Occasionally I teach bible study and I post my notes here.
Romans 15:7 · “One Another” Series, Lesson 2 The Command I. Love Comes to the Front Door Let me begin by telling a story. Many years ago, when I was still in college, I attended my first church retreat; it was in the Hill Country of Texas. And… I wore shorts. I didn’t know there … Continue reading Accept One Another
I. Introduction Most organizations want to be recognized. Companies spend millions of dollars to create logos so you can recognize them. Here’s a quick quiz — how many of these company logos can you name? Answers: Row 1: Marriott, Shell, Nike, Popeyes, Pepsi, Atari, Union 76, ToyotaRow 2: Prudential, AT&T, Chevrolet, Adobe, John Deere, McDonald's, … Continue reading Love One Another
I. Introduction Diane is a wonderful gardener. Our backyard is an oasis – flowers grow everywhere. She tends the roses and the hibiscus, which she calls her “biscuits,” and she prunes them faithfully. And sometimes, she’ll cut an especially beautiful flower and put it in a vase in the kitchen. And here’s the thing … Continue reading I AM The True Vine
I. Introduction There’s a specific kind of frustration that comes when you ask someone for directions and they say, “You can’t miss it.” Diane always says that when someone tells you, “You can’t miss it,” you are now guaranteed to miss it. You can always miss it. I have missed things that multiple confident people … Continue reading I AM The Way, the Truth and the Life
I. Introduction — The Moment When “Too Late” Arrives There are different kinds of "too late." Some are annoying. Too late for the early-bird special. Too late to return that purchase without a receipt. Too late to get the good seats. Some are heavier. Too late to apologize. Too late to say goodbye. Too late … Continue reading I AM The Resurrection and the Life
I. Introduction Think about the last time you asked someone for help and they couldn't come. Maybe a repairman said he'd be there Wednesday — he wasn't. Maybe a doctor said "we'll schedule something" and meant three weeks from now. Maybe a friend said "I'll be right there" and you were still waiting an hour … Continue reading The Word Was Enough
Our Shepherd knows His sheep. Do you know Him? Listen for His voice. #Jesus #Shepherd #BibleStudy #Sunday
This morning I was studying John 11, the raising of Lazarus. I knew the story, but I can't say I ever attended a bible study on it, and I've certainly never studied or taught what "I AM The Resurrection and the Life" meant. I say frequently that the only reason I teach is because when … Continue reading When God Teaches Me
I. Introduction Think about all the doors you passed through today. You probably didn't think about a single one of them. You just walked through. That's what doors do when they're working correctly — they're invisible. You don't think about a door until it's locked and you don't have the key, or someone slams it … Continue reading I AM The Door
Introduction - Light Changes Everything Legos are evil. I'm convinced of it. Step on one in the dark and it's an incredibly painful experience. In fact, some theologians believe the thorn in Paul's side — the one he begged the Lord three times to take away — was actually a Lego. If you step on … Continue reading I AM the Light of the World
I. Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The Gospel of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” But for our lesson today, I want to begin a little later in John 1:9–13 because it provides … Continue reading I AM The Bread of Life
I. Introduction Jesus has been making His way toward Jerusalem for His final Passover. Along the way, He has been telling parables and teaching in synagogues. He has been describing the Kingdom of Heaven, sharing difficult wisdom such as “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than … Continue reading Behold! Your King is Coming!
I. Introduction Sometimes when I study, I get a plot, like in the Book of Jonah or Exodus or Acts. I enjoy studying it, the plot, the life lesson, the historical significance, the miracles, and the fishing lessons. But Psalms is usually hard for me. I read today’s scripture and thought, “It’s a … Continue reading Halleluiah! Praise the Lord!
