing we are following the path he desires. On the other hand, we definitely dont want to find out what He wants because deep down we suspect it may not be to our liking. In this study well see what Paul says about Gods will. 1. Complete the following statement. I feel Gods will is: (a) a ball and chain around my nect, (b) a goal to reach, (c) reassuring, (d) unknowable, (e) something to rejoice in, (f) something to fear, (g) something to discover and then do. Explain your answer.

2. According to verses 3-6, what blessings are ours from the Father?

What other blessings, according to verses 7-12, do we have in Jesus Christ?

3. From the information given in 1:1-14 alone, try to formulate a clear statement of what it means to be chosen by God

4. In the New Testament, the word mystery is not used of some murky idea we can never understand but of a secret which has now been revealed (see 3:4,5) According to 1:9,10, God has blessed us by revealing the ultimate goal of all history. What is it?

5. What blessings do we receive through the Holy Spirit?

6. What motivated God to undertake this plan of redeeming us and giving us all these blessings (see verses 5 and 9)?

7. What does it mean to live to the praise of His glory (1:6,12,14)?

How can we do this?

Section 2 verses 1:15-23

Sometimes prayer can be like pushing a full wheelbarrow-with no wheel. At other times its like rushing down the rapids of a mountain river. What makes the difference? In this study well see why Pauls prayers overflow with praise and thanksgiving.

8. When you pray for Christians, what do you usually pray for them? Give some specific examples

9. Look back over 1:15-23. In verses 15-16 Paul says, For this reason I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. Why is Paul so thankful in his prayers for the Ephesians?

Why do you suppose these things were so important to him?

10. Why do you think Pauls prayers focus on wisdom, revelation and knowledge?

11. Compare Pauls prayers with those you mentioned in answering question number 8

12. How does 1:20-23 expand on Pauls discussion of Christs headship begun in 1:9-10?

13. How is the Church, the body of believers, so central to Gods plans for the universe?

14. What role does the body of Christ play in your life?

15. What kind of prayer dominates 1:3-14?

16. What kind of prayer dominates 1:15-23?

17. How does intercession naturally flow out of praise?

18. Why do you think this chapter made it into the Big 10?

19. Spend several minutes praising God and then praying for Christs church, or individuals in it, following Pauls example.

Chapter 11
Ephesians 4
Read through all of Ephesians 4, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read. (Questions adapted from Lifeguide Bible Study, IVP)
Ephesians 4
1. As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4. There is one body and one Spirit-- just as you were called to one hope when you were called-5. one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6. one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8. This is why it says: "When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men." 9. (What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions ? 10. He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11. It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12. to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13. until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 14. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. 17. So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. 20. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23. to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24. and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 25. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.

26. "In your anger do not sin" : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27. and do not give the devil a foothold.

28. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. 29. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

The first three chapters for Ephesians provides a doctrinal foundation, while chapters 4-6 show in practical detail how to give glory to God in the Church. Many of the Epistles are split like this with about half of the book spent on doctrine and the second half spent on practical application thereof.

1. To have unity we must all be uniform. Explain why you do or do not agree with this statement.

2. What are the characteristics of a life which is worthy of our calling (vv. 1-3)?

3. Why are these virtues so important for maintaining unity?

4. Which of these qualities are the strongest for you? And the weakest?

5. In verses 8-10 Christ is compared to a conquering hero whose triumphal procession fills the whole universe, from the highest heaven to the lowest earth. He then generously distributes gifts to his loyal followers. What is the nature and purpose of these gifts (vv. 11-13)?

6. How does spiritual infancy differ from spiritual maturity? (vv. 14-16)? What winds and waves are blowing and tossing you most these days?

7. While 4:1-6 sets froth the unity we have as believers, 4:7-11 describes our uniqueness through the individual gifts we have received. How does Pauls explanation of the proper function and goal of these gifts bring us right back to the opening theme of Ephesians 4?