I. Introduction – The Temple In our class last week, Tommy taught us that we should be prepared for the coming of the Lord. Well, He’s here. And here in Luke 2, we get our only inspired snapshot of Jesus between infancy and adulthood. And we’ll see in just a few short verses something … Continue reading The Temple
I. Introduction An old friend once told me a story that every married man understands. His wife tried on a new dress and asked, “Does this dress make me look fat?” He answered with complete honesty. It was true - and it was also unwise. Later he said something I have never forgotten: truth and … Continue reading Finding Wisdom
I. Icebreaker — Stories of Reconciliation Before we turn to Nehemiah, let me connect us to where we’ve been the past couple of weeks. Two weeks ago, Tommy used home renovation shows—things like Property Brothers—to help us think about rebuilding. That fit Nehemiah well, because Nehemiah quite literally asks the king for permission to rebuild … Continue reading Confession, Reconciliation, Celebration
I. Introduction We all arrived safely at the office today. Raise your hand if you’re not here. We don’t always stop to think about it, but even something as ordinary as getting to work safely is evidence of God’s care. Scripture reminds us that our steps are ordered by the Lord, and His protection … Continue reading God Protects Us
I. Introduction Israel had long been warned that disobedience would lead to captivity. Jerusalem fell, many were exiled, and empires changed hands. Daniel not only foretold the rise of Persia—he also lived through the transfer of power as God’s people remained in exile. Esther takes place in the Persian Empire after Babylon fell, when many … Continue reading Esther: Queen of the Darkest Night
I. Jeremiah the Prophet It’s a new year—time to change the page on the calendar… unless, like me, you use a digital calendar. Then you don’t change the page; you press a button. Either way, it feels like a fresh start. But Scripture reminds us that “new” isn’t mainly about the calendar. The Bible’s … Continue reading God’s Plan: A New Year, A New You
I. Introduction: How Did the Magi Know? Back in 2015, I traveled a lot more than I do today, and in December 2015, I found myself in the grand metropolis of Otley, UK. Now in the UK, I don’t know if they know what a warm sunny day is, but that weekend, the rain had … Continue reading The Gifts of the Magi, the Gift of Our Savior
I. Introduction The air is filled with the warm aromas of a hearty feast, families gather around tables laden with dishes like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole. Expressions of gratitude echo through the air during this festive season, as traditions like cranberry sauce and dressing bring family and friends together. Beyond … Continue reading Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving
I. Introduction Psalm 139 Today I want to take a moment to reflect not on headlines or controversies, but on the foundational truth that every life is known and loved by God. In Psalm 139, David meditates not on theological jargon, but on the overwhelming reality of God's personal involvement with His creation. Psalm … Continue reading God Knows Us Intimately
The content reflects on Psalm 128, emphasizing that true success is found in reverence for the Lord, rather than societal measures like wealth or titles. It illustrates how blessings extend from individual faith to family and community, advocating for a life focused on God's guidance. Happiness arises through obedience and faithful living.
The content discusses the profound nature of forgiveness as exemplified in Psalm 32, highlighting the contrast between God’s unconditional forgiveness and human reluctance to forgive. It shares tragic stories, notably the Amish community's response to a shooting, emphasizing how true forgiveness is a choice that leads to healing and joy.
I. Introduction Psalm 62 is not written from a place of comfort, but from the middle of one of the most turbulent seasons in David’s life. The historical setting is Absalom’s rebellion, recorded in 2 Samuel 15–18. By this point, David is no longer the young shepherd-king who defeated Goliath or the newly enthroned … Continue reading Security in God
I. In the Beginning In the Beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw the light was good. God separated the light from the darkness, and there was evening, and there was morning, and there was the first day. And … Continue reading Our Creator
I. Introduction – Why do We Pray? Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known and beloved passage in the entire Bible. Its words have brought comfort and hope to countless believers through generations, providing peace in times of distress and assurance amid uncertainty. This week, well-known Christian leader and author Charlie Kirk was assassinated. … Continue reading The Lord is My Shepherd
I. Introduction Over the past few months, we've been studying the Psalms—God-breathed poetry that reveals deep emotional honesty, divine justice, and prophetic truth. For four weeks, we stepped aside to focus on apologetics and Islam, examining how the Christian faith compares to and differs from other worldviews. Now, returning to the Psalms, we focus … Continue reading The King’s Prophecy
I. Introduction "God is Dead." -Nietzsche, 1882. "Nietzsche is Dead." -God, eternal. We're working through various Psalms for a few weeks, and this week we'll explore how God reveals Himself to us. In other words, How do I know God exists, and how does that affect me? Does God Exist? In 2009, journalist John … Continue reading Does God Exist?
Enduring Trials for the Glory of Christ How Suffering Purifies, Strengthens, and Prepares Us for Eternal Glory I. Introduction In 1 Peter 4:12–19, Peter speaks tenderly but urgently to Christians facing trials. Last week in 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter had called believers to stay focused on prayer, love, hospitality, and service. Now, he turns directly … Continue reading Enduring Trials
In 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter emphasizes living purposefully as believers, urging spiritual alertness, deep love, and faithful service in light of Christ's imminent return. He encourages prayerful living, selfless love, and the responsible use of spiritual gifts to glorify God, highlighting the importance of community and unity amidst challenges.
Let us live for God, because God died for us.
In 1 Peter 2:18-25, Peter instructs believers to submit to their masters, emphasizing respectful conduct even in harsh situations. He advocates for enduring unjust suffering as a commendable act of faith, mirroring Christ’s example. Ultimately, such trials lead to spiritual strength and divine recognition, reaffirming God's purpose in believers' lives.
Christians are temporary residents in this world, called to live righteously and submit to authorities as a reflection of their faith. It encourages believers to appreciate life’s beauty while remembering their eternal destination, acting as ambassadors of Christ through loving behavior, and adhering to God’s will above all.
We explore Peter's teaching in 1 Peter 1:22-25 about the significance of obedience, purification, and sincere love among believers. It highlights that true love, stemming from a transformed heart, is rooted in the eternal Word of God, contrasting the fleeting nature of human life with the permanence of God's promises and the transformative power of the gospel.
1 Peter 1:13-16 emphasizes the call to holiness for believers, highlighting the importance of mental preparedness, sobriety, and hope in Christ’s grace. Peter encourages followers to shed past ignorance, embrace moral purity, and embody God's holiness in all aspects of life, ensuring that their conduct reflects their identity as God's children.
The letters of 1st and 2nd Peter offer encouragement to believers enduring persecution, emphasizing their identity as God's elect and exiles. Addressing societal pressures, Peter highlights themes of divine election, sanctification, and hope through Christ. Believers are reminded of their eternal inheritance and the protective power of God in navigating life's challenges.
I. Introduction Bill had the honor last week of telling wives to submit to their husbands. I think Bill made it clear that whatever misogynistic and sarcastic comment I was probably going to make isn’t supported by scripture. So last week, after emphasizing mutual submission in the latter half of Ephesians 5 and addressing husbands … Continue reading Christlike Submission
Ephesians 5:1-21 emphasizes living in reflection of God’s character through love, light, and wisdom. Paul encourages believers to embody Christ-like love, reject immoral behaviors, and make intentional, Spirit-led choices. This transformation fosters community unity and a distinctive witness in a morally ambiguous culture, underscoring the significance of intentional Christian living.
In Ephesians 4:1-16, Paul emphasizes believers' unity and spiritual maturity. He calls for humility, gentleness, patience, and love to maintain this unity, which is the Holy Spirit's work. Each believer has unique gifts for church edification, aiming for Christlikeness and stability in truth, fostering a healthy church community.
Introduction: God’s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles In Ephesians 3:1-13, Paul reflects on his role in revealing the "mystery" that had been hidden for ages—that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Israel in God’s redemptive plan. God’s eternal purpose, beginning with Adam and continuing through Abraham and Israel, culminates in Christ. From the very beginning, God’s … Continue reading God’s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles
In Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul emphasizes the transformative journey of believers, highlighting humanity's past spiritual death and need for salvation. God's rich mercy and grace lead to renewed life through faith in Christ, free from boasting. Believers are created for good works as evidence of their faith and God's purposeful design.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians unveils spiritual wisdom and blessings in Christ. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and the believers' identity as saints, apart from worldly achievements. Paul discusses grace, predestination, redemption, and the Holy Spirit's seal, contrasting with secular views. This comprehensive understanding directs believers towards eternal and spiritual realities.