Glance back through verses 17-32 of chapter 4. Its easier said than done is a clich that certainly applies to Christian unity. Remnants of the old self (v. 22) too often get in the way. Somehow we manage to say the wrong thing or act the wrong way. Pauls aim in this section is to equip his readers to actually live in unity.

8. Paul continues to flesh out what it means for his readers to live a life worthy of their calling. How does he contrast the life of the Gentile (unbeliever) with that of a true believer?

9.

Paul says that Gentiles are afflicted with a spiritual condition known as hardness of heart (4:18). Explain the meaning of his diagnosis.

What are the effects of this condition? (vv. 17-19)

10. How have you struggled with hardness of heart?

11. 4:23 tells us to be made new in the attitude of our minds. Practically, how do we do this?

12. How do the instructions in verses 25-32 promote healthy communication and facilitate unity?

13. Which of the commands is verses 25-32 do you have the most difficulty following? Explain.

14. After reading through Ephesians 4, why do you think this chapter made it in to the top 10?

Chapter 12
Revelation 5
1. Before you read through the chapter, spend just a minute or two describing what you imagine it will be like in heaven.

Read through all of Revelation 5, jotting down observations and questions in the space below that strike you as you read. (most of this information is adapted from Ray Stedmans work on Revelation) Revelation 5
1. Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. 2. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" 3. But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. 4. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. 5. Then one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals." 6. Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. 7. He came and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. 8. And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9. And they sang a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth." 11. Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12. In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!" 13. Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!" 14. The four living creatures said, "Amen," and the elders fell down and worshiped.

In Chapter 4 of Revelation, John the Apostle was caught up into the presence of God in heaven. There he saw the throne of God and the court of heaven. Though the scene in Chapter 5 is still in heaven, the theme changes from the worship of the Creator to the worship of the Redeemer. It is both our duty and privilege to worship the Creator because all that we have -- life, talents, all ability -- comes from his creative power. But the greater theme in the Scriptures is redemptive love, and we ought frequently to reflect that as well. This scroll, John says, was written both on the front and the back. The ancients seldom wrote on both sides of a scroll because one side was usually rough and uneven. Normally only one side was smoothed for writing. When both sides of a scroll were written on, it was an indication of a full and important message. This seems to indicate here that what will be unfolded as we go on is a complex and involved account.

The book which appeared in the right hand of God, and was given to Messiah, contained the outline of those events which were after that time to come to pass.

The book seems to contain the story of mans losing his lordship over creation and the regaining of that authority by the Man Christ Jesus. The book might be titled the Book of Redemption since it contains the story of redemption to its final consummation, not only in relation to man but also to the world. Satan had usurped what God originally gave to man in Adam, and Christ the Redeemer reclaimed cursed man and the cursed earth. As the Lamb takes the book out of the hand of God on the throne, this is one of the most climactic acts in all history, for it assures the regaining of all that was lost. At this point all creation bursts into praise for the Lamb who can open the book.
Their song magnifies the worth of the Lamb for four reasons. a. He was slain. b. That death (by thy blood) brought redemption to people from every kindred, tongue, people and nation. c. That redemption also resulted in a position before God as a kingdom and priests d. In the future the redeemed will reign on the earth-a reference to our participation in the millennial kingdom. Charles Ryrie

Now John hears an invitation to all the universe, proclaimed by a mighty angel, that if anyone can open this scroll let him step forward. "Who is worthy," he cries, "to open the scroll?" It is the question that is the basis for all of politics. In every election year it is what we are asking, is it not? "Who is worthy? Who among us is capable of leading us into solutions to the problems that have been here for centuries? Who is smart enough? Who is moral enough? Who is worthy?" Through the centuries there have been many volunteers. Nebuchadnezzar, in the Old Testament, claimed to be able to do so. He boasted of how cleverly he had built the great city of Babylon. But his empire soon fell apart. Alexander the Great thought he had accomplished it, and at the age of 32 wept because he had no more worlds to conquer. But a few months later he drank himself to death and his empire too was gone. Julius Caesar led the legions of Rome across the face of Europe trying to establish a world in which Roman peace would be prevalent. But it, too, fell ultimately to the assault of barbarians from the North. Charlemagne in France tried to do the same thing. So did

Napoleon. Hitler, in our own day, thought he was establishing a thousand-year Reich that would rule the world. Yet all failed and failed dismally.