Under pressure, Christians often struggle to openly demonstrate their faith. The denial of Jesus by Peter, driven by fear and pride, exemplifies this. However, Peter's restoration by Jesus reflects God's forgiveness and the transformative power of grace. This serves as a reminder of our need for humility and dependence on God in our journey of faith.
This week's passage in Matthew 26:26-56 showcases significant events in Jesus' life. It includes the institution of the Lord's Supper, Peter's denial prediction, Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, and His subsequent arrest. These events emphasize fulfillment of prophecy, Jesus' obedience to God's will, and the symbolism of the Lord's Supper elements.
I. Introduction Over the next three weeks, we will study Matthew 26, focusing on the last hours of Jesus, His arrest, and the trial events. Today, we begin with Matthew 26:1-25. This passage covers the events leading up to Jesus' arrest, marking the beginning of the Passion narrative. It includes Jesus predicting His crucifixion, the … Continue reading The Last Hours, Part 1
This content delves into Matthew 24, exploring Jesus' teachings on the signs of the end times and the necessity of vigilance and readiness. It discusses the Parable of the Fig Tree, the Unknown Day and Hour, and the Parable of the Faithful Servant, underscoring the importance of preparedness and ethical conduct in light of Christ's eventual return.
The Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 explores the signs preceding Christ's return and stresses the importance of understanding biblical prophecy. It begins with Jesus predicting the temple's destruction, symbolizing the end of an era. The passage discusses signs like deceptions, wars, famines, and earthquakes as indications of the approaching end times, emphasizing the need for endurance. It also highlights the significance of the "abomination of desolation" and the great tribulation, culminating in cosmic disturbances heralding the Second Coming.
Allow the God of Creation cleanse the temple that lives inside you.
The passage from Matthew 19:16-26 delves into the interaction between Jesus and the rich young ruler, offering insights into wealth, discipleship, and reliance on the Lord. It explores the challenges of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material abundance, emphasizing the role of divine grace in achieving true discipleship and entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven.
In Matthew 19:13-15, Jesus blesses children despite disciples' rebuke, highlighting their importance in the kingdom of heaven. This contrasts with the metaphor of childlike humility in Matthew 18.
Is it lawful to get a divorce? Jesus teaches us that's not even the right question. #Marriage #Matrimony #Wedding #BibleStudy #bliss
Introduction: Contextual Background So we’re going to cover Matthew 18, several parables together, so it’s going to feel like we’re moving quickly. But there’s a theme, a purpose to Matthew’s writings, so it’s important to understand before the study how this chapter fits within the larger story of Jesus' ministry. Matthew's Gospel is organized in … Continue reading From Humility to Forgiveness
How did the magi know to go look for the Savior? More importantly,, how do *you* know to go looking for the Savior? Christmas has already brought us the greatest gift.
I. Introduction The air is filled with the warm aromas of a hearty feast, families gather around tables laden with dishes like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole. Expressions of gratitude echo through the air during this festive season, as traditions like cranberry sauce and dressing bring family and friends together. Beyond … Continue reading Thanksgiving
When Jesus healed the leper, we can learn about ourselves and Him.
Sometimes in this crazy world we wonder where God has been. God has been, is, and always will be in control.
The culture around us doesn't wish to hear the Word of God, but it is eternal. His Word will endure, and His protection surrounds us while we live in His Word.
Our eternal home awaits us someday. How do we live in the meantime? God has plans for us, to give us peace and hope and a future.
Why do good things happen to bad people? Perhaps the answer lies within your own heart. And perhaps, God's plans are different than yours.
I. Jeremiah the Prophet We’re starting a new book today, a study of the major prophet Jeremiah. We’re going to find over the course of the next several months much about the character of Jeremiah, and more importantly, the character of God. The book itself is long. By word count, it’s the longest book in … Continue reading God’s Plan for You
The price Jesus paid for us, sinners in a broken world, was immense. It is available to all today. Accept the forgiveness so freely given. You don't have to do anything else to be a Christian. Tetelstai, It Is Finished. #Jesus #biblestudy #love
Jesus prays to the Father - for Himself, for His disciples, for future believes. He prays for you, too. Will you answer? #Jesus #hope #believe #pray #biblestudy
I. Introduction Jesus made 7 “I am” statement in the book of John. Do you remember what they were? I AM the Bread of Life I AM the Light of the World I AM the Door I AM the Good Shepherd I AM the Resurrection and the Life I AM the Way and the … Continue reading I Am the True Vine
I. Introduction Even though we’re still in the book of John, something is different. Jesus has demonstrated seven major miracles, each one demonstrating Jesus is the true Messiah. But He has completed His miracles, and now he will elaborate on His death and what it means for gentiles. But before we go there, I … Continue reading His Hour Has Come
I. Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The book of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with verse 1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” But I want to skip to verses 9-13 because it gives a nice introduction to our lesson today. … Continue reading Bread of Life
The source of all forgiveness and hope is found in the living water offered to all through our Lord Christ Jesus. #biblestudy #LivingWater #Hope #Jesus
Today is our conclusion of our study of minor prophets. First Amos, then Jonah and Hosea, and now Micah. That is four by my count, but there are a total of 12 minor prophets. No doubt we will return to Joel, Obadiah, Habakkuk and the others, but next week we open the New Testament book … Continue reading Where Do We Find Hope?
God wants us to be faithful, but we have our own ideas. We invite God's discipline, and He offers forgiveness and mercy.
I. Introduction We’ve been working through the minor prophets, and so far, our common theme is that judgement is coming. Judgement not just for the world, for the world and everything in it belongs to the Lord, but also for the Jewish people. And while those of us that have placed our trust in Christ … Continue reading The Unfaithful Bride
Judgement is coming. We have been warned. #biblestudy #amos #Sunday
I. Introduction And now for something completely different. We have been in 1st and 2nd Kings, and now we’re not. We’re in the book of Amos today, one of twelve minor prophets in Israel. What always strikes me when we read history of the Israel people is all the stupid things they did. Despite the … Continue reading The Lion Roars
God always heals. But how? Why? And when? Trust in the Lord's perfect timing.
A life of consistent faith is pleasing to the Lord. #biblestudy #Israel #Judah
Why do we pray? Does God hear our prayers? What is the purpose of prayer? Please, Lord, hear our prayers. #biblestudy #Sunday #Prayers #praying
How to live with your family and your church in a way that glorifies God. #biblestudy #Sunday #living #worship #leadership
Our grief when a loved one passes is real. But for those who place their hope in Jesus Christ, eternal life awaits. #hope #rapture #biblestudy #Jesus #sleep
This world offers #stress, #anxiety, #panic. What's the solution? The #WordofGod, the #Bible, #LivingtheGospel.
Does God hear our prayers? Studying Daniel's faithful prayer can provide assurance that God hears and answers. #biblestudy #Sunday #prayer
Our Lord God deserves our worship. But what happens when we worship ourselves? #biblestudy #Sunday #Daniel #humility
God has blessed you more than you know. Do you acknowledge Him? Or do you take credit for what He made? #biblestudy #spiritualadultery #ezekiel
Will God hear you? God judges those who reject Him.
Submit or Die. A Study of Colossians 3.