No wonder John wept! He wept and wept, he says, because no one could unseal the scroll or even look inside. No one knew how to go about it. But then John learns that the problem is already solved. The 24 angels, the heavenly council around the throne of God, know the answer. "The Lion of the tribe of Judah" and "the Root of David" are both Jewish titles. They refer to prophecies from the Old Testament that predict there would be one from the tribe of Judah and from the family of David who would at last rule over the earth and solve its problems. These titles refer, then, to the King of the Jews -- the very title which Pilate inscribed on the Cross of Jesus. The King of the Jews! He is the One who triumphs by his death and is able to bring about God's kingdom on the earth. But -- when John turns to see the conquering Lion of Judah, what he sees is the slain Redeemer of the world! In these two symbols, the Lion of Judah and the Lamb that was slain, John sees the uniting of two themes that run throughout the Bible, Old Testament and New Testament alike. Lions are a symbol of majesty, power, rule and authority. Lions conquer; lambs submit! Lions roar; lambs die!

According to John's vision, this Lamb has seven horns. Horns in Scripture speak of power, and seven is the number of fullness. So the Lamb has fullness of power on the basis of his death. Remember how Hebrews puts it: "He is able to save unto the uttermost all those who come unto God through him," {cf, Heb 7:25a KJV}. Jesus himself declared after his resurrection, "All power in heaven and on earth is given unto me," {cf, Matt 28:18 KJV}. The seven eyes speak of full intelligence, discernment, by means of the Holy Spirit; an understanding of all the conflicting movements of human history. These seven eyes are the seven spirits of God which, as we have already seen, is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. In the first chapter of John's Gospel it is said of Jesus that he "does not need that any should tell him about man, because he knew what was in man," {cf, John 2:25}. He understands humanity. He, therefore, is the One worthy to take the scroll and remove the seals. So John sees him here with the seven-sealed scroll in his hands. This is the worship of heaven. All there understand the meaning of history and the solution that is God's program. Each of these elders has a harp, and bowls of incense, fragrances, which, we are told, are the prayers of the saints. The slain Lamb is the center of their worship. A harp symbolizes the music of inanimate creation. Not only will all creatures of the universe praise God and join in worship before him for his redemptive love, but creation itself -- the rocks, the trees, the mountains, the hills, the sea -- everything on earth, will praise him. Many of the Psalms reflect this in beautiful passages. As the strings of a harp vibrate in harmony, so the whole of creation will vibrate in an harmonious worship of God, each element of it fulfilling the intention which God had for it in the beginning. The elders present also the prayers of the saints. How interesting that heaven understands that we who are redeemed also contribute to the work of redemption. We cannot lay the foundation (that Jesus has done perfectly), but we share in the application of it throughout the earth. Paul, in his letter to Timothy writes, "I exhort therefore that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men" {cf, 1 Tim 2:1} ... "for God would have all men to be saved and come unto the knowledge of the truth," {cf, 1 Tim 2:4}. That is what prayers do. When you are concerned about someone else and pray for him or her before the throne of God you are making possible an application of the work of redemption to that human heart. This ought to encourage us greatly in our prayers, for they are part of the program of God. And, says John, he heard them singing a new song. The 24 elders and the four living creatures around the throne are singing a song they never felt themselves. It is new to them because, as angels, they have never been redeemed. They have had to learn of redemption by watching God's grace applied to sinners -- willful, rebellious, defiant men and women like us, who want their own way and whom, nevertheless, God calls, forgives, restores and saves. This is the song the angels have learned from the saints.

2. Describe the worship that we see occurring in heaven. How does this differ from the way in which we worship now?

3. According to verse 10, for what purpose does God redeem us?

4. Go on and read chapters 6-10 and write down observations and questions that you have in the space below. We will spend time next week discussing your questions and observations.