Joy is not found in your circumstances. Joy is available despite circumstances. #biblestudy #joy #Philippians #circumstances
I. Introduction – Joy Through Humility Thanks for letting me teach today and share what the Lord has taught me. Our lesson today is on humility, a subject I’m well versed in. I’ve studied and practiced humility for years, and have become exceptionally proficient in humility. I took an online course called “How Humility Will … Continue reading Joy Through Humility
I. Introduction Ecclesiastes is a unique book. Most think it was written by Solomon near the end of his life, and it’s a book of perspectives and of insights about the purpose of life. It’s a book of depression as Solomon tries to find pleasure in this world, only to find that eternal pleasure … Continue reading When Words Matter
I. Introduction We’ve been in the book of Job; we’ve studied Job’s loss, his suffering, then speech after speech from Job’s friends. Today we’re going to study Elihu, or as I first asked when I started studying for this lesson – Eli Who? I know everybody has been faithfully reading your scripture in preparation … Continue reading Elihu Speaks
I. Introduction A guy named Pete gets a job as a switchman with the railroad, and undergoes weeks of training. The supervisor then takes him into the switch booth to test his readiness. The following exchange takes place: Supervisor: "Imagine you were sitting here alone and you learned there was a train coming from … Continue reading Faith Tested
I. Introduction – What Do We Do Under Pressure? It is easy to be a Christian at church. We are in our safe place. We have no triggers. We are surrounded by brothers and sisters who encourage us. So, it is easy to stand here in our safe environment and say, “I am a follower … Continue reading Denying Christ
I. Introduction From time to time, we all come to a big decision in our lives. I've lost my job; what should I do now? I have a medical issue; how should I treat it? Is this person right for me? Should I compromise, or should I stand my ground? We are faced with … Continue reading Willing
I. Introduction In our bible study lessons, we are getting closer to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Oddly, just in time for Easter. What are the odds? Jesus has been making His way toward Jerusalem for His final Passover. Along the way, He has been telling parables and teaching in synagogues. He has been … Continue reading Triumphal Entry
I. Introduction Sometimes it's difficult to teach a familiar parable; we have pre-conceived notions, or perhaps previous bible studies left in our heads. The Prodigal Son, the Lost Sheep, the Faithful Servant, the Ten Virgins, and so on. Even non-Christians have heard the phrase "good Samaritan." Let’s see if we can look at this parable … Continue reading Neighbors
I. Introduction We’re in Luke 6 today, and yet again the Pharisees are trying to trip Jesus up, and yet again Jesus sets them straight. We’re going to read about 2 Sabbath days that the Pharisees because angry because Jesus was doing good. But first I want to talk about who we are, or rather, … Continue reading Lord of the Sabbath
I. Introduction I think sometimes we just coast through our own lives without thinking much about it. I got up, I went there, I came back, I ate this, I went back to sleep. But along the way, we constantly make choices. What to wear, what to eat. Who to vote for, who not to … Continue reading Rejected
I. Introduction Well. I’m glad that’s over. I want to put 2020 in the history books. Then I want to take the history book and buy it. Then I want to plant a tree on top of it, just so I can burn it down. Then I want to salt the ground so it never … Continue reading Matured
I. Introduction Interesting lesson for me to study this week. This month, we’re in the book of Acts, and we’re up to Acts 3 & 4. I’m sure I’ve mentioned this before, but the church usually assigns a range of scripture and a suggested title for the lesson. This week's lesson from Acts 3 … Continue reading Acts 3-4, The Power to Stand
I. Introduction We’ve been going through the 7 “I am” discourses of Jesus. I AM the Bread of LifeI AM the Light of the WorldI AM the DoorI AM the Good ShepherdI AM the Resurrection and the LifeI AM the Way and the Truth and the LifeI AM the True Vine We’ve already covered the … Continue reading I AM The True Vine
I. Introduction Sheep aren’t the smartest animals. Have you ever seen a sheep act at a circus? Now, they aren’t completely dumb. I read about one study that shows they can recognize faces and voices. They have excellent hearing but very poor eyesight, so they tend to mindlessly follow wherever the sheep in front … Continue reading I AM the Good Shepherd
Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The book of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with in verse 1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” But I want to skip to verses 9-13 because it gives a nice introduction to our lesson today. The … Continue reading I AM the Bread of Life
Introduction Ecclesiastes is a unique book. Most think it was written by Solomon near the end of his life, and it’s a book of perspectives and of insights about the purpose of life. It’s a book of depression as Solomon tries to find pleasure in this world, only to find that eternal pleasure in … Continue reading The Purpose of Community
Chasing the Wind 
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